"Welcome back to Total Drama Resort!" Chris said as he spooned a bowl of hot soup. "I was just enjoying some of the resort's world famous cuisine."
"From the bathroom?" asked someone who was using a urinal behind Chris.
The camera zoomed out to show that Chris was indeed eating at the washroom sink.
"Uh yes, I'm just demonstrating to the viewing audience how clean our bathrooms are," Chris explained. "So pristine that you could eat off of them...and maybe because the diner was full and I couldn't get a table reserved, shut up!"
The man washed his hands and exited the bathroom. Chris quickly locked the door behind him.
"Sorry about that folks, we'll try to keep the unwanted interruptions to a minimum now," Chris promised. "Last time here at the resort our contestants had to help some guests find things they had lost. The Grotto Guardians had to help a woman remember where she left her necklace, when she could barely remember what day it was. The Seaside Suckers bullied a struggling author into accepting that he just wasn't that good. And The Hilltop Heroes journeyed into the wild to find a missing Ford Bronco. In the end, despite it being a close match, the Grotto Guardians came up short and had to vote someone out. Ander considered taking the chance to force Misty to duel, but in the end it was a clean sweep against Yuka who was sent back to The North."
From behind Chris came the sound of a toilet flushing.
"Oh come on!" Chris complained.
"Oh hey Chris," Chef said as he exited the stall. "What are you doing in here?"
"Leaving," Chris sighed. "Keepwatchingtotaldramaresort..bye!"
Theme Song Plays…
(Grotto Guardians)
Confessional:
Ander-Last round the decision was between Yuka or Misty to go. It may seem like an obvious decision, with Yuka's destructive temperament, but I would be lying if I said I did not consider just casting a vote for Misty. Corny's heart is in her hands, even if she does not realize it, so this could present some complications for me if I'm not careful.
Ander and Corny sat atop a flat roof, overlooking the nearby villa as the sun began to rise.
"Thanks for invitin' me up here, pal, I gotta say this is a great way to start the day!" Corny exclaimed.
"You're the one who said we should come up here though," Ander pointed out. "All I said was that I wanted to talk somewhere privately."
"Oh," Corny realized. "Well I guess we're just so in sync then, our minds are starting to line up. You only had to say those words for me to understand that this is 'xactly what you had in mind!"
"Sure, whatever you say." Ander remarked. "There's a reason I wanted us to be able to talk though. Our team has lost two back to back challenges and it's not exactly filling me with confidence for today."
"That is true, bud, but we can't let ourselves circle the drain!" Corny exclaimed. "We gotta just pick ourselves up and come back stronger than ever!"
"Well yes, I plan to do my best in that area," Ander agreed, "but I cannot hinge my entire fate to blind optimism. I think we need to face the reality that we may have to vote again, and if that happens I hope that I can count on you."
"'Course you can, partner!" Corny promised. "I ain't given you no reason to doubt yet, have I?"
"No, but this round may be a true test of loyalty," Ander said. "I know you have some...emotional feelings about Misty. While I may not condone it, I also cannot act like it can simply be put aside. So again I must ask, if it is between the two of us, can I count on your vote?"
"Well gosh, if this was on your mind, why not say somethin' bout it last night?" Corny asked.
"I don't know that it would have made a difference," Ander said with a shrug. "I don't expect you would have voted out Misty over Yuka, and while I could have, I know that would have been mishandling your trust and going against what you wanted. I don't want to do that, and...against my every intention, I have come to consider you my friend, and I did not want to break that so soon."
"Aw shucks," Corny exclaimed, "I knew you wouldn't be able to hide it for long."
"Don't test me now," Ander cautioned.
"Alright, alright!" Corny exclaimed. "But you don't got nothin' to worry 'bout, friend! I said you can count on me, and I stick by my word, no matter what! I ain't got time to lie to people out here, that's just too much for my mind, I'd probably end up losin' track of what lies I had goin', so don't you worry bout a thing!"
"I appreciate it, " Ander said with the shadow of a smile.
Confessional:
Ander-I wish I could say that I was just playing up sentimentality with Corny, but for better or for worse, I have found a soft spot for him, and that is affecting my decisions. I don't wish to see him get hurt, even though it may have to happen eventually.
Corny-I do think that Misty is a mighty neato lady, and I'd like to be a little bit closer to her...but I ain't gonna let that get ahead of the game. Right now I'm goin' ride or die with my boy Ander, and I ain't plannin' to throw that away!
(Seaside Suckers)
Fabio stepped out onto the sand to find Kirby already ankle deep in the water, just staring out serenely.
"The waves bring forth the sun once more and another day is upon us," Kirby noted.
"Yep, it sure is," Fabio agreed without much conviction. "You know I'm willing to bet the other teams get up early to talk strategy and make alliances, and yet here you are just getting up to walk along the beach."
"I suppose," Kirby replied. "You could say my alliance is to the sea."
"Well the sea ain't gonna be the one voting to keep you if we lose again," Fabio pointed out.
"Do not doubt the will of the waves," Kirby contested. "She may work in mysterious ways, but I am willing to trust my fate to her whims in my time of need."
"Now how about Eden?" Fabio brought up. "No sign of her again?"
"It would seem as though she has gone on her way," Kirby noted.
"Don't you think it's a little suspicious?" Fabio asked. "She wants nothing to do with us, so what has she been doing all this time?"
"It is a question worth posing," Kirby said with a nod. "Though on the other side, she tends to cause quite a ruckus when here with us, perhaps she is doing the best thing for this team by simply putting distance between us."
"That...is a very fair point," Fabio said with a nod.
"Hm…" Kirby mused. "I think I may build a boat today."
"Yeah, go ahead and do that," Fabio said.
Confessional:
Kirby-I am all too familiar with cabin fever. Without any problems, we may create our own problems. We have been sailing smoothly for a while, and Fabio may be getting restless, looking for new drama to dig up. But if the sea is kind to us, then I see no season to not just carry on for now.
Fabio-The Seaside Suckers have come back strong and we've been surviving, but that doesn't mean it's going to stay that way forever, and anything can happen on a team this small. I want to make absolute sure that the vote is set for Eden so I have nothing to worry about.
(Grotto Guardians)
Misty splayed her hands over a glass counter as she examined the various types of bagels offered at the cafe.
"Hm, what to choose, so many delicious options," Misty hummed while making eyes with the young man at the till.
A line was beginning to form behind her and people were getting impatient.
"Hurry up!" someone barked.
"Okay, okay," Misty huffed.
She then turned her attention back on the cashier and hoped to let her allure take hold.
"So, funny story," Misty purred. "I'm actually here filming some show, very big deal, but they haven't let me bring any money with me. Do you think we could make an exception this time? I promise to pay you back...somehow."
Misty shot a wink across the counter.
"Uh...we're not supposed to do that," the cashier explained awkwardly.
