And here comes Episode 6! Don't have a lot to say in this one, but I hate not having notes in the beginning of a chapter. Feels tacky.
The camera once again opened on Monokuma and Monomi, sitting in their usual positions at the elimination chamber.
"Hello and welcome to Total Drama Island. I'm Monokuma," the host greeted.
"And I'm- urg, Monomi..." Monomi said, struggling against her constraints.
Monokuma laughed at her misfortune before beginning the recap. "Last time, the Berserker Bears seemed to gain a new lease in the game with Byakuya gone, Gundham and Kiyotaka in particular seem hell-bent on trying to fit in despite their negative first impressions. Boring!"
"Of course, you'd think so," Monomi muttered. "On the Rabbits' side, Leon and Makoto had a brief falling out over Leon's teasing Makoto's bed-wetting problem. But with some help from Mukuro, they made up! How wonderful!"
"How anti-climactic," Monokuma sneered. "Speaking of the Rabbits, Celestia tried branching out her alliance to include Teruteru and Kyoko, only for Kyoko to out him as the real panty thief instead! The look on her face! Bwahahahahahahaha!"
"The challenge last time was a challenge show a d in a landslide, the Berserker Bears won!" Monomi continued.
Monokuma regained his composure before adding, "And the Rabbits voted out Teruteru for being a thief and a liar! Except Ibuki, because she apparently doesn't realize what show she's on."
Monomi glared at him before asking, "Now, what's Celeste to do now that her alliance has been crippled?"
"Can Taka finally learn to chill out?" Monokuma added.
"And just what challenge do we have in store this time?" Monomi continued.
"Tune in tonight to find out on Total... Drama... Island!" Monokuma finished.
The camera faded out for the title sequence and faded back in afterwards. After a few establishing shots around Jabberwock Park, it focused on Akane and Nekomaru, who were doing laps around the statue.
"Keep it up! We're almost done!" Nekomaru shouted to his student, who nodded in return. After a few more minutes of running, they stopped to catch their breath.
"Alright, take five," Nekomaru said, wiping his face with his towel.
Akane breathed deeply and took a swig of her water bottle. "Phew... Whaddya got next for me, Coach?" she asked.
"Do a hundred push-ups and we'll call it a session." Akane nodded and after taking another sip of her water went right to work.
A few push-ups in, she called Nekomaru's name. He turned to her and she asked, "So, what's your story?"
"My what?" Nekomaru asked.
"Ya know, what made you come out here?"
Nekomaru took a second to think over an answer. "Well, there's this guy I used to know. Sometimes, we'd watch these kinds of shows when there wasn't any sports on."
"Cool," Akane said, still at her push-ups.
"What about you?" Nekomaru asked. "Why did you sign up?"
"Money," she bluntly responded.
"That's it?" Nekomaru asked, surprised with her openness on the subject.
"Hey, "it" could go a long way putting food on the table," Akane sharply replied, jumping up from her position. "I've got a family at home that could really use the dough, figuritvly and literally."
Nekomaru to his credit looked ashamed. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"
"It's fine," Akane shrugged. "It sucks, but it's the way it is."
"It shouldn't be," Nekomaru muttered.
Not properly hearing him, Akane asked if he said something. He replied in the negative.
"Oh, and one last thing?" Akane asked as they walked back to the hotel. "Keep it to yourself." Nekomaru didn't need an explanation of what she meant.
Akane: Let's set the record straight: I am not a fucking charity case, alright? I honestly debated whether or not I should even have come out here. I've got a lot of brothers and sisters back home who depend on me and I'll do anything to make sure they don't have to do what I've had to to survive.
Nekomaru: It's easy to forget that we're all here for the money in the end. (sighs) Well, not the ones who came on a whim, at least.
Kyoko had just left her cabin and was on her way to breakfast when she was pulled aside by somebody.
"Ah, Kyoko, would you have a minute?" Celestia asked in far-too-polite tone.
"Not really," she cool responded before trying to leave. Celestia dug her nails into Kyoko's shoulder in response.
"Non. Non. Non. Really, I won't waste your time. I just want to know what possessed you to STAB ME IN THE BACK LIKE THAT!?" Celestia's accent started to drop as she yelled intensely. But despite her aggressiveness, Kyoko did not falter. Instead she removed Celestia's hand from her shoulder and looked her in the eye.
"I don't know what's more amusing," she asked, "your accent slipping or your delusions that I had any plans to work with you?"
"Amusing!?" Celestia scowled. "I have you a chance to be in the majority! I would have even let you bring in that low-rank boyfriend of yours, but you threw it away! And for what?"
Kyoko's eyes narrowed. "Tell me something, did you know that Teruteru framed Hiro when you accepted him into your fold?"
