Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama or any of its related seasons. They belong to Teletoon and Cartoon Network. The alphabet theme isn't mine and is property of Frank15. The 52 OC's in this story however are mine so do not steal them.

The Warning: This chapter contains swearing, strategy, alliances, a rather sad backstory, a hair obsessed moron and somebody getting wedgied. You have been warned!

Note: It's been a while hasn't it? Sorry, but I just had a case of writers block and I was focusing on Tween Tour quite a lot. I'll be working on Letterama more in the future since it is getting close to the end. I hope you all enjoy this chapter; it was a lot of fun to write.

From the dinosaurs all the way to the robots!


The nine campers had entered the tunnel to the past themed challenge and were now in a clearing where the first of the three challenges was to take place. The ground was sandy and dry which contrasted the rest of the forest and a number of mud pits were set up. Also three nests were at one side of the clearing ... and at the other side was a trio of robotic dinosaurs which were watching the group.

"Are those dinosaurs dangerous?" Asked Winnie nervously.

"They're not gonna leave you with any serious harm." Assured Spider. "But they are programmed to pursue you; they are the main obstacle in the first challenge."

"So, what's the first challenge?" Asked Max eagerly. "I'm ready to win this thing!"

"Your first challenge is, as we said before, past themed. And the thing that most people associate with the past is dinosaurs. Your objective is very simple; all you have to do is collect seven dinosaur eggs and put them in your nest; the eggs are just lying around, though some of them are in the mud or half buried in the ground. If I were you I'd try and get the ones that are further away first and leave the nearer ones for last ... though your opponents might nab the eggs you had intended to get." Explained Spider. "Now, since Winnie, Yannis and Max are competing the rest of you have to stand off to the side and watch. Rest assured that you guys will not be pursued or even acknowledged by the dinosaurs, you are safe."

"That's good to know; since I'm quite short and scrawny I'm not too fond of creatures that are several times bigger than me and have sharp teeth." Stated Lankston.

"Yeah, they look like Tyrannosaurus Rex's." Agreed Zed. "I hope they won't eat anybody."

"I wouldn't worry; the challenges are, by and large, safer now that Chris isn't the host. I don't think you've got anything to worry about." Assured Rheneas.

"I just thought, since I'm dressed as a soldier do I get a gun?" Inquired Winnie. "Only that it would be kind of useful."

"Sorry, but you're going to do this challenge unarmed, that way it keeps up the suspense." Stated Quana.

"But Max has his robot suit." Pointed out Winnie.

"I know ... but he made that by himself and technically there is no rule against it ... it's complicated." Sad Quana apologetically. "Now, if that's everything out of the way, shall we start the challenge?"

Yannis raised his hand.

"Do you have a question?" Asked Spider.

Yannis reached into his pocket and took out the Eleanor Idol which he then passed to Spider. Spider gave it a look over and nodded.

"Yannis has played the Eleanor idol and it is indeed not a fake. Yannis's conditions for winning are now simplified." Announced Spider."Instead of collecting seven eggs, Yannis now only has to collect three."

"Well played Yannis." Complimented VayVay. "That's one less Idol in the game."

"Indeed, the Eleanor Idol will now be permanently taken out of play." Nodded Quana. "However, the Uzuri Idol, Barney Idol, Raven Idol and Immunity Alphabet Idol are still able to be used. If anyone else has an Idol they would like to play ... now would be the time to do it."

Everyone was silent.

"This is boring!" Exclaimed Opal. "Can we start the challenge now?"

"Good idea, let's get this show on the road." Nodded Spider.


Confessional: Wouldn't that mean it's a travelling circus?

Winnie: I have to admit that I'm a bit nervous about this challenge; those dinosaurs were quite big ... very big. Since Max has his robot suit and Yannis played his Idol I don't really stand a chance against them ... well, I suppose I'll try, I might get voted off if I stand around and do nothing.

Yannis: (He looks confident and makes a 'bring it on' gesture.)

Max: Normally I'd completely suck at a challenge like this, but with my robot suit I think I stand a big chance at winning. I don't want to sound big headed, but I feel like I'm a shoe-in for physical challenges from now on. Robot suit don't fail me now!

Rheneas: It's kinda typical that both of the other teams have an advantage yet my team doesn't. Thankfully Max is only in one challenge and the Idol only helps Yannis. Hopefully I'll be able to win at my challenge in case Winnie doesn't win this one. And those robot dinosaurs were pretty impressive, I wonder if Wallace built them.

Wallace: I did; there's nothing like a healthy dose of prehistoric evil, mwahahahahaha!

Sasha: I'm very glad to be with Max for this challenge; it makes me feel more at ease since I'm sure I can rely on him to win. But I'm still thinking, if we're safe than Lankston will be too ... if he was planning on using me then he likely was with everyone else. I'll keep quiet for now and see what he does. After all, I'm known as Hawkeye in my gaming guild on X-Box.

Lankston: I intend to separate another couple today; the question is who do I get voted out? Each of them has their own strengths and weaknesses that I must consider before I make my decision. I also have to think about what future challenges will be and how likely it is one of them could have an advantage in it. I'm certain I could win a mental challenge, but physical challenges aren't my strong point. Either way I won't vote for Yannis since he's the one I stand the most chance against in a one on one challenge, namely the final challenge of the season.


Spider sounded an air horn which signified the beginning of the challenge; Winnie and Yannis immediately ran for the eggs while Max tapped together the heels of his robot suit. Instantly the jet thrusters activated and he blasted forwards like Superman.

"I have a feeling this is going to be a one sided challenge." Noted Rheneas.

"Good thing Max is on my team." Said Sasha thankfully.

"As long as he has that robot suit he is going to be unbeatable." Mused Zed. "Maybe we should vote him off if he doesn't win immunity so that the rest of us stand a chance; after all, this is the last team challenge."

"You pose a good point Zed." Agreed Opal. "But there might be challenges where he'll, hahaha, have just as much difficulty as us, like an eating challenge. Unless I'm mistaken, a robot suit wouldn't, hahaha, help in an eating challenge."

"Opal has a good point, it won't help in every type of challenge and Max isn't known for his strength; we should vote off somebody who is good all around." Nodded Lankston.

"Like Rheneas?" Asked Zed.

"That's not exactly what I meant, but if you want." Shrugged Lankston.

"I'm not that big of a threat." Insisted Rheneas. "In what ways am I a threat?"

"You're the strongest and your girlfriend is an intern; that could give you a double advantage." Stated Zed.


Confessional: Being a major character is a double bladed sword it seems.

Rheneas: Hmm ... people are really starting to see me as a threat, this could be a problem. I suppose I could either go on an immunity run or deliberately lose challenges in pathetic ways so as to be seen as less of a threat. Only eight more rounds till the finals, hopefully I can survive that long.

Zed: All I'm saying is that Rheneas, though a good guy, is the biggest threat. I suppose Max's suit makes him stronger, but Rheneas is good all round and I wouldn't want to go against him one on one. We may have to cut him loose depending on the result of today's challenge, but I'm concerned ...when only four or so of us remain we'll be voting of our close friends, it's gonna be mighty difficult.