"That's okay, sometimes it's fun to do things we're not supposed to," Misty said while leaning over the counter. "Can you be a rebel, just this once?"
"Uh ma'am...you're making me uncomfortable," the cashier said while sweating nervously.
"Sorry about that sir," someone said as they grabbed Misty by the arm. "We try not to let this one leave the compound."
Misty turned to see Eden trying her away.
"Oh it's you," Misty noted.
"Yeah, yeah, try to contain your excitement," Eden remarked. "Though given the way you were practically oozing over that bagel counter, I'm not sure you have any restraint."
"Don't you have better things to do than spew your many unwanted criticisms?" Misty asked.
"If I do, I haven't found it yet," Eden said with a shrug. "Besides, better than sexually harassing a poor service worker."
"I don't know what you're talking about, I was just trying to get some food that hasn't been ruined by Chef's grimy hands," Misty said. "If I were you, I'd be more worried about getting people to like me. Last we spoke, it didn't seem like personal relations was really your strong suit."
"Well, that's where you're wrong!" Eden exclaimed. "I'll have you know that I'm already set up in an alliance with Lex and Natalia. So maybe it's YOU who ought to be sucking up to me for your own safety."
"Is that so?" Misty remarked cooly. "Interesting...very interesting."
Confessional:
Eden-Everyone always likes to think they know best, especially uppity mean girls like Misty. Well sometimes it's nice to put them in their place! I'm the one with the upper hand here!
Misty-Well isn't that a sweet little secret that I've gotten into my hands (giggles). The only question now is whatever am I going to do with it?
(Hilltop Heroes)
Omber was searching to investigate the sound of several invigorated grunts. He peered behind the building to see Nora doing some energetic movements.
"Ah, top of the morning to you, Sugar Bean!" Nora greeted without breaking her regiment. "Care to join me for some Jazzercise?"
"Maybe another time," Omber replied.
"Your loss," Nora said with a shrug. "You're going to wish you got your muscles nice and limber if this challenge has any physical elements."
Omber turned back the way he had come. As soon as he made it back to the front door, though, he spotted Misty leaning against the doorframe.
"Well hi there," Misty cooed with a wave. "What a pleasant little surprise running into you here."
"If you'll excuse me...I think I actually have some Jazzercise to get to," Omber sighed as he pulled back.
"Oh don't leave yet," Misty said as she slid next to Omber and sidled up close to him. "I've got a sweet little secret to share with you."
Omber put some distance between himself and Misty.
"Uh-huh," he said skeptically. "This isn't high school, your shady gossip won't earn you much credit with me."
"Ooh you," Misty laughed. "I think you're going to want to hear this though."
Misty swayed back and forth eagerly.
"Alright then, what is this scandal?" Omber asked impatiently.
"Well, I don't know if I want to share anymore," Misty teased as she turned the other way. "If you're not going to act like you care."
"Okay, goodbye" Omber said as he also turned away.
"Wait!" Misty suddenly exclaimed. "Okay, okay, you've twisted it out of me…"
Omber tapped his foot.
"Sooo...it was just brought to my attention today that there might be a little alliance brewing, right under your nose," Misty said. "Sounds like Eden, Lex, and Natalia have gotten a little tight as of late. Just thought you should know."
Omber twitched slightly, but tried to rein in his reaction.
"Of course," Omber replied. "Nothing that I wasn't already well aware of. You might be better sticking to your own affairs instead of sticking your nose into others."
"Whatever you say, dearie," Misty chimed sweetly.
Omber waited for Misty to rescind from view before he returned to Nora, still heaving her body from side to side.
"Ah, I knew you couldn't resist the call of the jazz!" Nora exclaimed.
"I think we may have a problem," Omber said.
"All the more reason to shake your body and shake off your worries," Nora suggested.
"Natalia and Lex might be trying to set up an alliance with Eden," Omber said. "And neither of them told us anything about that? It's not a good sign, not a good sign at all. If they're already planning on moving on to other things, then that means that they're already thinking about ditching us."
"Whoa now, slow your roll, Sweetums," Nora said, finally breaking her routine. "Where did you hear this from?"
"From a source...that's not important right now," Omber dismissed.
"Mmm, well the last thing we wanna be doing is starting a ruckus over nothing," Nora said. "Not a fan of ruckuses in general, there's just no way to get a good vibe going in the midst of a ruckus. But an unwarranted ruckus whooooo darlin that is one way to just ruin my mood for the day."
"You're right, you're right," Omber said with a nod. "I need to have a talk with Lex. Maybe we can clear this up."
"You do that, Hun," Nora said. "And I'll be keeping the vibes chill for the both of us."
Confessional:
Misty-Why did I do that? (shrugs) I guess I'm just curious to see what comes of it. A little bit of a mess might be just what I need to pick up some pieces for myself.
Omber-If there's an alliance brewing without me-with the people on my own team no less-then I need to put a stop to that. I cannot allow anyone to think of me as expendable.
Nora-Seems like things are suddenly all abuzz here at Hilltop Heroes, and Honey Bees, I say keep on buzzing to your own tune, but as for me, I'm just gonna keep my toes dipped in that sweet, sweet honey. The question I have though is that if Lex and Natalia are making allies, and Omber is hearing this from someone, then what in the hullabaloo am I doing on my lonesome here just waiting to be a prime target to pick off when we merge?
(Seaside Suckers)
Kirby laid back on a wooden raft as it drifted along the water. The current had taken him away from the Seaside Suckers camp and around the resort. Kirby could observe the bustling crowds from a distance.
"Ah, the trials of the grounded life carry on," Kirby mused. "If only they could take a moment to pause and listen to the cool calming call of the sea."
"Ain't that the truth!" said someone else.
Kirby frantically turned around to see Nora now on his raft as well.
"What the-" Kirby gasped.
"A fine how do you do to you too!" Nora greeted.
"What are you doing here?" Kirby asked.
"Well, I just thought that my Jazzercise might benefit from a bit of an aquatic feel, you dig?" Nora said. "And ooooh, sweet cakes, you are right on about this sea being the place to be. I am feeling that calm soothing vibe all over my body, makes me just want to let loose and be taken away."
Nora swayed her shoulders to emphasize her point.
"I see," Kirby said with a nod. "And that brought you here to my meager vessel?"
"Well it's like you say, Sugar Toots, the sea will take you to where you're meant to be," Nora remarked. "Guess the two of us can just enjoy the serene energy with each other's company."
"I can do that," Kirby replied.
""So how you getting through this game so far, Disco Dude?" Nora asked. "Alliances are brewing up everywhere now, and I figure it's time to step on the gas."
"Are they now?" Kirby asked.
"Apparently," Nora said. "All I can say is that my quaint little team of sugar, spice, and everything that nicely crawled out of the crack to Hades, is now popping like corn and I knew it was time for me to bounce on out of there while they sort that buttery drama on out."
