Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama.
Note: ...These month long waits really are becoming a bad habit of mine aren't they? I guess all I can say is life just happens, along with all assorted incidents and anecdotes within. It was a pretty busy Christmas this year. I can say that much! Also, ironically, one of the least crazy on the-day ones as well? Point is, it was good and stuff beforehand and after(hand?) kept me from really having time to dedicate to this massive story. But no worries, the chapter is here now, and a deadly confrontation is looming closer…
Watch out for that-[BAM]
The moon shone brightly over Anatat Island, the waves surrounding it gentle and soft. The night was warm and cloudless, but had a light breeze blowing along. Winnie and Xaria stood by some of the ruins, ready to give the recap. Xaria sipped from a mug of coffee.
"Ah, gotta love sweet, sweet espresso." Said Xaria, sounding content.
"Isn't coffee more bitter than sweet?" Asked Winnie.
"It keeps me awake for these late recaps, so I don't care what it tastes like." Shrugged Xaria. "I'm just glad we're past the halfway point in both episode and player counts. About damn time."
"I guess, in the end, all good things must come to an end." Said Winnie with a sad sigh.
"...What the fuck does that have to do with this show?" Replied Xaria raising an eyebrow.
In response to this Winnie laughed, before starting off the recap.
"Last time on Total Drama Letter Starz the campers tried to make the most of their new teams now that they had free time to be apart of them. Some had more to work with than others. On the Golden Hawks Bishop and Eddie got into an argument, but still seem to be working together. I mean, Bishop is the reason Eddie is still here. Also, Helen made a plea to Quana to not vote for her due to being the weakest at challenges. And while some like Imanda thought of the vote even with berries thrown at them, Rheneas hung out with the interns, arguing with Kim and assisting Clyde and Steve. It wouldn't be TDL without interns popping up. Heehee!" Giggled Winnie.
"I'd say too bad some fans hate that happening, but sadly I do not care." Remarked Xaria. "Meanwhile on the Bronze Tigers Sasha came to the epiphany that she does not want to beat the crap out of Kim, Alice criticised Yessica for voting off Wallace, Hector felt pretty in control and upon her arrival Uzuri felt ready for anything, given how she had managed to find all five super stars in one night. I applaud her for screwing up the twist so quickly."
"Chris was frustrated. Heehee! Meow!" Giggled Winnie. "The challenge was a maze...but with blindfolds. Oooo~! We saw complaining, we saw bumps, we saw Rheneas crash into a comical number of cacti, we saw Bishop and Opal complain the challenge was apparently boring...we even got to see Barney's 'Ninja Sense' as its finest! Meow! It came down to Eddie and Uzuri who had gotten separated from their teams and Eddie crossed the lines first. The Golden Hawks won once more, and that meant the Bronze Tigers had to vote! Oh, and Alice and Bishop got sent to Banishment Bay for the night."
"Hector wanted a simple Uzuri vote, and that meant Uzuri was safe because things are never simple these days. Indeed, after playing the orange and green stars, and with assistance from Barney, Uzuri sent Yessica out of the door. Why? Fuck if I know. I would've gone for Hector, but everybody has their own ideas." Shrugged Xaria. "Either way, we're down to thirteen. Like I said, half of these people are gone … really, they're the lucky ones."
Winnie just patiently smiled.
"So the merge is close and everybody left wants to make it there. Yep! But there is not a spot for everybody left. So, will Bishop get into a large scale fight with Alice on Banishment Bay? Will Eddie figure out that Uzuri has got all of the super stars? Will Opal ever act her age? Will Uzuri keep stepping her game up, or was it a one time thing? Is Sasha going to have another video game hallucination? Will Barney ever be quiet for a singe minute? Find out al this and more, maube, right now on Total Drama Letter Starz!"
"And while you're at it, count how many times something dumb happens. I kid you not, you'll be in the triple digits by the end of the episode." Added Xaria, sipping from her mug of coffee.
(Theme Song, I Wanna Be Famous)
(Banishment Bay)
Alice had tackled Bishop, sick of his attitude and finally deciding to take her hate of the rich boy to a physical level. The two crashed to the ground and in a matter of seconds were punching and scrapping at each other, rolling around and snarling. Alice grabbed her hands around Bishop's neck, strangling him and throttling him about. Bishop coughed and gagged, but retaliated with a punch to Alice's gut that knocked the breath out of her, followed by him uppercutting her off of him.
"Little rat." Hissed Bishop.
Alice was back on her feet in an instant, lunging at Bishop and sending them both to the ground once more. Rolling along the sand Alice repeatedly kneed Bishop in the gut while he pulled on her hair harshly. Both were yelling in anger and pain.
"You're such a spoiled fuck!" Screeched Alice.
"You're a wasteful wretch!" Spat Bishop.
Still exchanging kicks and punches and other attacks with full intent to hurt the two teens rolled along, a ball of fists and feet. It wasn't long until, battered and bruised, the two rolled to a statue. Bishop readied himself to punch Alice in the face, but she threw him off her. Grabbing a stone as he fell the rich young man threw it at Alice, hitting her in the forehead. With a cry of pain Alice slipped and fell backwards against the ancient statue with force. Alice groaned, trying to catch her breath. She scowled at Bishop in hatred, but his eyes were suddenly wide,
"Alice! Look out!" Yelled Bishop.
Bishop tackled Alice again and sent both of them flying off to the side. Alice shrieked a swear of protest, but a second later the statue fell over with a crash that sent sand and dust flying. Obviously, anything beneath it would have been crushed in an instant.
Bishop rolled off Alice and onto his back, taking a few deep breath and holding his chest in pain. Alice stared up at the sky, moaning a little as she clutched her sore thigh.
"...Let's call that one a draw..." Said Bishop after a time.
"...Yeah..." Agreed Alice, getting up to her feet and sitting on the fallen statue.
The two remained silent for a while longer.
"Um … your punching technique is getting good." Said Bishop, wincing. "Fuck, this is awkward."
"Why did you not let me get crushed?" Asked Alice. "Why the hell did you save me? To put me in your debt?"
Bishop looked affronted.
"We may argue and fight, but I most certainly do not want you dead." Said Bishop carefully.
"Pfft, could've fooled me. You'd just come dance on my grave." Grunted Alice. "That's what a 'poor person' deserves right?"
Alice turned away.
