Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama.

Note: Wicked fast update alert! Once again, I started tying and simply couldn't stop! My huge imagination almost feels like that of Goo from Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends sometimes. Thus sure will be a chapter to remember. Why? Read on and find out, I won't keep you waiting!

Don't stop running!


(Forest Trail)


The five campers ran as fast as they could along the forest trail. Rai and Ruth were in the lead, but Cy was not too far behind them. Ollie and Fosley bought up the back of the pack, but both looked determined to not fall behind. Any place but last was fine, but each camper was aiming for first due to how Chris had said the rankings today would affect the next challenge. The five had not come across any obstacles yet, but it was surely just a matter of time until they did.

"Legs, don't fail me now!" Exclaimed Rai.

"I'd rather they did so that I can come first!" Called Cy.

"Any place but last is good enough for me." Said Ollie as he began to slightly pull ahead of Fosley.

Fosley did not take kindly to Ollie putting him in last place and quickly grabbed a rock off the ground and threw it at Ollie. It hit the nice guy in the back of the head and made him stumble, allowing Fosley to overtake him.

"Ow! Watch it!" Yelled Ollie.

"Oh, I'll watch it alright … watch you take the Boot of Shame." Sneered Fosley. "If you've proved to be one thing this season, it's slow … mentally and physically. You'll never catch me, or the others!"

"We'll see about that!" Said Ollie as he sped after Fosley and the other three campers.

"Uh oh! Pits, dead ahead!" Exclaimed Rai.

"Better than arm pits." Joked Cy.

"Even Michael Schumacher wouldn't take a pit stop there." Agreed Ruth.


(Confessional: Lewis Hamilton might though.)

Rai: This is a challenge where speed matters most. I'm may be a little slow at school, but on my feet you can call me Billy the Whiz, or something. Point is, I think I can handle this challenge. Ruth may have problems though, so it falls to me to help her however I can; as long as neither of us place last, we'll be fine.

Fosley: With he stakes so high I'd say dirty tricks are totally justified. Besides, when have I not done dirty tricks?


Rai and Ruth leapt over the first pit trap without any problems at all with Cy following them. Fosley and Ollie both jumped it, Fosley trying to hit Ollie into the pit but failing.

"Why take me out?" Asked Ollie, glaring. "You'd stand the best chance against me in future challenges. Could you really beat the other three?"

"… Shit, you're right." Muttered Fosley as he grabbed another rock off the path. "Guess I'd better get rid of somebody else!"

Fosley hurled the rock forwards and it hit Cy in the back of the head, right as he was about to jump over another pit. Cy fell forwards and landed in the pit trap.

"Aw, come on!" Complained Cy.

"Later dude!" Teased Fosley as he leapt over the pit.

Ollie screeched to a halt by the pit.

"Don't worry Cy, I'll get you out. Just let me find a vine or something." Assured Ollie.

"No. I'll be fine; I'll catch up." Insisted Cy. "You just keep going!"

"Ok, if you're sure." Saluted Ollie as he ran onwards after the other three.

Cy grabbed the rock embedded walls of the pit and began to climb up slowly but surely.

"Just a set back. Just a mild set back." Muttered Cy.


(Confessional: Worse than an animal crossing pitfall.)

Cy: Free falling downwards into a pit … not fun.


While Cy fell behind and Ollie and Fosley made up the middle of the pack, Rai and Ruth ran at the front of the pack, aiming to keep it that way for as long as possible. The pit traps had ended and now some wooden logs were laced in the trail, some laying down and some positioned vertically so as to create some possible problems for the racers.

"I love this auto elimination twist!" Cheered Rai. "This might have just saved us!"

"Unless there's a mental challenge planned." Stated Ruth as she ran alongside Rai.

"Oh, boo." Pouted Rai. "Well, we'll be fine today at least. I'm sure everything will be fine and dand-OOF!"

Rai had ran into one of the vertical logs while her attention had been focused on Ruth.

"… Ow." Said Rai as she slid down to the ground.

"No time for resting." Stated Ruth as she yanked Rai up to her feet and, putting an arm around her shoulders, helped her run along. "We have to keep going. You may want to watch where you're going."

"Don't worry, I'm ok … I think." Slurred Rai in a daze. "Nothing in my head that could be damaged. Let's keep going!"

Due to the Brawns going at a slower pace it wasn't long before Ollie and Fosley caught up to them.

"Give it up Brawns, nothing will stop me placing top of the leader-board." Warned Fosley. "We can do this the easy way or the hard way."

"He might throw a rock at you." Cautioned Ollie.

"Really? Well then, let's rock and roll!" Declared Rai.

"Yeah!" Added Ruth.

Further back along the trail Cy had gotten out of the pit trap and was sprinted along as quick as he could go.

"They can't have gotten far. Time to get back in this!" Exclaimed Cy.


(Confessional: Watch out for that log!)

Ollie: I obviously can't come last, but if Cy goes out it'll be bad for me. Yet, I can't spare the time to assist him … this challenge is gonna come down to both speed and luck.

Fosley: If the Brawns keep making stupid mistakes like that, and as they are Brawns they will, I'll have a clear path to the finish line. The steriods are out of my system, but I can with this with or without them.


Rai and Ruth had managed to pull ahead again and spotted the entrance to the caves up ahead. Next to the dark maw of the caves was a basket of five flashlights.

"One leg down, four to go!" Cheered Rai. "We're making good time.

"Yay." Declared Ruth. "I think things are looking up-AAAARRRRGH!"

Ruth had unknowingly stepped into a rope snare, and was now being dangled upside down a few meters off the ground, her ankle caught in a rope attached to a tall tree.

"OMG! Ruth, are you ok?" Asked Rai.

Ruth was stony faced and crossed her arms.

"Oh no, I'm just peachy. I just love being suspended upside down in mid-air, it's great fun. Can't you see me laughing?" Asked Ruth in pure sarcasm.

"Hold on, I'm coming." Said Rai as she grabbed a sharp rock and began to climb up the tree. "I'm not leaving my Brawn Buddy hanging … metaphorically or literally!"

"Please hurry, I'm not a girl who enjoys hanging around." Stated Ruth.

Rai climbed up the tree and began cutting at the rope with the rock. As she did this Fosley and Ollie ran by and up to the basket of flashlights.

"So long suckers!" Sneered Fosley as he dashed into the cave, flashlight in hand.

