Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama, but I do own every OC in this story unless I say otherwise.
Note: Hooray for quick updates! With so few campers remaining, chapters from here on will, for the most part, be shorter than the norm and also easier to write. I'm ready to try my best to complete this story; it's in the home stretch, more or less, and I don't want to keep anybody waiting! I have a lot of free time over the coming days, so I should be able to get a lot of writing done … I hope so at least. Read on and enjoy!
Brain, Brawn or Beauty? Why not have all three?
The moon was out over Stranded Island. Clouds were gathering and a rainstorm seemed to be looming. The Cove of Crybabies still had some moonlight illuminating it, though it was mainly relying on the fire of the torches to stay lit. Chris was standing on the Dock of Dismay with Tyler.
"Welcome back to Total Drama Tweenabet, the show you do not want to miss! Only five campers are left standing and today we're entering the quarter finals!" Announced Chris.
"And I'm Tyler!" Added Tyler. "So glad I finally get to help with a recap; you were saving the best until last, right Chris?"
"… Yeah, let's go with that." Shrugged Chris. "Last time on Total Drama Tweenabet love was in the air … and so was hatred. Quadesh and Edith both wanted Otis as their boyfriend, while Otis wasn't really up for a relationship with either girl for reasons unknown that he refers to as his 'baggage'. Not just that, but Tilly was angry about wasting her Chris Idol, and even more angry when she learnt that Donald, Edith and Otis had been in an alliance for a long time without her eve realizing it."
"That girl is scary when she's mad. Tilly rounded up Quadesh and Larry to help her which they, very reluctantly, agreed to since they also want to win. The challenge was trekking through the Boney Island Swamp … at night! The temporary teams were Edith and Larry, Otis and Quadesh and also Donald and Tilly, both of whom were assisted by Owen due to Donald playing the Cody Idol like a boss!" Exclaimed Tyler.
"Stuff happened between all three teams. Larry tried to get information out of Edith, Tilly played mind games with Donald and tried to use his insecurities to her advantage and Otis and Quadesh ran into The Beast, and Quadesh ended up kissing Otis … a lot. But in the end the cuffs were unlocked and Donald beat Tilly to the finish line and won immunity. And then some stuff happened at camp." Continued Chris.
"Totally! Donald's alliance wanted to vote off Tilly and the rest decided to vote off Tilly. Tilly messed with Donald's head some more and got him to give her immunity. Donald couldn't bring himself to vote off his buds, but in the end Edith left with three votes against her … and had to take the Hurl of Shame due to Tilly playing the Katie Idol. Tilly then become evil." Winced Tyler.
"Yep, Tilly had previously stabbed herself with Donald's sword and framed Donald for hurting and threatening her. This put Donald in really hot water. Otis and Edith shared a heart-warming goodbye, along with a sneaky kiss from Edith, before I sent Edith flying into the sky. Only five campers are left now and the drama and hate levels are as big as ever, and I love it!" Exclaimed Chris. "So Tyler, who are you rooting for?"
"Everybody except Tilly, she's a meanie." Pouted Tyler.
"Well, there are a lot of 'meanies' in this game, and a meanie could still win. So, can Donald get out of the whole he has fallen into? Will anybody doubt Tilly's plan, or will they all be fooled? With Edith gone, can Otis really trust anybody? What kind of dye does Larry use for his Mohawk? What is best, Brains, Brawn or Beauty? And who will be the next person voted out of the game?" Asked Chris dramatically.
"Find out right now on Total Drama Tweenabet! Extreme!" Cheered Tyler energetically.
(Theme Song, I Wanna Be Famous)
(Crazy Crustaceans Main Camp)
The camp was quite empty, but then again since only five campers were left on the island and two of them were nowhere to be seen this was probably to be expected. Currently Larry, Quadesh and Tilly were hanging out by the shelter; Tilly had tears in her eyes and was hugging Quadesh while Quadesh looked a little awkward.
"It was horrible! He kicked me to the ground and pierced me like chicken on a kebab!" Sobbed Tilly. "I had no choice but to obey him, and now Edith is gonna hate me! Why did he force me to act so horrible? Why…?"
Tilly sniffled a bit and wiped away a few tears.
"He really stabbed you with his sword? That's just so … I don't even know how to describe it." Admitted Quadesh.
"Absurd?" Suggested Larry.
"That works." Nodded Quadesh.
"What, you mean you don't believe me?" Exclaimed Tilly. "How could you side with a stabber?!"
"I didn't say I was." Stated Larry. "I just said that all of this is quite out of left field. Can't blame me for being shocked and having trouble taking it all in."
"I suppose not." Mumbled Tilly. "But we all blame Donald, right? That horrid monster has to go before he hurts anybody else!"
