Survivor of the 66

Chapter 27

Deceptive Prize

Vegeta stood with his back turned. What to do? It would be easy just to fly away and ignore her altogether. No.. that wouldn't be good enough. What was to prevent further attempts down the line?

"You and I need to have a discussion about a little something called boundaries," began Vegeta.

By this time Harley had motioned back to her feet. "You know what'cha need Mista V?"

"Nothing from you," to which Vegeta declared. "Anything I need I can take care of myself."

"That be your right hand, or are you a lefty?" Harley jokingly asked.

Vegeta found himself becoming increasingly annoyed by the second. "What is wrong with you woman?! Talking to you is like expecting a logical response out of a brainless pineapple!"

"Hey! You never know what ya may like until you've had a taste, just sayin'."

"Listen up, and listen well. Unless I call for you or address you directly, for your own sake I am going to ask that you stay away from me from this moment forward.. that clear?" When she didn't respond Vegeta looked in her direction. "Cat get your tongue?"

With a hand sitting upon her hip Harley lifted her other arm, revealing a set of handcuffs that she twirled around her index finger. "Got these from Red Robin.. or rather I kept them, that would be more accurate to say."

"And I should care because?"

There was a disappointed look on display. "You're really goanna turn down a good time aren't ya? But I guess it doesn't really matter now since your doctor friend is approaching."

"Gero?!" Vegeta made an immediate move to spin around, to his surprise there was no one to be found. "Are you going senile woman? There is no one here."

Turning back he would be met by Harley Quinn's lips pressing against his own, an unexpected maneuver which was quickly followed by Quinn forcefully reeling him in for a deep kiss. Feeling her tongue exploring the inner boundaries of his opening Vegeta forcefully lunged back putting a distance between her and himself. It was only after touching down that Vegeta realized she had locked his wrists together with the handcuffs. He effortlessly snapped them apart before tossing them away. Vegeta's patience had dwindled to its brink.

"You're really pressing it Quinn," Vegeta voiced with a hint of rising anger.

Harley seemed amused. "And you're playing hard to get." Tracing her tongue across her top lip Harley inched a half step forward. "I never imagined you would taste of a ravaging boar."

Vegeta tightened his fists, he had enough. It was clear his words of rejection were not registering, nor did she respect him or his set boundaries. Just before he was able to make a move the sound a tree branch crushing under foot echoed from near. Someone was coming, taking only moments for their face to appear past the waving trees in the clear Vegeta promptly murmured his name.

"Constantine.."

"Quinn.. Captain.. well, sweet damn," John Constantine spoke as he looked from the naked Harley Quinn to a shirtless Vegeta. Lifting a hand he lit the cigarette in hand before bringing it to his lips. Inhaling he closed his eyes, softly exhaling with a show of relief. "Sorry, was I interrupting something?"

Vegeta spat, clearly disgusted with all that had conspired; even going as far as to turn his back on the pair. "Come near me again, and I promise you that will be the last time you stand Quinn."

Saying no more Vegeta propelled himself into the air, vanishing with an explosion of speed in the blink of an eye. "So that just happened," Constantine remarked. There was no doubting it, his curiosity had certainly been tipped. "So, you goanna tell me why you're naked love?"

Harley shrugged. "Wardrobe fail."

Constantine could only grin in light of the given explanation, knowing that was not the truth. "You know, there are other ways of getting into someone's good graces outside of seduction, especially in regards to someone like Vegeta."

Harley huffed. "What's it mean to ya anyway? Aint like I asked for your opinion or anything like that."

"What's it mean to a bloke like me?" Constantine took another smoke. "Can't let you get an advantage over me. Tonight was you attempting to entice the captain, an act no doubt you were hoping would get you off of his naughty list. Furthermore your hope was that in the case we face another elimination ceremony he would not only vote against you, but in line with you. A fail altogether, this act of yours clearly had an opposite affect."

"Splendid," said Harley giving the thumbs up. "Aren't you just the awe inspiring detective."

"You want to get in the good graces of someone like him? You gotta gain his gain his respect, only way of achieving that is showing that you belong here," Constantine conveyed. "And by that I mean showing you are one who won't fall easily in the face of challenge; that coupled in with showing you have something to offer to this team as a whole."

Few words registered. "Whateva you say."

Constantine shrugged. "It's your choice to believe or not. Know this, if you don't start adapting to the preferences of those around you instead playing it to your own game, you'll find that door slamming on you sooner rather than later."

Harley seemed unbothered. "Heck if I care."

"Don't come grabbling to me at the next elimination event when the majority of the votes favor you; can't say I didn't give you a word of advice."

"Didn't ya hear? I don't give a damn." Constantine as he made a move to walk. He stopped after only a single step. Harley rolled her eyes in growing annoyance. "What'cha want now?"

"That Hattori kid was strolling a short distance behind me," Constantine felt the need to inform.

Harley didn't see a point to this information. "And..?"

Constantine raised an arm as to point directly at her. "You, you're indecent. For the love of us all, would ya put on some bloody clothes?"

"Pshph," Harley huffed in response. "Don't act like you don't like what ya see."

It was only in a moment's time that the two heard the whiff of a nearby bush, watching as someone stepped out into the clear. It was Heiji Hattori, the stunned teen looked on in disbelief, reaching for the first words that came to mind.

"I.. am I interrupting something?"

Silence ensued. Harley looked from Heiji back to Constantine with the swing of her hair. "Whelp, looks like you got some explaining to do."

With nothing more Harley trotted off, leaving a speechless Constantine and Heiji in her departure.

….

Hidden Swamp

The day's trials faded in line with the night, in its departure bringing about a new day. Luffy laid comfortably, dozed off in a deep sleep. Gradually a grin registered across his lips, a motion which was picked up by Flash who stood not far from where he laid.

"Wish I was wherever his dreams have taken him," the speedster noted.

"What's that?" asked Starfire who sat a short distance away.

"Oh.. I was talking to myself more or less. I saw Luffy over there smiling, was saying I'd love to be wherever he is right now," Flash clarified. He looked to the sky. "I mean.. being anywhere but here would be nice."

Starfire saw things differently. "It is not all that bad when you sit back and think about it."