"Sorry! If this weren't auto elimination I'd help you!" Called Ollie apologetically as he ran into the cave after Fosley.

"Hurry up Rai, we're falling behind!" Yelled Ruth in a flat tone.

"I'm cutting as fast as I can! I'm not exactly a girl who cuts regularly!" Exclaimed Rai.

There was a silence, with only the sounds of cutting rope audible.

"That came out wrong." Noted Rai.

"It sure did." Agreed Ruth.

Cy ran by, and couldn't help but chuckle.

"I'd love to hang out with you guys, but I have a challenge to win." Teased Cy as he grabbed a flashlight and ran into the cave, looking confident.

"Hurry up!" Pleaded Ruth.

"Almost got it!" Assured Rai.

CRACK!

The rope snapped and Ruth fell down to the ground.

"Ouch." Said Ruth in monotone.

Rai cheered and jumped down from the tree, grabbing a flashlight and passing the other one to Ruth once she was back on her feet.

"Ok, lets go! We can still catch up!" Said Rai confidently.

"Good thing we're brave girls who aren't scared of the dark." Noted Ruth as she follows Rai into the dark cave. "Flashlights help."


(Confessional: Will anybody be able to maintain the lead for more than a few moments?)

Cy: I'm back in this! I'm pretty good at seeing things in the dark, so even if my torch goes out, I ain't gonna struggle like the others might.

Fosley: If the Brawns are gonna be having difficulties and falling behind, I ain't gonna complain. They are threats, and neither really deserve to be here.

Ruth: That sucked … a lot. But we can still make a comeback!


(Dark Caves)


As little daylight was able to piece the darkness within the caves, the flashlights the campers held were an invaluable piece of equipment. The caves had no direct way through and the caves were twisty, uneven, and had multiple routes through. The main problem for the campers was finding their way, but none of them were going to throw in the towel. Fosley was in the lead and was fumbling his way through the dark cave system, his torch providing less light than he had wanted.

"Slow and steady, but with a bit of brisk pace. No way are the others gonna overtake me." Muttered Fosley. "Still, this may be a little closer than I'd like it to be."

Fosley spotted some puddles up ahead, and shrugged indifferently.

"Wet shoes are well worth being immune." Stated Fosley. "Caves, no problem."

Fosley speedily walked through the puddles, none of them posing any problem to him...

SPLASH!

… Except for the puddle that was deep enough to submerge Fosley to the top of his goatee once he stepped into it.

"Ack! Cold!" Yelped Fosley, thrashing around a bit.

Fosley managed to climb out of the deep puddle, now dripping wet, and scowled.

"Where's that f*cking exit." Muttered Fosley, flicking his flashlight on only for nothing to happen. Huh? … Oh please no..."

Due to being submerged in water, Fosley's flashlight was no refusing to work. It was officially busted.

"Dammit! Sh*t! Sh*t!" Cursed Fosley, stomping his foot.

"Watch your step." Said a voice in the darkness.

Fosley heard footsteps run by him in the darkness, but they vanished as quickly as they arrived.

"Ok, I may not be able to see, but I can still hear. Just gotta follow anything that sounds like it could come from outside, or near the exit." Muttered Fosley. "This is unfair."

Fosley ceased his complaints and began to carefully feel his way forwards, listening for anything that sounded suspicious.


(Confessional: Semi-alone in the dark.)

Fosley: Fine, forget the flashlight, I can win this through my non visual senses! I hear everything; nothing gets past me!

Cy: I don't know why, but I find the darkness of caves very refreshing. Maybe it's just me?


Ollie was nervous as he made his way through the dark cave. Every single time he heard a sound that was not him, and sometimes was him, he would shine his flashlight towards in it case someone, or something, was sneaking up on him.

"Calm down Ollie, there is nothing here. Nobody would jump you, except Fosley, and he's not armed and is weaker than you." Said Ollie firmly to himself. "Chill. Out."

Ollie adjusted his beanie hat and walked onwards, carefully manoeuvring over some rubble as he went.

"How much further does this cave go on for? Will I end up in a dead end? Is there a bear in her?" Muttered Ollie. "Calm down Ollie, it's gonna be fine. The others will be more focused on getting through the caves and surviving the race than attacking you."

Ollie ducked under a low hanging stalactite.

"The paranoia is real. It's as if Cloaky is still here." Mumbled Ollie. "But I don't need to worry about that; I just need to make sure I don't place fifth."

Ollie jogged onwards, lightly picking up speed.


(Confessional: At least there are no Kryll or Locusts in those caves.)

Ollie: I wish I had some kind of radar, or maybe a brighter torch. But, I'll make do. I'm pretty sure I'm not in last lace, at least. I just gotta buck up, man up and keep it that way.

Cy: Whoa, it's like a cave in here … oh wait, it is! Huhuhuhuh.


Rai and Ruth were making their way through the dark cave tunnels slowly and steadily. However, they had already come across four dead ends and Rai was starting to feel stressed.

"This is bad! This is very bad!" Exclaimed Rai, sounding shaky. "We're lost! We have noway out! The boys are probably all far ahead of us; oh, we're doomed! What are we gonna do?!"

"Rai, snap out of it!" Said Ruth firmly, skipping Rai. "Terrible sorry, but it had to be done."

Rai blinked and began to calm down.

"Y-you're r-right. I needed that." Agreed Rai. "But what are we gonna do? Even with our torches, we're more lost than a penguin in the Sahara desert!"

"First, take my hand." Ordered Ruth. "That way we won't get separated."

Rai did as she was told and held Ruth's hand.

"Now, we're going to keep very quiet and listen for sounds. Things that sound like they'd belong out in daylight or at the edge of a cave. If we can't see, we'll listen." Stated Ruth firmly. "Now, no more talking."

Rai saluted, almost dropping her flashlight.

The two began to listen and walk in the directions of any suspicious sounds they heard and began to slowly make progress towards the exit.


(Confessional: Sometimes it's good to just listen.)

Ruth: (She shrugs) Somebody had to keep her quiet. Panicking solves less than nothing, usually.

Rai: See, we're a true dream team. I held Ruth out of a rope trap, she helps me through the caves. Give and take baby, give and take. (Rai pauses). You know, I've not had a true breakdown or felt dead inside for a while now, so this is just peachy!