"Mmm, yes, I do not envy such turbulent waters," Kirby noted with a short nod. "I've put my faith in with the Seaside Suckersm, a trusty vessel to stay the course. Perhaps not prim and polished from the docks, but ah, the ships that have some wear and tear are those that you know can brave any storm and live to tell about it."
"So your little cluster ain't all knives out ready to stab each other yet?" Nora asked.
"Perhaps a little," Kirby said, "but I shall drift away and let those waves subside."
"Amen to that, my Salty Snack," Nora agreed as she laid back.
Confessional:
Nora-You know, the Hilltop Heroes have been boogying our way to victory for the most part. With a little shuffle over here (dance to the left) and a little ooh-ah-ah like this (dances to the right) but sometimes you gotta stop and think about what comes next...if we keep up this gilded glide then it only makes sense the other teams are gonna want to see us take a hit when we're all together. So time for this dancing diva to put the works on and show that I'm an alright chick to have around!
Kirby-That's the beautiful thing about setting sail, even if just off the coast, you never know what treasures the sea might bring you to, or what friendships may crash through the surface.
(Hilltop Heroes)
Omber entered the plaza and weaved through the crowds until he spotted Lex. They were currently pacing through a small park between restaurants.
"Oh, hello Omber," Lex greeted. "I was just appreciating some of the flowers they have here. Beautiful, don't you think? This might need to be the inspiration for my next design."
"Yes, very nice," Omber said without paying much mind to the roses that had captivated Lex. "Look, I need to ask you something and I'd appreciate if you answered honestly."
"Oh?" Lex replied curiously.
"Do you have an alliance without me? One with Eden perhaps?" Omber asked.
"What? N-no, no I wouldn't go behind your back," Lex stuttered.
"You're sure? You can tell me the truth," Omber insisted. "I just want to know what's going on. I don't want there to be any secrets between us, or any surprises."
Lex shook their head.
"I mean, I guess I've talked with Eden a few times, she seems…..nice," Lex murmured with a shrug. "But no, there's nothing more serious to it there. I'd obviously include you if anything like that did take form."
"Good, good," Omber said with a nod. "I'm sorry to put you on the spot, but I just wanted to make sure/ We have to be careful. Other players will try to pit us against each other, since they know that we're sitting good here. We can't let that happen."
"Of course not," Lex agreed with a shake of their head.
"I just need to check with one more person," Omber said.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Lex asked.
"Oh that won't be necessary," Omber replied. "Keep enjoying your inspiration, who knows how many more chances we'll get to just stop to smell the roses, quite literally."
Omber then moved along the stone path and down an alley to the side. He found a boarded up window that had been torn open and peered inside. He was met with a dark storage area.
"Natalia?" Omber called out.
"Your search is ill-guided," Natalia replied from the shadows. "You dig into the depths of horrors that you dare not even conceive. Turn back now lest you let yourself be consumed by it all."
"I figured I could find you some place dark and lonely," Omber remarked, ignoring Natalia's warning and climbing in after her.
"On the contrary, every speck of this earth is dark and lonely, so long as I occupy it," Natalia sighed. "The voices remind me that I will forever be an island, secluded from humanity."
"Well, I wouldn't be so sure of that," Omber remarked.
"Your misplaced confidence means nothing to me," Natalia replied.
"I was just speaking to Lex, they seem to really consider you a friend," Omber said. "I think it's very sweet that you could let them past the icy exterior."
"I did no such thing and we are far from friends!" Natalia scoffed. "We simply existence in the same space, any more to it is pure fiction and fantasy."
"That's not the way Lex sees it, not from the way they were talking," Omber said. "They were talking about how you're the best of friends now and going to be hanging out after this is all over."
"Then I shall quell such misconceptions!" Natalia exclaimed.
Confessional:
Lex-I don't like lying to Omber, and I'm not sure if that was the right thing to do, but he caught me off-guard. I don't know what put him on this trail, but if I told him the truth, then I wouldn't just be exposing myself, but Natalia and Eden as well. I didn't want to put them on the line...oh dear…
Omber-Lex was obviously lying, that was plain as day. So that means I need to do what it takes to have this budding posse crumble by the end of the day. Thankfully, Natalia is easy to predict, she can't stand the idea of anyone being pure and happy. Just putting the idea in her head will be enough to make her recoil.
Natalia-I do not have friends (glowers) Life is miserable, hopeless, and dark and we would all do well to remember that.
(Later)
Chris badly played a trombone in the middle of a cobblestone square. Many of the visitors were quickly displaced by the grating notes bombarded into the air. The contestants, however, recognized the call to action.
"Uh, Chris?" Chef remarked to the host as the teams arrived. "You sure that's the right instrument for you? Maybe you ought to try somethin' more at your level. Like a tambourine."
"Nonsense, Chef!" Chris dismissed. "This is the perfect way to inspire bravado for what's to come!"
"Sure...whatever you say, Chris, whatever you say," Chef sighed with a shake of his head.
"I gotta say that was some funky sounds," Nora remarked.
"Thank you," Chris replied.
"Hey hey, I said funky, not FUNKAY!" Nora pointed out.
Chris seemed to ponder this for a second before carrying on, "Welcome all to our next challenge! As part of the fun and fanfare here at Wawanakwa Resort, we will be having a parade through the villa this evening. And each team will be building a float to join in the parade. Of course, you'll be provided material to work with...Chef!?"
Chef opened up a sliding steel door to reveal a dusty storage room full of broken decorations and dull, defunct devices.
"Uuuuh...is the theme for this parade 'Back Alley Pawnshop?'" Fabio asked skeptically. "Cause otherwise these are gonna be some disappointing floats."
"Aw, I think there's plenty of fun stuff in there," Corny remarked. "Just gotta know how to use it is all."
"The rich don't need to 'know how to use' things, they just need to pay for better things!" Fabio countered.
"Yeah, well newsflash buddy, you're still a broke-ass wannabe," Eden pointed out.
"Not for long, not for long," Fabio fumed.
"After the parade, we will take surveys on audience reactions," Chris continued to explain. "The teams with the best scores will be immune, while the losing team...you know how it goes, you'll be sending somebody home."
Confessional:
Corny-This challenge ain't nothin' new for me. I'm used to havin' to take what I can get my hands on and makin' the most of it, so this should be a cinch, pinch, and a snap to turn out!
Fabio-I just want to do something glamorous! These people want a SHOW, they aren't looking for some fourth grade art project. Come on, Chris, where are you keeping the good stuff!?
(Grotto Guardians)
Corny dived right into the storage room and eagerly examining all the options before him.
"Ooh, ooh, this would look SO COOL!" Corny exclaimed as he held up what looked like a large frayed wire. "Just need a couple more and we can get a-a full fringe goin'! Ooh, how bout this thing!?"
He presented a spiral shaped lightbulb.
"Don't seem to have much life left in it, but we can work 'round that," Corny mused.
"Well he seems in his element," Ander noted. "I guess maybe we should start to put together an idea of how we're going to make this into a functioning float."
