Episode 4: Shady Deals and Shaky Showbiz
Happy holidays, everyone. Hope you're all doing well. After a lot of curveballs getting thrown at me lately, we got a brand spanking new chapter set in the big Apple. A big thanks goes to PrincessGumballWatterson777 for suggesting today's challenge.
1602jaw: JFK just couldn't help himself. But he was funny till the end. Seriously, though. Miu tinkered with Reg without him knowing. That's messed up, even if they did win because of it.
ThelastCyberKnight: Well, JFK played the best he could. But he could never out macho a badass like Kiryu. And Kiryu's plot with Glass Joe will be a fun one.
PrincessGumballWatterson777: I never saw it as a Christmas episode, but I guess it kind of fits. And I'm glad you're enjoying Miu. I like rude and crude characters.
TheMasterKat: JFK can be a pain at times, so I can understand not everyone likes him. Starscream isn't the only guy DIO will try to strike a deal with. And I'd keep a close eye on Coyle. She's more than a villain. She's a genius with many screws loose.
ortizale317: Well, there is something Spiderman related you'll see today.
Happiness studios: If you reread episode 2, you'll see they had a reaction at the end. Charlie was saddened about it, and DIO was upset that he didn't get to be the one to send him packing. His elimination had an impact, and I'll explain it a little more today. As for Carla, there's still a little more for her. She looks after Wendy and is concerned about her safety. But I have more for her, so don't worry.
N8han11: You're right. Much like King Harkinian, he'd get old very quickly, and in high doses. But now, COULD GLASS JOE ACTUALLY WIN A FIGHT? We'll see.
That guy: Guess it was obvious. JFK really shined despite his short run.
NeverSafeFromWaluigi: Very glad you enjoyed. It was fun to write JFK, and he was funny to the end. And you're in for a very fun New York challenge.
MonkeyBot54: Well, we're still early on in the game, so you're in for quite a ride.
thenewsubwayguy: Yeah, they're gonna do some crazy things. I've got plans for them.
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"Last time on Total Drama Infinite 2, things got cold for our teams in the chilly heart of Antarctica. In a race to Mt. Erebus, things really got heated for everyone. Even though all hope seemed lost for them, Miu's knack for inventing helped the Hungry Wolves take the win. JFK tried to show off to the girls and prove he's more macho than Kiryu, but his plan blew up, just like his chance at the million. On another note, Kiryu offered to train and make Glass Joe more macho. And from the shadows, DIO is making some shady moves of his own. With so many unique interactions, the possibilities truly are infinite. Find out what happens today on Total! Drama! Infinite!
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We see the Hungry Wolves, enjoying the perks that came with winning first class. Spinel and Deadpool were busy loading sweets into a basket for a yet unknown reason. Edgeworth was busy working on some documents he brought with him. Rick and Miu were busy observing Reg and giving him some maintenance (with his permission this time)
"This is still some cool ass shit!" Miu exclaimed as she was finishing up screwing some bolts back into his arm. "This skin is durable, yet so flexible. Hard, yet soft…" The oddball inventor blushed as she said those last words.
"Um…...yeah." Reg said awkwardly. The robot also nervously blushed at these comments. "No matter how much I train, my muscles still won't grow." He said glumly.
Miu just laughs at this. "When you're Miu fuckin' Iruma, you can do anything. I can give you big and strong fucking muscles. For now, besides the rocket boosters, I installed a wicked ass flashlight, some wall walking capabilities in your boots, and a radio. You can now even perform necessary tasks such as eating and exercise while you sleep."
"When you sleep, huh?" Rick asked. "Quite *urp* interesting, considering nighttime takes up half of all time." The nihilistic scientist then looks over at Reg. "Wait. Do you even eat? And if so, does that mean you shit just like us humans?"
"Well, I can eat just like you guys." Reg answered. "But I also get energy from electricity. But if there's no outlet or power source, then food will do."
"Well, aren't you just a unique little toaster." Rick snarks.
"T-toaster?!" Reg cried. He felt insulted. "That sounds irredeemable!"
"Don't you worry." Miu told Reg. "When I'm through with you, you'll be a big and strong strapping robot like Keebo."
"Ooookaayy…." Reg said, feeling a little concerned for himself. He didn't know what the Ultimate Inventor meant by that, but it couldn't be anything good.
Elsewhere, Aqua was seen kicking back and chugging down her third bottle of liquor. Next to her was a sleeping Terry. His chair was reclined back, hat tipped over his eyes b and a partially eaten club sandwich in his hand.
Finishing up the bottle, the goddess looked inside it with an unsatisfied look on her face. She wanted more, but didn't want to get up and do it. She was just too comfy.
Looking over at Terry, this gave her an idea. She tried shaking Terry awake, but he was still sleeping like a rock. Well, time for plan B.
Aqua takes the empty glass bottle and smashes it over Terry's head. The Lone Wolf jerks awake and cries out in pain.
"WHAT THE HECK?!" Terry yelled.
"Very sorry about that." Aqua told very kindly. "It was an accident. But since you're awake, would you mind going and getting me another drink?"
"I don't know….." Terry answered as he rubbed the newly made bump on his head. "Maybe I should get this looked at. I mean, I've been through worse, but-"
Aww, please." She pleaded. "I wouldn't have asked anyone else. You're a pretty cool and strong guy."
"Well, that's flattering, miss, so sure. I'll be right back with those drinks."
As Terry goes to get them some more drinks, Waluigi was watching this whole spectacle. The lanky cheater took the opportunity to plop down in the seat next to Aqua.
"Umm…..can I help you?" Aqua asked, with a hint of condescending annoyance in her voice. "I'm busy drinking here."
"Yes, Waluigi can see that." Waluigi glanced over at Terry, who was talking with Deadpool while he was getting some booze. "You've really got that Bogard guy wrapped around your finger, don't ya?"
Aqua raised an eyebrow at this, but rolled her eyes and tried to act nonchalant. "He's just being nice. It's not like I'm using him or stringing him along or anything like that."
"Who said anything about "stringing him along"? But those are your words, not Waluigi's. If you ask me, that's actually a smart idea. Putting up an act and acting like you're into him is genius?"
Aqua blinked, not expecting a compliment like that from this weirdo. "Oh. Thanks. I guess it is a smart idea. If you think it's a good idea, then why don't you do something similar with Isabelle? She seems to like you and wants to get to know you."
Waluigi laughed at the thought of working with Isabelle. "Really?! Her?! And Waluigi?! No way! Not a chance! Anyway, the main reason Waluigi came over here was to see if we could work together. Even with Terry, though Waluigi doesn't really care for him. You'd have the greatest ally around, the Great Waluigi!"
"That's quite an interesting offer. You know what? Sure. It'd help to have more allies. You got yourself a deal."
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"On a team like this, you either make allies, or it's your butt on the chopping block." Waluigi said. "Partner up with someone who already has a partner, and you stand a chance. Well, at least Waluigi stands a chance. WAHAHAHAHA!"