Opal: I have an idea; since myself and Zed and also Winnie and Yannis are the only couples remaining ... maybe we should team up? We'd have four out of nine votes on our side that way. I'll have to, hahaha, ask them after the challenge.


Yannis quickly grabbed a dinosaur egg and ran back to his nest with it and tossed it in. Winnie did the same and was going as quick as she could due to the fact she was at a bit of a disadvantage. Max had already gathered two eggs and was in the process of quickly digging up the third which was half buried.

"Ok guys, we're going to release the dinosaurs now, so you might want to be careful." Cautioned Quana as she took out a remote and pressed a button.

Instantly the three dinosaurs stood to attention and began pursuing the three campers; Winnie let out a scream as one of the dinosaurs towered over her and she quickly ran through its legs to evade it.

Yannis gulped as he took up at the dinosaur that was approaching him; he grabbed another egg and quickly dashed back to the nest and threw it in; he only needed one more egg and he would win. He then noticed that Max had deposited two more eggs into his own nest which raised his total to four.

The dinosaur pursuing Max was having difficulty keeping up with him due to how fast he was flying. It watched Max fly around it in circles as fast as a blur; after a few moments of pause it lunged out with its jaws and grabbed Max in them.

"Max! Are you alright?" Asked Winnie in concern

There was silence from within the jaws.

Suddenly the Robot Dinosaur's jaws were prized wide open by Max; his robot suit seemed to have given him super strength. Max held them open and flew out; as he did so he faced the dinosaur and held out his right arm and balled his fist which began to charge with energy.

"Now would be a good time to gain a lead ... and yet I cannot turn away." Blinked Winnie.

Yannis nodded in agreement as he watched Max to see what he was about to do.

Max charged up the energy bolt to maximum level and blasted it right at the dinosaur; the robotic dinosaur let out a mechanic roar as it staggered before collapsing down into one of the mud pits and shutting down.

"All in a day's work for Iron Max." Declared Max in quite a hammy voice. "And now on with the challenge."

In the time it took Winnie and Yannis to recover from their shock Max had managed to get a fifth egg into his nest. They saw Max was getting closer to victory and quickly scrambled to get more eggs.

Yannis quickly distanced himself from the robotic dinosaurs and began to try and excavate another egg. As he did so he noticed one of the remaining two robot dinosaurs sneaking up on Winnie. Yannis was about to warn her, but then he remembered that he couldn't talk. Thus he could only watch as the Dinosaur bent down and grabbed Winnie in its teeth.

... Sort of.

"Aaaaagh! Help!" Wailed Winnie.

The dinosaur had grabbed Winnie by her underwear (a pink thong) and was now dangling her above the ground while her underwear stretched like elastic.

"Are you alright Winnie?" Called VayVay in concern.

"Well, it doesn't hurt ... but this is really embarrassing!" Exclaimed Winnie.

"Don't worry, pink looks good on you." Assured VayVay.

"Thanks, I don't know whether to be embarrassed or flattered." Replied Winnie in mild amusement. "Excuse me Mr. Dinosaur, but could you put me down?"

The dinosaur shook it head to say no which shook Winnie from side to side. The force of this caused her underwear to snap right off and her to fall to the ground in a heap.

"... I have never been more humiliated." Mumbled Winnie.

Yannis quickly made his way over to his girlfriend to help her up and make sure she was alright; this gave Max enough time to grab two more eggs and dump them into his nest.

Spider sounded the air horn to signal that the challenge was over.

"And Max wins the first part of the challenge and gets Team Future a point!" Announced Spider.

Max did a loop de loop in celebration of his victory while Sasha cheered. Lankston simple clapped lightly and gave a curt nod.

"Like I said, a one sided challenge." Said Rheneas before sniggering. "I know I shouldn't laugh, but the fact Winnie's undies snapped was pretty funny ... is it wrong of me to think that?"

"Not at all, I found it kinda funny if not a bit juvenile." Shrugged Lankston.

"I hope she's alright; wedgies hurt a lot and that fall couldn't have been nice." Murmered VayVay.

"Have you been wedgied before?" Asked Opal.

"Yes, let's just say some people aren't fond of Bisexuals , but it could have been worse, it could have been a swirly." Stated VayVay.


Confessional: A blast from the past!

VayVay: I do admit that I have had some bullying problems in the past, but all it took to stop it was moving schools. And that's when I met Ginny. Half of life is about the experiences and half of it is learning from them; you could say that life is the ultimate test ... one that has no certain marking scheme. Still, I like to think that if the bullies were to apologize to me I'd be able to forgive them; forgiving somebody who mistreated you is one of the hardest things someone can do in my opinion ... it's why I'll never forgive Pokey.

Max: Alright! I really aced that challenge ... granted I had some help from the dinosaurs. If the dino's hadn't distracted Yannis then he might have won. But the challenge isn't over yet, it all comes down to how well my team mates do. But I have full confidence in Sasha and Lankston ... besides, we only need to win one more challenge to win overall anyway.

Yannis: (He sighs and holds up a piece of paper which says 'looks like I wasted the Idol ... dammit.')


The campers were following Spider and Quana to the next challenge; as they walked Winnie looked very embarrassed. VayVay and Yannis noticed this and slowed so that they could walk alongside her.

Yannis gave Winnie as look that clearly meant 'what's wrong'.

"Hey Yannis, I just feel really embarrassed. Everyone saw my undies and it was on international TV ... I bet a load of perverted fans are gonna be watching that scene over and over ... I just feel humiliated. Not only that, but my underwear snapped right off ... I feel so exposed." Mumbled Winnie quietly.

Yannis gave Winnie a comforting squeeze to her hand.

"Don't worry about it Winnie, you're not the first girl to have her undies exposed; it happened to me in the fear challenge and it happened to Jill in the kart racing challenge." Assured VayVay. "Trust me, this whole thing will blow over in no time at all."

"Thanks guys." Smiled Winnie. "But I completely blew it for my team."

Yannis gently rubbed Winnie's back to which she let out a purr.

"You're a great comforter Yannis." Said Winnie gratefully. "I suppose it isn't over yet; I'm sure Rheneas and Zed will succeed where I failed."


Confessional: Here's hoping, all three people on Team Present are popular characters.

Winnie: I guess I shouldn't worry so much, I'm not the only person to have been embarrassed on this show. Still, I bet that little incident will make the highlight reel. I just hope it gets cut when the episode airs on TV. The last thing I want is my parents seeing that...

Yannis: (He holds up a piece of paper which says 'I think I'm managing the responsibilities of being a good boyfriend without too much trouble.')

Sasha: Winnie and Yannis have a really sweet and special bond; I'll have to make sure that Lankston doesn't separate them. I have to wonder though, is there any other reason that Lankston wants to separate the couples besides getting back at those who voted for Nina? I doubt he'd tell me if I asked so I may never know.


The campers had been led through the tunnel that led to the Present themed challenge; a tank was set up and three slingshots were also set up around it with a number of grenades next to them.

"This is the present theme challenge; now, sad as it is, war is very common in our current time period. And thus our next challenge is based on war. What you have to do is simple, though when put into practise is may take a few tries. What you have to do is launch the grenades out of the slingshots and get one, just one, down the turret of the tank. The first person to do this will win a point for their team; if Team Future wins then the hole challenge will be over since everyone else would have no way of winning." Explained Quana. "The participants for this challenge are Rheneas, VayVay and Sasha."

