DISCLAIMER:
Hello one more time, episode 74 is released. There is only one question to answer, who will reach the goal first, Brick or Courtney? Find out right now here on Total Drama Tyranny of the Masses.
And if you enjoyed the story as much as I did, please remember to mark it as a favorite, or if you feel fancy, please leave a review with your thoughts about the story. This will help to improve this and future stories. And as usual, let's reply to the last week's reviews.
theswenuser: Ok, time to find out who wins and who loses the race. I hope you enjoy the episode.
amit. avrashmi: Hehehe, there was a reason behind the cliffhanger, but you will find out now. About my next story, I want to first finish this one. Then I will start worrying about the next one.
Harmony735: Well it was technically the last episode, so I'm glad you liked it.
Fernanda15fa: And here we're right now. I hope the episode was worth the wait.
L.O.M: Yes poor Lightning, I must say that one was a really polemic moment in the fic. Sadly the girls always win rule fail a lot when Courtney or Sammy are involved ;).
And as always, a GARGANTUAN shoutout and THANKS to Geofics, who helps me proofread the episodes. I can't believe it's been more than one year since you started helping me, you rock. 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.
Not to change
It was the final leg of the race. Brick was going down the road as fast as he could on the skateboard, with Courtney chasing after him on her bike.
The cadet was closer to the finish line, so he pushed his body forward, trying to pass the line before his opponent. But he hit a rock on the road and flew off the skateboard like a missile.
"And we have a winn-" Chris began to celebrate before something crashed against him.
The airborne Brick and Courtney both passed over the goal line simultaneously. The airborne cadet slammed into the host with the most.
Courtney stopped the bike as everyone waited expectantly for the results. The only sound that could be heard was Chris' groans and moans of pain.
The host stood up, composing himself and smiling. "And the first one to cross the goal and Total Drama Tyranny of the Masses winner is... Brick!" He then helped the soldier to stand up. "Congratulations on your victory, Soldier."
Brick looked around awed and then jumped, raising an arm. "Yahoo! I did it! I can't believe I did it."
The scene filled with cheers and applauses as everybody began to congratulate the cadet.
Jo pushed Heather, knocking her down, and mocked her. "Told you old Heather! That Brickhead really did it!
"Stupid Jo and stupid Brick," muttered Heather while glaring at her.
Meanwhile, everyone was celebrating the victory of the cadet.
"Well done dude, you were really awesome on that skateboard," said Jay, patting the soldier's back.
"Hehehe, thanks sir. I'm a little rusty but I used to skateboard a lot when I was in middle school," said Brick, making a big smile.
Jay elbowed him. "Also, when you receive the money, don't forget you owe the owner of the skateboard for your win."
"And also don't forget my great great uncle Larry invented skateboarding, when you receive your money, ya," said Staci raising a finger.
"That doesn't make any sense. Your fictional uncle didn't do anything for him to deserve part of the money," Jay glared at the compulsive liar.
Staci shrugged. "It makes the same sense as your claim. It seems neither you nor my uncle Larry deserves any money."
Everyone except the dejected Jay laughed with Staci. The girl smiled proudly as Chris interrupted them.
"Ok kids, follow me to the campfire for the last elimination ceremony," he then got on Chef's jeep, who drove him toward the campfire.
Then someone jumped up and hugged the cadet.
"I knew you could do it. I must be a seeder or something because I knew you would win," said Amy, closing her eyes and chuckling while hugging him.
"I think the word you wanted to use is seer," said Lilly in her low and polite tone.
The older twin shrugged. "It's the same thing. He won, and that's the only thing that really matters."
"Thanks, Amy, Lilly," Brick saluted the girls. "But I couldn't do it alone. I owe this win to many people who helped and supported me, including you, Cameron, and Alejandro."
"Don't be so modest. In the end, you were the one that beat all the challenges and reached the finale. And you did a great job," said a woman walking toward Brick
He saluted her with a conflicted expression, smiling apologetically. "Thanks, Courtney, it was an exciting competition. I can't believe I beat you."
"There you go again, don't downplay your victory. You're a great opponent, and if I had to lose against someone, I'm glad it was against you," Courtney offered her hand.
The cadet shook her hand. "Those words mean a lot to me, ma'am. It was also an honor to compete against you."
After a small silence, both began to walk with the rest of the campers toward the campfire. Any doubt the finalists had in their hearts faded away as they talked with each other.
Every contestant and peanut gallery member was at the campfire, sitting in the logs and stumps in front of Chris. The host was smiling and holding a suitcase.
Some people looked excited, like Jo, Sammy, or Cameron. While others seemed annoyed, like Heather, Jay, and Lightning. Next to Chris were Brick and Courtney.
"Why the long face Lightning? I thought you and Brock were on good terms?" asked Lindsay looking at her jock friend.
"Lightning was supporting the angry girl, and he hates when his team loses the game. Nothing personal, but this time, I was sure my team would get the cup," said Lightning, rolling his eyes.