Her words were unexpected "How so? Way I see it this is nothing more than a glorified prison disguised as a beautiful island"

"I just think of it as being on vacation."

"Don't forget the whole part about being held captive for Bat-Mite's entertainment," Flash felt the need to add.

"Come on, I can think of ten worse places and situations we could be in than this, and that is off the top of my head!" Starfire exclaimed.

"Yarouuughhhhhhh!"

Both Flash and Starfire turned in fright upon hearing their captain yelp out in pain. "LUFFY!" The two rushed to his side to see what had caused the uproar.

"Luffy, Luffy are you ok?" a concern filled Starfire enquired.

"Something hit me," Luffy went on to relay as he rubbed his head.

This put Flash on full alert. "Did you see what it was?"

Starfire worriedly searched the area abroad. "Could it be that an enemy is near?"

"Ahe..?" As Luffy motioned up from where he laid he stepped upon something, feeling the strength of its weight under foot. "What that?"

Curious, Luffy moved his foot aside to spot the item in question. It was a glass container. Leaning slightly he was able to determine there was something inside. It wasn't long before Flash noticed.

"What's that you got there?"

"Dunno?" responded Luffy who went on to reach for the glass container.

"That must be what hit Luffy in the head," Starfire assumed. "But where did it come from?"

"Given this is one of Bat-Mite's playgrounds there's no telling," Flash said.

Now in hand Luffy pulled the top cap off to reveal what was inside, bringing an immediate disappointment. "Auehhh… it's just a scroll," grunted Luffy.

"A scroll.. may I?" Starfire was interested in its content.

"Go ahead," replied Luffy who handed the scroll over.

Unwrapping it Starfire brought eye to a line of print, reading it with not a moment of hesitation;

'Happy Joys gentlemen and ladies! Today brings your greatest challenge, sculpted mind of a true survivor! With this print of information in the time in which you received lies the time that you have before the Goodies Grab is to begin!'

"So, how much time do we have?" Flash asked. "Does it say?"

"Let's see here.." Starfire rolled the scroll down in full. There it was, the bit of information she was hoping to find. "Ten minies."

"Ten minies?" Flash expressed an uncertainty. "You sure that's what it says?"

Starfire nodded. "Yep, yep. Look for yourself if you don't believe me."

Flash did just that to find what she had said was accurate. "Minies? Minutes maybe?"

"That'd be my guess."

It took Luffy only seconds to jump in realization. "Only ten minutes until it's time to collect!"

Starfire and Flash looked to one another, then back at their captain. "Time to collect?"

"The Goodies Grab, I'm goanna get the meat," Luffy proudly declared.

"What kind of meat?" asked Flash.

"Ahuho," shrugged Luffy. "Any meat. Sanji will make it taste great no matter what."

"So, Sanji some kind of cook?" Flash was lead to believe.

Luffy gave the confirming nod. "Yep."

"Count me enticed. I haven't had a decent meal since we arrived on this planet.. or wherever it is we are."

"None of us have," Starfire said. "Either way we must make haste. If the goodies grab is to take place in ten minutes we must alert our friends."

Luffy who fully agreed nodded. "Yep."

"Allow me," said Flash taking a stand. "I'll have everyone up to speed in no time."

With not another word Flash took off in a speeding display of a blur.

…

Silver Eyed Beach

There was no one within fifty feet of him. The only thing of company was the passing breeze. His ears perked, hearing its speedy descend from the sky above. Raising his hand, Beerus caught the falling item.

"A canister huh.." Curious as to where and who may have sent it Beerus looked upward. There was not a person to see. "Interesting."

There was only one thing to do in his mind. Ejecting the canister's lid Beerus pulled out what he discovered to be a scroll. "Now what have we here?" Standing upright Beerus read over its content. "Well.. ten minutes before the Goodies Grab?"

Taking a deep breath the god of destruction shrugged before pressing forward. "I guess I better go and alert the other inhabitants on this island."

….

Living Jungle

There were a number of moving parts, through it all Michelangelo had made his decision. "Here it come dude!" With the orange held firm in hand Michelangelo reeled his arm back before launching the fruit high into the air with one thrust. A few moments was all it took for the sequence to play out in full. Shaking his head Michelangelo clapped his hands in disappointment.

"Darn it! Missed em by a hair," Michelangelo voiced aloud.

"Come on, I was wide open!" Beast Boy shouted from a distance away. "You should have thrown to my side instead of trying to go to Brook again."

"Sorry, didn't see," apologized Michelangelo.

"You need to get your head in the game!" Beast Boy shouted.

At that moment Goku who was also present noticed something that appeared in the sky. "Yo Michelangelo! Heads up!"

Hearing the called warning Michelangelo looked up to spot an object falling from the sky upon him. Holding up his arms he caught the item as Beast Boy, Goku, and Majin Buu all made their way over.

""What is it?" asked Beast Boy.

"Not really sure," replied Michelangelo who twirled the canister in hand, a move which brought something to his attention. "Look! There's something inside."

"Don't keep us hangin', open her up."

"Sure thing."

Grabbing hold of the lid, Michelangelo forced it open with a strong pull, watching as the item that had been sealed away fell to the ground. "Oops."

"I got it," volunteered Goku who strolled over and picked up what he discovered to be a scroll. "Let's see.."

Gazing over the print in hand Goku read off the information. "Happy Joys gentlemen and ladies. Today brings your greatest challenge, sculpted mind of a true survivor! With this print of information in the time in which you received lies the time that you have before the Goodies Grab is to begin." Lowering his sights further brought eye to the final line. "Ten minies..?"

"That must mean ten minutes," Beast Boy figured.

"That's not much time!" Michelangelo yelped. "I haven't even decided on what I'm going to get!"

Goku brought a hand to his chin as he too gave thought on the matter. "Come to mention it, neither have I. Don't think I've really given it any thought to be honest."

"Time's a ticking guys," Beast Boy said snapping his finger. "On another note we better let everyone else know. I would hate for the ten minutes to expire without anyone else taking the time to have a pick in mind."

"Already on it," declared Michelangelo who sped off. "TEN MINUTES EVERYONE BEFORE THE GOODIES GRAB!"

….

Grave Yard Valley

Returning from his morning stroll Donatello returned to find Yusaku standing with a long sheet in hand.