"I guess that works. But, maybe we should get his side of the story. A good politician and future American president knows to get both sides of the argument before handing down a verdict." Decided Quadesh.
"No!" Exclaimed Tilly.
"… Why not?" Asked Larry with a suspicious frown.
"He might hurt you guys too! I don't want you to get stabbed; believe me, it hurts and you do not want to experience it!" Insisted Tilly. "Stay away from him, you'll be glad you did."
"If you're sure." Shrugged Larry. "Anyway, I gotta be elsewhere, so … later."
Larry started to walk away, but Tilly wasn't done speaking to him.
"Where are you going?" Asked Tilly.
"Away." Said Larry. "I just want to take a walk to clear my head."
Soon enough Larry was gone into the forest and this left Tilly and Quadesh alone.
"Well, it's been a rough day … but I can think of one good thing that came from it." Grinned Quadesh.
"What's that?" Asked Tilly curiously.
"I have Otis all to myself and I'm gonna ask him out. Wish me luck." Giggled Quadesh. "We'll be the cutest couple of the season, no doubt about it."
"… Best of luck to you." Stated Tilly. "Man, this hurts … can you stay with me tonight? I don't want to be alone…"
"… Ok, if you want me to, I guess." Said Quadesh with slight reluctance. "I guess I can always ask Otis out in the morning."
(Confessional: Ladies and gentleman, our endgamers.)
Quadesh: Tilly's story doesn't add up. I mean, yes, she does have an injury and there was blood on Donald's sword … but if he'd directly caused her harm in such a way he'd have been disqualified. It's flat out written in the contracts. I'm gonna keep an eye on her; I might get some answers if I look hard enough. Not like they'll come to me if I sit down and do nothing.
Larry: Do I believe Tilly's story? In a word … no, or at least not completely. Her injury came from somewhere, but I'm pretty certain Donald isn't that evil. I'm gonna talk to Donald and see what he says. After Tilly hurt Xadrian, I've learnt to take her words with a groan of salt.
Tilly: It's all too easy. A few tears and a sob story and people flock to me like flies to sticky honey. I've got this game won … but I can still have a bit of fun before the finale. Otis and Quadesh are getting close, I think. I'd rather they didn't hook up and start voting together. I already destroyed one alliance last night, I do not want another. I think I know somebody who would be willing to help … somebody with no options. (Tilly giggles).
Otis sat alone in a clearing in the forest. He had his back to the camera and was working on making something, though the camera could not see what it was.
"Well, that sucked. In fact, it didn't just suck, it also blew … innuendo not intended." Sighed Otis. "Guess I'll be looking out for myself for the next two days … but oh well, I'm pretty darn independent anyway. Time to put Operation Chocolate Covered Sundae into motion!"
Otis continued to work on the object in his hands and soon looked satisfied.
"Time for revenge … the best revenge." Cackled Otis.
Otis then heard the sound of a twig snapping nearby; he quickly stuffed his object into his hoodie pocket (the4 cameras not seeing what it was) and turned to see who it was. He sighed to himself when he saw Donald approaching him.
"You know, you're kinda like a sad dog." Noted Otis. "You're coming back with your tail between your legs … and you're a bit of a bitch."
"Ok, I deserved that one." Admitted Donald. "I'm assuming you'd like to know why I did something so moronic back there?"
"Nope." Stated Otis.
"… Really?" Blinked Donald.
"Yep, it's obvious what you did … you betrayed me because you got bored of me. Now, I can take being backstabbed because I am no longer useful … but being called boring? Now that is just mean." Frowned Otis. "Good luck making it to the finale Mr. Stabby, you're gonna need it. You put your sword in the wrong place … no innuendo intended."
"Otis, please, I know you're mad at me and I totally agree that you should be mad at me … but can I least explain why I did what I did?" Pleaded Donald. "I didn't stab Tilly, she framed me! Honest! I'd sooner die than do something so morally bankrupt! Please … you believe me, right…?"
Donald thought he saw something flicker in Otis's eye, but couldn't be certain.
"If a tree falls in the woods and nobody is around to hear it, does it make a sound? Nobody knows." Stated Otis. "Just like nobody knows if you are being truthful or a naughty liar."
Otis seemed content to say nothing else and dashed out of the clearing in his normal haphazard way. Donald didn't bother to chase after him; he knew he had lost his best friend, possibly forever.
"Can I possibly fix this mess?" Lamented Donald. "… I suppose not."
(Confessional: D is for Doomed.)