Celestia's eye twiched. "I... had a suspicion," she admitted.
"But that didn't stop you, did it? As long as it didn't affect you and got rid of someone you disliked, you'd let him do it again, wouldn't you?"
"Now you listen here-"
"No, you listen," Kyoko glared harshly. "I've had my fill of humoring you, so I'll say it clearly: I refuse to align myself with people who sink as low as that or worse, let it happen to advance their own agenda. You can play the game however you like, I really can't stop you. But never try and drag me into it again."
Kyoko walked off as if the conversation never happened, leaving Celestia to stew in her anger.
Kyoko: I am aware that lying, cheating and stealing is how these types of games are played. I'm very certain I'll have even done my share of it by the time this game ends. But I won't sink to that level. Ever.
Celestia: (looks over her fingerguard) Before the season is out, I will have my revenge. Nobody double-crosses Celestia Ludenberg and gets away with it. (her face darkes) Nobody.
Kiyotaka found Mondo polishing his bike. The biker seemed rather into it, so he thought of leaving when he saw Chihiro walk up to him.
"Good morning, Mondo," she greeted him cheerfully, or as cheerfully as Chihiro could be at any rate.
"Yo," he nodded, still looking over the bike.
"Um, not to get rude, but you do know-?"
"Taka's been stalking me like that one creepy ex of mine? 'Course."
"I am not "stalking" as you put it," Kiyotaka insisted.
"Sure fuckin' looks like it," Mondo glared. "You need somethin'?"
"As a matter of fact..." Kiyotaka looked uncertain, but an encouraging nod from Chihiro convinced him. "Chihiro told me you have her some advice on how to work better for the team."
"Oh, how the plot thickens," laughed Mondo. "You've been nothing but an asshole to me since minute fucking one." Chihiro gave him a pleading look, causing him to amend with, "Why should I help you?"
"I understand that you and I have... had our differences up until now," Kiyotaka admitted. "But contrary to what you may think, I do not hate you. If I did, I wouldn't be here right now. I just... I want to do my part for the team. You understand at least that much, don't you?"
Mondo sighed. "Fuck my life... Alright, listen up. It's really not that difficult, just apply yourself more. Shit, last challenge was the perfect time for both of ya, so what gives?"
"My AI isn't allowed to be shown to unclassified people," Chihiro admitted. "NDAs and all that stuff."
"And doing complex algebra is hardly riveting material," Kiyotaka sighed.
"Plus, we don't know what the challenges are beforehand, so it's hard to tell if it'll suit our skills or not," added Chihiro. "It boils down to simple luck."
Mondo shrugged. "That's true, but that shouldn't fuckin' stop ya. Put everything you've got into everything, that's the Crazy Diamonds' way!"
"With all due respect, Mondo, Chihiro and I aren't bikers," Kiyotaka said.
"If you were anyone else, I'd say that was a joke," Mondo remarked.
Mondo: Not really sure what his game is, if he has one. Dude's only skating by because we've either won or because someone else fucked up at the last minute.
Chihiro: I really don't want to vote for Taka if we lose again. I think he'd be a great teammate if we gave him a chance.
Kiyotaka: Apply myself, of course! (slams fist over palm) All this time, I arrogantly assumed my distinguished roll as a moral compass would make me an ideal leader. But, it would seem I failed to see that you have to lead by example. From this point forward, Kiyotaka Ishimaru will be the best teammate one could ask for!
On the second island, Makoto walked by and saw Ibuki, who seemed a bit dazed, near the pharmacy. He waved to her.
"Oh. Morning, Makoto," Ibuki greeted without her usual enthusiasm.
"Hey, Ibuki," he greeted back. "Are you still down about what happened the other day?"
"Um, duh?" Ibuki replied, seemingly insulted. "How could I not be!?"
"Oh, uh, right, that was a stupid question..." he shyly admitted, rubbing the back of his head.
"I just... I just... feel like such an idiot!" Ibuki angrily stomped. "Ibuki was so upset and wanted to make Hiro pay, only for him to be innocent the whole time! And what's worse, Ibuki tried sticking up for the real thief in the end!"
Makoto looked conflicted, obviously not used to this kind of thing. "Um, listen, you really shouldn't let it get to you like this," he told his friend. "Because, um... what's the point in being upset?"
"What, and you aren't?" Ibuki asked, upset at his choice of words.
"Of course I am!" Makoto insisted. "It's just... there's no point in being upset about anymore. Teruteru admitted to the crime and we voted him off. He got what was coming to him."
"That's not what I'm upset about," Ibuki shook her head. "Ibuki sentenced an innocent person, without really hearing him out... How can I live with myself?"