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"He's an odd one, but I guess I'll let him join me and Terry." Aqua said. "The more votes you have, the safer you'll be."
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As Terry was grabbing a couple of liquor bottles, Deadpool took the opportunity to strike up a conversation with the lone wolf.
"I must say, you seem to be quite the lady killer." Deadpool said, gesturing towards Aqua. "You two would look cute together."
Terry just shrugged that comment. "Nah. I'm just being nice. I'm a lone wolf, after all."
"Yeah, but you don't wanna be a "lonely" wolf all your life." Spinel pointed. "You can't lie to us. The way you look at her is telling enough."
But Terry still tried to deny it. "No way."
"She's right." Deadpool continues. "As the resident shipper on board, I can't sit idly by and not say something. I'm great at relationship advice. Look at Edward and Tari. I gave him some helpful advice, and they're happy together. And Miu is basically gonna build Reg into her perfect husbando."
"Look, it's nothing like that." Terry told them. "I'm just being nice is all. You're just delusional."
"But who's really the delusional one?" Deadpool said cryptically. By this point, he and Spinel filled up baskets with freshly baked pastries. "One word. De. Ni. Al."
The merc then looked over to his gem friend. "Well, we got a job to do. Let's go, best buddy."
"Right on!"
The friends then head to economy, leaving a confused street brawler.
"Wait, what are you guys doing?"
"Tossing sweets to the world below, my amigo."
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"I'm not like that." Terry said defensively. "I mean, sure she's beautiful, and asks me to do things for her, and is all over me like Mai is for my brother Andy, but I've never been the best of luck with women. I came here here for the money, and to fight strong opponents. It's all to raise my skill level at the end of the day. He's crazy. Besides, money can't buy love."
"No, but it can sure as hell rent it!" He heard Miu say from outside.
Terry sighed. "Either she's got good hearing, or this confessional isn't that private."
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"Give them time." Deadpool said. "He may not know it, but that girl will bring out the wolf in him. They are my new OTP."
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We then move to the cargo room. DIO stormed in there, dragging Max by the arm behind him. Earlier, the cynical devil child was taking a walk to get away from his crazy team, DIO spotted the kid and set out to complete a plan he thought up.
"Ow ow ow ow ow ow!" Max cried." Let go of me, you shithead!"
"Fine."
The vampire let go of him once they knew they were alone.
"Alright, what do you want, you creep?" Max asked. "Did you lure me out here to wear my skin or something?"
"What the hell kind of thoughts go through your mind, no!" DIO snapped. "Look, I'll get right down to the point. I like your attitude, kid. I saw that attitude and your skills in that last challenge. I like that."
"Yeah, that doesn't sound creepy at all." Max snarked.
"What a little smartass." DIO thought to himself. But remembered why he brought this kid here. "What if I told you I can make you a millionaire?"
Max raised an eyebrow. He had his attention now. "I'm listening."
"I can help you win." DIO continues. "All I ask is you help me eliminate certain competitors."
"I'm gonna stop you right there." Max said with a hint of skepticism in his voice. "You're really throwing a lot at me right now. And I know deals are not a one way street. What are you getting out of it?"
"Nothing big. I'm just wanting payback. That pelican eel was one of the ones I wanted to get rid of, but unfortunately missed the chance."
Suddenly, DIO began to look irritated. "It frustrated me so much! That freak is gone, and now I don't get the satisfaction of taking him down! Of all people, why him?!"
"You done?" Max deadpanned. "I get it. You have a hate boner for the guy. Big whoop."
DIO regained his composure, and continued talking. "Ahem. My mistake. But yes, I'm livid at that revelation. But there's still people I have a bone to pick with. You help me take them out, and I'll help you reach the finale."
"Hey, it's easy cash. What the hell? I don't mind causing some trouble."
"Well, that was certainly easy enough. Just know for now that you better get ready to sing and dance for today's challenge. In New York."
Max gives an assuring nod. "Alright. As much as I hate the sound of that, I guess it helps to know what I'm dealing with. So, anybody you have in mind to get rid of first."
"Easy." DIO answered. "That girl and her cat. If I can't eliminate that monster mouth, then she's the next best thing."
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I know what you're thinking," DIO said. "Why promise both Max and Starscream I'd help them win? Well, it better helps my cause. They don't need to know I'm helping the other. All it takes is busting out a little bit of that charisma. Maybe picking out new competitors was actually a smart move, Chris."
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Out in the cafeteria, everyone was having breakfast. Joe, Kiryu, Wendy, Carla, Harley, and Susie were chatting with each other. They went quiet when they heard the door open and swing DIO walk by. But this gave Susie an idea. The teen stuck her foot out, and DIO tripped and fell. Everyone except Kiryu laughed at this. (The guy wasn't much of a laugher)
"Oh ha ha, you little pleb!" DIO snapped.
Susie ignored his comment and whispered something into Harley's ear. Harley nodded and said, "Hey DIO! Alucard is better than you!"
DIO gritted his teeth in frustration and stormed off.
"Like I said before, I know we're gonna get along just fine." Susie said.
"I agree." Harley said. "It's kind of like looking in a younger mirror."
The two tough girls fist bump at this.
"Any chance I can join that crew of baddies you've told me about?" Susie asked.
"Maybe. I think you'd fit right in."
"Why do you all give that man a tough time?" Kiryu asked.
"The prick has it coming." Susie told him. "He's a slimy little snake who's a master manipulator, and nearly got French press over here killed."
Joe nodded slowly, having mild PTSD at the mention of his bout with DIO in the ring last season.
She then gestures to Wendy. "And this girl right here opened up a can of whoop-ass on the guy."
Wendy sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. "I mean, I just tried to help a friend, is all." She said humbly. "I don't see myself as much of a fighter."
"You should honestly give yourself more credit, child." Carla told her.
"I-I'm sorry." She said. "I guess...I just want it to get to my head.
The Exceed just sighed. "Sometimes, I worry you'll be the death of me."
"Even I haven't seen what he's done, but he has that kind of face you just wanna smash in the face, with a bat, like a watermelon. Every time you look at him." Harley said.
"In conclusion, I'm just making up for lost time." Susie finished. The girl laughed her monstrous laugh until something stopped that.
Charlie came over to the table, and quietly sat down. She didn't say nothing, didn't look at anyone, and had a somber look on her face. This was different from the optimistic, altruist, sing-songy Charlie they normally knew.
The rest of them sitting there all exchanged a look.
Kiryu was the one to break the silence. "Still miss him, huh?"
"Yeah." Charlie mumbled. "The worst part is that he didn't get the chance to say goodbye."
"What's this about?" Susie asked. She honestly felt worried for one of the only few friends she had on this show. "You still miss the big guy, huh? I don't wanna sound like an ass, but it's not like he's dead or anything."