"Ooh, but dear little Corny seems to be having so much fun," Misty remarked. "Why not just let him work, and we can...enjoy each other's company?"
Misty let herself slide onto Ander's shoulder. Ander shook her off.
"Given our track record in challenges lately, I would feel much better if we all put our best effort forward," Ander said.
"I just knew you would say something like that," Misty giggled. "You're always so serious, so committed...it's why I'm so lucky to share a team with you."
"Uh-huh," Ander said as he searched through the dusty crates for anything to use.
Misty casually traced her hand along some of the shelves, though did not seem to be putting much effort into actually searching for anything. Instead her eyes wandered around the room to the other teams all searching among themselves. She allowed herself to slink over towards the Hilltop Heroes to get closer to Omber. Feigning as though she was still studying a shelf of defective knickknacks, she deliberately bumped into the boy.
"Oh, well well, look who it is," Misty remarked while batting her eyes.
"You again?" Omber sighed with a wry smirk. "Here to sow more seeds of dissent for your own amusement? Oh don't answer there, I know you'll never admit to it. It's just a sweet little drop of serendipity that I'm running into you, right?'
"You are soooo funny," Misty purred. "But seriously, was I right? Did you get to the bottom of the little...you know what, we talked about this morning?"
"As I told you before, it's all under my control," Omber said. "I wouldn't expect you to understand my plans."
"Of course it is, sweetie, of course," Misty chimed. "It's okay if your poor little ego couldn't possibly admit the truth to me. I get it, I'm used to guys like you who are afraid to...crack."
Misty traced her finger along Omber's face as she spoke. He swatted her away with irritation.
"Look, all I'm saying is that you don't have to rely on your little crumbling team if it's not as solid as you might have thought," Misty said. "A smart guy like you? Well I'd be more than pleased to see us work together. You've got nothing to lose."
"Except putting myself into your web?" Omber pointed out. "Please, I'm not dumb enough to think you wouldn't be trying to pull me over if it wasn't for your own gain."
"Okay, okay, and is that so wrong? Is that a sin?" Misty asked. "We both can gain something from working together."
"Aha!" Nora exclaimed as she leapt out of a box around the corner. "This might be perfect for us, check it out!"
"I should get back to my team," Omber said.
"Think about what I said," Misty bid farewell while blowing a kiss to Omber.
Confessional:
Ander-This is not a challenge we're going to want to slack off on. The Grotto Guardians are already on a bubble here, if we go down to two then we're hardly going to stand much of a fighting chance.
Misty-I'm just looking ahead for myself here. Surely the team phase won't last too much longer, and so why not get a jump on blurring some lines? I want the other teams to be doubting each other, and I want to be there to step right in when they need someone new on their side.
(Seaside Suckers)
Kirby milled through the boxes, flipping them over and scouring through the contents. Eden tapped her fingers on a shelf as she slumped back.
"Well I'm bored already," she groaned. "There's got to be something more exciting to do here."
"Alright, alright, let's come up with a plan," Fabio said.
"Booooooring!" Eden droned.
"Excuse me!?" Fabio said.
"I can already tell you exactly how that conversation is going to go," Eden remarked. "You're going to say something about how we need it to look rich and fancy because money money this money money that. And then Kirby will make some hardly sensical metaphor about the sea and letting the waves guide us to where we need to be. And then I'll be like 'oh wow guys, way to be predictable and say exactly what I predicted.'"
"That does sound plausible," Kirby said with a nod.
"I hate that I can't even dispute that," Fabio sighed.
"Great, so you guys can do that, I'm gonna find a better use of my time," Eden said as she marched off.
"And there she goes again," Fabio remarked.
"She may dive deep, deep into the waters, but the surface shall still be there, so long as her lungs need air to breathe," Kirby added.
"Right, right, well let's try to get to work on this thing," Fabio said. "We've got a big job ahead of us turning this junk into something glamorous."
"It may be daunting, but the sea holds many treasures just waiting to be unearthed and brought to light," Kirby assured.
"You know, you may be onto something," Fabio agreed, reaching into a box and pulling out a lightbulb. "Take this for example…"
"Ah yes, let that bright beacon shine the way for our majestic vessel!" Kirby exclaimed.
Fabio tossed the bulb to the ground causing it to shatter to pieces.
"Okay, or maybe not…" Kirby remarked.
"Just think, if we color this glass we can give off the illusion that the float is covered in sparkling gems!" Fabio exclaimed. "That's the kind of treasure these people are gonna want to see!"
Confessional:
Fabio-This is just like the hiking challenge, fake it till you make it, baby! The trick is just going to be putting up the illusion that this second rate crap is actually worth something.
Kirby-Eden certainly does seem like a turbulent element among our team, always following her own path, and yet it is the foolish sailor who attempts to direct a storm. Those that survive are those that know how to simple ride with whatever the vast sea may present. Rather than attempt to tell her what to do, I'd rather focus on what I may do to survive the present.
(Hilltop Heroes)
"Alright, funky folks, these are the doohickeys, whatchamacallits, and gizmotronics that have spoken to me the most!" Nora exclaimed as she dropped a pile of decorations and equipment on the floor.
"I see," Omber remarked as he eyed the pile, "and did you have a vision to go with this?"
"Well not anything quite so technical as a 'vision,'" Nora replied, "but just a feeling, ya dig? A vibe, if you will. An aesthetic, perhaps."
"Uh-huh," Omber said with an unconinced nod.
Nora glanced up and spotted Lex sketching something in their pad.
"Ah of course!" Nora exclaimed. "Lexi, sweetums!"
Lex tilted their head up and gave a wide-eyed look at suddenly being called.
"You've got that knack for design, right? I'm sure you could take these groovy things and make something that funks the funk right down to funkytown!" Nora exclaimed, presenting her mess of a collection proudly.
"Well I uh...I suppose I could give it a shot," Lex remarked nervously, fidgeting somewhat to the side.
Just like dancing, all you gotta do is take a step forward and let the feeling take hold," Nora encouraged. "So what are you feeling, hun?"
"Um...well, I kind of liked seeing all the flowers earlier today," Lex suggested. "What if we were to do something based on that? Celebrating the beauty of new life pushing through?"
"Sugar Tea," Nora exclaimed, "that sounds absolutely-"
"Disgusting," Natalia concluded on Nora's behalf.
"Oh," Lex peeped solemnly.
"What a tired, cliche little lie that you'd like to plaster up for display," Natalia scoffed. "There is no beauty in life. There is just pain that we attempt to paint over with pleasant lies."
"I uh..well, I guess that's one way to look at it," Lex sighed. "But we can still try to give people hope."
"Hope? Ha!" Natalia spat bitterly as she swatted Lex's sketchpad out of their hands. "You are a true disgraceful fool if you want to talk of hope. There is none left in this world. You'd only be handing out enough rope to hang those foolish enough to follow."