"...I am grateful. Just saying that right now." Said Alice quietly. "...But this changes nothing. I know I have many flaws and it was my own damn fault I lost last season. But you. You are by far the most selfish, rotten, horrid man I have ever met! I don't even know why we fight anymore or what started it, but I want it to stop! Nearly getting crushed, that's where I draw the line. Fine, you win. You're better than me! But you know what? You are not worth talking to ... you bring down everybody you are near … maybe I am a poor rat who'd not go far in life despite being not so much pushed as shoved to excel … but as least I'm not a cliché of a human being. Don't even talk to me. I am done!"
Alice left without another word, heading off into the forest. She started with a walk, and soon broke into a sprint. Bishop grumbled as he walked back to the fire, sitting down by it and warming himself up.
"She's giving up on going against me after that? I thought she was stronger than that." Muttered Bishop, holding his hands out a little towards the fire.
Bishop cast a glance at the fallen statue and flinched.
"...Perhaps it did go a touch too far. The women attacked me, but I did provoke her … whatever, it's too damn late for this. I'll deal with it in the morning." Decided Bishop. "A few hours of rest, and then a star hunt before the sun rises."
(Anatat Isle)
On the beach Uzuri and Nakia were setting up in sleeping bags, getting ready to settle down for the night. The dream invaders were set down between them and currently Uzuri was letting Nakia work on her hair. Nakia had a look of intense concentration on her face, but was very quiet. Eventually Uzuri broke the silence.
"I like what you're doing to my hair. Sounds curly." Noted Uzuri.
"Curls suit you, and I shan't hear a word against it!" Declared Nakia. "Oooh, people may think they know hair, but they don't live it! No!"
"Well, you're the expert." Giggled Uzuri.
"You're right, I am." Said Nakia with a smirk. "Tilt your head to the left."
Uzuri did as she was asked and the silence resumed. Soon enough, Uzuri spoke up again.
"You're being really quiet. Quiet for you." Noted Uzuri. "Whaddup?"
"Oh, I don't know … I guess I just feel a little unsure about things and this islands lacks any form of organisation and I TOTALLY HATE THIS SHOW!" Yelled Nakia, suddenly switching from calm to screaming. "I just want to go home! First class, all the way home!"
Nakia heaved a few breaths and stomped her feet a few times, all while never losing her careful focus on styling Uzuri's hair.
"What's wrong? You seemed happy the other day." Noted Uzuri after a few seconds had passed.
"Oh, I don't even know! I just wonder what the point of it all might be. Because, no matter how HARD I TRY there's just no way I can hit the reset button and not have TONS OF ENEMIES. Oh, I try, I TRY to be NICE and not a MEANIE! But it just won't be good enough WILL IT? No, I think NOT! The dirty looks and the avoiding of me really BRING A GIRL DOWN and just make me feel sad. At least at home I have my TEDDIES to talk to!" Yelled Nakia, her eye twitching and her breathing heavy yet still able to carefully style Uzuri's hair.
Uzuri was quiet as she wondered what to say next.
"Well, um … I can't lie, people do kind of not like you very much." Admitted Uzuri, tapping her fingers upon her knees. "I mean, the whole thing with the giant spider and the would-be pipe attack and the other stuff I can't recall off the top of my head that you certainly did … well, I can't really blame them, sorry."
Nakia stomped her foot, scowling again. After a bit more time of styling Uzuri's hair, her scowl slightly softened.
"I'm just as bad as Stanbear." Mumbled Nakia. "I can try and pretend all I want, but … it's official. I am worse than an evil teddy bear in your dreams. And he's NOT EVEN CUDDLY! I am, as a matter of fact, the worst."
Nakia sighed, silently continuing to work on Uzuri's hair.
"The others may not like you much … but I do." Said Uzuri, smiling. "I hope that means something to you."
Nakia considered this.
"...It'd mean more if you were worthy of the gold brush." Pouted Nakia. "...But, thank you. Thank you."
"You're welcome~!" Declared Uzuri. "Is my hair good now? I wanna use the dream invaders now!"
"You will wait and you will like it!" Exclaimed Nakia.
(Anatat Forest)
Quana listened closely, ready to hear what the plan was going to be. Before he started to talk about it, Chef Hatchet glanced around.
"Keep your voice low so the cameras nearby will not pick it up." Warned Chef Hatchet.
Quana nodded, leaning against a tree.
"So … what's the plan?" Asked Quana. "What's going down tonight?"
"Not tonight, but tomorrow night." Stated Chef Hatchet. "There isn't enough time tonight. Too risky."
After a quick surveillance of the area to ensure they were alone, Chef Hatchet began to explain the plan.
"It's not the worst of the stuff they have, that I know of at least, but the Intern Compound on this island is where contracts from previous seasons are kept. You know, the thing you signed before you got here both times? Anyway, I am distinctly certain some of them are written differently than others are." Explained Chef.
"...Like those who got recruited?" Asked Quana, a bad feeling in her mind.
"Exactly. What you need to do is get into the compound itself, find the file room and, without being seen, take photographs of the worst parts of the contracts, and how they differ from others. Make sure you get the names of the people who signed each one as well." Instructed Chef Hatchet. "I suspect you'll need to take pictures most of all of Kim, Nakia and Cherry's contracts, but any info is good info."
"Kim, Nakia and Cherry. Got it." Nodded Quana in determination. "So, you can't do this because you'd be seen too easily, right?"
"Exactly. I can't get near that room." Muttered Chef Hatchet.
"Wait, they know I'm friends with you...don't they?" Whispered Quana.
"True, but they will not be looking for you in the Compound. Leave something under your bedsheets to make it look like you're still there. I can arrange a little...camera glitch...that will start at 1AM and, I estimate, end around an hour or so later. But that's an estimate, so you'll need to be quick. You cannot get in through the front door, or the vent. What you're going to need to do is descend within the Pipe of Shame and crawl through it until you come cross a section of it that has a red vent. That section is beneath the compound. I'll leave a screwdriver near the Pipe of Shame for you to get in through that way. You should come up in close proximity to where you need to get to. At that point you can use the vent. Follow the sound of creaking. Once you've completed your objective, put everything back the way it was and get back down into the Pipe of Shame. Follow it back the way you came, and be back to your cabin by the time the cameras are back on. No matter what happens, you cannot be seen." Said Chef Hatchet, only grave seriousness in his tone. "For the love of God, do not be seen."
Quana nodded, considering all this. She cracked her knuckles, looking ready.
"I can do it. I may be a loudmouth, but … I can be deadly serious when I need to be." Assured Quana. "So, what would happen if, theoretically, I was seen? Like, in theory?"
Chef Hatchet gave Quana a look.
