DISCLAIMER:
Greetings, episode 69 released. We're at the best 3, and anything can happen. What challenge will decide who goes to the final? And which of these 3 contestants will be eliminated? Find out now here in Total Drama Tyranny of the Masses.
And if you are enjoying the story, remember to mark it as a favorite, or leave a review with your thoughts if you feel fancy. That way, not only get motivated but also can improve this and other stories. Now before getting started let me answer last week's reviews before getting started.
theswenuser: Totally true, you got it right. Now any of the remaining players are not winners, so anything can happen.
amit. avrashmi: interesting theories, I wonder what will happen with the challenge. And about the Courtney vs Brick, it's a nice finale, but I'm not sure if it will be THE finale.
gman: Thanks a lot, and yes it was a close one, anyone could have gone home in that one.
Tempokeep: Thanks for your kind words, I'm kind of proud of my Mike in Tyranny, I tried to play him different, and I hope it was enjoyable. After All-stars people use him usually as fodder or ignore what happened in AS, and I wanted to make him memorable but respecting the ending (or something like that)
And about the finale, I like that prediction, I wonder if it will be the right one.
And as always, a HUMONGOUS shoutout and THANKS to Geofics, who helps me proofread the episodes. Thanks for all your help during all these months. We're almost there. Thanks for your help.
Total Drama belongs to Fresh TV, its creators, and associates companies. I don't own anything from the properties used in this fic.
Ten little tokens part 1
Last time on Total Drama Tyranny of the masses, we had a night challenge in which our campers had to show their dexterity, teamwork, and ingenuity. Each team had to perform 20 tasks from a list of classic camp handicrafts and activities. The team with more tasks completed would win the challenge.
It was an intense battle between the lame and boring team of Samey and Mike against the dull and hysterical team of Brick and Courtney. They crafted and ran around the dark forest gathering materials, and building some of the ugliest items I ever see. Thanks to the bonus task, the Courtney and Brick team won the immunity.
In the end, after a dramatic tiebreaker, the boring Mike went out of the competition. I won't miss him.
And just like that, we're in the final 3 of the competition. This is the furthest any of these former losers have advanced in any season. So now that they are here, they will try to win the gold. Who will get the chance for the million, and who will be eliminated just before reaching the finale? Find out next on Total Drama: Tyranny of the Masses.
It was the morning after Mike's elimination. The night was a warm summer one, but none of the final 3 could sleep.
Sammy was too nervous. Many things were running through her head. It wasn't the possibility of reaching the finale. It was the way she reached the top 3, which keep her awake. She felt distraught and full of doubts.
The twin went out to train in the forest one full hour before usual, but even moving her body couldn't take her mind off the decision she needed to make. What she wanted to do against what she should do.
For Courtney, she was unusually excited. She was in the final 3 for the first time after so many years. The old Courtney wouldn't think anything about it because anything under first wasn't good enough. But for her right now, it was a small victory. She was here thanks to the help of many, and now she needed to do her best and try to reach the next step. But could she reach the finale?
The former CIT went to take a shower and then walked to the woods, where she would re-read Pride and Prejudice. It's funny how the book took a full new meaning after all she experienced on the island.
Brick was trained to deal with stress and situations in which the odds were against him. He was a soldier and knew how to confront adversity. But this kind of situation was different. Things were going well. He just needed to push forward a little longer and beat Courtney and Sammy.
But, could he do it? He considered both friends. In fact he was in the final 3 thanks to Courtney, and Sammy and Amy were really nice girls. Does he deserve the million prize more than them?
He went jogging as he did every day. He knew he deserved to win as much as them. He knew he had a duty to win to thank every person who helped and supported him so far. But knowing in your mind and feeling it in your heart were different things.
The three had a bad night, and they knew that they had to push their game to the next level and leave behind their doubts if they wanted to win the show.
As Sammy made some jumping jacks she began to think how amusing her Zombie apocalypse training was. It started as a way to win an advantage against Amy, to eliminate her. But somewhere along the way, she began to enjoy it.
And who knows, maybe in the future it would help her to survive the apocalypse. Just the idea made her chuckle.
She also knew there was something she needed to do, so after ending her daily routine, she would go and look for her sister.
Coincidentally, Amy also felt something was wrong and was looking for Sammy. Twins are really a unique kind of sibling.
"Good morning Sammy. Isn't it too early to be jumping and sweating?" said the older twin. There was a warm feeling in the younger twin's heart each time she listened to her sister using her name.
"You should also start training. It's really good for your health, and if not, I'll be the best twin in no time," said Sammy, not stopping her jumping jacks.
Amy shrugged. "I'll think about it once we're back at home."
"And also, it can save your life once the Z-apocalypse starts," added the younger one, winking.
"Hahaha, of cooooourse. The zombie apocalypse" replied Amy in a snarky tone.
Sammy ended her repetitions, drank some water with her sister, and talked about Amy's work as an intern. But the young twin wasn't really into it, still thinking about what happened yesterday.
"Are you ok?" asked Amy, tilting her head.
"Eh? Yes why do you ask?" replied Sammy, not really thinking what she was answering.