The three participating campers stepped forward and went to their designated catapults to get ready to start the challenge.

"I could have done well at this, I'm not a bad, hahaha, shot with a slingshot. I'm like a modern day David, and the tank could have been Goliath ... who would name their son Goliath anyway?" Mused Opal.

"Cruel parents." Stated Lankston. "I'm not particularly religious, but I do quite enjoy that story; the small defeating the big and strong, if only it happened more often."

"Jimmy beat Kasimar last season, that ahs to count right?" Pointed out Zed.

"... Hmm, I suppose you're right." Agreed Lankston. "But since Kasimar was a coward it isn't as much of a victory."

"Fighting isn't really a good thing; does anybody really enjoy causing pain?" Asked VayVay out loud.

"I can name some people; Kasimar, Kim, Nakia, Quarla ... need I go on?" Asked Lankston dryly.

"I suppose bullies make for good TV." Mused Opal. "I wonder what types of people will be in the next season ... if there is another season."

"Total Drama is a really popular franchise, I'm sure there will be another season." Said Winnie confidently. "Who knows, there might even be an all stars season sometime, if that was the case then we could possible return for a second go at the game. Would any of you do anything differently the second time around?"

"I'd bring the necessary supplies with me to make my robot suit for the team phase of the game; it'd really prolong my stay." Said Max. "Also, I'd try and grow a moustache, Jill likes nerds with facial hair; so far all I have is stubble."

"Same with me, but that's simply because I don't like shaving that much." Nodded Lankston. "As for me I wouldn't do anything differently, I'm doing just fine at the moment."

"I'd be more careful with who I trust so that I don't feel as miserable as I have done during certain parts of the game." Said Sasha in painful memory.

Yannis nodded in agreement.

"Well, enough talking, it looks like the challenge is about to start. I hope none of the grenades hit anyone." Said Max before wincing. "And now I've probably jinxed it."

"You can't fight fate." Stated Opal.

"Opal's right, what happens will happen." Nodded Zed.


Confessional: Grenades are cool and all, but Dynamite is more of a classic.

Opal: Now that not many of us are left we seem to be able to be able t have casual and friendly conversations with no boundaries; Kim really was the, hahaha, source of all the problems. It's nice when everyone gets along, it gives me hope.

Max: If I had built my robot suit as early as day one then I think Team Everest would have been totally unbeaten. I don't think that's ever been achieved before ... well, it was in one season of Survivor, but this is total drama. If I can make the final then I think I've got a pretty good shot at winning. I know I may be targeted for being a threat ... but maybe if I pretend the suit has malfunctioned and doesn't work anymore I could survive getting voted off.

Sasha: This game has been a good growing up type of experience from me; I've managed to become not as gullible as I was, I won't be tricked again. I'm just glad that it happened on a game show and not in the real world outside the show or else it could have had deadly results. Even if I don't win I'm proud of how I've done; I'm gonna just see how far I can get, if I lose before the end I'll be fine with it ... and it I win then that'll be even better.


Quana sounded the air horn to signal the start of the challenge.

Instantly the tank's turret began turning around in a circle; quick enough to provide a proper challenge, but not fast enough so that it would be aggravating.

Rheneas quickly launched a grenade at the turret but it bounced off the tank; Sasha and VayVay both launched a grenade and had the same result.

"I have a feeling that this challenge is gonna take a while." Sighed Rheneas. "Hey Spider, what happens if we run out of grenades?"

"If that happens then we'll get Wallace to supply us with some more; he has got plenty of spares. I would think however that one of you will be able to get one grenade down the turret before then." Replied Spider.

VayVay pulled back on her slingshot and aimed carefully; she fired at the turret and missed by about half an inch; this was the closest any of them had gotten so far by quite a wide margin.

"Hey VayVay, how are you so good at aiming?" Asked Sasha.

"My school has a slingshot club of which I am a member; I've gotten a lot of practise with these things." Explained VayVay. "It's all about pulling back hard enough, getting the right leverage and releasing at the correct moment ... not easy, but once you know how it always comes back to you."

As the three competing campers continued to try and get a grenade down the tank turret Nakia arrived and glanced at the challenge.

"Boy, you guys look stupid; your hair looks ridiculous!" Sneered Nakia.

"At least we have hair." Stated Quana.

"Shut up you Hispanic Horse!" Yelled Nakia. "Me and you, right now, a fist fight! I am not going to rest until I get even with you. You ruined my life, it's only fair that I ruin yours in return!"

"How did I ruin your life?" Asked Quana before frowning. "And don't call me that!"

"You shaved off my hair! You took away what made me better than everyone else; now I'm ugly and I barely have anything to separate me from the normal people. I look like ugly and deformed freaks on poverty shows!" Whined Nakia.

"You've always been ugly ... ugly in personality." Said Spider coolly. "I'm not scared of you anymore Nakia, and I would like it if you left my girlfriend alone."

"You can't tell me what to do! I am Nakia Sommo Baxter!" Screamed Nakia.

"I've been meaning to ask, what kind of stupid middle name is Sommo anyway?" Blinked Max.

"It's short for Sommolatinala but I can't spell that." Stated Nakia. "Anyway, I'm gonna give you two the karma you deserve right here and right now!"

Before anyone could do anything else a grenade landed by Nakia's feet; she barely had time to react before it exploded and sent her flying away into the sky. Everyone turned to Rheneas who had fired the grenade.

"I thought she'd never shut up ... is she always that annoying?" Asked Rheneas.

"... You don't know the half of it." Sighed Spider. "I checked the online opinion polls after last season ended and even Kasimar had more fans than she did."


Confessional: Nakia is considered by many people to be THE most hateable character is the TDL series.

Spider: It is times like this where I wish I had the power to fire Nakia. I've honestly tried to make peace with her, but she just tries to slash at me with her fingernails when I get near her. At the rate she's going she's gonna need a straightjacket. Her ego couldn't accept her losing last season.

Rheneas: One thing I cannot stand is a whiner; Nakia's whining is like nails on a fucking chalkboard!

Zed: ... That girl needs help.


Sasha continued to try and get a grenade down the barrel f the tank turret; however, she was having some difficulty in achieving this desired result. As she continued to try (and fail) to win the challenge she heard two poofs.

"Not again." Thought Sasha as she glanced at her shoulders.

Standing on Sasha's shoulders were Sonic the Hedgehog and Porky Minch.

"Ok, is this another hallucination?" Asked Sasha quietly.

"Yes it is." Nodded Sonic. "We're here to help you with an inner turmoil your emotions are feeling."

"Help? Naw! I'm just here to screw with her because I'm bored." Sneered Porky.

"Ah Porky, you were always my most hated character in all of video gaming; what you did in Mother 3 is unforgivable." Growled Sasha.

"I was bored." Shrugged Porky. "Destroying the world, traumatising people and genetically mutating the animals sounded like some quality entertainment."

Sasha was silent before she plucked porky up, threw him to the ground and stomped on him . He disappeared in a puff of smoke.