"I don't remember seeing that before."

Naturally curious Donatello walked over to enquire about the item in hand. "Yusaku, what's that you've got there?"

Still looking over the written Yusaku responded. "It seems to be an invitation.. a message of sorts."

"A message? From who?"

"Can't say for sure, but given it fell from the sky I'd imagine it was Bat-Mite who delivered this scroll."

Donatello inched a foot in. "And.. what's it say?"

"The Goodies Grab," replied Yusaku lowering the scroll to his side. "We have ten minutes."

"What?! Only ten minutes?!" Donatello was astonished. "That's not much time."

"It isn't, and given that I fully expect that Bat-Mite expects that we'll all have our decisions made. We better go an alert everyone else."

Donatello agreed. "Let's split, we'll regroup with everyone back at this very spot."

"It will be so," Yusaku nodded.

With no time to spare the pair parted ways with the intent of alerting all teammates of the situation.

…

Natural Forest

Stepping forward Wonder Woman charged with a slashing swing of her sword, pivoting to the opposite side as she opted to do the same. Adrenaline rose as she leaped into the air, spinning with her blade fully extended she glided back to the ground like a rotating propeller. Upon touching down she heard its fall from above.

"…" Holding out her sword Wonder Woman watched as something fell onto the center of her blade. "A canister?"

Reeling her sword in Wonder Woman brought the item into hand. Removing the canister's lid she viewed the content that was inside. Unfolding the scroll she read from the top line all the way to the bottom.

"Well.." began Wonder Woman who rolled the scroll back into form after reading over its content. "My training will have to be put on hold."

…

Seasonal Plains

Superboy did as asked. Now in the instructed spot he held up an apple in his left hand. "This good enough Usopp?!"

"Little bit higher!" Usopp instructed from afar.

"Gotcha!" Superboy would go on to raising it even further. "How bout now?"

Usopp gave the confirming thumbs up. "Perfect! That'll work just perfectly." In a moments time the scatter of a few tree branches behind spun his attention elsewhere. "Sailor Moon?"

"Hey, what are you guys doing?" Sailor Moon curiously asked.

"Target practice," Usopp simply put before springing out a sling shot. "Got to be at the top of my game for today's challenge."

"What if today's challenge doesn't require you to shoot anything?" Sailor Moon questioned

Usopp shrugged before electing to take aim. "Better safe than sorry, besides this is one way to keep myself not only occupied but entertained while we're on this island." One sharp look, Usopp had the target on lock. Before he could take his shot Superboy unexpectedly lowered the apple. "Hey! What are you doing?! You have to hold her steady."

"But look," said Superboy who pointed upward. "There is something falling from the sky!"

"I don't see anything," Usopp said.

Sailor Moon looked up just in time to have something hit her right in between the eyes. "Ouuhhhghheh!" Reaching for her face she screeched out in pain. "That HURT!"

A second was all it took for Usopp to notice the rolling object that had made contact with Sailor Moon's face. "Huh.. what's that?" Leaning he reached down to grab it as Superboy came trotting over.

"What is it?" Superboy asked.

"It's a canister. Don't know what's inside or where it came from for that matter."

"Only one way to find out, we should open it," Superboy suggested.

"Already ahead of you," replied Usopp who flicked the lid off before pulling out the scroll that was inside.

Superboy's face lit up. "Could.. could it be a treasure MAP!"

That thought had yet to cross Usopp's mind. "A possible treasure map?! Now we're talking!" Both were ecstatic as they were hopeful with this finding.

Sailor Moon who had regained herself walked over as she rubbed her face where contact had been made. "What's that you guys have there?"

"Will know momentarily," answered Usopp who rolled out the scroll to its final length.

"What's it say?" an anxious Superboy asked.

"Happy Joys gentlemen and ladies! Today brings your greatest challenge, sculpted mind of a true survivor! With this print of information in the time in which you received lies the time that you have before the Goodies Grab is to begin," Usopp read off as he noticed one final line further down. "..Ten minies? Huh?"

"That must mean we only have ten minutes," Sailor Moon gathered from it. "Gee, that's really not much time."

"You can say that again." Superboy agreed.

A huge smile appeared on Sailor Moon's face. "Whelp, good thing I decided on what I was going to choose last night. So I have nothing to worry about."

"Well that makes one of us. I have not even the slightest clue for what I'm going to choose! The fact we only have ten minutes to decide really doesn't help," Usopp said.

"That pretty much sums up me as well," Superboy admitted.

Without so much as a warning Sailor Moon turned her back on the pair before taking off running.

"Hey, where are you going Sailor Moon?!" Usopp called

"While the both of you take the time to decide, I'm going to go and tell the rest of our team about the beginning of the Goodies Grab!"

As she had appeared from the brush of the tree branches before, she too fell out of sight after making contact for a second time.

…

Bye Bye Bat Base

Bat-Mite sat eased back in a rocking chair that heaved back and forth, watching as the last bits of sand scaled down in the sand clock set out before him. Bat-Mite's eyes filled with anticipation.

"It is time!"

Leaping from the comfort of his seat Bat-Mite landed with a thump. Reaching down he pulled up a mirror which he held out in front. Releasing his hands the mirror floated in place. In one quick motion he flossed his teeth before giving himself two sprays of cologne. Taking one last look at the mirror he adjusted his cape and cowl to his liking.

"Alrighty, now we're all set for business!"

Bat-Mite clamped his fists together which brought about a shocking boom, in its wake bringing all combatants from each island to the room.

"We.. we're back at the Bye Bye Bat!" Chopper shrilled unexpectedly.

"What are we doing here?" questioned Chibiusa who was just as surprised.

Usopp who wasn't far from the two chimed in. "You guys make it sound like you didn't know we would be coming here."

"Huh? Should we have?" Chopper asked.

"Did you not receive the message?"

"Message?" questioned Heiji who overheard them. "What message?"

"Well, in our tribe's case Bat-Mite sent a scroll letting us know we would be brought here for the Goodies Grab," informed Usopp.

"We're here for the Goodies Grab?!" Chibiusa voiced in excitement.

"We never received one of those.. at least not to my knowledge," said Heiji.