The older sister rolled her eyes. "Ple-e-ase! That's a lie as big as your Aussie friend. Something is bothering you. You're not even listening to me. So c'mon, if I can, I'll help you."
That was all that Sammy needed. "Ok, Amy, there is something I wanted to ask you."
"Stop beating around the bush and just tell me, what do you need?" Replied Amy, smiling.
"I want to compete in tomorrow's challenge," said Sammy, her expression turning into a serious frown.
Amy wanted to argue. Was she crazy? What about her arm? It was like asking to compete with a handicap!
But she said that she would help, and Amy did many nasty things but wasn't a liar. (Ok she lied sometimes, but she didn't want to lie to her baby sister right now.)
"Why? Because Mike and I lost yesterday's challenge?" asked the older sister, trying to respect her sister's decision.
"No, I would have probably lost too," said Sammy, trying to find the correct words. "But it's not fair. I'm the one in the best 3, and I want to compete with Courtney, with Brick, with Mike. After Mike was eliminated, I just felt so… frustrated. When Chris was saying why was I in the bottom 2, I felt upset because I knew I didn't do any of the things he mentioned."
The younger twin continued, clearly distraught. "Mike lost with so much dignity. His words and his gratitude were genuine, but he wasn't thanking me. He was thanking you. You were the one that was with him in the challenge."
Amy hugged her across the shoulders, "Ok, ok. I didn't know you felt like this. Go and beat them."
"Aren't you angry? After all, I just put you in the competition to selfishly take you out of it," asked Sammy, not believing this would be so easy.
"Sammy, we're together in this one. If it's what you want, I'm in as long as you're happy. I prefer your smile to a million dollars any day," said the older sister, smiling just like Sammy.
The young twins blinked and then began to laugh. "I can't believe you said that with a straight face. Hahahaha, it's so cheesy!."
"Don't laugh. I really mean it," said Amy, folding her arms flustered. "Ok, this is the last time I open my heart to you, idiot."
"Don't get so angry. It was just too weird," said Sammy drying a tear. "Thanks, Amy, you're the best sister."
Amy sighed and smiled. "It's a shame they don't film our rest days. I would love someone to have recorded this moment."
Both sisters then laughed. And for Sammy, it was a weight off her shoulders. Now she was ready to take on the next challenge.
Confessional: Sammy
"Now I'm ready, and I'll go into the finale. I'll just do my best and not get so worried about everything. Sometimes things are easier in reality than we thought, I just need to think less and I'll be fine," said Sammy making a big smile and a fist pump.
At the woods entrance, Courtney was reading again. She then raised her eyes when she heard someone jogging toward her.
"Hello ma'am, Did you sleep well?" asked the cadet as he came closer.
"Hello Brick, yes, I sleep well," lied the Latin girl. She didn't want to go into details of how she slept last night. "And you?"
He rubbed his neck, making an honest smile. "Not that well. I'm really nervous about being in the final 3. I still can't believe it."
"I thought you didn't care about the game," commented Courtney, a little embarrassed for lying to him.
"Oh, I care, that million will help me a lot and also is a good test for my skills. I don't like the alliances and betrayal game because ... because I'm not that smart, and at the beginning of the season, I made a mistake because I voted without thinking."
Courtney blinked, not expecting this. "Really? What happened? I mean if you're fine talking about it."
"On our first elimination, I voted for Jasmine. I didn't have anyone I really wanted to eliminate, and Amy asked me to help her," replied Brick, frowning sadly. "I didn't give it too much thought, but my vote caused a schism in the team and marked me as an enemy or ally to some players," he then made a small smile. "The problem wasn't my vote, it was that I didn't realize how important my vote was. I betrayed my friends and teammates without realizing it."
"You are really square about things sometimes," said Courtney, smirking.
Brick chuckled, sitting at her side and rubbing his neck. "I'm sorry, I guess I am."
"That's not something bad, as long as you know when to stop," replied the former CIT. "I was also a really inflexible person, I probably still am, but I'm trying to change."
"That's great. Constantly improving yourself is an admirable goal," said the cadet, looking at her hands. "If I may ask, What are you reading?"
"Oh this, 'pride and prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a great novel. I recommend it if you like romance," said Courtney, giving him the book.
Brick looked at the cover and opened it. "What's it about?"
"It's the story of a prideful woman and a prejudiced man who let their hardhead get in the way of their love. And how classes and family sometimes get in the way of relationships," said Courtney, her voice and gestures showing her passion for the story. "Elizabeth is a really good protagonist. If only she was a little less prideful, she would find happiness sooner."
"You really like this book," said the cadet, amused by the usual composed Courtney reaction.
She flustered, clearing her throat. "Ahem, what I mean is that I really enjoy it, so if you want I can lend it to you."
"Really? Ok I'll take your offer then," said the cadet smiling.
"I think you'll enjoy it," replied the former CIT.
Brick then looked at her smile, "Also, I'm really happy you have changed your mind."
"What do you mean?" asked Courtney. She didn't really feel she did something different from the usual.
"Some weeks ago, you would tell me we were enemies and refuse to talk like this," replied the cadet, making a big grin.
