Chris McClean kicked back in a canoe drifting along the lake.
"Ah, this is the life, just the gentle sounds of the water as the sun rises," Chris remarked. "Not a care in the world, eh Chef?"
Chef was the one having to use both oars to keep the boat moving. He seemed to have many cares in the world.
"Yeah yeah, Chris, whatever you say," Chef grunted.
"Last time on our hit show," Chris said to the audience, "Eden confirmed what she already knew: that she did not like her team. She hit it off...slightly better with Lex and Natalia from the Hilltop Heroes. Misty meanwhile was perfectly pleased with herself trying to stay wedged between Corny and Josiah, until she noticed Corny chatting it up with a female guest. She tried to send Josiah on the offensive, but it only ended up with Josiah getting sacked and sent packing. What will-Chef can you even out your flow, this shaking is really throwing off my rhythm!"
"Sorry, Your Majesty," Chef grumbled.
"That's better," Chris said, "What will happen next...on Total Drama Resort!"
(Theme Song Plays…)
(Seaside Suckers)
Confessional:
Fabio-You know we've been out here at this classy resort for over a week now, and honestly I am getting a little sick of being stuck in the servants' quarters. It is absolutely bonkers to me that we've got a place with some of the finest amenities and aren't even allowed to get our share? That ain't right!
Fabio tiptoed out of his team's home early in the morning and began to make his way along the path leading back to the resort.
"It's time to get me some of that high life!" Fabio said to himself. "I deserve it!"
As Fabio neared the cobblestone road and rows of buildings, he sensed someone approaching from behind. He turned around to see Eden marching towards him with a stern look.
"Aha! I thought I felt something suspicious going on!" Eden exclaimed with a jab of her finger. "Sneaking off eh? That can only spell trouble, no doubt trying to scheme with the other teams!"
"You ditch our base all the time," Fabio pointed out.
"That's some typical whataboutism, but it won't work on me!" Eden exclaimed. "Throwing other people under the bus won't make you any more innocent, so don't even try it!"
Fabio rubbed his forehead in annoyance.
"Look, I'm not doing anything sketchy….to you," Fabio promised. "I just thought if I got up early enough I could check out these spas. I mean, they're right there! Are we really just supposed to ignore all this high class treatment and be happy with our crappy beds?"
"You should be happy with anything, some people don't even have a bed to return to!" Eden exclaimed.
"Yeah well I do, and it's crappy," Fabio replied. "And there's no way I'm passing up on this opportunity to see the way the rich can really live!"
"A likely story," Eden remarked, eying Fabio still.
"It is a likely story...because it's the truth," Fabio replied. "Maybe you should come too, a spa day could do you some good. You seem a little high strung."
"I am not high strung!" Eden pouted. "And even if I were, who are you to tell me to change? Maybe I like being high strung! Stop trying to force my identity to fit into your cookie cutter mold!"
"I'm not forcing anything, you can do whatever the hell you want." Fabio said, bringing his hands up defensively.
"Hm...fine, I guess I will follow you," Eden decided, "but only to make sure your story lines up!"
The two made their way along the road, down a side alley that turned into a flight of stairs spiralling to a small cottage in a green patch.
"Doesn't look like it's open yet," Eden remarked. "And even if it were, they'd surely turn us away."
"My dear friend," Fabio said gradly.
"We're not friends," Eden corrected.
"My dear...Eden," Fabio corrected, "let me tell you a little something about money. When you have money, you can go anywhere you please. When people realize that you're rich, they get out of your way."
"Okay? And how does that help us?" Eden asked. "Clearly neither of us are rich or we wouldn't be degrading ourselves on a stupid reality show!"
"We may not be rich in physical wealth, but...if we walk with power, people will still buy the illusion," Fabio explained. "Come on, follow my lead, let's go around back, surely someone will let us in."
The two moved around to a back patio, lined with empty chairs, small pools of water, and folded parasols. The back door proved to be locked as well however.
"Great plan," Eden remarked. "Notice the sarcasm there? Need me to spell it out for you? This was a poorly thought out plan that was always doomed to fail!"
"Wait, wait, look! Someone's coming!" Fabio exclaimed.
It turned out to be Chef Hatchet, driving a small cart that was carrying a crate behind it. Fabio's excited look dropped when he realized who they were actually dealing with.
"Oh uh...hi there, Chef," Fabio greeted.
"What are you brats doing here!?" Chef demanded. "Ain't you got strategizin' to do!? Chris is gonna lose it if we have to stuff this episode full of filler scenes!"
"Haha, classic Chef," Fabio fake laughed.
"There's nothing classic about me," Chef said grimly while his eyes narrowed.
"Chef, buddy, pal," Fabio urged, "can you do us this one kindness and leave the door to the spa open? We'll be in and out, no problemo!"
"No can do, buckaroo," Chef said. "We ain't supposed to be helpin' out and pickin' favorites. It shows host bias or somethin' and the network don't wanna see it!"
"Man, come off it, Chris shows bias openly every season," Fabio pointed out.
"I said scram, kids," Chef ordered. "I gotta get these towels dropped off, cause apparently bein' a cohost ain't enough anymore. Now I gotta work double duty as delivery boy. Lousy contract…"
Chef brought the large crate through the back door of the spa then shortly after exited and locked it behind him.
"Okay well uh...see ya around. Cheffy!" Fabio said awkwardly. "Keep up the good work."
Chef just grunted and got back in the cart to drive off. Eden gave a curled smug look to Fabio.
"What? You got something to say? Say it!" Fabio snapped.
"Oh I don't need to say anything," Eden remarked. "I can just stand back and enjoy how wrong you were about pretty much everything you thought so far!"
Just then, the door clicked and open back up.
"You boogeybeans lookin' for a spa day?" Nora said as she opened the door.
"What the?" Eden gasped.
"Oh Nora! I could kiss you!" Fabio exclaimed.
"Please do not do that, hun," Nora requested.
"How did you get in there?" Eden asked.
"How da ya think? I hitched a ride in with the laundry," Nora laughed. "What? You polkapunks thought you were the only ones who needed some rest and relaxation? If I'm gonna keep up hip hop happening all over the place, I gotta give these muscles and bones some love, ya dig?"
"So you just got up and immediately thought, time to dive into a box of towels?" Eden asked.
"Pretty much!" Nora answered. "Honeybabs, I live life just following the tune that my heart sings for me, and this morning there was one very clear song. It said take those aching legs of yours on down to the spa! But hey, you two heard it too, eh? Our vibes are lining up sooooo fine right now!"
The three entered the empty spa.
"We finally made it here!" Fabio exclaimed as if he had just achieved a lifetime goal. "Of course no one's here, so there's a limit to what we can actually do but let's all just take a minute to feel like royalty."
"Yeah yeah yeah I'll feel like royalty if we can actually find something in here worth all this effort," Eden sighed.
"What effort? You haven't done anything," Fabio pointed out.
"I've put up with you, and believe me it has been incredibly taxing," Eden retorted.
The group discovered in the next room a series of small circular pools.
"Anyone up for a soak?" Fabio asked. "These are probably filled with minerals or like...microscope organisms that eat off your dear skin and fill you with antibodies, I don't know okay but I know that it's classy!"
"Looks like it's our lucky day, party people," Nora said as she revealed some folded swimsuits. "You can count me in!"
The three quickly got changed and slid into the warm water.
"Ah, I can just feel that rich energy running through my body," Fabio sighed. "This is the kind of thing that people pay the big bucks for."
"I think you're imagining things," Eden said, "I mean sure it's nice, but I can also have a bath at home."
""Whether it's the fountain of life, or just a regular dip, right now it's exactly what I need," Nora sighed as she allowed herself to submerge in deeper.
Confessional:
Nora-We all deserve a break sometimes, this game is makin' us WORK, so we gotta get in the good times where we can. Sure on other seasons they may not have had this opportunity, but we ain't on other seasons. When the universe gives you some good luck, you don't turn it away, you take it and enjoy it!
Fabio-The way I see it, I'm just reminding myself what I'm fighting for. Chef may have to stick to the rules, but hey technically he didn't let us in, so it's all good in my book!
