DISCLAIMER:
Greeting, episode 36 is now released. Who will win the omnirace? And which team will be sending someone home tonight? Find out now here on Total Drama Tyranny of the Masses.
And remember, if you enjoy the story so far mark it as a favorite. Or if you feel fancy leave a review. Even a small sentence can help me to improve this or other stories. Now before the story let me answer the past chapter reviews.
EbolaGaveMeHIV: Thanks for the review. Yes the twins storyline is one of my favorites so far. And if Topher is or isn't eliminated on this one, we will have to wait to find out.
ki SAm JIn DAn: I'm happy you enjoy it. I hope you also enjoy the last part of the episode.
beanoamy: As you say, some underhanded plays are all around, but not everything is lost for the Foxes. But whichever wins the elimination will be a hard one.
heyimrat: Thanks for your kind words. I'm happy you enjoy the story so much.
And as always, a COLOSSAL shoutout and THANKS to Geofics, who helps me proofread the episodes. I hope you can keep helping me this 2021. Thanks a lot.
Total Drama belongs to Fresh TV, its creators, and associates companies. I don't own anything from the properties used in this fic.
Racing to the end, now in 3D Part 3
For the 11th challenge the teams had to do the ultimate relay race in 3D, the Omnirace. Running, climbing, swimming and crawling. Both teams are on the fourth leg of seven, the maze of darkness. The ferrets are winning with a small advantage against the foxes.
But there are still 3 more legs to go. The slippery ice plains. The stone pillars in which they have to jump from one pillar to another over a 1000 feet pit. And the last one, running upside down using super Velcro(tm) boots. Which team will cross the finish line first? And who will cross the line back home? Find out here in Total Drama Tyranny of the masses.
At the mazes' exit, Dramaman and Brick were waiting for Lilly and Heather to come out. Both men were chatting amicably while waiting.
"-and then Alejandro bent the spoon with his 'mind'," Brick laughed, drying a tear from his eye. "I think I haven't laughed so hard since leaving the ferrets."
"You know it was a trick, right? There is nothing like psychic powers," said the wrestler in a serious tone. "Anyway, I'm glad you're having fun in the foxes."
"Affirmative. Despite the initial uncertainty about my deployment on the team I have to say that it has been a positive experience," Brick smiled at his friend. "That doesn't mean I don't miss you, the twins, Topher, and the rest of our comrades in arms."
Dramaman nodded. "I'm glad you're doing fine. I was afraid they would treat you as an outcast. It has to be hard being the new one on the team."
"Hehehe, Thanks for worrying about me," replied Brick, making a small salute, "but there is some kind of fate between changing teams and me, so I'm used to it. Also, I already went further in the competition than the previous time. I can go home now and I'll be satisfied."
"Isn't it bad luck to say something like that?" asked Dramaman, folding his arms.
The cadet just shrugged. "I don't believe in bad luck. Just do your best, and good luck will be on your side."
The wrestler smiled, even if Brick couldn't see it. The cadet was without a doubt the kind of guy you want to keep as a friend after the competition.
Meanwhile inside the mazes, Heather and Lilly were trying to find their way in the darkness.
This is the last time I play the good girl and let the others choose first. This place isn't only dark, it's hot as hell! I'm sweating, and my knees hurt. Next time I'll take one of the running challenges, and someone else can crawl like a worm. Thought Heather while looking for the exit.
The Queen Bee was touching the passage's walls and making sure she was aware when she changed directions. The exit was just at the front and down, so she just needed to focus and not lose her orientation, and she would be ok.
But there was no problem. Heather was obsessive, smart, and cunning. So even with the ups, downs, and turns, she always knew the general direction she needed to go. And anyway, she was crawling faster than that treehugger, so it will be easier for her to come out first and let her team get first place.
But she didn't expect Lilly's secret advantage.
The redhead crawled on her maze. She should be scared and advancing slowly. After all she wasn't good at physical activities. Lilly was weak, slow, and a coward. Usually a challenge like this would be impossible for her.
But this time someone believed in her, and she wanted to prove herself in front of someone else. Amy was right, she can do it, and she'll show Cody she was like them, a contestant that could go further into the competition. And she will do it by any means necessary.
And the means necessary was the small device on her hand. There the voice of Max talked again.
"You're doing it perfectly, just turn left and you're outside. Remember to hide the contraption before going out!" the voice was lower than usual.
"Uh-huh. Thanks again for your help. I'll keep doing my best," whispered Lilly, crawling as fast as she could. It wasn't that fast, but it was her best.
"OF COURSE YOU WILL! Remember you have to win. Over and out," the transmission ended and as he said, Lilly found the light of the day at last.
She carefully concealed the device in her clothes. Then she crawled out, the sunlight hurt her eyes, but she was happy to see Dramaman and Brick waiting.
The wrestler raised his hand as Lilly stood up clumsily and ran toward him, shouting (in a really low voice) as she gave him a high five. "Heee-ya. Please go Dramaman."
He nodded and then began to run across the ice. But to Dramaman's surprise most of the ice was thin and broke easily, not being slippery at all. This wasn't what he was expecting.
While his teammate ran Lilly stood there huffing and puffing, trying to get her second breath before returning to the rest of the team.
Brick looked at her lowering his eyebrows concerned, "Lilly, Are you ok? You seem exhausted."
The treehugger gulped hard before replying, "Yes, better than ever, *puff*" she then flexed her arm weakly.