"I know." Charlie told her. "But it's still so crazy. He was a pillar of emotional support for me just as much as I was for him. That kind of happens when we have the families we have. How'd he even get eliminated anyway? He didn't do anything wrong."
Suddenly, she felt a comforting hand over her own. She looked over to see that it was Wendy, looking at her very seriously.
"I get how it feels." Wendy told her. "I miss him a lot, too. But Carla told me it wouldn't help me to worry about it. It hurts he didn't get to say goodbye, yes, but this is just like last time. You weren't like this then."
"Yeah, but something about this time feels different."
"Look, I'm sure he's okay. I don't know how he got out first, but he wouldn't wanna see you like this."
"I'll give you a good reason why he was." Cinder said as he walked up to them. "He had a huge target on his back. The new competitors on his team must've feared him, and decided to give him the boot."
"And why would we believe you?" Joe asked skeptically.
"I'm just saying it's a problem we all should worry about. Us veteran players just need to watch our backs, lest these new guys pick us off." Cinder then pointed to Wendy. "Especially you. You won, so who knows if you'll be next."
"Wendy, don't listen to anything this wench tells you." Carla sternly warned. "She's bad news. This is all probably a ploy she's trying to set up."
"Who asked for your opinion, pet?!" Cinder snapped. Carla looked awfully offended at being called a "pet" again.
But Charlie asked something before the cat could reply back.
"Is that true?"
Cinder nods. "Precisely. I'm not telling you to be nice or anything. I'm just giving a general warning. So don't feel sad. Feel concerned, just as I am."
The demon princess nodded knowingly. Even though they didn't like each other, it made sense. It felt a little better for her to know that there was a real cause.
At that moment, Mae came in and walked up to them, interrupting the conversation.
"Hey, uh, real sorry to interrupt your little talk." Mae told them. "Well, not really, but who gives a damn? Anyway, so like, you guys might wanna come take a look at this?"
Curiously, everyone gets up and heads over to the windows, where everyone else was. Down below, they saw a bustling metropolitan city. Tall skyscrapers, many out and about people, busy traffic, and a few recognizable landmarks. The Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square.
"It's amazing." Tari awed.
"It's Midtown Manhattan!" Charlie happily exclaimed.
"Guess that means we're in New York City." Tatsumaki deadpanned. "How cute."
"How can you say it like that?!" Iida chastised. "New York is an amazing city! It's one of the most highly populated cities in the world, and filled with tons of culture and international diplomacy."
"No kidding." 18 said as she continued to look down below. "Looks like a busy place."
"That's right, everyone." Chris said through the P.A system. "Today's stop is New York City! The Big Apple! More specifically, we're hitting Broadway for today's challenge!"
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"Ah, New York." Deadpool said. "The city that never sleeps. One of my favorite places to kick back. This'll definitely be the best day ever!"
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"This place is a dream come true." Charlie beamed. "One of the entertainment capitals of the world. And Broadway, no less. I've always wanted to go to Broadway. Maybe….just maybe…. this is what I need to feel better."
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After landing at an airport, Chris led everyone through the city streets to where the challenge would take place. During this, the contestants got many weird stares from the locals.
"Do we really stand out that much?" Sora asked.
"Well, some of us do." Edgeworth answered, looking at outliers such as Starscream and Deadpool. Those guys definitely stick out like sore thumbs.
"Geez." Miu groaned. "They act like they've never seen a hot bitch like me before."
"Face it." Rick said. "We're basically a traveling freak circus to these schmucks."
Looking around, Isabelle said "It honestly looks like you could easily get lost in this place."
"You think you could easily get lost here, try living in Tokyo." Kiryu said.
"Regardless, it looks beautiful." Tari awed.
"Sure is." Edward added.
Eventually, everyone was brought to a huge building with the words "Majestic" in bright letters. Once inside, they were brought to a vastly huge room. There appeared to be over a thousand seats, and a big stage with a red curtain over it.
"Everyone, welcome to the famous Majestic Theater!" Chris said. "Where today, you'll have to be a little more musical than you normally are."
Most of the cast groan at this news.
"Just great." Susie groaned. "More singing."
"Don't forget dancing. You'll be doing that, too." Chris added. "But today's challenge will be a little more of a simple one. Each team will have to practice singing and dancing to song from a famous show that has appeared on Broadway. You will each have four hours to practice, from there, you'll perform your song in front of a guest we brought to judge each of your performances.
"The team that impresses them the most will be treated to a one night musical show on Broadway, plus a five star dinner on top of first class. The team that has the weakest performance will be sending someone packing."
"Just what we needed." Terry said. "A whole challenge dedicated to singing."
"Sounds like too much of a hassle." Aqua added.
"Well, suck it up." Chris told them. "You'll also have access to any props, costumes or special effects. Any skills you have at your disposal are allowed to make it as flashy and vibrant as possible. It takes more than just singing and dancing to win. Style counts. You can also provide just dancing or musical accompaniment, but everyone's gotta participate in some way."
"What songs are we singing?" Tari asked.
The host answers this question by pulling out a top hat. "I need one person from each team to come forward and take a slip of paper out of this hat. Whatever song you get is the one you perform."
Charlie, Deadpool, and Max step forward, and each of them pull out a piece of paper. Once they each have one, they read what they got.
""A Little Priest" from Sweeney Todd!" Charlie gasped. "I love that musical!"
"I thought it was a movie." Meggy said.
"We'll, it started off as a play, and then it got a movie."
"Oh goody goody!" Deadpool squealed. "I got "A Freak Like Me Needs Company" from Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark!"
"Spider-Man?" Reg asked. "Who's that?"
"Oh, just another superhero like I am." Deadpool said. "Although he's only half as cool and sexy as I am."
"So what did we get, Max?" Joe asked his teammate.
Max's face practically went pale as he saw what they got. "Oh, you gotta be shitting me!"
"What's it say?" Mae asked.
"It says…"It's The Hard Knock Life" from Annie!"
"Come on, those other teams got better ones." Starscream huffed. "We get landed with the worst one!"
"Well, that doesn't sound so bad." Iida said. "Annie is a wonderful story."
"He's right." Tatsumaki said. "Whether you like it or not, we're being judged by the performance, not the song itself. Even though I don't really care for it."
"Speaking of which, who is this judge we have to impress, if I may ask?" Coyle asked. "Surely they have the brain capacity to judge talent."
"Funny you should ask that, she comes now." Chris said. The host gestured to someone walking up on stage. The judge was very weird, indeed.
She was a fairly tail woman, with silvery white skin. She had short white hair with some orange and black highlights in a bob cut. She wore a skin tight black leotard that accentuated her curves. She wore orange thigh high boots, and detached black sleeves on her forearms. Normally, she'd look like a knockout, except for one part of her body: her eyes.
Her eyes were large and very buggy looking, like a fly or some kind of insect. Not to mention she had a set of feathery antennae on her head.