She chuckled, covering her mouth with her fist. "Hahaha, yes that's true, but I think we're really opponents, not enemies, so there is nothing bad with talking like this before the challenge."
"I'm glad you feel like that," said Brick, who then stood up. "I was about to go to the Mess hall. Do you want to come?"
She also stood up. "Yes, I'm not that hungry, but I can use a glass of water."
Then both walked to the mess hall, Brick was happy because it seemed he wouldn't lose his friends even if he wins the game, and Courtney was proud of the small changes that make her a better version of herself.
Confessional: Courtney
"Don't get the wrong idea, I still want to win the game, just that I don't think I must hate Sammy or Brick to do it. I want to win but if I lose against them, it'll also be fine," she said smirking. "The only thing I regret is lending Brick the book today. Now I need to find something else to do."
After joining Brick in the Mess Hall for a while, Courtney was walking on the new road that went around the island. It wasn't exactly her idea of fun, but it was fine enough to spend the afternoon.
The path was wide and well done. She was surprised the interns built it in just 2 days. Of course, it didn't surround the whole island, but it probably covered half of it, which was impressive enough.
Then she reached the end of the road. There was a shovel and a roller attached to a kart but nothing else.
She looked at the roller and was curious. She was strong, but strong enough to pull the cylinder of a pavement roller? This is something she would never try in the past, but why not?
So she took the rope and began to pull. Even if it was cylindrical, it was heavy, really heavy. She felt the blood running to her head and the veins showing. BUT it was moving.
"What are you doing?"
The question startled the Latin girl, who was so immersed in her silly test that she didn't notice someone coming closer.
She let go of the rope and fell on her butt, but this situation hurt her pride more than her body.
"Oh, I'm sorry I didn't intend to scare you," said Sammy, running and helping her to stand up.
"Don't worry, I was just distracted. It's not your fault," said Courtney, still flustered. "But please, let's not mention this again."
Sammy gave her a thumbs up. "No problem, I'll never mention it again. But that was awesome. You were pulling that roller by yourself."
Courtney frowned at her, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh, yes, never mention it again," said the younger twin, blushing.
"Hehe, don't worry, I was just joking," said the former CIT, her frown turning into a smile. "And I'm sure if you keep training, you'll also be capable of pulling something like that."
Sammy shrugged. "I'm not so focused on being strong, being fit and agile is enough for me. But it would be cool if I could also be strong."
"And that's also ok. Being strong is a decision you should make because you want to," said Courtney, making a sad smile.
"But, you can only become strong if you want? Or can you accidentally become strong?" asked the twin, confused by the former CIT words.
The Latin girl's sad smile turned into a true smile. "Not accidentally, but you can just force yourself to become something you don't want to be. Just because you want to please someone or to win their respect."
"Wow, sounds harsh," said Sammy, who realized she may have asked something she shouldn't.
"That's why you need to be the person YOU want to be, Sammy. Not the one your parents want, or your sister wants, or your friends want. Because at the end of the road, you and only you will pay for the decisions you make," said Courtney, her voice was clear and soft, as if she was talking of something dear to her.
Sammy put her hands behind her back, making an awkward smile. "It's funny because what you're telling me would sound weird and far-fetched for the old me. I was too afraid to try to change, to try to improve myself.
"More than my sister, I was afraid of trying and failing because that would mean she was right. So I preferred to not do anything and endure things as they were, instead of trying to change things and end in a worse place," said the younger twin, looking sadly at the ground.
"I'm sorry you have to endure all that. It wasn't fair," said Courtney, knowing that herself probably was a lot more like the bully than the victim.
The younger twin shrugged. "I hated it, but it wasn't all bad. After all I met Jasmine, Shawn, Topher, Duncan, and you because I never changed. Of course, I would want to make up with Amy before, and that she didn't bully me all these years, but there is no use in focusing on the past. It's better to focus on the future."
"You're really mature. Are you really 17 years old?" asked the Latin girl, blinking a couple of times.
"My parents always said I'm really mature for my age," said the younger twin, her face beaming.
Courtney chuckled. "Well, they're right. You're really a mature and nice girl, but-"
"But?" asked Sammy, blanching. Did she have some kind of flaw she never realized?
"But I still won't let you win the million," said Courtney, smirking.
Sammy chuckled, not expecting that answer. "You won't? Well, I didn't want your permission. I'll just beat you to it."
Both girls laughed and began to walk again back to the cabins. Both were friends, but that didn't mean they would give up the competition, all the opposite, for that reason, they would try harder to win.
It was some minutes before the sunset, and a person was sitting in the dock, looking at the horizon. He heard some softs steps coming closer to him.
"Hello Sammy, it's a pleasure to meet you at this location," said Brick, not looking at her.
"Hi Brick, how did you know it was me?" asked Sammy, sitting at his side.
Brick scratched his neck. "The way you walk, Courtney and your sister step harder."
"Really, I never noticed it," said Sammy, still surprised by the cadet's senses.
"And what are you doing here? Were you looking for me?" asked Brick tilting his head.
The younger twin blushed, "I came to look at the sunset."