The cadet nodded. Lilly was smiling, so even if she looked tired, she probably was ok. He never saw her trying so hard while on Lilly's team and was glad she was doing her best.
Then he watched nervously at the exit of his own maze, waiting for Heather. He began to stretch again, jogged a little, and jumped on the spot, not only to warm up but to distract himself from the stress of the competition. Especially after his opponent took off with such an advantage.
Then after what seemed like an eternity, Heather came out. She was agile and fast as a cat and dashed toward Brick giving him a high five.
"Now go, take as much advantage as you can," said Heather smiling confidently. But her expression turned into one of shock when she saw Lilly. "I-Impossible! How did you come out before me?"
"Luck?" replied the redhead twiddling with her fingers.
The Queen Bee wasn't sure if she was asking or answering and didn't care either. Brick was already trying to catch up with Dramaman running across the half-melted ice plains at top speed.
Confessional - Lilly
The treehugger was trying to calm down before talking, "I-I did it. I can't believe it, but I did it. I-I'm not too proud, but I hope Amy and Cody are watching me. I'll do my best to keep winning, and I promise to compensate my rivals if I have to use any means necessary."
"CHEF! What is this? The ice leg was supposed to be an ice-covered plain slippery all around, and is just some patches of ice and puddles of water," shouted Chris at his co-host on the phone.
The interns tried to ignore the conversation, even if Chris' voice was heard clearly from Chef's phone. The big man left Chris alone a little after Heather began the fourth leg and went back to the computer's room because he knew this would happen.
"SO?" replied the Chef, also shouting. "You said that we can't use the damn supercomputer, so we had to use the manual freezing system, and guess what? Ice melts after a time in the sun, especially in fucking SUMMER!"
Chris huffed, "It's D.A.M. no damn, and don't try to patronize me, Chef. We didn't use D.A.M. because it was too expensive, but that didn't mean you have to do a shabby job with the ice leg. You could use the freezing system every now and then to keep the ice on the plain."
"Don't try to put that on me, Chris. You were the one that said we shouldn't go over the budget. So if you don't have anything new to add, I'll hang up. We still have to oversee the last two legs," replied Chef, trying to remain calm, but the vein on his temple was pulsing.
"NO CHEF-" Chris's voice was cut off mid-sentence. Chef just ended the call tired of always being the scapegoat of everyone. They didn't pay him enough for this.
Logan, the young intern, looked at him. "Chef, sir-"
"If it isn't about the challenge ZIP IT. I'm too tired for one of your reports about something weird you see in the system," said Chef interrupting the intern report his eyes bulging.
The young inter gulped and didn't dare to say anything else, going back to his seat.
Meanwhile at the edge of the mountain Alejandro and Sky were waiting. Next to them was a chasm full of rock pillars that made a rudimentary path to the other side of the mountain. There Courtney and Mike were waiting.
Sky was stretching while Alejandro looked at her, smiling at the small gymnast.
"Buena Suerte[1] I hope you don't beat me too easily," said Alejandro with a charming smile.
The Cree girl narrowed her eyes at him. "So far you have been doing a great job at the challenges. So I don't think I can easily beat you. And also I don't like fake demonstrations of humility." She then folded her arms. Sky felt that the Spaniard was fooling with her and she hated to be underestimated.
Alejandro was shocked that it didn't work as he intended, but he was a man of resources. "I'm sorry I didn't intend to offend you. I really think that your skills are better suited than mine for this challenge. But I still will do my best to surpass you,"
She wasn't sure if she should believe him. Was he trying to play mind games or was he honest? Sky hated these mind games because she always overthought and couldn't tell apart someone trying to manipulate her from a talkative opponent.
But luckily for her she didn't have to decide. Dramaman was coming closer across the half-melted ice sheet. The Cree face beamed while Alejandro looked at him scowling.
"Sorry, you were right. It seems I'll beat you easily," bragged Sky not hiding her enthusiasm.
But as the masked man was running closer he slipped in a puddle, fell on the ground and slid in Sky's direction.
The Cree girl tried to grab him but he passed next to her giving her a high five before falling from the mountain's edge.
"DRAMAMAN!" shouted Sky who went behind him and looked down into the pit.
Some meters below, the masked man held at the mountain's wall, his gloves' fingers ripped by friction against the rock.
"I'm ok, you just go ahead," shouted Dramaman in his deep voice while climbing slowly.
"Are you crazy? I can't leave you there!" replied Sky leaning in the ground and stretching her hand.
The wrestler kept climbing slowly. He was sweating a lot thanks to both the running and the fear of falling from the mountain. "Stop wasting time! Go ahead I'll be fine."
What should she do? Yes, leaving him down there was the smart thing to do. After all she came to win, right? He wasn't even in danger.
But she already knew how bitter it was just focusing on winning and Dramaman had supported her on many occasions. So the decision was easy.
"Stop talking and hold my hand. The faster we help you the faster I can start running again," said Sky stretching her arm as far as she could.
There was no use in discussing with her. Dramaman also stretched his arm as far as he could, grasping the Cree girl's hand. Then she began to help him to climb to the top.
Suddenly another pair of arms grasped the wrestler and helped pulling him to the summit.
"Thanks, but Why?" asked Sky, looking with wide eyes at the Spaniard.
Alejandro just winked. "Do I need a reason to help someone that is in trouble?"
That was unexpected. Alejandro had the fame of a ruthless opponent but just like that he helped them. Both the gymnast and the masked man were grateful.
Then, in a quick movement Sky began to run and jumped to a stone pillar, and then to the next, so quickly and graciously that she resembled a gazelle.