(Grotto Guardians)
Misty sat on her bed, brushing her hair in a gentle rhythmic fashion. As she slid through her curls, several times Corny made as if to approach her, only to back up instead. Ander noticed this behavior and sighed to himself. The next time Corny approached, Ander tapped him on the shoulder and pulled him aside.
"Ander! Good morning, buddy!" Corny greeted.
"Hello," Ander said simply. "You're letting Misty get in your head aren't you?"
"What!? No!" Corny laughed somewhat sheepishly. "I told ya, I ain't gonna make things complicated. I'm takin' your advice straight to the heart, bud!"
Ander seemed unconvinced.
"Look, I just want to clear the air with her," Corny said. "She voted for me last night, and I ain't crazy 'bout that happenin' again, so clearly we gotta talk. I just don't want her to think that I'm mad or gonna hold a grudge or somethin'."
"Very well," Ander replied. "But just be careful with her. Misty likes attention, but that does not necessarily mean she's looking for anything more."
"Gotcha, bud, you don't gotta worry 'bout a thang!" Corny promised.
Ander still did not seem entirely assured, but he stepped aside. Corny made his way towards MIsty at last.
"Miss Misty!" he greeted.
"Oooh, Corny!" Misty exclaimed with a long draping tone as she twirled around. "Just the little muffin I was hoping to see."
"Uh, ya were?" Corny asked. "Well, heh, happy to please, here I am!"
"Here you are indeed, you little stud, you!" Misty giggled.
Corny blushed somewhat, but shrugged off the praise.
"I really need to thank you," Misty said.
"Thank me?" Corny asked in confusion. "Well what for?"
"For defeating that awful bully, Josiah," Misty cooed. "I will admit, he had me totally under his palm. He had me downright fooled with his charm, and honestly, even a little bit afraid of him. But you set me free! You stood up to him! You proved to be the true big man around here, and I have to say I'm very impressed. I'm just lucky I was able to be awakened to the truth and see you the way you deserve after all that."
"Oh uh...well, ain't nothin' to fret 'bout it," Corny remarked modestly, with an awkward scratch of his head. "I'm just glad it all worked out and there ain't no bad blood between us."
"None whatsoever," Misty promised. "You've truly shown your might to me, Corny. I'll never doubt you again."
"Well heck...that's uh...that's real mighty nice of ya to say!" Corny said with a beam.
"Yes…" Misty replied, keeping her smile but clearly starting to get frustrated at the reaction she was getting. "Yes it is…"
The two just kept smiling at each other awkwardly.
"I'm gonna uh...I'm just gonna be on my way then I guess," Corny said.
"Bye bye, Corny," Misty chimed with a wink. "Hope to see you again soon."
"Well uh, I can promise that's mighty likely...seeing as we've got a challenge to do soon," Corny remarked.
As soon as Corny was out of sight, Misty flung herself towards Ander frantically.
"Oh Ander, Andeeerrrrr!" Misty sobbed dramatically as she threw herself on the larger boy's body and tried to guide his arms around her back. "Ander, what am I doing wrong here? I was so sweet, but Corny just doesn't care. He does not care at all! It breaks my heart, Ander, I just want to feel seen by him. Is that too much to ask?"
Ander broke his hands free and pushed Misty back to give himself some personal space.
"Maybe you're looking at this the wrong way," Ander suggested. "Maybe Corny does like you and just doesn't want to be too forthcoming. Not all men are lustful dogs lying in wait."
"Wrong! Not a single sentence that begins with 'not all men' has ever been factually correct!" Misty declared. "Yes all men! YES all men!"
"For the sake of your future and anyone else a part of it, I do sincerely hope you can resolve whatever issues you're still working through," Ander replied.
Confessional:
Ander-Personally, I wish that these two would just drop it and move on, but that's not going to happen (he sighs and pinches his nose), and while I'd rather not encourage this behavior, it's also painstaking to watch them both be so blind to one another. To me it is clear that they are unable to read each other's signs...but I have learned that it can be impossible to get others to see things the way you do, no matter how obvious.
Corny-Well that went better than expected (he beams). When Misty voted for me last night, I was pretty confused and a little bit scared that something had gone wrong 'tween us. Luckily, she don't seem to have any grudge with me. Maybe once this show is over and done for I can take her out for a lunch good and proper, but right now? It wouldn't feel right, and believe me I want to get this right!
(Hilltop Heroes)
Confessional:
Omber-Last round we managed to come out on top in the challenge, and it was in part due to some unexpected help from Eden. I believe she was just serving her own needs though, so we do have to be careful. It's pretty clear that the other teams aren't just keeping their tricks confined to themselves and could be bringing the game right to our doorstep. I know I can handle this, but the rest of the team? Well let's just say I want to make sure we don't have a loose thread that can be used to unravel us.
Omber found Lex outside, behind their sleeping quarters, hunched over their sketchpad. The designer seemed hard at work putting together their latest ideas. Omber simply cleared his throat.
"Oh, good morning, Omber," Lex greeted. "Sorry, I didn't see you there. Got a little too sucked into the zone I guess."
"No need to apologize," Omber assured as he slid down to sit next to his friend. "I'm glad to see you can still focus on your work, we should all be making sure we don't get too bogged down by the game."
"It's certainly a lot," Lex admitted, "but I don't think I'd ever get too overwhelmed to stop designing. It just comes naturally to me, you know. Even in the most dire of situations, these thoughts will be popping into my head about what would be a great look for this moment."
"Sounds like it's your true calling then," Omber said with a smile. "Speaking of dire situations, things were certainly looking pretty grim for a minute there in the last challenge."
"I don't even want to think about it, I lost years from my lifespan when we realized the fridge wasn't working," Lex sighed. "I don't even know how that happened."
"I have some theories," Omber remarked. "But only that, theories. No need to go down that hole. It's just a good thing Eden was willing to help us."
"Yeah, we caught a break," Lex agreed.
"It's funny though, that she was willing to help another team entirely," Omber mused. "Though I guess her goal all along was just to swing the support back to her team."
"Maybe," Lex said with a nod, "but it all worked out, right? We both got immunity."
"Indeed," Omber said, "I'm just saying, we should be careful about who we trust. Remember, everyone here is out for themselves and I don't want us to let our guard down. No matter how helpful the others may seem, they're always going to help themselves first."
"I know, I know," Lex assured. "But sometimes working together pays off. Like the two of us, right? We're technically still each other's competition, but we're better off helping each other up than pushing each other down."
"Of course," Omber said. "All I want is to understand what to expect. It was one thing keeping an eye on our own team, but now if the other teams are going to try to mingle we have to be prepared for anything. Did Eden, or anyone, approach you before that challenge?"
"No, not really," Eden denied, somewhat shakily. "I mean, I talked with Eden a bit before, just you know, getting to know her a bit. She seems nice. Well, you know, underneath her prickly outside, I think she's nice...deep, deep past it."
"Hm, alright, just be careful," Omber said.
"Of course," Lex agreed. "Don't worry, if anything was going on, I would let you know."
Confessional:
Omber-I don't think Lex was being totally honest with me, just a hunch. They seemed to tense up a bit when they mentioned speaking with Eden before. I think they may have discussed more than just chitchat, and if Lex is keeping that from me then it may be more serious than they want me to believe. But I should follow my own advice and be sure before I dive too deep into that hole.
Lex-I wasn't really sure how much to tell Omber there. I trust him a whole lot, he's been a really good friend and seems like just a genuine guy. But he definitely seemed on edge about something today, and I think if I told him that Eden had made an alliance with myself and Natalia...well, I think it would just make him upset and do no one any good.
(Seaside Suckers)
Confessional:
Kirby-I awoke this morning to find that my two teammates had already departed. Odd, seeing as I am usually the first to rise. But I will not concern myself over this for now, and instead I will relish in the chance to truly appreciate the silence and sound of the sea.
Kirby stepped out of the sleeping quarters and onto the sand. He allowed the tide to lap against his legs. He closed his eyes and breathed in. He heard nothing but the gentle lull of the water ebbing and flowing up against the coast. Back and forth, back and forth.