"In theory, I'd say your luck would turn terrible." Said Chef Hatchet simply.
Quana looked nervous, looking to the side for a moment.
"Yeah, uh, no further detail needed." Murmured Quana. "I can borrow Spider's camera again, so getting proof will not be an issue. But, can I ask a quick favour?"
"What kind of favour?" Asked Chef Hatchet gruffly. "Well, you're doing all this … I guess I can give you something, so long as it don't give you an unfair advantage in the contest."
"Can I have one of your bullet proof vests?" Asked Quana hopefully. "Like, as armour to wear under the rest of my clothes? If they know I am close to you, well … organised challenge accident? It'd be nice to have a little something to help me."
"I don't know what good it'd really do you as nobody is turning a gun on you … but you've done a good deal for me, so sure. I'll leave it with the screwdriver for you." Assured Chef Hatchet.
"Sweet. Thanks Cheffy." Smiled Quana. "So, uh … that arm. Who-?"
"We don't know. Blood samples told us utterly nothing." Said Chef uneasily. "Best we can figure is it belonged to a male of some big size. There was also the remnants of a tattoo, but too little was left to figure out what it was."
"...I see. Not gonna lie, I feel a bit scared." Admitted Quana. "Like, not horror movie scared, but scared as in 'oh crap, this is really happening' kind of scared."
Chef put a hand on Quana's shoulder.
"Only the foolish would be fearless." Assured Chef Hatchet.
Hearing this made Quana feel a bit better.
"So … how do you know how to cause the cameras to go down?" Asked Quana curiously.
"War taught me many skills." Smirked Chef Hatchet. "There's a lot of things no living person knows about me."
(The next morning)
Opal sat on the steps of her cabin, a sour look on her face. Every now and then she gagged a little. Shaking her head a bit she rose to her feet.
"What's going on? Am I really getting sick now of all times?" Asked Opal to herself. "The merge is close … and I am feeling icky and crappy. Not good. :(."
Opal lightly staggered towards the Mess Hall, lightly kicking open the door and soon getting herself a drink.
"Not the first time this has happened, though it's the first time it's lasted until breakfast. Maybe drink and food will make it better." Sighed Opal, knocking back a mug of milk.
Presently Opal was finishing off a nice breakfast of toast and eggs when Quana walked in, sitting beside her team mate.
"...Do you ever wonder if the chicken that laid the exact eggs we have for breakfast could be the same chicken we eat for dinner?" Asked Quana absently.
"Breakfast is where the philosophy happens. Would've been nice if we had pickles though. I want 'em." Chuckled Opal. "So, who lost?"
"I've seen everybody but Yessica, so that's our answer." Replied Quana. "She was nice and full of pep, but one step closer for me, you know?"
"And for Spider?" Giggled Opal, winking.
"Heh, well..." Smirked Quana. "But really, why do people assume I'd have to face Spider in the end? The odds of it are kinda low and, couple we may be, our plans might not always align. I'm not sure who I would want to face, but it's too early to call it anyway."
Opal shrugged, accepting this reason.
"So … think Alice and Bishop have killed each other yet?" Asked Quana, anxious poking at her eggs. "They argue a lot and, while I don't remember how it even started, they seem to have no intent to stop the 'war' they have going on … putting them both in a close proximity, banished on an island, it could get messy."
"Ah, let it continue. Either it'll blossom into something greater, or it'll keep people wanting to vote anybody else off because they are sooooooo loud." Said Opal cheerfully. "Pass the butter?"
"Sure." Said Quana, doing as Opal asked. "You ok? You look a tad pale."
"Just been a bit sick this morning." Admitted Opal. "Could be better, could be worse."
And without any warning, Opal puked on her breakfast. She winced from the acidic feel of the bile.
"Yeah … more worse than better." Groaned Opal, a hand holding her gut and the other holding her head. "And right as the merge looms. This is the opposite of fucking amazing. :(."
Quana helped Opal up, leading her out of the Mess Hall.
"Let's go see Spider, he might know what to do." Said Quana confidently.
"Why? Because he's gonna be a doctor, or because he used to be sick as a dog all the time?" Asked Opal, managing to weakly chuckle.
Quana paused for a moment, before shrugging.
"A little column A, a little column B. Either way, you benefit." Stated Quana. "C'mon, I saw him looking at some of the ruins. Not too far away."
"I might need to puke on the way." Warned Opal.
"So long as it's not on me, we'll get through this difficult time." Assured Quana.
(Confessional: Where's a sick bucket when you need one?)
Opal: I think I must have an allergy to something on these islands. Sunflowers make me sneeze a lot, but what makes me puke? Something in the air or the ground? Urrrrgh! (Opal throws up her arms). I wanna go back to bed, and sleep this off, :(. Pouting, engage. (Opal pouts)
At the beach, Helen stood in place nonplussed. Dully, she watched Barney swim around in the sea, his long hair flowing freely as he had removed his ninja mask.
"Come on in!" Called Barney.
"No." Said Helen flatly.
"Oh, can't you swim?" Asked Barney.
"Not very well." Admitted Helen. "I'd rather not work myself up to much. Besides, the sea is so unhygienic."
"Ok, suit yourself." Said Barney, going back to swimming around.
Helen soon shrugged, sitting on the sand and casually arranging rocks into neat, orderly lines. Soon enough Barney finished his swim and headed out of the sea, racking his knuckles.
"Ah, refreshing." Remarked Barney. "Perfect way to get my ninja groove going. I feel-ACK! AARRRGH!"
Helen looked up, rising to her feet and lightly running towards Barney.
"Are you ok?" Asked Helen. "You were being loud … then you screamed louder. What's going on?"
Barney hacked and gagged. Seconds later he coughed out a bee which flew away. Helen just stared after it.
"...If that bee stung you, it should be dead by now." Said Helen flatly. "So, you swallowed a bee? Uh … say anything, I guess?"
Barney responded with a rasping noise that did not resemble any known language. He winced, lightly putting a finger towards his throat. A moment later he mimed using a cup.
"There's water right there." Said Helen, shrugging.
Barney gave Helen a look, but seemed amused. Helen just shrugged again, walking with her friend towards the Mess Hall.
"I am torn." Admitted Helen. "On on hand I feel rather concerned for you … on the other hand, I can now hang out with you and enjoy silence at the same time. Hard to say if this is good or bad."
Barney just gave Helen a look.
"Oh come on, you make cheeky jokes all the time." Muttered Helen. "More to the point, I willingly told a joke, be happy."
To this Barney had no response, and not because of his current inability to speak, so he just smirked.