"Thanks for your help, Alejandro. Someday I hope to repay your kindness," said Dramaman taking Alejandro out of his awe after seeing Sky running the leg.
He quickly regained his composure. "No problem my friend, even if we're opponents we're humans first. And we need to help each other."
The wrestler was surprised. He never thought that Alejandro would be like this. Maybe he changed after the past seasons.
The Spaniard then looked at the supposed ice plain. He was wondering where Brick was. How was it possible the ferrets got so much advantage?
As if on queue Brick was coming, half of his pants and tank top were wet but he ran much faster than Dramaman. In a moment the cadet was next to Alejandro.
"Sorry, I slipped along the way," said Brick giving a high five to the Spaniard. "I hope you can accomplish the mission."
Alejandro made a charming smile, "leave it to me." And with those words he began to jump across the stone platforms. He was fast but not as fast as the gymnast
Confessional - Dramaman
The wrestler was leaning against the wall sighing. "Somehow I always fail at the important moments and this time Sky had to help me. Even after all my training, I still have a long way to go."
The stone columns were the most dangerous leg of the entire race. Raised over a chasm some hundred feet over the ground, the competitors had to jump from one column to the next as fast as they could. One misstep meant to lose the challenge and probably be saved by a security net. Or at least both competitors hoped that they would be saved.
Sky was ahead and she was jumping from one column to the next with such speed that seemed to be natural for her. She was focused entirely on each jump as if it was life or death and her jumps and twirls were entrancing. But even she began to feel tired after jumping non-stop so many times.
On the other hand her rival calculated each jump. Alejandro's progress was more slowly but he was confident he wouldn't fail any leap. He looked at the Cree girl running in front of him. It was obvious she was a menace, so he needed to make the best time while hoping she messed up one of her jumps. Something that didn't seem plausible at least right now.
Meanwhile on the other side of the chasm, Mike and Courtney were waiting for their teammates. At their side was a wall covered in loops for the super Velcro(tm) boots to hook. And at the end of the wall the ceiling was covered in the same material. The last leg was climbing the wall and running all the distance to the goal upside down.
Mike was surprised. Courtney was talking with him even if they were opponents. He wasn't sure they would still be friends after he switched teams but she was cordial. The Latin girl asked him about his time in the ferrets and they talked a lot about past challenges.
There was only one subject the former multiple Mike was scared to touch. But it was inevitable she would ask about it.
"So, did you talk with Zoey after the last challenge?" Courtney knew the answer but was interested in Mike's reaction.
The guy with spiky hair rubbed his arm. "No, I don't. I wanted to talk with her yesterday, but I couldn't find her. Amy and Lilly helped me to look for her but in the end…"
He didn't end the explanation. Courtney looked at him with a slight frown.
"Ok, maybe I should have tried harder to find her but I'm afraid. Do you know if she is mad at me?" asked Mike looking sadly at the former C.I.T.
She shrugged. "She needs to talk with you, but if you ask me she seems more hurt than angry."
"I really did it this time, didn't I?" replied Mike looking distressed at the ground.
"Just be honest with her. I'm sure she'll understand," said Courtney, but she wasn't good at empathizing with others, much less in romantic problems. "And if you need help, I can back you up."
The Latin girl wasn't sure where that came from. Why was she buying other people's problems? And in the middle of the show? But it was too late to take her words back.
Mike smiled and took a moment to find the exact words to reply to her offer. "Thanks. You know, I'm glad we have the chance to compete together again."
But before Courtney could understand the meaning behind those words someone jumped from the pillars and landed next to them. It was Sky. The Cree girl had a pained expression but forced herself to run and gave a high five to Mike.
"Now go, while we have the advantage," said Sky, heavy breathing.
Mike looked at her, lowering his eyebrows, "Are you ok?"
"Of course I'm ok. Now GO!" shouted the gymnast, ignoring the pain in her lower back.
The thin guy nodded, adjusted his boots one more time and began to walk on the wall toward the bridge. He had to use all his strength to not hit the ground with his head. At least his feet were firmly attached to the loops on the wall.
"See you later Courtney," said Mike waving while forcing a smile. Walking on those boots was hard.
"Start running Mike, start running," replied Courtney forcing a smile, but her blood was boiling. Where was that stupid Al?
Then the Latin girl noticed that the Cree girl was looking at her. She and Sky didn't have any relationship either good or bad. They only talked a few times when she was with Zoey or Sammy. Courtney knew the foxes lost 2 challenges thanks to Sky, but looking at the Cree girl closer she didn't seem so dangerous. And also, she was really small.
At the same time Sky was analyzing her opponent. Courtney beat her in the eating contest, in building the bridge and the talent show. If both reached the merge she would have to beat her. But that just made the competition more exciting.
The Cree girl turned without saying a word leaving Courtney wondering what she was thinking.
But then Alejandro arrived at. The Spaniard was agile and even if jumping seemed easy for him, it required all his concentration and focus to not fail the jumps while keeping a good speed.
Finally he leaped from the last column and fell a few meters away from Courtney, rolling around to not hurt himself after landing.
"Tu turno, Confió en tí[1]" said Alejandro with a charming smile on his face.
Why did you take SO long? Mike departed some time ago. Are you taking this race seriously? thought Courtney. That was what she would usually respond, but instead she only smiled and said, "Thanks, I'm going."
She adjusted her boots and just like Mike began to run across the loop covered wall using her Super Velcro(tm) boots. She needed to hurry if she intended to beat him.
