While I'm doing this chapter, I decided to have a bit of fun. Throughout the chapter, there will be various clues pointing to a show that once did an episode focused on Alcatraz.
Can you spot all the clues and guess the show? Let's see how keen your eye is.
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Chris' racap: "Last time on Total Drama Everything 2, our competitors got nautical to the core when we sent them on an underwater scavenger hunt in the Great Barrier Reef. Some enjoyed it. Others did not. And most of them wound up chased by a shark. Fun times. Too bad I'm now banned from that place because of it. Oh well. During the competition, Lammy made waves by choosing sneaky little Ivy as her partner. All the while, Zelda was being bombarded by alliance offers. Ivy wanted a new partner in the game, and Leo wanted a partner in his kingdom's current war. And while the war idea held promise, the other one didn't do so well. Ivy eventually tried to cheat by damaging Moka's diving suit, keeping her sidelined. However, determined to get Ivy out of the game, Moka took the chance anyway and managed to get the last flag in time to secure safety for herself and Zelda. Too bad it was for nothing, as Ivy convinced Mega Man to give her a special invincibility perk. Naturally, the guilty Mega Man felt he had no choice but to give himself the boot, so he asked everyone to vote him off; something Ivy was counting on the entire time. Oh, and when Yusei tried to question Lammy about her behavior, the resulting argument only drove the wedge between them even further in. Are those two bent on hating each other forever? And how will everyone survive the big house? Find out here, on Total. Drama. Everything 2!"
*theme song*
The mood in the cafeteria was tense. No one had to ask why.
"Who else feels like whenever these two are in a room together, that room's temperature drops ten degrees?" Ruby asked.
"I honestly didn't think it could get any worse than mere cordial, but cool exchanges," Leo said.
One one side of the room, Lammy was polishing her guitar, not saying a word. On the other side, Yusei was quietly eating his lunch, equally silent. So far, they had lived up to the promise they made at the end of their argument two days before, and neither had even tried speaking to the other. In fact, they had even refused to flat-out acknowledge each other. It was as though to one side, the other didn't exist.
"At least it's in a way better than them yelling at each other," Ruby said.
Gaz looked back and forth at the two, amused. "I wonder if they're saying anything about each other in the confessionals."
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"Coldhearted..." Lammy exclaimed.
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"...inconsiderate…" Yusei yelled.
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"...blind…" Lammy continued.
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"...selfish…" Yusei said.
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"...obnoxious…" Lammy added.
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"...insensitive…" Yusei stated.
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"BIG FAT JERK!" both finished.
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Gaz thought for a moment. "Scratch that, I don't want to know."
"At least that means there won't be another argument," Double D told her. "The one they had the other night woke up the entire plane."
Ivy merely scoffed and went back to painting her nails. What did it matter to her whether or not those two spoke to each other? The only time she cared was when their yelling woke her up. She needed her beauty sleep.
However, this did pose an opportunity. With Mandy gone and Zelda outright refusing to work with her, Ivy knew she needed a new helper monkey. A meat shield, of some sorts. Someone who can take the blame for all the dirty work.
Perhaps now, Yusei would be a perfect fit.
(Meanwhile…)
"I'm surprised Ivy hasn't openly declared herself as your enemy yet," Moka told Zelda, who was reading a book.
"Trust me, I imagine she's already planning my downfall. That's why I should be extra careful from here on out in this game."
Moka sat back in the reclining chair. "Well, you never know what she's going to do. All of us were surprised when she threw Mandy under the bus like that."
"And yet she survives challenge after challenge. We all have to admit, Ivy is one smart woman. She's got persuasion and charm, which especially works on the men. For the women, she mostly uses deception."
Moka smiled. "I guess watching the show from the sidelines has its advantages."
Zelda nodded and said, "Technically, I'm not supposed to reveal secrets that I watched. Luckily, we all know what Ivy can do, so there's no trouble."
"Besides, what is there to hide?"
"You have no idea."
Zelda then decided to focus on something the Warners had given her earlier: a good-luck message. She turned on the device so she could watch it.
(Zelda's message, submitted by Vegetalucard)
(We open in on Link, who is sound asleep in the middle of the night.)
Deadpool: Wake up! (Link wakes up startled.) Hey, Link, so anything you have to say to Zelda? (Link gives a thumbs up and smiles.) No, say something, tell her what you want her to do. And you can't yes that text choice thing. (Link says nothing, and looks around awkwardly.) I'm not leaving you alone until you talk.
...
...
...
...