Cy jogged through one of the cave tunnels. His flashlight had plenty of battery left which made it easy for Cy to make progress. And sure enough progress was made because Cy soon enough came across the exit of the cave.

"Hell yeah!" Cheered Cy as he ran out into daylight. "Huh, what's this?"

A basked was set up on a pedestal. A sign by the basket instructed the campers to put their flashlights in the basket.

"Must be so the stragglers know how many people are ahead of them." Noted Cy. "No problems here."

Cy placed his flashlight in the basket and ran onwards at full speed.

"And away I go!" Declared Cy.


(Confessional: Sweet daylight!)

Cy: Told ya the cave wouldn't be a problem.


About a minute after Cy had ran onwards at full speed Ollie exited the cave.

"Oh, finally! I wonder what position I'm in currently … hopefully third or higher. That give me some room for error." Remarked Ollie.

Ollie put his flashlight into the box and jogged onwards down the marked path.

"Second place? So far, so good." Nodded Ollie as he sped on his way.

Half a minute later Rai and Ruth exited the cave.

"Freedom!" Exclaimed Rai as she and Ruth put their torches into the basket. "Ah, sweet, sweet daylight. Never leave me again!"

"No time for hammy celebrating. We've still got a race to not lose." Stated Ruth. "Let's go!"

"Right behind you!" Agreed Rai. "And maybe ahead of you too!"

A minute after Rai and Ruth went on their way Fosley exited the cave, looking wet and angry, but relieved to be done with that leg of the race.

"Urgh, finally." Muttered Fosley. "Good thing I wasn't the only one struggling, surely."

Fosley placed his flashlight into the basket and noticed four flashlights were already in it.

"What?! Last place?!" Gasped Fosley in horror. "No, no, no! This won't stand! I gotta get a move on; I've come too far and worked too hard to lose now!"

Fosley sprinted down the marked trail as fast as he could possible go.


(Confessional: Not just a cave story.)

Fosley: Thankfully the next section is snowboarding, and I've done that a few times before. I hope those guys enjoy their lead, because it wont last very long. Too bad for them, they are in my season.

Ruth: Keep calm and carry on. Oh how fitting that saying is right now.

Ollie: I'm not sure who is ahead of me, but I'm hoping that if it's anybody, it'll be Cy. He's neither a Brawn nor an arrogant bully. Things are starting to look up; hopefully it can stay that way for a little while longer … and maybe even longer than that.


(Recently Installed Snowy Mountain)


Cy arrived at a ski-lift that went up up the top of the snowy mountain; the air was getting cold and snow was on the ground. After grabbing a snow-board and taking a seat on the ski-lift Cy could only say one sentence.

"How the f*ck is this possible?" Asked Cy in bewilderment.

Indeed, the other campers were also confused and made this clear as they took their seats on the ski-life, snowboards in hand.

"Did Chris bribe mother nature with a lot of green?" Asked Ollie.

"… I need to pay more attention in geography." Noted Rai.

"… I won't ask. I don't think my notebook is big enough." Declared Ruth.

"Wait, so they're selling mountain now? And installing them too" Asked Fosley flatly. "… Somewhere, a realist is crying."


(Confessional: Anything is possible with a hammer and some duct tape!)

Rai: I bet there's a simple explanation to how Chris did that and I'm just too dim to see it. Better hit the books when I get back home and see what I'm not getting.


Cy reached the top of the snowy mountain and hopped off the ski-lift, snowboard in hand. He glanced down at the snowy mountain side and winced.

"Didn't Chris mention explosions?" Gulped Cy. "Not cool."

Cy then noticed sign nearby and walked over to read it.

"Hmm, 'bumping other players off course is encouraged'..." Read Cy. "Eh, I'm in the lead, so that's irrelevant."

Cy then noticed Ollie's ski-list was closing him, and a bit behind him were Rai and Ruth, with Fosley getting onto the ski-list a little behind them.

"Gotta go!" Exclaimed Cy as he got secured into his snowboard and kicked off over the side.

Ollie got off the ski-lift and began to fumble as he tried to get his feet securely into the snowboard. This gave Rai and Ruth the chance to get closer on their ski-life.

"We can see you Ollie!" Called Rai.

"I'm gone!" Yelped Ollie as he sped down the snowy mountain just as Ruth and Rai got off their snowboard.

"Ok, let's share a snowboard. It'll save us time." Suggested Rai.

"Good idea." Agreed Ruth. "That sign says we can bump people … oh, idea! We can use the second snowboard as a club."

"Awesome idea!" Nodded Rai. "You stand behind me and hold on; I'll steer and you whack. Itll be like Mario Kart Double Dash, but with snowboard!"

"Fun." Noted Ruth.

"Aha! There you are!" Yelled Fosley as he jumped off his ski-lift.

"Yikes! Let's gogogo!" Exclaimed Rai.

Rai kicked off down the slope with Ruth jumping onto The snowboard and holding onto Rai tightly. As they sped off Fosley got his feet secured onto his snowboard.

"Game on!" Yelled Fosley as he sped down the hill after his competition.


(Confessional: Snow worries!)

Fosley: The fact Rai and Ruth are so good at working together is exactly why one of them must leave today, and I am sure Cy and Ollie agree. Sabotage is no option since I cannot come last, but since Ruth swims like a brick it shouldn't be long before she either slows down enough to fall into last place irreversibly, or nearly drowns and gets medivacked. Either way, my game is aided.


Cy sped down the mountain, going fast but making sure he didn't hit maximum speed so that he'd be able to have control over steering.

"Heh, this is easy." Chuckled Cy, sounding cocky.

BOOM!

Cy had spoke too soon as he had bumped into a bomb disguised as a snowman and got sent flying through the air and landed in a heap on his back.

"Ow." Whined Cy as he sat up. "Urgh, gotta keep going."

As Cy got back onto his bored Ollie whizzed by him.

"Hi Cy! Bye Cy!" Called Ollie.

"Ollie!" Dude! The snowman are explosive!" Yelled Cy, cupping his mouth to ensure Ollie heard him.

"Thanks for the warning!" Yelled Ollie in response.

Ollie was now in the lead, but Cy kicked off and began to pick up speed again, securing him second place … for now.


(Confessional: Never trust a snowman!)

Cy: Anna, Elsa, I do not wanna build a snowman. (Cy grumbles)


"We're on your six!" Called Ruth.