(Confessional: And then there was silence.)
Barney: (He makes a few unintelligible sounds, before pondering. He shrugs, leaving the confessional.)
Helen: I owe that bee some honey … I suspect my joke telling skills need work. Whatever.
"You're got that look on your face again." Noted Imanda.
She and Rheneas were sitting on a hilltop, looking up at the clouds. But Rheneas was distracted, looking away contemplatively.
"What look?" Asked Rheneas. "The good looking one? The confident one? The math class one?"
"...No. I mean the look you have when you think hard about something but have no answers for it." Stated Imanda. "Hmm … still thinking about Jimmy?"
"Yeah, I am. Fact is, something is very wrong here and nobody but Jimmy or Jennifer knows." Replied Rheneas. "Seriously, Spider said Jimmy broke two ribs...how did that even happen? Not to mention he's been getting worse over time. You saw the pain he looked to be in. And then we get to the stuff he said on his way out."
"Didn't Bishop tell him to do that though?" Reminded Imanda.
"Bishop seemed shocked to hear about it, and I do not think he was faking." Said Rheneas, tapping his chin.
"...So, you think, whatever is going on, Jennifer knows about it?" Asked Imanda curiously. "Those two were not a friendship I expected to see."
"Same. What do you reckon bought them together? And for that matter, what is it the two are hiding? Jennifer told me I cannot help … call me crazy, but it seemed she was implying I was forbidden to, not that I'd be unable to assist." Continued Rheneas, taking out his lighter and flicking it on and off. "But with Jimmy gone and Jennifer often doing stuff at the playa, I guess I'm gonna have to try and drop it."
Imanda patted Rheneas on the back.
"Don't worry, I'm sure Jimmy will be fine. Tabitha can watch out for him right? And if not her, there are plenty of staff at the Playa, and Eleanor too." Reminded Imanda. "Now, I have a question for you. Sly nerd, or cute moe?"
"...What the hell does that mean?" Asked Rheneas, raising an eyebrow.
"I have a feeling today might be the day Clyde asks me out!" Squeed Imanda. "He wants to meet me later today on the beach, after the challenge. Should I be sly, or cute?"
Rheneas considered this.
"Well, I don't know if you can be sly in any way except ironically, so I'd go with cute." Suggested Rheneas. "But if he wants to ask you out, why put on an act?"
Imanda nodded, considering these words.
"...You're right. Love just makes me so scrambled and silly." Giggled Imanda. "It could really work, so I feel hype! He will dip me under the moonlight."
"This isn't a story." Chuckled Rheneas. "If it was, nobody would read it."
"They so would." Insisted Imanda, laughing a little. "So, Bishop and Alice still aren't back...I talked to Helen about voting for Bishop and she said something to effect of 'ok'. Opal's feeling ill this morning, so I held off asking her for now."
"Good work so far." Said Rheneas, crossing his legs. "Yo, speaking of romance, something I wanted to ask you. About Kim."
"Rheneas, you scarlet man." Scolded Imanda.
Rheneas huffed while Imanda giggled, winking.
"Look, I've just been thinking a bit, alright. Kim and Steve had a little something going on, I hear. Then he did something and now Kim is more furious than ever before. She didn't say anything though … something about 'not ratting him out' … any theories about that?" Asked Rheneas curiously.
"I don't know." Admitted Imanda. "I mean, yeah, I guess I always felt kinda bad for Kim, even if a lot of what she said last season would apply to me, but I don't really know her at all, or Steve actually. I mainly gravitated towards Clyde. He might know though, so I'll ask him. What's got you invested in this? Jimmy I understand, but were you and Kim ever close at all?"
"I guess after I helped Tabitha, well, why not go another mile and help Kim and Nakia if I got the chance? But I'm not gonna neglect my game over it. I mean, it is five million." Said Rheneas, laying down on his back. "You could do, and feel, a lot of good with that kind of money."
"True, and I think the girl scouts are adding a 'win over two million dollars on a gameshow badge' in the fall, so that'd be perfect." Agreed Imanda.
"Can a scout leader even earn badges?" Asked Rheneas.
Imanda just smiled.
"So, Yessica is gone. Feel bad about that?" Asked Imanda sympathetically. "You two got along well."
"It sucks a lot, and I'll miss her company. She should've made merge, but then again I guess people have been complaining over boot orders in reality shows for years anyway." Mused Rheneas.
"Amen." Agreed Imanda, giggling.
(Confessional: It all started with people complaining Hatch ranked too high…)
Imanda: You know, I sorta hope I get selected to go to Banishment Bay tonight. A chance for stars and a bit of wilderness exploration sounds like a good time to me. Plus, well, Clyde could just come with me so we can hang out together, alone, for a while. Ain't no rule against it. (She winks.)
Rheneas: I guess there's little I can do with the whole Jimmy situation right now, and the Kim situation too. For now I'll keep focused on the game going on. I've not spoken to Eddie much lately, I've noticed, and as we were pals back in Letterama, well, might be worth trying. Me and Sasha are friends, so that's a starting point.
Eddie walked casually though the forest, glancing around. He appeared to be looking for something, or somebody.
"Where is she?" Asked Eddie out loud. "Uzuri can't have gotten that far. Uzuri! You out here?!"
Eddie heard a sound from nearby. It sounded like somebody punching a tree.
"I doubt that's Uzuri." Noted Eddie. "Still, never a bad time to work on my relationship with somebody. Could make all the difference when most of us are out."
Eddie followed the sound to its source, making his way past a section of bushes that bocked his view of what lay beyond. When he saw Kim hitting a tree, he silently cursed and tried to discreetly leave. However, he tripped on his own feet, falling backwards. This quickly got Kim's attention.
"Oh, you." Muttered Kim. "What do you fucking want? Need something?"
"I need to be far, far away from you." Said Eddie simply. "Bye."
Kim turned away, also looking irritated.
"Some detective, couldn't even find me out and kick me off." Muttered Kim to herself.
However, Kim had been just loud enough for Eddie to hear.
"What are you talking about?" Asked Eddie. "Find you out? Last I checked, you tried to win by being horrible. You can't deny you were horrid."
"I don't deny it." Agreed Kim, seething quietly. "I was going totally crazy, I could barely think or act as myself! It was a last resort, write that horrid note and hope you'd catch me and get me kicked out. If I had quit, boom, family gets a cash lawsuit against us!"
Eddie processed this for a moment.