Lindsay patted his back. "Don't worry, I'm sure next time your team will win."
"Linds, that Tailor guy you're dating is really lucky," said the jock, comforted by the blond girl's words.
"Hahaha, it's Tyler. Let me teach you some tricks to memorize his name," Lindsay smiled as she remembered her boyfriend.
At the front, Chris advanced and looked at Brick with an honest smile.
"After 6 weeks and one of the most wicked and eventful seasons ever, it's my pleasure to give this case containing ONE MILLION DOLLARS to the last camper standing, Brick!" said Chris in an excited tone.
Brick raised his arms victoriously as Courtney clapped next to him. Then Chris gave him the case, the cadet took it and saluted the host. The host decided to humor him and returned the salute
"And also this is for you, the ultimate symbol of survival in this island. The final marshmallow, congratulations," said Chris, giving Brick the small marshmallow.
Chef dried a tear. "Well done, soldier. I'm so proud of you."
"I just want to thank everyone. When I came back to the show, I didn't imagine I would end up winning. I wanted to test myself and see how far I could go while keeping my code and being honest with myself. And here I am. Now, I want to celebrate the occasion with a big party, and of course, everyone is invited," Brick said, the peanut gallery cheering and clapping at the cadet's words. "Only take it easy with the alcohol, as some contestants are underaged."
"Brick, you're still the same worrywart and killjoy as ever," shouted Anne Maria in a snarky tone.
"And we love you for that," added Zoey, who then stuck her tongue out at the tanned girl.
Then LeShawna, Rodney, and B surrounded the host.
"So babe, there is still one last thing we need to do before the show is over," said LeShawna with a sadistic smile as B took a vest of failure out of his jacket.
"What are you talking about?" said Chris in a worried tone as Rodney held his arms. "WAIT! What are you doing? This isn't funny. CHEF!"
In response Chef only chuckled at his misfortune. "Sorry Chris, I spent too much time in that damn tower. I'm simply too exhausted to help you."
"You can't do this, I can't get my hair wet!" protested the host, but the trio ignored him, put the vest on him, and raised him over their shoulder.
At the same time, Steve flew over them using the jetpack and hooking Chris's vest, pulling him into the lake.
"NOOOOgluglugl!" shouted the host before being submerged in the water and carried around by the chubby intern.
All the campers and Chef laughed at him until Chef realized the trio was now gazing at him.
"What, wait, noooooo!" shouted Chef, as the sister with a 'tude and her friends chased him with an extra-large vest of shame in their arms.
Courtney was sitting by a tree, away from everyone shouting at Chris.
"And what are you doing here alone, princess?"
She turned to look at him, "I just wanted to have some time alone. It was a long day."
"Alone excluding me?" asked Duncan, smirking.
"Maybe."
He then chuckled. "I was afraid you were down after what happened, but you seem fine. Want to grab a bite after the ceremony is over?"
"I remember you used to say you didn't eat with losers," replied Courtney, making a sad smile.
"Well, neither do you, but I asked you, didn't I?" replied the delinquent, waggling his eyebrows.
Courtney laughed. "Hahaha, it's impossible to win against you,"
"Should I take that as a yes?"
"Are you sure you want to go down this path again?" she asked, her tone turning into a somber one.
He raised an eyebrow. "What's with that cryptic question?"
"Aren't you afraid we will fall in love again? You know better than anyone how that ended the last time." She looked at the ground. "I already forgave you, isn't that enough?"
"Don't be silly," he replied, sitting at her side. "I know you already forgave me, so I'm doing this because I want to. And…"
"And?" she asked, awed by the sudden hesitation in Duncan's words.
He scratched the piercing in his nose. "And I've already fallen in love with you again, so it's a little late to be afraid."
"Are you sure? I may be a little selfish," she said, her voice trembling
"So? I am too."
"And stubborn."
"I know. We already dated before, so don't worry."
"And I may try to change you."
"No you won't."
"How can you be so sure?" asked Courtney, tears falling from her face and her disheveled hair falling over her face.
He took the hair off her face. "Because you said you won't do that again, and I believe you."
She kissed him on the lips. A short kiss reminiscent of the ones they had in their younger days.
"I accept. But this is the last time, if this doesn't work-"
Then Duncan was the one who kissed her, shutting her up mid-sentence.
"It'll work, I promise."
She smiled, the memory of the cheating came back to her mind, but after his apology and his promise, she decided to forget about it.
"What are you doing here? I hope you aren't hurting her," shouted someone who just appeared behind them.
"DUSK? What the hell are you doing here," shouted Duncan, startled by the sudden appearance of the aura reader.
She rolled her eyes. "It's Dawn, and we were looking for Courtney."
With her were Cody, Sierra, Sammy, Mike, and B.