"Really? What a coincidence, me too," said the cadet looking at her with wide eyes.
"Hahaha, wow, you're right, it's quite the coincidence," said Sammy. This was a really weird situation.
Brick rubbed his neck. "I actually didn't like sunsets that much. But I want to try to understand what Duncan saw in them."
"What? You too?" asked the younger twin in an excited tone. "He was really mysterious when looking at them."
"Yes, he was so focused on it," said Brick. He didn't suspect Sammy was here for the same reason.
The younger twin nodded. "Yes, he seemed so sad."
"Sad?" asked Brick.
"Yes, or at least I think he seemed sad," replied the twin.
Then both stood silent as the sun began to sink on the horizon. The mix of oranges, reds, and yellows reflected on the lake. It was a breathtaking image.
"Maybe," Sammy broke the silence. "Maybe he missed the sunrise while in prison, and looking at it reminded him he was free."
"That's possible. I always thought it reminded him that even if you make mistakes, there is always a new day and you can try again," said Brick, enthralled at sunset.
After the sun disappeared, both stood there. It was an unusual reunion.
"It's kind of fun we who were first ferrets and then foxes, are here in the final three," said Sammy looking at him and making a big smile.
"Totally true. I was really awed when Chirs announced you were becoming a fox too," said Brick, his eyes sparkling.
The twin chuckled. "I was furious and scared, we had enough votes to eliminate Amy, and now I was in a weird team, where I only knew you. I was sure I was the next one to go."
"It was a shame we couldn't bring Alejandro and Heather back together," said the cadet, looking ashamed at the lake.
"I won't be so sure," said Sammy making an impish smile. "When he was eliminated, he left her his necklace."
Brick hammered his hand against his hand. "I knew it! I saw her looking at it one time, and she told me it was a different necklace," he then chuckled. "I thought she was just a dangerous and selfish woman, but maybe she was just shy and didn't know how to express her feelings."
"Heather is a nice person. She only takes the game too seriously. I'm sure if you spent a little more time with her you would realize she isn't that bad," said Sammy, moving her legs which were hanging over the lake.
"If you and Alejandro say so, I'll give her the benefit of the doubt,"said the cadet, but he couldn't forget how Heather acted during the wedding challenge.
The twin smiled. "It's kind of weird, we're talking like this, having a good time when we're supposed to be enemies."
"We aren't enemies. We're just opponents," said Brick smiling, this was a Déjà vu. "After the show we can still be friends and keep in contact."
"You want to keep contact with my sister or with me?" asked Sammy in a sultry tone.
Brick blushed. "With both of you of course. I mean Amy is a fine and nice friend and all but…" he then mumbled a little and rubbed his neck. "Oh, please don't mock your seniors. I'm really bad with that kind of thing."
"Ok, I'll stop," said Sammy smiling, but she took note of Brick's reaction.
"You know Sammy," said the cadet looking at the stars, which started to appear in the dark sky. "I don't know what will happen tomorrow, but it's an honor to compete with you and Courtney in the final 3."
She nodded. "I'm also happy to compete with you. I wouldn't mind losing," she said and then panicked. "But that doesn't mean I'll throw the challenge. I'll still beat you two."
"I'm sure you'll do your best," said Brick saluting, "but I'll also do my best to beat you, no holding back, so be prepared."
Both looked at each other's eyes, they knew only one could win, but there wasn't any animosity between them, only a burning rivalry.
"By the way, can we go back together to the mess hall?" said Brick, his eyes darting back and forth. "I mean it's already late."
"Yes let's go," replied the young twin, making a big smile.
The two went together. Whoever wins the show, they would be proud of them. Sammy felt better after talking with him, and Brick's determination was burning stronger than ever. (He was also happy someone was walking with him in the dark.)
Confessional: Brick
"Today I found that my friends back home may be right and I'm a worrywart. I owe Sammy and Courtney an apology. They aren't people I should pity or feel nervous about beating. They're worthy rivals, and I must do my best to beat them. So get ready because Brick McArthur will do his best to win this game," said the cadet, saluting at the camera with a confident smile on his face.
It was night, Chef closed the mess hall and went to the woods to meet some interns.
"They don't pay me enough for this. I swear I'll look for a new job as soon as the season is over," mumbled Chef as he walked through the road.
He needed to find out if the interns finished the preparations for the next challenge. And because he didn't want to wait for them until midnight, he decided to go and find them.
But soon he would regret that decision.
"I told you to let me go, you useless piece of vegetation. If you don't let me go, I'll turn you into paper and firewood," shouted someone in the woods, an annoying and loud voice well known by Chef.
Max was hanging by his shirt from a tall tree, struggling to escape.
"Hey, gnome! How the hell did you end up there?" asked Chef, snickering.
"Need a hand?"
"What do you think, you second-rate food handler? Help me right now!" shouted Max. After hearing him Chef turned and began to walk away.
"Wait, I'm sorry. I was just too stressed. Please handsome, strong, and EVIL... sorry I mean kind person, help me!" said the purple-haired guy in a polite tone.
The co-host rolled his eyes, walked back, and kicked the tree.