"Ok, now that the little brat is disposed of, what did you want to talk to me about?" Asked Sasha to Sonic.

"Well, you've got a lot on your mind. Eddie was eliminated yesterday thanks to Lankston. I know what you're thinking Sasha, don't do it, don't try and get him back, you're better than that." Sad Sonic gently.

"I know ... I want to sympathise with him, but he was intending to use me just like Kim did." Replied Sasha as she fired another grenade which missed the tank turret.

"Well maybe he has reasons; he is not like Kim, in fact quite the opposite. Trust in what you can't see Sasha, follow me and I'll set you free. I recommend that you have a heart to heart with him at some point. But stand your ground, he's a stubborn guy." Suggested Sonic.

"How do you know he's nice?" Asked Sasha.

"I'm a representation of your subconscious, I know what you know. You know deep down he's not a bad guy, so I know it too."Stated Sonic. "Think about what I've told you, ok?"

"Ok." Agreed Sasha. "And are you gonna ask Amy out sometime?"

Sonic blushed and stammered before quickly poofing away.

"... Boys." Giggled Sasha quietly as she prepared to fire another grenade.

Before Sasha was able to fire another grenade VayVay launched one which went right down the tank turret and exploded. Quana sounded the air horn as smoke exited the turret nozzle.

"And VayVay scores a point for Team Past!" Announced Quana.

VayVay cheered as did Yannis and Opal.

"So far Team Future and Team Past both have a point; if one of them wins the next challenge we'll have our winner, but if Team Present wins the next challenge then we'll go to the tie breaker." Announced Spider. "Ok everyone, follow me and Quana to the Future themed challenge."


Confessional: Those video game hallucinations defy logic and reason ... and that's why everyone loves them!

Sasha: I'm starting to wonder if I need to see a psychiatrist due to these frequent hallucinations, but they do often help me with my problems. I'll have to be careful about how I confront Lankston though, I don't want to make him mad. If only my social skills were a bit better.

Rheneas: It's all up to Zed now; I hope he can manage whatever the future challenge is, my stay on this show might depend on it. I wonder who will be chosen to compete in the tie breaker if it comes down to that' hopefully me since, as people have said, I'm the strongest.

Zed: My team is relying on me ... I sure am feeling the pressure. I hope I don't let them down.

Opal: I feel bad that I have to compete against Zed for immunity. I won't throw the, hahaha, challenge though. Hopefully he'll bring his A-game.


In the Interns Cabin Carlton was walking up to Wallace's door; after a moment of hesitation he knocked on it.

"Come in!" Called Wallace from inside the room.

Carlton opened the door and entered Wallace's room; tools and machinery were lying al around and several posters of classic and modern evil villains such as Dick Dastardly and Discord. Wallace was currently working on his Hacker Tether, most likely upgrading it. Wallace looked up and gave a wave.

"Hey Carlton, what can I do you for?" Asked Wallace. "If it's a weapon, a jetpack or a missile launching robot chicken then you've come to the right guy."

"Actually Wallace ... I was wondering if I could request you to invent something for me." Said Carlton nervously. "And sorry, but it isn't an evil invention."

"I see ... what is it that you want?" Inquired Wallace. "And as a rule, it cannot be pink."

"That's fine. You see ... I was wondering if you could ... invent a cure for Panophobia for me." Said Carlton quietly.

"Ah, so you've finally decided to stop being a coward and become a macho guy? A terrific idea." Nodded Wallace. "It might take a few days for me to have it ready due to having to figure out a formula, get the ingredients for it and having to test it. In short, it'll take a bit of time to make it, but I can guarantee I'll get it done."

"Thank you Wallace." Said Carlton politely.

"What's with this sudden desire to be fearless anyway?" Asked Wallace curiously.

"Well ... I kinda like Fifi ... a lot." Admitted Carton."And I want her to like me ... and to tell her that I like her, but I'm too scared to approach her. I figured I might have a chance if I was fearless."

"Understandable." Nodded Wallace before adding. "So ... do you know anything about girls?"

"Well, I'm bad at approaching them, but I do know what attracts them." Nodded Carlton.

"Could you tell me?" Asked Wallace hopefully. "I'm trying to court Zita ... but it's not as easy as rocket science. All of my inventions don't really impress her; I even got her the Mona Lisa but she wasn't too impressed. I thought all girls loved a bad boy."

"Bad boys are overrated ... and scary. Why are you try so hard to be evil anyway? I think it goes a bit deeper than some childhood bullying." Inquired Carlton.

"Well ... I've always wanted to be something special. So many people live their whole lives being unknown and forgotten; I want to leave behind a legacy. If I can boost my noriety then people will know about me. I just want to be remembered." Admitted Wallace. "Admittedly I'm not really evil ... but if I want to be remembered and famous then I have to be."

"But you're such a genius; you invent things most people can only imagine in fiction. You'll do the world wonders!" Exclaimed Carlton. "Trust me, there are better ways to leave behind a legacy than being 'evil'."

"Maybe you're right ... so, how do I get Zita's attention?" Asked Wallace.

"I'd recommend being sweet and genuine with her; girls like sweet guys. Just be nice to her and come onto her very gradually and you'll succeed." Suggested Carlton.

"Hopefully it won't take too long; the show is nearly over and then everyone will be going home." Sighed Wallace. "A villain is love ... that'd be a good Broadway Musical."


Confessional: That reminds me of Megamind ... sorta.

Carlton: Me and Wallace are in the same boat; we both like girls but we don't have much longer to tell them how we feel. I hope the Panophobia cure doesn't take too long to be finished.

Wallace: I may have love issues ... but I'll put them aside for now. I've got a job to do; helping Carlton stop being a wimp and lose his kiss virginity ... was that a bad joke? It sounded better in my head.


The nine campers had been led towards the final challenge; three hovering pods had been set up and each of them had a cannon on them.

"Ok everyone, here is your next challenge. I assume all of you have played Space Invaders, right?" Asked Spider.

"What's space invaders?" Asked Zed.

"It's basically a game where you shoot alien ships out of the sky." Stated Sasha.

"The final challenge is going to be a game of space invaders." Continued Spider. "Holographic aliens are going to appear above you and the three campers competing in the challenge will shoot at them with their light cannons. Whoever shoots the most aliens in two minutes will be the winner. The pods are driven using a joystick and a second joystick controls the turret, a button on that joystick fires it. This challenge isn't so much difficult as it is frantic."

"Lankston, Opal and Zed, you're up. Once we sound the air horn the challenge will begin and the aliens will appear." Stated Quana.

"This shouldn't be too hard, I've played space invaders a few times before." Said Lankston confidently.

"I prefer to count my chickens after they hatch." Said Zed as he, Opa and Lankston made their way over to their pods.


Confessional: Some sayings are mundane made awesome.

Zed: I've never really used a joystick before, but it shouldn't be too hard; at the very least it'll be fun to try something new.

Lankston: With opponents like opal and Zed I like my chances with this challenge; I shouldn't presume, but I think I've got this.

Yannis: (He holds up a piece of paper which says, 'Why does everybody associate alien invasions with the future? There's no proof any aliens have any interest in invading us.')


Spider sounded the air-horn to start the challenge while Quana pressed a button on her remote; instantly a number of colourful holographic space invaders appeared above everyone.