*sigh* Alright, looks like this will be awhile. (Turns camera to face him) Don't worry Zelda, I'll get him to talk.
*end*
Zelda sat back and started laughing.
(Author's Note: I imagine that Link actually does talk, but Nintendo just decided not to show him talking in the games. In fact, I've seen bits in games where he is talking to someone, but no text appears during these. Still, I could also see him as one who prefers actions to words. In fact, if you'll notice, I made a joke about his silent protagonist deal somewhere last chapter.)
(Back in the cafeteria…)
Yakko, Wakko, and Dot came in carrying the familiar video devices. "Step right up and see if your friends have decided to say something to you," Dot said. "Double D, we got something for you." She threw him two of the devices.
Double D caught the device and turned it on, interested.
(Double D's message, submitted by O)
(Dib is in a spaceship)
Dib: Double D, I am Gaz' brother, I hope you treat her nicely because if not all of us are coming after you. If you are watching this don't tell Gaz or anybody else, just put the envelope in Chris office. I am sure he will read it eventually, but I finally found an alien. But the bad news is that he is targeting the jumbo jet and more because I found this envelope that says "PROJECT EARTIERRA". Whatever that is, remember to try to pass it to Chris without telling or showing anyone else. I trust you 'cause you're smart, so good luck.
*end*
Double D was confused. He didn't see an envelope anywhere. Then he turned the second device on.
(Double D's message, submitted by O)
It's a tiny alien of an unknown species.
Alien: Hey, you human, don't listen to that doofus over there (pointing at Dib). We are just visiting that planet because we are on vacation, and he just added that name as an excuse to talk to his sister and you as her boyfriend and we managed to get back that envelope, so forget what he said, Ok? Bye.
*end*
Double D came to a simple conclusion: Gaz had a weirder life than he did.
The Warners had one device left. "This is a TDE first," the Warners said simultaneously. "A good-luck message directed at two people at once."
"Guess who they are," Yakko told the group.
"Time's up, it's the ex-lovebirds," Wakko said. "Cue the awkwardness."
Immediately, the Warners grabbed Yusei and Lammy, because neither wanted to get close to the other. Quickly, everyone else ran out of the room as the Warners pulled the two groaning ex-lovebirds to the message. "Enjoy the film," Dot said as she turned on the device.
(Yusei and Lammy's message, submitted by Storygirl000)
(We open with Story on a beach, sitting in the sand with Ragdoll the Mimikyu. She looks rather upset.)
Story: (sighs) Hey there, you two. I'm too depressed to do anything today, and I think you both know why.
Ragdoll: Kyuuuuu...
Story: Looks like your relationship has fallen prey to one of the oldest relationship tropes of all time: poor communication skills. (She shakes her head) I never liked that trope. It can wreck the relationships of even the closest friends and lovers, all because they're too stupid or stubborn to tell each other what the problem is.
Ragdoll: Kyu! Kyu!
Story: I know it's going to take you two a while to sort out your problems, and I understand that. In the meantime, I sent you both something that might help. Good luck, both of you.
*end*
"Oh yeah, and there's a box that comes with it," Wakko said as he pushed that box to them. Yusei, looking uneasy, opened it to reveal two Pokéballs. One had a guitar sticker on it, and the other had a duel card sticker. In between the capsules, there was also a note. Lammy, also uneasy, pulled the note out so she and Yusei could read it.
Yusei and Lammy,
Inside the Pokéballs are two Luvdisc, a Water-type Pokémon. Lammy, yours is named Yusei. The opposite is true for yours, Yusei. Hopefully these guys will help you to resolve your differences. AND PLEASE, RESOLVE THIS! I LOVED YOU TWO AS A COUPLE, AND I DO NOT WANT THAT TO END!
Your fan, Story.
Well, the moment of being within five feet of each other stopped there, and the lack of acknowledgement was back. Yusei took his Pokéball and walked back into Economy without a word, leaving Lammy with her own Pokéball. The lamb just ignored him and looked at her little red-and-white capsule.
"Okay, little guy," she said, throwing the Pokéball. "Come on out."
The capsule opened, and out popped a strange fish-like creature, shaped distinctively like a heart.
"Luv. Luv."
Lammy stared at it for a good five seconds. "You know I'm still going to call you Luvdisc, right?" she asked it. "I don't do nicknames."
(Meanwhile…)
"I may have given a nickname to the Shinx I won in that challenge, but I'm just going to still call you Luvdisc," Yusei told his own heart-shaped Pokémon. "Seems more fitting."