"The boat is about to leave toward Mihtâtamowin Yikâwiskâhk, and we didn't want to leave you behind," said Cody, blushing and rubbing his head.
"Unless you want to stay together on an abandoned island," added Sierra, winking.
Duncan smirked and hugged Courtney by the waist. "Maybe we want that privacy. Right princess?"
"Don't make silly jokes, you Neanderthal," Courtney blushed and elbowed him lightly. "O-Of course we're going back to the resort with you. Let's go."
And in a swift movement, Courtney stood up and went away, flustering. Followed by Mike and B.
"That means it didn't work?" asked Sammy, looking at him with a sad frown.
Duncan just shrugged. "You better ask princess, cheerleader."
And they then went back toward the last boat. Total Drama's seventh season, Tyranny of the Masses, was over.
Three months later, Enin Buffet Restaurant, Toronto, Canada.
The place was a popular familiar restaurant in downtown Toronto. The single-story brick building was filled with tables and cabinets. In the middle of the restaurant, 6 tables were put together with 13 chairs around them.
Six people were already sitting at the table while waiting for the rest of the guests. All were young adults, about 18 years old. 3 women and 3 men.
"My great, great, great, great, great, great, great ancestor Seth invented reunions. Before that, people just hung out alone, so sad," said Staci. She was wearing a pink dress and her ribbon.
"You're as annoying as ever, you know," said Scott in a snarky tone. He wore a brown leather jacket, a white tank top, and jeans. He also had a goatee.
Sam made a sad smile. He was wearing blue overalls and a red long-sleeved shirt. "Oh, c'mon man. We don't meet that often. There's no need to be a jerk."
"Someone became completely full of himself after appearing in that reality show Remainder, right?" said Anne Maria, who was wearing a white tank top and white pants.
"Lightning is still shocked you won! He was sure you would lose like always," said Lightning, who was wearing black pants and a black hoodie with his name on the back.
The redhead farmer's face beamed. "What can I say? I lost during Total Drama due to some bad luck."
"Both times?" asked Dakota, who was wearing a pink overall with a yellow long-sleeved shirt. "I think you got totally lucky, and that's why you won that show."
"You're only envious I'm more fam… Staci, are you eating my fries?" Scott glared at the compulsive liar.
"It's revenge for insulting me," said the chubby girl, stealing another fry. "Also look over there. It's Brick."
Scott pulled his tray out of her reach. "I said stop, and that's the oldest trick in the book."
"I thought the oldest trick in the book was blaming others for your errors," said a girl in a soft voice, startling Scott.
"DAMN IT DAWN! When will you stop appearing like that?" asked Scott, throwing the tray into the air. The aura whisper was wearing a long checkered skirt and a blue sweater with a green shirt under it.
"When will you stop reacting like that?" replied Dawn chuckling.
B and Brick, who arrived with her, caught the tray and the food before it touched the ground. B was wearing his classic coat but with jeans and a black shirt. While Brick was wearing dark green pants, a white shirt, and a pink sweater wrapped around his neck.
"Nice reflexes, soldier," said Brick, giving a high five to the silent man. "And hello, everyone."
"Hahaha, nice one saving my fries Brick, and you too big man," said Scott, smirking. "Also, congratulations on winning that million."
Brick sat in front of Scott and next to Lightning. "Thanks, congratulations to you too for your victory."
"It was easy. After dealing with you guys winning that game was like shooting sitting ducks," Scott mimicked shooting an animal. "If any of you want to make some easy money, just try that reality show."
"Why are all your analogies or expressions about hurting animals?" said Dawn, shaking her head.
He just shrugged, "because I was raised on a farm, duh? Anyway, I wanted to give you this. Consider it a token of my appreciation."
Scott gave Dawn a small piece of paper which made her eyes go wide while all the others looked at them with concerned gazes.
"Why are you grateful to her? I thought you hated each other," asked Sam, scratching his head.
"Ya, I'm so perplexed that I can't think of any of my awesome relatives who were in a similar situation," Staci covered her mouth, looking at him with wide eyes.
"It's nothing important. She just helped me a little while I was recovering from my wounds after our season, that's all," replied Scott, shrugging.
Nobody knew about that except B and Brick. The silent man knew because Dawn told him and the cadet because he also visited the farm boy while he was recovering.
"I can't believe it, you donated 100,000 dollars to the WFF. Scott, that was so kind of you. I'm sure the universe will compensate you," said Dawn, visibly moved.
"Oh my gosh! I didn't know the small gal liked wrestling so much. I honestly think she would prefer horse racing or any other animal-related sport," said Anne Maria, raising an eyebrow.
B facepalmed, but before he could reply to Anne Marie's comment, someone interrupted him.
"It's not like that tanned girl. The wrestling association is the WWF, the WFF is something animal-related, sha-fact!" said Lightning, posing.
"Wow Lightning, you're right," said Dakota, as awed as everyone else.