Confessional - Alejandro
"We're in trouble. After all Courtney is at a clear disadvantage against Mike. But she isn't a good choice for elimination. She's still useful. So if we lose I need to think of a good alternative. And I just know the right candidate," said Alejandro smiling impishly at the camera.
The last leg started. It was a strange race across the ceiling using the Super Velcro(tm) boots Chris provided them. Both contenders had to go upside down across a long stone bridge until the goal. In the finish line were a pair of comfy mattresses waiting for them to fall on.
But nobody told them it would be so exhausting. To advance they had to pull their back leg with enough strength to free the hooks from the loops and quickly made a step to advance across the surface.
But the gravity made this not only tiring but dangerous. If they didn't make the step quickly enough, their leg would fall down in the direction of their chest, and in the worst-case scenario, their other leg will also unhook, making them fall.
Courtney was cursing her luck. She could see Mike's back and even if he was struggling she was sure she got the worse part. Her hair hanging toward the ground and her breasts going to her neck made it harder to walk across the stupid velcro surface.
But unknown to her Mike thought the same. The blood on his head was making him dizzy and he blamed his height. Also, his long legs make each step grueling. And the worse part was he couldn't see Courtney. She could be further back or just behind his ankles. But stopping to make sure was not an option.
On the goal Chris and the 12 remaining competitors were waiting. Some campers were cheering for Mike, like Amy or Topher, others for Courtney, like Brick and Heather. And Zoey was cheering for both.
But some of them like Shawn, Duncan, or Alejandro just watched the race. It was a battle of stamina and wit. Either Mike will endure or he will lose to Courtney.
And neither of them would give up easily. The sweat fell on their face, the blood going to their head, and each step was done with a concert of grunts and huffs.
Mike was closer to the end but Courtney was going faster. If the race was extended the Latin girl would have won. But sadly for the foxes it was not.
In a swift movement, Mike took off his boots and let himself fall over the green mattress. Only seconds before Courtney.
"AAAAAND the Ferrets win the race by a nose. That was an exciting and close ending for the craziest race EVER," exclaimed Chris in an excited voice pointing at the camera.
"It was really crazy with the melted ice section," said Heather in a Snarky tone.
"And those laughable traps on the wall section," chuckled Amy.
With his face still green, Duncan gave her a death glare. "You don't see me laughing, wicked twin."
Amy scowled at him but was interrupted by Chris.
"Stop! Ok maybe it wasn't the craziest but it was one of the craziest races ever, fine?" the host narrowed his eyes at the competitors. "Now foxes remember we have a date at the campfire. See ya."
Courtney was still lying on the red mattress covering her face with her arm and still heavy breathing. This has to be a nightmare.
Confessional - Mike
"I can't believe I won," said Mike with a grin on his face. "That must be the worst experience I have in a long time. I'm not sure if Chris intended to sell those boots. But I'll not give them to my worst enemy."
Brick was in the forest again. Yesterday when Alejandro found him he was so scared that he dropped his shades somewhere around here. So after the challenge he decided to go back and found them. After all he loves those shades.
The woods were less spooky under the sunlight but he still felt nervous. He looked right and left to make sure no bear or something else was around him.
He crouched at the ground looking in bushes and between the grass. Brick loosely remembered the way he and Alejandro took last night so it wasn't easy to track back his way.
Then he found them near a big tree with a house built over it. The shades were dirty but intact, he couldn't believe his luck! He picked up and kissed them. They may have lost the challenge but it was his lucky day.
Then he heard a voice. It came from the treehouse. Brick didn't know why but he hid in nearby bushes after hearing it.
"Really? You're having second thoughts? It seems you have a heart after all," said Alejandro in a mocking tone.
Alejandro? What was he doing here? Thought Brick. He probably was here yesterday. He tried to hear the other person but he couldn't.
"There was no other way. But if worse comes to worse, I have an Immunity Idol so there is nothing to worry about. At least the first time," replied Alejandro confidently.
He has an immunity idol? Brick was surprised. The Spaniard never mentioned it. Was it because he found it today? Or because he didn't intend to share it?
Maybe it was the second one and he was in his right. After all it's a competition show where only one can win in the end. But he offered it to the other person. It didn't make sense.
"So this time we'll focus on Zoey. She is in alliance with Duncan and lost the first part of the challenge. Is better to take her out before they can make a move," said Alejandro in a serious tone.
But that last part was one too much for the cadet to hear.
"ALEJANDRO! What are you saying? We can't boot Zoey," shouted Brick coming out of the bushes, scowling at the treehouse.
The Spaniard came out glaring at the cadet with a dead-serious expression. After a moment he recovered his composure and smiled. "Brick my friend. I can't believe you of all people were snooping."
Alejandro jumped from the tree falling next to Brick, just like the day before.
"Sorry, it wasn't my intention to overhear your conversation." Apologized Brick in an ashamed tone, but then he recovered his confidence looking fiercely at him. "But I can't ignore the fact that you're planning to vote off one of my friends."
"But-" Alejandro started, then he took a moment to order his thoughts. "Brick I'm sorry, but believe me it's not personal. She did terribly on the first challenge and we need to eliminate someone tonight."
The cadet nodded, still frowning. "Of course I understand. But even then, there are other people. Duncan, Heather or Courtney. Why Zoey? Just because you think she is in cahoots with Duncan?"
"I think?" Alejandro's face beamed. "Oh no, my friend. I'm sure she's in an alliance with the delinquent. She didn't tell you?"