"Aww, it's cute," Ruby said.
"I did read up on some Pokémon before the show started, and Luvdisc is supposed to be Water-type," Double D stated. "And it's a symbol of love. Although I fail to see how just sending one to each will help."
Gaz was just annoyed. "Story clearly needs to think of better methods."
"Personally, I think the little thing looks dumb, but I guess that can't be helped," Leo said. "It's not like some higher ups intentionally designed Luvdisc to look stupid."
Suddenly, the door burst open, and the Warners came into the room. "We're at another destination, everybody!" Dot exclaimed. "If you'll look out your windows, you will see sunny San Francisco, filled with everything the standard lunatic and hippie could want."
Everyone looked out the window. "Yep, that's the Golden Gate Bridge," Leo said.
(One rough landing later…)
Everyone was riding on the tram system down the streets of San Francisco. "Well, we did do France twice," Chris said, giving his explanation on why they were in California again. "Might as well do California twice."
"Makes sense," Zelda said, holding on to her handle, as the tram was going REALLY fast.
"Why the heck did you decide to let Yakko drive?" Lammy asked, freaking out.
"Right now, I don't know either," Chris told her.
Yakko, on the other hand, was having the time of his life in the driver's seat. "Yahoo!"
Finally, they came to a tram stop at the shore of San Francisco Bay. Everyone was shaking as they got off.
"I hope I never have to ride one of those things again," Yusei said.
"I think it's more appropriate to wish to never ride in anything Yakko drives," Leo said.
Chris, however, quickly recovered and pointed to an island in the distance, one with a large building. "That, guys, is where we're going. And I'm excited about this challenge."
"Wait, I know what that place is," Double D said. "Gulp."
(Later…)
The boat finally came ashore on the island, and everyone stepped off. Now that they all had a close-up view of the building, they all knew where they were. "Holy cow," Ivy said. "I feel right at home."
Chris smiled as he looked at the building. "Yep. Competitors, welcome to Alcatraz!"
Everyone stood in awe in front of the large prison. It had a large main building with three floors, a few other buildings off to the side, and a lighthouse.
"Quite impressive, isn't it?" Chris asked the group. "From 1934 to 1963, Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was in operation and held some of the most dangerous criminals of all time. Even Al Capone took a stint here. This prison, and the island it sits on, are altogether known as The Rock."
"Isn't that name taken?" Gaz asked.
"Shut up. Anyway, with the maximum security of this place, and the treacherous waters of the Bay, everyone believed this place to be impossible to escape from. Despite that, around 36 inmates tried, but failed. Yep, people were that brave in trying to do the impossible. However, there was one possible escape attempt where three men made a makeshift raft, jumped into the bay, and disappeared without a trace."
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"I actually know about that story," Double D said. "It was in 1962. They made a raft out of raincoats, chiseled their way out of their cells with spoons, and even made dummies of themselves to fool the guards. No one knows if they made it, but I did watch an episode of this one show, and apparently it could have been done.
"Thing is, I forgot what that show was called. What was it again?" He started pondering the question.
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Zelda nodded. "Not bad."
"Of course, no one even knows whether or not the three convicts made it across the Bay, but that doesn't matter, because we still have to get to today's challenge. And it's simple because you only have one task: escape Alcatraz with whatever's at your disposal."
Hearing this, everyone started looking at each other. Escape from this place?
"I got special permission -yes, real permission- to use this iconic tourist destination as the location of today's challenge. And here's how it's going to go down. Each of you are going to be locked up in the prison's 9x5x7 cells. It is your job to successfully escape your cell by any means necessary. Chef and the Warners are going to act as guards while you're inside, acting as obstacles to hold you up. But if you're smart enough to deal with them, they won't be a problem.
"Once you have escaped your cell, your next task is to get outside and to the shore, where all you have to do is cross the Bay however you wish to where, according to the original plans, the original convicts were heading to. That is Angel Island, and it's also where the finish line is for this challenge. The first person to reach the finish line will win first-class to the next destination as well as invincibility in the next challenge."
Moka raised her hand. "Next challenge? Why next challenge?"
"Glad you asked, Moka. Because I'm about to drop a bombshell on you guys."
"Which is?" Leo asked.
"Isn't it obvious? The very last person to cross the finish line will be automatically eliminated!"
Everyone gasped.
"Yes, I know. Shocking."
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"I have a strange feeling this isn't going to end well," Ruby said.