"Hey no need to get so grim," Nora interjected. "We've been cruising these challenges, I'd say that's a good enough reason to keep the moods up."
"Bah!" Natalia scoffed as she kicked over a reflective panel and let it shatter before her. "Just a cowardly attempt to stave off the inevitable. It'd be better if we were to all stop pretending."
"Natalia, what's wrong?" Lex asked. "Clearly something has upset you, I just-"
"You!" Natalia snapped in Lex's face. "You've upset me with your sickening attitude. You don't just live in a bubble, you want to pull others in with you. Blind them from all that's around them and pretend that everything will be okay. Well you won't get me! I am not going to let you pull me into that trap!"
"Things are all falling into place," Omber whispered with giddy satisfaction.
"You know, Superflex, we may be dancing to two different beats here. I'm just trying to bop the bop and you may be waltzing right on past me, but uh...how exactly is this good for us?" Nora asked.
"Right now what we need is for Lex and Natalia to fall apart," Omber explained. "If they're turning on each other, then that means their alliance won't pose a problem for us anymore."
"Okay, Sweetpea, I'll trust you know what you're doing," Nora replied, "Just hope it doesn't also cost us the challenge."
Confessional:
Natalia-There is nothing crueller than letting someone else hold onto hope. It will never amount to anything and always turn to bitter disappointment sooner or later. Lex may not realize it but I am doing them a kindness by showing them that I am not their friend and never will be.
Lex-I know Natalia has never been the most warm and fuzzy, but I thought we had gotten closer lately. Something must have set her off. I want to help her with whatever has upset her, but if she doesn't even want to talk to me...I'm not sure what I can do.
(Grotto Guardians)
Ander had gotten to work trying to construct a base for his team's float. He had gathered up some tools and was now trying to screw on a set of wheels to the platform he had built. Corny repeatedly ran up to drop off new supplies he wanted to see included.
"Now just take a right gander at this thingamathing!" Corny exclaimed as he presented a wide brass dish.
"What did you have in mind for that?" Ander asked.
"Hm," Corny mused as he examined his newest find.
He began to spin it in place, having it twirl like a propeller.
"Heheh, check this out!" he laughed. "Maybe if we can keep it spinning it could work."
"But for that," Ander pointed out, "we would need-"
"A motor!?" Corny chimed in. "Gotcha covered!"
Corny presented a poorly held together rectangular box. He flicked a switch and a low rumble came from inside.
"Just a little somethin' I tried to throw together, it's actually just an old industrial fan and some clothes hangers," Corny explained. "But it gets the job done."
"And is it supposed to be doing that?" Ander asked as he pointed to smoke billowing out from the side.
"Heck, probably not," Corny replied, undeterred. "But we can work with that, if we just use something like…this!"
Corny revealed a hose that was attached to a distorted trumpet.
"See? A chimney!" Corny said proudly. "And check this out…"
By activating different valves, Corny was able to change the size and form of the stacks of smoke that emitted.
"Pretty nifty, huh?" Corny exclaimed. "So..thank you could make that work?"
"I'll do my best," Ander replied.
"Great!" Corny beamed. "I'll help out too!"
Corny picked up a hammer, though seemed unsure of what he intended to use it for. Ander began examining the contraptions that Corny had thrown together and tried to map out how he could keep them all in place aboard the float.
"Say, where did Misty get off to? I bet she would love to see this in action!" Corny asked.
Ander just gave a shrug and remarked, "Guess she had better things to do."
"Ah, probably got swept up in all the neat and nifty things there are to discover out here," Corny mused. "Can't say I blame her, there were more than a couple of times where I just wanted to stuff my pockets with everything I could get my hands on. But had to remind myself that we've got a challenge to win here, scavenging can wait!"
Andre just grunted as he tried to affix the motor to the platform. He seemed far from convinced that it wouldn't collapse.
"Hm, we may need something to reinforce the foundation," Ander noted.
"I got just the thing!" Corny exclaimed.
The boy dived into the pile he had accumulated and then emerged with a foam flotation board.
"Ta-da!" he exclaimed.
"I'm not sure that's really going to do the trick," Ander replied. "Do you have one of these but made of metal?"
"Aw don't be silly, bud," Corny laughed, "If it were made of metal it wouldn't do no good at keeping you afloat."
Ander just gave a dull unamused stare at this answer.
Confessional:
Corny-I made a promise to Ander that if it came to a vote I would be on his side, but I also really don't want to eject Misty like that. She wouldn't deserve that. Clearly there's only one answer here, we gotta crush the heck outta this challenge!
Ander-Corny has a lot of ideas for this challenge, but very little direction on how to implement them. I am going to do my best to make this work, but if we just throw everything he brings onto a set of wheels, it will be an utter disaster.
(Seaside Suckers)
"Behold, the generous sea of storage has presented us with a suitable hull," Kirby exclaimed as he presented the front portion of a small wooden boat. "Though she may simply be a metaphorical sea, she is still just as generous."
"Well that's real nice, but there's just one problem," Fabio remarked. "That's only half of a boat."
"Aye," Kirby said with a sad nod. "The sea can be just as brutal as she is kind and it would seem as though this sturdy craft has paid quite the price aboard the waves. But the sea works in mysterious ways, and all we can do is trust that this is the way it's meant to be."
"Well I'm not sitting back and trusting anything if 'the way it's meant to be' results in us having to lose again," Fabio retorted.
"Fair enough then," Kirby agreed.
"We are just going to need to find something to fill it out," Fabio said as he scanned the shelves around them. "I don't suppose there's another boat that also paid the ultimate price, but you know, in the opposite direction."
"Never doubt the infinite possibilities that dwell within the sea," Kirby assured.
"Okay uh, great and powerful metaphorical sea, please find it within your infinite depths to share some of your bounty," Fabio called out.
"My dear friend…what the hell was that?" Kirby asked.
"What do you mean? I'm praying to the sea!" Fabio replied in confusion.
"You sound ridiculous," Kirby pointed out. "The sea will not respond with generosity if you do not treat her with proper respect."
"Whatever, man," Fabio sighed. "Hey, you hear that?"
The two listened to a low creaking. They glanced up just in time to see the panels of the ceiling crumbling apart. Both boys stepped aside as a miniature bus came crashing down. Upon impact the vehicle split in two.
"Well, well, looks like Chris had more stored in here than we realized," Fabio exclaimed smugly. "And what was that about respecting the sea?"
"I also said the sea works in mysterious ways," Kirby added. "I would be a fool of a fool to claim to understand her every whim."
"Now then, let's get these things squared up and then we can start gussying them up with some glitz and glamor," Fabio said.
"One problem remains," Kirby pointed out. "How are we to attach these two vessels?"
"I dunno, superglue?" Fabio suggested.
"I have my doubts that will hold and withstand the voyage we are to undertake," Kirby said with a shake of his head.