Lankston immediately went on the offensive and began shooting at the aliens; every time he hit one of them they would disappear in a puff of light. Lankston seemed to be controlling his pod very well which was more than what could be said for Zed.

Zeds was having difficulty controlling his pod and firing at the same time; he was going in all sorts of erratic directions. He fired his cannon a few times and managed to hit some of the aliens but was still having a bit of trouble due to how uncontrollable and fast it was.

Opal was having a great time in the challenge; she wasn't doing the best but she was having fun. She blasted her cannon rapidly and was spamming the aliens with light blasts and quickly racked up her score.

While the three participating campers shot at the aliens the other six campers stood off to the side watching the challenge.

"I think it's clear that Team Present won't be tying up the score." Noted Rheneas.

"That's fine by me, immunity would be very much appreciated." Said Mac cheerfully.

"You know, you could be a little more sympathetic." Said Rheneas flatly.

"Sorry, I'm just hoping that I'll win today due to how poorly I did yesterday." Explained Max. "At the rate this challenge is going I think Lankston is going to win. He may not be very strong, but he sure does have a few talents."

"I hope Zed wins this; if he doesn't there's a good chance I might be getting the boot." Gulped Winnie.

Yannis gave Winnie a comforting squeeze on the shoulder to which she smiled in appreciation.

"Don't worry Winnie, I'm not going to vote you off." Assured VayVay. "I haven't quite reached a decision yet ... mainly because the challenge isn't over."

"It will be soon though; there's only thirty seconds to go." Noted Sasha.

"This is gonna be between Lankston and Opal." Said VayVay as she watched the challenge. "I personally have my money on Lankston even though I'd much prefer it if Opal won, since she's on my team and all."

The campers watched the challenge as the seconds ticked down; Zed, Lankston and Opal continued to blast the aliens until soon enough it was the end of the challenge.

"Ok you three, step out of your vehicles because the challenge is over." Announced Quana.

The three did so and walked over to hear who had won.

"Ok, time to announce the winner of this challenge." Said Spider as he took out what looked like a PDA to view the scores. "Sorry to say it, but in third place was Zed who shot down a total of seventeen aliens. This means Team Present does not win immunity."

"Sorry guys." Apologized Zed.

"Don't worry about it." Assured Rheneas.

"Yeah, it's alright." Agreed Winnie.

"Opal shot down a total of sixty three aliens." Continued Spider. "And Lankston shot down a total of...

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

One hundred and four. That means that with two wins out of three, Team Future are today's winners! Lankston, Max and Sasha win immunity from tonight's vote."

The three winners cheered upon hearing this.

"As for the rest of you, one of you is going to be voted off in a few hours. You have the rest of the day to decide who it will be. Until the Bonfire Ceremony you are free to do as you please." Stated Quana.

The nine campers dispersed to hang out and think about who they were going to vote off.


Confessional: Nine minus one equals eight.

Lankston: And so everything has gone according to plan. I have four votes guaranteed to be on my side, I just need to convince somebody else to vote with me and then from then on the game will be in my control. But who should I vote out? Hmm...

Rheneas: I'm pretty certain that I'm a target tonight; hopefully Lankston can help me out here. But if I am eliminated I'll be fine with it, I've had a good game. Still, if he wants me to vote for somebody I will, it may be my only chance at staying.

Opal: After the challenge ended I gathered Zed, Winnie and Yannis; I was going to, hahaha, pitch the idea of an alliance between the four of us. It seemed like a pretty good idea.


Opal, Winnie, Yannis and Zed were gathered inside the Loser Cabin.

"Ok everyone, I'm guessing you are wondering why I called you here, right?" Asked Opal.

Yannis nodded.

"Kind of." Nodded Winnie.

"Well, I've called you here because I want to pitch an idea to you. I think the four of us should, hahaha, start an alliance." Explained Opal. "We're all the only couples left in the game and I'm sure we don't want to be separated from our loves, hahaha, one. If we vote together we could keep our relationships going strong ... and get further in the game too."

"That sounds like a mighty good idea." Agreed Zed. "You can count on me m'lady."

Winnie looked thoughtful.

"What happens when and if it's only the four of us still in the game?" Inquired Winnie.

"Err..." Trailed off Opal since she hadn't thought about that

"I reckon we'd go head to head with each other." Stated Zed. "May the best couple win, right? I think it's a mighty good idea; we need to look out for each other."

"... Ok then, you can count me in." Saluted Winnie like a soldier.

"Hooray!" Cheered Opal. "What about you Yannis? Interested?"

Yannis nodded and shook hands with Opal.

"Then it's settled, from now on we are working together." Nodded Zed. "So, who should we vote for tonight?"

"How about Rheneas?" Suggested Winnie. "Max is immune and he's the next strongest, I think he's the clear choice.

Yannis nodded in agreement.

Zed and Opal glanced at each other and nodded.

"Fine by us." Nodded Opal.


Confessional: It's a foursome! ... You know, because it's an alliance with four people in it. Get your heads out of the gutter!

Winnie: Four votes is a good amount ...but it's not the majority. I think that I need to get VayVay on board with us. I'm not sure if she can join since Paul isn't here, but I'm sure I can rely on her. Maybe we could form a side alliance sometime.

Yannis: (He blinks and holds up a piece of paper which says 'I didn't know Opal was serious enough to be strategic.')

Zed: It's like I've said all along, Opal is a mighty smart girl. She may be bouncy and silly sometimes, but she has got a lot of great ideas.


Rheneas and Lankston had met up a short distance outside of camp to discuss that nights vote.

"Ok Lankston, I think you should know that I'm a target tonight. We're in an alliance of three ... but three is not a majority of nine. Do you think you could get anyone else on our side?" Asked Rheneas hopefully.

"I'm confident that I can." Nodded Lankston. "What I lack in strength I more than make up for in brainpower and persuasiveness. I think I can get Sasha and VayVay on our side."

"Are you sure? I thought you didn't like Sasha." Blinked Rheneas.

"I never said that I did." Stated Lankston. "I may dislike her, but she's just lost Eddie, I think she'll be passive enough for me to get her to agree to vote for who I want gone."

"So, who are we voting for tonight?" Asked Rheneas.

"Zed." Replied Lankston promptly.

"Why him?" Asked Rheneas.

"He's the strongest person besides you and he's the thing keeping Opal stable; without him she'll be weakened and won't be a threat." Explained Lankston.

"That's pretty mean." Frowned Rheneas.

"Hey, if you'd rather be voted off and leave Tabitha by herself then be my guest." Shrugged Lankston.

"... Fine, but splitting up the couples makes me feel like a jerk." Sighed Rheneas.

"It's just life; besides, it's only a temporary separation." Stated Lankston. "Anyway, I'm gonna go and try to get VayVay and Sasha on our side. I'll see you at the ceremony."

Lankston left back towards camp while Rheneas leaned against a tree.

"Why does strategy have to be harsh?" Asked Rheneas out loud.


Confessional: Because it has the syllable 'rat' it in.

Lankston: Zed was the clear choice; Opal is no real threat and Winnie is a distant second to Zed; plus, if I voted her off then Yannis might be harder to sway to my side further down the line if he found out about it. This is how the game should be played; harsh and effective strategy, not with emotional attacking and psychoticness like Kim did.