"Wait! NOOOO!" shouted Max as he fell from the tree, bracing himself for the impact against the ground. But lucky for him, it didn't happen. Chef caught it with one hand at the last moment.
After letting him down, Max made a big smile. "Thanks for saving me. Once I complete my vengeance, this act of kindness will save your life," he said as he shook the dust off his clothes.
"Whatever, where is the tall girl? Weren't you working together?" asked Chef looking around. "Only you two hadn't come back."
"I decided that it would be more efficient that we work separately. That way, we cover more ground," said Max, folding his arms and smiling proudly.
Chef rubbed his chin. It was actually not a bad idea. "So you finish hiding them?"
"I still have one more to go," said the purple-haired guy, taking a small item from his pocket.
"I'll hide the last one," said Chef smirking and taking it off the short guy's hands. "Good job."
"Your praises are useless but appreciated," said Max blushing.
The big man looked at his wristwatch. It was already after 10:00 pm. "You go back to the campsite. Can you get there alone?"
"WHAT? Of course I can! Who do you think I AM? I'm MAX, the brightest, biggest, and EVILEST mind on this island. I'm more than capable of finding my way in this…" Max's arrogant tone became softer and sounded more nervous, "…dark and scary forest."
"Great, then good luck," said Chef as he went deeper into the woods, as Max went away.
After a full hour and without more places to look for her, Chef went to the crater where he, at last, found the uberfan.
"Hey crazy girl! Didn't we tell you the crater was off-limits to hide those damn things?" shouted Chef, who was already angry for having to look for her.
"What? But this is the best place to hide them! And I finished hiding all of them. I put 2 of them here," said Sierra in an upset tone.
Chef rolled his eyes. "Then retrieve them and give them to me. I'll hide them, but stop wasting time. That's almost midnight."
"But-"
"NO BUTS!" shouted Chef, his eyes bulging.
Sierra quickly took something buried in the crater, took a different item hidden in a tree near the crater, and handed both to Chef.
"Now let's hurry and go back to the campsite. It's already late," said the co-host, turning around.
"Ok, sir," said Sierra, saluting and chuckling. "Sorry, I always wanted to do that. Did that remind you of your time in the army?"
"No."
"Really? And here I thought my performance was really good. By the way, have you already decided what final challenge will be?" asked Sierra, putting her hand behind her head.
"NO! Chris is the one that plans that stuff. I just plan one or two challenges each season," said Chef, in a harsh tone expecting Sierra to take the hint and shut up.
But she didn't. "What a shame, and do you have a favorite contestant to win the show?"
"No."
"Really? Because during the ROTI season, you seemed to somehow like Brick McArthur. And Samey or like she likes to be called Sammy is one of the fan's favorites," said Sierra, taking out her notepad.
"Maybe I support that cadet a little," said the big man, chuckling, then he became serious again. "But I'm the co-host, so I'm impartial."
Sierra nodded, visibly excited. "Of course you are. Now one last question. About your relationship with Chris-"
"We're already at the campsite, so go to sleep," said Chef. It was already midnight, and he still needed to go and talk with Chris.
"But-"
"GO TO SLEEP"
"Yes sir," replied Sierra, saluting and running away. Maybe next time.
Chef went to the infirmary. Inside the building, Steve was working on the old laptop while Chris was talking on the phone.
Chris sounded tired and upset. "Yes, yes, 10 are more than enough. Just take them from the old junkyard. Remember we're under a budget," he then pinched his nose bridge. "Look Logan, you have only 4 grand. If you can't buy 10, buy 8 or 6… Remember we need them in 3 days... ciao."
The host ended the call. "That guy is sometimes so helpful, and others he seems like an amateur."
"Mr. McLean, Logan is doing his best, but he has been working for only 6 months. It's normal he needs help, especially when buying items without telling production," said the old intern while typing on the computer.
"Yes, yes. You're right Steve. I'm sorry, I really appreciate all of you and the other interns' hard work," said Chris rolling his eyes. "Also, before going to sleep, remember to give me a report of how many parts we found today."
Steve nodded, "we already have 553 pieces. The goal of 1000 is more than plausible."
"Perfect, keep the good work," said the host, smiling for the first time since Chef entered the infirmary. He then focused on the co-host. "And how are things going on your end?"
"Preparations are ready for tomorrow's challenge. Did you finish calling the people?" asked Chef, sitting on one of the beds.
Chris smirked. "Of course, we even downloaded the program to make the calls into Steve's computer, we tested it, and it works perfectly. So we have everything ready for tomorrow. Right, Steve?"
"Yes Mr. McLean, we even made the appointments. But one of them told us they can only wait until 10:00 am," said the chubby intern, looking at the screen.
"Excellent, so we'll need to make that call first. Such a shame I wanted to leave it for last," said Chris chuckling. "You can go now Steve, let's talk tomorrow."
The intern nodded, stood up and went away before Chris changed his mind. "Good night Mr. McLean and Mr. Hatchet."
"Then I'll also hit the sack. It's been a long day," said Chef stretching and cracking his neck.
"What? But I still need to practice my lines for tomorrow's episode, and I need your opinion," said Chris, looking upset at Chef.