"Well, your sorry about it right?" When she replied with a "yes", he added, "Then if you see Hiro again, apologize. I didn't really know him all that well, but he seems like a forgiving guy. I'm sure he won't hold it against you."
Ibuki let out a smile. "You know what? You're right, Makoto!" She enveloped him in a tight hug. "The next time, Ibuki sees Hiro, Ibuki will give the biggest, most amazing apology song ever!"
"That's... great..." Makoto coughed as her grasp constricted his breathing. Ibuki let him go, allowing him to live.
"Aha!" A mysterious voice suddenly said. The two turned to see it was Hifumi, who pointed an accusatory finger at Makoto. "Miss Kirigiri and Miss Ikusaba weren't enough for you, eh? You want to expand your harem by triggering Miss Mioda's flag as well!? You adulterous swine!"
"I don't even know what to say to that..." remarked a confused Ibuki.
"Do you need something, Hifumi?" Makoto asked calmly.
"As a matter of fact, yes," Hifumi replied, adjusting his posture. "I demand your immediate apology at once, Mr. Naegi!"
"... For?" the shorter boy unsurely asked.
"For signing my death warrant with your little trick the other night!" Hifumi adjusted his glasses. "While it did eliminate that vile Mr. Hanamura, it put myself and Miss Ludenberg in a precarious situation."
"Well, I'm sorry to hear that," Makoto apologized, "but Kyoko and I were doing what we thought was right."
"Well, your thought has created a very powerful enemy! Mark my words, Mr. Naegi, your uppance will come!"
As he departed, the brunet shouted back, "That's not how the saying- oh, forget it!"
Makoto: I don't know what he's going on about, but Hifumi's really starting to annoy me. I mean, I don't want to start a fight, but I also don't like being called out despite not doing anything wrong.
Ibuki: You know, I didn't expect much drama from this team when we were first formed.
Hifumi: I admit that in a moment of weakness, I too voted for Mr. Hanamura. But I wouldn't have been forced into it if not for that generic main protagonist and that kuudere cliche checklist!
Sakura and Hina were in their cottage; The former was lifting a dumbbell while the latter spotted her.
"986... 987... 988... You're doing amazing, Sakura!" Hina said, encouraging her friend. Sakura nodded as she continued.
Eventually, Sakura finished and set the dumbbell aside.
"All that and barely breaking a sweat?" Hina noted. "You're really something else, Sakura."
"It really isn't that big a deal," Sakura modestly replied.
"Maybe not to you, but for me it definitely is! You really put a lot of effort into being strong," Hina said.
"I aim to be the strongest person in the world one day," Sakura explained. "So it's really not surprising."
"Yeah, but, um, aren't you already the world's strongest?" Hina asked, confused. "I mean, I've looked up your records, you're undefeated so far and just look at you! No one would be stupid enough to challenge you!"
Sakura shook her head. "I thank you for the compliment, but I'm afraid I am not the strongest in the world. Not yet."
Hina looked even more confused. "Really? How come?" she asked.
"There is still one person I must beat before I can claim such a title..." Sakura grew quiet at that, as though as if she were recalling an unpleasant memory.
"Well, whoever they are, they must be one tough guy in order to give you trouble!" Hina smiled. Sakura returned it with a melancholy smile of her own.
"What about yourself, Hina?" she asked. "Do you have a dream of your own?"
Hina nodded exuberantly. "Yeah! I want to be a world-class swimmer one day! Just you wait, I'll be bringing home the gold for Japan before you know it!"
"I'll hold you to that," Sakura joked, her previous mood seemingly evaporated.
Sakura: (looks distant) I wonder... Would it be alright if I told Hina the origins behind my goal? I've only known her for a week after all, yet she's been my closest friend here.
Hina: A person even stronger than Sakura... Just what kind of guy is that?
Mukuro was walking around the clubhouse located near the pool. Curious, she tried opening the door, only for it to be locked.
"Still won't open?" asked Junko, who was also nearby.
"Unfortunately," Mukuro answered. "Why is it locked, anyway? What could Monokuma be hiding in it?"
"Knowin' him? Probably where he hides his torture shit," Junko said, shaking her head. She then grinned impishly. "So, what's up with you?"
Mukuro shook her head. "Nothing, right now. Why are you so curious? We're on separate teams, remember? What if someone sees us?"
"You worry too much, Muku," Junko giggled in her "cute" voice. "Be more like Junko and relax! Just 'cause we're on separate teams doesn't mean we can't get along!"
Mukuro rolled her eyes at her roommate's antics. "Really, there's nothing to talk about. I guess I'm still upset with what happened with Teruteru, but I'll get over it."