Anne Maria's jaw dropped. "I can't believe Lightning is smarter than me. I need to reconsider all my life decisions." After a brief moment, she shrugged. "Ok, reconsidered, I'm too gorgeous to change."
Everyone laughed or chuckled at her joke (because it was a joke, right?) and then continued with their conversations.
"Mike, Cameron, and Zoey are late. I hope nothing happened," said Sam looking concerned at his Nintendo watch.
"They're only 15 minutes late. Maybe they're in a traffic jam?" Brick scratched his head. "And Jo's also missing."
"Who did you say is missing?" said the jockette in a loud voice. She was wearing blue jeans and a green hoodie, with her hair slicked back.
Most of the presents waved at her, except Anne Maria, who rolled her eyes, and Scott, who just nodded.
The cadet saluted her. "We were just talking about those who didn't arrive, but I'm happy you could make it, Jo. Also, your hair looks great."
"I already know that, captain obvious," replied the jockette, blushing. "So only the three stooges are missing?"
"Please don't be rude just because you also want to have friends like them. I'm sure if you were more open towards other people you would also find friends," said Dawn gazing fiercely at her.
Staci nodded, "and also none of those three are exactly Moe material. They're more like the Marx brothers."
Sam, Dakota, B, and Jo chuckled at the joke, while the other people ignored who was Moe or didn't find it amusing.
"You're totally right, chatterbox. I can't believe it, but you can make fun jokes sometimes," said Jo, smirking.
"Thanks?" replied Staci, not sure if she was being insulted or praised.
B then looked at something in the window and pointed at it, but everyone ignored him.
"Well, I'm hungry, so if they don't arrive in 5 minutes, I'll go and start ordering my food," Scott rubbed his stomach frowning.
Jo made a nasty smile. "What happened goatboy, did your Papi forget to feed you?"
"Hahaha, so funny Jo. Why don't you forget about being a weightlifter and try to be a comedian?" replied Scott in a snarky tone.
"Jo doesn't plan to be a weightlifter. She wants to become a professional trainer," said Brick before the jockette could answer.
She looked at him awed. "That's right Brickhead, I can't believe you remembered."
"Of course I remembered. You were one of my finest rivals. Even if our views are different, I always respect you and pay attention to what you say," replied Brick in a neutral tone, nodding.
Jo didn't know what to say.
"So Brick, talking about Jo, there was something I wanted to-" Dakota looked with interest at the cadet before being interrupted by some people arriving at the table.
"Sorry we're late. There was traffic congestion," said Cameron, sweating. He was wearing black shorts, a white shirt, and a red necktie with some white numbers.
Zoey was behind him, holding Mik's arm. She was wearing a black skirt with a red shirt and a black beret. While Mik was wearing denim shorts with a white t-shirt and the Drama Brothers printed on the front. He had his hair in a buzz cut with a lock over his forehead.
"WOW! Mike, you have a new look! You look so hot," said Anne Maria, greeting the former multiple Mike.
"Hello Anne, thank you. And hello everyone," Mike waved at the table.
Zoey went and sat with Dawn and Dakota. "Kota! You and Sam are wearing matching clothes! You look so cute!"
"Totally! Sam wanted to use that outfit for the reunion, so I surprised him and bought a matching one. Do you really think it's cute?" Dakota's face was beaming.
"Of course, pink is really your color, and the shirt matches your hair. Next time, Mik and I will also wear matching clothes," said Zoey in an excited tone.
Scott stood up and walked toward Cameron, giving him a crushing hug.
"Hello Cam, how are you little rascal?" said Scott in a weird joyful tone.
"Hello Scott, *ugh* I'm also elated to meet you but you are crushing me," said Cameron while trying to breathe.
Scott released him and patted his shoulder. "Man you're as feeble as a kitchen rat. You should come to my farm sometime. A week working the earth will turn you into a man."
"Thanks, but I'm working out at my own pace. I can now lift 60 pounds at the gym. With my legs," said Cameron proudly.
B patted the brainiac man while Scott decided to stay silent, chuckling to himself.
After greeting everyone, the second generation decided to start getting their food. In the buffet's queue, Mike, Sam and Lightning were talking while choosing their food.
"And After finishing Marto Galaxy 2, I'm thinking of getting Mars Effect 2. I just hope it's as good as the first one, ehehe," said Sam while making a big smile. Mik listened to him with interest while Lightning rolled his eyes in annoyance.
"Lightning can't believe you waste so much time in games. If you put that effort into a sport instead, you would be a great athlete, not as good as Lightning, but a good one," said Lightning flexing his arm.
Sam looked at him with an offended expression. "HEY! video games are great, and in the future, we'll have video game leagues to play in, and we'll get the recognition we deserve. The time for video game sports is coming." After his passionate discourse, Sam rubbed his neck while chuckling. "Ehehe, and also, I don't play as much as I used because I prefer to spend my time with Dakota."