Cy glanced back and winced as he saw Rai and Ruth slowly catching up to him, with Fosley catching up to them.

"Ollie, I envy your so much right now." Sighed Cy as he leaned and increased the speed he was going at.

The snowman around them began to explode on their own accord, sending snow and carrot nsoes everywhere, which made it hard for the campers to see what was going on. Fosley began to slowly pass Rai and Ruth.

"See you later chumps." Chuckled Fosley.

"Not today!" Smirked Ruth.

BAM!

Ruth struck Fosley with the snowboard she held which knocked him over and sent him rolling. This led to him starting to turn into a 'human snowball' which logically made him gain speed and start to roll ahead down the mountain very quickly.

"… Oops." Noted Ruth.

Cy noticed snowball-Fosley coming towards him and made a sharp swerve to the right to avoid him.

"Hey, watch it!" Yelled Cy.

Cy and the two Brawns stayed as they were, fast and steady, while Fosley sped down and down towards the bottom of the mountain.

"Well … that happened." Said Rai awkwardly.


(Confessional: Can't have a snow section without a human snowball!)

Ruth: Wasn't me!


Ollie was the first to reach the bottom of the snowy mountain and screeched to a halt, almost falling over in the process. Ollie put his board on a board rack and saw the flag marked trail continued nearby leading back into the warm forest.

"Seems pretty straightforward." Noted Ollie.

Ollie then heard a rumbling and glanced back towards the mountain. He let out a girly scream and dived to the side as the now giant snowball containing Fosley rolled past and smashing into the board rack and tree right by it. When the snow dust settled Fosley lay on the snow pile, looking dazed and out of it.

"Um … yeah. I'll just be … going now." Said Ollie as he ran off down the marked trail.

A few moments after Ollie ran off Cy reached the bottom of the mountain and tossed his snowboard to the pile of snow.

"Shiver me timbers." Joked Cy as he sprinted off.

Fosley began to gain his bearings and sat up, shaking his head.

"Urgh, that was awful." Groaned Fosley as he got to his feet, stumbling a little. "I'm still in this. No chump here will beat me!"

Fosley ran off down the trail, zig-zagging wearily, as Rai and Ruth reached the bottom of the mountain and tossed their boards away.

"Let's keep it up! Fosley is dead ahead, and third and fourth are good enough!" Declared Ra as she ran off.

"Enjoy fourth, because I'm coming third!" Added Ruth as she ran right behind Rai. "Or higher, maybe."


(Confessional: The campers went over the mountain, to see what they could see!)

Fosley: I never want to do that again! The fact it indirectly helped me is irrelevant. Too bad I didn't hit Ollie; that would have been most beneficial.

Ollie: I'm not sure how Fosley ended up in that snowball … but, maybe I don't want to know.


(Rapid River)


A river was flowing through the forest. It had a reasonably fast current, and the sides of the river were marks by flags, showing the only way forward in the race was to follow the current. Ollie arrived at the river first and wasted no time jumping in.

"Banzai!" Yelled Ollie as he dive bombed into the water and began to lightly swim down the river, letting the current guide him.

After Ollie had swam upriver somewhat Cy arrived and dived straight into the water, and began to put full effort into swimming fast so that he could catch up with Ollie.

"Hmm, the water is great." Noted Cy.

Cy swam onwards, gradually getting closer to Ollie. Meanwhile Rai and Ruth arrived at the river and Ruth screeched to a halt.

"Um … this may be a problem." Gulped Ruth. "I can't swim."

"Think you can just run along the river bank?" Suggested Rai.

SARA descended down from above.

"I'm sorry, but that is against the rules. You need to go in the water." Stated SARA, before it flew up and away again.

Ruth looked nervous while Rai racked her brain desperately for an idea.

"Ah! Got it!" Exclaimed Rai. "Ruth, do you trust me like I trust you?"

"I do." Nodded Ruth.

"Then allow me to do this." Said Rai as she got behind Ruth and gently held the petite girl around the waist. "I'm gonna let us fall back in the water, ok and then I'll swim us both down the river. I will not let you go. Is that ok?"

"If it keeps me in the race, it's more than ok." Nodded Ruth. "But it'll slow you down."

"I'm not gonna leave you." Said Rai as she backed them both to the river. "Ok legs, do your thing!"

Rai let herself, holding Ruth, fall backwards into the river.

SPLASH!

The two girls submerged and then surfaced as Rai began kicking her legs hard, propelling them slowly but surely down the river, the current helping them along.

"Thanks Rai." Said Ruth gratefully. "But, won't this slow us down a lot?"

"It's gonna be close." Murmured Rai. "But all my other friends got voted off. I'm not letting the same happen to you."

"You won't, but I will." Called a voice.

Fosley had arrived at the river and dived into it. Even with an injured arm, he was able to go faster than Rai and Ruth.

"See you guys at the end of the river … or, maybe, the Boot of Shame." Said Fosley as he swam onwards, fully focused on winning.

"We'll catch you! There's still the fifth leg!" Retorted Rai.

"Oh yeah, there is. I forgot about that." Noted Ruth.


(Confessional: Maybe some floaties would help?)

Fosley: Just as I suspected, the Brawns are basically out of the race now. I had my doubts about this auto elimination twist, but you know what … it's really working out for me.

Rai: Harmony, Eliza, Wishami, John and Moe … all close friends of mine I couldn't do anything to save from elimination. Ruth is still here though, and this time … I can do something! I have the power to keep Ruth in the game, and I'm gonna g Super Saiyen with power, ya hear me?! Ruth shall still be here this time tomorrow!


Ollie still held the lead further along the river, his his lead was soon to disappear as Cy swam alongside him, starting to pull ahead.

"Don't you feel tired?" Asked Ollie in bewilderment. "I feel exhausted!"

"Oh, I am." Said Cy, looking weary in his eyes.

"Then how come you're swimming so strongly?" Asked Ollie.

"The threat of elimination and the million dollars being close gives me power." Said Cy dramatically.

"… Forget a yellow star, Superman gets his powers from money." Chuckled Ollie.

"Now you're getting it." Grinned Cy. "I'd love to stay and talk, but I've got a challenge to win. Chris did say our placement today affects the challenge tomorrow, so … yeah, later."

Cy swam onwards, gradually pulling ahead of Ollie and going round a bend in the river, and briefly out of Ollie's sight.

