Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama. I do however own every OC in this story unless I state otherwise. I do not own the character of Lightning either (nor would I want to).
Note: Boy, I am TIRED. I've been working on this chapter for hours trying to get it nice and ready for you guys. It wasn't easy, but if you guys like it then it's all worth it. I'd talk more, but I'm really tired right now. In this chapter we say goodbye to another camper, and also a big twist is revealed which I won't spoil here. Enjoy!
Obsta-KILL course
The challenge was still on and the pain level was rising fast. Lighting was running into every single cactus that had been set up, Quadesh was wailing about how sore her bottom was due to all the cacti spikes poking in it, Larry was trying to ignore the pain in his spike covered hand and Principle Miller was struggling to not scream like a baby. Through all the stumbling and injury, Penta had managed to make it through the cactus maze thanks to her dad's precise instructions.
"Ok Penta continue straight ahead, you have a clear path." Instructed Mr. Polestar.
"Got it dad." Saluted Penta as she briskly marched forwards into a large circular area.
As soon as Penta stepped through the 'doorway' (which was more of an open passage with the indents of a door) the circular area began to rotate at a fair speed. This caused Penta to lose her balance and fall over.
"Oof! What was that?" Exclaimed Penta. "Whooaaa! The floor is moving!"
"Presenting the second obstacle, the Spinning Floor of Doom!" Announced Chris. "Try not to end up going backwards, or losing your way in general. Haha! Good luck figuring out which way is forwards!"
Penta got back to her feet and tried to stay steady.
"Dad! Which way should I go?" Asked Penta.
"Turn ninety degrees and walk forwards; I'll let you know if you're coming close to the wall." Assured Mr. Polestar.
At that moment Xadrian ran into the room with his pappy following on the balcony above the obstacle course. Xadrian almost fell over but managed to keep his balance.
"What's goin' on pappy?" Called Xadrian.
"Tha fl'r is movin' like a wheel. Ya'll gotta take c'r ta stay standin'." Cautioned Mr. Earl. "Ah'll let ya'll kn'w if ya'll are goin' tha right way or n't. Move f'rwards."
"Will do." Nodded Xadrian as he slowly started to move forwards while carefully trying to keep his balance.
While Xadrian and Penta tried to find their way around (with the blindfolds making this a rather difficult task) Donald and Koral entered the room, the latter hobbling due to the large amount of thrown stuck in his arms.
"Big bro, I thought you were good at giving directions!" Complained Donald.
"Yeah, but not to people who are blindfolded and on an obstacle course." Said Matthias defensively. "Now, the next room has a rotating circular floor so make sure to take things slowly. Just as slow as mother and father want you to take your relationship with Yoko."
"Not cool Matthias!" Pouted Donald as he stepped onto the circular platform and promptly lost his balance and fell over. "Oof!"
"Koral, I have an idea." Called Kelly. "Turn around and walk backwards onto the spinning platform. Stay balanced and get ready to run when I tell you to."
Koral did as she was asked and put pull focus into staying on her feet. The floor continued moving around and bought her closer to the entrance to the next part of the obstacle course.
"Ok, run!" Ordered Kelly.
Koral sprinted forwards and managed to make it off the spinning floor and into a new hallway.
"Ok Koral, the checkpoint is right ahead of you; run for it!" Exclaimed Kelly.
Koral did as she was instructed; she sprinted forwards and ran over a black and white checkered line that had been set up. As she did this the one-up sound effect from the Mario games sounded out.
"Koral has made it to the checkpoint!" Announced Chris. "Kelly and Koral move on to the next leg of the obstacle course; seven spots remain, so keep moving!"
"Great job with the directions little sis." Complimented Koral.
"Not a problem; with immunity on the line it's time to get dangerous." Said Kelly modestly.
(Confessional: Kelly isn't great physically … but Koral is.)
Kelly: If I was a runner I'd have no chance … good thing I have an athletic sister huh? Immunity will make things so much less stressful for me, and I'm not altogether certain I'll be safe if I'm not immune.
Donald: I can just tell this challenge is not gonna be fun…
(Cacti Hall)
While Penta, Xadrian and Donald continued to struggle in the Spinner Room, the rest of the runners were still having some trouble in the Cacti Hall. Lighting was having a very painful amount of trouble due to Sampson deciding to sleep instead of guiding him, but he was not going to give up.
"Lightning may be in more pain than the time he had a sha-mouse trap on his sha-willy, but Lightning never gives up!" Declared Lightning as he charged forwards … right into another cactus. "AAARGH! My beautiful chest!"
Charles overheard Lightning's screaming (how could he not?) and shook his head.
"Is that really what I once wanted to be?" Asked Charles out loud. "Ok Ted, where do I go next?"
"Take ten steps to the left and then go straight forwards; you'll have a clear path to the next room." Ordered Ted.
"I'll try." Said Charles as he followed Ted's instructions and got past the cacti. "Did I make it?"
"You did; keep going man!" Grinned Ted.
"Got it." Nodded Charles as he started to slowly feel his way forwards.
Quadesh and Principle Miller were both at the back of the pack and both were having problems. Quadesh was in pain due to the spikes sticking into her butt while Otis was taking this as a chance to troll his principle.
"Come on Quadesh, you can do it." Encouraged Mr. Rustflower.
"I can't do it, I might get spiked again!" Exclaimed Quadesh. "My bottom really hurts!"
"Come on my little winner, I have faith in you. I promise I won't let you get hurt. We'll take it slow and steady." Said Mr. Rustflower in a gentle tone of voice.
"… Ok daddy." Relented Quadesh.
Meanwhile Principle Miller was shuddering in pain and desperately trying to avoid the cacti.
"Otis, stop fooling around! Tell me where I need to go!" Demanded Principle Miller.
"Ok, fine. You need to go two steps to the left." Stated Otis.
Principle Miller did as he was instructed and ended up getting spiked in the hip by a cactus.
"OW! I told you to tell me where to go!" Yelled Principle Miller.
"I know, and I decided you needed to go two steps to the left since a cactus was there." Smirked Otis. "You need to be more specific."
"Do you even care about winning immunity?" Asked Principle Miller.
"Do you care about students after they graduate?" Replied Otis.
"What does that have to do with this?" Blinked Principle Miller.
"I dunno." Shrugged Otis.
At that moment the intercom in the maze turned on.
"And with that, Xadrian and Mr. Earl are through to round two!" Announced Chris. "Six spots remain!"
"See Master Skullzy, you're running out of time. Take things seriously!" Ordered Principle Miller.
"Fiiiiine. In that case, turn ninety degrees to the right and run straight forwards." Sighed Otis.
Principle Miller turned and ran … right into a wall which looked rather comical and painful.
"OWWWWW! Otis!" Yelled Principle Miller. "I told you to take this seriously!"
"What? Toying with you is very serious to me, I'm trying my best at it. The least you could do is be supportive." Teased Otis. "Ooo, hottie at eleven O'clock!"
Mrs. Reed was following Edith's instructions to get past the cacti; she had so far had several near misses and light brushings but hadn't fully spiked herself yet.
"Edith, where do I go next?" Asked Mrs. Reed.
Take five steps to the right and then take ten steps forwards." Stated Edith. "Be careful mum."
Edith's directions were slightly off as Mrs. Reed jabbed her hand on a large cactus.
"Ow! Edith!" Yelped Mrs. Reed.
"Sorry!" Said Edith apologetically.
Meanwhile Emilio was following Tilly's instructions, though he was moving as slow as he possibly could since he didn't actually want his sister to win immunity. He did not approve of the things that she was doing in the contest and thus he planned to hinder her rather than help her.
"Ok bro, take ten steps forwards and two steps to the left." Instructed Tilly.
Emilio did as his sister told him but made sure to do it slowly so also give the other team's a chance to catch up.
"Go faster bro, this is a race!" Reminded Tilly.
"I'm just being cautious." Replied Emilio.
"Well keep it moving Emilio, Ivy just managed to get to the next room." Stated Tilly.
"OW!" Yelped Larry as he spiked himself on a cactus. "Mum, be more precise!"
"Sorry Larry, I didn't notice that one." Apologised Mrs. Chen.
"… How?" Said Larry flatly.
(Confessional: With sharks!)
Otis: I don't care about winning this challenge; why would I? Between being safe and trolling my stuck up principle I'll pick the latter option every time.
Larry: You know, I like spending Quality time with my mum … but not like this! At least it's funny to hear the meathead jock squeal like a baby. (Larry chuckles)
Edith: I hope mum won't be too sore about this… metaphorically speaking.
(Spinning Room)
Kelly and Xadrian were both through to the next round already and thus six spots were left, and most of the people not yet through to the next round were really trying to cross the checkpoint line. This was made difficult due to the fact everybody was having problems staying standing on the spinning floor. Currently Penta, Donald, Ivy and Charles had all made it to the spinning floor and were struggling to stay standing. Donald managed to get to his feet and take a few steps in the direction of the checkpoint.
"Wah!" Yelped Donald as he fell he the ground.
He then promptly fell over.
"Come on Penta, you can do it! This is what you've been trained for!" Urged Mr. Polestar.
Penta started to crawl her way to the edge of the platform where she was going to wait for her chance to jump into the next hallway.