"You certain about that?" Saguru from tribe red questioned. "Our tribe's captain, Wonder Woman was sent one as well."

"This scroll, do you still have it?"

Saguru looked to his tribe leader. "Wonder Woman, mind if I see that scroll?"

"I see no problem in that. I have no further use for it since we're already here." Wonder Woman handed it over to Saguru who in turn handed it over to Heiji.

Saguru watched in silence as Heiji read over the scroll word for word. Heiji's eyes narrowed after a number of seconds, almost as if there was inner intent. Saguru blinked. "Wonder what's got him all invested in that thing?"

Dr. Gero had tuned in to what had been said. "Could it be?" There was one person to question. "Vegeta."

When he didn't initially respond Dr. Gero pressed once more. "I know you heard me."

"..What?" responded Vegeta who didn't bother to face him.

"Did you.. receive a scroll detailing our scheduled visit here?"

".. Possibly," Vegeta would not completely deny.

"And you elected not to tell any of us?"

"I fail to see the problem.."

"Well, I for one would have taken the little time we would have had to put some thought into what I would choose," Heiji stated.

"Everyone has known about this grab of the goodies for a time now, so if you hadn't already made up your mind on what you want that is your problem, and your problem alone," said Vegeta in counter.

The subject would be changed altogether by something Chopper would point out after noticing. "Look guys, over there!"

"Huh?" Upon turning her head Chibiusa noticed as well. "Who are those people?"

Constatine took note of the individuals in question, eyeing not only their apparel but the equipment that they carried along. "I reckon these bunch are a camera crew."

Little time did it take for others to notice what was going on around them. "Hey'a Bat-Mite, what's up with all the camera dudes?" asked Michelangelo directing his question to the games host.

"Well what a fine question you pose Michelangelo," replied Bat-Mite who took flight to the center of the room. "One which I will most certainly answer after everyone has taken a seat at their respective tribes' bleachers.

Not a second after speaking this everyone found way to their seats. Bat-Mite would then drop to the ground. "First of all, welcome back to the Bye Bye Bat Base! Obviously you all know why you're here, yes?"

"Time for the goodies," spoke Luffy anxiously rubbing his hands together.

"That it is," confirmed Bat-Mite.

"Would have been nice if a certain someone had let us know ahead of time," Chopper murmured under his breath.

Heiji nudged Constantine after taking a seat next to him. "So, you goanna tell me what happened between you and Ms. Sunshine last night?"

"Already told you kid, nothing happened. Just a simple wardrobe malfunction," Constantine replied.

"As if I'm going to believe that."

"Now, onto the other matter at hand, by now you have all noticed the other guests that are here in attendance," Bat-Mite refereed to.

"The video crew, no way we could miss em," Raphael noted.

"What do you think they're here for?" Sailor Venus questioned.

"That one should be pretty obvious," commented Piccolo.

"Huh?" Sailor Uranus looked in the direction of her teammate. "You know why they're here? Tell us."

"Look for yourself," Piccolo responded.

The two Sailor Senshi did just that. "They.. the cameras are pointing at us," Sailor Venus discovered.

"My question, why?" Uranus was less than thrilled with this reveal.

Piccolo grunted. "Neither of you should be surprised; after all we knew this moment was to come eventually."

Venus was puzzled. "What are you talking about?"

"The GodTube," Piccolo put in short.

"BINGO!" shouted Bat-Mite who spun in place. "Piccolo hit it right in the boom!"

Uranus rolled her eyes. "I had forgotten all about that."

"That's right, we're so going to be on TV!" Cyborg couldn't help but voice his thrill.

"Didn't know you were so anxious to have everyone witness me one up you," Nightwing teased in response.

"Hey!" Cyborg glared in his comrades direction, gaining a humored chuckle from him.

"Only stating facts buddy."

"Talking a big game huh? Thought we was on the same side," Cyborg said.

"Bat-Mite specifically said one person would be standing at the end," Nightwing was quick to remind.

"Oh ya? Hate to break it, but that aint goanna be you," Cyborg confidently declared. "Can guarantee you won't even out last yours truly."

"Bet!" Nightwing stated.

During the heat of it all Beast Boy found himself looking for someone specifically out of all who stood among the camera crew. "Hey, anybody see that one dude who was here when the GodTube was initially brought up?"

"Oh, you mean Gowasu?" Goku took a look himself. "You're right, I don't see him anywhere. I wonder where he is."

"You actually think he'll be here?" questioned Trunks.

"Well Bat-Mite did say he had a huge hand in networking for the GodTube so.." Goku could only imagine he would make another appearance.

"On another note wasn't it said that there would be representatives from every universe involved with the broadcast." Trunks referred back to the camera crew. "Hey Beast Boy, you recognize anyone from your world over there?"

Taking a quick sharp look Beast Boy shook his head. "Nope. Even if they are from my world I've never seen them before."

Once more Bat-Mite would re-grab the attention of all in attendance. "While our great cameramen and women get set up what do you say we begin? It is time for the long awaited Goodies Grab!"

Michelangelo would go on to raising his hand. "So how is this going to work? Do you have a specific system for who gets to choose first?"

"A great question Captain of Tribe Pink," Bat-Mite responded.

"Pink Elite! We're the Pink Elites!" Michelangelo felt the need to remind.

"Yes of course," said Bat-Mite showing little care. "As for the posed question; this is how it is going to go. To get us started I will call off the names of an entire tribe's members separately and enquire to them what they want. If their current points are enough to have what they ask for, then they will get what they ask for. When a name is called that person will have thirty seconds to either; A. choose something from the presented categories, or B. hang onto their gathered points until they accumulate enough to get something later that you may not be able to afford now."

"Thirty seconds only?" Harley Quinn questioned. "Well that aint much time to decide on something. Not even close. How bout' giving everyone at least five minutes?"

"Nope, nope, nope! Not happening!" Bat-Mite instantly shot down. "Everyone had an entire night to skim through the given Batalogues. Plus you had ten minute warning before being assembled here."

"What ten minute warning?!" Harley yelled back in challenge.

"The one Vegeta failed to relay to the rest of us," Dr. Gero chose to convey.

"Well aint that just jollies?" pouted Harley.

"How entertaining, that tribe there," Robin remarked at the sensed turmoil.