"You make a really nice couple, Sam," said Mik, smiling wide while putting some apples on his tray.
"Thanks Mike," Sam blushed while taking 3 flans.
Lightning put some yogurt on his tray. "By the way, skinny guy, Lightning likes your haircut. It looks better now because it looks more like Lightning's hair.
"Thanks," Mik pulled the lock on his forehead. "I kept using my hair in spikes because I was afraid of being less Mike if I changed it. But I decided to stop being afraid and just being me, so I went and got the hairstyle I always wanted."
"And that's what you should do. Real Men must go for what they want without hesitation," said the jock, giving him a strong slap on the back that almost made him drop his tray.
Mik made a pained expression but forced a smile. "Thanks man, I will think about it."
After a little while everyone was eating at the table. The atmosphere was noisy and enjoyable. Yes, not all of them were friends, but at least all of them decided to drop any old quarrels and just enjoy the food and the weird company.
"It's like a small miracle, isn't it?" said Zoey in a loud tone. "Usually, the 13 of us would never meet, being from different cities and all that. But somehow, fate made us meet in the same reality show, and here we're now, eating together. I mean, what are the odds?"
"And of course, here comes Zoey to make her childish comment. If being in Total drama is a miracle, I don't want to know what a curse is," said Scott in a snarky tone while eating a hamburger.
Dawn glared at him. "Do you always have to be so negative? That's why you attract negative karma."
"Sorry Ma, I'll try to be more positive," the farmer nodded, while Dawn nodded, satisfied with his answer.
B raised his hand and was about to talk when someone interrupted him.
"I agree with Zoey. I'm honored to be part of the show and meet all of you," said Brick, saluting.
Jo rolled her eyes. "Of course you're happy Brickhead. You won a million damn dollars."
"Hehehe, I was already honored after meeting all of you in the fourth season," the cadet blushed. "Also, I wanted to know now that the summer is over and we finished high school, what is everyone planning to do? I will go first," he cleared his throat. "I plan to continue with the fashion school and start making some designs to open a store in the future."
"Eh? Why do you need to wait? Can't you just open it with all that money you won?" asked Anne Maria, raising an eyebrow.
Brick rubbed his head, blushing more than ever. "I don't feel confident to open it with my skills, and Amy told me I didn't need to rush."
"Amy? Like in the mean twin Amy?" asked Sam, at least half of the table looked at him with a shocked expression. Except for Mik, Dawn, and Scott.
"Are you still in contact with that brat?" asked Jo, glaring at him.
The cadet nodded, trying to dissimulate his embarrassment. "Affirmative, we're friends and getting to know each other better."
"Awwww! That's so cute. I hope you're happy together," said Dakota, looking quite excited. "I'll go back to high school and end the 2 years I missed. I want to have at least my high school diploma and attend my graduation prom before starting my own reality show."
"That's true, my great, great, great, great aunt Ivy invented proms. Before that, school ended with a traditional balloon fight, which was a lot more boring than it sounds, ya," Staci nodded, folding her arms.
"And you need to finish high school for that?" asked Scott, ignoring the chubby girl.
Dakota giggled. "I don't want to be like TMZed when I'm famous because I didn't finish high school. I want my gossip to be more glamorous."
"I totally understand that, girl," said Anne Maria, cleaning her mouth after eating some pasta salad. "I will start studying hairstyling at the Cosmetology School in New Jersey. After a little more than a year I can get my official hairstylist license."
Mik looked at her with wide eyes. "So you're moving to the States?"
"Yes, I'll move in with my uncles in January," said the tanned girl winking. "But it'll only be for a year. And if you want to visit me, I can let you stay in my room."
"Maybe we'll visit you, but we'll stay at a motel, THANK YOU," Zoey replied before Mik could.
The tanned girl glared at Zoey, but noticing the storm that was coming, Sam interrupted them. "EHEHE, The states, that's awesome. I'm planning on studying video game design, so I'm preparing the tests for Max the Mutt and Seneca College. I just hope I can pass at least one of those."
"Don't worry Sam, you're smart. No one can remember so many video game facts like you." Staci nodded, giving thumbs up to the gamer.
"Staci is right. I'm sure if you put your mind into it you'll totally ace them," added Dakota, giving a big hug to her boyfriend.
Staci raised a finger, "And even if you fail don't worry. My granduncle Allan used to design videogames before consoles were invented ya. And he wasn't a videogame expert, just an electrical engineering graduate. So if he could do it, you can do it too."
"Thanks?" Sam scratched his curly hair. That wasn't exactly the motivation he was looking for.
Dawn raised a hand, talking in her low and charming voice. "Then it's my turn. I already got a scholarship to study plant biosystems at the University of Alberta."
B nodded, already knowing, but before he could talk about it, he was interrupted.
"What? Are you going to college?" asked Mik, as shocked as almost every person at the table.
"Yes, why are you so surprised? All of us just finished high school. It's not that weird some of us attend college," Dawn tilted her head.