Donald: The last elimination ceremony was not my finest hour … it was my worst one. Thanks to my own stupidity, short sightedness, lack of foresight and gullibility … Edith is gone in a nasty way, Otis hates me and people think I stabbed Tilly with my sword. But am I going to cry and feel sorry for myself? No, why should I? It was all my fault, I made the decision to listen to Tilly, even if I didn't fully go through with it, and like mum says, you reap what you sow. I'm hoping for a miracle … because at this point, I'm basically a dead man walking … Edith, I'm sorry. I have bought much shame to the name of the Youngblood family…
Otis: … Yeah, I can tell the next few days are not gonna be easy … like, about as not easy as Battle-Toads.
Donald was soon lying on the ground in the clearing and gazed aimlessly up at the starry night sky. However, his limited peace was interrupted when he heard footsteps.
"Dude, we need to talk." Said Larry as he approached Donald. "Like, right now."
"Say what you will, I have no energy or will to defend myself." Replied Donald in resignation.
"Hey, why are you out here anyway?" Asked Larry.
"Well, it's not like I can go back to camp for the night, is it?" Shrugged Donald. "Everybody thinks I stabbed Tilly; it'd be a bad idea to face everyone after what happened."
"But, did you really stab Tilly? That's the question." Stated Larry.
"No, I didn't." Insisted Donald. "She framed me! I'd never go something so awful! I admit that early on I wanted to be a villain since I'm usually seen as a villain back home anyway, but I would never go that low. But why should I say anything? Nobody believes me."
"Well, for what it's worth Tilly didn't convince me … at least, not completely." Assured Larry. "I believe that you are not horrid enough to stab somebody … but the fact is, Tilly did have a stab mark and there was blood on your sword. If you didn't stab Tilly where did it come from?"
"I don't know!" Exclaimed Donald. "Maybe Tilly stabbed herself? Or maybe Tilly hurt herself by tripping on a rock and smeared some of the blood on my sword. Look, I didn't do it! I'd be fully willing to go under oath at court if need be; honesty is something I really value!"
Larry looked at Donald; the rich boy looked desperate and close to tears. Larry took a deep breath and sighed.
"For the record, you're my opponent and I'll willingly vote you out of the game I have to … but you're not a bad guy, and I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt. I'll see if I can get the others to lay off you." Offered Larry. "I can't promise you safety from votes or anything serious, but I'll at least be civil with you."
"… Thanks Larry, I appreciate that." Said Donald with a weak smile. "… I'm gone if I don't win immunity, aren't I?"
"Probably." Admitted Larry. "If I were you I'd look for the Chris Idol. Later."
Larry calmly took his leave whilst Donald looked determined.
"Tilly, I will not let you get away with this." Whispered Donald. "Edith shall be avenged!"
(Confessional: Civility can be precious.)
Larry: I feel bad for Donald, but all the same he's my opponent and I'd really like to win. Abut if I had my way, Tilly would go home today. Donald can have fourth place. Am I harsh? Yeah, probably? But am I realistic and honest? Yes, I am. Life ain't a fairy tale, and I never was the kind of guy to enjoy Snow White as a bedtime story.
Donald: Like Darkwing Duck sometimes says … let's get dangerous.
The next morning the clouds were building up; it was clear that it was probably going to rain during the challenge, much to the annoyance of the campers. Currently Otis was sitting on a rock looking up at the clouds.
"Hmm, that one looks like a dinosaur … and that one looks like a speedboat … oh, and that one looks like a clown riding on a unicycle. Cloud watching, will you ever get old?" Chuckled Otis. "Stress relief, it never gets old … quite unlike Chris whom I think is approaching retirement."
Otis heard a giggle and then Quadesh sat down next to him.
"Good one Otis, you sure have a great sense of humour." Complimented Quadesh. "You should become a stand-up comedian."
"I was thinking of become a Private Investigator personally. It'd be so cool living the life of Sherlock and Captain Obvious at the same time." Grinned Otis.
"Otis, never change." Smiled Quadesh.
"Wasn't planning on it." Replied Otis. "So, need something? Because let it be known I don't give backrubs without being paid."
Quadesh couldn't help but blush at the thought of Otis giving her a backrub, but she quickly composed herself.
"Otis, remember yesterday in the swamp … well, last night really, but you know remember all that happened right?" prompted Quadesh.
"Yep, we sure showed The Beast who was boss!" Nodded Otis with a grin. "He was all like 'you kids are dead', and we were all like 'eeeee-nope'. Good times huh?"
"Yeah … do you remember what happened after we beat The Beast?" Asked Quadesh nervously.
Otis inwardly winced.
"You mean when you went cuckoo and started kissing me like I was made of tasty sugar?" Guessed Otis.
"Yeah, that." Confirmed Quadesh. "You know why I did that, right?"
"… You mentioned that you like me." Mumbled Otis.
"No … I love you." Admitted Quadesh. "It's taken me until now to admit it since I've been so scared I'd just mess it up if I told you … but … now that I've told you that you are the Mario to my Princess Peach … would you like to be my boyfriend? I promise, I'll do my best to be a good girlfriend, I pinkie swear."