The big man glared at him. "What? You just practiced them this morning!"
"I know, but I want to sound really emotional. This is my chance to look more human and kind to the audience. People love likable hosts," said Chris, sounding like a spoiled brat.
"NO! your lines are fine, and I'm tired. It's already 1:00 am, so I'll lay in this bed and sleep. Keep whining at your own risk," said Chef, sounding more menacing than usual.
Chris rolled his eyes. "As you wish, but don't blame me if the show is a big failure."
Chef ignored him, changed into his pajamas, and went to sleep. Tomorrow will be a long day.
The next morning, the three campers woke up and went on with their days. In contrast with the day before, the three had a good night of sleep.
Courtney was walking out of the communal baths when she heard Chris calling her.
"Good morning Courtney. Come here, we're about to start today's challenge," said Chris in an enthusiastic tone.
The Latin girl walked to the center of the campsite, where Chris and Chef were already waiting.
"Where are Brick and Sammy?" asked the former CIT, raising an eyebrow.
"We don't know. We send a pair of interns to fetch them," said Chris sighing. "I really miss the loudspeakers."
Courtney blinked a couple of times. "Can't you just connect them to a new mic?"
"No, they're too old. We need an old speaker system, so we'll wait until the end of the season to buy the replacement," said Chris shrugging. "and with only 3 of you in the show, it isn't too hard to send someone looking for you."
"Cheapskate," said Chef in a low voice, rolling his eyes.
After a moment, the twins arrived, Amy dressed in the intern uniform.
"Here she is," said the older twin, who then winked at her sister. "Good luck Sammy. Just two more wins."
"Yes, thanks Amy," said Sammy, smiling after hearing her name.
Chris rolled his eyes. "Are you really on good terms? Just like that? Such a shame Samey, you had such awesome chemistry."
"Are you really telling me you prefer when we hate each other?" asked the twin in an angry tone, putting a hand over her chest.
"Hehehe, of course not, it's just a joke," lied the host, who then looked at his clock. As soon as Brick arrived, they would get started.
But after 20 minutes, the cadet and the intern looking for him weren't there.
"Where are they? We're under a schedule," said Chris patting the ground.
"Couldn't you call us using the loudspeakers as usual?" asked Sammy, who was sitting with Courtney at a picnic table near the cabins.
"NO! And I'm not answering more questions about the loudspeakers," shouted Chris, glaring at her.
Courtney rolled her eyes. "It seems the loudspeakers are broken and are too expensive to repair."
"Cheapskate," mumbled Chef.
But before the offended Chris could say anything. Brick and the intern came back from the forest.
"And what happened next?" said Brick, looking at her with wide eyes.
"I just told him We can't leave the containers there like some amateurs. So Big-O and I borrowed Eva's mother's van, took off the license plate, put the drums inside it and drove all the way to Saratoga. Oh my gosh Noah was so nervous, he was sure the RCMP would find-" Izzy was jogging at Brick's side, talking non-stop.
"IZZY!" shouted Chris, "What happened? You went to find Brick so we could start the challenge!"
The redhead looked at him, tilted her head, and then hammered her hand on her palm. "Oh! Yes. Sorry, I forgot."
Chris facepalmed, "I don't know why I even bother." After that, he took a deep breath. "Well campers, congratulations, you're the final 3. And we're about to start the battle for the finale. Today 2 of you will win their right to compete for the million dollar prize."
Confessional: Sammy
"I never give a lot of thought. If I win the million, I will go on vacation to Australia, visit the Australian Outback with Topher and Shawn, and spend some weeks with Jasmine. Maybe I can even convince her to let Amy come if I can somehow make them get along. It'll be so fun," said Sammy making a big grin.
Confessional: Brick
The cadet had a thoughtful expression. "If I win the million, I will give a part to Cameron to thank him for his help and will save the rest to open my own business after I finish fashion school. I plan to start small with a few designs. My personal dream is to find someone using one of my designs in the street."
Confessional: Courtney
"My plan for the million? I'm not sure. I had so many plans for it in the past, but I'm more interested in winning the show than the money per se. Of course, I want to win the million, and I'll spend it, but I'm just not sure how at this moment," said Courtney, showing a small smile.
"Good job campers. Now before the challenge we have a big surprise for you. Consider it a prize for reaching the final 3. So let's get started, Courtney you're first, please come in," said Chris guiding her into the infirmary.
The place was cleaned, the beds and other furniture were removed, so those didn't appear on the screen. There was a chair with an old Laptop and a camera.
"Please sit here and enjoy," said Chris, who then exited the room.
Courtney felt a shiver run across her spine when she saw the person on the screen. She was a woman of middle age, with almond skin like herself, brunette hair in a bob cut at her shoulders, and cold black eyes. The woman was very attractive, but the frown lines across her mouth, forehead, and eyes made her look as if she was upset all the time. She was wearing an expensive white silk shirt.
"Mom," said Courtney in a neutral tone.
"Hmph, that's how you greet your own mother. I don't remember raising my daughter to be so rude," said the woman in a cold, emotionless tone.