Lightning looked at her with a confused expression. "Lightning can't lie, creepy girl. You seem like the kind of gal who would open a weird coffee shop and serve creepy teas, no offense."
"Hehehe, non taken," replied the aura reader, making a charming smile. "I hear that a lot, but I believe that studying is the best way I can use my gifts to help save mother Earth. Also, I don't want to do business with my aura reading. It just feels wrong."
"That's awesome!" said Mik, making a big grin that showed the gap between his teeth. "I will move to Toronto and begin to look at some acting schools."
"Oh, you want to become an actor? That's awesome! I have many relatives working in the industry. If you need some recommendations or tips, I can put you in contact with them," Staci winked and grinned. "But you will need to give me an autograph once you are famous, ya."
Mik rubbed his arm. "Thanks, Staci, but I'm not sure if I want to be an actor, so I want to visit some schools first and see what they do before making a decision."
"But to do that you don't need to move to Toronto," replied Scott, frowning at the former multiple Mike. "Maybe Alberta is not as fancy as Vancouver or the T, but we surely have art colleges for people who want to be scammed like you."
"I know, but that way I can also be closer to Zoey," Mik looked with dreamy eyes at Zoey.
Zoey blushed, looking back at him. "Oh Mik, I'm so happy to have you closer. We can go on dates, and my mother will be delighted if you come to dinner more often."
"Ugh, this much sweetness makes me nauseous," said Scott, rolling his eyes. B hit him in the chest with a bucket.
"Ouch, thanks B, you're always so considerate," added the redhead, as the silent man made a smug smile.
Cameron adjusted his glasses. "Then it's my turn. I'll be studying biology at the University of Toronto. It's a dream come true."
"Wow, beansprout is studying college. That's so shocking. I would never imagine it," said Jo in a snarky tone.
"No? I think with his smarts, it was quite the obvious choice," said Brick, not getting the sarcasm. Jo only rolled her eyes, smirking.
Cameron raised his arms. "I know, but that isn't the more exciting part. I will be living with Mik! I'll stop living with my mother next week and move to our own bachelor apartment."
There were some cheers among the campers, congratulating the ex-bubble boy.
"It was about time, just call me so we can organize a housewarming party," Anne Maria winked and then adjusted her hair.
"YEAH! I can bring some consoles so we can have a video game party, WOOHOOO!" shouted Sam, raising both arms.
The tanned girl gave him a dirty look. "That's not the kind of party you want for a housewarming party. Sigh, there is so much I have to teach all of you."
As everyone chuckled, B took out of his coat a mechanical spider that began to walk across the table, taking the empty plates and putting them into a pile in the center.
"Wow, it's so quick and pretty. You made it?" asked Zoey looking at the small drone.
B nodded and winked. He was about to take a newspaper clip from his coat when Cameron shouted (ok, he made a loud sound, which is what Cameron called shouting.)
"Wait a minute, that's the new model of Shony's domestic robot. It doesn't have a commercial name, but on the web it's called Arachne," Cameron watched it, not hiding his amusement.
The silent man left the newspaper in his coat and nodded.
"But that doesn't make sense," added Sam, rubbing his chin. "unless B was hired by Shony."
The silent man snapped his fingers, giving Sam some finger guns, and nodded. Everyone gasped as the silent genius cleaned his fingers against his coat.
"So B is the first one of us who got a job?" asked Zoey, surprised.
"Hey! I worked as a waitress at my uncle's pizzeria many summers," said Anne Maria, frowning.
Dakota also frowned. "And I was a famous wrestler until my daddy found a cure for my mutation."
"And I have been working on my family farm since I could walk and hold a hoe," said Scott, folding his arms together.
"I mean, he's the first to get a job for a big international company with a formal contract," Zoey blushed. Wow, she didn't have an idea of how many of the others were already working.
And with those words, everyone nodded and agreed that B was the first one with a job for a big company.
"Ok, talking about surprises, I'll go to the college and study business and agriculture," Scott pressed his lips together, and looked a little ashamed at the floor.
"What? You're gonna go to college?" asked Jo, laughing. "Don't you need to be, I don't know, smart to go to college?"
"Hahaha, you're so funny Jo," answered the farmer, glaring at her. "I wasn't sure, but Papi insisted, and I already passed the application process. And I already paid for it, so why not?"
"Wow, that was unexpected," said Dakota smiling.
"Totally, I'm glad you are trying to broaden your horizons, soldier," Brick saluted. "But I think you didn't mention which university you're attending."
Dawn was taking a sip of her water and replied absentminded. "University of Alberta."
Everyone gasped and looked at her with wide eyes. She blushed and began to twiddle with her fingers. "I-I just saw it in his aura, yes…"
"C'mon Dawn! You can't read my aura just like that," said Scott in a weird and fake tone.
There was an awkward silence at the table, with some whispers and suspicious gazes here and there.