"This challenge is gonna get sha-struck by lightning!" Declared Lightning as he charged forwards onto the spinning floor. "WAH!"
Lightning slipped over and collapsed in a twitching heap.
"A broken Skelton will never stop the sha-Lightning!" Exclaimed Lightning despite the utter agony he was feeling.
"No, but it might put you in hospital if you don't choose to stop off your own free will." Warned Ivy as she made very slow but steady progress across the spinning platform.
"Lightning can't lose! Lightning don't know how to lose! Lightning is immune to losing!" Declared Lightning dramatically as he got to his feet only to fall over and scream in pain.
"Careful." Said Ivy as she continued to make her way along the spinning floor. "How am I doing mum?"
"You're doing fine Ivy, keep going as you are." Assured Mrs. Shiverly.
"Ok Penta, jump forwards now!" Ordered Mr. Polestar.
Penta did as her dad instructed and managed to make it to the next hallway.
"Ok Penta, walk forwards, the checkpoint is right ahead of you with no obstacles set up." Stated Mr. Polestar.
"Thanks for the good directions dad." Smiled Penta as she walked forwards and crossed the checkpoint. As she did so the one-up sound rang out.
"Penta and Mr. Polestar move on to round two; five spots remain!" Announced Chris over the intercom.
"I feel kinda bad for the stragglers." Noted Ivy.
"Not me, Lightning only plays for the sha-Lightning!" Declared Lightning.
At that moment Mrs. Reed entered the room and promptly fell over due to the moving floor.
"Edith, what's going on?" Exclaimed Mrs. Reed.
"It's a moving floor mum, like the carousal at the carnival." Explained Edith. "Keep calm and we'll figure this out."
At this point Ivy had managed to make it to stable ground and, after getting the 'all clear' from her mum, she progressed forwards and crossed the checkpoint. The one-up sound rang out.
"Ivy and Mrs. Shiverly claim the fourth spot in round two; four spots remain." Announced Chris over the intercom.
At this point Larry and Emilio arrived and, like many before them, they very quickly fell over to the ground. Due to this, six of the remaining 8 runners were being spun around on the spinning floor.
"I feel dizzy." Mumbled Charles.
"Me too." Groaned Larry. "How could this get worse?"
"Sha-BLAARGH!" Puked Lightning, sending vomit onto the floor which, due to momentum, started to trickle in various directions.
"… Crap." Sighed Larry.
"Come on Charles, up and at them!" Exclaimed Ted. "You'll be covered in vomit if you don't!"
"I can't do it." Groaned Charles.
"Zanna won't kiss you if you're covered in vomit." Added Ted.
This seemed to do the trick; Charles sprang to his feet and managed to keep his balance.
"Where do I go Ted?" Asked Charles.
"Run straight forwards at full speed." Ordered Ted.
Charles did as he was instructed to and started to make his way forwards; as he did so a monstrous roar was heard.
"Not him, not now!" Groaned Donald.
At that moment a monstrous and murderous figure leapt into the obstacle course and landed on the spinning floor. It was the Sloppy Joe Monster, and it looked angry!
The Sloppy Joe Monster let out an inhumane shriek and charged towards Donald; it promptly slipped over on the vomit and sailed into the wall.
"Where's the monster? I can't see! Is it near me?" Asked Donald nervously.
"Nope, it crashed into the wall." Called Matthias. "Get back to your feet and keep trying!"
"That's what I'm trying to do!" Exclaimed Donald. "It's not as easy as it seems you know!"
"Well it seems to be easy for the red haired guy with the make-shift glasses." Replied Matthias.
Charles flopped off the spinning floor and onto solid ground.
"That … kinda hurt." Winced Charles.
"Who cares about that? You've got a clear path to the checkpoint! Go for it Charles!" Exclaimed Ted.
"Sure, I'll try." Said Charles as he made his way forwards and crossed the checkpoint, therefore causing the one-up sound to ring out.
"Charles and Ted move on to round two; only three spots remain. Better get a move on guys!" Announced Chris.
"But there's a monster trying to get me!" Exclaimed Donald.
"Monster? Keep it away from me!" Gulped Mrs. Reed. "Edith darling, which way should I go?"
"Take three steps back." Advised Edith.
Mrs. Reed did as her daughter instructed; a moment later Lightning dashed where Mrs. Reed had been standing and then tripped over and fell flat on his face.
"Sha-doh!" Exclaimed Lightning.
"This is not gonna end well…" Groaned Larry.
(Confessional: What made him think it would?)
Larry: … Maybe I should just throw in the towel and bring in the bandages?
Charles: Part of me wanted to see what was going on, but part of me is glad that I was blindfolded … weird feeling, huh?
Ivy: I am so glad I was finished before the Sloppy Joe Monster decided to show up. (She mimes wiping sweat off her forehead)
(Cacti Hall)
"Daddy, I'm scared." Murmured Quadesh as she very slowly made her way through the cacti hall. "Please make sure I don't get spiked again!"
"Don't worry Quadesh, I'll keep you safe. I promise." Assured Mr. Rustflower very gently.
"Really…?" Asked Quadesh.
"Really." Promised Mr. Rustflower. "Now, you're nearly out of the cacti maze; take five steps to the left and we'll work it out from there."
"… I can't…" Murmured Quadesh. "My butt is really sore and I don't want to get hurt more than I already am."
"Trust me Quadesh, you'll be fine … but you don't have to do it if you don't want to." Said Mr. Rustflower gently.
"No … I'll do it." Said Quadesh bravely as she summoned her courage and took five slow steps to the right; she was unharmed.
"Good girl Quadesh, but you've not done yet. Take three steps forwards; you're almost there." Encouraged Mr. Rustflower.
"I won't let you down daddy." Nodded Quadesh.
Meanwhile Otis was still toying with Principle Miller; the principle had become a sort of dreadful plaything for the skulduggery and Otis was loving being able to cause havoc to his least favourite person from his life outside the show.
"Ok, ok, enough joking around. Take a step to the right." Chuckled Otis.
"No, I'm not listening to you anymore. You're trying to hurt me, so I shall be taking a step to the left." Scowled Principle Miller.
Principle Miller stepped to the left … and promptly spiked himself on a sharp cactus.
"OW!" Yelped Principle Miller.
"I hate to say I told you so." Teased Otis. "Will you be willing to listen to me and take four steps forwards?"
Principle Miller was almost writhing in pain, but he was able to take four steps directly forwards … right into a cactus.
"AAAAAAAAAARGH!" Screamed Principle Miller.
"Oh man, I could never get tired of this!" Cackled Otis.
(Confessional: Cacti are nature's biggest weapon.)
Otis: If you think I'm being harsh, then let me tell you that this is the guy who gives kids detentions for being happy, bans all sweets and nice things on school premises and furthermore he cancels recess for petty reasons such as a few puddles.
Quadesh: Even when I can't see his deeds … it doesn't make him any less awesome…
(Spinning Room)
Larry, Emilio, Donald, Lightning and Mrs, Reed were still being spun around on the spinning floor. In addition to this the Sloppy Joe Monster was still trying to attack them, but it kept falling over when it slipped on the vomit.
"When will this be over?" Grounded Larry.
"Can somebody get rid of the monster, please? Only that I don't want to get bisected if at all possible." Said Donald in mock calmness.
"How can we fight it when we can't see it?" Inquired Larry.
"Simple, get somebody on the balcony to deal with it." Stated Donald. "Hey! Guiders! Could one of you deal with this monster please? Preferably permanently? Only that we don't want to, you know, DIE!"
"Ah c'n h'lp. But f'rst, ya gotta try 'n st'y st'll." Said Mr. Earl.
Everyone agreed to this. A moment later Mr. Earl took out a small single hand shotgun, possibly homemade, out from under his shirt. He aimed it at the Sloppy Joe Monster and, after checking it was safe for those in danger, he fired. The monster let out a scream and climbed up the wall of the room; it then jumped off and fled into the forest.
"Did somebody just fire off a gun?!" Exclaimed Mrs. Reed.
"Sha-bang!" Declared Lightning.
"Wh't do ya'll have ta compl'n 'bout? Ah saved ya'll, d'n't ah?" Said Mr. Earl flatly.
"He has a point." Admitted Emilio.
"No time for distraction! Emilio, run forwards!" Exclaimed Tilly.
Emilio did so but subtly tripped himself up and fell to the ground.
"Larry slowly head backwards to the wall and lie against it." Said Mrs. Chen.
Larry did as his mother instructed him to, carefully keeping his balance as he did so, and was soon being carried around the wall by the moving platform. He soon fell backwards into the hallway where the checkpoint was.
"Ow." Said Larry flatly.
"Ignore the pain Larry; get to your feet, turn around and then walk onwards; you'll reach the checkpoint with no problems." Said Mrs. Chen seriously.
"Yes mum, thanks mum." Said Larry as he got to his feet and followed the instructions that he had been given.
Larry crossed the checkpoint and the one-up sound rang out again.
"Larry and Mrs. Chen move on to round two; only two spots are left in the second round, so pick up the pace people!" Exclaimed Chris over the intercom.
"Go for it mum!" Exclaimed Edith.
"Come on bro, you can do it!" Urged Tilly.