"...Ok, that is a load of total bullshit." Said Eddie coldly. "There are infinitely better ways you could've gone about it if you had wanted to go. Just act like Lankston did when he lost the first time, not what you did! Besides, I recall you pinning it on Yannis and then later on trying to hide your idol. In fact, Cherry voted for herself, didn't she? Why didn't you? No, I think you're just lying and trying to start a baseless fight. Wouldn't surprise me."
"You have every reason to fucking hate my existence and yell at me, but … nevermind, I'm leaving. It's less hassle that way, and you don't know the full story." Stated Kim, taking her leave quickly.
Eddie frowned.
"Full story? Oh come off it. I've heard enough trash already. In the unlikely event you're being sincere...so what? If you have some kind of issue that would cause you to go nuts, then you shouldn't have come on the show at all." Said Eddie coldly. "Blaming me for all the revolting things you did by your own free will? Give me a fucking break. It'd be to our mutual happiness we simply do not talk to each other. Kim … what is there to even say?"
But Kim was long gone.
(Confessional: Emotions, emotions, emotions.)
Eddie: Well that was certainly awkward. I'm not giving Kim much thought, as it'd just upset me to think of her … but she wanted me to catch her? I may have been admittedly bad at being a detective, I'll own up to it, her story is full of holes and even if it was not, it's not me who is at fault here. My biggest crime is being oblivious to what, in hindsight, was obvious all along last season. Now, where is Uzuri? Hmmm…
Uzuri sat on the roof of the Mess Hall, laying on her back at she watched the sky. Using some string, she was wearing the three super stars she currently had as a sort of necklace. She idly fiddled with it as she relaxed.
"I'm more fashionable than I thought." Mused Uzuri cheerfully. "I should wear this necklace to my funeral. I'd be the most pretty corpse ever!"
As Uzuri relaxed, ready to take a nap, she heard the sound of somebody straining. Stuffing the necklace in her back pocket she approached the sound and saw Hector trying to get onto the roof with her. Smiling, Uzuri helped him on.
"Much appreciated." Said Hector, panting.
"No biggie. Can't have you falling and breaking your neck." Said Uzuri cheerfully. "So, what's up?"
"I just wanted to talk about your move you made last night." Began Hector.
Uzuri considered this.
"Is this the part where you get mad at me for making a move against your side even though, technically, you've made moves on other players and have full intent to keep doing so, and then the whole conversation gets awkward and we part ways after we pretend to come to peace only to end up feuding again by the next time we make a confessional?" Guessed Uzuri.
Hector was silent for a moment.
"...No." Said Hector simply. "I was actually going to say you made an interesting, if kind of illogical, move and I am impressed."
"Illogical?" Repeated Uzuri. "Oooohhh, you mean you wanted me to vote you off because you're a threat?"
"No! I didn't want you to do that!" Insisted Hector. "Look, this is going off the rails. I wanted to say you proved that you can really play this game when you feel like it. Rather then feud, perhaps we'd both do better if we agree to work together?"
"On one hand I do not know you too well. On another hand that makes the same point, I think you just want to work with me now to ensure I won't do anything without you knowing about it." Said Uzuri, considering Hector's words. "...You've convinced me. Let's do this! Let's spill some blood! Teehee!"
"You won't regret it." Assured Hector, choosing to ignore Uzuri's first two points. "So, I don't suppose you have any other stars that could help us today?"
"That would be telling." Teased Uzuri.
"We allies." Said Hector impatiently.
"So? You don't tell your allies everything." Reminded Uzuri.
To this, Hector did not respond.
"...Let's just vote off Alice if we lose." Suggested Hector calmly.
"Won't that make Opal hate us?" Asked Uzuri.
"Only if she finds out we voted for her." Said Hector calmly.
Uzuri tapped her chin.
"If somebody goes to Banishment Bay and we lose that means we'd only have five votes...and as Alice wouldn't vote for herself it kinda make sit blatantly obvious we'd have voted for her." Remarked Uzuri. "Whoa, math is fun!"
Hector groaned in frustration.
"Just watch the clouds." Requested Hector.
(Confessional: There's one shaped like a horror movie villain.)
Hector: It won't be easy working with Uzuri, I know that. We have basically nothing in common. But if it keeps her vote off me for a few days, I am more than happy to be audience to her odd mannerisms. Mystery is, does she have more stars or not? At least if she does, the two most dangerous ones are gone now.
Uzuri: Hector wants to keep an eye on me, eh? Well, ok then … I'll just keep an eye on him while he does that. Teehee! Now, more pressingly … do you ever wonder what the exact term for the fear of chainsaws is called? Being a horror movie buff I'd guess common sense, but it doesn't sound very scientific.
Sasha sat alone in the Mess Hall. Everybody else had eaten breakfast now, leaving her in a peaceful silence.
"Well, at least it wasn't the pinky." Said Sasha dryly. "Hopefully today's challenge won't require me to use my index finger much."
Sasha flexed her hand, wincing a little bit.
"Just a finger, I've overcome worse." Said Sasha to herself confidently. "Heh, least it wasn't the middle one. Well, might as well get talking. Where's everybody gone?"
At that moment Helen and Barney entered the Mess Hall, the former quickly getting a drink for the latter.
"Morning." Greeted Sasha.
"Hi." Replied Helen.
Barney gave Sasha a nod before glugging down the water.
"So, what's up?" Asked Sasha casually. "Anything much going on?"
"Well, this one got stung by a bee … and somehow the bee lived." Shrugged Helen.
Barney made a few gestures, but upon getting no reaction shrugged, looking thoughtful.
"Oh, he got stung in the throat so currently Barney cannot talk." Explained Helen. "I know, it's bizarre isn't it?"
"Yeah, Barney not talking loudly all the time is like a fish not swimming." Agreed Sasha. "Oh! Idea! You should go find Yannis. He'd probably be the best person who could help with this sort of thing."
Barney nodded his agreement. A moment later he mimed looking around, and shrugged.
"Are you asking where he is? Hmm, beats me." Said Sasha apologetically.
Barney silently groaned.
"Well so much for that." Remarked Helen. "Actually, we can just ask Winnie at the challenge anyway."
Barney nodded, looking relieved.
"...Ok, I'm sorry but it's really strange that Barney has been silent for this long." Admitted Sasha.
"Strange? To me it's like reality just broke." Shrugged Helen. "Ok, as Barney cannot talk right now, I'll be his voice, more or less. Kindly don't kick him off over this, maybe?"
Barney nodded quickly behind Helen.
"Would you offer me anything in return?" Asked Sasha. "I mean, if my alliance wanted it and I went against them..."