Otis was silent as Quadesh looked at him lovingly. After a few moments of silence Otis hesitantly spoke.
"Quadesh … you're a very sweet girl. You've grown up a lot during this contest, unlike me since life is too short for me to grow up … I'm sure you'd be a great girlfriend to anybody … but, I'm sorry to say I'm not the guy you'll be a girlfriend too." Said Otis apologetically. "We're just … not right for each other."
Quadesh looked as though she had been slapped across the face.
"Is it because I'm bossy? Or autistic? Please Otis, I can change for you!" Insisted Quadesh.
"It's not you Quadesh, it's me. I'm no good with commitment and I'd be a really bad boyfriend, and your daddy would probably not approve of me. Besides, like I told Edith, I come with too much baggage. Trust me, you can do a lot better. Don't settle for the first boy you fancy." Said Otis gently.
"… Ok, I understand." Said Quadesh quietly. "I'll just … go now … bye."
Quadesh got up and started to walk away … before breaking into a sprint whilst holding back tears.
Otis could only sigh.
"Well, that was about as hard as diamond." Lamented Otis. "Why must girls find me so sexy and irresistible?"
(Confessional: Because puberty.)
Quadesh: … Love hurts… (She starts to cry)
Otis: I hereby apologise to all the shippers; it just wouldn't work out. Hopefully Tilly won't fall for me as well … that'd just be awkward.
Donald was still in the woods; due to the fact he was too ashamed to show himself at camp he had stayed in camp all night and all morning and was currently eating his freshly caught breakfast of some ripe apples.
"I sure hope these aren't poisonous." Murmured Donald after swallowing a mouthful of apple. "Poison is poisonous…"
"Captain Obvious strikes again!" Said a voice from the trees.
Donald scowled.
"I have nothing to say to you." Said Donald bitterly.
Tilly dropped down from a tree and approached Donald.
"That's just too bad, because I have plenty to say to you." Smirked Tilly. "So, how's the life of an outcast treating you Mr. Stabby?"
"Enough with the condescending jokes! You framed me for stabbing you! What kind of sick monster are you?" Exclaimed Donald with a look of hatred.
"I'm not monster, I'm just a smart player. Does being strategic make me a monster?" Asked Tilly softly and in mock offense.
"Cut the crap, you know full damn well what you did was just wrong on so many levels." Hissed Donald.
"You can blame me and hate me all you want, but you are the one who chose to listen to me buster." Teased Tilly. "Not your smartest moment."
"I'll agree with that much, it was stupid of me to trust a person like you. I had friends who cared about me, and I cared about them … I lost track of what really mattered to me and now I have nothing. You're right Tilly, we're both kids who want to be special and have a victory to call our own … but that's where the similarities end! In fact, why am, I still talking to you? I have nothing more to say to you." Frowned Donald.
Donald turned to leave but Tilly simply grabbed him by his wrist.
"I don't think you want to walk away from me." Said Tilly with an insincere smile. "You see, I'm your only hope if you do not want to lose."
"I'll take my chances." Scoffed Donald.
"You sure you want to give up on winning this game? You have a chance, albeit a small one. If you were to, say, help me with my next plan I think I could help you make it to the finale." Offered Tilly.
"… Dare I ask what scheme you have in mind this time?" Frowned Donald.
"The short of it is we'll pin the blame onto Otis. You know, say he was controlling you and I did not know it. He's already ditched you, I presume, so you'll be fine with this, right?" Offered Tilly.
"… Go screw yourself." Sneered Donald. "I already betrayed a dear friend because of you, and I'm not making the same mistake again. Does Otis hate me now? Maybe. But I still see him as a cool guy and I am not betraying him. He deserves to be here far more than you do."
"What?!" Exclaimed Tilly. "But you'll be doomed if you don't follow my lead!"
"Then so be it." Shrugged Donald. "I'd rather leave the game in the Hurl of Shame with my honour intact than win by working with a succubus scum like you. Flawed as I am, I do have principles."
"… Fine, if you're not with me you are against me. Heed my words Donald Duck, it's now Duck hunting season." Sneered Tilly.
"… Don't call me that." Frowned Donald.
"Quack, quack, quackitty, quack!" Sneered Tilly.
"At least Donald Duck is a good character, unlike Allen Gregory … which is you!" Exclaimed Donald as he turned and took his leave.
"You … you … duck!" Yelled Tilly.
(Confessional: Be wewwy, wewwy qwuiet, I'm hunting ducks. Huhuhuhuh!)
Donald: Maybe it was a bit hypocritical to call Tilly out for being flawed and horrid when I've done things I am not proud of as well … but damn, it felt good!