"Ehm, no. Maybe she forgot to mention it," said Brick rubbing his neck.
Alejandro put an arm across Brick shoulders, smiling, "Then maybe you need to talk with her and then come back to me. If you still don't want to vote for her I'll change my vote."
"Let's do that," replied the cadet, saluting. "I'll go and talk with her. Once I make sure of her intentions we will talk again."
Brick then began to run back to the cabins Alejandro waving at him. Today elimination will be a hard one.
Confessional - Brick
"I don't want to believe it but maybe Alejandro lied to me. I know he's only playing the game but I would prefer that he trust me instead of trying to deceive me. I need to confront him but first I need to talk with Zoey about all this." Said Brick with a fist under his chin and thoughtful expression.
Behind the cabins Courtney was sitting at one of the picnic tables where Cody used to play poker with Heather. Today was the first elimination they'll do without the brunette boy and Courtney was still thinking about what he told her before going out of the island. Duncan or Heather betrayed us.
Just then the Queen Bee came from the cabins, but curiously she wasn't alone. Walking next to her was the twin cheerleader.
"Courtney dear, I think you already know Samantha. Samantha this is Courtney. Samantha is the newest member of our club," said Heather while sitting at the picnic table.
"Yes, we already met before. It's a pleasure Miss Courtney. Please call me Sammy, if you want of course," said Sammy. The younger twin felt like a fool for that awkward introduction but she didn't have too much experience making friends.
"Nice to meet you," replied Courtney in a brief and polite answer. "I can't believe we just lost after all that effort."
"Yes it's so infuriating," said Heather tossing her braid. "So we're here again. Who should we vote for?"
Sammy took a deep breath, "I think we should vote for Zoey. She di- did a bad job in the first leg."
"Sorry Sammy, but we're voting for Alejandro," replied Courtney looking at Heather.
"As much as I want to get rid of him, Samantha's right. Zoey basically lost the challenge. She's the best option," the Queen Bee looked into the Latin girl eyes. Her expression was serious and cold.
Courtney slammed the table, "Are you kidding me!? We form this alliance to get rid of Alejandro, remember? Because he cheated on you. And this is our best chance."
"I don't need you to remind me of that! But we don't have enough votes. If we vote for Alejandro we're at risk of being eliminated ourselves," shouted Heather in a louder tone making Sammy wince.
"Heather, we have three votes of seven. We can get Zoey to vote with us because she definitely doesn't want to go. It's our best chance," rebuked Courtney, also in a louder tone.
The Asian girl sighed. "You're right. It's the chance for my vengeance. Let's do as you say this time."
"Then I'll try to find Zoey," said Courtney standing up. "We need to assure she'll vote with us."
The Latin girl stood up and went on his way to look for the indie girl, "see you later."
Sammy waved weakly at her and then turned toward Heather. "I didn't know Alejandro betrayed you."
"It's a long story. My poor friend still can't trust men after Duncan cheated on her," replied Heather shrugging. "But don't worry about it."
"So we're now voting for Alejandro instead of Zoey?" asked Sammy, "because that isn't what we talked about before meeting with Courtney."
Heather put a hand on Sammy's shoulder. "Don't worry too much about it. We'll go with Alejandro, except if Courtney fails, then we will return to Zoey as planned."
The younger twin nodded and followed Heather as the Queen bee stood up and began to walk to the dining hall. They will need to wait for Courtney, but it was obvious what Zoey would say.
Confessional - Sammy
The younger twin had a thoughtful expression with her arms folded. "I don't understand what happened. Before talking with Courtney, Heather was fixed on eliminating Zoey. And now we're voting Alejandro? I never thought she would change her mind so easily. Especially after telling me I have to be more resolute on my opinions."
Duncan was at the docks looking at the sunset. Zoey was sitting at his side and looked at him. He seemed mesmerized by the sunset. She always thought of how mysterious his expression was at this place.
"And," she said, taking him out of his thoughts. "What will we do with tonight's elimination?"
He kept silent. Alejandro told him to vote for Zoey but there was no way he'd vote her out. But before he could answer someone spoke behind them.
"I have a proposal if you want to hear me." Courtney said in a neutral tone, not showing any emotion.
The Indie girl stood up and ran toward the Latin girl, while the delinquent smirked and leaned against a post in the dock.
"Court! Hello, we were… ehm … here chatting about the … challenge?" Zoey said, nervously realizing that Courtney just walked into their alliance meeting.
The former C.I.T rolled her eyes, "Don't worry Zoey. In fact it's more convenient if you and that delinquent are together to hear what I have to say."
"I ask permission to join this conversation," said another person in a martial tone, who was coming from the far side of the dock.
The three foxes looked with surprise (and Duncan with annoyment) at Brick saluting and walking toward them. He had an unusual frown on his face. "I don't want to bother but there are some pressing matters that require your help."
"Sorry G.I. Joe, this party is with an invitation-only. So get lost," replied Duncan narrowing his eyes at the cadet.
Zoey put a hand in front of the delinquent, "Sorry, Duncan! I think Brick should stay. Or at least let Courtney decide if he can stay or not."
Then all the eyes were over the Latin girl. She looked at Brick and shrugged. "I don't have any problem. It can be convenient if he stays."
There was a small silence. Zoey smiled while Duncan looked at the former C.I.T. with wide eyes. What was she thinking? She knew Brick was an ally of Alejandro, right? But whatever, he will play along for now.
The cadet saluted her. "Thanks, ma'am, I assure you'll not regret this."