"He's mute, you broke a finger, you can bond over that." Shrugged Helen. "If not that, I guess I won't vote for you the next time we're on the same team, or merged?"
"That sounds useful." Agreed Sasha. "But who else would I vote for? Hector, because-."
"No, I want Hector here because he's more or less equally crap at the challenges as I am." Said Helen, sitting down. "Why not vote Alice out? With Barney currently mute she's one of the loudest people here and if she was gone Bishop might shut up for a while."
"Points made. Sure, I guess I could vote for somebody other than Barney." Agreed Sasha. "Not at the cost of myself though."
"That's fair." Agreed Helen. "Ok, that's enough excitement for one morning. I'm gonna go back to bed. Wake me when the challenge begins."
With that, Helen trudged out of the Mess Hall. Barney sat down next to Sasha, and all was quiet for a moment.
"...She's right, it is weird seeing you so quiet." Noted Sasha.
Barney just winked, making a finger gun in response.
"So, does Uzuri have anymore stars?" Asked Sasha curiously.
Barney, naturally, said nothing.
"...Oh come on! You can still nod or shake your head!" Pouted Sasha.
Barney just winked.
(Confessional: Speak in the way of body language to understand the ninja.)
Sasha: I like Barney, so I don't mind him staying. Plus, if Helen won't vote for me maybe he won't either? Just taking it one level at a time. (She fishes her 3DS out of her pocket, and sighs). Thing with this broken finger? By I can't play games properly. And as this had been my main stress relief now that my cigarettes are long gone … shit. (She looks up). Vishnu, can you do me a solid, please?
Spider sat alone at the edge of camp, near some ruins. He sat against some of them, doing a sketch of the rest of them in a notebook.
"Ah, what a nice morning." Said Spider to himself. "The sun is shining, the birds are singing, nobody is screaming in pure agony yet … not bad."
Spider continued to sketch quietly for a little while, but soon he noticed Quana and Opal approaching him.
"Oh, hello there." Greeted Spider. "What can I do for you? Need to borrow my camera again?"
"Incidentally, yes, I do." Admitted Quana. "But, actually, I kinda need your help. Well, Opal does really. She feels really sickly and was hoping you could tell what's wrong with her?"
Spider snapped to attention.
"I'll certainly have a go, but remember I am not licensed, so I might not be perfectly accurate." Said Spider, getting to his feet. "Opal, do you want Quana here, or would you prefer this be one on one?"
"Um … I guess I'd appreciate privacy. I mean, cameras are here, but I cant see the audience in front of me, so..." Opal trailer off. "Yeah, sorry Quana. :(."
"That's fine, I'll go chill somewhere else. Later." Said Quana, pausing to give Spider a flirty wink before she headed off.
Spider smiled, and then turned his focus back to Opal.
"Could you describe how you feel?" Requested Spider.
"Like :(, and it's really making me feel queasy." Moaned Opal.
"Could you be more specific? Like, where in your body you feel ill?" Requested Spider.
"Just inside I guess. Like food poisoning, except maybe not? It comes and goes, but it's pretty bad today." Explained Opal, wiping her forehead a little. "Plus, I don't know why, but I want a pickle badly right now."
Spider considered this carefully.
"You say it has come and gone before? How long has that been?" Asked Spider.
"Um … I guess since about the end of the first island? It never felt bad enough to mention, or for anybody to notice though." Replied Opal.
"Has anything else felt odd to you? Any differences from your normal habits?" Continued Spider.
"Well, I guess I'd have to, uh, go a little more if that counts." Shrugged Opal.
Spider paced a little, thinking it all over. He suddenly froze.
"...Please do not take this question the wrong way." Requested Spider. "...Are you and Zed sexually active, and if so, when was the last time you, uh, did the deed?"
"Spider!" Gasped Opal. "That's private stuff, that is! :O."
"I told you not to take it the wrong way!" Groaned Spider. "Just … um …"
Opal suddenly paused, realising where Spider was going with this.
"Wait, wait … do you think I'm..." Opal trailed off, going a tad paler as she spoke.
"It's just one thing that has occurred to me. I'm not licensed, so-." Began Spider.
"We used protection." Insisted Opal. "i know it's not one hundred percent reliable, but … oh...oh..."
"What is it?" Asked Spider, gently putting a hand on Opal's shoulder. "It's not a guarantee, I might very well be wrong."
Opal looked at Spider, now very scared.
"My … period is late..." Whispered Opal. "That means..."
Before Spider could say anything else Opal let out a frightened scream, soon laying herself in a fetal position on the ground, mumbling unintelligible frightened things. Spider knelt down next to her, pausing for a moment before gently stroking her hair.
"Hey, it'll be ok." Said Spider gently. "Zed isn't far away, and win or lose, you'll be seeing him soon enough. Until then, I'll do what I can do help. I know a bit about pregnancy, um, well, the theory anyway, eheheh. You'll get support."
Opal didn't make a sound.
"Stupid … stupid … Ryan..." Mumbled Opal, her eyes darting around.
Spider looked uneasy. He knew of Opal's past experiences.
"It won't be easy." Said Spider quietly. "But, you won't be alone. I promise, so long as I am not kicked out of the game, I'll try my best to help. Opposing teams be darned."
Opal managed to briefly smile, before becoming overcome with worry again, tears in her eyes.
(Confessional: Before the P, you have the D.)
Spider: Mmmm, yikes, I uh … I didn't expect this. I had hoped I was wrong, but we went to see Chef just in case and, well he confirmed it. So now, Opal is pregnant. And, right now I am the only one who knows, well, the only contestant anyway. I should keep this as low key as possible, to stop gossip. It's really private business of Opal, and I only speak of it here because … well, cameras. I really hope safety measures are taken, for all of us but especially for Opal … I bet she's scared that, with the challenges, she may … may … I think it goes without saying. (He looks uneasy.)
Opal: (She is hunched up, looking afraid with tears in her eyes). I want Zed…
Uzuri was now sitting by some ruins, playing around with the super star necklace.
"I love empty mornings." Said Uzuri to herself, a smile on her face.
Uzuri looking out towards the beach nearby, and out at the waves.
"I wonder when Alice and Bishop will be back." Pondered Uzuri. "Wonder if they found anything. Teehee!"
"I'd expect not." Said a voice. "As I've overheard you played two stars last night, and you seem to have three there with you."
Eddie approached Uzuri, who gave him a wave.
"Morning Eddie." Greeted Uzuri. "How's things going for you on your team."