"Come on Donald, you've got this!" Encouraged Matthias.
There was a moment of silence.
"Why is nobody cheering for sha-Lightning?" Whined Lightning.
Emilio pretended to have trouble getting to his feet which gave Larry and Donald a chance to stand up; however they both quickly bumped into each other and ended up falling over. As luck, or the lack thereof, would have it … Donald fell into the vomit.
"Ewwww! This jacket cost a lot of money!" Complained Donald.
"Come on bro, keep going!" Said Matthias encouragingly. "Emilio is getting ahead of you; after him!"
"I would if I knew which way he was going." Said Donald.
"This is loco." Muttered Emilio.
"Ok mum, run forwards and don't stop!" Ordered Edith.
Mrs. Reed did as her daughter ordered and managed to make it off the spinning platform and after that ran over the checkpoint.
"Edith and Mrs. Reed claim the seventh spot in round two; only one more pair can join them." Announced Chris.
"And it's gonna be me and Emilio." Added Tilly.
"No, it'll be me and my daddy!" Declared Quadesh as she ran onto the spinning platform and promptly fell over. "Oof!"
"No, Lightning is not gonna sha-lose!" Declared Lightning as he stood up and ran in a random direction; he promptly slipped on a puddle of vomit and slid forwards at quite a speed.
By a fluke of chance Lightning slid right into the next hallway and over the checkpoint. The one-up sound rang out.
"And Sampson and Lightning take the final spot in round two! That means that Donald and Matthias, Otis and Principle Miller, Quadesh and Mr. Rustflower and Tilly and Emilio are out of the challenge and will not be winning immunity." Announced Chris over the obstacle course intercom.
"Yeah! Woo! Sha-Lightning wins!" Whooped Lightning.
"… You know what? I'm glad to be out." Said Donald simply.
"Everybody who is out of the challenge must leave the obstacle course; eliminated runners may take off their blindfolds. Every runner still in the challenge must line up on the checkpoint, and every guider must gather on the balcony to guide their respective runner." Said Chris, before adding. "That means you too Sampson!"
"Huh, what?" Said Sampson sleepily as he woke up from his nap at the start of the obstacle course balcony.
(Confessional: To be honest, I kinda forgot about Sampson.)
Sampson: So, Lightning somehow got into round two despite being blindfolded and not having me, or anybody else, guide him? … Ok, even I will admit that is kinda impressive. Especially since he can do it again in round two and I can get some much needed sleep.
Otis: Eh, totally worth it.
Tilly: Oh well, I shouldn't be too disappointed; only one person could win immunity and there is no chance of me being voted out anyway.
Ivy: Maybe round two will be easier since there are less people to compete against? … Yeah, I don't think so either.
Soon enough the eight remaining runners were lined up on the checkpoint while the eight remaining guiders were on the balcony above them ready to start giving instructions.
"Ok everyone; same deal as before. Be one of the first four to get to the next checkpoint to get into the final round. If you are fifth or lower then you are out and won' receive immunity." Announced Chris over the intercom. "Everybody ready?"
"Lightning is ready to strike!" Exclaimed Lightning.
"We'd have to go it even if we weren't ready." Shrugged Edith.
"I hope this won't hurt." Winced Charles.
"Three … two … one … GO!" Yelled Chris.
"Make way for Lightning!" Declared Lightning as he dashed forwards before anybody else could move a single step.
"Yeah, you do that. Good luck and stuff." Said Sampson as he lay down to go back to sleep.
The rest of the runners started to slowly progress forwards as they listened to the instructions of their respective guiders.
"Keep going forwards Penta; I'll tell you when to stop." Stated Mr. Polestar.
"Run forwards Charles, it's just a bare hallway." Said Ted. "No obstacles up ahead!"
"No obstacles? Nice!" Cheered Ivy.
Everybody had heard Ted's words and quickly started to barrel forwards at full speed.
"Oops." Sighed Ted.
Further ahead Lightning was running full speed; he was the most athletic person at his school so he was used to running full speed along the sprint track, and this practise was definitely paying off.
"Ha! Spiky cacti, motion sickness and sha-agony can't stop the Lightning!" Cheered Lightning.
BAM!
Lightning, due to being blindfolded and not having a guide, did not see the ninety degree corner coming and ran full speed into a solid wall which likely caused a concussion, or at least a lot of pain.
"Sha-OWWW!" Wailed Lightning. "That sha-hurts!"
"Slow down Penta, there is a corner coming up!" Called Mr. Polestar as he and the other guiders followed after the runners.
All of the runners heard this and, while Lightning groaned in pain in a heap on the ground, the other runners managed to get around the bend and continue onwards.
"This isn't so hard; maybe I had no reason to worry after all." Mused Charles as he ran along the hallway.
"That's good to know; I wouldn't want to be put into too much danger." Agreed Mrs. Reed.
"Stop!" Yelled all of the guiders.
Everybody screeched to a halt … except for Ivy who ran over the edge of where the hallway ended and fell down into a pit of mud.
"Ew! What the heck is this? Please tell me it's not manure!" Gagged Ivy as she thrashed about, trying to regain her bearings.
"Welcome to the muddy monkey bars!" Announced Chris over the intercom. "Try to make your way across the monkey bars, but if you fall you'll land in the mud and you'll have to try and find your way to a ladder to get out and on with the challenge. Keep in mind, falling will not disqualify you, so don't feel too bad if you fall … unless you're germaphobic! Haha!"
"Could somebody flip off the intercom; I can't summon the will to do it." Stated Larry.
"Ah w'll … wait, where's tha int'rcom?" Asked Xadrian. "Eh, eith'r way Chr's s'cks."
"Ok Penta, take three steps forwards and reach up to the monkey bars; after that, just do what you usually do at the park back home." Instructed Mr. Polestar.
Penta did as her dad instructed her to and was able to get on the monkey bars and started to make her way across.
"This is kinda scary." Murmured Penta.
"Ah g't an idea wh't ta do." Decided Xadrian as he felt his way over to wear he had heard Penta's voice come from.
Xadrian quickly found the money bars and managed to climb on top of them; after this he began to slowly crawl towards to the other side of the monkey bars where solid ground awaited him.
"Hey, Xadrian cheated!" Exclaimed Ted.
"Like how you cheat at poker." Reminded Charles.
"… Point taken." Conceded Ted.
Just then some fast paced footsteps were heard by all.
"Lighting is not gonna lose!" Yelled Lightning as he charged into the room.
BAM!
Lightning crashed into Charles and Larry which sent all three of them over the edge of the platform and into the mud below.
"Sha-owie!" Exclaimed Lightning.
"Larry, are you ok?" Asked Mrs. Chen in worry for her son.
"I'm fine." Assured Larry. "Where do I go now?"
"Turn a little to your right and try to go forwards." Suggested Mrs. Chen.
"I'll try." Said Larry.
Charles groaned to himself; the glasses that Ricky had made for him had broken in his pocket so now, blindfold or not, he'd be having a lot of difficulty with sight.
"Why me." Groaned Charles.
Since Penta and Xadrian were progressing across the monkey bars and Ivy, lightning, Larry and Charles were in the mud, this meant that Koral and Mrs. Reed were the only ones on solid ground.
"Kelly, what do I do?" Prompted Koral.
"Move three big steps to the right and then feel your ways forwards; you'll be able to find the monkey bars and, hopefully, make your way across them." Stated Kelly. "If you fall, please don't be mad at me."
"No worries, I won't hold a grudge." Assured Koral.
"Listen carefully mum, see you if you can follow Koral's footsteps." Advised Edith.
"I'll try." Said Mrs. Reed as she listened carefully.
Koral managed to grab onto the monkey bars and began to make her way along them; Mrs. Reed followed the sounds Koral made and also grabbed onto the monkey bars; however, after a few moments she made a mistake when grabbing the next bar and thus she lost her grip and fell into the mud below.
"Are you ok mum?" Called Edith.
"I'll be fine." Assured Mrs. Reed.
At this moment Penta and Xadrian had managed to make it to the other side of the monkey bars (Xadrian doing so a few seconds before Penta did) and took off further down the obstacle course with their visitors guiding them.
"And Xadrian and Penta tale the lead!" Announced Chris over the intercom. "But anything could still happen … but let's be real here, it's very likely that only two spots are left in the next round; everyone else better hurry up unless they happen to have snail genes."
"Shut up!" Yelled Larry.
(Confessional: Mud pit mayhem!)
Xadrian: Ah dun't see why tha oth'rs are whinin' 'bout tha mud; a little d'rt never hurt n'body.
Penta: You know, I really surprised this challenge isn't so hard … then again, dad is being a big help. If I didn't have him and everybody had to it blindfolded then I dread to think what would happen…
Charles: This is just great. My glasses broke; now what am I gonna do? How can I compete without them?!
(Punching Balance Beam)
Xadrian and Penta arrived in a new room; up ahead was a two foot wide balance beam above a pit of what appeared to be very dirty and smelly water. Set up by the side of the beam were two walls and in each wall were several huge boxing gloves that punched towards the beam in a pattern. Of course, Xadrian and Penta did not see this due to the fact they were still blindfolded.