"… Maybe I'll just let the current carry me along while I catch my breath." Decided Ollie.

Ollie was gentle carried along by the current and went round the river bend after Cy, and then saw that up ahead a mesh had been put into the river and the flag marked trail continued to the left side of Ollie's perspective of the river. Cy was also climbing up the mesh and making his way to the slid river banks. As Ollie gentle bumped into the mesh Cy got onto dry land and panted for breath, looking tired.

"See you at the finish line." Called Cy as he jogged away, looking tired.

"Let me just … rest first." Murmured Ollie.

Ollie stayed where he was for about ten seconds, getting his energy back.

"I wouldn't advise resting until after the challenge is over." Called a voice.

Ollie winced as Fosley swam towards the mesh, and quickly grabbed onto the mesh himself and began climbing.

"Might as well take it nice and easy Ollie. The Brawns are basically sunk … maybe literally." Stated Fosley.

"Not falling for that old trick." Replied Ollie.

"Suit yourself." Shrugged Fosley as he too began to climb up the mesh.

It was slow progress and hard work, but both boys climbed out of the water and up the wet mesh, and got to dry land, Ollie getting there first.

"See you at the finish line." Called Ollie as he ran off as quickly as he could.

"It'll be you seeing me there." Replied Fosley as he got off the mesh and ran after Ollie.

"… Isn't that what I just said?" Asked Ollie.


(Confessional: Ah, grammar.)

Cy: Woo! Nothing can stop me now!

Ollie: I have never felt more tired…


Rai paddled along on her back, holding Ruth and ensuring she did not fall into the water unsupported. Ruth had began using her arms to help propel them along; it wasn't much, but it did speed them up just a little, and every little helped.

"Think we're nearly there?" Asked Ruth.

"I sure hope so; we can't let those Brains get too far ahead." Replied Rai.

"Good thing we're fast on our feet." Stated Ruth.

"Yeah, but we're slow in the water and that's really-OOF!" Yelped Rai as she bonked into something metallic. "Ow! What was that?"

"It's a mesh. We need to climb it and wander over yonder." Noted Ruth. "Shall we?"

"And get out of the water? You bet!" Nodded Rai.

The two Brawns grabbed onto the mesh and, in a vastly quicker time than any of the Brains, climbed up to solid ground. After a brief moment of rest to catch their breaths, the two brawny young women were off like rockets, sprinting full speed down the flag marked trail.

"Look out Brains!" Began Rai.

"Here come the Brawns!" Finished Ruth.


(Confessional: Anything could still happen!)

Rai: Teamwork. It works.

Ruth: I hate water. (She shudders)


(Hedge-maze)


Cy arrived at a hedge maze, where the flag trail ended There was one entrance to the maze and a sign post next to it, which he began to read.

"Hmm, 'do not cut around the maze, or face disqualification, elimination and boot-ication' … well, that was obvious." Shrugged Cy. "This should be a-maze-ing, huhuhuhuh."

With enough being said Cy entered the maze. Not long after he did Ollie and Fosley ran up, Ollie slightly in the lead.

"Don't follow me." Said Ollie.

"Why would I? You'll just go the wrong way." Sneered Fosley.

Ollie and Fosley ran into the maze, promptly going down different paths. Just a few brief moments later Rai and Ruth arrived and didn't pause for a moment as they entered the maze.

"I just heard Ollie and Fosley, we've almost caught up." Noted Ruth.

"Good." Nodded Rai. "But, it's not over yet. Let's stick together; we'll be less lost by default that way."

"Good plan." Agreed Ruth.


(Confessional: Better a maze than a bunch of maize.)

Ollie: Just one more leg, and this challenge will be done … and all five of us are in the maze … this is gonna be messy, I can tell.


Cy rounded a corner and ran down a long corridor of the maze at full speed. Speed was key it seemed, and Cy was unwilling to slow down.

"Gotta keep going, gotta keep going." Muttered Cy. "It'll all be over soon."

C rounded and corner, and groaned as he came across a dead end.

"Doh! That's the third one so far!" Complained Cy. "… Maybe I should take this slower, even if just a little."

Cy, now walking, set off down a different corridor. As he did so a vertical log suddenly sprung up in front of him. Cy raised an eyebrow.

"Looks like a trap." Noted Cy. "Good thing I wasn't running."

Cy chuckled as he walked onwards.

"I guess there is a benefit to going slow and steady." Mused Cy.


(Confessional: Forget slow and steady. Just don't fall asleep like the hare did.)

Cy: Playing for immunity is one thing, but playing to avoid instant elimination? It messes with your head.


Fosley was briskly walking through the maze, considering every fork in the road. He seemed like he knew what he was doing.

"Wonder what chump is gonna lose today. Hopefully a Brawn, but really I'd shed no tears if it was Cy." Mused Fosley. "I bet the audience are sh*tting themselves in suspense. Heh."

As Fosley walked along he heard a click.

"Wat's that?" Muttered Fosley.

BAM!

"AAAAARRRRGH!" Squealed Fosley as he fell over, clutching his balls, due a vertical log trap having trigger beneath him. "Damn you Maclean..."

Fosley weakly got to his feet, shuddering in pain, and continued to walk along.

BAM!

A 'F' shaped wooden carving on a spring shot out of the hedge in front and Fosley and struck him on the forehead, leaving an F shaped bruise.

"… Ow…." Said Fosley before he collapsed.


(Confessional: F is for Fosley after all.)

Fosley: (He still has an F shaped bruise on his forehead, and his left eye is twitching). Just minor setbacks … minor setbacks.


Ollie jogged along through the maze, totally unsure if he was close to the exit or not.

"Maybe this way?" Said Ollie as he turned down a corner. "Or … was it the other way?"

Ollie slapped himself.

"No! Stay calm, stick to your choices and just let happen whatever happens." Said Ollie firmly. "The challenge is not over yet."

Ollie rounded a corner, hoping to see anything but a dead end.

BAM!

Instead, he saw a boxing glove right to the face.

"Ow." Moaned Ollie as he collapsed. "That hurt … a lot."


(Confessional: Almost in the kisser!)

Ollie: I know it's the final leg of the challenge and the traps add to the stakes and drama … but come on, this is crazy!


Rai and Ruth ran alongside each other down a long corridor of the maze. So far they'd ran into a few dead ends, but were keeping it all together and gradually getting closer to the exit of the maze.