Tilly: (She shrugs). I guess Donald isn't concerned with winning after all. Oh well, it just makes things easier for me.
Larry sat alone by the shelter; he seemed content with all the silence.
"Ah, this is life." Sighed Larry in pure relaxation. "After last night's fiasco some peace and quiet is just what the doctor ordered."
Larry stretched out and lay down on his back whilst putting his arms behind his head.
"Maybe I can get some sleep before the challenge; that'd be nice." Mused Larry as he shut his eyes.
(Confessional: Don't dream of the Slenderman!)
Larry: With all the craziness and annoyingness of the past few days I'd almost forgotten how golden silence really is. It was pleasant to be reminded.
Quadesh sat alone with her knees drawn up near the sea. The waves came close to her, but never quite made contact with her shoes. Quadesh let out a sad sigh as she morosely looked out at the ocean.
"I know we're very different people … but I really thought it could happen. I thought he was my Prince Charming … or maybe Prince Chaos. Well, crying about it won't solve anything … even if it's very tempting to do so." Sniffled Quadesh. "Just gotta stay focused, gotta keep my eye on the prize … only a few days left, and only four opponents to beat … I can do this … I will do this … I shall do this!"
Quadesh then sighed again.
"Hopefully I can work the jury to my favour … I sure hope I can. Daddy is probably counting on me." Mumbled Quadesh. "But, since I'm gonna win … Otis can have second place. …hey, what's that?"
Quadesh looked out at the waves and saw a bottle being washed towards her. Normally this wouldn't catch her interest since empty and dirty bottles had washed up on shore two or three times already in the contest, but this bottle was not only clean, but it was corked and had a message inside it.
"… This looks interesting." Mused Quadesh as the bottle washed up to the shore and tapped her shoe. "Well, letters are written to be read, so let's see what it says.
Quadesh picked up the bottle, took out the cork and emptied the message into her hand. Upon opening it she blinked.
"Hey, this is written in hieroglyphics … was this letter supposed to be for me? Nobody else hear can read hieroglyphics…" Mused Quadesh. "Well, time to read the mail."
Quadesh started to read the letter, and this is what it said (translated for convenience).
Dear Quadesh
I am writing this in Hieroglyphics since I do not want anybody but you to read this letter. How are you doing? You're really kicking butt and taking names, and I'm proud to be your friend! You've come a long way and I'm sure you will go further still. If I was on the jury I'd vote for you to win, but since I'm not all I can do is wish you the very best of luck.
Quadesh, you may already know it, but there is somebody in this game you cannot trust. Tilly has been playing everybody since the start and she's so scary and stuff! I know sending this message isn't exactly honest, but you've shown me I can be tougher than I give myself credit for … sometimes. Tilly has done many naughty things during the contest. Some of them are already known, but some are not, such as
- Being the reason I was voted off (I'm not mad about this one, I wouldn't have lasted much longer anyway).
- Backstabbing Harvey when he became a threat to her despite the fact he was her true love … I think.
- Pitting you and Joanne against each other early on to get you voted out.
- Taunting Xadrian over his deceased mother to and making him break his leg.
If you already know this, then discard the letter as irrelevant. If you didn't know this, then maybe tell the others? Or, you know, keep it to yourself. That works too.
Good luck Quadesh, I'm rooting for you!
Mist Okri
Quadesh was silent, then she started to frown and then she started to snarl and growl.
"That little rat!" Exclaimed Quadesh. "I knew she was trouble, but … whoa, just whoa! She's going down!"
(Confessional: #Checkov'sGun.)
Quadesh: I knew Tilly was a meanie, but I didn't know she was an ultra meanie! This means war! (Quadesh looks serious). Now, Mist, I appreciate you sending me that message and making sure only I could read it … but that wasn't the right action to take. Even if the contract doesn't exactly forbid it, it was still dishonest and not something I'd have expected from you. Just keep that in mind next time, ok? Once you're out, you're out … now, time to fry a rat!
A while later the campers, besides Quadesh, were sitting by the shelter waiting for Tyler to call them for the challenge. Nobody was making eye contact with each other, and Larry was quick to comment on this.
"The scanner says the hostility level is over nine thousand." Chuckled Larry.
"I wanted to make that joke." Lamented Otis.
"You should have been quicker to the draw." Smirked Larry. "So, anybody feel like speaking, or should I just make a monologue to make up for your silence?"
"I don't feel safe speaking my mind while he is here." Mumbled Tilly whilst briefly glancing at Donald.
"And I'd rather not allow Tilly to twist me to her will." Stated Donald.
"And I'm hungry, we got any ice cream left?" Asked Otis.
"Here's some Oreo's." Said Larry as he tossed a pack of biscuits to Otis.