"Penta! Stop! There's a balance beam in front of you and the scarred boy; it's got boxing gloves on pistons punching in a pattern. Take it slowly and don't take any risks." Instructed Mr. Polestar.
"That sounds kinda dangerous." Gulped Penta.
"Follow my instructions and I promise that you will not fall into the dirty water." Assured Mr. Polestar.
"Dirty water … oh dear." Sighed Penta.
"D'rty w'ter ain't th't b'g a deal." Shrugged Xadrian. "Pappy, wh't sh'd ah do?"
"Thar's a wide l'dder at tha oth'r side of tha pool o' d'rty wat'r. If ya dun't mind getting' d'rty, ya c'd j'mp in tha wat'r an' swim t'wards it. Ah'll guide ya." Suggested Mr. Earl.
"Fine bah me." Nodded Xadrian as he ran forwards and fell into the dirty water. He then started to swim towards the other side of the pool while his pappy gave him directions.
Penta started to make her way across the beam, but soon her dad told her to stop.
"Penta, I have an idea. I will say 'Green' when I want you to run, and 'Red' when I want you to stop. With luck you will get to the other side nice, clean and safe. Is that ok with you?" Asked Mr. Polestar.
"I'll give it a go." Decided Penta.
"Ok then … green!" Said Mr. Polestar.
Penta quickly ran forward.
"Red!"
Penta stopped and barely managed to avoid a boxing glove; the glove then began to retract.
"Green!"
Penta ran forwards again and got past another boxing glove.
"Red!"
Penta ground to a halt and managed to avoid getting punched off the platform.
While Penta systematically made her way along the balance beam Xadrian had made his way to the other side of the pool and had reached the wide ladder. After securely gripping it he started to climb up slowly but steadily.
"G'd job son!" Clapped Mr. Earl. "One you get to the top just keep walking forwards and you'll make it to the checkpoint.
"Ah ain't g'nna let ya d'wn pappy." Assured Xadrian as he continued climbing.
Very soon Xadrian pulled himself onto solid ground and started walking forwards; at the same time Penta got past the boxing glove balance beam and tripped over to the ground.
"Good job Penta; the checkpoint is right ahead of you." Encouraged Mr. Polestar.
"Thanks dad." Said Penta as she got back to her feet.
While Penta was getting back to her feet Xadrian crossed the checkpoint and the one up sound rang out.
"Xadrian and Mr. Earl are moving on to round three." Announced Chris.
A few second later Penta crossed the checkpoint as well and once again the one-up sound rang out.
"Penta and Mr. Polestar are also moving on to round three; two spots remain." Announced Chris. "Could the rest of you just get out of the mud already?"
(Confessional: Those two have had it easy.)
Xadrian: Smellin' of d'rty wat'r ain't a b'g deal; ah c'n j'st wash of in tha sea aft'r tha chall'nge.
(Monkey Bar Room)
Xadrian and Penta were through to the final part of the challenge but the rest of the runners were having some problems; all six of them had fallen into the mud and had thus far been unable to make it out.
"Which way am I supposed to go?" Exclaimed Ivy.
"This mud is gross!" Gagged Koral.
"I'm this close to taking off my blindfold and giving up." Muttered Larry.
The guiders were each trying to give their respective runner some advice and directions, but it was hard to make their voices heard when everyone else was also yelling.
"Come on Charles! Wade directly forwards from where you are and you'll reach the ladder!" Yelled Ted.
Charles silent for a moment before he shook his head.
"I can't do it; my glasses are broken and I'm feeling stressed, in addition to being covered in mud. I quit." Said Charles as he took off his blindfold.
"Charles has taken off his blindfold; he and Ted are disqualified from the challenge." Announced Chris over the intercom. "They will now be removed from the obstacle course."
Two claws like the type seen in the skill crane games at arcades descended from above and plucked up Charles and Ted by the collars of their shirts. The two yelling boys were carried up and over the wall of the obstacles course where they were dropped to the ground.
"With two duos in the final round and one team disqualified five teams are left battling it out for the remaining two spots in the last section of the challenge." Announced Chris. "Time will tell if anybody can actually get out of the mud pit."
"You can bet that I'm going to." Said Larry in determination. "No amount of mud is gonna stop me … especially not mud that is about as pleasant as Chris."
"Hey!" Whined Chris over the intercom.
Directions were given to the teams still in the mud; bit by bit they started to find their way towards the ladder. Koral and Larry were closes with Lightning catching up on them by dumb luck (emphasis on dumb) while Ivy and Mrs. Reed were falling behind due to the difficulty they had with wading through the mud.
"Finally!" Exclaimed Koral as she felt the ladder and began to climb up it.
"Ladies first and boys right behind them." Stated Larry as he followed after Koral, though at a very slightly slower pace. "Man, climbing this ladder would be easier if I could see … and if I wasn't bloody caked in bloody mud…"
"Lighting is gonna win!" Exclaimed Lightning as he climbed up behind Larry. "Sha-bam! Sha-boom! Sha-bang!"
"Sha-shut your face!" Exclaimed Larry in annoyance. "Honestly, do you ever sha-shut up?"
Lightning was stopped answered when Ivy tripped over into the mud and let out a squeal.
"Ick! I think some of it got in my mouth!" Gagged Ivy.
"The things I do for my daughter…" Mused Mrs. Reed with a sigh.
(Confessional: Mud cake!)
Larry: I want to be happy since my mum is here, but it is not easy to be positive when a stupid meat-headed moron comes to the island and starts doing everything I consider annoying, and that's not including how I heard him kissing his biceps in here! (Larry shudders). I look forward to Lightning leaving the island tonight. I'm just glad he's not a contestant!
Lightning: Lightning sure showed that mud who was boss!
Kelly: At this rate I think Penta might end up winning immunity if this is what she is up against. I might need to select a back-up target…
(Punching Balance Beam)
Koral, Larry and Lightning all arrived at the balance beam with the boxing gloves alongside it. But due to the blindfolds none of them saw the obstacle … nor the pit of dirty water which Lightning promptly fell into.
"Sha-yikes! Good thing I can sha-swim!" Yelped Lightning. "… What smells like dirty bath water?"
"Dirty water? Of great…" Muttered Larry as he managed to feel his way forwards into the balance beam. "Am I going the right way mum?"
"Yes you are, but-." Began Mrs. Chen before getting cut off.
"Ok, thanks. Let me know if I'm gonna hit something." Said Larry as he began to walk along the balance beam.
BAM!
Larry was punched off the balance beam by one of the boxing gloves and fell down into the water. He quickly surfaced and spat out the water that had gotten into his mouth.
"Ew, gross!" Gagged Larry.
"Koral, there is a balance beam right in front of you. There are giant boxing gloves on pistons punching at it. Get down and crawl along the balance beam; you should be able to avoid getting hit." Advised Kelly.
"Got it." Nodded Koral as she got down flat on her belly and started to crawl along underneath the giant boxing gloves; it seemed that Kelly's plan was working.
Lightning and Larry were floating in the dirty water and had no idea which way to go next.
"Mum, where should I go?" Asked Larry.
"Turn around and then swim forwards; you'll reach a ladder that will get you out of the water." Stated Mrs. Chen.
"Got it." Said Larry as he started to swim towards his target.
"Thanks for the sha-tip!" Cheered Lightning as he swam in the direction where he heard Larry swimming towards. "Sha-winner!"
At this point Ivy and Mrs. Reed stumbled into the room and began feeling their way forwards.
"Ivy, there's a pit in front of you. Cease moving!" Ordered Mrs. Shiverly.
"Mum, you do that too." Added Edith.
While Ivy and Mrs. Reed continued to lag behind Lightning and Larry had made it to the ladder and were starting to climb. However, Koral had managed to make it across the balance beam with her crawling strategy.
"Ok Koral, you've got past the obstacle. The checkpoint is right ahead of you. Run!" Exclaimed Kelly.
Koral did as she was asked and was able to cross the checkpoint without any trouble; as she did so the one-up sound rang out.
"Kelly and Koral claim the third spot in the last round of the challenge; only one more duo can join them!" Announced Chris over the intercom.
"It won't be me; I think Larry and lightning are too far ahead now." Said Ivy in defeat.
"Same here; sorry Edith darling." Said Mrs. Reed.
Lightning and Larry climbed the ladder to get to the top; Larry made it up first and pulled himself up with Lightning right behind him.
"Run Larry, the checkpoint is right ahead of you!" Called Mrs. Chen.
Larry was about to run for it but then Lightning pulled himself up off the ladder.
"Lighting ain't gonna lose!" Yelled Lightning as he dashed forwards.
Larry was bashed to the side when Lightning ran into him; a moment after that Lightning crossed the checkpoint and the one-up sound rang out.
"Sampson and Lightning claim the final spot in the third round!" Announced Chris over the intercom. "That means that Edith and Mrs. Reed, Ivy and Mrs. Shiverly and Larry and Mrs. Chen are out of the challenge!"
"… Sometimes I don't know why I even bother." Muttered Larry.
(Confessional: I don't know why he does either.)
Larry: Why, just why?
Sampson: … At this rate I might actually win immunity. It'd be unnecessary, but still appreciated. Best part is that no work is required from me.