"And does the sea have a better idea to offer up?" Fabio asked sarcastically.
Kirby paused to think for a minute.
"Not currently," Kirby admitted. "Let us proceed with the superglue."
Confessional:
Fabio-Kirby, now he's an odd guy. He might be willing to just leave his fate up to the whims of whatever happen, but that's not me. That's poor person logic, cause ain't no one ever got rich by doing nothing! Except for those that are born into royalty. Or when you get a lucky lottery ticket. Or when some rich uncle you never knew existed dies and they had no other loved ones and you end up with a sizeable chunk of their fortune. BUT other than that, you've got to put in the work to earn the big bucks.
Kirby-The sea is not some joke to be taken lightly. She must be tread with the utmost respect or else her wrath shall be felt in the worst ways.
(Hilltop Heroes)
Natalia had stormed off away from the team, though Lex attempted to follow after her.
"Natalia, wait up," Lex called, while Natalia just made longer strides to leave them behind. "Natalia, come let's just talk."
Eventually Natalia was faced with a dead end.
"Cruel fate, forcing me to face the worst once more," Natalia remarked. "I am not surprised."
"Natalia," Lex breathed as they finally caught up.
"Go back the way you came," Natalia huffed. "Go back to recreating your dim little fantasy that you so desperately cling to. I simply won't be involved, and I refuse to have you chain me up in daisies."
"Huh? What are you talking about?" Lex asked. "No one is trying to chain you up."
"Try or not, I already feel your sugary sweet binds wrap around my wrists, trying to pull me back into the fantasy of sunshine illusion," Natalia protested.
"I'm sorry if I make you feel like that," Lex said sadly. "I'm not trying to, I just want to help. I want you to be included here. We're a team."
"That does not matter! We are not friends! I am not someone you want in your life," Natalia insisted. "I am burdened with the pain and misery all around me, and I cannot stop spreading that same pain to all those foolish enough to get in my wake. Any attempt to help would be a breath in a storm, leaving you just as devoid as me, and the storm will rage on, unchanged. You won't make a dent in all the evil that lurks around every corner of this damned planet."
"It will make one difference," Lex said softly. "You won't have to suffer alone."
Natalia looked up at Lex., then snarled.
"You speak of things that you couldn't even possibly understand," Natalia scoffed as she shoved Lex away. "This is exactly what infuriates me the most. Gleefully inviting more pain like it could be so easy. Acting like your endless self sacrifice will someone make anything better. You can't fix everything. Virtue, kindness, selfness, are just hollow principles that keep us in line until we are ready to despair and give in to the darkness."
"Will you two KEEP IT DOWN!?" someone snapped from the other side of the shelf.
Eden emerged.
"What is going on here?" the cheerleader asked.
"It does not concern you," Natalia huffed.
"Oh is that so? It doesn't concern me?" Eden echoed in a mocking tone. "Let me tell you what, I found one of those autostereogram images that I've been staring into and almost disassociated with reality until I got snapped out of it by you two harping like a pair of corvids in a territorial war. So yeah, since I can't enjoy separating my conscious mind from this tired body until you two resolve your quarrel, yeah it concerns me."
"Natalia is suffering from the knowledge that humanity is inherently evil, society encourages a sense of selfishness to reach success, and positive progress feels so meaningless when all that is bad in the world remains like a bottomless tar pit," Lex explained. "She's been plagued by these thoughts embodied by demonic voices that convince her that experiencing any joy would be disingenuous and any friendship would only result in pain and disappointment."
"Wow, just leave me dangling for the world to see like that," Natalia scoffed.
"You announce it for the world all the time," Lex pointed out.
"Well when I say it, it sounds dark and ominous in a graceful sense," Natalia argued. "As you can see though, I have no need for anyone else in my circle of darkness. The longer you stay, the more I will have to leave you scorned and burnt until you learn that there is nothing here for you."
"Now wait a minute," Eden said. "Let me get this straight. Lex understands everything that you're feeling, has moved past your every attempt to push them away, and offered to support you with whatever you may be going through…and this offends you for some reason?"
"I would not expe-" Natalia tried to say.
"Oh can it!" Eden snapped. "I get it, I get it. You're so dark and damaged and if you don't remind the world of that at every possible second you feel like your very identity will be taken from you, stamped over, and twisted into another cookie-cutter mold to fit into this miserable world. Don't you think I feel the same way every day? All that fakeness around us, the only way to feel truly REAL is to just aggressively spit in the face of anyone who tries to get you to change."
"I'm not asking anyone to change-" Lex threw in.
"Excuse me, I wasn't finished yet," Eden said. "I know that after so many fake smiles and false promises it feels like there's no point to ever tear down those walls. But you know, that does not give you the right to blame someone who genuinely cares for you, which as far as what I have seen, is all that Lex has done. They've had many chances to leave you behind, and every reason to do so. And you know what else? Maybe if one goddamn person back home had bothered to stop, listen, and understand what was going on inside of me, instead of putting words in my mouth-well, maybe I'd have a little more faith that we're not all soulless drones trying to fit into place."
"Eden, I'd gladly be your friend," Lex offered.
"Hey whoa whoa whoa, let's not get sappy here," Eden said. "This is between the two of you! I've got a three dimensional cat to bring back into focus."
Natalia continued to avoid Lex's gaze.
"Natalia," Lex said cautiously. "I'm sorry, for whatever I've caused you to feel. I don't-"
"Let's go," Natalia said sternly. "You're wasting time on me when you should be focused on the challenge. I won't let you throw that away."
"Alright, then let's get a move on," Lex said. "Maybe we can make some changes to it, if you didn't like the original idea. Maybe we can find some black flowers instead."
"What's that supposed to prove?" Natalia asked.
"That good things can still bloom," Lex said, "even in darkness."
Confessional:
Eden-Don't get me wrong, most people in the world WILL disappoint you. They'll try to fit you in a box, and if you don't go along with it then they'll tell you that you're the problem. But that means that when you find the rare ones who actually give a damn, you don't want to push them away.
Natalia-Hmph, fine. Since Lex will not leave my side, I will let this go for now and allow us to return to the challenge. I do not know why they keep up this hopeless chase, but I will not let their misaimed need to help cost them anymore today.
(Grotto Guardians)
Ander and Corny looked over the uneven structure they had put together. Ander had to use a series of chains just to keep the machinery in place and it still looked like it might topple with one firm shake.
"Ain't it a beaut!?" Corny exclaimed proudly.
"It's certainly…something," Ander said.
"Let's fire'er up!" Corny cheered with excitement.
He flipped a switch and the chugging whir filled the air once more. The brass disc spun in place, creating a scattered reflection of flecks of light, while clouds of smoke puffed out around it.
"Aw shoot!" Corny suddenly exclaimed in realization.
"What's wrong?" Ander asked.
"We forgot to leave space for anything Misty might have found," Corny remarked. "I hope she ain't too disappointed."