"Ah," Kirby said to himself. "There's that good stuff."
Kirby's serenity was interrupted by a sudden violent splash. He turned to the side to see Yuka bobbing up and down in the water, like she was chasing after something.
"Calm and silence only means that something is coming, something you should be worried about," Yuka exclaimed between breaching and submerging. "In the North if things get quiet, you know it's about to get bad. And if you're alone, that means there's only one choice of prey."
"Ahoy there," Kirby greeted as he stepped towards Yuka.
"Hold it right there!" Yuka barked. "You'll scare away the fish!"
"Haven't you already chased them off?" Kirby pointed out.
"The fish are exactly where I want them to be," Yuka stated. "I am the apex predator, and they are trapped in my net already. They just don't know it!"
"I see," Kirby remarked. "But you could hunt fish anywhere, you didn't have to choose right outside my team's base? Perhaps you're looking for some company…"
"WRONG!" Yuka snapped as she shoved Kirby away, causing him to fall backwards into the water.
"Ah the sea, always here to break my fall," Kirby praised.
"You'll have a watery grave soon if you're not careful," Yuka claimed. "The sea is not your friend, like all parts of nature it will kill you ten times over if given the chance!"
"Ah, but that is all part of her majestic beauty," Kirby explained. "Such power, and yet such tenderness at the same time. Upon the sea, we are all simply riding on the waves of her mercy."
"You know what else we don't have in the North? Pansy poets like yourself!" Yuka said. "You want to go out and appreciate the majesty and beauty of the snow? Great, you'll freeze to death!"
"You still haven't explained what exactly you're doing here," Kirby said.
"I'm here...for THIS!" Yuka exclaimed as she reached into the water and pulled out a flopping fish. "You will make a fine meal!"
"Don't we have food provided for us?" Kirby reminded.
"Bah! Any meal not killed by my own two hands is not worth eating!" Yuka claimed.
Confessional:
Kirby-Well the silence did not last, as another boisterous individual decided to visit. Yuka may not admit it, but I suspect that she too was drawn in...by the call of the sea! (he closes his eyes and smiles serenely)
Yuka-Know the lay of the land, that is the first rule of The North! Probably. There are a lot of rules of The North, and as far as I'm concerned they should all be considered the first rule because when you're fighting for your life, you can't be expected to go through a full list one item at a time, you need to remember all rules at once and ACT! Which is why I am making a mental map of this island and everything that it has to offer. Nothing will catch me offgaurd!
(Grotto Guardians)
"Ander, hey buddy!" Corny exclaimed as Ander stepped up to the surface.
"Do you...do you just wait for me here, every day?" Ander asked with some mild concern.
"Well where else you gonna come from? You diggin' a tunnel down there?" Corny asked.
"I suppose I cannot argue that logic," Ander sighed.
"Come on, I had a great idea for us today!" Corny said with unbridled excitement. "They got pingpong down by the courtyard. Well actually they got golf, so I borrowed a few golf balls, and they got some paddles for canoes and junk, so I thought we could use those and have our own brand of pingpong!"
"That sounds...incredibly painful," Ander replied. "You know I would love to take part, but I think I left my...shoe behind...over there somewhere, I should probably go get it. You go on ahead."
Corny glanced down at Ander's two shoes still on his feet.
"I meant my sock," Ander corrected.
"Aren't you-" Corny tried to say.
"No, I am not," Ander cut off, trying to keep his pant legs from lifting up. "I'll see you again soon...probably at the challenge."
Ander took off down a small alley and crept into an empty alcove. He rested his body along the ridge and sighed. However, he realized he was not alone.
"Isn't there any dark secluded place on this cursed island where I won't be disturbed?" Natalia groaned from the opposite corner of the alcove.
Ander gave a small girlish scream before calming back down.
"Oh, hello," Ander greeted. "Sorry to barge in. I just needed a bit of a break from my team."
"So did I," Natalia stated grimly."I needed a break from my team, from this island, from the world we live in. I wish I could turn it all off. I wish I could escape from it all. But I can't, because it is everywhere and everything. I close my eyes but the world goes on around me and I know that it will all still be the same miserable place when I open them."
"Mm," Ander remarked, giving an awkward nod. "You're into that...dark heavy crap, aren't you?"
"The dark heavy crap is into ME!" Natalia claimed. "It's all I've known and it fills my body and mind through anyway possible!"
Ander seemed a little perturbed by this. He aimed to change the subject.
"I apologize for the way I acted in the previous round," Ander offered. "I know it was a bit much."
"What are you looking for from me? Absolution? I can't offer it," Natalia replied. "Your apology is just words, that's all it is. A phrase we breathe that has no real power to change the past. If you truly want to be free of the guilt that has been born of your own action and clawed its way into your flesh, then you'll need to look deep within yourself, to the darkest corners where you dare not go. Return with your mind still intact, and you may once again breathe freely."
"You know what, I'll take my chances with my team," Ander said as he pulled away. "Golfball pingpong can't be worse than this."
Confessional:
Ander-Believe it or not, I don't mind Corny. He has a good heart and a lot of energy...too much energy for me. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts he still seems to see the two of us as good pals, which is not exactly what I was going for and I'm not sure what else I can do about it now.
Natalia-If people come digging into my shadow, it's not my fault that they may lose their way in the darkness.
Misty-You know, I've been thinking what I need to get out of this funk is explore what more men are out there for me. Sammy and Josiah, well that's pretty much easy mode, they were already bending over backwards for me. I need a man with a little more…(giggles) dignity!
(Hilltop Heroes)
Omber rested by himself at the top of the hill, glancing down at the resort village below him. The boy leaned back and simply fell into the grass beneath him. Omber noticed someone approaching him, though, not too long after he'd leaned back. He glanced up to find Misty inspecting him.
"Uh hello?" Omber greeted.
"Oh hi there," Misty giggled with a faux shy wave. "Don't mind me."
"Well you're sort of standing right over me, so I sort of get the impression you want to be minded," Omber replied.
"Oh you!" Misty laughed. "No, no, I was just, you know…" she giggled slightly, leaving the thought unfinished, "I just found myself in the area…"
"And thought you'd try to see if you could trap me in your flirt net since you've gotten bored with the boys on your team?" Omber finished.
"I…" Misty murmured in a somewhat stunned state.
"Please, don't tell me you think you're being subtle," Omber remarked with a wry look. "It's been clear as day that your whole goal out here has been to try to wink and laugh your way into winning over every boy that you can."
"Oooh, so smart," Misty praised. "Okay, fine, that might have been my plan coming over here, but it's only fun with simple-minded men. You're clearly too clever for that, so let's just drop it."
Misty slid down to sit next to Omber. He gave her a hollow laugh and smile which Misty awkwardly echoed.
"You're still doing it, aren't you?" Omber asked. "This is just a double bluff."
"Maybe it is," Misty cooed while twirling a strand of her hair.
She continued to laugh playful, which Omber also matched, followed by an awkward silence.
"But...I should have known you'd see right through that," Misty finally added. "Because you're not like the other guys around here. You're actually mature, and astute…"
"Look, this might work better if we just accept that we're both trying to manipulate the other and don't need to tiptoe around the subject," Omber suggested.
Misty nodded in response adding, "I can do that."
"So what are you really doing over here?" Omber asked. "You're already in total control of your past team and trying to control mine?"
"Exactly," Misty replied. "Well I did vote in the minority last round…"
Omber raised a quizzical eyebrow.
"But that doesn't mean I have anything to worry about, it was a me thing, it was...I just needed to make myself seem like the victim in need of a big strong man to swoop in and save me this round," Misty explained.
"And did the big strong man do that?" Omber asked.
Misty paused and pursed her lips.
"You know, it's a process," Misty explained. "First I give them distance, let their slow working minds work out what happened and then when they realize they need to find me, suddenly I'm right back where I need to be!"
"I see," Omber remarked. "And you're quite confident that this is what's going to happen?"
"Please, all men are the same," Misty scoffed. "I mean you know, other than you."
"You don't need to humor me," Omber said.