"Think the exit is much further?" Asked Rai.

"I don't know. I'd say it either is or isn't." Replied Ruth.

Rai pouted.

"You know, you could be a little more helpful." Admitted Rai.

"If I was a few feet higher I could be." Shrugged Ruth.

BAM!

A metal barrier had sprung up from the ground between the two girls; Rai had been able to avoid it and get to the other side, while Ruth … well, there was now a Ruth shaped imprint n the barrier.

"Ruth, are you ok?" Asked Rai sounding concerned,

"I'm fine. I'll be with you in just a moment." Assured Ruth.

BAM!

BASH!

WALLOP!

Ruth was pounding her fists against the barrier, but was only able to lightly dent it.

"Looks like we'll have to split up." Noted Ruth. "Oh bugger."

"I could try to climb over the barrier." Offered Rai.

"No, you go that and way, and I'll go this way." Ordered Ruth. "We'll meet up at the finish line. Ciao, and stuff."

Ruth ran off, leaving Rai alone.

"Ok Rai, you can do this. Takes more than a giant and nigh impossible to navigate maze to get you lost. Let's do this!" Exclaimed Rai.

Rai said nothing more and sped off further into the maze.


(Confessional: Dem pesky barriers.)

Rai: This is gonna be close. Be still me heart.

Ruth: Eh, no big deal. I'll just take a short-cut, or something.


(Finish Line)


Chris stood by the finish line (which was also technically the starting line), leaning against one of the posts holding up the colourful banner and relaxing.

"Ah, this is some good peaceful relaxation." Noted Chris.

The sound of helicopter blades was heard. Chris frowned as he looked up and saw SARA descended. The robot gently touched down and retracted its helicopter blades.

"Well the peace was nice while it lasted." Grumbled Chris. "Need something?"

"The five campers are closing in on the finish line." Stated SARA. "Just thought you oughta to know so that you can trn on drama high host mode."

"B*tch, I'm always in drama high host mode." Scoffed Chris. "How close is the camper in first place."

"Over there." Said SARA, pointing t the trail leading out of the forest.

Sure enough somebody has just ran out of the forest and was making a beeline to the finish line. With a triumphant look on their face…

Rai tan towards the finish line as full speed.

"Skills!" Cheered Ra as she crossed the finish line.

"And Rai places top of the leaderboard, and will stick around for another day!" Announced Chris.

"Not just her; two more people are coming right now." Noted SARA.

Sure enough two more campers ran out of the forest and kept to the trail, speeding towards the finish line. Looks of relief on their faces due to not being in last place, closer to the end ran…

Ruth and Cy.

"I'm gonna beat you!" Teased Cy.

"Not if I stay in front of you, you're not." Replied Ruth.

And then Ruth tripped over a rock, which allowed Cy to overtake her.

"Yes!" Cheered Cy as he crossed the finish line.

"Eh, third place will do." Shrugged Ruth as she got to her feet and crossed the finish line.

"Great job Ruth!" Smiled Rai, patting her friend on the back.

"Thanks." Said Ruth, a small smile on her face.

"What, no love for me?" Smirked Cy.

Rai and Ruth looked awkward.

"Um … good job." said Rai, making an awkward cough.

"Second is very good." Added Ruth.

Chris could only grin at the suspense.

"And then there were two; Fosley and Ollie have not yet crossed the finish line. Who will scrape through to the final four, and who will fall short?" Asked Chris dramatically.

"We're about to find out because here comes somebody else." Stated SARA,.

Indeed, somebody else has ran out of the woods and was wearily approaching the finish line. Tired and drained, maybe, but despite all that…

Ollie was on his way to the finish line.

"Thank f*ck!" Exclaimed Cy.

"I can live with this." Smiled Rai.

"Liv sure can." Added Ruth.

Ollie slowly progressed towards the finish line, a smile on his face. There was no sign of Fosley; he must have gotten stuck in the maze.

"It's finally over." Said Ollie in content.

"Over for you!" Yelled a voice behind Ollie.

Somebody jumped at Ollie from behind pinning him to the ground. It was Fosley, F shaped bruise on his forehead, and he looked at Ollie with a cold smirk.

"I told you, don't get in the way of what is mine, be it immunity or the million." Said Fosley firmly. "I could cause you more wounds right now than what you've already got. I bet you wouldn't want that, would you, and frankly neither would I. But sometimes to be rich and admired … you need to be the bad guy. Give up."

Ollie responded with a firm punch to Fosley's nose.

"Ow!" Hissed Fosley as he returned fire with a punch of his own.

In just a matter of moments Fosley and Ollie were grabbing and punching each other, kicking and fighting hard, rolling around on the ground with neither showing any sign of giving up. They were gradually getting closer to the finish line.

"We should help Ollie." Said Cy, punching a fist into his palm.

"Ah, ah, a, no can do." Smirked Chris. "It's a direct violation of contract and rules to interfere."

"He's right, it is." Agreed SARA.

This rule being laid out, the three safe campers watched Fosley and Ollie brawl viciously as the finish line got closer and closer.

"The money is mine!" Yelled Fosley. "Oof!"

"I think you're more in need of a large new shoe than money." Replied Ollie. "Ow!"

In what felt like hours, but was really precious few seconds, the two reached the finish line.

And one boy rolled over it an instant before the other did.

"We have our final four!" Declared Chris. "Barely scraping through to the next round, by an arm, is…

Fosley!"

Fosley weakly pumped his fist and cheered.

"Yes!" Exclaimed Fosley, looking exhausted. "Still got it!"

Cy, Rai and Ruth all groaned.

"That means that Ollie, though you've played well, overcome a lot and come so far … none of it matters because you are O-U-T!" Declared Chris.

Ollie said nothing, and just sighed quietly, looking tired.

"Everybody must report to Cirque De Elimination tonight for Ollie's elimination." Stated Chris. "Until sundown, you can all do as you please. That includes you Ollie. You can all head back to your camp."

Cy approached Ollie and offered him his hand.

"Fifth place out of twenty ain't bad at all." said Cy comfortingly. "Need a hand … mate?"

Ollie smiled, and accepted Cy's aide.

"Thanks." Said Ollie, as Cy helped him to his feet.