"I don't think she will mind," Ander replied.
"Aw nuts, here she comes now," Corny said.
"Oooh, look at all the hard work you've done," Misty cooed. "Such strong men you are, I'm so lucky to have you at my side."
"There ain't much room left, but maybe we could clear some space if you had anything to add," Corny offered.
"Well I would, but I'd hate to change up this perfect little piece of work you've made," Misty replied. "Besides, I didn't really find anything that special."
"Too busy with all the corporate espionage?" Ander asked.
"You are sooooo funny," Misty giggled.
"I'm really not," Ander replied.
"Well if it's all set then let's get it ready for the show!" Corny exclaimed.
Corny pulled a lever and the machine began to move. Gradually, very gradually.
"Does it have a higher speed?" Misty asked.
"Yes, but if it goes any faster it runs the risk of falling apart," Ander explained.
"Ah, good to know," Misty replied.
Confessional:
Misty-It's just sooo easy to get these silly men wound up the way I want. I didn't even have to do anything to and they were willing to put in all this work just to impress me. Ander may think his strong tough guy routine is winning me over, but really I'm just shaping him into my little workhorse.
Ander-I still can't get my head around how Corny takes anything Misty says to heart. I've seen more genuine emotion from mobile dating simulations!
(Seaside Suckers)
Fabio was now working on attaching the painted pieces of glass to the body of their hybrid ship.
"More glue!" he ordered as he prepared another patch.
"Captain, we may have a problem," Kirby pointed out as he shook the tube of glue to no avail.
"What!?" Fabio gasped.
"It would seem as though we've used up our resources trying to fabricate this Frankenstein's monster of a ship," Kirby noted.
"Wow, let me tell you, Gorilla Glue is gonna be in for the lawsuit of their life as soon as I get back to a lawyer," Fabio grumbled.
"That does seem like what one may call a frivolous lawsuit," Kirby pointed out.
"Hell yeah it is, frivolous lawsuits are the key to raking in the dough," Fabio explained. "Most rich companies would rather pay you off just to shut you up and avoid the bad press."
"I see," Kirby remarked. "And is this actually true or are you just making stuff up again?"
"There's no reason it can't be both," Fabio answered. "Now then we're going to have to find a new way to bejewel our ship. We've barely gotten a single quarter done."
"Perhaps some good old-fashioned nails will do the trick," Kirby said.
The sailor grabbed a hammer and attempted to nail a shard of glass to the wooden hull. The glass shattered and upon entering the nail in the wood a loud thud emitted from inside.
"Hm…probably best we don't try that again," Kirby decided as he set the hammer down.
"Well, well, this is what we're presenting?" Eden remarked as she returned to the scene. "It looks like crap."
"Thanks for the supportive attitude," Fabio grumbled.
"Why would I support something that looks like crap? That's the baseline for entitlement culture," Eden scoffed. "Why is it half boat and half bus?"
"The sea holds many bizarre and grotesque chimeras to be discovered," Kirby proposed.
"Well I'm sure it does, but that doesn't mean that people want to see them," Eden said.
"We don't have time to start all over," Fabio pointed out. "And since you weren't interested in helping, you're just going to have to live with it."
"Right, it's somehow my fault that you thought this would be a good idea," Eden scoffed.
Confessional:
Eden-I leave these two numbskulls to it and they come up with that monstrosity? I mean, I probably couldn't have come up with anything better, but that's why I left them to it so I don't have to take any credit for it.
Fabio-I hope you're happy, Gorilla Glue! You've just made one very dissatisfied customer, and a whole lot of viewers see your product fail to serve adequate needs on national television!
(Hilltop Heroes)
Lex and Natalia placed pots and planters of various flavors along the ridge that had been constructed for their float. This ended up giving their craft the look of a garden hedge surrounding it. Atop the float, Nora was constructing a large artificial flower out of torn kite fabrics.
"Keep it coming, crazy kids, we're gonna rock some socks with this display," Nora exclaimed.
"See this isn't so bad?" Lex said to Natalia.
Natalia just remained silently though as she continued to work diligently. The girl poured a sack of soil into a trough, allowing Lex to position some drooping bells into the miniature garden. Nora hopped down to appreciate her work. She had put together what appeared to be a giant pinwheel of different colored flags.
"It may not be fruiting and fluting right now, but when the wind hits this baby it's gonna put us on the map!" Nora exclaimed.
Omber returned with a small crate of objects, though he seemed shocked to see the progress being made.
"What uh…what's going on here?" Omber asked.
"Oooh, sweetie, ain't it grand?" Nora exclaimed. "Guess these two worked out their issues, cause they came strolling back on in with a vision to bring to life, and let me tell you it is LIVING!"
"But…what…but…" Omber stammered. "They're supposed to be fighting. There was a rift!"
"And now that rift is patched," Nora remarked. "Look, string bean, I know you had some master plan in place here, but sometimes you just gotta let those plans fall apart and boogie on through all the same. This ain't a bad thing for us, our team is going strong, we're working together, ain't that enough for now?"
"I guess," Omber pouted, clearly still disappointed.
Confessional:
Omber-I do not like to be proven wrong. I had a perfect estimation of both Lex and Natalia's behaviors, I knew that putting Natalia on the defensive would be enough to get her to lash out. But something didn't go to plan. Someone must have interfered. (clenches teeth).
Nora-I ain't gonna lie, I'm happy to see my boy Omber might have been off by a hair. All that scheming and dealing just ain't for me, and I'd much rather make music than war.
(Later)
As the sun began to set, the parade made its way through the narrow streets of the resort. Crowds gathered along the sides to cheer for the displays as they wheeled by. The Hilltop Heroes display stood tall and proud, the pinwheel flower flapping majestically in the air. The half bedazzled bus-boat was met with mostly confused glances. With a low grunt, something seemed to snap and the back half tilted back, causing an earsplitting screech as the bus dragged along the road. Bringing up the rear was the incredibly steady machine made by the Grotto Guardians. The alternating puffs of smoke seemed to entertain some of the onlookers, though others up front were less enthused about having exhaust blown in their faces. As the events came to a close, Chris brought together the three teams.
"Well everyone, you tried your best," Chris said. "And that….is pretty sad for some of you, I'm not gonna lie."
"We know," Eden called out.
"But the numbers are in and we have some results," Chris announced. "The most popular float belongs to…"
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"The Hilltop Heroes!"
" Bodacious, baby!" Nora cheered while performing a victory dance.
"And in second place," Chris continued, "just narrowly dodging the dreaded elimination, it's…"
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"The Grotto Guardians!"
"Hip hip HOORAY!" Corny cheered, tossing his hat into the air.
"That means, Seaside Suckers, you're back to sucking," Chris said. "I'll see you tonight."
"Yeah, yeah, big surprise," Eden scoffed.
Confessional:
Nora-That's FOUR wins for the Hilltop Heroes, boogie babies! The party never stops on this hill and we can going to move, groove, and shmooze our way to the top.