"Score!" Cheered Otis. "So, think we'll have another night time challenge?"
"I seriously hope not. Night time challenges suck." Muttered Larry.
"Here comes Quadesh … and she looks angry." Noted Donald as he spotted Quadesh approaching the shelter.
Quadesh marched towards the others and came to a stop in front of Tilly.
"Need something?" Asked Tilly.
Quadesh responded by kicking sand onto Tilly.
"Ack! Quadesh, what the mierda was that for?" Exclaimed Tilly.
"For being a nasty little rat and a lying demon." Scowled Quadesh. "You've been playing me and everyone all game and only now have I learnt it. I knew you were bad, but never this bad."
"What are you talking about?" Frowned Tilly.
"I'm talking about how you voted off Mist for no reason, I'm talking about how you backstabbed Harvey, your 'boyfriend', for your own gain, I'm talking about how you lied to me and Joanne to pit us against each other and make us look like idiots … I'm talking about how you taunted Xadrian about his broken leg as a way to get him to hurt himself so you could be one step closer to the prize, you filthy communist!" Roared Quadesh.
Inwardly Tilly was panicking, but she managed to keep a straight face, just barely.
"What proof do you have of any of that?" Asked Tilly coolly.
"I'm glad you asked." Smirked Quadesh as she took out the letter. "This letter was sent from the Playa in a message in a bottle by a good friend of mine. It's written in hieroglyphics, a text I can read, and confirms what I have just said. I Admit I don't totally approve of this method of information, but I certainly appreciate it!"
"You … you … you could have just written that yourself!" Scoffed Tilly.
"And where would I get the paper or pen? We're on a wild island." Smirked Quadesh.
"… Ok, fine! Yes, I did that stuff! But I didn't want to! Mr. Stabby forced me to do it! He took me to areas without cameras and threatened me!" Insisted Tilly while forcing some tears out.
"… Those are fake tears…" Thought Larry.
Quadesh seemed to get an idea and continued to speak.
"Funny you should say that … this letter also says you stabbed yourself and tried to frame Donald." Lied Quadesh with a straight face.
Tilly was silent for a moment before she roared in anger and lunged at Quadesh.
"Give me that paper! Now!" Ordered Tilly. "Nobody else can read it!"
"Why do you want it so bad?" Teased Quadesh.
"That paper is ruining my game! Give it to me!" Yelled Tilly.
Quadesh was silent for a moment before she grinned.
"The even funnier thing is … the letter didn't mention anything about you stabbing yourself or what happened last night." Teased Quadesh smugly. "You're busted."
Tilly froze in horror while Otis started to laugh.
"Heheheheheh! Oh man, where's the popcorn when you need it?" Exclaimed Otis before he fell over and continued laughing on the floor. "HAHAHAHAHA!"
Tilly looked nervous as everybody, besides Otis who was still laughing, flared at her.
"You lying little toe rag." Growled Larry.
"Mess with a Youngblood, you go down." Frowned Donald.
"Checkmate and touchdown." Said Quadesh coolly. "Anything to add Otis?"
Otis chuckled as he got to his feet.
"Yeah, I hope this moment gets put on YouTube." Grinned Otis.
"You … why … how … you…" Stammered Tilly before screaming. "AARGH! This is wrong!"
At that moment Tyler nervously approached the campers while holding a red flag.
"Err … um … sorry if I'm interrupting anything, but … err … it's challenge time." Said Tyler awkwardly. "I'll just, err, be going now … carry on…"
Tyler awkwardly shuffled away while the campers were silent.
"Let's do this." Said Larry. "I don't care who wins as long as it's not Tilly."
"Agreed." Nodded Donald.
(Confessional: Oh that Tyler!)
Donald: (He lets out a big sigh of relief). I guess there is a God. Hopefully now I can patch things up with Otis, if he wants.
Tilly: Urgh! This ruins my plan! … But I can still make this work; takes more than some rat at the Playa to take me out! There's immunity, and the Chris Idol, and probably a bunch of other methods as well! I'm not done yet. (Tilly is silent for a moment). Mierda! This isn't fair!
Otis: Looks like Tilly is a naughty little girl. But am I going back to Donald? … Nah, he might get rid of me like he did with Edith, you never know.
(Challenge Field)
The five campers were soon gathered at the challenge field, ready to compete for immunity. Set up in the centre of the field was a row of five chests, each one with a picture of the face of tone of the campers on it. Leading off from the chests were three dirt paths, one to the East, one to the West and one to the North. Chris stood before the tweens and flashed a grin to the camera.
"Before we start today's awesome challenge, I'll need the immunity necklace back." Stated Chris.
Tilly walked forwards and handed the necklace to Chris which he hung on a pegged pole.
"It's a matter of opinion if your challenges are awesome or not." Stated Tilly as she re-joined the small crowd.