"You can say that again," agreed Superman.

"How do we know how many points we have individually?" Nico Robin asked. "To my knowledge that information was not given."

"When you are called upon refer to your key cards that were given to you. They will light up with the amount that you hold in your possession," Bat-Mite informed. "From there you will be free to choose anything that is within your range. If you are uncertain of a price, go ahead and name the desired, I will in turn let you know if you can afford the sought."

"Simple enough,"Aquaman voiced.

"Bat-Mite, what if our first choice is rejected? Can we opt to choose something else instead of waiting for the next Goodies Grab?" asked Nami.

"Yes, that will be allowed," Bat-Mite replied before elaborating further. "The tribe to go first, I will call each of you alphabetically by name. Sound good? From there the process of how things are going to play out should make sense. To speed up the process the remaining tribes will go through a different process for selection."

"A different process?" questioned Launch.

"Yes, note cards," began Bat-Mite. "The majority of you will be given a notecard, once you receive the said slip of paper along with a writing utensil you will have the opportunity to jot down what you would like as your goodie prize."

"Think I have a pretty good idea for what I'll choose," Sailor Venus coursed in mind.

"Without further ado, let us begin!" Bat-Mite leaped, gliding back with a soaring touch. "To rehash; there are six different sections, or in this case 'worlds' all of you will have a chance to select your desired goodie from. Of course the six worlds in question are the universes from which you all come. Once you select a universe you will then choose between six different options. The options in question are as followed; entertainment, medical supplies, weapons, food, clothing accessories, or materials for the purpose of building."

"Still haven't decided on what I should get," Nico Robin noted.

"Same," Nami had no problem admitting.

"Any questions...? Good, we start!" Tilting his head Bat-Mite looked toward one team in particular. "Tribe Black, as victors of the previous bout I will grant you all the luxury of kicking starting this well anticipated event."

"Alright!" Gohan shouted with a fist pump.

"Now that's what I'm talking about!" Franky was most pleased.

"So which one of us will get to choose first," Akako wondered.

"Alphabetical order," Yusaku reminded.

"In that case that means," Akako began before getting cut off.

"Yes Koizumi Akako, you are first," Bat-Mite confirmed. "Now if you would, please refer to your key card."

Doing what was asked of her, Akako held out her card to find a glowing print on it. "150P," Akako read out.

"Yes, one fifty 'P'," said Bat-Mite.

"But what does it mean? Is that the amount of points she has accumulated?" Sailor Mars asked in hopes of clarification.

Confirmation came in the form of Bat-Mite nodding. "And with those points you will be free to select anything that falls under or even at that number. In the case you sight something that is beyond your point max you do have the option of not choosing anything. By doing so you can gather more points through the coming challenges, and when the next Goodies Grab hits by then perhaps you'll have enough for the sought," Bat-Mite explained.

"Pretty self-explanatory stuff," Franky commented.

"Koizumi my dear, are you ready to begin?" asked Bat-Mite.

"I wouldn't want to wait another moment."

All cameras were now on her. Bat-Mite gave her the thumbs up. "The stage is yours."

Seeing the camera's drawn upon her this only further enforced what she would choose. Without a moment's hesitation Akako spoke what resided high on her mind. "I want the most elegant makeup set throughout all of the Universe!"

"WHAT?!" That was the resounding sound that came from the majority of her tribe mates.

Buggy found himself mildly humored. "Only a matter of time before that clown gets eliminated. She'll last another round or two at most."

"Clown? Seems right up your alley," remarked Robin who leaned back in his seat as he placed his arms behind his head. "Perhaps you two can trade notes?"

"Watch your tongue, or soon you'll find yourself without kid," Buggy retorted.

"I'm tormented," voiced Robin showing little concern.

Bat-Mite looked Akako deep in the eyes. "Is that truly what you desire? Remember, you only get to choose one thing per Goodies Grab."

"I'm sure," Akako reinforced.

Bat-Mite held out his hand. "Your wish is my command."

A snap of a finger was all it took for a packaged box to appear in Akako's lap. Trafalgar looked in her direction, an enquiring expression on full display. "Of all things to select from; why choose something such as that?"

"To play good is to look good," to which Akako replied.

"Wouldn't it be the other way around?"

"The cameras are rolling. I can't afford not to look my best," said Akako finishing it off with the flick of her hair.

"Do you really value your appearance in such a regard that you would pick utensils for your looks over items that are geared toward surviving?"

Akako looked away. "I don't expect someone like you to understand."

Conversation between the two would halt. Ready to continue Bat-Mite directed eye to the next person in line to choose.

"Everyone's favorite mercenary, Deathstroke," Bat-Mite spoke. "It is your turn."

"He's not my favorite anything," Sailor Mars murmured under breath.

Slade took no time in naming the sought. "I wish to have my rifle with five clips of ammunition attached."

"Granted."

As like with Akako, Deathstroke instantly received what he had asked for. "Now.. I'm in business."

"Donatello, have you decided on what you want?" asked Bat-Mite dropping focus on him.

"I have," replied Donatello nodding. "I wish to have my electric skateboard."

"Well of course."

Like the two before him Donatello too received what he had asked for. "Excellent, now we're talking!"

Next in line was none other than Franky. Now with his sights set on him Bat-Mite pressed for what he wished to have. "The stage is yours Franky."

"Cola!" Franky shouted. "I want ten stacks of cola!"

"If that is what you want, then it shall be so."

The moment the cold beverages appeared before him Franky wasted no time in reaching for a number of bottles before holding them out for his peers. "Anybody interested in a drink?"

"Count me in," Donatello accepted.

"I won't turn down an offer such as this one; right here Franky," Roshi said.

"Not so fast!" exclaimed Bat-Mite.

A now shocked Franky looked up at him. "What's the problem?"

"I failed to mention this before, but those of you who choose food or drinks as your goodies selection you may not use them until you are returned to your islands. That clear?"

"Ah.. what a bummer," Gohan voiced.

"No big deal, we can all have a drink once everything gets wrapped up here," said Franky making light of the situation.

"Moving on. Gohan you are up next," Bat-Mite informed. "Have you made a decision for what you will choose?"