Fabio-Well (breathes out) this is gonna get ugly.
Kirby-Never doubt the sea (shakes head). She may give…but she also takes away.
(Seaside Suckers)
The three all awkwardly stood outside of their home base.
"So…" Eden said.
"Soo…." Fabio added.
"Mm…" Kirby remarked with a nod.
"This is awkward," Fabio noted.
"Thanks, Sherlock," Eden scoffed.
"Perhaps I may offer a solution for us all," Kirby spoke up.
"You're quitting for us?" Eden asked. "That's great."
"That's not quite what I had in mind," Kirby said.
"Thanks buddy, we really appreciate this sacrifice," Fabio added.
"Would that I could be so noble," Kirby sighed. "But alas, what I propose is that we simply give this no more thought than necessary. We are all on the same boat together and there's very little room to hide. Either we can all lie to each other, or we simply let it go and let the currents push on to the vote that feels right for each of us. Whatever happens, the decision shall be what was simply meant to happen."
"Just blind voting between the three of us?" Eden asked.
"I mean…that's what we're gonna end up doing anyways, right?" Fabio brought up. "Like you said, otherwise we're all just making promises to one another."
"Precisely," Kirby said.
"I guess there's no way around it," Eden said with a shrug.
"In that case, I suggest we all use this time to just appreciate the night on this island paradise," Kirby said. "For one of us it may be our last."
Kirby left the two and made his way towards the water.
"Well, guess I'm gonna hit up the town, see if I can steal someone's reservation that Pasta Palace," Fabio remarked.
"Hold up," Eden said, grabbing Fabio by the shoulder. "We're not really going to do that 'vote with our hearts' nonsense, right?"
"Oh uh…no?" Fabio asked.
"I was just waiting for him to leave," Eden said, "but now that we're together, let's talk the real talk. I know we may not always get along, and may have some different approaches to the game-"
"You know, that pasta is really calling my name so if we could…" Fabio said while giving a gesture for Eden to hurry up.
"Let's vote out Kirby," Eden said. "Look, he's…well, he is who he is, but I don't know if that's someone we can rely on at the merge. We're going to be down to dwindling numbers, we're going to be at a disadvantage no matter what. Do we really want him 'voting with the sea' and leaving us having to guess how his mind works?"
"You know," Fabio said while stroking his chin, "you may be onto something."
Confessional:
Kirby-Sometimes the simplest path is the best way to go. We can complicate this round a million times over, and all the added stress will do nothing to make it any more likely we survive. We're all just going to have to make our decisions based on the good of the voyage.
Eden-I never thought I'd actually be working side by side with Fabio, but options are slim and right now I've got to focus on what it takes to stick around.
Fabio-Kirby can listen to the sea if he wants, but I'm gonna listen to those millions of dollars waiting for me at the end. Cause I know if I get this round wrong, I'll never see them!
(Dock of Shame)
The team of three sat before Chris and Chef. Eden had her arms crossed and seemed to be entirely displeased to be back. Kirby just sat upright with rigid sternness. Fabio was trying to keep a cool expression, but the sweat dripping down his forehead told a different story.
"Seaside Suckers," Chris greeted. "A fitting name as ever since you guys sure sucked this round!"
"Whoa there, Chris, we defied the name the last three rounds before this," Fabio pointed out.
"And now you're right back where you started," Chris said. "Hence, you suck."
"Mm, you got'em there, Chris," Chef said with a nod.
"You haven't even come close to 'gotting' me, keep dreaming, McClean!" Eden scoffed.
"Believe me, my sweet dreams all consist of not having to hear your voice," Chris said.
"I think that's true for all of us," Fabio added.
"Girl, sounds like you in danger," Chef said to Eden.
"Pfft, nothing new for me," Eden said with a shake of her hair.
"Kirby, you've been silent so far," Chris said. "How do you feel about this challenge defeat? I would have thought constructing a sturdy ship would be right up your alley."
"My alley contains multitudes," Kirby responded. "Even the best sailors can find themselves lost at sea if they are given the wrong directions."
"Wow, that sounds like shade at someone," Eden remarked. "Probably Fabio."
"Rude," Fabio said.
"Alright, punks," Chef said, "we only got three votes to get out tonight, so this is gonna be quick!"
"Right you are, Chef," Chris continued, "First vote….Eden!"
"Meh," Eden scoffed.
"Second vote," Chef read.
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"Kirby!"
"The waves my rock me, but the voyage continues," Kirby said with a nod.
"Final vote," Chris announced, drawing it out with devilish delight "and eliminated tonight…"
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"Eden!"
"Oh what the hell, guys!?" Eden snapped.
Both Fabio and Kirby just offered a sheepish shrug.
"Sorry Eden, but you've been running off talking to the other teams all this time," Fabio pointed out. "If there's anyone we should be afraid of in the merge, it's you and your many friends."
"Wow, that is some utter bull-" Eden began before a realization seemed to hit her. "Wait, are you telling me that I got voted out for being TOO POPULAR!?"
Kirby and Fabio glanced at one another.
"I suppose that is one way of putting it," Kirby answered.
"I…ME!? Popular?" Eden gasped in a trance-like state. "Too popular…I'm…I was voted out…for being popular…"
"Okay, Queen Bee, it's time to go," Chef said as he guided Eden to the Boat of Losers.
"Me…popular?" Eden continued to recite as she was thrust onto the boat and shipped away.
"And that leaves us with just the two of you," Chris said to Kirby and Fabio. "Seaside Suckers have been washed down to two and you're all that remains."
Fabio tried to offer Kirby a fistbump but he just responded with a salute, and Fabio awkwardly pulled his fist back.
"And it's nowhere close to being over," Chris said. "So big your side behinds up and take them on home. We'll be back at it again next time."
The two stood up and departed.
Votes:
Eden-Return to the sea from whence you came, Kirby. You can play in the waves while the rest of us actually play the game.
Kirby-Simply taking into account the events of today, I must cast a vote for Eden. It would seem as though your priorities are not with this team, and I cannot put my faith in that.
Fabio-Eden, you're right the merge is coming…but it's not Kirby I'm worried about, I have zero faith that you wouldn't screw me over at the first chance you had to get ahead. So see ya!
(Conclusion)
"Another fun day here at the Resort!" Chris said with a grin to the camera. "We're down to just nine contestants left and the stakes loom as tense as ever."
"You can say that again, Chris, these kids ain't pulling any punches now," Chef said. "Damn, I can't even keep up with all the schemes and plans they have going on."
"And the heat is only gonna turn up," Chris assured evilly. "Who will flourish under pressure, and who will fold? Will Natalia and Lex stick together, or is it only a matter of time before they fall apart? Will the sea allow Kirby to keep on sailing through the channels of this game? Who will be the next to sent packing? Find out on the next exciting episode of…Total Drama Resort!"