"Everyone, this is…." Chris faltered. "Actually, I never got your name."
The woman gave a high pitched, disturbing, chirpy laugh. "Sururururururu! Yes, my darlings, where are my manners?" She spoke in a very snobbish accent. "My name is Sura, and I'm just a tourist in this city just like you. As a fan of the theatre, I hope to see some excellent showtunes from you lot."
Everyone was a little disturbed at this oddball of a woman. It was almost as if she wasn't human, and that was saying something, considering how some of these guys are.
"This woman's giving me the creeps." Meggy mumbled. "I'm afraid she might eat us."
"Shhhh! She might hear you!" Spinel hushed
Sura looks intently at everyone, but her eyes fixate on Edward and Rick. Her buggy eyes narrow on them as she gives a cheeky grin. This weirded Edward out greatly while Rick glared at her.
"Why is she staring at me?" Ed whispered to Tari.
"I don't know." She replied. "But I get where you're coming from. She's like a giant bug."
"Sururururururu! My, so you're the one, huh? The one Kogus mentioned."
"Huh?! The what?!" Edward asked.
"Oh, nothing." Sura quickly answered. "I must be a little scatterbrained. That's the problem with being as beautiful as I. It takes away smarts to compensate. Anyway, I look forward to your shows, so I hope you use your time wisely."
"She's right, because you only got four hours to practice and get everything together." Chris told them. "So get to practicing, because it starts right now."
"Sururururururu!" Sura began to leave and let these guys get to practicing. But as she left, she kept her gaze focused specifically on Edward. "I wish you little dandies good luck.
"I don't know what her deal is," he mumbled, "I just wanna get this over with."
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"Performing a Broadway show is something I can't mess up." Charlie said. "This is a dream come true, and this what I need to feel better."
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"Why the fuck did it have to be Annie?" Max groaned. "One team gets a song involving superheroes, while another gets one about a killer barber? While we're stuck with a song about some little orphan girl."
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"You already know I'm gonna nail this." Deadpool said."
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"That woman seems awfully familiar…." Rick said suspiciously. "And I know for a fact I was sober during all of that."
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With this, the three teams head backstage and split up to practice and make preparations.
"Okay, guys." Charlie told her team. "Giving my experience and love for music, I hope you all would be fine with me taking the helm."
"I see no problem with that." 18 said. "You always loved showtunes, and you're one of the only people who doesn't hate it when we're forced to sing."
"If that's true, then I don't see why not." Harley said.
"Great. Thank you guys. Now, I think we need to address one thing in this song. There's only two people that sing in the song, so we're probably gonna need most of you as backup dancers. But I plan to sing the lines of Mrs. Lovett. So I need either Edward or Kiryu to help sing the lines of Sweeney Todd."
Edward rubbed the back of his head. "I dont know….I'll probably just stick to dancing."
"I have no problem with singing the other half." Kiryu told her. "One of my personal hobbies is karaoke. So I'll take the role of Mr. Todd."
"Perfect." Charlie looked over at the rest of the team. "Then the rest of you will make great backup dancers. Be ready, because I'm going to put you guys through the wringer. This is something I take quite seriously."
(Meanwhile…..)
We now move to see the Hungry Wolves practicing their dancing. Everyone except Deadpool were dressed up as generic ruffians and thugs to look like a villain's henchmen. Our favorite merc, on the other hand, was dressed like the infamous villain, the Green Goblin. The "Henchmen" were dancing in sync until Deadpool cut the music.
"Wah-t's the problem?" Waluigi asked.
Deadpool looks over at Terry and takes a deep breath. "Terry. You know I like you, but it's kick step, kick step, body roll. It's not rocket science."
"Hate to break it to ya, but I'm not much of a dancer. I'm trying my best, but I can't be a pro dancer and a fighter. That's more Duck's thing."
"Understandable." Deadpool said. "Just remember it's kick step, kick step, body roll. But at least you're trying." He looks over at Aqua. "Aqua, out of everyone here, you appear to be the one slacking the most. Tsk Tsk."
"But this is so haaaaaaarrrd." Aqua moaned. The water goddess aid on her back looking exhausted. "This is making my muscles sore."
"Suck it up." Miu told the goddess. "Or maybe your name should be Aqu-itter. God, you're fuckin' useless!"
"Hey! Don't call me useless, you hussy!"
"I've gotta admit, Deadpool," Edgeworth said as he was ignoring the rest of his team arguing. "It's amazing that you're taking this very seriously."
"Of course. Why wouldn't I be?"
…
…
"...Was that supposed to be a joke?" Rick asked.
"You know me so well. Yeah, I'm just yanking your chain. Alright, everyone, let's take it from the top this time!"
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"Okay guys. Show me what you got." Susie told her team.
The Dark Fun Gang each show off their dance moves, but they really didn't have the moves. Iida moves and dances around like a robot, Glass Joe just moves his body back and forth, Isabelle spun round and round like a ballerina, and Sora made a poor attempt at break dancing. Wendy and Carla at least did a little better than the others, but it left a bit to be desired. And Max straight up didn't dance at all because screw that.
"Well crap." Susie muttered. "Guess we got our work cut out for us."
"Geez, these organics dance so pathetically." Starscream mocked. "Maybe you should let me tell them what to do."
"Yeah right, you overgrown tinker toy." Tatsumaki scoffed. "Like you have the talent to lead this bunch. I have a better idea.
The esper used her psychic powers to control everyone's movements. She has all of them dancing in sync to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" to demonstrate.
"Oh wow." Wendy said. "We're dancing like the pros."
"Not bad, not bad." Susie marveled.
Tatsumaki smirked. "That's nothing. Personally, I could twist you all into pretzels if I really wanted to."
"Would it be too much to ask if you could use your powers to help us perform?" Isabelle asked.
"Well, I guess we don't have much of a choice at this point. Because let's face it; this team can't dance."
But Iida realized something was off. "Hey…. has anyone seen Mae?"
They all looked around to see that the college dropout was nowhere to be seen.
"She's probably off being lazy like she always is." Starscream said.
But then they heard the loud boom of a guitar coming from some speakers. And by loud, I mean loud to the point that everyone had to cover their ears, for fear of going deaf. Mae walks out from behind some curtains holding an electric guitar.
"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Max yelled
"So like, do you want a general explanation, or a list of what's wrong with me?" Mae mouthed off. "Because either way, we're gonna be here for thirty effing minutes. I only did what I did because i have a bright idea in this mind of mine that higher education has given up on."
"Well, what's your idea?" Joe asked.
"I could help turn this song into a rock cover. That's gotta blow away that fugly bug woman."
"I like that idea." Wendy said. "They won't be expecting that. She'll really be in for a surprise."
Susie happily rubbed her hands together. "Alright, sounds like we got a game plan going. Mae will provide some killer rock music for us, while Tatsumaki actually helps us dance. Let's get some costumes, and start practicing for real."