Gohan nodded. "Well, we obviously need something to go with the drinks." Gohan would briefly glance in the direction of one of his teammates. "Donatello mentioned how much he loves Pizza, so.. how about ten boxes of cheese pizzas?"

"Granted."

In a split second the stack of pizzas materialized in Gohan's lap. Just as they were to slide off of his lap he reached for them, positioning them into stable condition. "Phew, close call. That could have certainly resulted in a disaster."

The fumes of the pizza's scent flowed in all directions, gaining the attention of everyone. Michelangelo's mouth began watering as he rubbed his hands together. "I know what I'll be getting with my bat points."

"I'll get the wings," added Beast Boy who was just as enticed.

"Next up, Sailor Mars," Bat-Mite announced.

"Me?" Mars questioned. "Aren't we going in alphabetical order of our names? Raven should be the one."

"I voided the 'sailor' and simply referred to the planet you are in representation of," Bat-Mite explained. "Now.. what say you Sailor Mars?"

There was a long pause. After coming to a decision Sailor Mars responded. "The nights have been chilly. A blanket would be appreciated."

"Is that want you want?"

Mars simply nodded. In moments a fine quilted blanket fell upon her face, bringing out chuckles from a few of her teammates.

"Oops," spoke Bat-Mite who placed a finger upon his lips. "I'll have to work on my aim. Anyway, moving on! The next subject at hand, Raven."

Having herself addressed, Raven looked up from where she stared. "There isn't anything I particularly need or want. But with this opportunity I should choose something, if not for me, then for my team." She thought on the matter for a number of seconds.

"Well.. what's it going to be?"

".. Fire wood," Raven finally decided.

"Good thinking," said Gohan.

"You can say that again," Yusaku agreed.

Raven received her prize in similar fashion to those of her tribe.

"Well if I didn't know any better, I'd say my turn has arrived," Roshi figured. "In that case I would like a nice lawn chair!"

"Getting straight to the point I see. It will be so."

Unlike everyone else's gained prize, the lawn chair appeared at the base of the bleachers. "Oh yaaa!" Roshi raced down to give it a look.

Keeping on schedule Bat-Mite continued. "Sailor Saturn, the floor is now yours."

"A note book," Saturn decided.

"That's right, she did say she wanted to get one," Chibiusa recalled.

"Really, that's it?" Sailor Mars was surprised. "Is that really what you want? There are so many other things that you could ask for that could be of more use."

"It's up to you," Bat-Mite voiced.

Saturn would not shift from the made decision. "A notebook," she said for a second time.

"Decision made I see. Trafla-"

"My first aid kit," Trafalgar stated without hesitation.

Bat-Mite nodded. "It will be so."

This left only one person from Tribe Black who had yet to select. "Yusaku Kudo, you're the only one left of your team who has a choice to make. I hope you gave it some thought, your thirty second timer begins now."

Franky nudged him. "No pressure buddy."

"None whatsoever. Bat-Mite, I would like ten jugs of clean drinking water," Yusaku decided. He then looked to his team. "I think this is something we can all benefit from."

"You can say that again." Donatello was all for the decided.

"Good thinking," added Roshi.

It was now time to move on. "As I mentioned before the rest of you will now be given notecards to write down what you want."

"Yes!" Luffy yelled. "Now I finally get to pick!"

"And we didn't have to wait long." Sanji too was pleased.

Bat-Mite waved his hand, a move which resulted in a slip of paper and pencil appearing in the hands of those who had yet to make a choice. "One minute!" declared Bat-Mite who held up a finger. "Now choose wisely. Once the minute is up I will collect all selections. Your time begins now."

With the countdown underway it was now time for everyone to make a decision.

"Sailor Uranus, what will you choose?" Sailor Venus asked out of curiosity.

Uranus placed her hands upon her knees before shrugging. "Not entirely sure."

"Same," Venus admitted. "Whatever the case, we don't have much time. We better decide on something soon."

Wataru looked to the paper in hand as he placed the pencil in place. "Now, what to choose.. oh, I know!"

Just as Wataru was to write he felt an unexpected tug at his arm. "Conan-kun?" questioned Wataru. "What is the matter?"

"I.. I think we should wait," Conan voiced.

Wataru was puzzled. "Wait for what? What are you talking about Conan-kun?"

"Choosing something now," Conan clarified. "I really think it would be best if we waited for the next goodies grab, that way we-"

"ATTENTION, ATTENTION!" Bat-Mite yelped unexpectedly.

"What now?" grunted Vegeta under his breath.

"I forgot to mention, for the minute given to those of you yet to select there is one rule that must be followed. There are to be no discussions or collaborating on what you may or may not choose," Bat-Mite conveyed for all to hear. "Understand?"

Michelangelo responded by giving a thumbs up. "You got it dude."

"Great.." Conan huffed under breath.

The next minute was as silent filled as it had been since everyone's return to the Bye Bye Bat Base. Some were certain of what they would choose while others internally dangled with the presented proposition. The camera's continued to roll, capturing the silent tension that grew by the minute. Before they knew it the given minute had passed.

"Time is up!" Bat-Mite declared.

Following his words everyone watched as the notecards in hand disappeared. Having the cards appear in his own Bat-Mite wasted no time in glancing them over. Ten seconds passed, then twenty. Soon a full minute passed them by. Bat-Mite did not speak a single word in that time frame. This was surprising to many.

"Sooo.. a Bat-Mite, where are our goodies?" asked Usopp who opted to speak up.

For the first time Bat-Mite looked away from the cards in hand. "Can I get these individuals to step forward?"

Sailor Pluto's eyes sharpened. "What's going on now?"

Clearing his throat Bat-Mite called out to those in question. "Android 17 and Batman from Tribe Gold. Heiji Hattorri from Tribe Green, could you also come forward?" Bat-Mite paused momentarily. "Masumi Sera, Whis, Red Robin, Watru Takagi, and young Conan, from tribes; blue, red, and silver; may I ask that you all step up as well?"

All did what was asked of them, gradually making their way down to ground level as the rolling cameras followed each and every one of their moves.

"What is going on? Why are they the only ones being summoned?" wondered Yukiko.

"You got me." Kogoro was just as clueless.

Once everyone who had been named assembled before him, Bat-Mite faded forward ever so slightly.