"Good morning mother," said Courtney in the same cold tone. "This was unexpected."
Courtney's mother rolled her eyes. "They called me because you reached the final 3 in that lousy show, and they wanted me to support you. But let's hurry because I only have 5 minutes. So do your best to not embarrass yourself this time."
"You're calling to support me? That's rich, especially after what you told me when I dropped out from college," said Courtney. Her tone was neutral, but she was frowning.
"Please don't bring that stuff on international television. What did you expect me to do after you left college like that? To congratulate you? You keep disappointing me time and again making these foolish decisions," said the woman, her tone harsher. "And stop frowning like that. That's why everyone thinks you're neurotic."
"No, I didn't expect anything from you because you never cared about me," said Courtney, her voice trembling.
The woman frowned, her eyes twitching, "I can't believe your selfishness. I gave you food and a roof. Paid for the best education, the best teachers, and the best coaches, even allowed you to take those useless singing lessons. I raised you as the best of the best, and you say I didn't care about you? You're an ungrateful brat that even with all I did for her, ended up being a poor bitter loser."
"Yes, you paid for everything, but you were never there or showed me any love or affection. You just taught me to take advantage of others and to use everyone as a tool. I never knew how to make or cherish a friend. If I become a bitter loser it was because of YOU," said the Latin girl, glaring at the camera.
"Don't raise your voice at me! You don't need friends to be successful in life. You need to have a plan and work your way into the elite. You had the potential to become the youngest judge in the Supreme Court. But look at you now, making a tantrum because you never had a friend," shouted the woman, giving a death glare to her daughter.
Courtney stood up, knocking down the chair. "I raise my voice if I want to do it. And it's not a tantrum. YOU are the one who wanted me to be a judge and fool me into believing it was what I wanted. But I'm my own person, and I made my own decisions."
"You're my child. I know what's better for YOU. If it wasn't for me you would be a loser like those other girls your age," said the woman, her face red and contorted in anger.
"Of course, I must thank you. Thanks for making me a bitter, resentful, angry, and miserable woman like yourself! Thank you for making me a loner only focused on results! Thanks for making me selfish and vain just like you!" shouted Courtney crying.
"You ungrateful brat, how dar-"
"BUT I WILL NOT BE LIKE YOU!" shouted Courtney interrupting her. "I'll be my own person, I'll appreciate my own friends, and I may not be as successful as you, but I'll be happier than you ever will be. See you never," and she stormed out of the infirmary.
"Courtney! Courtney! Come back here! I haven't finished! Courtney!" the woman shouted, her eyes bulging and her voice so high pitched it was distorted by the mic. Steve discreetly disconnected the call.
Meanwhile, the Latin girl was crying, but with a big grin on her face.
Brick and Sammy were around her, the cheerleader giving her a handkerchief.
"Are you ok?" asked Sammy, obviously shocked by the situation.
"Better than ever," said Courtney, laughing. "I may have gone a little crazy, shouting at her like that. But I feel really liberated."
Chris looked at her with wide eyes and a big smile. "I was expecting drama, but wow, this was gold." He then turned to face another of the competitors. "Brick, you're next."
The cadet looked worried at her, but Courtney nodded. "I'm fine, and Sammy is with me. You're worrying too much for your enemy."
"We're no enemies. We're opponents," said Brick saluting, and entering the infirmary.
Brick sat in the chair, but the person on the screen wasn't who he expected.
It was an old man. His beard, buzz cut, and unibrow were already white as snow, with beige skin and wrinkles all over his face. He trembled involuntarily now and then, but his black eyes were cold and piercing. He was wearing a military uniform and smoking a big cigar.
The cadet looked at him with wide eyes. "Gramps? What are you doing there?"
"What kind of weak salute is that soldier. You should be greeting me with a big smile instead of asking pointless questions," said the man, chuckling.
"Good morning grandpa, It's a pleasure and a surprise to talk with you," said Brick, saluting.
The old man nodded. "Much better. I'm staying with your mother for a few days. So when they asked for a relative to talk with you, I decided to jump over the grenade."
"Are you staying with mom and dad? Why? Did something happen?" asked Brick in a worried tone.
"Yes, my worrywart grandson reached the merge of a stupid tv show. So I wanted to watch with his parents when he's eliminated," said the man blowing some smoke.
Brick looked sad at the screen. "That's not something nice to say."
"If you don't like me trash-talking you, you better make me eat my words and win the million," replied the man, making a big smile and showing his yellowed teeth.
"Yes sir, I'll do my best sir," said the cadet, saluting.
"I don't expect any less, *cough*cough*" answered the old man, who then began to cough.
Brick frowned worriedly. "That's why you should stop smoking. It's bad for your health."
"Don't lecture me, you tadpole," said the man, sucking his cigar again. "I'm just living overtime anyway, so at least let me live how I want with the time I have left."
"Gramps don't be so negative. I hope you can live until I get married," said Brick, smiling sadly.
The old man shook his head. "Hahaha, you want me to live more than 120 years? Fine I'll try to become the oldest man in the world just to attend your wedding."