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"So you all might want to go as fast as you can. Don't want to be the poor sap left behind. Now, there is one little stipulation your escape. That is you cannot damage the walls or bars, or any other part of the prison. This is a tourist destination, and I'm already on thin ice. So don't damage the prison in any way.
"And hey, it also helps to have experience actually being in jail. You may already know how to escape, giving you an unfair advantage. Heh heh."
Everyone knew where he was going with that statement. Sure enough, the entire group's eyes were on Yusei and Ivy; the only two competitors who had actually been in jail.
"Oh, shut up," Ivy growled at the group. "At least I'm not some goody-two-shoes like the rest of you."
"Uh, have you met me?" Gaz asked in surprise.
"Okay, we still have a challenge to do," Chris said. "But before we do, you guys are getting a costume change. Hope you all look good in stripes. Also, we're doing mugshots of each of you."
"Wait, why costumes and mugshots?" Ruby asked.
Chris smirked. "They make this more fun."
"More fun?" Moka asked.
"For me, at least."
With that, cue a slideshow of each competitor in their mugshots, all already wearing their stereotypical black-and-white striped prison outfit and hat. Each mugshot had a competitor holding a name plate with their names on it. Gaz, Leo, Yusei, Lammy, and Zelda all just looked at the camera, their expressions unchanged. Ivy tried to be as good-looking as possible. Ruby gave the camera a big smile. Moka just tried to look as innocent as possible. And Double D looked absolutely terrified.
Then came the single-file line to their cells, all adjacent to each other. Once each one got to their cells, they stopped right in front of theirs.
"Turn!" Chef barked.
Everyone turned.
"Into your cells!"
The competitors stepped into their cells.
"Lockdown!"
The bars of every single cell shut and locked themselves. The competitors had officially become jailbirds.
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"Not exactly the kind of thing I thought I would do in San Francisco," said Moka.
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"Okay, so I actually have experience being in jail," Yusei explained. "But how does being in jail line up with actually escaping from jail? I was part of an escape plan when I was in the Facility, yes, but a few things happened, and that plan never fully came to fruition. But it didn't matter in the end, because I was released soon after.
"And yet, these guys think just because I have experience in the slammer that I can escape easily? Yeah, kind of a dumb assumption, if you ask me."
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"Of course, I've been in jail before," Ivy said. "And I've escaped many times. Honestly, I'm quite proud of my prison record. In fact, I have been to Arkham Asylum so many times, I know the names of every single guard who works there.
"Speaking of which, happy birthday Bill. In case the rest of you are wondering, Bill's worked there for twenty years. My favorite guard, personally."
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No one said anything while they sat and waited for the time to fly. Some were examining the contents of their cells. Others were interested in the bars. Either way, everyone was getting an understanding of what their cell had.
Then came the music. In classic prison fashion, Ruby had pulled out a harmonica, and now she was playing a sad tune.
"Uh, Ruby?" Zelda asked. "What's with the harmonica?"
"You know how something like this is always played in prison films? Now we have an actual prison setting."
"Then where did you get it?"
"Bought it off Deadpool once."
She went back to playing the tunes, and then Chris came in with a megaphone. "Thanks for the musical background, Ruby. This actually gives me an idea."
Ding! Ding! Ding!
Everyone groaned. "Right now?" Leo asked.
"Yes. Now."
"Thanks a lot, Ruby," Gaz muttered.
(Author's Note: It's just not prison without someone playing a harmonica. It also helps to have that harmonica become the background to some classic blues song that people could sing behind bars. This song is called "Alcatraz Prison Blues".)
Yusei: This feels familiar
Like deja vu.
Ivy: I know how you feel
Having been in this setting too.
Moka: I'm doing hard time
Can't argue with that
Double D: I know this is for tourists
But I think I saw a rat
Ruby: Add my tunes in
And I think you get the news
All: I got the Alcatraz Prison Blues!
(Leo starts tapping on his cell bars to add percussion.)
Leo: This is actually nothing
Compared to the dungeon back home
Gaz: I've seen far far worse
But this place makes me moan
Zelda: I've been like this before
Being a damsel in distress
Lammy: I hope I'm never arrested
Because it would be a mess
Ruby: Famous place to be
But not where we want to lose
All: We got the Alcatraz Prison Blues!
Ruby did a big finish with the harmonica, and Chris clapped.
"Not bad, guys. Oh, and your time's up. Time to start escaping."
Once again, everyone put their focus on their cells. And they were starting to try and make their moves. Moka and Lammy took out bobby pins and started trying to pick their locks; Leo and Ruby were trying to do the same with toothpicks; Yusei, Gaz, and Zelda were searching their cells for something like a key; Double D, after realizing he (shockingly) couldn't fit through the bars, started searching his cell as well.