"Uhh what is this about, sir.. Bat-Mite?" Watru asked the very question everyone was wondering.

"What is this about?" Those were the chosen words Bat-Mite responded with. "Well, the eight of you who now stand before me share something very in common. Want to take a guess what that is?"

Wataru looked to those in company. "Well.. none of us are from the same tribe."

"Nor do we all call the same universe home," Masumi added.

"So if not any of those things, then what?" Wataru questioned out loud.

Whis chuckled, this gained their attention.

"What's so funny Whis-san?" asked Masumi.

"Well, I was thinking perhaps the connection Bat-Mite speaks of is directly connected to the situation we're currently locked in," Whis answered. "Specifically our response to the Goodies Grab inquiry."

"Boom dinga vwooom! Tribe Blue's angel hit it right on the mark," confirmed Bat-Mite.

"So does it mean they all chose the same thing?" Sailor Jupiter figured.

"That's certainly what it sounds like," Nico Robin responded.

"That would be correct," Bat-Mite confirmed for all to hear.

"So eight people chose the same thing?" Buggy shrugged. "Big deal, I fail to see how this warrants such a delay in the proceedings; for you see, I would like my requested treasure sooner rather than later." The pirate clown then mischievously rubbed his hands together in anticipation.

Piccolo felt differently. "It may have less to do with them choosing the same thing, and more to do with what they chose."

Buggy looked his way briefly. "Don't see what any of those losers could have chosen that's so important to call for their own little segment. I want my treasure now, and I'ma get it now."

"What did the eight of them choose anyway?" Superman wondered.

To his and everyone else's delight that answer would be revealed. "While an uncertainty to most, the eight of you who stand before me now know what you chose." A smile fell into place on Bat-Mite's face. "Or rather what you didn't choose."

"What they didn't choose?" Sailor Mercury was at a loss for what this meant.

Sailor Moon blinked. "Ahuuhh? They didn't pick anything?" This made little sense. "Why not?"

"I'm hard pressed to comprehend," replied Mercury.

Saguru was one of the few who thought deep on the matter. "Why wouldn't they choose something?" It was all so baffling. "Even something as simple as a jug of water or a blanket to keep warm at night could prove to.. be…"

The reality of it all hit him in an instant. A look of shock as well as disappointment filled his face. Of his teammates it was Wonder Woman who noticed the change in demeanor. "Hakuba what's the matter?"

Saguru clenched his fists. "How.. how did I not see it before? I let my hunger and thirst blind me from the truth."

"Say again?" Wonder Woman questioned. "What are you talking about?"

Saguru looked to his captain in defeat. "Wonder Woman, we've lost."

"Lost what? You're not making any sense right now." Wonder Woman watched as he turned away, hanging his head forward as if to show he no longer wished to speak. What was going on? Wondering that very thing she directed her focus back to the center of the room.

Bat-Mite took a moment to look to the camera crew. "Make sure you lads cover every angle, because believe me when I say; things are about to get juicy!"

Briefly skimming over the eight standing out past the bleachers Bat-Mite finally set eye on one in particular. "Android 17."

Raising his head slightly he looked Bat-Mite in the eyes, choosing not to speak.

"Outside of seven others #17, you elected not to pick something. Was that your intent or did you simply lose track of how much time was left for you to cho-"

"I'll pass," Android 17 interjected.

"I beg your pardon?"

"I don't want, nor do I need anything," Android 17 made clear.

"Well gee, at the very least he could have asked for something that would have benefited the rest of our team," Sanji murmured to himself.

Bat-Mite would press for a bit more. "Do tell 17, what lead to your decision?"

"Hrmph," grunted Android 17 who didn't see a reason for why an explanation was needed. "It is simple, anything and everything that I need to survive is right here. Be it adequate or not of the lack of certain utilities or goods, there isn't a single person here who can't find a way to manage without extra accessories. After all we've lasted this long without the extra excessories."

"Jot that down as the first to reject goods. Admittedly though I thought your decision was based on the premise of allowing your bat points to grow. But that wasn't it at all."

"Wooh, dude sure does make a great point," Beast Boy acknowledged.

"So what if he does?" stated Kogoro. "If an opportunity like this arises, no one in their right mind would turn it down."

"No truer words comrade," spoke Brook in full agreement.

Bat-Mite looked to the next subject in line; it was none other than Batman. He simply grinned, suspecting what he would say he chose to skip over him. His eyes then fell upon one of the youngest combatants to take the floor.

"Edogawa Conan." Noting he had his attention Bat-Mite continued. "Of everyone standing, your choice not to select anything was.. well, the most surprising . Why not something to eat or drink young lad? You could have asked for some crayons and a coloring book to keep yourself entertained at the very least. Oh! You could have even asked for a teddy bear to keep you warm at night."

"Greeat, he's patronizing me, even though he already knows my secret." Conan was mildly humored.

"Tell everyone Conan why you ultimately decided not to select anything when given the opportunity."

Placing his hands into his pocket Conan took a half step forward. "To give the truth or keep the act going?" Conan mustered a smile. "Why not both?"

"Come on now, let's hear it?" Bat-Mite greatly awaited his answer.

"Wow.. all of those things sound really cool and would have been nice to have. But I couldn't choose anything because that would be bad," Conan spoke in a childlike matter.

His words came as a surprise to many.

"What is that kid nagging on about?" Buggy questioned aloud.

"I have no idea," replied Piccolo whose eyes narrowed in sharp focus. "What does he mean by bad.. is there something I'm missing?"

"Bad?" Bat-Mite laughed. "What's so bad about choosing a valuable in the form of a goodie that you have all earned?"

"Today brings your greatest challenge, sculpted mind of a true survivor.. Bat-Mite-sama, that was one of the lines in the scroll our tribe received," Conan noted.

"What of it my boy?" Bat-Mite would not deny.

"You see.. um. This whole test of yours is and has been about surviving through a number of tests and obstacles that will be presented from each challenge to the next," Conan ran down. "Which raises the question.. what purpose does the goodies grab serve in the grand scheme of things?"

"Answer is.. as a means of testing ones state of mind as it pertains to the challenge at hand," spoke Masumi who joined the fray. "There would be those clouded by thirst, others by hunger, and another select few who would look to choose something they feel would give them an advantage going forward."