Chris frowned, but composed himself.
"Welcome to your penultimate challenge campers. Today we must ask ourselves a question, what is more important … Brains, Brawn or Beauty?" Asked Chris.
"Brawn." Stated Otis.
"Beauty." Said Tilly as though it were obvious.
"Brains." Added Quadesh.
"Divided opinion it seems." Noted Chris. "Well, today's challenge shall answer the question. See these five chests? All you have to do win immunity is open the chest with your own face on it."
"Ok, that's easy enough." Said Otis as he took out a bent paperclip.
"Lock picking does not count Otis. You have to use keys or it will not be considered a victory." Stated Chris firmly.
"Darn." Pouted Otis.
"Now, where are the keys you ask? Simple, at the end of each path … but getting them won't be easy. Today, you have a choice which challenge you face. For the smart players, a Brain challenge lies to the East. For the touches, a Brawn challenge is up North. And for the pretty ones, a beauty challenge is towards the West. There is a classic camper at each challenge area to give you further details." Explained Chris. "You can give up on one and go for another if you want, but that would cost you time … so choose wisely and play to your strengths."
"So, basically this is a race where we can't see many of our opponents?" Asked Larry.
"Bingo." Nodded Chris. "Anyway, everyone gather by the chests and get ready to start on my mark."
The tweens did as they were told and readied themselves for the challenge. Chris meanwhile took out his air horn.
"Also, before we start the challenge I have two things that need to be said." Stated Chris. "First of all, today is the last day that the Chris Idol is valid. It is still hidden somewhere out there, but if nobody can find it by the time of the elimination ceremony tonight then you'll have missed your last chance to use it. If you want it, time is your enemy."
The campers looked a little nervous about this announcement, particularly Tilly.
"Also, it is my pleasure to announce the last major gameplay twist." Grinned Chris.
"Oh bloody hell, what is it this time?" Groaned Larry.
Chris was silent for a moment before he spoke.
"The winner will be getting five hundred thousand dollars as we all know … but the campers who place second and third will also be getting a prize." Revealed Chris. "Second place gets one hundred thousand dollars and third place gets twenty five thousand dollars. Just a little incentive to get you to try your hardest to get to the finale."
All of the final five were interested by this announcement; it made losing the finale seem like not a total loss, assuming they got there.
"Anyway, with that being said … GO!" Announced Chris as he sounded his air horn.
The campers were quick to dash off in the direction of their chosen challenge. Larry and Otis ran towards the Brawn Challenge, Donald and Quadesh headed off towards the Brain Challenge, and Tilly scampered off towards the Beauty Challenge.
"This is gonna be a great episode for ratings." Chuckled Chris.
(Confessional: I'm a beauty, obviously.)
Tilly: Looks like I'm the only one going for the beauty challenge. That's fine; that way nobody is gonna get in my way while I compete.
Otis: I may be a genius and totally drop dead gorgeous … but I felt like challenging myself, so Brawn it is! Besides, I knew Donald wouldn't go for that one.
Donald: Tilly knows how much trouble she is in. Ah, today is going really well so far.
Larry: Brawn seemed the easiest, so it was the obvious choice. I mean, on the off-chance Tilly is immune, I might be a target … maybe.
Quadesh: Time to put my extra credit studying to good use!
(Playa Des Losers)
Mist was in her room reading a book. She and the most of the other losers had been watching the episode on TV, but when her plan came to fruition she had left the TV room and retreated to her bedroom in shame.
"… I could have thought that through better." Murmured Mist. "Quadesh is right, it was a really underhanded and low tactic…"
There was a sudden knocking on Mist's door.
"Mist, you in there?" Asked Joanne.
"The door is unlocked, come in." Called Mist.
The door opened up and Joanne entered the room, closing the door behind you.
"Why did you come up here? You missed Quadesh's rant at Tilly … it was both terrifying and engaging. Something scare you again?" Asked Joanne.
"No, I just wanted to be alone for a while." Admitted Mist. "I am feeling shame."
"What are you ashamed of?" Asked Joanne. "Is this about the time Veedle caught you watching that Pony show?"
"No, not that." Blushed Mist. "It's … you saw my message in a bottle … Quadesh is right, it wasn't a very nice thing to do. I mean, yeah, Tilly could be seen as a meanie, but I'm out and it's not my right to affect the game anymore … my emotions got the best of me and I acted rashly and irresponsibly…"
Joanne let out a relieved sigh.
"I thought I was the only one who thought that and I didn't want to be the only one who thought so." Admitted Joanne. "But be proud you made a strategic move … sure, it was kinda unethical, but then again strategy generally is."
"But…" began Mist.