As for Ivy, she merely sat on the floor. She already had her plan in motion.
The first step was to keep talking.
"So how are you guys?"
Everyone else remained silent, trying to focus.
"Okay, I see. Totally focused on the job at hand. I get that. I'm focused too. Plenty focused. I already have a plan in mind."
Gaz just shook her head and went back to searching her cell.
"Yeah, my plan is practically foolproof. I just need the perfect opportunity to set it in motion. And once that opportunity comes, I'm taking it. Just you wait, guys."
More silence, but a couple people were starting to get frustrated. Lammy, in particular, was extremely annoyed. But Ivy wasn't done.
"You know, I don't get why someone would want to build a prison in a place like San Francisco. This city seems so nice. Where else could you find many interesting places to explore? All they did was make San Francisco less nice by building a prison. Yeah, the prison closed since then, but sheesh."
Everyone was still ignoring her.
"In fact, I remember that story Deadpool forced us all to listen to way way back, like not long after the season began."
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"No doubt she was trying to distract the rest of us by talking," Leo said. "And for me at least, it was sadly working."
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"If I recall, Deadpool's story went something like this: he was one day just walking through San Francisco, minding his own business. Why he was even here, he couldn't say. Then he ran into some random guy, also walking down the street but going in the opposite direction. For some reason, even without the man saying anything, Deadpool was annoyed. So he yanked the beret that the man was wearing right off his head and then ran off with it. The man didn't even notice."
Still no response.
"According to Deadpool, as far as he's concerned, the guy never found out who stole it. Although, if he's watching this, he probably knows now. I mean, crazy, ri-"
"WILL YOU SHUT UP AND LET THE REST OF US CONCENTRATE?!"
Everyone froze, surprised that Lammy had snapped like that. Normally, she would just ask someone to keep the noise down (ironic, considering she's a guitarist in a rock band). But now?
"Well that was interesting," Ivy said. Then, everyone heard whistling. It was Yakko, walking down the hallway.
Ivy smiled. "Okay, here's my ticket." She tapped on the cell bars to get Yakko's attention.
"Yes?"
The plant woman immediately set upon looking as seductive as possible. "Hey Yakko, could you please let me out of this cell? You will be my favorite Warner if you do."
Poor Yakko didn't stand a chance. Hearts quickly appeared in his eyes, and he pulled out his keys to unlock the cell.
Once he did so, Ivy smiled. "Thank you, Yakko." Then, after putting on a shade of a special poison-block lipstick, she kissed Yakko on the cheek. He fainted right there (not from the poison, but from excitement).
"That was easy," she said as she looked at the other cells. "Later, losers."
Everyone gaped at her as she walked away. "Darn, she's good," Leo said.
Those words brought Zelda out of her shock. Clearly, Ivy was indeed dangerous. So the princess checked her cell again, and found a key in the drain of her sink. Using magic, she managed to grab it.
"They put it in the sink," she said. "Go figure."
After unlocking her door, she sighed. "Good luck, guys," she said as she ran off.
As time passed, more people were figuring out their escape plans. Gaz got hers when Chef came down the hallway.
"Hey, I'll give you ten dollars if you let me out."
"Make it twenty, buster. This show doesn't pay me enough."
"Fine."
At the same time, Wakko came into the hallway as well, and Double D set his escape plan into motion. "Hey Yakko, you like food right? Including candy?"
"Yes."
"The cul-de-sac where I live is near a candy store with the largest jawbreakers you will ever see."
Wakko was clearly excited. "How large?"
"Large. Let me out, and I'll try to get you some."
"Deal!"
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"Eddy, you're not going to like this," Double D said. "But in case I don't win the million, save some quarters from your next scam."
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Once their cells were unlocked, Gaz and Double D looked at each other and ran off.
"Jawbreakers, of course." Gaz said. "Why didn't I think of that? Still trying to remember that show you mentioned earlier?"
"You know, I keep trying to think of things that remind me of the show, but the only thing that comes to mind, for some reason, is a talking walrus."
"That's not weird at all," Gaz said sarcastically.
"Oh ha ha."
Back at the cells, Lammy had finally managed to unlock her cell with the bobby pin. "Gotcha."
As she unlocked her cell, she noticed Yusei grabbing a key inside his cell. She looked at him momentarily, then shook her head and ran off.