Rheneas: I hope Opal won't be too sad. This feels wrong ... but it is just a game I suppose. Regardless, I don't want to become Lankston's puppet ... but I'll go along with it this time since I'll likely be voted off if I don't.


Sasha was walking around in the woods looking for the Idols; after seeing Yannis play his Idol at the challenge she knew it would be in her best interests to find one herself; after all, there was every chance that some of the others had already found idols. Spider had said earlier that they were still up for grabs, but since then there was a possibility at least one had been found.

"Where could those idols be?" Asked Sasha to herself. "Russell Hantz found Idols easily on survivor ... so why can't I find any here?"

Sasha walked onwards while keeping an eye out for any of the idols; she looked into holes in trees and in logs on the ground but her search came up empty. Soon enough she saw the bear cave a short distance away.

"I wonder if one of them is in there?" Pondered Sasha.

"Hi Sasha." Greeted Max as he walked up; he wasn't wearing his robot suit. "What are you doing out here?"

"I'm looking for the Idols ... without much success, what about you?" Replied Sasha.

"Exactly the same as you." Admitted Max. "These Idols are harder to find than a four leafed clover."

"I could use one of those; maybe then I'd be lucky enough to find an idol." Mused Sasha. "You did great in the challenge today; that robot suit is really something."

"Thanks, I made it myself. Iron Man has always been my favourite fictional hero; it was my inspiration for the design." Replied Max. "I think I'll stand a really good chance at winning future challenges with it ... provided that it's a physical challenge, it won't help with stuff like an eating challenge."

"Well I think you're set to make it far ... but just to warn you, you might make yourself a bit of a target if you use that suit." Cautioned Sasha.

"I know; it's a double bladed sword ... metaphorically speaking." Agreed Max. "But I feel confident that I can go on an immunity run; I hope it doesn't sound big headed, but considering I have a robot suit I'd say it's justifiable."

"How did you make it anyway?" Asked Sasha curiously. "I would have thought that it'd take more than just one night of work."

"I've always been a bit of an overachiever at electronics and robotics, it just sorta comes naturally for me." Explained Max. "It's simple a matter of having the tool, material components and technological knowhow to put it together. Anyone with as much robotic skill as me could have done it."

"So how did you manage to make it create balls of energy?" Inquired Sasha.

"Let's just say the explanation features complicated science words over ten syllables long." Stated Max.

"Never mind then." Said Sasha before changing the subject. "So, good luck in the challenge tomorrow."

"Same to you." Nodded Max as he turned and left to look for the idols elsewhere.

After Max was gone Sasha approached the bear cave; there was no sign of the bear. Sasha entered the cave and looked around; the cave was mostly bare; however, in one of the corners of the cave was an Idol. Sasha grinned and quickly ran over to grab it. As she picked it up she saw that it was the Raven Idol.

"Woohoo!" Cheered Sasha in a way similar to Mario. "So, if I recall correctly the Raven Idol will allow me to save someone from getting voted off ... but it won't work on me. I suppose I could do the same with the immunity alphabet idol, wherever it is. Hmm ... I wonder who I should save and when I should use it."


Confessional: Idol get!

Max: I was in those woods until thirty minutes before the bonfire ceremony and I didn't find a single idol ... at least I know where they aren't. I bet I wasn't anywhere near any of them anyway.

Sasha: If only I had found this Idol yesterday ... hmm, I wonder who I will use this on, because I'm not sure. I guess I'd have to see who people are voting for and make my choice based on that. But I won't be using it tonight, I'll keep it until it is most advantageous for me to use it.


VayVay was sitting in the Mess Hall drawing a picture; it was a sort of abstract colourful mass of colour that would be great fun to interpret if you were an art enthusiast. As she worked on her picture Lankston approached her.

"Good evening VayVay." Greeted Lankston. "I'm here to give you a suggestion as to who you should vote for tonight."

"Who do you have in mind?" Inquired VayVay. "If it's Winnie I'm afraid I'll have to say no."

"Don't worry, it's not Winnie. I was going to suggest that you vote for Zed." Stated Lankston.

"Ok ... any reason why?" Asked VayVay.

"He's strong, kind and is friends with pretty much everyone; he's a big threat and voting him off would definitely be a good idea. I've already got some others voting for him, can I rely on your vote?" Asked Lankston.

"... I'll think about it." Replied VayVay uncertainly.

"That's all I can ask of you." Nodded Lankston as he turned and left the Mess Hall.


Confessional: That was short and simple.

Lankston: This game is as easy as breathing, I really think that I can make it to the finals using nothing more than my brain; I hardly need solo immunity.

VayVay: Maybe I will vote for Zed, he's a nice guy ... but like Lankston said, he's a threateningly threatening threat... I'll still feel bad about it though.


Two minutes after Lankston was gone Winnie entered the Mess Hall and approached VayVay.

"Hello VayVay, can I ask you something?" Began Winnie.

"Sure, what's on your mind?" Nodded VayVay.

"I was wondering if you could vote for a certain someone tonight." Requested Winnie. "You see, I've got in an alliance with Opal, Zed and Yannis and I'd like to have you on board to vote with us tonight. We're voting for Rheneas, can we rely on you?"

VayVay blinked, this wasn't how she expected her evening to be.

"Err ... I'll think about it." Said VayVay uncertainly.

"Thanks VayVay, you're the best." Smiled Winnie. "If you vote with us I think I could get you a place in our alliance. Cheerio!"

Winnie left the Mess Hall while VayVay sighed to herself.

"... It's not fun being the swing vote." Lamented VayVay.


Confessional: And for the second time eight will remain.

Rheneas: I vote for Zed, voting for him is my best chance of surviving.

Winnie: Rheneas gets my vote; I think this is going to be quite a non-dramatic and light hearted ceremony.

Lankston: I vote for Zed as I've said before; he's the biggest threat to me at the moment.

Zed: I vote Rheneas.

VayVay: I have decided … that I will vote for Zed. There are two reasons behind it. One is that fi I did join the alliance I'd be at the bottom of the hierarchy … and Rheneas voted to keep Paul in back on day fifteen and I'm gonna repay the favour tonight. A good deed never goes unrewarded.

Sasha: I vote for Yannis … but I know he isn't getting voted off. This is just a way of getting the confrontation with Lankston started, that way I can get some answers out of him.


The nine teens sat on stumps around the Bonfire ceremony area; night had fallen and the stars were out. The campers didn't have to wait long before Barney arrived with a tray of eight Golden Letters. He set the tray down on the oil drum and turned to face the campers.

"Welcome back everyone; today sure was a challenge for the age's right? Not only that, but I've noticed that a number of alliances are forming … I predict this will shake up the game a bit yaaar." Stated Barney.

Barney was silent for a moment.

"Opal, do you think that you are in any danger tonight?" Asked Barney.

"I don't think so, I haven't heard anyone mentioning wanting to vote me out. I've got, hahaha, five votes on my side so I think I'm safe." Replied Opal.

"I see." Nodded Barney. "Lankston, do you have any idea of how things are going to end up?"