Brick walked and stood near Zoey while Duncan frowned and folded his arms. The three were looking with attention to Courtney.
The Latin girl smiled. This was better than she could expect. Now she had to do a leap of faith both in Duncan telling the truth and Brick being Zoey's friend.
"For tonight's elimination the obvious target is Zoey. If we leave it like that she'll be booted tonight. And I'm sure none of us want that," said Courtney in a cold and emotionless tone.
Zoey looked ashamed at the ground. "Sorry guys, I'm still not sure how Topher beat me. There was something weird about the woods."
"Don't worry Red. That is already old history now. We need to focus on the elimination," replied Duncan winking.
"Duncan's right Zoey. You did your best and that is what really matters," added Brick, smiling at Zoey and Duncan. He then turned to Courtney, "it's true neither of us wants Zoey eliminated ma'am, so I imagine you have a proposal."
There was a small silence and then Courtney nodded. "Yes, with our four votes we can eliminate anyone, so I was thinking of voting for Alejandro." After saying that she looked at Brick.
"Alejandro's my friend. I would prefer to avoid voting for him if possible," replied the cadet rubbing his neck.
"G.I. Joe, you know only one can win the damn competition, right?" said Duncan narrowing his eyes at the cadet
But Brick looked fiercely at the delinquent. "Of course I know that but…"
"I hate to agree with Duncan. But your friend is the more dangerous player on our team. It'll be better if we take care of him while we have the chance," Courtney explained folding her arms, "or you prefer eliminating Zoey?"
"Of course not but…" Brick hesitated. This was betraying Alejandro but if he kept quiet Zoey might become the one eliminated instead. "Even if we vote for him he has an Immunity Idol. So our votes will be void."
Courtney, Zoey, and Duncan's jaw dropped. This was a wrench in their plans.
"HEY G.I. Joe! Are you sure? You're not lying to save that snake, are you? " asked Duncan glaring at him.
The cadet glared back at the delinquent. "I don't lie and much less in a situation like this."
"This was unexpected," muttered Courtney biting the inside of her cheek. "I can't believe Alejandro and his luck with the idols."
"Maybe we can try to vote for him and also for the second elimination. That way he has to use his idol," proposed Zoey excitedly.
The delinquent shook his head, "For that we need 3 votes for Alejandro and 3 for the true eliminations, and we have only 4 votes."
"What about voting for someone else?" asked Zoey raising a hand, "like Heather?"
That was Courtney's rubicon. It was the moment to choose either trust in Duncan or in Heather. But once she had made her decision there was no going back.
"I have an idea," said Courtney, her gaze cold as ice. "It's risky but if it works we can eliminate both Alejandro and his idol. But if it fails Zoey may be eliminated."
There was a small silence among the four. After some moments the indie girl was the first to talk.
"Let's hear Courtney's idea. Either way I'm at risk of being booted off the island. So if I can take Alejandro's idol with me, it will be a small victory," Zoey tried to make a reassuring smile but there was some sadness in it.
Brick felt a sting on his chest. He didn't want to betray Zoey but neither Alejandro. He felt mad because the Spaniard decided to vote her out. But telling them was the right thing to do? He was thinking about this as Courtney talked.
But he wasn't the only one that felt they were betraying former friends. Courtney took a deep breath and said her plan. "You three will vote for Heather, and I'll convince her and the twin to vote Alejandro."
"So we're taking her or Al out of the game? Sounds fair," replied Duncan smirking.
Zoey looked at the Latin girl frowning worriedly, "Are you sure? I thought you and Heather were friends?"
"I'm sure," lied Courtney. But she needed to make a decision and choose Duncan. "In the last elimination I think she blindsided Cody. So I will hit her before she has the chance to hit me."
Brick didn't seem too sure. "Is there no other way? I don't feel right doing this. Seems like bullying."
"Are you having second thoughts G.I. Joe? This is a competition. If you let your opponent keep their advantage you're fucked," shouted Duncan glaring at him. There was something in the cadet that annoyed him.
"Stop Dun," Zoey stood between the cadet and him. "We only found out about Alejandro's idol thanks to Brick. We should be grateful to him. And if he doesn't want to vote with us we need to respect his decision."
The delinquent huffed and leaned against the post again while Courtney faced Brick. "Zoey's right. Do what you feel is the right thing. Just remember you have to vote either way for Heather, Alejandro, Sammy, or one of us."
Brick nodded. "Thanks for your understanding, ma'am. I'll take my leave then."
The cadet then went into the shadows. He was so worried about the votation that he forgot it was already dark.
"Damn G.I. Joe," Duncan shook his head. "And now? Did we continue with the plan?"
Courtney nodded. "As long as Brick doesn't vote for Zoey the plan can work. So let's cross our fingers."
The redhead stood up and hugged the Latin girl. "Don't worry! I'm sure everything will be ok."
Courtney then went back to the dining hall to talk with Heather and Sammy. It was true that Zoey accepted voting for Alejandro.
Weird enough Heather accepted quite easily to vote for him after all.
Confessional - Zoey
"I know what I said but I'm really nervous about this elimination. I hope everything ends ok. But if I have to go today I won't regret it," said Zoey smiling, but soon her expression turned into a frown. "Ok, I maybe regret a little I couldn't stay longer with Mike. But let's not be pessimistic."
On the campfire the seven remaining Foxes were already waiting for the elimination ceremony to start. Brick looked at the ground while Zoey and Sammy seemed nervous, their eyes darting left and right. There was a heavy atmosphere over all the contestants.