"Well enough. Yourself?" Replied Eddie.
"Uh huh. I used the stars to send Yessica home last night." Gigged Uzuri. "You told me to step my game up, and I did. Five stars, and now a body added to my count. It feels great! Teehee!"
"You took out Yessica?" Said Eddie, blinking. "Uh … why?"
"Why? Why are you asking? You said you overheard I played two stars, and the fact Yessica is not here right now..." Uzuri trailed off, making gestures.
"...Look, why did you target her?" Asked Eddie.
"I mean, I wasn't gonna target Sasha if that's what you're asking." Replied Uzuri. "I dunno, it just seemed the right thing to do, you know? You know, when you get that feeling?"
"I mean, good job pulling it off, but I can think of better people to have taken down." Stated Eddie. "If you'd be willing to lend me the stars I-."
"No way buster." Replied Uzuri, holding the stars close. "These are mine! If you wanted them so bad you should've volunteered as Banishee. Besides, I know you wouldn't give them back, bub."
"Hey, if they get used well, does it matter?" Asked Eddie. "I promise I'd not do anything towards you specifically if that is your worry."
"...Eddie, the purple star is mine for keepsies, and the red one would help your team, and the blue one would hinder mine." Said Uzuri, pouting. "Not gonna!"
"Come on, I want to help you." Insisted Eddie.
"Don't wanna!" Whined Uzuri, stomping her foot. "You told me to step up my game, and now you don't like the way I did it? You just wanted me to be an extra useful pawn or something. Well guess what bucko?! ...Go on, guess."
Eddie shrugged and beckoned her to continue.
"I am really good at copying what other people do, and Tabitha got to the final three, so I'm gonna copy her, except do even better!" Announced Uzuri. "So no, you're not getting my stars. You'd have the prise them from my cold, dead fingers because you can't steal them and I am not giving them to you."
Eddie shrugged, accepting this.
"Fine, but when you misuse them you'll have wanted my aid." Warned Eddie. "At least I know now there's no reason to want to go to Banishment Bay, so I'll try and get myself out of ever having to go."
"You'll miss out, it's a fun way to spend the night." Said Uzuri, now looking over a shiny pebble. "Ooooohh, cool."
(Confessional: Who needs stars? That's a fine pebble.)
Eddie: Look, I genuinely did want to help Uzuri. But fine, let's see how she plans to step up her game. Either I'll be impressed, or she'll see I was right. Honestly, I'd prefer the former because it'd keep things interesting.
Uzuri: (She taps her chin with the purple star). So, think I should play the red and blue stars at the same time to make sure my team wins this one? Maybe I'll just play one? Though, it would mean my necklace loses some style … it's a tough call.
Rheneas and Sasha chilled together by the forest, the latter grumbling a bit.
"Something wrong?" Asked Rheneas.
"It's the broken finger. Can't play games." Explained Sasha. "It's a struggle."
"Do you have any other hobbies to distract you?" Suggested Rheneas.
"Donny was talking about getting me to do boxing … that fell through, so I was thinking dancing." Said Sasha awkwardly.
"That was a good idea of Donny's. Would've been nice if he was competing. Him, Max, Nina or maybe Yannis." Mused Rheneas. "A lot of good people got left out."
"I agree. I would've been pretty nice if Gordon or Winnie were playing the game." Agreed Sasha. "But, that's luck of the draw for you."
"...Gordon?" Repeated Rheneas.
"He'd be easy to beat, wouldn't he? Plus, me with smoking … him with drinking … I guess maybe we could bond over bad habits." Shrugged Sasha. "Speaking of bonding, Yessica got voted out. I hear you guys were close?"
"Yeah, we were. She was cool." Agreed Rheneas. "How did she leave anyway? Did she not fit in on the team or something? That's why a lot of people got voted off in previous seasons."
"Actually, Uzuri got the most votes but she used the green and orange super stars. She picked Yessica as her target, and got Barney to help her." Explained Sasha, looking up at the sky. "Really, once Uzuri claimed power it could've been any of us."
"So what you're saying is one friend of mine took out another friend of mine?" Asked Rheneas.
"Awkwaaaaard." Said Sasha, fiddling with her ponytail. "What'll you do? Gun for Uzuri and avenge Yessica, or clench your teeth and try to keep your alliance going?"
"Actually, I'm not that bothered? I mean, it's just a game. Chances are I'm gonna know some of you guys for years after what we've been through, so holding a massive grudge over the show is kinda stupid, really." Shrugged Rheneas. "Honestly, I feel impressed that Uzuri pulled something off. I'm sure it'll look good on TV."
"Just like us walking around blindly in the maze?" Smirked Sasha. "Oh, but who am I to complain about an overly basic challenge?"
"Bishop and Opal sure didn't like it." Noted Rheneas. "I didn't either, due to how much I got spiked."
"You got bothered by spikes? I would've thought you'd have just shaken it off." Teased Sasha.
"Hey, you take a bunch of cacti in your arms multiple times, see where it gets you." Said Rheneas, rolling his eyes.
"Point." Said Sasha with a wince. "Oh, did you hear? Barney got stung in his throat by a bee, so he can't talk now."
"Wait, really? Barney being mute … that's about as normal as Gordon being sober." Noted Rheneas. "I hope it won't last too long ... it's just weird."
"Mhmm." Agreed Sasha. "So, almost the merge. Any ideas who's gonna be the next to go?"
"Imanda is pushing for Bishop to go, but I won't be surprised if plans change." Stated Rheneas. "...Aw, shit! You're sorta allied with Bishop right? Kindly do not tell him what I said."
"Nah, no worries, I won't. Honestly, I think I'd manage whether he is here is not." Assured Sasha. "As for me team … I don't know, maybe Alice? No ideas for the vote have been bought up anyway."
"Maybe Hector?" Suggested Rheneas. "I know he'd probably want to gun for me eventually."
"He is kinda also my ally." Admitted Sasha.
Rheneas paused.
"...You sure are popular." Noted Rheneas.
"Only among the fans, and that was last season." Snickered Sasha.
(Confessional: The seasons change like, well, the seasons.)
Rheneas: From talking to Sasha, a few things are clear. Uzuri is much tougher than people give her credit for, Sasha is well connected and I … need to get my head in the game, because it feels like I am getting left behind. Why can't I get the stuff with Jimmy and Jennifer out of my head?
(Banishment Bay)
Bishop and Alice had been collected and, not even glancing at each other, boarded the boat. Zita looked at them warily before starting up the engine again and driving back towards Anatat Isle.