Yusei didn't even notice as he unlocked his own cell. He just darted off in the direction everyone else had gone. Moka quickly followed, having unlocked her cell with a bobby pin like Lammy did. In a questionable move, Ruby picked the lock with the tip of her scythe blade. Thankfully, it worked without damaging anything. Finally, Leo managed to unlock his cell with a toothpick.
Chris watched this all through the security cameras (no idea if Alcatraz had them, but whatever). "Looks like everyone has escaped," he said. "Now it's only a matter of time before someone gets kicked off."
(Time passes…)
Moka was panting. "How big is this place supposed to be anyway?" she asked, looking around. "I feel like I've been in this same hallway already."
Right now, she was wishing she had a map.
"Sheesh, why can't I remember where we came from in the first place?"
She sighed and ran off in a random direction.
(Meanwhile…)
Ivy was the first to reach the docks. In the water, she spotted several jet skis and speed boats. She imagined it was in case people didn't have their own way to get across. Even with them, she was already ahead of everyone else. No need to cheat this time around.
Just as Ivy got on a jet ski, that attitude changed. Zelda had just arrived at the docks.
"Oh no, you don't," Ivy said as she made a nearby plant slap Zelda in the face before speeding off.
Once Zelda got over the shock of being slapped, she grabbed a speedboat and went after her.
At the same time, Gaz and Double D arrived at the docks. Seeing the vehicles, Gaz grabbed a jet ski and Double D grabbed a speedboat.
But further into the Bay, things were getting ugly.
"Give it up, princess!" Ivy said as she used her jet ski to spray water on Zelda. "This is what you get for not accepting the alliance deal."
"Oh, I knew it."
Not thinking of anything else to do, Zelda decided to launch Din's Fire at Ivy's jet ski, hoping to slow her down. But she missed, and instead it almost hit Ivy herself.
"Hey! You could have killed me! Or singed off my eyebrow or something!"
"Sorry."
Now even angrier, Ivy used her jet ski and rammed Zelda's speedboat with it, shutting down the engine and nearly causing Zelda to fall in the water. She only barely managed to stay on the boat.
"Take that!" Ivy laughed as she sped off.
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"It's official," Zelda said. "That is one savage woman."
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Zelda looked at her boat, now stuck. So she checked the compartments, and suddenly found an oar. Taking it, she started rowing her way across the Bay, probably feeling like the guys in that one escape attempt.
"At least I'm getting more info on what she'll do to win this competition," Zelda said, a hint of annoyance in her voice.
(Meanwhile…)
Yusei arrived at the docks and saw the vehicles. However, he wanted to test a little something.
"Okay, Luvdisc," he said, throwing the Pokéball. "Come on out."
The ball opened to reveal the heart-shaped creature, which immediately jumped into the water and waited.
"Guess you already know what we're doing," Yusei said. Then he jumped into the water and grabbed onto the Pokémon.
"To Angel Island, and fast."
Yusei and the Luvdisc started making their way to Angel Island. At the same time, Ruby and Leo arrived at the docks, each grabbing a jet ski and speeding off.
(On Angel Island…)
Ivy finally reached the shore, where Chris was standing and waiting. "Ha! I'm here! Give me my victory, McLean!"
Chris rolled his eyes. "Fine. You get the invincibility for next time and the first-class. Happy?"
"Yes."
"Good. Now stand over there and wait for the other competitors."
Feeling satisfied, Ivy stood at the waiting area, hoping Zelda wouldn't be able to solve her problem in time.
But her hopes were soon dashed. She saw Zelda rowing her way to shore. The princess went to stand next to Chris.
"Zelda, you get second place. Well done."
Zelda smiled, relieved to have made it. Ivy just glared at her.
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"This isn't over," Ivy seethed. "Watch your back, missy."
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Double D was the third to arrive, with Gaz closely following him.
"Okay, you both are safe. Although, did you two just want to stay close during this?"
They both hastily shook their heads.
"Oh. Sorry I asked."
(Meanwhile…)
Moka and Lammy both arrived at the docks at the same time, having gotten lost several times on the way there. They just looked at each other and headed into the water, Lammy getting out her own Luvdisc and Moka heading to the sailboat.
"You know, I thought I would be done with water after the last challenge," Moka said, starting the engine. "Oh well."
She looked at the corner of her eye and saw Lammy swimming with the Luvdisc. And somehow, she was going really fast.
"Okay, gotta move."
(On Angel Island…)
A soaking-wet Yusei stood in front of Chris, who looked at the Luvdisc.
"I thought that certain Pokémon was supposed to suck," he said.