"Wow! You are without a doubt my favorite failures. Each ceremony the tension is greater. I really hope you can keep losing until the merge. That would be awesome," said Chris in a mocking tone, holding a plate with marshmallows in his hand.
"Wonderful, you're SO funny, just like in your cats' movies," said Heather in a snarky tone. "Can you continue with the ceremony?"
"Those movies are masterpieces but maybe too refined for your crude humor sense," rebuked Chris hurt by the Queen Bee comment. " And as I was saying I have in this plate 6 marshmallows. They symbolize your time on the island. The person that doesn't receive a marshmallow will have to wear the vest of failure and take a ride on the chopper of shame out of the island and can't come back here EVER."
"Can we start voting?" asked Courtney who as impatient as every fox at the ceremony.
Chris sighed, "Yes, you can now go and vote for your least favorite teammate."
The foxes started to go one by one to the voting cabin. Each of their votes was decisive for tonight's ceremony.
Vote confessional: Sammy
"Zoey or Alejandro? I know what Heather and Courtney said but they changed their opinion so many times that I'm not sure. There! I hope it's the right choice," said Sammy voting on her pad while closing her eyes.
Vote confessional: Courtney
The former C.I.T. just pressed a button on her pad with a cold expression. "Alea jacta est[2] it's swim or sink now."
Vote confessional: Duncan
"I'll love to see your face when the results are shown. This will be quite funny," Duncan smirked and voted on his tablet.
"And you never fail to entertain me. I just wish that the Ferrets ceremonies were as entertaining as yours but sadly that isn't the case," said Chris, chuckling while looking at the results.
"And the next fortunate contestants are still on the game Courtney, Brick, Sammy, Duncan take your marshmallows," said Chris throwing them quickly. None of them was truly surprised by this.
Chris then narrowed his eyes at the remaining campers, "The remaining three campers earn some votes, so anything can happen. So let's give this one to Alejandro."
The host threw a marshmallow to the Spaniard, there was a small silence among the crowd. Heather narrowed her eyes at her teammates.
"And now there is only one marshmallow. Heather you have been bossy around your teammates and took a lot of time to escape the maze. Zoey you lost a lot of time for your team during the first leg which cost the challenge."
Zoey pressed her lips together. If Alejandro wasn't in the last two it meant their plan failed. Heather just clenched her fists trying to look composed but she was furious.
"So tonight the last marshmallow is for . . ."
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"Zoey."
"Phew!" exclaimed Zoey cleaning the sweat from her forehead.
"NO!" shouted Sammy biting her fist.
"Heather, please come with me. I have a vest for you," said Chris making an exaggerated bow.
The Queen Bee stood up glaring at her team. "You traitors. I can't believe you voted for me. But sorry, I have no intention to go."
Saying this she walked to her stump again and took something from it.
Chris looked at her with wide eyes. "Is that what I think it is?"
"Yes, A Chris McLame Immunity Idol. So I'm safe," said Heather giving the wood statue to Chris.
The host took the small idol and examined it. "It's legit. Heather is safe."
"Bye-bye indie brat," said the Queen Bee waving at Zoey with a smirk on her face.
"Not so fast," interrupted Chris with a mocking smile. "We have a tie in the votes. So right now we'll have a tiebreaker between Zoey and Alejandro."
The Spaniard blanched. "If it's a joke Chris. This isn't funny."
"There is no joke. And as this is Tyranny of the Masses instead of a tiebreaker we will decide this by popularity," Chris took out his phone and frowned after looking at the screen. "What a surprise! Both are also tied in popularity. We'll have to do a traditional tiebreaker after all."
Logan, Steve, and the other interns prepared the tiebreaker. From the floor raised 2 poles, with a rope connecting both.
"The tiebreaker is easy. You have to balance in the middle of this rope. The one that can stay longer wins the tiebreaker. The other one has a date with the chopper of shame," said Chris smiling while both contestants went over the rope.
"Good Luck, señorita," said Alejandro while jumping over the rope.
"Eh? good luck to you too," replied Zoey surprised by the Spaniard's carefree attitude.
Both Alejandro and Zoey stood over the rope. It was easy at first but as time passed the post began to extend increasing the distance to the ground.
Zoey had some problems balancing but she stood relatively still while Alejandro wobbled.
"I think I lost this one," said Alejandro letting himself fall backward. Zoey couldn't believe she won, instinctively lowering her guard. That was what the Spaniard was looking for.
Alejandro fell over the rope and used the momentum to bounce on it, jumping in the air while making it wave violently. Zoey wasn't prepared for this and, in a moment, fell from the rope.
"ZOEY!" shouted someone, running and cushioning her fall.
The indie girl was stunned and then realized who saved her. "Mike!?" The thin guy smiled at her happy to catch her on time.
"IT'S NOT FAIR! He used the rope to knock her down!" protested Courtney jabbing her finger at Chris, who extended his arms to keep her away.
"Please no touching," replied Chris scowling at the Latin girl." And Alejandro never touched the ground so he was still in the game. SO the tiebreaker is over. Alejandro stays in the game and Zoey has a date with the chopper of shame."
"NOOO! It can't be! Zoey what I will do without you?" asked Mike with tears in his eyes.
Zoey touched his cheek, tenderly "Sorry Mike, I-"
"There is no time! So hurry and put on the vest of failure. We are behind schedule!" said Chris interrupting her and taking her hand.
The indie girl with a sad expression put on the vest and said her goodbyes to her friends. Brick, Duncan, Courtney, and Mike remained in the dock.