"Okay fine, all men are the same, and I understand exactly how their minds work," Misty claimed. "You can call it sexist if you must, but I've experienced it firsthand. They always come crawling back to me if I just wind them up right."
"Hm, you know I consider myself something of a prospective expert on human behavior as well," Omber remarked. "And I've met people like you before too. Those that look for any sort of justification to their preexisting beliefs. I'm willing to bet all you see is proof that you're right, and ignore all the proof that maybe...you're not."
"Mmm, no I don't think so," Misty dismissed.
"I know you don't, but it does just prove my point," Omber replied.
"Enough about me, though, what about you?" Misty asks. "What's the story at your team?"
"I could tell you," Omber replied. "But it would mostly be lies and made up stories to keep you off track. And even if I didn't, if you were smart you'd have to call it all into question anyways. So I don't think that will get us anywhere."
"Well that's not fun," Misty pouted.
"Be grateful I'm giving you that courtesy instead of wasting your time with lies that you probably wouldn't have believed anyways," Omber retorted.
"Well...I might have believed them, you don't know that!" Misty pouted again.
Confessional:
Misty-So Omber is a little bit smarter than the usual breed of mankind I deal with, that doesn't change anything. It means he knows to keep his guard up, but deep down he's still the same primal animal that I know all too well, and I will lure him on out and into my hand.
Omber-And just as expected, here comes Misty trying to meddle in my team. She's amusing, I'll give her that, but if she thinks she's going pull my strings and under her control just like that, she's got another thing coming.
(Later)
The three teams arrived in the foyer of a large building in the center of the resort. The carpet was a deep crimson, and the walls a sleek oak. Guests were welcomed and escorted by various uniformed staff.
"Wow, now this is what I'm talking about!" Fabio exclaimed. "Who cares what the challenge is, we are living in STYLE now!"
"You call this style?" Eden scoffed. "Looks like any boring hotel that you could slap in any city across the country. Not a hint of culture!"
"Welcome, my lovely Resort Staff!" Chris greeted the three teams. "If you could just follow me into this room here."
Chris opened a door and the eleven contestants filled in. The office they entered was actually incredibly small, and already had most of the space occupied by a broad desk. This meant that as they entered, the group had to press up against one another to fill up the space.
"This sucks,' Fabio grunted.
"Ah it ain't the worst," Corny remarked. "I once had to stick myself into the inside of a tire for 23 hours and-"'
"Yeah yeah I don't care why you did that, it does not make it anymore appealing to be crammed in here like sardines," Fabio retorted.
"Well, personally I don't mind the close contact," Misty said in a sultry voice as she leaned against someone.
"Please do not do that I will end your ability to breathe," Yuka threatened.
"Oops, I thought I was up against a sexy man," Misty sighed.
"You thought wrong!" Yuka barked.
"Glad you could all fit!" Chris exclaimed with a cheeky grin from outside the door.
"On with it, Chrissy, my vibes are feeling mighty stifled in this position!" Nora exclaimed.
"Alright, alright," Chris said, "you are now currently occupying the Lost and Found office here at the resort."
"But...ain't nothin' in here," Corny pointed out.
"Yes, there tends to be a lot more lost than there is found," Chris remarked. "Perhaps this challenge will change that though! Each of you will be assigned a guest who walks up to the door to report something lost. You will need to assist them in locating their lost item and bringing it back here. First two teams to do so will be immune. The team in third place...is sending someone home. Got it!? Let's see who we've got, first up for the Grotto Guardians…"
A small old woman with a thick pair of glasses and hair done up in a bun hobbled her way to the door.
"Hello ma'am, how can we help you today?" Chris greeted.
"Edgar...is that you?" the woman murmured.
"Uh no, it's Chris McClean," Chris explained.
"You look just like my Edgar," the old woman sniffled.
"Right...well you're at the Lost and Found," Chris said. "Is there something lost that we can help you find?"
"Lost? Oh no no dear...I have a map, you see," the woman explained. "Edgar never trusted maps, he always said that he had an instinct for direction...but oooh now that he's gone, I'm afraid I no longer have him to guide me. Such a shame, I'm sure it would break his heart to see that I've resorted to the very thing he hated most."
"Uh-huh," Chris sighed. "So you're not missing anything?"
"Oh, yes dear!" the woman exclaimed. "My necklace! Oh Edgar gave it to me on our 50th Anniversary, and I simply cannot bear to be without it. I don't know where it could be. I had it with me this morning and then...well...now I don't."
"That sounds very vague...and exactly the sort of thing that's perfect for this challenge!" Chris exclaimed. "Grotto Guardians, you're up!"
Ander, Yuka, Corny, and Misty forced their way out of the crowded room.
"Edgar?" the old woman said to Ander.
"Seaside Suckers, you're up next," Chris said, "Be on alert for the guest you'll be assisting...here they come right now..."
A young man made his way up to Chris. He had on a rimmed hat and a wrinkled long sleeve shirt that had numerous food stains indicating that it had not been washed in a while. The man had a forlorn sort of look lingering in his eyes.
"Is this Lost and Found?" the man asked.
"That it is!" Chris said with a grin. "What's lost that we can help you find?"
"My inspiration," the man said sadly.
"Come again?" Eden asked, shoving herself forward.
"I came to this resort to find inspiration for my next novel," the man explained. "The place where ordinary teenagers became televised warriors, battling for the prize...I thought inspiration would just seep out of the ground. But everything here has been...fake! Boring! Manufactured! Not a single genuine idea could possibly make its way to my mind now!"
"Uh...next please," Eden ordered. "We;re here to find actual, material items. Not metaphysical ideas."
"Now that's no way to speak to our guest," Chris chided. "The challenge is to help those who seek aid at Lost and Found, and this guest has stated what he needs. Now help him!"
"Chris, you gotta be kidding!" Fabio interjected. "This is completely unfair."
"Life often is," Chris tutted with a shake of his head. "But you'll just have to find a way."
"Outrageous," Eden scoffed.
"Totally bogus," Fabio spat.
"Ah, the true mystery stands before us to be unfolded," Kirby said with enthusiasm. "Often when we set sail on a voyage, we know not what shrouded treasures we will unlock within our own minds. Together, we shall uncover this wayward inspiration that has eluded this fine explorer!"
"You know, there are some times when your boundless enthusiasm is a little annoying," Fabio remarked.
"Some?" Eden scoffed.
"And lastly, Hilltop Heroes," Chris said, "Get ready to help your guest…"
A tall, young woman approached the office. She had beaded braids in her hair, wore a loose tanktop and baggy shorts. She seemed to have a perpetual excited look on her face.
"Heeeey!" she greeted with a boisterous wave.
"Hello," Chris replied.
"Oh my GOD, the party last night was like on FIYAH!" the girl exclaimed. "I cannot remember like...any of it! And that's how you know it was the best kind of party!"
"And let me guess you lost something in the blur of it all?" Chris asked.
"Totallay!" the girl exclaimed. "It's not a party if you don't leave behind everywhere you went!'
"Okay, kids, get to it!" Chris said.
"So what exactly can we help you find?" Omber asked.
"So crazy, I need to find my Ford Bronco," the girl explained.
"Wait...let me get this straight," Lex said. "You lost...your SUV?"
"Exactly!" the girl said. "So wild, am I right!? Actually it's not mine, it's Joey's! And actually it's not his, it's his parents. We brought it with us on the cruise ship-they're like super rich you see. Not Joey's parents, Cynthia's I mean. They paid for the whole trip! But now like they're totally going to kill me if I don't bring back their van by the end of the day. Joey's parents that is, but I'm sure Cynthia's parents aren't going to be too thrilled about it either."
"Well, this shouldn't be too hard," Omber remarked. "I mean, it's a van somewhere out here in the resort? How can you miss that?"
"Exactly!" the girl said.
"So where would you have last seen it?" Omber asked.
"Well that's the thing, cause like the party was SUCH a blackout blur, right!" the girl said. "Uuuum, I think we were supposed to like drive on out to the other side, go camping, or that sort of crazy crap. Joey is ALWAYS coming up with the craziest ideas, that's why I always want to party with him! But yeah uh I guess that didn't work, cause I woke up here and no Ford Bronco in sight."