(Confessional: Heroes can't always win…)

Ollie: So, this is how it ends … Fosley beat me. I should feel awful, and sad, and miserable … so, why do I feel like smiling, despite everything? I just need a good sleep after a day like today.

Fosley: You lose, Ollie Holmes. Anyway, now that he's gone, I need to consider the next round. Cy has to be my finale opponent now; he's not no choice but to work with me, unless he wants Ra or Ruth to destroy him.


(Balanced Beauties Campsite)


Rai and Ruth sat in the area they had been hanging out in the morning. As before Ruth was doing Rai's hair.

"Well, we did it Ruth, we have made it to the final four." Noted Rai.

"We showed those Brains who was boss. And we'll show another one who is boss tomorrow." Agreed Ruth. "For right now, we are our own bosses."

"Totally." Nodded Rai. "But, I feel bad for Ollie. He did catch Fosley and save us from more harm … we would have beaten him anyway, but … it just feels a little unfair."

"Life ain't fair." Stated Ruth. "Sadly, real life can truly suck salad sometimes and the hero won't always win."

"I guess you're right." Admitted Rai. "I still don't like it though."

"Nobody does." Said Ruth, putting a third bun into Rai's hairdo. "Hm, looks like Moe isn't the only philosopher here."

"The more the merrier." Noted Rai.


(Confessional: Ruth, ever the realist.)

Ruth: Life ain't a fairy tale, even if I do know a prince.

Rai: Fairy tale or not, I have a prince in my life. Too bad Ollie is now a fallen knight, huh? But … if Ollie is the knight, Moe the prince, me and Ruth the princess and Fosley the evil warlock … who's the archer?


Ollie and Cy sat on the beach looking out at the waves.

"So, despite everything, despite how I opposed him and destroyed his façade … Fosley beat me. Well, it is real life and not a kingdom of idealism and magic, but it still bites." Muttered Ollie. "Strangely, I'm more upset about the Boot of Shame than I am about losing the million."

"Well, big shoes do hurt to get kicked by." Stated Cy. "But don't worry, I'll give Fosley hell."

"Glad to hear it." Nodded Ollie. "I may have lost, but … I got what I came for … finding myself and branching out from my twin. I've done more than I thought I ever could do, and I even have a girlfriend now who I'll finally be able to see again once I … um … land."

"See, there's always a good side." Grinned Cy. "After all … always look on the bright side of life, dodododo, dodododo!"

"Good one." Chuckled Ollie. "I once thought Monty Python was a person, and not a group name, strangely enough."

"It would be a badass name." Noted Cy. "Oh, and could you pass a message on to Diamond please?"

"Of course. What is it?" Asked Ollie.

"Tell her to pick out something she'd like to own, because once I win, I'm gonna buy her a gift." Grinned Cy.

"I'll be sure to tell her." Promised Ollie. "If it means anything, you've got my support."

"Oh, it does mean something." Nodded Cy.


(Confessional: A true hero doesn't give a sh*t about losing money … maybe?)

Ollie: So, this may be my last time using this thing, unless I can use it in the finale … no regrets!

Cy: I'm gonna miss that kid. Not just cuz he's cool, but also because now I have to put up with Fosley all by myself! (Cy groans) I'd almost rather take a Brawn to the end!


Fosley stood alone on the rood of the sandcastle. He looked up at the sky, which was getting dark and starry. Only a few more minutes and it'd be booting time.

"Sixteen down … three to go." Chuckled Fosley. "The million is close .. .so close I can almost taste it."


(Confessional: Did he just quote Spongebob?)

Fosley: Hey, even a competent player like me can quote a kids show if I feel like it. Ollie was who I'd wanted to face in the finale, but when it came down to me or him, it had to be him. He messed with me, and he got what he deserved. I'm sure Cy will be just as good a guy to face off against.


(Cirque De Elimination)


The final four, Ollie, Chris and SARA were all on the cliff by the Boot of Shame. SARA stood off to the side, while Chris had his remote in hand. Notably, the final four each held a toaster.

"… Toasters? Really?" Asked Fosley flatly.

"Yeah, you allergic to break or something?" Snarked SARA.

"Production ran out of bread, so we had to improvise." Stated Chris defensively. "It doesn't matter. Ollie, the time has come for you to go. Say your farewells, and stand on the X. You know how it goes."

"Don't worry, I do." Assured Ollie, groaning a little. "Give me two minutes tops."

Ollie turned to Ruth, the first person in line.

"You've played well Ruth in spite of everything n your personal life. You've shown me not all bullies are just thugs who enjoy hurting others. You're a good girl at heart."

"Thank you." Said Ruth, smiling a little

Ollie moved on to Rai.

"You may have had your ups and downs, a lot, but you know what Rai, I think you're a nice girl who just has had a few unfortunate circumstances. If Cy does not win, I'd like you too." Said Ollie, shaking Rai's hand.

"Count on it." Said Rai, saluting with her free hand.

Ollie and Cy exchanged a fist-bump.

"Thanks for clearing my name, dude." Sad Cy gratefully.

"Repay the favour by winning this game." Winked Ollie.

"Oh, you better believe I will." Grinned Cy confidently.

Ollie then looked at Fosley, who just rolled his eyes.

"Gonna rant at me? Say you hate me? Say karma will strike me down and all that cliché rubbish?£" Scoffed Fosley.

"Actually, no. Because … I do not hate you." Admitted Ollie.

Ollie paused.

"I pity you." Said Ollie firmly.

"… What?" Said Fosley, looking both puzzled and angry.

"You do such cruel things for your own selfish gain, always fusing on the money and your own ego. Yet, you ignored all the interactions, the nature and pretty much every aspect of the game aside from hurting other people." Said Ollie with a shake of his head. "Call me a fuddy duddy or a preach idealistic dumbass if you must, but even if you win this game … you'll have lost. I have nothing more to say."

Fosley looked unnerved for the briefest of moments, but just scoffed and crossed his arms, turning up his nose.

"Done with all the positive hippie stuff?" Asked Chris, looking bored.

"Yeah, I'm done." Assured Ollie. "I'll let myself out."

Ollie walked to the red X, stood on it and bent over.

"Ready or not Liv, here I come." Chuckled Ollie.

Chris rolled his eyes and pressed the button on his remote.

BAM!

The Boot of Shame swung into life and kicked Ollie hard in the ass. Ollie let out a yell as he was sent flying off into the night sky.