"Don't be so mean. I hope to marry before you're 100," said Brick, twiddling his fingers.
"So you want me to die, eh? You want to marry soon, so I will go to your wedding and die like a dog after that?" complained the man in a faked hurt tone.
The cadet blanched. "What? No, of course, no," he then sighed and shook his head. "I just can't beat you."
"Hahaha, you're just too fun to tease," said the man. His laugh was loud and noisy. He then stopped and smiled. "Your parents are really proud. You're a big soft fool, but you have played the game really well and honored your own personal code, so keep going and prove me wrong, win the game."
"Yes sir, I'll make you proud," said Brick, saluting.
The old man saluted back. "You idiot, I'm already proud, now go and win your pass to that stupid fashion school or whatever you want to do now."
The call ended, and Brick dried his tears, smiling happily.
"Tsk, I hoped a little more drama," said Chris rolling his eyes. "Samey, it's your turn."
The twin nodded, leaving Brick and Courtney outside.
"Your grandfather seems like a unique person," said Courtney smiling.
"Hehehe, yes he is, I hope for to be as healthy as him at his age," said Brick. He then realized that Courtney was fine again.
In the infirmary, Sammy sat in the same place as the previous two campers. She was curious who would be the one calling her.
On the screen was a beautiful blond woman with blue eyes and porcelain skin. She was wearing a red shirt and her long hair falling over her shoulders.
"Hello Mom, how are you?" said Sammy, excited to see her mother.
"Hello Sammy. Oh my, are you ok? You seem so tired," said the woman, coming closer to the screen to look better at her daughter.
Sammy scratched her cheek. "Yes mom, I'm just excited for the competition."
"I'm so proud you reached the final 3. Dad and I were so nervous because you and Amy were in many dangerous situations. How is your sister?" asked Sammy's mom, her eyes focused on the screen and not on the camera.
"Amy is fine. You know how sturdy she is. So don't worry too much about it," said the younger twin, blushing a little.
The woman smiled proudly. "Also, we're so happy you at least talked about your differences. To be honest, I hated the idea of both of you returning to that sensationalist show that lives in causing drama among people. But if it helped you to reconcile with your sister, then it was worth it."
"Mom, you're so dramatic," said Sammy, smiling. "But I'm really happy we could talk. I think that after the show maybe we can rekindle and start anew."
"I can't believe how much you two have grown. My little princesses are already women," said the mother sobbing.
"Oh mom, It wasn't something that big, but I'm glad you're happy," said Sammy, used to her mother's personality.
"And you even got a good-looking boyfriend. I hope you can invite him to dinner after the show. Your father wants to have a serious conversation with him," said the woman chuckling.
Now Sammy flustered. "MOM! We just started dating, please if I invite him to dinner, which I didn't agree with yet, don't harass him."
"Oh dear, you can be so much fun. Of course we won't harass him," said the mother, covering her mouth while laughing.
The younger twin didn't reply, just squinted her eyes at her.
"By the way Sammy, I wanted to ask you something. When Amy was eliminated, why did you two-"
"MOM! I don't think this is a GOOD moment to talk about THAT. We'll tell you everything later," said Sammy, interrupting her mother.
The woman looked at her with wide eyes and then smiled, winking exaggeratedly. "Ohh, now I understand. You girls are so mischievous. But I'm glad you're friends again. It's a dream come true."
"I can't believe you're saying all those cheesy lines, mom," said Sammy blushing.
"Hehehe, one day you'll be a mom too and will also say these things," said the woman, smiling kindly. "And we're all supporting you, so go and win the game. I'm sure you can do it. You're kind, hard worker, and perseverent. I'm sure you can do it."
"Thanks mom," said Sammy, now she was tearing up. "See you soon."
"Bye my dear, say hello to your sister," said the woman waving.
Sammy stood up, smiling. She felt stronger than ever.
"What! What was that?" asked Chris, visibly upset, "where is the drama? The shouting? The struggle?"
"To be fair Mr. McLean, families usually are like that. I think Courtney's was one of many tragic exceptions," said Steve, frowning sadly.
Chris sighed but then looked at the camera, smiling. "And after those emotional calls, our campers are ready for the challenge. What will it be about? And who will be the unfortunate loser? Find out after the break here, in total drama Tyranny of the Masses."
Author Notes:
The challenge is about to start, and after a surprise call from their family, the final 3 are ready. What will be the challenge about? Who will go to the finale? And which one of them will end as the third place? Find the answers in the next episode of Total Drama Tyranny of the masses
The idea of the calls is a mix of what I planned and an idea Amit give me some weeks ago. I think it was a nice way of showing each contestant circumstances. Did you enjoy the family members? Which was your favorite call?
Immunity idols left: all used
D.A.M. Eliminations left: all used
Remaining players: Brick, Courtney, Sammy
Eliminated: Cameron, Jasmine, Max, Lindsay, Dawn, Jay, Lightning, Charlotte, Beth, Cody. Zoey, Dramaman, Shawn, Alejandro, Sky, Topher, Amy, Charlotte(r), Heather, Cody(r), Lilly, Duncan, Mike.
As always, thanks for reading and I hope you like it.