Kelly: I shudder to imagine what could have happened if I was a runner…
A few minutes later the four remaining runners were lined up on the checkpoint. Their respective guiders were on the balcony above the obstacle course and were ready to help their partner get past the obstacles.
"Ok guys, this is the final round. The first person to cross the finish line will win immunity while the other three get nothing." Announced Chris over the intercom. "You may start in three … two … one … go!"
The four runners quickly dashed off down the obstacle course and their guiders followed after them … except Sampson who once again settled down to sleep.
"Wake me when it's over." Mumbled Sampson.
Lightning was in first place and had a confident smirk on his face as he sprinted along. This was a contrast to the bruises, scrapes, welts, cacti spikes and other such injuries all over his body.
"Lighting is gonna strike down the competition!" Declared Lightning.
Lighting then promptly tripped over because he had stepped in a tire. This was because a bunch of tires were laid on the ground as a way of making the hallway harder to overcome.
"There is a tire obstacle up ahead Penta; you know what to do, we practised this back home." Reminded Mr. Polestar.
Penta began to make her way along the mass of tires without too much trouble; it almost seemed like she was doing it with practised ease.
"Watch out for the tires Koral." Warned Kelly.
"Ya h'rd wh't th'y said son, tires are comin' up!" Cautioned Mr. Earl.
Koral and Xadrian also started to progress along the tires; at this point it seemed the only obstacle was the tires themselves, so it was safe to make quick progress forwards without fearing the possibility of bumping into something.
"Heh, th's ain't th't 'ard." Chuckled Xadrian.
BAM!
A boxing glove on a spring promptly shot out from one of the tires and nailed Xadrian right in the crotch and also sent him over onto his back where he lay writhing in pain.
"Ooooooooo…" Whimpered Xadrian while clutching his crotch and going cross eyed in pain.
"Ooo, that had to hurt." Remarked Chris over the intercom.
"Sh't up…" Muttered Xadrian in pain.
Lightning had managed to get back to his feet and struck a pose.
"Tripping over a tire cannot stop the sha-Lightning!" Declared Lightning as she ran further down the course to try and catch up with Koral and Penta.
(Confessional: It's not easy being a dude…)
Xadrian: W'll, th'r goes Xadrian j'nior…
Penta was the first one off the tires and started to slowly make her way forwards into the unknown.
"Penta, there is a wall up ahead with ropes on it. You'll have to do some rope climbing to progress." Stated Mr. Polestar.
"I'm on it dad." Said Penta as she felt for a rope and, upon grabbing one, started to rope climb up the wall.
Koral arrived next and bumped into the wall.
"Oof! Is it a dead end?" Frowned Koral.
"It's a rope wall Koral; you'll have to climb up using a rope." Explained Kelly. "And hurry, Penta is ahead of you."
"Good thing I'm pretty good at climbing." Noted Koral as she started to climb up a different rope than the one that Penta was already using.
Lightning blindly charged forwards while trying not to pass out from the immense pain he was feeling.
"Lightning is not losing to two sha-children!" Declared Lightning.
"I'm a grown women!" Frowned Koral.
"Lighting does not sha-care." Said Lightning.
BAM!
Lightning ran full speed into the rope wall and staggered around; he now had a big bruise on his face.
"Sha-owwwww." Slurred Lightning due to the pain. "A sha-force field? That's sha-not sha-fair!
Lightning staggered around and was able to find a rope. He began to climb it as quickly as he could.
"Time to sha-climb and sha-win with my eyes sha-shut!" Declared Lightning.
The three runners climbed up their ropes; Koral had caught up to Penta by now, but before she could overtake her the rope she was climbing snapped and thus Koral fell down to the ground.
"OW! Ooo, my back…" Groaned Koral with a rather pained expression.
"Sha victory is sha-mine!" Cheered Lightning.
"Not if I beat you!" Said Penta calmly. "… Or if we both screw up and Koral and Xadrian catch up to us."
"Sha-please! Lightning is a sha-winner, you're just the second sha-banana." Scoffed Lightning. "I shall beat you little boy!"
"You'll have to catch up to me first." Teased Penta as she climbed onto solid ground, and then frowned. "Oh, and I'm a girl!"
(Confessional: Lightning might be gender blind…)
Kelly: Would it have killed Chris to spend a few extra dollars on getting stronger ropes? I know saving money is important, but seriously!
Penta made her way onwards; she had no idea if there were any obstacles coming up, but she was trying to go as quickly as she could in case Lightning was catching up.
"Stop!" Yelled Mr. Polestar. "There is a pit of water in front of you. You need to grab one of the ropes and swing over to the checkpoint on the other side."
"I'll try … but what if I fall?" Asked Penta nervously.
"There is a ladder leading out of the water; I'll guide you to it if you fall." Assured Mr. Polestar.
Penta felt about for a rope; she then grabbed one and prepared to swing.
"Make way for the sha-Lightning!" Declared Lightning.
Lightning ran up and accidently knocked into Penta and sent her into the water below with a splash.
"Ack! It's so cold!" Wailed Penta.
Lightning felt a rope brush against his hand and grinned in triumph.
"Victory is sha-mine!" Cheered Lightning.
"Penta, swim forwards and climb the ladder! You can do it!" Urged Mr. Polestar.
Penta started to swim for the ladder, but as she did so Lightning prepared to swing.
"Sha-bam!" Exclaimed Lightning as he swung over to the other side of the gap. "Yes, Lightning wins!"
Lightning took off his blindfold and started jumping up and down in a sort of improvised victory dance.
"Lightning wins and the crowd goes wild!" Whooped Lightning in triumph.
At that moment the intercom crackled into life.
"Lighting has taken off his blindfold and thus he and Sampson are disqualified from the challenge." Announced Chris.
"Sha-WHAT?! I reached the finish line first!" Yelled Lightning.
"Did you?" Responded Chris wryly over the intercom.
Lightning glanced down and saw he was standing one foot in front of the finish.
"No! Lighting can't lose! I'm not allowed to sha-lose!" Yelled Lightning in anger.
Two claws descended from above and plucked up Lightning and Sampson (the latter somehow stayed asleep) and then they were dropped outside the obstacle course.
Penta hauled herself onto solid ground and slowly took a few steps forwards. She managed to cross the finish line. Instantly the 'level complete jingle' from the original Super Mario Bros game rang out.
"Penta wins immunity!" Announced Chris. "Everybody may now take off their blindfolds if they are still wearing them."
Penta took off her blindfold; after her eyes readjusted to the light she cheered in triumph.
"I did it!" Cheered Penta. "Thanks for the help dad!"
"You are welcome; we make a good team." Smiled Mr. Polestar. "You would have made a good soldier, but if that is not the life you wish to pursue … then I will not force you."
Penta could not think of how to respond and so she just smiled.
(Confessional: P is for Perfect!)
Penta: So, I'm immune? Boy, this has taken a lot of weight off my shoulders. And dad isn't gonna make me be a soldier … best day ever!
Kelly: Looks like I'll need to think of a plan B. Man, why can't I live the life of a normal kid? Most kids don't have to worry about poverty and letting their entire family down.
Charles: It's nice Penta is immune; she's a cute sweetie … I'm not a cheater, I swear1 Sorry Zanna!
(Challenge Field)
Soon enough the twelve campers and their visitors were crowded around outside the obstacle course. Since Penta had won the challenge she and her dad were standing before the others while Chris stood next to them holding something behind his back.
"Congratulations Penta; you are today's challenge winner. As such, you have immunity at tonight's elimination ceremony." Stated Chris. "And to show that you are immune, here's the trademarked Immunity Necklace."
Chris revealed a necklace in his hand that was made from colourful pebbles on a string. It was like a fashionable rainbow accessory. He passed it to Penta and she put it on.
"Thanks Chris." Said Penta with a nod.
"As for the rest of you, one of you will be voted off at tonight's ceremony. You have a few hours to decide who it will be. Until then you can return to your camps, and your visitors will leave for the chinook to take them back to civilisation." Stated Chris. "You can all say your goodbyes if you wish."
Mr. Polestar turned to his daughter and gave her a hug.
"Goodbye for now Penta; I have confidence in you that you can win … or at least make it to the single digit ranks. I know you didn't like your military training, but I do hope it comes in handy for you. I'm proud of you; you're a soldier in spirit." Said Mr. Polestar warmly.
"… Thank you dad." Said Penta as she returned the hug.
"Also, if Larry is coming over after the show at some point then yo0u two are sleeping in separate rooms, understand." Said Mr. Polestar firmly.
"Yes dad, we will." Said Penta with a giggle and a roll of her eyes.
"I'll miss you Larry; this was the first time we've been able to spend quality time together in a long time." Said Mrs. Chen sadly.
"Don't worry mum, I'll be home in a few weeks." Assured Larry.
"And when you do come home we'll be acting like a real family, I promise." Said Mrs Chen sweetly.
"… Thanks mum." Said Larry as he hugged his mother.
Ivy and her mum shared a gentle hug.
"Win or lose, you're my daughter and I'm proud of you; never forget that." Said Mrs. Shiverly with a warm smile.
"Don't worry, I'll never forget it again." Promised Ivy.
"Little bro, good luck with the rest of the game. We'll all be rooting for you back home." Said Matthias as he and Donald shook hands.