"Well put Sera. A true survivor is fostered through ones hardship and ability to adapt to situation as well as environment. As Android 17 mentioned, anything and everything we need to survive is already in our possession," explained Whis.

"In the end this entire exercise was nothing more than a ruse, one baiting everyone to choose anything from their inner desire. Today brings your greatest challenge, sculpted mind of a true survivor," Batman repeated. "That was the hint to passing todays challenge. To succeed was to elect not to select."

Bat-Mite's head flew as he ignited in a howl of laughter. There was now a resounding confusion among all combatants.

"I don't get it, were we not supposed to pick nothing?" Chibiusa questioned.

"That's what it sounds like kid," replied Constantine.

"But look," Chopper pointed. "Those guys from Tribe Black received their goodies, so maybe.."

After regaining himself Bat-Mite raised his left hand. "And just like that, BAM!" The snap of a finger brought instant despair for a select few.

"The Pizza, it's gone!" Gohan shrilled in ultimate surprise.

"The cola!" Franky shouted up it disappearing.

"My lawn chair!" Roshi shrieked.

Everyone from Tribe Black watched as their gained possessions vanished in the beat of a moment. From there it was clear what was going on.

"Whelp, looks like the rest of us won't be getting our goodies either," Beast Boy noted.

"Bummer," said Michelangelo in utter disappointment.

Haibara rolled her eyes in annoyance. "Of course we were being tested."

Nightwing shook his head in disappointment. "Bruce and Tim were able to figure it out.." He clinched his fists. "I wasn't thinking. No way I should have failed this test.. I have to be better."

Upon the reveal being made clear to all Red Robin drew focus to a certain individual who stood on the floor a few feet away.

"Conan is it? Of everyone standing here, you're one of the last I would have expected to figure something out like that." Red Robin showed a look of suspicion. "Just who are you anyway?"

"I.. uhh.." Conan struggled to find words for explanation before turning to Wataru Takagi who stood next to him. "It was Oji-san who figured it out, I simply followed his lead. Hehehahaha."

"Is that right?" Red Robin was still suspicious of him none the less.

Now with the truth revealed this left the question, what next?

"What happens now? Do the people who didn't choose anything get a prize or something?" Renet asked.

"No, nope, nope, nope! Have you not been following? Today's event is not about prizes, it was nothing more than an internal exercise for each and every one of you. The majority of you failed, while a select few picked up the hint in the scroll given to all tribes. While no prize is to come, one or multiple teams here today will receive punishment," said Bat-Mite rubbing his hands together in a sinister manner.

"Punishment?" Brook gulped.

"Uh oh, that doesn't sound good," Goku voiced.

"This whole goodies grab was nothing more than a dick tease," muttered Beast Boy in disappointment.

"Before I get into what happens next, I would like to let those of you who remain that you will return here tonight for yet another challenge; one far more grueling," Bat-Mat dispensed to all.

"Those of you who remain?" Launch repeated. "That doesn't particularly sound good."

"You can say that again," Leo said just as worried.

"Now as for the ramifications for this Goodies Grab results, locking it in a three-way tie for first place we have Tribes; Blue, Silver, and Gold. Each of those tribes had two individuals who chose not to select anything even when deceptively being coaxed into doing so," Bat-Mite explained. "This leaves Tribes Green and Red who both had one representative pass this morning's test. By virtue of that both tribes stand locked in a second place tie."

"Oh great, nobody from our team was successful in deciphering the truth behind this challenge," Sailor Neptune realized.

"Nor did those dudes from team black," Michelangelo reminded.

"So what's going to happen, will one of us get eliminated?" Trunks questioned.

"If so, I bet we're soon to find out," said Yukiko.

Bat-Mite would continue. "As I'm sure you have all figured, there are two teams I have yet to mention; Tribes Black and Pink. Not one among either tribe was wise enough in choosing correctly, and in light of that both will receive punishment, but first.." Bat-Mite then referred back to the eight who still stood.

Vegeta watched intently. "What's that clown thinking now?"

"With him, there's no telling," Dr. Gero spoke in response.

After scouring over the lot Bat-Mite finally locked in on someone specific. "Conan, little detective boy Conan."

Conan was surprised to have himself addressed once more. "Yes?"

"Mr. Edogawa I would like for you to take a look over at Tribe Pink, make sure you get a good look at everyone now."

"Oh, okay.." Conan did what was asked of him even if he was uncertain for what ramifications were to come. "I don't understand, what is this all about?"

"Tell me Conan who among those of Tribe Pink do you deem to be their most valuable player?" Bat-Mite asked.

Conan paused, looking up at Bat-Mite in the moment of it all. "I.. I don't really know anyone from their team, so it's hard to say," Conan gave his honesty.

"Then choose from those whom you do know."

Conan looked back to those of Tribe Pink. It came down to the only two he really knew, giving it a seconds thought Conan looked Bat-Mite's way once more. "Oji-san," Conan answered.

"Kogoro Mouri?" asked Bat-Mite looking for confirmation.

"He's the greatest detective I've ever met," Conan expressed with the nod of his head. "Have to play it off for now."

Yukiko looked on in disappointment. "He chose Mouri-san over me..?"

Kogoro smiled proudly. "What can I say, the kid knows his stuff."

The calling would not stop there, Bat-Mite then dropped focus on another. "Whis, I am going to ask the same of you as I did of Conan, except in regards to Tribe Black."

Whis didn't bother to look toward the group. "I am less than knowledgeable about the majority of those selected to that team. But if there is anything to say about surviving in the grounds of this competition, experience as well as knowledge is something I'd hold at a higher value than pure power; leaving my answer to falling on Muten Roshi as the person I would deem as that tribe's highest combatant of value."

The smile upon Bat-Mite's face would fade as he floated upward. All eyes followed, even the lenses of the recording cameras. Bat-Mite would raise his hand with one final message to deliver. "Da, dun dun da! That's all folks, until tonight's mixed challenge commences."

Michelangelo raised a hand, clearly curios about his final statement. "Mixed challenge? What's that?"

Snapping his finger, all would vanish as they had many times before. Bat-Mite excitedly rubbed his hands together. "Tonight will mark the true opening."

To Be Continued