"I think I have a general idea." Nodded Lankston. "I know that I'm safe, but not everyone has that luxury tonight. I've got five votes on my side though, so I think I have a good idea of who is going."

"Hang on … Opal said she had five. Five plus five is ten … yet there are nine of you yaaar … you both must have spoken to someone." Realized Barney. "Somebody here is the swing vote. Anyone care to own up?"

There was silence for a moment before VayVay raised her hand.

"Lankston came to me asking me to vote for Zed and Winnie came to me asking me to vote for Rheneas. It was a hard choice but I believe I made the right decision." Stated VayVay. "Let's just say I'm repaying a favour from a while ago."

"Well, it looks like it's between Zed and Rheneas then." Noted Barney. "We'll soon see who is safe … starting now."

Barney picked up three golden letters; an X, N and A.

"If you have the Immunity Alphabet Idol, the Uzuri Idol or the Raven Idol then now is the time to play them yaaar." Stated Barney.

Everyone remained silent.

"The first golden letters go to our immunity winners Max, Lankston and Sasha." Stated Barney as he tossed golden letters to the three safe campers. "Also safe tonight are…"

"Winnie"

"Opal"

"VayVay"

"Yannis"

Rheneas and Zed were left without a golden letter and both of them looked very nervous. Barney picked up the final golden letter, a letter W, and continued.

"Rheneas, Zed … one of you is about to be voted out and place ninth." Stated Barney. "I can now reveal that the final golden letter goes to

Neither of you because there was a tie yaaar."

Everyone was very surprised to hear this, Lankston was especially stunned.

"Each of you got four votes and someone else voted for Yannis." Explained Barney.

"Who cast the stray vote?" Asked VayVay curiously.

"I did." Said Sasha. "It has nothing to do with Yannis at all, I just have my reasons."

"Well then, since there was a tie … it's time to bring out the wheel of tie breakers." Said Barney cheerfully as he quickly jogged to a nearby pile of logs and pulled out a flashy wheel device from behind it. "I take it that none of you read this part of the rulebook. While before the merge ties were broken by someone from another team … this time there are no teams so we're going to have a mini challenge to see who goes and who stays."

Everyone was silent as Barney gave the wheel a spin; after it finished spinning a plastic ball came out of the machine. Barney picked it up and opened it to read the paper inside of it.

"Ok Rheneas and Zed … your tie breaker challenge is a miniature trivia quiz." Explained Barney. "I am going to ask you five questions about events that have happened in this game; the person with the most correct after five will stay in the game. If there is a tie in the case of you both being unable to answer a question we will move on to sudden death where the first person to incorrectly answer a question will be out yaaar."

Rheneas and Zed nodded in understanding.

"Question one." Began Barney. "Who got their skirt ripped off in the kart racing challenge?"

"Jill." Answered Rheneas instantly. "She told me and the other team Everest members about it after we were out of the race."

"Correct." Nodded Barney.

There was a moment of silence.

"Question two … name one of the foods that Team Savannah prepared in the cooking challenge."

Rheneas and Zed were silent for a moment before Zed spoke up.

"Sushi." Answered Zed confidently.

"Correct; both of you have one correct answer and three questions remain." Stated Barney

There was a moment of silence.

"Question three … which sword was the real one in the darkness challenge? It was the Same for all teams yaaar." Stated Barney.

"The one in the knight bust's hand." Answered Zed. "Sasha said she knew because it was from something called Professor Layton."

"Correct." Said Barney before speaking seriously. "Just so warn you Rheneas, if Zed answers the next question correctly before you do … then you are eliminated."

Rheneas gulped as he started to sweat nervously.

"Question four, what type of beer is Gordon's favourite?" Asked Barney.

Zed was silent as he didn't know while Rheneas decided to take a gamble.

"I'm guessing that he doesn't have a favourite due to being such an alcoholic." Said Rheneas while trying to keep calm.

"… Correct." Nodded Barney. "It has come down to the final question. Whoever answers this correctly will stay in the game."

There was a moment of silence.

"Question five … which of these things does Jill like more; the Daleks or Robocop?" Asked Barney.

Zed and Rheneas were silent; Zed has no idea what either of those things were and Rheneas had no idea what the correct answer would be. After ten seconds of silence Rheneas spoke up.

"Err … I'm gonna guess she likes Robocop more." Guessed Rheneas.

"Rheneas, if you are wrong then we will move onto sudden death since the answer would then be obvious." Warned Barney. "I can confirm that you are…

Correct; Rheneas is safe and Zed is out."

Rheneas let out a huge sigh of relief of Barney passed him the final golden letter while Zed let out a small sigh.

"Sorry Zed; you've played a good game … but this is the end of the contest for you yaaar." Said Barney apologetically.

Zed was silent for a moment before he smiled.

"No worries, I've had a wonderful time. I made friends, I'm less naïve and I have a wonderful girlfriend. I'm content with my performance." Said Zed with a nod of acceptance.

"Zed … please don't go." Whispered Opal while sounding close to tears.

Zed approached Opal and gave her a big strong hug.

"Opal … I'm really gonna miss you. You are a truly special and wonderful girl, never think any different. I may be out of the game, but I have confidence that you can win this whole thing … and even if you get voted out, I'll be proud of you. I never expected to gain a lover in this contest … but I think meeting you is the best thing that ever happened to me." Said zed lovingly. "I've learnt a lot on this contest, but the thing I learnt the most was that you can't believe in everyone … but you can't lose sight of those that you love. Now, I want you to continue in this game for as long as you can … and to enjoy yourself. Can you do that?"

Opal was silent for a moment before she nodded.

"I'll make you proud." Nodded Opal.

"… I already am." Smiled Zed.

Opal and Zed embraced and shared one last passionate kiss; after holding it for ten or so seconds they parted.

"Goodbye everyone, I'll see you at the Playa whenever you are voted off. Farewell." Said Zed with a tip of his hat."

Zed calmly walked the Dock of Shame with his head held high and with no sadness about his loss. He boarded the Boat of Losers which then sped off into the night.

After Zed was gone the remaining eight campers turned to Barney.

"And so Zed has been eliminated despite being in an alliance of four; it just goes to show that you are never truly safe yaaar … you may go." Said Barney dramatically.

Barney picked up the empty tray and left while the remaining eight campers left back to camp to go to bed.


Confessional: That was THE most dramatic ceremony ever!

Winnie: All of the alliance voted together … so VayVay must have voted for Zed. I'm not mad at her … but I'd like to know why she did this because at the moment I'm a sad kitty … but not as much as Opal is gonna be.

Lankston: Sasha didn't vote with me and my strongest ally was nearly voted out. Granted things still turned out alright … but this could have easily doomed me. I'm gonna get an answer out of her one way or another.


Sasha and Lankston were in the main room of the champions cabin; Max had gone to the loser cabin to make some improvements to his robot suit which left the two teens alone.

"Ok Sasha, I want an answer; why did you not vote with me? Remember earlier today when I said I'd help you find out who voted out Eddie? You said you would and you went back on your word!" Frowned Lankston.

"Well I've got a question for you; why say you'll help me find out who got Eddie voted out when it was you who did it." Replied Sasha calmly. "VayVay and Winnie told me that it was your idea to vote Eddie out. You were planning on manipulating me just like Kim had done!"