"Thanks, but me and good luck seem to be a world apart." Said Donald with a hollow laugh.
Principle Miller looked at Otis harshly.
"You are lucky I am not on duty or you would be expelled." Said Principle Miller.
"Sucks to be you, huh?" Said Otis cheerfully.
"Good luck Kelly; me and the rest of the girls are rooting for you big time. Win that prize and change our lives." Said Koral as she hugged her little sister.
"I'll try my best." Promised Kelly.
Emilio just looked at Tilly.
"Well, see you later sis." Said Emilio with a sigh.
"Next time you see me I'll be rich." Smirked Tilly. "And then I'll be the best."
Mrs. Reed hugged her daughter and ruffled her hair.
"Me and your father miss you Edith, but we're proud of you. Try and win for us, but don't feel bad if you get voted off; we'll be happy either way." Smiled Mrs. Reed.
"Thanks mum." Said Edith with a smile.
Quadesh hugged her daddy tightly.
"I'm really gonna miss you daddy." Whispered Quadesh. "I wish you didn't have to go…"
"I know; I've really missed you my sweet, but you're doing great thus far. I'm sure you can keep it up for a while longer and come home a winner or a graceful loser. I'll be proud either way." Assured Mr. Rustflower.
"… Daddy, I'm gonna win." Said Quadesh in determination.
Xadrian and his pappy shook hands.
"Farewell son; ah h'v faith ya c'n w'n th't mon'y and get us on top o' tha heap. Good l'ck ta ya'll 'n God bl'ss." Smiled Mr. Earl.
"Ah ain't g'nna l't ya'll d'wn pappy." Said Xadrian confidently.
"Th'ts what ah like ta hear." Nodded Mr. Earl.
Lightning frowned at Sampson.
"I don't have time for lazy losers." Scoffed Lightning.
"I don't have time for idiots like you." Shrugged Sampson.
"Are you trying to sha-start something with sha-Lighting?" Glared Lightning.
"Start something? I'd much rather be done with you." Said Sampson as he turned and walk away.
"Yeah, well, you sha-stink!" Yelled Lightning.
Ted and Charles shook hands.
"Good luck Charles; bring home the moolah!" Grinned Ted.
"I'll try … but with my glasses broken I don't see how I can." Admitted Charles.
"Oh! I almost forgot; I have something for you." Recalled Ted as he reached into his pockets and took out a pair of glasses. "Pablo bought them with his own money; he says they are top of the line and are very resistant to breaking."
Ted passed the new pair of glasses to Charles and the geeky boy put them on; instantly everything look perfectly clear.
"Give Pablo my thanks." Requested Charles.
"Will do." Nodded Ted.
"Ok guys, that's enough time for goodbyes. Campers, return to your camp. Visitors, time for you to go." Stated Chris.
After the final farewells were exchanged the campers headed back to their camp. Since only one of them was immune they were all wondering how the vote would go. One thing was consistent for everybody; nobody wanted it to be them.
(Confessional: Wasn't that a Loved One's visit?)
Tilly: Time to start dominating and taking control!
Donald: Nobody knows about my alliance of four; due to this I think I have the element of surprise on my side. But, who to eliminate?
Xadrian: Hmm … ah h'v n't g't any idea how t'ngiht is g'nna go.
(Crazy Crustaceans Campsite)
Upon getting back to camp the twelve tweens split off in different directions. Donald had subtly signalled Edith, Ivy and Otis to follow him. Once they were alone and unseen in a bushy area of the forest Donald spoke.
"So, shall we start the alliance meeting?" Prompted Donald.
"When did you join our alliance?" Asked Ivy.
"This morning. Otis let me in; we've both been allies since the first day so it's only fair I get to join the alliance of my right hand man." Stated Donald. "Besides, who would be dumb enough to say no to a fourth vote?"
"Alfie?" Suggested Edith.
"Good one." Chuckled Otis.
"So, anybody got any suggestions who to vote for? I'm content to just follow whatever plan we end up coming up with." Stated Ivy.
"Perhaps we should vote out Sampson; he's … Sampson." Stated Edith.
"Great idea!" Exclaimed Otis.
"Perhaps … but he's not exactly a threat. Last I checked he sucked at challenges, and he only came close today due to his visitor. I say we let him stay so we can win immunity easier." Suggested Donald.
"Party pooper." Pouted Otis.
"Who would you suggest?" Asked Edith.
"Kelly. She is a lot more of a threat than she seems; she's gotten several people voted off already, most notably my girlfriend Yoko whom you may have spoken to before. I am not going to let myself get consumed by a grudge and a petty feud … but it'd be common sense to vote her off since she is very devious." Suggested Donald. "Don't let her outer shell fool you, she is quite cutthroat."
"But … she needs the money." Pointed out Edith.
"You mean you'd let her win over you?" Said Donald patiently.
"… I guess not." Admitted Edith. "Fine, Kelly it is."
"Will we need more votes? The more the merrier." Said Otis cheerfully.
"It's the first merge vote; it won't be a blow-out. I think four votes is enough." Assured Donald.
"Hopefully." Agreed Ivy.
(Confessional: Is one third of the vote gonna be a majority?)
Donald: I'll admit some of this is personal, but common sense would also show that Kelly needs to go soon. Then again, she isn't very strong … in all honesty I'd have kept her around if Penta wasn't immune.
Edith: And back I go to being a follower … gee, being a power-player and staying a power-player is not easy, huh?
Kelly and Quadesh were sitting on the beach looking out at the waves. Sampson was lying nearby and looked like he was asleep.
"I may not have won immunity, but seeing my daddy is enough to make up for that." Said Quadesh cheerfully. "I don't think even tonight's ceremony can ruin my mood; I doubt I'll get a single vote."
"Don't get overconfident; you might tempt fate." Warned Kelly.
"I'll try not to, but I just feel rather chipper." Said Quadesh apologetically. "So, got any ideas who to vote off?"
"I was gonna vote for Penta, but she's immune so now we can't do that. We'll need to pick somebody else." Stated Kelly.
"Well duh. Hmm, how about Larry? He's probably a threat in some way." Suggested Quadesh.
"True, but I have a better idea, I think. Let's vote for Ivy." Decided Kelly.
"Why would we do that? She's not a threat in any way." Said Quadesh in confusion.
"True, but at the same time you're incorrect. She has major sympathy going for her because of what Ub did to her, and for the record I felt terrible for her. People won't want to vote her off so we'll need to do it sooner than later or it'll never happen. Not just that but she and Edith are in a basically unbreakable alliance and I think Ivy is slightly stronger between them … in other words, stronger than me." Explained Kelly. "It's harsh, but you said it yourself. Good and evil do not matter in this game."
"I don't like it … but it seems like the best option." Conceded Quadesh. "Shall we get the word out?"
"Yes, lets." Agreed Kelly.
(Confessional: K is for cutthroat … oh wait, no it's not.)
Kelly: I'm reeling with guilt and self-loathing from the pre-merge, and this next vote won't help with how I'm feeling … but it needs to be done. I accept being hated; if it meant making life better for my family I'd be hated by all the strangers in the world. Now, who will be willing to go along with this idea?
Quadesh: It's strange … but I was having such a good time with my daddy today that I forgot I was in a competition. I guess father-daughter time can do that, huh? Now, who do I know who will listen to me?
Larry and Penta were sitting by the shelter holding hands. Larry was congratulating Penta on her immunity win.
"You did great today Penta; with you safe it's one less headache for me. I currently have several thanks to Sampson's bloody visitor…" Muttered Larry. "Still, despite the major annoyance I faced today … it was nice to properly spend time with my mum."
"Thin this might make you less cynical?" Asked Penta.
"Not likely." Chuckled Larry. "So, got any ideas who you'd like to vote off? I'm guessing Kelly?"
"Yeah, it's looking that way." Admitted Penta. "I don't want to, but at this point I think it's for the best. And yet, I don't think I'll like doing it."
"It's hard to move on from a past friendship … but Kelly signed her death warrant already, so it's no skin off my bones." Shrugged Larry.
"I wish I could be as objective and tough as you." Lamented Penta.
"Personally I wish I could be as sweet as you." Admitted Larry. "Do you want me to vote for Kelly?"
"I won't force you to. I'd like you to, but it's your choice in the end." Said Penta as she looked up at the clouds. "Hey Larry?"
"Yeah?"
"Gimme a kiss."
Larry was happy to oblige and gave his girlfriend a sweet kiss on the lips.
(Confessional: Opposites sure do attract!)
Penta: Immunity should stop me from feeling any worry or anxiety … and yet I still feel nervous.
Larry: Should I vote for Kelly? Well, Penta would like it and I like seeing her happy … but there may be a better option and I need to think of my own safety as well.
Xadrian was taking a walk along the beach; he had placed a fake Chris Idol half buried in the sand and now he was just relaxing.
"It sure is mighty beautif'l weath'r." Mused Xadrian. "Maybe ah c'd try'n g't a tan."
"I don't think a tan would suit you." Said a voice.
Xadrian turned and saw Kelly walking up to him.
"Evenin' Kelly, how ya doin'?" Asked Xadrian. "Ya schemin' or somethin'?"