But lucky for them, Staci broke the silence. "Well, I have decided to try to live the dream and try to survive as a blogger and youtuber."
"Really? Which one of your relatives invented youtube?" asked Scott in a snarky tone.
"Eh? No, my family didn't have anything to do with Youtube. That's why I'm becoming a youtuber. To succeed in an area without the help of my family," said the compulsive liar.
Dakota looked at her, clapping. "Oh, that sounds like fun. If you need a special guest on your channel, just give me a call."
"And me, I can give you some exclusive preview of my first designs," said Brick, his eyes sparkling.
"I will, thank you. I really mean it," Staci smiled, visibly moved. "So far, I'm making a special about government conspiracies with Shawn and Sierra's help, but I want to diversify my content. By the way, Sierra is my senior in life. I just hope to be a blogger as good as her someday, Ya."
"Well, I will give you something to put in your boring blogs, blabbermouth," Jo pointed at herself with a fierce expression. "I'm competing in the new season of Remainder."
Some people gasped, and others clapped.
"That's great, go and get them Jo!" said Brick in an enthusiastic tone.
"That show isn't the same on which Scott just won a million dollars from, is it?" asked Anne Maria, not sure if she wanted to congratulate the jockette.
Jo nodded, folding her arms. "Exactly Tanned Maria, the same. If the Goatboy can win it, so can I. Just wait. I'll be the next millionaire on this table."
"Just don't be overconfident, and you will be fine," said Scott, who was now peeling an apple. "Half of the game is to go under the radar, so try to keep your anger in check."
"I already said I know what to do, so don't patronize me just because you won a season," Jo, gave a death glare at the farmer. But after a moment she relaxed and smiled. "But thinking twice, maybe I'm overconfident. Hey Scott, do you mind giving me your phone number so we can talk about the show later?"
The farmer shrugged. "I don't mind. I'll send you my consultation fees later."
"Can I pay you in pain and blood?" asked Jo, cracking her knuckles.
"But because we are friends, I can give you some tips for free," said Scott, gulping.
Lightning stood up, posing while flexing his muscles. "Ok, the best for last."
"I also haven't said what I'll be doing," said Zoey in a timid voice.
"Sorry Zoey, you were too slow for the Lightning," replied the jock, talking louder. "Lightning will be studying at Virginia Polytechnic Institute."
"Wow, really soldier, congratulations," Brick saluted him.
"I can't believe jockstrap can go to college. There must be something wrong with that place," said Jo, rolling her eyes.
Cameron patted the jock back. "Congratulations, and what are you studying?"
"Lightning wanted to study a major in sha-finance. But Pops said Lightning should think about it, so I'm studying a year on Undecided university studies," Lightning flexed his arms, posing. "The credits can be transferred, and I can play in the football team, so it's all advantages."
"Except that you need to pay for an extra year in college," said Sam, looking worried at Lightning.
But the Jock smile just became wider. "Don't worry, I'm with a scholarship, and after winning some games, they will surely give me a better scholarship. Just wait and see. Sha-bam."
"Wow, you really thought about it," Anne Marie blinked a couple of times, as shocked as everyone.
"Yes, Since when did you start thinking? I mean, you were never the brightest Lighting in the sky," asked Scott, nodding.
Lightning just shrugged. "Lightning is really smart. It's just like he doesn't sha-waste time thinking about useless things."
B chuckled and was about to say something when he was interrupted.
"Congratulations Lighting, I'm sure you will be ok," said Zoey smiling. "Well, even if it's not as impressive. I will be helping until the new year in a small daycare in my neighborhood. Miss Barbara had an accident and broke a leg, and she needs someone to help watch the kids during recess, and it's a good way to learn if I can work with kids."
B clapped, and then other presents began to clap, while some like Scott and Anne Maria just watched her with annoyed expressions.
"But didn't you want to be a teacher?" asked Staci, raising an eyebrow. "It's in your profile, and you seemed quite confident about it, ya."
"I'm not sure of what profile you are talking about, but yes, I want to be a teacher, but I'm not completely sure," said Zoey, making an awkward smile. "And my parents said there was no need to rush, so I decided to use this as a chance to work with children and see for myself if it's what I want to do."
Mik held her hands. "That's awesome Zoey, I'm sure you will find out. And don't worry, I'll support you regardless of what you decide."
"Oh Mik, thanks, your words make me so happy," said Zoey, looking him in the eyes. Then both began to get closer and closer.
"Oh please, get a room," Jo rolled her eyes.
Dakota glared at her. "Oh, c'mon Jo, don't interrupt them just when they are getting to the best part."
"That's why I told everyone that we shouldn't let them sit together ya," added Staci.
Everyone laughed while Zoey and Mik got away from each other, looking embarrassed at the floor.
The dinner continued without any issue, with everyone having a good time.
"Ok, we need to go now," said Dakota looking at her phone. "When will we meet again?"