"Whoa whoa whoa!" Starscream exclaimed. "Who died and made you in charge?! Just makes you think you can call the shots better than me?!"
"Can we please not do this right now?" She huffed. "Let's focus on winning, or I'll turn you into junkyard scrap!"
If there's one thing many of the veteran players on that team know, it's not to argue with Susie. And they were hoping Starscream would get the picture.
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"I guess in a way, I'm the de facto leader of this ragtag team." Susie said. "I mean, I named the team, and ass kicking equals authority where I come from. Not to mention it is so funny to get a rise out of Starscream. He's no team leader material. Since Geralt isn't here, I might as well have someone to butt heads with."
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"Gggrr. Who does Susie think she is, talking to me like that?!" Starscream seethed. "She thinks she can run a team?! Get real! There can only be one!"
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"As long as it's Tatsumaki making us dance and it's not me actually having to dance, then that's fine with me." Max said.
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A couple hours have passed, and practice has been going smoothly.
Well, except for one team.
"CUT CUT CUT!" Charlie yelled for the tenth time that day. The rest of the team looked tired, and a little bit annoyed at this.
For the past couple of hours, Charlie was working her team to the bone. She wasn't lying when she said she'd put them through the wringer. All this time, she was being very demanding, bossy, and refused for there to be any mistakes. This wasn't normal for her, and her closest friends could tell.
"Sigh, what is it this time, girl?!" Coyle bitterly asked.
"Where do I begin?!" Charlie snapped. "For starters, Doc, your footing was off. Cinder, you're veering a little too much to right, so I'm gonna have to place you in a different spot. Ed, you're looking very distracted."
"I'm sorry." Edward replied. "It's just that that lady has really gotten into my head. It's a little hard to concentrate when you have someone that creepy practically staring into your soul. She honestly looks like one of the creatures you'd see in that book."
"Hey, we're not here to worry about other people!" Charlie retorted. "We're here to perform! Not stick our noses in a book, or have our heads in the clouds! Now, let's get this right! Thirty-eighth time's the charm!"
"Can we take a break, for the love of god?!" Harley asked.
"I second that." 18 said. "Even for me, this is exhausting."
"No! It's as if you lazy little shits aren't even trying!"
The whole team went completely silent at this.
"But Charlie…" Tari piped up. "We really are trying."
"Well, you're not trying hard enough! If he was here, he wouldn't-"
But Charlie stopped herself right there. She got a look at how most of her team was glaring at her. And then she looked down at herself in shame. The realization of what She has done sank in. She then quietly stormed off, very close to tears.
"Wait, Charlie!" Tari cried.
"Let her go." Coyle said bitterly. "She's the boss, after all."
"I'll go talk to her." Meggy said. The former inkling then runs after Charlie.
"I can tell there's more to it." Kiryu said. "She's been going through a lot lately."
"You're saying she's been bottling up her feelings?" Edward asked.
"No doubt about it. If anything, she just needs a little time to think."
"Hate to break it to you, but we're on a time limit." 18 brought up. "So we can't afford to waste time."
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Meggy runs around the empty theater looking for Charlie.
"Charlie?" She called out. "Charlie?! Are you around here?!"
She kept searching, until she found her sitting in one of the empty seats in the back. Charlie just sitting there with her face buried in her hands. Slowly, Meggy walked up to her.
"Charlie?"
"Go away, Meggy. I want to be alone."
But Meggy wasn't gonna give up that easily. She plopped right down in the seat next to her.
"You say you want to be alone, but that's not what you need." Meggy replied. "Please? Would you tell me what's wrong?"
Charlie gives a sigh of defeat, and decides to give her an answer.
"I thought this challenge would help me forget my problems, and I really wanted to focus more on the game. I told myself that I wasn't gonna worry about missing Katakuri. But…."
Charlie's body began to tremble a little bit, and it got worse the more she talked. And the more she talked, the closer she got to crying.
"...but I'm nothing but a disappointment to myself. I can't get it all out of my head, no matter how I try, or what I do. And the worst thing is….I've been taking my worries and frustrations out on you and the rest of our team. I've been so mean to you and the others today. I….I feel as though I'm losing sight of who I really am."
That was it for her. She expressed perfectly how she's been feeling and let it all out. By this point, Charlie had hit her limit, and burst into crying.
Meggy looked away awkwardly. But she looked back at her friend. She understood perfectly what she was going through. And how to help her. She gives Charlie a tap on the shoulder. Charlie stopped crying for a second to turn to her, and saw her holding out...a plate of spaghetti?!
"Huh?!" Charlie was confused. "Spaghetti?!"
"I've been through what you're going through." Meggy told her. "And a friend offered me spaghetti to cheer me up. A while back, I was training with my friends for the upcoming Splatfest. But I got carried away and got so focused on winning and wanting to prove myself as an up and coming star. But I treated my friends like crap in the process. I took my desire to win and succeed out on them."
"Winning the Splatfest wasn't gonna be worth it if I lost my friends in the process. Please know you're not alone. We got your back. So….I hope you understand we're here to help you with anything."
Charlie nods, giving little hints of a smile. She then surprises Meggy by giving her a hug.
"I'm sorry." She told her. "Thanks for listening. I've been so terrible to everyone, and I feel terrible about it. I hope they'll forgive me."
"You don't need to ask that." Tari said.
Charlie turned around to see the rest of the team standing there.
"How long have you guys been standing there?!" Charlie asked in disbelief.
"Long enough." Kiryu answered.
"Guys, I'm really so-"
"It's okay." Edward told her. "You don't need to apologize for anything."
"Well, I for one could use an apology." Cinder mumbled, which got her an elbow jab from 18.
"It's normal to get emotional and caught up in the moment." Kiryu told her. "But don't beat yourself up like this. It's not over for you or for us."
"You're…. right." Charlie said. "But it still gives me no right to yell at you all like that. Nailing this song isn't worth it if I lose my friends along the way."
"Like she said, we got your back." Harley said. "So what do you say we get back to it and bring the house down?"
Charlie gets up and finally wipes the tears away. "You're right. Let's get back to it. BUT…..we're gonna do things differently from before."
She then looked over to Meggy. "Thanks, Meggy."
"Anytime."
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"Whether they forgive me or not, I still feel bad about how I acted." Charlie said. "But I'm not gonna worry about that now. We're gonna blow them away as a team this time."
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"Maybe if the whole crime fighting thing doesn't work out, I figure maybe I could make a good therapist." Meggy said.
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Time passes, and by this point, four hours have already passed. All three teams practiced long and hard, and felt confident in themselves.
Out from the front of the stage sat Chris and Sura in the front row, ready to see their performances.
"Alright, everyone! Let's see how you guys handle being stars of the show!" Chris announced. "The first ones up are the Hungry Wolves! Performing their take on "A Freak Like Me Needs Company!""
"Sururururururu!" Sura laughed. "I am very much curious to see what these plebs can do."