Soon enough Ollie was out of sight, and Chris turned to the remaining four campers.

"Well … you've made it to the final four." Smirked Chris. "I have to say, I believe some small congratulations are in order for this."

"Eh, save it for when I make the finale." Smirked Fosley.

"Ditto." Added Cy.

Chris grinned, ever so slightly sadistically

"Why wait?" Asked Chris. "Because…

...

you've all made it to the finale!"

There was a silence, and then Rai cheered.

"Woohoo! We did it Ruth!" Cheered Rai in triumph. "Booya!"

"Oh, cool." Noted Ruth. "Way past cool, even."

Fosley and Cy looked confused.

"I thought it it was gonna be a final two like normal." Stated Cy.

"Did I ever say it was going to be?" Asked Chris. "This is a final four, and I never said it wouldn't be."

"… Good point." Conceded Cy.

"Wait! You said it'd be auto eliminations until the finale!" Insisted Fosley.

"I did … I also never said it'd be more than one auto elimination before the finale." Teased Chris. "You guys can head back to camp; you'll need your rest for the finale tomorrow. I have an awesome challenge planned, haha!"

The campers headed off, nothing more needing to be said. Rai and Ruth were both smiling, Rai moreso than Ruth, Cy looked content and also seemed to be making plans while Fosley looked angry.

"I have to admit, that was a very well done twist." Noted SARA.

"Sometimes, I even amaze myself." Chuckled Chris in faux modestly. "Ah, I love being me."


(Confessional: ZOMG! Did ya see that coming?!)

Cy: So, I made it to the finale. Hell yeah! No more strategy needed, just gotta beat the other three. I've got a balance of Brain and Brawn, so this should be nice and possible.

Fosley: Crap! This is terrible! Now I have to go against Rai and Ruth, the two toughest girls around! (Fosley fumes) No matter … I still have one trick left up my sleeve…

Rai: I did it! I overcame everything in my way … losing my friends, losing my meds, nearly losing my mind … but I did it … I did it! And best f all, Ruth made it too. But now all bets are off, because only one person can win. And .. it's gonna be me! (Rai grins and clenches her fist) Moe, I'm winning this in your name!

Ruth: … I actually made the finale? … Howe the f*ck did that happen? Well, I'm here and I'm gonna do what it takes to win this game and the million. I'm not a follows now … I'm the boss among bosses! And, I am going to win the last challenge … like a boss. I'm strong, so I have that going for me, right?


Chris and SARA stood on the cliff by the Boot of Shame, to give the outro.

"What a twist of an ending! Not only does nice guy Ollie go home right before the finale, but it's not a final two at all, but rather a final four! Oh, I can just hear the fans screaming in joy and anger!" Cackled Chris. "Soon we shall have our winner and see if Brain beats Brawn, or if Brawn is destined to beat Brain! Oh, this is so exciting!"

"I agree. Robots do not feel emotions, and yet I cannot deny I feel something in my CPU … it feels frantic." Noted SARA.

"See viewers, even the robot is excited. You won't want to miss this finale!" Exclaimed Chris. "but, e have to ask ourselves … can Fosley hope to beat his three stronger opponents? Will Cy's balance of Brain and Brawn help him win? Can Rai overcome one more trial, or will this be one she cannot conquer? Will Ruth bulldoze her way to the prize with sheer brute force? What is the final challenge? And … who is going to win the million dollars?! Find out next time in the grand finale of Total Drama: Brains VS Brawns!"

"Not with sixty percent more robot." Added SARA.


FINALISTS

Cy- The Creepy Guy

Fosley- the Quiet Douche

Rai- The Flirty Gymnast

Ruth- The Flunky Bully

Eliminated: Harmony, Boris, Eliza, Tyrian, Wishami, Liv, Sarge, Earl, Wittney, Diamond, John, Trey, Moe, Patsy, Bianca, Ollie


Ollie was without a doubt the main protagonist of the season. But I feel he sands out from my past main heroes because … he simply didn't start out as much of a hero, or player. Ollie started out as just another character, albeit a positive one. He was not game savvy or exactly a tough guy or a threat in any sense of the word. But I love me some character development, and Ollie had a lot of it. After writing him as just another player early on, I started to gradually ease him into the protagonist role by:

- His romance with Liv. Not only did Liv help him understand the game better and become slightly more competent with strategy and, basically, TD 101 , but Ollie helped her in return with her drug problems, showing his altruistic side. Indeed, Ollie became friends with shadier characters like Wittney and Cy and while they never lost their grey shades truly, Ollie didn't have t lighten them or darken himself to get along with them.

- Ollie's detective shtick wasn't just for comedy and such, he actually had some competence at it which kept the peace at his camp. With him around, Fosley could not do as much as he otherwise would have. Ollie's presence changed a lot for the better. This only naturally led into Ollie being The Cloaked Shadow's number one opposition post-merge.

- Ollie didn't always have to do big grand things to be a protagonist, sometimes it was just little things like a kind word here and there or being willing to listen to somebody. Plus, he talked down his twin rather than brawl when that would have been the easiest option.

However, Ollie was also a slightly grey hero too since nobody this story is 100% nice (save for Moe). Things that helped make Ollie far from a Gary-stu and more dynamic were.

- His occasional lack of patience and annoyance with things that served no purpose at all. Ollie could be short with people at times and not be shy about it.

- Ollie put catching Cloaky over his gameplay which not only made him look kinda dumb at times, but led to problems for himself and his allies due to his tunnel vision.

- Ollie could be a bit too idealistic and also a bit immature at times. Minor stuff, but minor things like this give characters edges.

But unlike many other protagonist of mine who, win or lose, beat the villain … I wanted Ollie to lose against the villain of his season. He destroyed Fosley's façade and gave him a huge amount of problems that were not easy to overcome and indeed nearly cost Fosley the game. But this is a dark and almost brutal real story, at times, and the hero cannot always win, so 5th is where Ollie ends up. But he'll be back with Liv, and to a guy like Ollie, that's a very worthwhile reward. All in all, I'd call Ollie my best protagonist thus far and he's been pretty well received despite his, rather intentional, slow start .. .so, that's good too.

Also OMG THE FINALE! Ho you gonna root for!?


Next Time: The finalists walk the Rites of Passage, remembering the fallen sixteen layers. Then, they are faced with their final trial...