Lankston looked stunned for a moment before composing himself.

"So? It's just a game." Shrugged Lankston. "I wouldn't have done what Kim did, but I did intend to have you work for me. Is wanting to win the game so wrong?"

"No, but your attitude is. You're rude, cynical, you don't care about anyone, you're selfish and you don't seem to care about anyone else's emotions. And yet … I want to know why; why are you like this?" Asked Sasha softly.

"That is none of your business!" Snapped Lankston.

"Does that mean you don't have a reason and that you're just a cynical and obnoxious jerk? You're a mean person and you have an ego that you cannot back up. Why do you never treat anyone with respect?" Frowned Sasha. "Do you even treat your parents with respect?

Sasha seemed to have unintentionally hit a nerve as Lankston's expression became somewhat frightening.

"Why the hell should I give a damn about other people if none of them, not even my parents, give a damn about me?!" Roared Lankston. "All my life I've been neglected and treated like I'm useless and unnecessary because I'm weak; nobody cares about me, nobody! Why should I care about people who judge me before they even know me?!"

Sasha was silent as Lankston seethed.

"Your … your parents neglect you?" Whispered Sasha quietly.

"… I've said enough to you." Said Lankston as he turned to leave.

Before Lankston could leave Sasha gently grabbed him by one of his arms.

"Lankston, is this the reason you are so cynical? Do you really have no friends?" Asked Sasha gently. "Lankston … if you want someone to speak to … I'll listen."

Lankston was silent before he sighed and sat down on the sofa.

"I may as well tell you … but only because you won't stop badgering me if I don't." Stated Lankston. "Yes, my parents don't give a flying fuck about me. They are both sporty and pride themselves on being strong … but I have muscle deficiencies and I'm natural abysmal at sports. They never do anything for me, they just ignore me and act as though I don't even exist; they actually pretend they don't have a son, I've overheard them telling their gym buddies that I'm just fostered and that I'm not biological theirs … hearing that hurts more than anything.2

Lankston was silent as a tear exited his eye.

"They never hit me or anything like what Tabitha's parents do … but they never give me any attention. I have to cook my own meals, get to school myself, get my own stuff … I'm surprised they haven't kicked me out yet. And I'm pretty sure that if I died they'd just carry on with their lives without so much as blinking."

"How can you be sure?" Gaped Sasha.

"… I've never told anybody this … but I want to, no … need to get this off my chest." Said Lankston with a look of vulnerability.

Lankston was silent and Sasha beckoned for him to continue.

"When I was five I got bitten by a poisonous spider, one that had gotten lose from one of our neighbours who has a collection of poisonous pet spiders. I told them the situation and that I needed to get to hospital … they ignored me and told me to wait until the newest episode of Baywatch was over. By the time they got me to hospital it was nearly too late … I nearly died, and yet they didn't even bat an eyelash. I've been deathly afraid of spiders ever since then."

Sasha's brownish skin had gone a little paler after hearing this.

"I auditioned for Total Drama because I thought that if I win this game then they'll finally respect me; they said I couldn't ever win this game because I have no muscle … but if I win with just my brainpower then they'll have to respect me. Truth be told I lost on purpose early on so that I could return and bypass a lot of the game. I just want my parents to love me, nothing more. Nina was the first person to like me for me and … I liked her a lot. She was taken from me before I could tell her that I love her … I guess I'm destined to by alone." Sighed Lankston.

Lankston's voice was cracking but he managed to keep himself together.

"So … I bet you judge me too. Do you think I'm a pathetic toothpick? Do you think I'm a waste of oxygen because I can't play football or even throw a ball? Do you think … I'm a failed investment?" Asked Lankston in a hauntingly emotionless voice.

Sasha was silent for a moment before she gave Lankston a big hug. Lankston looked surprised as this wasn't the reaction that he had been expecting.

"Lankston … I do not hold any ill feeling to you. I may have been annoyed before … but after all this … I totally understand why you did it. You're better than your parents think you are. I can't say I agree with separating the couples … but you're a smart guy indeed." Said Sasha gently. "And … if you want … I'll be your friend; a lack of friends is a fate I wouldn't wish on anyone."

Lankston was silent for a moment before he managed to smile.

"Thank you Sasha … I am sorry I got Eddie out; it was nothing personal. I was angry that you voted off Nina … but I never hated you." Said Lankston apologetically. "I'm still going to be playing the game … but I'll be glad to have you as a friend. You don't have to join me if you don't want to."

"You're right, I don't want to." Nodded Sasha. "But I wish you the best of luck, both in this game and in your life after it."

"Much appreciated." Nodded Lankston. "But just so we're clear … you can't tell any of the others what I have told you, ok? I don't want to be pitied."

"My lips are sealed." Promised Sasha.


Confessional: Sop, one person has abusive parents and one person has neglective parents … interesting.

Sasha: I didn't expect to hear any of that … but this puts Lankston is a new light for me. I won't forgive him … because there is nothing that needs to be forgiven; consider him my friend. His parents should be ashamed of themselves, they may be physically fit, but they are not 'fit' to be parents.

Lankston: It feels nice having a real friend … but I cannot let this distract me from my goal, this is still my game to win. (Lankston pauses and smiles). But … maybe when we're not worrying about vote offs or challenges we can just hang out and be social; I could do with more interaction.


Spider and Quana stood on the Dock of Shame to give the outro.

"And so Zed is out of the game and another couple is separated. Not only that, but we've learnt that Lankston has abusive parents, albeit not in the same way as Tabitha, but it is still bad. This has been quite an eventful episode." Murmured Spider.

"We've only got eight campers left and each of them wants the prize, but only one of them can win it. It's gonna be a tough race to the finish of the competition." Stated Quana.

"So, will Opal be ok without Zed? Will Lankston continue his strategy but maybe add some niceness? Will Sasha have another hallucination? How will VayVay explain to Winnie that she didn't vote with her? And who will be the next person voted out?" Asked Spider Rhetorically.

"Find out next time on Total Drama Letterz!" Exclaimed Quana.


Votes

Lankston: Zed

Max: Zed

Opal: Rheneas

Rheneas: Zed

Sasha: Yannis

VayVay: Zed

Winnie: Rheneas

Yannis: Rheneas

Zed: Rheneas

Zed: 4

Rheneas: 4

Yannis: 1


Remaining Campers: Lankston, Max, Opal, Rheneas, Sasha, VayVay, Winnie, Yannis


Voted Off: Gordon, Lankston (1), Helen, Quarla, Fripp, Nina (1), Alice, Ulric, Bishop, Xyly, Imanda, Yannis (1), Donny, Max (1), Tyson, Jill, Cherry, Paul, Kim, Nina (2), Eddie, Zed


Zed was one of my favourite characters; he was a kind and honest country boy who always kept a cool head and was the voice of reason and one of the most genuinely nice characters. I loved writing for him and his relationship with Opal. Sadly it is time to say goodbye to him now, but we'll see him again very soon.


Next Time: It's the fourth episode of Drama Gone Tween and Jimmy and Eleanor will be interviewing Paul, Kim, Nina, Eddie and Zed.