"I think during Cam and Mik's housewarming party, what do you think, guys?" said Anne Maria, giving Mik and Cameron a flirty look.
Cam blushed, but the former spiky-haired guy seemed to ignore it. "No problem. We will mail you when we have a date. It should be in 2 or 3 weeks."
"Lightning will probably be in the states, but he will come 1 weekend each month, so if you want to have a fun party, let's do it in a day Lightning can strike at your place," said Lightning posing.
"We will try. If not, we can meet in December when everyone has holidays," said Zoey, nodding.
Dakota nodded, "Then it's settled. A.M., send me a message when we have a date please."
"Don't worry Kota, I will work with these guys and chose the best date," said the tanned girl giving her a hug.
Sam stood up, scratching his head. "So will everyone pay for their own meal, or will we split it?"
B was about to talk, but instead gave a hard slap to Scott's back.
Everyone laughed, Jo being one of the loudest. "The fat mime is right. Scott and Brickhead should pay. Don't be stingy, you're the new millionaires in the group."
"Sounds fine, I'll pay. What do you say, soldier, help me with half of the receipt?" said Brick, looking at Scott.
"What? Of course not, the reason why rich people are rich is that they don't waste money on things like this," replied Scott in an upset tone.
Dawn glared at him. "C'mon Scott, the universe will repay your generosity twofold."
"Ok, I'll do it just to ensure the universe doesn't throw an anvil at my head or something," said Scott, taking out his wallet.
After all was said and done, everyone began to leave, thanking Scott and Brick for the meal. After some time, only the trio and Brick remained.
"Well let's go," said Mik, looking at his phone. "I promised Zoey's parents to take her home before it got too late."
"Cameron, before you go, I need to have some words with you," Brick piped up as everyone was leaving the restaurant.
Zoey winked and waved. "Ok, see you later Brick. Cam, we'll wait for you in the car."
"Ciao Brick," said Mik, also leaving.
Once they went away, Brick took a small envelope and gave it to Cameron.
Cameron looked at the envelope with wide eyes. It was full of money.
"What is this?" asked the brainiac, shocked with the revelation.
"It's your share of the prize, 100,000 dollars. $77,000 is the money you give me to study in the fashion school, and the rest is for your help during the final," said Brick, offering him his hand. "Thanks for helping me win the show."
The brainiac shook his hand but was frowning. "Don't worry about it, Brick. It was my pleasure to help you. But I don't need the money, I-"
"Please, it's a token of my gratitude. I also gave some to Alejandro. Just accept it and use it to help you with your studies and your new house," Brick put a hand over the envelope and pushed it toward Cameron.
"I accept it for now, but I'll pay you someday."
"Thanks soldier," Brick saluted.
"You're welcome, sir," replied Cam saluting. He then chuckled, "Hehehe, I'm astonished. You have the same attitude and behavior as when we first met in the mutant maggots."
"It's something wrong with that?" asked Brick, looking at the ground with a frown.
Cameron shook his head. "No, in fact, you're the only one of my friends I hope never changes. Your positive attitude and belief in your principles is an inspiration for me."
"Hehehe, it's not that great. I just try to live by my code."
"And that's not an easy task. I really admire you for that kind of strength. I also hope to live being loyal to my own code."
"And I'm sure you will my friend. And if you need someone to talk about it, just call me."
Cameron smiled and nodded. "I will Brick, thanks." He then turned toward the parking lot. "Now let's go. I don't want to make Zoey and Mike wait too much."
"Of course not. I'll go with you. My car is parked in the area," Brick clapped Cam on the back (almost knocking him down).
Brick walked with Cameron. He was happy with how things were. In the end, he won, but more importantly, he did his best without breaking his code. All his friends and allies told him to forget about it, and it made things more difficult sometimes, but it was worth it. Brick learned growing up isn't always about changing. Sometimes it's just about believing in the decisions you make.
Author Notes:
And this is what could have happened if Brick won the season, but this is the alternate ending. I hope you enjoy it. For those who like the meal don't worry, the revengers also eat together in the other ending. But that's another story. Next week I will publish the canon ending and the final chapter of the story.
The idea of publishing the alternate ending first came from my friend and fellow author Tempokeep, who also used it in some of his stories, which I considered quite clever. I don't know if he was the first one to use it, but he's the one I used as inspiration.
And no more surprises, next week I will publish the original ending and is the last chapter of the story, thanks for joining me on this long journey.
Tyranny of the masses
Winner: Courtney (alternate: Brick)
Runner-up: Brick (alternate: Courtney)
Ranking: Sammy, Mike, Duncan, Lilly, Cody, Heather, Charlotte, Amy, Topher, Sky, Alejandro, Shawn, Dramaman, Zoey, Beth, Lightning, Jay, Dawn, Lindsay, Max, Jasmine and Cameron.
As always, thanks for reading and I hope you like it.