Suddenly, all the lights go off, except for onstage. Green smoke fills the stage as green spotlights flicker around.
"Alright, party people!" Spinel announced. "Are you ready to get your freak on?!"
Now, the team steps out onstage. With Deadpool dressed up as the Green Goblin like before, with the rest of them dressed up like stereotypical thugs and criminals. Deadpool struts around as he begins to sing, with the "henchmen" dancing in sync.
"A Freak Like Me Needs Company" from Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark
(Quick note: the lyrics in parentheses are the backup dancers singing. Everything else is pure Deadpool)
If you're looking for a night out on the town
You just found me
(A freak like me needs company)
I'm a sixty five million dollar circus tragedy
(A freak like me needs company)
I'm not rolling, baby
Rolling in the green but I'm you need
(A freak)
A freak
I'm the new Coney Island
And all the rides are open and free on mee
(A freak like me needs company)
All the weirdos in the world are here right now
In New York city
All the braves and boys and girls are dressed to kill
Without pity
All the weirdos from out of town
And all the freaks always around
All the weirdos in the world are
Here in New York city
Here in New York city
I got a crew of party animal mutants by my side
(A freak like me needs company)
Demon hairdo, evil dresses, who just won't be denied
(A freak like me needs company)
The crossroads of the world does need a little tweak
From a freak
I said goodbye to my straight life 'cause I, I'm a freak
(A freak like me needs company)
All the weirdos in the world are here right now
In New York city
All the braves and boys and girls
Show no pity
All the weirdos from out of town
And all the freaks always around
All the weirdos in the world are
Here in New York city
Here in New York city
Oh yeah
That's the boys
And the ladies sing
La la la...
The song finishes as the fake city background behind them "explodes"
The team takes a bow as Chris applauds their show.
"Now that is a way to start us off!" Chris exclaimed. "Judge, what's your take on it?"
"Hmm….." Sura's antennae twitch as she's thinking this over. "That was quite the spectacle. You all did an amazing job. But it's still far too early for me to make a final choice. Still, that was quite the start, and very creative. Sururururururu!"
The Wolves head backstage, feeling very accomplished.
"We really "rocked on" as people tend to say, right?" Reg asked.
"You bet." Deadpool answered. "It's such a shame they didn't ask for an encore."
"You do realize there was like only two people in the fuckin' audience." Miu pointed out.
"Regardless, this is the first step to Waluigi's road to stardom!" Waluigi happily exclaimed. "Waluigi can see it now! Fame! Fortune! Respect! Fans! Maybe even a spot in Smash Bros!"
"You okay, Rick?" Terry asked. "All this time, you've looked like something is bothering you."
"No, nothing is bothering me." Rick snapped. "It's just that I feel like I've seen that woman before, and I've been trying to figure out where."
"I'm pretty sure it'd be easy to, considering how...unique she looks." Edgeworth.
"On that note, it's time for the Amazing Aces to perform "A Little Priest!"" Chris said.
The curtains rise, and the setting is made to look like a grim, Victorian era London to represent Fleet Street. Charlie and Kiryu step out, wearing fancy and elegant clothing they wore in that time period, but with a gothic touch. Charlie looks over and gives Kiryu a nod, as the yakuza nods back. The rest of the team stand behind them ready to dance, dressed in more lower class outfits.
Sura focuses a little more intensely at this group, especially at Edward. The alchemist gulped nervously, but remembered to focus on what they practiced. It's Showtime.
"A Little Priest" from Sweeney Todd
MRS. LOVETT (Charlie):
Seems a downright shame…
TODD (Kiryu): Shame?
LOVETT (Charlie):
Seems an awful waste...
Such a nice, plump frame
Wot's 'is name has...
Had...
Has!
Nor it can't be traced...
Bus'ness needs a lift,
Debts to be erased...
Think of it as thrift,
As a gift,
If you get my drift!
No?
Seems an awful waste...
I mean, with the price of meat
What it is,
When you get it,
If you get it…
TODD (Kiryu): HAH!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Good, you got it!
Take, for instance, Mrs. Mooney and her pie shop!
Bus'ness never better using only pussycats and toast!
And a pussy's good for maybe six or seven at the most!
And I'm sure they can't compare as far as taste!
TODD (Kiryu):
Mrs. Lovett, what a charming notion
LOVETT (Charlie):
Well, it does seem a waste…
TODD (Kiryu):
Eminently practical
And yet appropriate as always!
LOVETT (Charlie):
It's an idea…
TODD (Kiryu):
Mrs. Lovett, how I've lived
Without you all these years, I'll never know!
How delectable!
Also undetectable!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Think about it!
Lots of other gentlemen'll
Soon be comin' for a shave,
Won't they?
Think of
All them
Pies!
TODD (Kiryu):
How choice!
How
Rare!
TODD (Kiryu):
For what's the sound of the world out there?
LOVETT (Charlie):
What, Mr. Todd?
What, Mr. Todd?
What is that sound?
TODD (Kiryu):
Those crunching noises pervading the air!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Yes, Mr. Todd!
Yes, Mr. Todd!
Yes, all around!
TODD (Kiryu):
It's man devouring man, my dear!
BOTH:
And who are we to deny it in here?
TODD (Kiryu): These are desperate times,
Mrs. Lovett, and desperate measures are called for!
LOVETT (Charlie): Here we are, now! Hot out of the oven!
TODD (Kiryu): What is that?
LOVETT (Charlie):
It's priest. Have a little priest.
TODD (Kiryu):
Is it really good?
LOVETT (Charlie):
Sir, it's too good, at least!
Then again, they don't commit sins of the flesh,
So it's pretty fresh.
TODD (Kiryu):
Awful lot of fat.
LOVETT (Charlie):
Only where it sat.
TODD (Kiryu):
Haven't you got poet, or something like that?
LOVETT (Charlie):
No, y'see, the trouble with poet is
'Ow do you know it's deceased?
Try the priest!
TODD (Kiryu): Heavenly!
Not as hearty as bishop, perhaps,
But then again, not as bland as curate, either!
LOVETT (Charlie):
And good for business, too - always leaves you wantin' more!
Trouble is, we only get it on Sundays!
Lawyer's rather nice.
TODD (Kiryu):
If it's for a price.
LOVETT (Charlie):
Order something else, though, to follow,
Since no one should swallow it twice!
TODD (Kiryu):
Anything that's lean.
LOVETT (Charlie)
Well, then, if you're British and loyal,
You might enjoy Royal Marine!
Anyway, it's clean.
Though of course, it tastes of wherever it's been!
TODD (Kiryu):
Is that squire,
On the fire?
LOVETT (Charlie)
Mercy no, sir, look closer,
You'll notice it's grocer!
TODD (Kiryu):
Looks thicker,
More like vicar!
LOVETT (Charlie)
No, it has to be grocer -
It's green!