"No, I just want to talk to you about tonight's vote." Assured Kelly.
"… So, b'sically y'r schemin'?" Repeated Xadrian.
"… Look, I just want to know if you'd be willing to vote for Ivy." Requested Kelly. "She's got the sympathy factor going for her and she'll make allies easily due to all she's been through. If we let her go too far nobody would ever vote her off, so … you in?"
"… Ah th'nk th's is k'nda mean." Admitted Xadrian.
"I know, but you want to win, right? We both need money badly and we'd have to vote Ivy off eventually since neither of us are close to her … might as well do it tonight and get it over with." Sighed Kelly.
"Ah'll k'p it in m'nd. I was originally thinkin' of votin' fur D'nald. He dun't need that money." Reminded Xadrian.
"… Good point." Admitted Kelly.
(Confessional: Will Kelly change her mind?)
Xadrian: M'ybe ah w'll go al'ng wit' K'lly, but f'rst ah'll have ta see wh't L'rry thinks.
Tilly was relaxing in a tree; she was feeling confident that things were going to go her way in the upcoming vote.
"Emilio may have botched immunity up, but I've still got this. Just need to get her alone and then I can work my magic." Chuckled Tilly.
"Hey Tilly, you got a minute?" Asked Quadesh.
"Sure. You wanna talk about the vote? Tell me who to vote for and I'll do it, no discussion needed." Assured Tilly.
"I see … well then, would you be up for voting out Ivy?" Asked Quadesh.
"Fine by me, I hardly know her." Shrugged Tilly.
"Thanks Tilly, I owe you one." Said Quadesh gratefully.
"I treat my amigo's well." Grinned Tilly.
(Confessional: Does Tilly think it's opposite day?)
Quadesh: It's nice that somebody has my back.
Tilly: Doy, why would I vote out an ally of mine? Ivy is my ticket to her alliance; if I have her then I have Edith and Otis, and maybe Donald. I already have Sampson and Charles so … yeah, I have complete control. But I need to vote somebody out and I know exactly who to eliminate.
Charles approached Sampson while fiddling with his new glasses.
"Do you feel safe tonight?" Asked Charles.
"Yes." Said Sampson as he lay on the sand.
"At least one of us is; I still feel a little nervous. I mean, there are twelve votes being cast tonight. It's reasonable to be concerned, right?" Asked Charles as he sat down next to Sampson.
"Probably." Shrugged Sampson.
"Any idea who you are voting for?" Inquired Charles.
"Maybe." Said Sampson tonelessly.
"… This isn't much of a conversation you know." Frowned Charles.
"Look, I've been lying here pretending to be asleep and I've overheard several people talking. People say a lot when they think one is asleep; your name did not come up, so just relax." Stated Sampson.
"Well that's a relief. So, who are we voting for?" Asked Charles. "Should we discuss it with Tilly?"
"I'll wait for Tilly to come and tell me; I'm too comfy to move." Said Sampson dully as he rolled over onto his side. "If you want something to do, maybe you should look for idols?" Suggested Sampson.
"Sounds like a plan." Nodded Charles. "Talk to you later."
Charles got up and walked away while Sampson settled down for a nap.
(Confessional: Sampson, ever the indifferent one.)
Charles: If Sampson is telling the truth then I'm sitting pretty tonight. Maybe after I look for idols I could just sit and watch the sunset … too bad Zanna can't watch it with me.
Larry was sitting by himself in the shelter; Penta had gone off to search for some food for dinner which meant he was able to have a few minutes to himself. As he relaxed Xadrian walked up.
"Hey L'rry, ya g't a mom'nt?" Asked Xadrian.
"What's up?" Asked Larry.
"I'm j'st w'ndering, who are ya votin' fur t'ngiht?" Asked Xadrian.
"I'm undecided so far, but Penta is voting for Kelly. I might join her, but so far I haven't made up my mind." Stated Larry. "Why do you ask? Got a plan in mind?"
"As a matt'r o' f'ct, ah do. See, ah w's actually speakin' w'th K'lly an' she s'ggested votin' out Ivy since she's g't tha sympathy f'ctor an' is mighty well liked." Explained Xadrian. "Ah th'nk we sh'd go fur it."
"… Sounds like a good idea, but I'm not totally sure. Can I have a while to think about this?" Requested Larry.
"Take yur time." Assured Xadrian.
(Confessional: Things are getting intense!)
Larry: So, Kelly or Ivy? … Tough call.
Ivy was sitting on a rock by the sea; she had taken off her shoes and sighed in content as she dipped her feet into the water.
"This is the life." Said Ivy in satisfaction.
"It sure is; in fact, if I win I might buy an island holiday home." Agreed Tilly as she walked up. "What's shakin' amigo?"
"Oh, you know, just relaxing before the vote." Shrugged Ivy. "Everybody is nervous since it's the first vote of the merge."
"I can understand that, it's important we all make the right decision." Agreed Tilly as she slid closer to Ivy. "So, mi amigo, want to hear the plan?"
"… The plan?" Repeated Ivy while inching away from Tilly.
"Si, mi amigo, the plan. I was thinking we could take out Larry; it'd be unexpected and he's a threat in the making. You know it to be a good move; why keep out a smart, tough and sane guy this late in the game? Our alliance will do better without him." Said Tilly persuasively while giving Ivy a wink. "I know I'm not an 'official' member of your alliance, but I kept you safe during the pre-merge. I made sure that you would not be targeted before the rest of your allies. Amigo's help each other; I scratched your back and now … you can scratch mine."
"Errm…" Murmured Ivy. "I'll pass it on."
"I knew you'd see how good of a move this is; if all goes well then we'll be the final two. Amigo's to the end." Grinned Tilly. "Now, sorry to cut this short, but I'm hungry and I saw some tropical fruit in the forest. See you at the ceremony Ivy; us LGBT gals have to stick together."
Tilly took her leave with a smile on her face while Ivy blinked and adjusted her glasses.
"… What just happened?" Asked Ivy out loud.
(Confessional: Strategy happened, that's what.)
Ivy: You know, Tilly is kinda creepy at times…
Tilly: See that Emilio, you could never do that. Like I said, I'm dominating this contest.
Sampson: You know what sucks? The new elimination is a walk away from camp. Tyler told us to head to the north side of the beach until we reach the cove … why couldn't we ride a train like we used to?
(Cove of Crybabies)
After dinner and after the sun had set the twelve remaining campers had trekked to the new elimination area. It was set inside a cove by the sea; set up were twelve stumps to sit on and a 'rum barrel' podium. A thin path led off to a voting booth to the right of the stumps while to the left was a path leading down a long dock where the Boat of Losers was waiting. A second pathway also branched off from the dock and led into a cave that seemed to lead upwards, but the campers did not know where. A sign next to it had a picture of Katie and Sadie. The waves entering the rocky cove were calm, but the atmosphere was anything but. The stars and moon were now out and the twelve merged campers were each sitting on one of the barrels, some campers looking more nervous than others. Chris stood at his podium and flashed a grin.
"So, like the new elimination area? I call it the Cove of Crybabies." Chuckled Chris.
"Well … it's visually appealing." Noted Penta.
"Kinda reminds me of the times my parents take me to the beach." Mused Charles.
"Well, first things first, congratulations to Penta on winning the first immunity challenge of the merge." Said Chris with an approving nod. "As for the rest of you … you could have done better."
"Ok then, why don't you do an obstacle course blindfolded and see how easy it is? I challenge you." Said Larry in annoyance.
"I'll pass." Said Chris quickly. "So, the elimination area may have changed, but the way things are done is mostly the same. I'll ask questions, you'll cast your votes in the voting booth on the pathway to your right. I'll hand out safety symbols and if you get the most votes then you're out. Simple right?"
"We'd have weeks to get used to it." Shrugged Kelly.
"So, first question of the night and of the merge … Quadesh, did you enjoy having your dad come to visit you?" Asked Chris.
"I sure did; it was so nice to see my daddy after so long. It made the father-daughter time all the more special. It may be a little odd to see me so cheerful, but me and my daddy are very close." Explained Quadesh.
"You're definitely a daddies' girl." Chuckled Chris. "Kelly' you've done a few deeds in the past that might end up having repercussions … do you feel safe tonight?"
"No, but then again so do the ten others who don't have immunity. Maybe I play hard, but I only do so for my sisters. I have nothing more to say on the subject." Stated Kelly.
"That might be best for your chances." Agreed Chris. "Larry, I noticed that you didn't seem to think highly of Sampson's visitor … why was that?"
"Do you even need to ask? He embodied everything that pisses me off. If my mum wasn't here I may have hit somebody." Stated Larry. "Why did he have to come?"
"Yeah why? I don't even like him either." Added Sampson.
"Comedy." Shrugged Chris. "Charles, you girlfriend Zanna was voted off yesterday; are you still feeling depressed by her departure?"
"Of course, but I'm trying to keep calm and play a strong and not paranoid game. I miss her, but I have to keep going. And I have other recent things to worry about as well." Murmured Charles. "I can only hope that things will work out for me in the near future … but I do feel safe tonight."
"That brings me along to another question. Tilly, do you have any idea who might be getting the boot tonight?" Asked Chris.