"Guess it didn't want me to lose."
"Fair enough. And here comes Ruby now."
Ruby went to stand next to Yusei. "Guessing you used Luvdisc?"
"Yep."
"Makes sense."
Both of them went to where the rest were waiting. Ivy looked at Yusei, slightly relieved. She had been formulating a plan ever since she won the challenge, and she needed Yusei for it. Now, it would surely go off without a hitch.
Soon, everyone saw Leo also arrive at the island, glad to have made it. "Yes! Not getting eliminated today!"
"Yeah, you're safe," Chris told him. "Now go and celebrate with the others. Just because your dad won't kill you since you're still here doesn't mean I will if you celebrate for just being the seventh here."
"Wait, who's left?"
"Lammy and Moka."
At that moment, the realization hit Yusei, who had been silent since he got on the island. Lammy wasn't there yet. Yeah, they weren't speaking to each other, but still….
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"To tell the truth, I am still kinda hoping things are patched up," Yusei said. "But she's too stubborn. And I may even be to blame in some way. The thing is, I don't want things to stay the way they ended up the other night, but I doubt we can change anything."
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Moka and Lammy were neck and neck. While the Luvdisc didn't seem like much, it was speeding its way as fast as the speedboat. Lammy and Moka repeatedly glanced at each other as they kept going. Neither were looking to be eliminated.
Soon, both were nearing the shore of Angel Island, and they were still neck and neck. Yusei looked at them both, his expression unchanged. But inside his head, he was secretly worried.
Then, just as both of them were within only fifty feet from the shore, Moka's speedboat suddenly started slowing down. She checked the meter to see that the boat had run out of gas.
"Uh oh."
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"I may have left one boat with less gas than the others," Chris said. "My idea of fun in this challenge."
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Lammy dashed onto shore and quickly stood in front of Chris. "Heh, I made it."
"Yes you did, Lammy. It was close, but you made it, and you're safe."
The lamb grinned and went to join the others, with the Luvdisc following her. At the same time, Moka, having also found and oar on her boat like Zelda did, stepped on land and stood in front of Chris, who was laughing.
"Done in by a gas tank," Moka said. "Not bad."
"Yeah, I had kinda hoped one of the first people to arrive would grab that boat. Zelda's only stopped because of sabotage. You got unlucky, and despite that, I am laughing, because this whole thing was hilarious."
"Just tell it to me straight."
Chris smiled grimly. "Well, you were not a bad player throughout the season, and the reef challenge gave you my respect. Honestly, I thought you weren't going to last this far in the game. Unfortunately, you were the last to arrive, so Moka, you're done."
Moka nodded. "Out of curiosity though, who won?"
"Oh, that was Ivy."
Everyone groaned.
"That's right, everybody," Ivy said. "Now I'm safe next time too. I hope you all enjoy it, because I certainly will."
"Oh, go suck a lemon," Gaz snapped.
"And choke on it," Zelda said.
"Oh I'm sorry princess. What was that?"
Zelda just glared at her, but Moka spoke up.
"Just the fact that you should be ashamed for using your assumed looks to get ahead. I'm surprised it wasn't you who sabotaged that boat, though I think you would have done something to me eventually. Now being away from you is worth the elimination. And personally, I don't even think you're that much to look at. Wanna know why?"
"What?"
"Because without kindness, frankly you're quite ugly in my opinion."
Everyone looked at each other, surprised and happy. "Burn!" Ruby exclaimed.
Moka smiled.
Ivy just stood there, shocked. "Meh, it wasn't that hurtful."
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Ivy screamed in anger. Then she calmed down, saying, "Oh, get a grip. You need to focus on your plan. You're getting more and more vulnerable. You need an ally. And this time, you're going to need more than just charm. You're going to need something else."
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"Nice burn, Moka," Chris said. "Anyway, Ivy, since you came in first in the challenge, you get first-class as well as being immune for the next challenge. Also, you are permitted to choose one other competitor with you to join you in first-class. Who's it going to be?"
"Let's see….." She looked around. "I think I'm going to choose Yusei."
The duelist's eyes widened. "Wait, why me?"
"Just because."
"Gulp."
Chris laughed. "Okay then. You two get to enjoy first-class. As for Moka, you can go ahead and say your goodbyes, then take a hike. Since you're pretty much already eliminated, we're not dropping you off the plane this time."
"Good."
Double D waved at her. "Sorry it ended like that, Moka."
"It's fine. Good luck on the rest of the season."
Everyone else (except Ivy) waved at her. "Bye, Moka," Ruby said.