"This might be a little trickier than it sounds," Lex sighed.
Confessional:
Ander-Hm, this challenge may prove difficult for us, seeing as our guest can't seem to even recall what year she's living in, let alone where she might have left her necklace.
Eden-How in the hell am I supposed to help someone find inspiration!? There is no inspiration left in this god-forsaken planet, we live in a cultural wasteland that has been completely sucked dry. There is nothing left to be inspired by! Rigged challenge!
Natalia-Aren't we all lost here? We pretend to be found when we feel safe, but really we're just occupying the pockets of reflected joy among the pits of shadows and despair. Some things are better left hidden, for when you dig them up you're only digging yourself deeper into the void and inviting out anything else hiding beneath.
(Grotto Guardians)
"Alright, alright, let's get to solvin' this mystery!" Corny exclaimed with vigor. "Not to worry, we WILL be gettin' you reunited with your necklace, Miss…"
"Oh, call me Ethel, dearie," the old woman said, "but between us friends, you're free to call me...Ethel."
"Uh yeah...that's what you said," Corny remarked in confusion.
"That is what I said," Ethel said with a wobbly nod.
"Well, Ethel, we would be so happy to help you find your missing jewelry," Misty promised. "But perhaps you could provide us with a little more information."
"Oh of course, gladly!" Ethel exclaimed as she sat down on a bench. "It was gifted to me by Edgar on our 50th Anniversary, he actually got it from a little shop downtown that was right between a pizza parlor and the cinema. Now back then everyone was lining up to see the Ghostbusters, I never quite understood what that movie was all about, but I did actually have dinner with Bill Murray, or at least someone who looked shockingly similar to him, and I told him if he wanted to be taken seriously in the business, he needed to portray timeless icon, Garfield the Cat, oh that cat has dispelled more wisdom than any politicians I've had to listen to…"
The Grotto Guardians stepped aside as Ethel continued to regale her tale without no sign of stopping.
"This is going nowhere," Misty sighed.
"I know, I know, but we gotta get some sorta clue," Corny said. "After all, if anyone else found it by now-"
"They would no doubt take it for themselves," Ander sighed with a nod.
"Wait what? I was gonna say they would have turned it in by now," Corny replied.
"If it's valuable, I doubt anyone would be so pure of soul," Ander said. "It's a jackpot just waiting to be claimed."
"So that's what you would do if it weren't for the challenge?" Corny asked.
"Well, I don't say it proudly, but realistically, yes my first instinct would not be to turn in some valuable jewelry with no prospect of reward," Ander explained. "Don't tell me you wouldn't do the same?"
"Of course I would!" Corny exclaimed. "Money ain't all that, I'd rather go through life penniless and knowin' I did the right thing."
"That's very noble of you, but sadly few people share such altruistic principles," Ander remarked.
"Both of you are WRONG!" Yuka snapped. "Neither money nor morals will allow you to survive the brutal cold winds of the NORTH! Shiny adornments ought to be cast away or left where they are! We do not need them!"
"Well this is a great discourse going, but it fails to address the task at hand," Misty said. "Whether the world is a pure paradise, a realist race, of an apocalyptic war for survival...we still need to find that necklace, so let's pull it together and figure it out."
Confessional:
Ander-I admire Corny for his convictions, but I've always found that sort of stance to be a bit naive. I don't mean to look down on those who are able to put moral obligations first, trust me I wish that I could, but it's a losing game. You have to remember that it's not just you, everyone else could just as easily put themselves first, so you need to be prepared to do the same if you want to survive.
Corny-Sure, I getchu, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do, I've dipped and dodged my way around the law more than a few times. But I also always try to make sure I'm bein' the person I can be happy to be. Hearin' Miss Ethel's story, it's clear that some things are worth more than money to people, and it ain't our place to take that away from them.
(Seaside Suckers)
"Alright, alright, sir," Fabio said to the young author his team was working with, "why don't you show us where you get most of your work done? I'm sure inspiration is lurking around somewhere."
"Doubtful," the man sighed. "And you can call me Peter. That's as in Peter Pollock. Perhaps you've read some of my work."
"Can't say that I have," Fabio dismissed.
Peter took the group to his room. The floor was lined with dirty laundry and dishes with half finished food.
"Maybe we can start by clearing this place up," Eden remarked in disgust. "How can you be expected to write anything when you're distracted by that...odor?"
"No, I specifically asked the cleaning staff to leave my room," Peter said. "I cannot have my workplace rearranged, it disrupts my flow."
"The flow that's currently clogged?" Eden asked. "Glad to hear that you can make other people's jobs difficult when your own isn't going well."
"Okay, Peter, buddy, sit down and I will recover your inspiration in a snap," Fabio promised. "Okay, whenever I'm feeling in a slump there's one thing that always gets me going again….Money."
"How predictable," Eden sighed.
"You've published books before, probably got a big paycheck right?" Fabio said. "Well then put that pen to paper and do it again."
"It's not about the money for me, man," Peter said with a shake of his head. "Who cares!? If I wanted to make money, I could have been a lawyer or a doctor. For me it's about the art! I need to tell a story that truly matters! How can I put anything together if there's no MEANING behind it!?"
"Alright, I think I get you, let me take the reins here," Eden offered. "You're absolutely right, it's impossible to even have a unique thought in this world, when the only inspiration we're ever given is what society allows us to think. What we're told to do. So why not take that feeling and transform it into a true psychological horror."
"Hm...it's been done," Peter sighed. "There's no joy to be found in writing horror anymore. It's a well that has run dry, our most basic fears has been put on display time and time again for decades past. Your edgy words may sound meaningful to you, but really are just the faded echoes that have rung through a thousand generations past."
"What the….RUDE!" Eden snapped angrily.
"Remain calm, everyone," Kirby said. "And allow me. Peter, the ideas you seek are out there, but you need to leave behind this place. Not physically, but allow your mind to transcend to new depths. Close your eyes, and picture the great wide sea. Let it call you. Let it take you in. Let the current pull you-"
"I'm sorry, man, I just can't take this seriously," Peter interrupted. "The sea? Really? Such a boring image, I cannot possibly be inspired by this metaphor."
"You dare insult the majestic SEA!?" Kirby raged as he had to be pulled back by Eden and Fabio.
"We're just gonna...let you stew on that for a bit," Fabio said to the author before exiting and closing the door behind them.
"Well that was a waste of time," Eden remarked.
"I fear there may be no helping that man," Kirby sighed.
"We can do this, guys, no one said it would be easy," Fabio assured. "I think we'll just need to make our tactics a little more...aggressive."
Confessional:
Fabio-Oh these artistic types really cheese me off. Sure it's fun to pretend like money doesn't matter to you, but are you really gonna sell your house, your car, your every possession, go out into the woods, eat berries, and do it all for the art? Cause if you are then you need help. And if you're not, then you're just whining for attention and can get over it!
Eden-I am not just some fairweather cookie cutter wannabe rebel. I truly believe that we live in a society where nothing matters and those are my own thoughts not anyone else's! This guy has me all wrong!
(Hilltop Heroes)
The team had walked to the edge of the villa, guided by their assigned guest.
"And then here is where Joey puked, oh wow you should have seen it, he just kept going," the girl recapped.
"I think I can live without that image," Lex remarked.
"So let me get this straight, mkay?" the girl asked. "You guys are like...reality TV stars?"
"Well that's one way to put it," Nora replied. "Personally, I live my life as a star burning bright every single day, but I guess technically I am doing that while on reality TV."
"That is sooo rock and roll," the girl exclaimed. "Totally inspiring, I might want to do something similar. My plans are either rock star or fashion model, you know, gigs where you just have to party all the time. I think I would be so good at that."
"Well uh...never stop chasing your dreams," Nora said.
"Bad advice, we should all be limiting ourselves from pushing the boundaries of our dreams," Natalia added. "If we truly pushed all the way through to that infinite portal we would realize just what godless atrocities we're all capable of and that knowledge alone would render us scarred and petrified."