"Not a word from you anymore Bishop." Said Alice coldly. "For all intents and purposes, you no longer exist in my eyes. I also no longer exist in yours. I nearly got crushed, and I am not willing to risk it happening again. Nothing is worth my life."
"You tackled me, remember that." Said Bishop coolly.
"After what you were saying? ...Did you really think that nobody would get sick of you and try to beat the shit out of you eventually? That we'd just put up with you being a total bastard?" Scoffed Alice. "Frankly, I'm just amazed nobody tried attacking you sooner."
"I do recall a no hitting rule." Scowled Bishop.
"So? It's never been enforced." Shrugged Alice.
"Whatever. You're not perfect either, and I saved you." Reminded Bishop.
"And I gave you gratitude, and that's the last thing I'll ever give you." Stated Alice, moving to the back of the boat, looking over it and out at the sea beyond.
Bishop shook his head, moving to stand near Zita at the other side of the boat. For a while, all was silent.
"Why do you two even argue?" Asked Zita. "If you ask me, you're both pretty nasty."
"It was fun. Kept things interesting." Shrugged Bishop.
"Interesting enough for Alice to almost be crushed into a pile of gore?" Asked Zita seriously.
"I-." Began Bishop.
"If you say she would've deserved it for being 'poor.'.." Said Zita, glaring coldly.
"I was going to say I never wanted such a thing to befall her, and the fact I got her out of the way is proof enough." Said Bishop firmly. "What could've happened didn't happen. No sense to dwell on what ifs."
Zita was silent, still driving the boat.
"It'll come out eventually, you know." Said Zita quietly.
"What will?" Asked Bishop stiffly.
Zita glanced back at Alice. She didn't seem to be listening. Zita lowered her voice further.
"I was ordered to check out permanent records and such before the season, on some of the players. Nothing much, just a quick glance to check things were up to date and stuff. Well, I saw something rather interesting in your file." Stated Zita.
Zita gave Bishop another cold look while Bishop froze.
"If you dare speak a word..." Scowled Bishop.
"I won't. It's against the rules, and it'd be wrong of me anyway." Said Zita quietly. "But you know, deep down Bishop, you were once like her. One day, it may come out."
Bishop turned away, staring out at the ocean.
"Well, I'll just have to see to it that is does not." Muttered Bishop.
Quiet though they had been, Alice had managed to overhear the discussion.
(Confessional: Loose lips sink more than ships.)
Bishop: Urrgh, paperwork. Good to have on others, but ghastly to have on yourself. Zita would do well to keep quiet. (He looks uneasy.) Not important. Back to the main island now. I'll see who's gone and plan out who shall be the next to fall accordingly.
Alice: Hmmmm, what were they talking about? Bishop was once like me? ...Should I even care, honestly?
(Anatat Isle)
(Temple Roof)
Alice and Bishop had returned, and now the thirteen campers were gathered on the roof of a large, ancient temple. It was built right next to another temple of a similar, grand design. Notably, a helicopter was hovering in place in the space between the two buildings, a rope descending from it and tied securely on a hook near the campers. A light rainstorm had begun a short while ago, but it was still very warm. The three hosts began to speak once the campers were arranged within their teams.
"Welcome one and all to your next challenge!" Exclaimed Winnie.
"But first, as you can all hopefully see given how you're not blind, Yessica got voted off last night." Continued Xaria.
"But enough about that irrelevant girl, what matters is this challenge." Continued Chris. "Now, who here has watched the classic move George of the Jungle?"
Imanda instantly let out a loud squeal of delight.
"Oh my gosh! Yes! Yes I have!" Exclaimed Imanda. "That's like the best movie ever made, ever!"
"Then you'll love this challenge." Snickered Chris. "Take it away girls."
Winnie smiled, ready to begin.
"This challenge is, as Chris alluded to, very much like George of the Jungle. Except for the part where he crashes into trees." Began Winnie.
"Because you might smack into the bricks of the other temple." Added Xaria.
Winnie huffed, giving Xaria a look.
"Anyway, all you need to do is use that rope there to swing across to the other side. If you successfully make it to the other roof, you score a point. If you fall, or otherwise do not make it in some ways you won't." Explained Winnie. "Most points wins a reward, and if we have a tie after six swings a team, we'll keep going until we have a winner."
"And don't worry, there's a big pool set up down there to catch you if you fall." Assured Xaria. "Now, we're gonna need one lucky Golden Hawk to sit out from this one to keep it fair. I am not being sarcastic, that person is lucky, let's all be honest here."
Opal instantly raised her hand frantically.
"Me! Me! Me!" Pleaded Opal.
"Ok then, Opal is sitting out." Said Xaria, nodding.
"Anybody got any questions before we begin?" Asked Winnie cheerfully.
"Yeah, can Barney have some kind of notebook or something? A certain bee has left him mute for the foreseeable future." Stated Helen.
Barney nodded in agreement to this.
"Ok, we'll look into that once the challenge is over." Agreed Winnie. "Anything else?"
"Catch, girl!" Exclaimed Uzuri.
Uzuri tossed the blue super star to Winnie, who fumbled a bit before managing to get hold of it. Winnie checked it over and nodded.
"This is the blue super star." Announced Winnie. "For this challenge, the Golden Hawks will have a disadvantage assigned."
"And it'll involve wearing some rather cumbersome mittens to do the challenge with." Teased Chris.
At this, the Golden Hawks all groaned while the Bronze Tigers felt rather pleased.
"So, what's the reward gonna be?" Asked Imanda. "Tickets to a vacation hot spot?"
"Nope, but you can use the reward to buy those tickets." Grinned Chris. "The winning team earns two hundred dollars for each member."
"We are winning this." Ordered Alice.
"I hear you loud and clear." Agreed Sasha before looking at her finger in its cast. "Crap."
"If there are no more questions, you may pick your swinging orders and we can get this show on the road … and I use the term show very loosely." Stated Xaria.
(Confessional: Watch out for that temple wall!)
Helen: This is going to suck.
Eddie: Rope swinging. Hmm … I did this a lot as a kid, but it has been years. At least it doesn't matter too much to lose a reward, even if two hundred dollars would be nice.
Alice: I got very briefly told by Spider that Barney lost his voice and Yessica is gone. What the fuck happened last night? Stupid Hector having so much stupid power.
Hector: This challenge is going to be an exceptional Ruination. (He groans). Well, come what may. At least Uzuri played that star … that's three now. Does that girl have the other two as well?
Next Time: We see some swinging successes and a few serious fails, and one team wins the reward!