TODD (Kiryu):
The history of the world, my love -
LOVETT (Charlie):
Save a lot of graves,
Do a lot of relatives favors!
TODD (Kiryu):
Is those below serving those up above!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Ev'rybody shaves,
So there should be plenty of flavors!
TODD (Kiryu):
How gratifying for once to know
BOTH:
That those above will serve those down below!
LOVETT (Charlie): Now let's see, here... We've got tinker.
TODD (Kiryu): Something... pinker.
LOVETT (Charlie):Tailor?
TODD (Kiryu): Paler.
LOVETT (Charlie): Butler?
TODD (Kiryu): Subtler.
LOVETT (Charlie): Potter?
TODD (Kiryu): Hotter.
LOVETT (Charlie): Locksmith?
Lovely bit of clerk.
TODD (Kiryu):
Maybe for a lark.
LOVETT (Charlie):
Then again there's sweep
If you want it cheap
And you like it dark!
Try the financier,
Peak of his career!
TODD (Kiryu):
That looks pretty rank.
LOVETT (Charlie):
Well, he drank,
It's a bank
Cashier.
Never really sold.
Maybe it was old.
TODD (Kiryu):
Have you any Beadle?
LOVETT (Charlie):
Next week, so I'm told!
Beadle isn't bad till you smell it and
Notice 'ow well it's been greased...
Stick to priest!
Now then, this might be a little bit stringy,
But then of course it's... fiddle player!
TODD (Kiryu): No, this isn't fiddle player - it's piccolo player!
LOVETT (Charlie): 'Ow can you tell?
TODD (Kiryu): It's piping hot!
LOVETT (Charlie): Then blow on it first!
TODD (Kiryu):
The history of the world, my sweet -
LOVETT (Charlie):
Oh, Mr. Todd,
Ooh, Mr. Todd,
What does it tell?
TODD (Kiryu):
Is who gets eaten, and who gets to eat!
LOVETT (Charlie):
And, Mr. Todd,
Too, Mr. Todd,
Who gets to sell!
TODD (Kiryu):
But fortunately, it's also clear
BOTH:
But ev'rybody goes down well with beer!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Since marine doesn't appeal to you, 'ow about... rear admiral?
TODD (Kiryu): Too salty. I prefer general.
LOVETT (Charlie): With, or without his privates? "With" is extra.
TODD (Kiryu): What is that?
LOVETT (Charlie):
It's fop.
Finest in the shop.
And we have some shepherd's pie peppered
With actual shepherd on top!
And I've just begun -
Here's the politician, so oily
It's served with a doily,
Have one!
TODD:
Put it on a bun.
Well, you never know if it's going to run!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Try the friar,
Fried, it's drier!
TODD:
No, the clergy is really
Too coarse and too mealy!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Then actor,
That's compacter!
TODD (Kiryu):
Yes, and always arrives overdone!
I'll come again when you have JUDGE on the menu!
LOVETT (Charlie): Wait! True, we don't have judge yet,
But we've got something you might fancy even better.
TODD (Kiryu): What's that?
LOVETT (Charlie): Executioner!
TODD (Kiryu):
Have charity towards the world, my pet!
LOVETT (Charlie):
Yes, yes, I know, my love!
TODD (Kiryu):
We'll take the customers that we can get!
LOVETT (Charlie):
High-born and low, my love!
TODD (Kiryu):
We'll not discriminate great from small!
No, we'll serve anyone,
Meaning anyone,
BOTH:
And to anyone
At all!
Everything was quiet as the Aces finished up the song. Chris cleared his throat.
"That was quite the gripping performance. Very dark, and twisted, especially if you've already seen the movie. Judge, what do you think?"
The Aces stood there looking hopeful as Sura pondered her opinion. But it didn't take that long.
"I hated it."
"WHAT?!" The Aces were filled with disbelief.
"That was a stellar performance!" Edward yelled. "What gives?!"
"Sorry, but that was far too long for my taste, boy. Not to mention it was far too dark and grim for one as pristine as I."
"That's funny, because I remember we weren't being judged by the song." 18 pointed out.
"Your skills were very lackluster as well." Sura replied a little too quickly. "Sorry, but there's no way you're beating that first team."
"This is bullshit." Kiryu said calmly. "How about a redo?"
"Sorry, there's no encores." Chris said. "The judge's decision is final."
The Aces glumly head backstage as the Dark Fun Gang get set up.
"Where did we go wrong?" Charlie wondered. "Where did I go wrong?"
Tari puts her arm around Charlie. "It's not you. It must be something with her. We really tried our best, and no one can take that from us."
"She must be blind." Edward snapped. "Especially with those buggy eyes. It's as if she's got something against us."
"I still feel like it's my fault somehow." Charlie mumbled.
"If I ever see her again,I'm gonna squash that bitch like bug." Harley said as she tightly gripped her back.
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"She's got no one to blame but that Sura character." Edward said. "She obviously didn't see how hard Charlie worked at this. Matter of fact, she was staring at me the whole time. Seriously, what's up with her?"
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"And now, here's the final show of the night." Chris said. "The Dark Fun Gang with their take on "It's the Hard Knock Life.""
The curtains open as the set looks to be a fairly big and plain house. The whole team were dressed in raggedy clothes and holding items used for cleaning. Behind them stood Mae, electric guitar at the ready.
The cat strums the first cord, and busts out an awesome guitar solo as the song starts up. Tatsumaki uses her powers to perfectly make them all dance in sync in the most flashy and stylish way.
"It's the Hard Knock Life" from Annie
(But with a rock and roll twist)
It's a hard-knock life for us
It's a hard-knock life for us
'Stead of treated
We get tricked
'Stead of kisses
We get kicked
It's the hard-knock life
Don't if feel like the wind is always howl'n?
Don't it seem like there's never any light!
Once a day, don't you wanna throw the towel in?
It's easier than puttin' up a fight
No one's there when your dreams at night get creepy
No one cares if you grow or if you shrink
Empty belly life
Rotten smelly life
Full of sorrow life
No tomorrow life
Santa Claus we never see
Santa Claus, what's that?
Who's he?
No one cares for you a smidge
When you're a foster kid
It's the hard-knock life
Make my bathroom shine
But don't touch my medicine cabinet
It's a hard-knock life for us
It's a hard-knock life for us
'Stead of treated
We get tricked
'Stead of kisses
We get kicked
It's the hard-knock life for us
It's the hard-knock life for us
No one cares for you a smidge
When you're a foster kid
It's the hard-knock life
It's the hard-knock life
The song finishes with fireworks exploding out from the speakers, and Mae puts the finishing touch on it by smashing the guitar against the ground.
"Now that is a way to finish out the challenge." Chris said. "Really dig the rock and roll vibe. Judge, what did you-"
"BRAVO! BRAVO!" Sura interrupted. "That was truly a spectacle for the eyes! This team is definitely the clear winner! The passion! The rock! The roll! And the nostalgia for a show such as this! I could die now and have no regrets!"