"You are so metal, I love it!" the girl exclaimed. "I'm Kaylia by the way, and I have to say that I would LOVE to party with you guys, you are all such freaks!"
"I'm sure we would too...but after we find your van," Omber said. "Can you give us any more of an idea of where you decided to take your ill advised road trip?"
"You know I wish I could but it all just feels like a rocking dream right now," Kaylia said. "We're always trying to find new thrills to try. Like the time we went bungee jumping at Grand Canyon, oh my GAWD that was such a hype! Or the trip to the Bermuda Triangle-"
"Okay, but focus on THIS trip, in particular," Omber urged.
"Um...maybe we went over there?" Kaylia suggested with a limp general gesture. "Or maybe it was that way…? Um there were definitely a lot of trees."
"Let's try to think logically," Lex offered. "Clearly you were able to get far enough that it wouldn't be seen from the public areas. That means there has to be a path that was clear enough to get through. If we find something like that, maybe we can look for treads in the ground."
"Heeeey! That is so smart!" Kaylia gasped. "I love the brains on this one, that is SO rock and roll."
"Uh...thank you?" Lex replied.
Confessional:
Nora-You know, I like to think of myself as the life of the party, but wow this crazy cat, Kaylia? She truly lives the party every day of her life. I never thought I'd say this but maybe it's time to press pause, stop the party, and get your life in order first.
Omber-The quicker we get this challenge over and done with, the better. I want to make sure we keep up our numbers, especially if people from other teams are already trying to latch onto ours. I'd like to see them scramble a little bit more and focus on their own problems another day, while we stay comfortable.
(Grotto Guardians)
Misty walked back up to Ethel who remained sitting peacefully on the bench.
"Uh hi there, Ethel?" Misty greeted.
"Oooh Julia, is that you?" Ethel greeted. "How is the bakery doing? You know I've got to come back down there-"
"Uh no, it's Misty," Misty corrected.
"Is it now? I did think it was a little cloudy, but I wasn't sure if that was just my cataracts," replied Ethel.
"Look, we're doing everything we can to locate your lost necklace," Misty tried to say.
"You know, my Edgar gave me that necklace," Ethel began again.
"Yes, yes, I know the very thorough backstory," Misty said. "But what would really help us now is a bit more of a description? You know, give us an idea of what we're looking for."
"Of course, dearie!" exclaimed Ethel. "It's truly divine, one of the most beautiful works of art you'll ever lay your eyes on. Oh how it shines and glistens when the sun hits it just right. And it's made with love, you know? Edgar put his whole heart into bestowing that necklace upon me…"
"And that's all super grand," Misty said, trying to maintain her composure. "But I'm thinking maybe more specific, physical details."
"Ooh yes," Ethel said. "Well did I mention it was truly beautiful? Not like those cheap necklaces you can buy at any old store, no no, this one was something special. You'll know it when you see it, I know I sure did."
"Enough of this!" Yuka barked, as she shoved Misty aside and glared down at Ethel. "Your luxury material is gone, GONE and it's time to let go! If you cannot let go then you will be left alone with it, in the past! Up in the North we know that what is lost is lost and it;'s not coming back. Searching in vain will lead you to nothing but a swift death where you too will soon be forgotten. Let go of your unnecessary possessions, learn to embrace only what truly matters!"
Yuka was met with silence for a minute.
"So about those muffins, Julia," Ethel picked up again, "do you use brown sugar or white? Because I've found it really makes all the difference, but it's all in the measurements…"
"Look folks, I don't think we're gettin' nothin' more outta her," Corny sighed. "We're gonna have to just go 'round and ask anyone if they've seen it. Might as well spread out and get started on that."
The team reluctantly agreed and began to work their way through the crowds.
"Scuse me, ahem uh excuse me, sir?" Corny tried to get someone's attention. "Ma'am if I could just have a moment...no? Okay that's fine. Oh excuse me, ma'am?"
"Yes?" said a stout woman carrying several bags.
"Sorry to bother you, but you wouldn't happened to have seen a necklace lying around?" Corny asked. "One that's 'ceptionally beautiful, I'm told."
"Why don't you check Lost and Found?" the woman suggested, already moving on.
"Well y'know, it's actually funny you say that...oh okay, goodbye then! Thanks for the help!" Corny called.
Yuka meanwhile had taken to the tactic of lodging two trashcans up against the door to a restaurant, effectively trapping everyone inside. People noticed quickly and began to bang on the door.
"What gives!?" yelled a man angrily.
Others began gathering outside, wanting to get in or curious to see what the commotion was about.
"You want something in this life? It's time to earn it! Nothing is given away free and if you want these doors freed then you're going to have to do something for me!" Yuka demanded. "Until someone finds me a missing necklace, these people will remain trapped! It's time to let your survival instincts take hold. What will you do in the face of adversity!?'
"This is crazy!" someone called from the crowd.
"Can we get security over here? Security!" someone else shouted.
Several security guards came running towards Yuka.
"Why do you choose to live in fear!? Why do you rely on others to fight your battles for you!?" Yuka snarled as she fled.
Misty just sighed as she watched the chaos unfold. She slinked over to Ander and tried to lean her body against him helplessly. Ander just seemed annoyed.
"Oh Ander, I'm starting to feel a little hopeless here," Misty sighed. "I'm truly going to need a strong, smart man like yourself to keep me safe if this does go to a vote."
"Whatever," Ander sighed in return.
Confessional:
Yuka-Right now the only thing that matters is survival, and to survive I need to find this necklace. I am attempting to instill that sense of urgency into others, but they refuse to LIVE and instead want someone else to live their lives for them while they prosper in safety! Pathetic!
Misty-It's not looking good for us in this challenge right now, we have nothing to go off of. I need to make sure that if we do go to vote, I've still got the backing behind me to stay another day.
(Seaside Suckers)
The trio reentered the messy room.
"Peter, my good friend, take a seat," Fabio offered.
"I am sitting down," Peter pointed out.
"Good, good, already ahead of the game I see," Fabio remarked. "Look we just think that, NOW!"
Kirby suddenly revealed a roll of rope which he rapidly used to tie the author's hands to the back of the chair. He stepped back to admire his work.
"Now these are genuine sailor knots, meant to withstand any storm," Kirby explained. "No use struggling."
"What is the meaning of this?" Peter demanded.
"I know this may seem a bit extreme, but it's for your own good, I swear," Fabio said. "Since you're not finding motivation to write on your own, maybe what you need is a little more forced incentive. You're not going anywhere until you start churning some ideas."
"So I'll just die here then? I'll just starve left to suckle on my own thoughts of failure as my final act on this earth?" Peter lamented.
"Oh can it, you angsty art freak!" Eden snapped. "You are not special and you are not going to die for your art. That's just something dramatic that pathetic people like you say for attention, well no one's going to here you cry in here!"
"And look I know you said that money doesn't inspire you, but maybe it would help if I said I'll cut you in at 2% of my winnings if I make it to the end of this game," Fabio offered.
"2%? That's a lowball, don't you think?" Eden remarked.
"What? It's not like he's worth very much, clearly if he were good at his job he wouldn't need to find someone else to help him through it," Fabio pointed out.
"You just don't understand the artistic process," Peter sighed.
"Yeah, well clearly you don't either otherwise you'd be getting on with it already!" Fabio snapped.
Eden and Fabio then noticed that Kirby had picked up a book which he was reading through now.
"What are you doing?" Eden asked.
"I just thought that perhaps reading some of our hostage's past work would allow a view into the depths of his minds," Kirby explained.
"And?" Fabio asked.
"There is a certain striking trait about it," Kirby said with a nod. "And that trait is that it's bad. Truly abysmal writing. If I were thrown overboard and marooned on an island with nothing but this book, I would sooner use its pages for kindling in the fire."
"Well that does sounds like the practical use in that scenario, but I appreciate the burn you were going for," Eden remarked.
Confessional:
Kirby-Sometimes when you set out on a voyage, the boat you're on makes all the difference. And Mr. Peter Pollock is clearly trying to brave a tsunami aboard a raft if this is his best writing.