"Sorry Zoey, it was my fault," apologized Courtney, hugging her tenderly.
"Don't blame yourself. I knew the risks. Thanks for being there for me these last days," said Zoey before letting her go. "Just don't give up on yourself."
Then she hugged Brick. "It was a pleasure to be on your team again Brick. Please never change."
"Zoey…" Brick only hugged her in silence while crying.
"And you, scarecrow, you are the one I'll miss the most, well after Mike of course," said Zoey hugging Duncan.
"Red, as usual you don't make any sense," replied the delinquent. He took out his pocket knife while returning the hug. Only one person noticed this.
"Take care of Courtney," whispered Zoey before releasing him.
"Shut up," he replied smirking.
"And Mike, I'm sorry," said Zoey hugging him.
"Why are you apologizing?" replied Mike
"Because…" she started. But as she began to talk the chopper of shame hooked the ring on her vest and took her away.
Or it tried, but as the chopper pulled her it ripped the vest carrying away only the ring and leaving Zoey embracing Mike.
Chris' eyes went wide, and he looked distressed at the chubby intern. "Steve bring another Vest presto[3] and tell James of props that he is fired. Hurry up."
Zoey and Mike looked at each other smiling. At least they have the chance to talk a little before Chris brought the new vest of failure.
"Mike I wanted to apologize because I was insecure about us all this time. Sorry for being so possessive and overwhelming." She said, hugging him as the rest of the contestants left them alone.
"What?" replied Mike looking at her with wide eyes. "Zoey don't say that. You're the best thing in my life. I'm the one that has to apologize. I lied about my grandparents." He gulped and then continued, "The truth is that I don't have any family that cares about me."
Zoey looked at him with tears in her eyes."Why didn't you tell me?"
"Because I was ashamed. I didn't want you to pity me, at least not at first. And then I couldn't find the courage to tell you the truth," Mike replied crying and embracing her tightly.
"Mike you can be so silly. I love you and nothing will change that. And don't say you don't have a family. I'm here and my parents love you. And I'm sure the people at the shelter wouldn't lie for anyone else," Zoey said drying the tears falling through his face.
Mike sighed sadly. "I don't know what I'll do without you. I'm not myself without you."
As her answer Zoey kissed him. It was a long and tender kiss. "You're the coolest guy I ever met. You'll be fine. Think of it like your chance for you to also win a season."
Mike pressed his lips together and nodded as Steve brought a new vest of failure.
"It's a little tight," said the indie girl, as she put on the vest that was obviously too small for her.
"Sorry, this is the one Miss Beth used," said Steve walking back and giving a thumbs up to Chris.
The host smiled. "At last. Zoey a little late but goodbye."
"I love you," said Mike, trying to not cry.
"I love you too," replied Zoey as the chopper of shame took her and carried her into the air.
The former multiple Mike stood there looking at the sky as his girlfriend was taken away. He was feeling more lonely than ever.
"And at last the episode has ended," said Chris winking excitedly. "But the show still goes. What will happen with Mike now that Zoey left the game? Will Courtney and Heather's alliance survive the betrayal? And will we find a new Props manager that can keep the props in good shape? Find out on the next exciting episode of Total Drama: Tyranny of the Masses."
Author Notes:
[1] Buena Suerte = Good Luck
Tu turno, Confió en ti= (It's) your turn, I trust you(to win)
[2]Alea jacta est: Literally the dice are thrown, is an expression that means there is no going back.
[3] presto = Italian for soon
And the 11th contestants was eliminated. What will happen now with the foxes? Can the ferrets capitalize on the advantage and keep winning? And what was the presence that Zoey felt in the forest? Find out in the next episode of Total Drama Tyranny of the Masses.
Sorry to all Zoey's fans but someone had to go and sadly Heather had that immunity idol. I still had a couple of things I could do with the redhead but I think eliminations must felt like this. That is too soon. I hope you enjoyed the chapter.
Votes
Heather 3 (void)
Alejandro 2
Zoey 2 (eliminated in tiebraker)
Immunity idols left: 1
D.A.M. Eliminations left: 4
Favorite Foxes: Alejandro, Brick, Courtney, Duncan, Heather, Sammy.
Fan Ferrets: Amy, Dramaman, Lilly, Mike, Shawn, Sky, Topher
Eliminated: Cameron, Jasmine, Max, Lindsay, Dawn, Jay, Lightning, Charlotte, Beth, Cody. Zoey.
As always, thanks for reading and I hope you like it.
Chris was walking on the road to the island lower lever, in which the editing room, the control room, and his room were located, among other facilities that helped to produce the show. He was angrily talking on his phone.
"Yes… I know we have to use popularity to decide the tiebreaker. But the winner changed too suddenly and I didn't want to deal with angry fans again like when we eliminated that creepy girl. Maybe there is something wrong with the computer?" he was shouting without noticing someone in front of him.
The person began to growl at Chris, narrowing their eyes and showing their fangs.
The host took off the phone from his ear and looked at them, blanching and with wide eyes as if they were a ghost. "What are you doing here?"
But before the host could react someone rushed from the wood and hit him fiercely with a wooden club in the head. Chris felt to the ground like a rag doll, unconscious.
"Well master, it seems the first part of the plan is successful. At last we can take revenge on those who betrayed us," said the person with the club, his brown skin and shaved head illuminated by the full moon.
The first person took Chris and carried him to the caves in the mountains followed by the bald guy. Leaving the phone behind...