Moka waved back. "Bye, guys."
Everyone else walked off, then Moka realized something. "Guess I gotta find my way back now. I wonder if the bus even goes this far from the school."
(Later…)
"By far, the best burn ever," Leo said.
"Yeah," Gaz said. "I didn't like her much, but Moka had guts. Oh, and Double D, are you still trying to remember that show?"
Double D tried to think, but…."Oh, I give up."
"How do you think Yusei's handling the fact that he's in there with Ivy?" Zelda asked.
"I don't know," Ruby stated.
"You know she has that dust trick of hers," Double D mentioned. "She can turn any man into her servant with that stuff. I hope he tries to avoid that, but I believe he's going to fall under her trap by the time we get to the next stop."
"I wonder what Lammy thinks of the whole situation," Leo said, looking at the lamb. Lammy was looking out the window, saying nothing.
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"He's smart," Lammy said indifferently. "He can take care of himself."
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Yusei sat at the counter, drinking a smoothie. He glanced at Ivy, who was reading a tanning magazine.
"So why me?"
Ivy looked at him. "What do you mean?"
"I mean, what do you want out of me? I'm not stupid. You picked me to be in here for a reason. I know you want something. What is it?"
"Tell me, has your heart fully healed from the heartache Lammy has caused?"
Yusei remained silent.
"I thought so. You know, as shocking as it may seem, I have had my heart broken too. I feel your pain, Yusei."
"And?"
"And I think you and I could work well together. You team up with me, and I will get that lamb eliminated and out of your life forever. We can make the final two. We can be unstoppable."
Shaking his head, Yusei stood up. "Forget it. Not after what happened to Mandy. I'm not falling for any of this."
"You sure you want to say no?"
"I'm sure. I'm outta here."
He started going for the door, but then Ivy grabbed him by the shoulders.
"Sorry, but I'm afraid I wasn't asking."
And before Yusei could escape, Ivy blew a kiss directly at him, and he was hit by a cloud of pink dust.
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This was definitely shorter and simpler than more recent chapters, and it still took two months to write? Sheesh.
Just like Harry, Moka hadn't really done much to the overall story. I had given her a few more really good moments than him though, such as the Inner Moka appearance, her facing her fears, and her burn to Ivy in this chapter. But in the end, Moka had to be eliminated. Sorry to the seven people who suggested her for this season.
Not much went on this time. We had a bit more issue involving Ivy's hold on the game. She managed to sabotage Zelda by ramming her. And now it looks like she has set her sights on Yusei as an ally.
Speaking of him, he has definitely expressed a wish to patch things up with Lammy, but he doesn't think that possible. By contrast, Lammy shows no concern at all at the thought of him being in first-class with Ivy. Perhaps now would be the time to really worry about these two.
As for Zelda, she really has her hands full with trying to keep safe from Ivy. Still, she's a brainiac, and she knows how to handle herself (though numerous kidnappings make people think otherwise). Maybe she can come out on top.
Now we gotta discuss what I mentioned in the beginning note. Throughout the chapter, Double D has been trying to remember a certain television show, a show that I love. And in this chapter, numerous references are mentioned. Perhaps you can help jog Double D's memory by answering what the show is. And in case the references weren't enough or you didn't catch them, here's one more hint: it was revived not too long ago with new stars after the original show ended, but in my opinion, the new guys couldn't compare to the legends that came before them.
With that, now it's your turn to guess the show. You have until the next chapter is released to figure it out. Those who give me the correct answer will receive a shout-out from me (lame prize, I know). However, I'm going to lay down a few rules, since I am a little worried about some people just copying their answers from other reviews. So make sure you actually know the answer and don't just copy off of someone else. If you wish, give me some proof like point out what a certain reference means (anyone who uses proof, that proof cannot be reused by someone else). As an extra precaution, users can only give me their answers by PM.
So good luck with that, and here's info on the next chapter.
In a repeat of the TDWT wedding challenge, the remaining eight competitors are going to Niagara Falls. And just because Chris is trying to get love in the air doesn't mean things are going to be peachy keen. One competitor continues to be prey to another's trap, and someone is extremely reluctant to do something about it. Two other competitors find themselves alone but working together for revenge. And when two competitors get into a full-on rivalry, only one can win.
What should you do now? It's clear. Read and review, fav and follow, send in challenge ideas and suggestions, give me good-luck messages and audition tapes, vote for your favorite competitor, and figure out what the mystery show is.
And with all that said, TheMasterKat out!