"I might have heard some names going around." Smirked Tilly.
"I can sense I'm not gonna get anything else out of you." Noted Chris. "Otis … you and your principle really don't get along, huh?"
"No sugar Sherlock." Said Otis in sarcastic mock amazement.
"Well, I think that's enough questioning for tonight." Decided Chris. "Normally this is where I would prompt you guys to play idols and then cast the votes … but first, I have a gameplay twist to reveal."
"Another one?" Groaned Charles.
"Penta, you've got immunity as shown by the necklace that you are wearing … however, if you feel you do not need it then you can willingly pass it on to somebody else. That person will become immune, but you'll become vulnerable to the votes. This can be done every round until the finals." Explained Chris. "What to do, what to do … passing on immunity could win you favour with others, but might screw you over, maybe. It all rests in what you decide to do with that necklace.
Penta was silent while some campers looked calculating and Otis seemed like he had thought of some silly idea. After a moment of silence Penta spoke.
"I'll keep immunity tonight." Decided Penta
"And with that, Penta is now officially immune and cannot be voted out tonight." Continued Chris. "Now, if you have the Duncan Idol … then now is the time to play it."
The tweens were all silent.
"Ok then; time to cast the votes. Larry, you're up first." Stated Chris.
(Voting Confessional: Will anything crazy happen?)
Larry: It's the best move to make. (He starts to write his vote.)
Tilly: (She holds up a vote for Larry). Adios Larry, you have no place in my game.
Kelly: (She holds up a vote for Ivy). Sorry Ivy, but right now you're my biggest threat. Maybe if I'd swapped teams as well we could have been allies.
Charles: (He holds up a vote for Xadrian).It's time I stop playing the nervous follower and start to take names and stuff … anyway, sorry Xadrian but you're definitely the biggest threat remaining. Plus, maybe it's paranoia, but I think you have something to do with the fake idols. I've seen your knife…
Donald: (He holds up a vote for Kelly.) Avenging Yoko peacefully and taking out a threat as well … I'm kicking arse tonight.
Sampson: Hmm … who to vote for…
After Quadesh had cast the last vote Chris left to tally up the vote totals. He soon returned with a treasure chest and his mallet. He placed both objects down onto his podium and spoke.
"Since you were all strong enough to make the merge, I felt that we would move on from puny chocolate doubloons. From now on we'll be using these beauties." Said Chris as he opened the chest to reveal eleven jewels. "From this moment onwards Sugar Gems are the new safety symbol."
"Are they sugar free?" Asked Otis.
"What do you think? Anyway, before I hand out the Gems … if you have the Chris idol, Lindsay Idol, Justin Idol, Eva Idol, Katie Idol or Sadie idol then now is the time to use them." Prompted Chris.
Every stayed in their seats and didn't speak.
"Ok then. First Gem goes to Penta since she is immune." Said Chris as he tossed a Gem to Penta.
"Thanks Chris." Smiled Penta.
"Also safe tonight are…"
"Charles"
"Edith"
"Quadesh"
"Tilly"
"Donald"
"Otis"
"Sampson"
"Xadrian"
"Larry"
"Huh?!" Gaped Tilly silently.
Ivy and Kelly were left without a Gem; Ivy looked slightly nervous while Kelly closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
"Ivy and Kelly; you two racked up the most votes tonight. It was close, but one of you had more than the other. One of you will be taking the Smash of Sorrow, walking the Dock of Dismay and Board the boat of losers … but that person will not be…
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Kelly."
Kelly relaxed as she caught her Gem. Ivy sighed in disappointment as she got to her feet.
"This bites … but maybe it could have been avoided if I hadn't been such a victim all my time here." Lamented Ivy.
"Ivy, you have now been voted out. Please bring me your Life idol." Requested Chris.
Ivy nodded, but first turned to Edith.
"Best of luck Edith; avenge all of the fallen CPN's and never be the victim." Said Ivy encouragingly.
"I'll try my best. Farewell my dear friend." Said Edith sadly.
"Tell Ub he smells of cat food!" Exclaimed Otis.
"Will do." Said Ivy with a shake of her head as she approached Chris and handed him her Life idol. "Ok Chris, smash when ready."
Chris did as he was asked; he placed Ivy's Life idol on his podium and raised his mallet and then bought it down onto the idol, smashing it into hundreds of pieces.
"Ivy, it's time for you to go." Stated Chris.
Ivy nodded and was about to leave, but Chris stopped her.
"However, we have one last thing to take care of tonight." Grinned Chris. "Bring it in chef!"
Chef Hatchet dragged a set of bleachers into the Cove of Crybabies; it was a testament to his strength that he moved it so easily. Soon the bleaches were set up next to the shore of the water. Nailed to the back of the bleachers was a sign that had a picture of a peanut on it.
"Presenting the last twist of the episode, and perhaps the biggest twist in the entire game, the Peanut Jury. This is a twist that will change the nature of the game. See, per-merge you'd vote somebody off and be done with them … but not anymore! From now on every time somebody is voted off they will join the Peanut Jury and will return to watch every ceremony up until the finals. When only three of you are left standing you will be asked questions by the nine members of the Peanut Jury and they will vote for who they deem to be the most deserving of the prize; the finalist with the most votes will win the game." Explained Chris.
Everybody looked stunned.
"So, to recap, when you're voted out you join the Peanut Jury, watch every following ceremony and at the finals you can vote for the winner. No challenge to determine it, just a good old fashioned vote and hard questions." Smirked Chris.
"So … I get to vote for the winner?" blinked Ivy.
"Yep, you and eight others will do that in the finale." Nodded Chris. "For now though, all I can say is that you are the first member of the Peanut Jury and it is now time for you to go."
Ivy nodded and, after a last wave to her friends, walked down the Dock of Dismay and boarded the Boat of Losers. The boat started up and began to leave the island.
Once Ivy was gone Chris turned to the remaining eleven tweens.
"You have voted out the first person of the merge, and also put that person on the jury. You'll have to be extra careful from now on; you wouldn't want to make the jury furious with you." Cautioned Chris. "You may head back to camp."
The eleven campers got to their feet and headed out of the Cove of Crybabies. Kelly looked deep in thought, Tilly looked angry and everybody had one thought on their minds.
The Peanut Jury changed everything.
(Confessional: Bet you didn't see that twist coming!)
Kelly: This might be a bit of a problem … hopefully it won't hurt my chances.
Penta: I was gonna vote for Kelly … but I couldn't bring myself to vote out somebody who was once a close friend. I'm strong physically, but I'm so weak emotionally…
Tilly: Mierda! What the hell just happened?! Ivy was an important ally and now she is gone … who the hell did this!? (Tilly takes a few deep breaths). I'm sure I have her vote, but this buggers everything up!
Donald: Well … that could have gone better.
Chris stood on the Dock of Dismay to give the outro.
"What an explosive merge episode we'd had!" Exclaimed Chris. "Family visitors, painful injuries, manipulation, lying and all the things that make this show great! Ivy is gone, but now the Peanut Jury twist is here; the tweens better hope they don't anger the jury. But this raises many questions. Will the Peanut Jury make anybody change their game play? How will Edith cope with losing her best friend? How will Tilly deal with losing her 'close ally'? Will Sampson really be able to blend in and slip on by? Can Kelly keep on being devious, or will she crack under the pressure? Can Penta possibly make up with Kelly? And who will be the next person voted off? Find out next time on Total Drama Tweenabet!"
VOTES
Charles- Xadrian
Donald- Kelly
Edith- Kelly
Ivy- Kelly
Kelly- Ivy
Larry- Ivy
Otis- Kelly
Penta- Sampson
Quadesh- Ivy
Sampson- Ivy
Tilly- Larry
Xadrian- Ivy
XXXXX
Ivy- 5
Kelly- 4
Larry- 1
Xadrian- 1
Sampson- 1
Crazy Crustaceans: Charles, Donald, Edith, Kelly, Larry, Otis, Penta, Quadesh, Sampson, Tilly, Xadrian
Voted off: Walter, Flynn, Veedle, Mist, Alfie, Joanne, Ned, Ricky, Betilla, Gilda, Ub, Yoko, Harvey, Zanna, Ivy
Yep, the winner is NOT being decided by a challenge and is instead being voted for by a Jury like in Survivor. I haven't seen this in a TD fanfic before so thought it would be fun to try something different. And it adds a new layer to strategy since some jury members may be bitter at the people who got them out. It's all about damage control folks.
As for Ivy, she was a pretty polarising character, and I can see why. With Ivy, she started out as basically just another camper and maybe even filler at a first glance. My goal with Ivy was to do a coming out story since, really, I haven't done one before because Irene and VayVay already out of the closet in TDL and Yessica just rolled with it. With Ivy, I wanted to delve into the more bleak and sad parts of coming out, and also tie it in with how some people do anything to get ahead (that's where Ub came in). I personally liked Ivy, but I do agree with the fans that her arc lasted too long. But I felt it may be seen as offensive if it was rushed and wrapped up quickly. Whether you loved her or hated her (there is no real in between) Ivy finishes in twelfth; she was a major character pre-merge but had no place post merge.
Next Time: The campers play the most intense game of Musical Chairs the world has ever seen!