Fabio-And another thing, why is artist, musician, writer even a real job? Oh you can't do your job right now because you're not 'feeling the inspiration?' Anywhere else and that's what we call unemployment.
(Hilltop Heroes)
The team had found a path which they believed may have been the way that the Ford Bronco had gone the previous night.
"So is any of this looking familiar?" Lex asked Kaylia.
"Yeah uh...maybe," Kaylia remarked unconvincingly. "Oh my GAWD, look at this!"
Kaylia sprinted off through the woods.
"Finally, we're getting somewhere," Omber sighed.
"Doesn't this tree look like SO metal!?" Kaylia exclaimed as she posed by a dead tree. "I wish I had my camera, oh Cynthia would LOVE to get a shot of this!"
"Let's try to stay focused on task," Omber urged. "We're well out of the resort now, and I'm pretty sure this island has never been particularly safe."
"I KNOW right!?" Kaylia gushed. "It's SUCH a party out here!? I could just spend the entire night rocking out here in the woods like some sort of wild animal! Oh but I can't cause then Cynthia's parents would kill me. Or Joey's. Probably my own too come to think of it."
"Let's all just be extra careful then, alright Boogeybeans?" Nora suggested. "Don't need anybody getting hurt."
"There will always be danger, no matter where you are," Natalia remarked. "Safety is a lie, a made up word that we give meaning through our own collective delusions. Someone could break into your house and put a knife through your heart at any given time."
"Is she the freakiest or WHAT!? I am obsessed with everything you have to say," Kaylia exclaimed.
The group eventually carried on, following the path that may or may not have been made by a van surging over the wildlife.
"Keep your eyes open everyone," Lex said.
"Yeah I don't know if we'd miss a Ford Bronco somewhere out here in the wild, it doesn't exactly blend in," Omber pointed out.
"Oh my GAWD, wouldn't it be so funny to take a roadtrip in a van through here!?" Kaylia squealed. "We would have SUCH a party together."
"Yes, you did that already...that's why we're here," Omber reminded.
"Right on!" Kaylia said with a smile.
The ground began to steepen as the group climbed a slight hill. As they reached the top, they found it overlooked a massive canyon from a staggering height.
"Whoa, whoa, hold up!" Nora exclaimed as she came dangerously close to walking right over the edge.
The others all stopped just behind her.
"Wow, now that's what I call a moneyshot!" Kaylia exclaimed as she tried to force her way to the front of the group.
This ended up causing some disbalance as well as dislodging the loosely formed ground they were standing on. Nora stumbled forward and ended up dragging Lex with her who tripped Omber who had gotten tangled with Kaylia. Natalia jumped after the rest willingly. After a painful collision to the dusty bottom, the group pulled themselves up to see they were looking at a battered silver van just across from them.
"The Ford Bronco!" Kaylia cheered. "Oh that's right, we ended up going over the cliff and it was craaaaay-zeee! Thank god I remembered that, I have GOT to tell all my friends about how it felt to almost die. But yeah, we had to walk back cause it wouldn't start, I think it's like out of gas or something?"
"It also fell several storeys, so I'd say that's probably the least of its problems," Omber remarked.
"Well, good job team!" Nora said dusting off her hands. "It may have been painful, but we're here now."
"There's just one question though," Lex spoke up. "How are we supposed to get it back?"
Confessional:
Omber-Today I remind myself to be grateful I am not this girl's friend, as it seems like there would be a lot of messes to clean up. I'm starting to understand why there are a line of parents who want her dead.
Kaylia-This group of hotel staff are like the BOMB dot com! It's like a nonstop party, and everything they say is fire. I am LIVING IT UP here at Wawanakwa Resort!
(Grotto Guardians)
Corny was searching every spot he could think of for the missing necklace. He checked inside potted plans, underneath seats, even the tops of roofs.
"I am never gonna find this darned thing!" he sighed as he sat atop the cafe roof.
While leaning over the awning, however, he noticed something bright catch his eye. Something was giving off a shimmering reflection.
"What the? Could it be…" he said to himself as he tried to focus. "It is! There! There it is!"
Across the plaza, he was just able to make out something dangling from a trash can. The boy quickly glanced around and noticed that Ander was not far from it.
"Ander! Ander! Quick! It's over there! It's right there!" Corny shouted. "Ander! Can you hear me!?"
"That guy just does not have an off switch," Ander sighed to himself.
"Ander! Hey buddy! You're so close!" Corny continued to call.
Not getting his attention, Corny dug his hand into his boot and pulled out a handful of small pebbles. He began to toss them towards Ander, though he ended up hitting several other people in the crowd first.
"Sorry! Sorry about that! My bad!" Corny called. "Ander! Look over there! Looky looky!"
Eventually, Corny caught Ander's attention. Ander noticed him pointing frantically in the direction of the necklace. The boy moved to investigate. Soon he saw what he was looking for and moved towards it quicker. However, someone else got to it first. A skinny man who had tattoos all over his body spotted the necklace and pulled it up to examine.
"Excuse me, excuse me, I actually need that," Ander said. "It belongs to a very confused old woman"
The tattooed man however just clutched onto the necklace in his palm.
"Sorry, finders keepers," the man replied before taking off.
"Oh that is very frustrating," Ander sighed. "Get back here, you are making this very difficult!"
Ander pushed people out of the way as he tried to chase after the man. The scavenger tried to ditch Ander but scurrying down a narrow alley. Ander kept him in sight though and continued to pursue.
"I am warning you, you have crossed me now and are going to regret it," Ander continued to call. "Someone stop that man, he has something that does not belong to him!"
Suddenly, Yuka emerged from around the corner and clutched the thief by the throat.
"Hand it over or you stop breathing," she threatened.
The tattooed man meekly offered up the necklace to Ander who had caught up.
"Giving up so easily?" Yuka scoffed to the man. "In the North, you would have starved by now!"
Yuka then tossed the man aside.
Confessional:
Ander-I can't believe we actually got what we needed. This challenge was like finding a needle in a very large haystack, but somehow luck was on our side.
Yuka-If you're going to go through the length to steal something, COMMIT TO IT! You've already crossed that line, you should fight for your prize with your dying breath! Even the thieves of this world have gone soft!
(Seaside Suckers)
The team of three marched into the main foyer with their guest/hostage following behind in a defeated stance. Eden dragged him forward and presented him to Chris.
"Alright, say it, bud," Eden ordered. "Say what you told us."
"I have...found my inspiration," Peter Pollock whispered quickly.
"Oh really? So you're going to write your next novel?" Chris asked.
"Not...quite," Peter Pollock sighed. "After some discussion with your team, I have discovered that...I do not have the talent to be a novelist, and instead have found inspiration in writing manuals for kitchen appliances."
"Huh, not what I was expecting, but I'll allow it," Chris said.
"Oh Chris! Chrissy!" Corny exclaimed as the Grotto Guardians ran forward. "We've got it, we've got it!"
Ander presented the necklace to Chris.
"And there you have it," Chris said. "Seaside Suckers, Grotto Guardians, you have completed the challenge first and will be immune tonight. That just leaves the Hilltop Heroes, where are those guys…"
On the outskirts of town, the team of four was trying to force the battered van along the ground.
"One, two, and PUSH!" Kaylia called from inside the driver's seat. "One, two, and PUSH!"
"Sugarbean, any reason you ain't out here helpin' us?" Nora asked.
"Well, you know, seeing as I got the van out here in the first place, I feel like I've already done my part," Kaylia explained.
"That don't make a lick of sense," Nora sighed.
"Just keep pushing," Omber said. "We're almost there."
"Your definition of almost is way more optimistic than mine," Lex sighed.
After a grueling journey back, the team was finally able to get the van back on the pavement and rolled outside of the main building.
"We're...here," Lex groaned before dropping to the ground.
"That you are!" Chris exclaimed. "And you're also too late! Hilltop Heroes I am sorry to say-"
"Wait a minute!" someone exclaimed.
Everyone turned to see…
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Ethel.
"This isn't my necklace," the old woman declared. "Mine had pearls in it. Surely you heard me mention that."
"You never said that," Misty said through gritted teeth.
"Of course I did, Julia, first thing I said! How could forget such an important detail?" Ethel said.