"But your feeling shame right? Well, so are a lot of other people. Kelly and Ub both feel bad for how they acted and so do many others. Almost everyone did something they regret … so, welcome to the club." Chuckled Joanne. "Best you can do is make an apology and try not to let it get you down. If everybody felt morose and sad about things they did wrong then everybody on the planet would be mopey and gloomy."
"… I guess you're right. I'll apologise to Tilly when, or if, she gets here. Maybe I'll say sorry to Quadesh too…" Murmured Mist. "In the meantime, I think I'm gonna just read a few books, I'm in the mood for a quiet day in."
"Have fun. As for me, I've got to work on Edith's portrait. Take care." Said Joanne as she exited the room, closing the door behind her.
Despite the fact is was close to raining on Stranded Island, it was somehow still very sunny at the Playa Des Losers. Charles and Zanna were taking advantage of the nice weather and were both in a rowing boat in the water a short distance from the shore; deep enough to go fishing, but not deep enough to be in any danger at all.
"This is safe, right?" Asked Charles as he readied himself to cast out his line.
"Of course it is sweetie." Assured Zanna. "I'd never put you in danger; I know how much you don't like deep water. Thanks for agreeing to fish with me."
"Anything to make you smile." Said Charles warmly.
"Flattered." Blushed Zanna with a giggle. "Every day I spend with you, I become less and less addicted to my cellphone."
"Happy to help." Grinned Charles. "So, I cast it out like this, right?"
Charles cast his line out and the lure sank down into the water.
"Yep, that's the way." Confirmed Zanna as she cast out her own line. "Ah, so relaxing."
"It sure is." Agreed Charles as he, after a moment of hesitation, put an arm around Zanna.
Zanna could only giggle as she lightly cuddle up against her boyfriend.
The two tweens sat for a few minutes in cosy and relaxing silence. After a while Charles spoke up.
"Zanna, I need your opinion on something." Admitted Charles.
"What is it?" Asked Zanna.
"… Who do you want me to vote for in the finale?" Asked Charles.
"Why are you asking me? It's your decision." Reminded Zanna.
"I know … but I can't decide, and knowing how I am I'll just second guess myself, panic and then cast a throwaway vote." Admitted Charles. "Between is, you're the calm and confident one … who should I vote for?"
Zanna gave Charles an affectionate nuzzle.
"Charles my dear, you sell yourself short. It's not the finale yet, you have plenty of time to decide. It's your choice and your choice alone who you vote for. I'm sure you'll make the right decision and ask a great question during your turn during the ceremony. Believe in yourself, and above all … enjoy the experience." Said Zanna gently.
"… You are indeed good to me." Blushed Charles.
"It's what I do." Said Zanna sweetly.
"Ok then, I'll keep calm. Your words always help calm me down … too bad you didn't make the jury, huh?" Mused Charles.
"You win some, you lose some." Shrugged Zanna. "Now, come here and give me a kiss … please."
"With pleasure." Blushed Charles.
The two tweens leaned in and gently, but lovingly, smooched with all worries forgotten.
Next Time: The tweens compete in the different challenges and realize this isn't a challenge to be taken lightly. Another person is voted off.
Idol Statistics
Owen idol- Makes your vote worth two votes (USED BY NED)
Gwen Idol- Subtracts two votes from your total (USED BY JOANNE)
Heather Idol- Get information on the next challenge. (USED BY XADRIAN)
Duncan Idol- Vote for two different people. (USED BY DONALD)
Bridgette Idol- Get a two minute head start in a challenge (USED BY ZANNA)
Harold Idol- Immunity from being voted off but gives your team a disadvantage in the next round (USED BY DONALD)
Beth Idol- Gives your team an advantage in a challenge (USED BY XADRIAN)
Tyler Idol- Gives another team a disadvantage (USED BY BETILLA)
Ezekiel Idol- Stops two others from voting (USED BY KELLY)
Chris Idol- Immunity from being voted off (STILL IN PLAY)
Geoff Idol- Lets the user sit in on the other team's voting ceremony (USED BY CHARLES)
Noah Idol- Immunity from being voted off but makes the user swap teams (USED BY ZANNA)
Izzy Idol- Sit two opposing people out from a challenge (USED BY LARRY)
Lindsay Idol- Subtracts half the votes cast against the user (USED BY KELLY)
Cody Idol- Receive Assistance in a challenge by one of the original TDI campers (USED BY DONALD)
Justin Idol- Remove three votes that were cast, but be unable to see who they are cast against. (USED BY XADRIAN)
Eva Idol- Choose 3 people to change recast their votes for a different person (USED BY EDITH)
Katie Idol- Hurl the eliminated camper out of a catapult (USED BY TILLY)
Sadie Idol- Hurl the eliminated camper out of a catapult (HELD BY TILLY)