"Well, there you have it. The winners of today's challenge are the Dark Fun Gang!"
The Dark Fun Gang cheer as they hoist Mae and Tatsumaki up on their shoulders.
"Wow…." Mae said. "This is effing sweet!"
"Would you all put me down?!" Tatsumaki snapped. "I know I did well!"
As the Dark Fun Gang walk past the other two teams, those teams stood there baffled.
"Aw man." Aqua groaned. "I really wanted that five star dinner."
"You gotta give it to them, it was a good show." 18 said. "Still sucks we lost, though."
"That bug just doesn't even know talent!" Waluigi complained.
"Now, as for the team that totally tanked…." Chris brought up, "It's obvious our judge really didn't like the Aces' performance, so it's off to elimination for you guys again."
The Aces just sigh while the Wolves feel some bit of relief.
"I still can't help but feel it's my fault." Charlie said.
"We've already said we're over it." Edward told her.
"Even still, I feel like I need to do something to make it up to you guys."
"You don't have to do that." Tari said. "You did great helping us perform to the best of our abilities. If anything, we owe you."
"Charlie then took a deep breath. "If that's the case…..then can I ask you all for a favor?"
This got her team raising eyebrows as she whispered her favor.
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(Later….)
The Aces all sat together in the elimination room, with everyone looking expressionless.
"I just tallied the votes." Chris said. "And I must say this is quite surprising, so I'm gonna cut right to the point. By a unanimous vote, the one taking the Drop of Shame home tonight is Charlie. Hope you have a safe trip, Ms. Magne."
Charlie just shrugged it off. "It's fine. I expected as much. I messed up, and whether my team thinks that or not, I deserve to go home."
"You do realize you didn't have to make us do that." Meggy said. "We wouldn't have voted for you."
"What difference does it make?" Coyle said. "I'm perfectly fine with it."
"Tell Katakuri we said "Hey."" Edward told her.
Charlie nodded. "I will. And….thanks, guys. Good luck to all you."
"Just jump off already." Cinder calmly, yet angrily said.
"Okay, I'm going, I'm going."
Once she had the parachute on, Charlie jumped off the plane, and out of sight.
"I still don't know if she made the best choice," Kiryu said, "But it was her choice. And it made her happy. To see that, from a demon, of all things, is truly it's own spectacle."
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"I'm sure she'll she fine." Tari said. "And it was nice of Meggy to help her. Regardless, Charlie probably put on her best show ever."
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"Was that girl really that stupid?" Coyle asked herself. The genius crackles wildly. "She just gave up a shot at a million dollars for nothing. Someone of my intelligence would never think to do that. That is just priceless. But I need to put my brain to better uses. I wanna observe this DIO fellow a little more. My intuition is telling me it's what I must do. Who knows what this experiment will yield? The thought gets me all giddy."
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(Meanwhile, Somewhere else in the world….)
We see a masdive, red airship in the shape of a dragon flying through the sky, with an ominous aura surrounding it.
Inside, we see a man sitting on a stone throne. And this man was behemoth of a man, sitting at twenty-five feet tall. The room was dark, so it was hard to see him, but his red, bloodshot eyes could be seen. The man was gulping down a huge gourd of sake, with many empty gourds at his side.
At his side stood two people. One of them was a big, imposing brute with a black leather jacket with spikes on the shoulders. He also wore tattered blue jeans and brown boots. His hair is short and black, with part of it covering his eye in an emo fashion. The second man has short and wavy blonde hair, and an armored face mask that covers his mouth. He wears slim yet strong looking golden battle armor with dragon heads on the shoulders. At his waist was a katana.
"GET ME *HIC* MORE TO DRINK!" The huge man on the throne ordered. He through the gourd down and it shattered into pieces.
"As you wish, master." The man in the golden armor said.
As he left to fetch more booze, someone else stepped through the door. It was Sura!
"Master Gjira, I'm back!" Sura said.
"Sura….." The man called "Gjira" said slowly. "How did it go? Did you do as I *hic* instructed?"
"Oh yes, master!" Sura replied with glee. "The boy with the book, you mean. From what I gathered, his name is Edward Elric. And what's more, there appeared to be an elderly man who looked very much like someone you've mentioned before. Does this mean I'm your favorite, now?"
At the mention of this, Gjira stood up, shaking the ship in the process. He looked mad, abd his subordinates could see reddish black lightning crackling around him.
"Seems he's an angry drunk this time." The brute in the leather jacket mumbled.
"YOU…" Gjira growled to himself. "I see now. I won't let that boy get in the way of my dream! The more he delves deeper into that research, the more likely he is to stand in my WAY. Edward Elric. And you also have a part of this…."
His bloodshot eyes go wide as he recalled the other man mentioned.
"...RICK SANCHEZ!"
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Oof. Bet ya didn't expect that. This chapter has been weighing on me the past couple of weeks. Writers block, work, and other things have kept me busy and stressed, so this feels good to get this out of the way. I also hope you liked the songs used today
If I forgot to, let me state I don't own the songs used today. They all belong to their respective owners. Please give the actual songs a listen.
Sorry to all the Charlie fans. She may have done well last season, but this just wasn't her time. Besides, she's gonna be busy hosting the new aftermath show along with Katakuri. That's why I had them eliminated early, so I hope you're excited to see that. The aftermaths will take place every five or six eliminations or so. I'm sure they'll do a good job. And it'll be nice to see some old faces. The aftermath show will be a great.
To be honest, it's nice to see people loving this ship. I know in her home series Charlie has a girlfriend, but she is confirmed to be bisexual, so it wouldn't be too out of the ordinary, i guess. I originally didn't plan them as a couple. They had more of a therapist/patient type interaction going on, but this idea grew on me. Even now, they have a healthy and well rounded relationship.
Now, it seems DIO has probably bit off more thab he can chew by promising two different people he'd help them win in an illegal alliance. Will one find out about the other? And now Coyle is curious to observe this vampire. Ruh roh!
Seems as though Susie has a new rival to butt heads with, and a role model in the form of Harley. Waluigi roped himself into Aqua's "relationship" with Terry, and Mae rocked out.
But who is Sura, and Gjira. Well, Gjira is a creation of mine who appeared in a recent chapter of my good friend and fellow author 1602jaw's Total Drama Cruise. What's Gjira's dream, and how does he know Rick? And is Edward in danger? It will all make sense soon.
Here's a preview for next time. It's our first interdimensional challenge, which will take place at the school Iida goes to, UA High. We're gonna see if these guys can make it through the hero course. But it's gonna be a lot tougher than when Iida and his friends took it. Who will pass, and who will flunk out?
Well, I'm pretty sure that's everything. As always, read and review. Until next time, happy holidays, and if I don't post a new chapter before the end of the year, then see you in 2021. Let's hope itllbe better than this year.
This is MemeKing, signing off.