"Then whose necklace is this?" Ander asked.
"Who knows? Better hand it over to the Lost and Found office," Chris said. "And sadly that does mean, Grotto Guardians, you have failed to complete this challenge and thus will be voting somebody out tonight!"
Confessional:
Lex-My entire body feels like it's going to just shutdown and collapse...but at least I know that we managed to win immunity so I can rest without worry.
Fabio-Personally, I'm glad that we managed to get our prisoner to fold without him accepting my offer, cause no way was I going to part with 2% of my winnings!
Corny-What a rollercoaster today has been. I really thought we had beaten the odds and snagged the win, but nope snatched right away from us. (sighs) I guess now I gotta just roll up my sleeves and make sure I can survive another night!
"Oh boys, yoohoo, could I speak to you for a bit?" Misty exclaimed as she threw her arms around both Corny and Ander. "Let's just scooch away somewhere private."
"You don't have to worry about Yuka, I don't think she has any interest in talking strategy," Ander pointed out. "Pretty sure she's out braving the wilds again."
"Well good, good, because to be honest...she frightens me a bit," Misty said in her most fragile voice possible. "We all saw how she acted today, she's like a ticking timebomb ready to go off on any of us."
"You don't gotta fret about a thing, Miss Misty!" Corny exclaimed. "She may be scary and strong, but she's still just one person and we've got three votes right here. Locked and solid!"
"That's such a relief to hear," Misty cooed. "You're truly my hero."
"Aw shucks, no need for that," Corny blushed. "We're all just tryin' to play the game after all."
"Well, I think it's sweet," Misty praised.
After Corny had left, Misty slid in closer to Ander.
"So what do you think?" Misty asked. "Should I be worried? You don't think he's still holding a grudge against me, do you? Ander, you're so smart, so good a-"
"You really don't need to do all that," Ander sighed as he gave himself a little more distance. "I don't think you need to worry about Corny either. That guy is a better person than both of us and seems to have no trouble offering unconditional forgiveness."
Confessional:
Ander-A part of me does want to pull Corny aside and remind him of how easily Misty voted for him last round. She wanted him gone, in her mind he was the one leaving. But I also have to ask myself if that would do much good. Corny seems pretty hooked on Misty's thorns, so he'll believe what he wants to believe.
Misty-Yuka just does not offer me any purpose. Sure she's strong in challenges, but do I really care about that? So long as I've got everyone I need wrapped around my finger, then winning isn't even all that important. She's not someone I can control though, so it's time for her to fly away.
Ander decided to leave the grotto and stretch his legs around the town. However he did not get far before being pulled into the bushes.
"What the!?" he gasped.
Yuka had pulled him aside and clutched his broad shoulders from either end. She stared directly into his eyes intensely.
"We need to talk," Yuka declared.
"Okay," Ander replied.
Yuka slapped a hand over his mouth and said, "Correction, I need to talk, and you need to listen."
Ander nodded.
"You and I are clearly the strongest of this team, so it is time to weed out the weak. Those that fail to thrive. We've already removed one of these such parasites, but there are more that we must exterminate before they drain us of all blood and we're left as nothing but a diseased husk mewling towards death," Yuka barked.
Ander just nodded.
"I think we can both see who the next bloodsucker to go is," Yuka said. "Misty! She's not helping this team, she is poisoning it, trying to twist it around for her own benefit. Well no one tears me down. I have survived the North, and I did it by stomping out those that would try to take advantage of me. Soon they learn, or they die!"
Ander once again nodded.
"Then it is time to purify this team before it is too late!" Yuka finished.
Confessional:
Yuka-People like Misty would never survive in the North. You need to be able to fend for yourself, not try to leech off of others. If you entire approach is to try to get someone else to do what you want for you, then you are dead weight. You are a burden that will not only drag yourself to an icy death, but everyone else that you cling to. The only thing to do is to sever that rope and let them fall!
Ander-There's no way Corny is going to vote Misty, but if she has to go to a tiebreaker with Yuka, I think it's pretty clear who wins there. I guess now I have a decision to make. Would I be alright if this team went down to three with Misty and Corny? Is this team truly able to withstand more of Yuka's behavior? Much to consider…
(Dock of Shame)
"Grotto Guardians!" Chris exclaimed as the team of four returned to the dock. "Long time no see, why it feels like only yesterday…"
"It was yesterday, Chris," Chef pointed out.
"Yes, Chef, I was being cheeky," Chris explained with exasperation.
"Well you should do it better then," Chef suggested.
"Yeah, Chris, none of us are particularly thrilled to be back here so soon either," Ander said with a shrug. "But here we are."
"It happens," Corny remarked. "Everythin' ain't always gonna be peaches and roses, but you can't let that stop you. The second you give in is when it's all over."
"Paltry Poetry!" Yuka spat. "I've seen many indignant fools armed with nothing but hope and good intention, and the cold winds of the North ate away at those feeble concepts. So easy to preach faith in comfort, but you'll soon realize just how fragile these imaginary tools really are. The only tools that will allow you to survive are those that equate to true strength. Something this team had better keep in mind when it comes to the vote."
"Very well spoken," Chef remarked.
"Eh, I don't necessarily agree," Corny said, "sure it's nice to be strong but there are-"
"I do not care if you do not agree! The North will not coddle to your feelings or your beliefs! The North does not respect all opinions! The North ends the lives or all those who fail to withstand its brutal existence," Yuka declared. "You can spew out whatever other niceties you think will keep you safe, but they will not protect you!"
"If you love the North so much, maybe we should just send you back there already," Misty chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Just throwing that out there."
Misty winked to the camera.
"Well someone is leaving," Chris said, "Chef, let's find out who that is…"
"Ahem, first vote," Chef announced, "is for...Yuka!'
"Pathetic!" Yuka spat.
"Second vote," Chef continued, "Yuka."
"Your scared tactics mean nothing to me! These blows bounce right off my stone cold skin," Yuka stated.
"Third vote," Chef said, "...Misty!"
Misty made a dramatic gasp.
"Final vote," Chef said, "..."
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"Yuka!"
"Hmph, I suppose fear and weakness won this time," Yuka stated. "You will all come to regret this. And never set foot in The North, you've proven that you do not belong."
"If you're still there, I'm pretty sure we'll all gladly stay far, far away," Misty promised.
"Yuka, the Boat of Losers awaits," Chris said.
However, Yuka just marched straight into the water until she was completely submerged.
"Okay, I guess that works too," Chris remarked. "For the rest of you, Misty, Ander, and Corny...you've survived two eliminations, and you're running out of room, better hope you can pick up your act."
"We got this, Chris, just you wait 'n see!" Corny promised.
"Head on back, we'll get to it again soon," Chris said.
Votes:
Misty-Yuka, you simply serve no purpose to me, and honestly I'm getting a little bored of your antics. Say farewell!
Yuka-Misty, you have failed to thrive and have rode off of my strength for too long now. I am shaking you loose and leaving you for dead!
Corny-Yuka, I gotta say you've given this game 110% on the conviction, but it's gettin' a bit much, and there's more to the game than bein' rough and tough. Hope you can figure that out and maybe defrost a bit before we meet again.
Ander-Yuka, sorry to let you down, but as much as you have shown strength...you have also shown a fair amount of mania as well. I have not forgotten the Ball challenge, and we can't really afford you costing us another win through your methods. Be on your way.
(Conclusion)
"We're down to just ten contestants!" Chris exclaimed. "Who will be out next? Will the Grotto Guardians continue to dwindle? Will the Seaside Suckers take another hit? Or will the Hilltop Heroes' lead be cut short? Anything can happen here at Wawanakwa!"
"And what lame ass challenge will Chris come up with next while trying to keep this struggling industry afloat?" Chef added.
"Chef, don't put it like that," Chris pouted. "Our challenges are extreme! Exciting! They push the boundaries!"
"Is that what this was?" Chef remarked.
"Yes it was and there is much more to come!" Chris exclaimed. "The drama is bubbling, the game is afoot, and someone else is soon to be sent home on the next episode of...Total Drama Resort!"]