Junko returned to normal and her smile turned dark. "But can you get over what happened with your man?"
Mukuro frowned. "I have no idea what you're talking about," she said, unsure of the direction this conversation was turning.
"Well," Junko said, "what I mean is, didn't it piss you off that Kyoko and Makoto investigated together... without you?"
"Last I checked, they were allowed to associate with whoever they liked," Mukuro replied, trying to not let Junko's words get the better of her.
"Yeah, but it was just them and you were nowhere to be seen," Junko returned, her smirk growing crueller. "And rumor has it investigating wasn't all they were doing... Upupupupu..."
"Would you get to the point, already!?" Mukuro snapped.
Junko laughed a mean laugh and a crown suddenly appeared on her head. "My point, dear peasant, is that you need to make a move soon. Otherwise, thou shalt be left in the dust, as the common folk say." Junko removed the crown and departed, leaving Mukuro to stew in her words.
"Hey, what was that all about?" Leon asked, having taken notice of the conversation. Mukuro was surprised at his random appearance, but regained her composure quickly.
"It's nothing," she insisted.
"Didn't look like nothin'," Leon pointed out. "Look, whatever she said-"
"I appreciate your concern however, this is something I'd prefer to deal with on my own," Mukuro insisted.
Leon loked unsure, but didn't press further on the matter. "Well, if you do need help, ya know where to find me."
"I'll keep it in mind."
Mukuro: (scoffs) I don't know what her purpose was, but I'm not about to fall for it. Just... what kind of... (starts frowning) person does she think... I am...?
Leon: There's something about that Junko chick that sets off some alarms in my head, and not the good ones, either. Can't put my finger on it, but...
Junko: If anything, she should feel grateful. I'm just trying to help her out. (winks)
Chiaki was playing the game in the Hotel Mirai's lobby when she saw Gundham and Sonia walk in, trying to look inconspicuous. Chiaki noticed the paper in Gundham's hand and sneakily put on a pair of headphones, plugging them into the machine.
"So, this is the reward you were given?" Sonia asked in a whisper, getting a nod in return. Gundham looked around to make sure nobody was paying attention and read it quietly. It read:
To whomever is reading this, guess what? You stumbled across the first clue to the Hidden Monokuma Doll! What's a Hidden Monokuma Doll, you ask? Simple; Hidden around the island somewhere is a miniature of yours truly that if you find it, might just shape the game in your favor. If you possess it during the elimination roundtable, play it before the votes are cast and be sure to specify who you play it on. That person is now immune from the vote, a little "Get Out of Jail Free Card" of sorts. But be warned, there will be no prompt to play it, and it's only good for one vote, up until the Final Five. So be beary careful with how you use it. Whether you share this information to someone else is at your discretion. Well, good luck and have fun!
-Your Ever-Wonderful Host, Monokuma
"A secret advantage!?" Somia almost yelled, before getting elbowed by Gundham.
"A tool that can prevent a player from being voted out..." Gundham mused, getting nuzzled by one of his Devas. "In the right hands, this would be very advantageous."
"So, are you planning on finding it?" Sonia asked.
"Of course," he replied. "If worse comes to worse, I'd rather have it than not."
"Well... shouldn't we at least tell the others? It's not right that they be left out of the loop- That is how the saying goes, correct?"
Gundham shook his head in the negative. "The less who know of this the better, in my opinion. As the letter said, it's ultimately up to me to reveal the Doll's existence or lack thereof."
"But then, why did you tell me?" Sonia asked, confused and curious.
Gundham looked away for a moment. "Out of everyone on this team, you are the only one who I feel comfortable with telling. And I trust that you'll keep this a secret?"
"... I see," Sonia mused. "And yes, you can count on me. I may not approve of hiding from the others... but it's not my place to tell."
Meanwhile, Chiaki kept playing her game.
"I see," she muttered as she countered the computer's attacks.
Chiaki: I feel a little guilty about sneaking that information from them, but at least I got something out of it. With Celeste and Hifumi as the biggest targets right now, I should be fine for the near future, but what happens after that? That Doll thing might be good to have...
Gundham: (in the middle of grooming a Deva) I am aware that Chiaki was spying on us the whole time. And it's highly likely that she knows that I know she does. And if that is that case, she'd be wise to keep the information to herself.
Sonia: I hate having to lie to others, it's not how I was raised. (frowns) But at the same time, I've put a lot of effort into gaining Gundham's friendship and I do not wish to squander it.
"Attention, Meatbags!" Monokuma announced from the various monitors. "Get ready for another heart-pounding challenge! Put on your swimsuits and meet me at the beach in twenty!
Soon after, everyone was gathered at the challenge location and in their swim attire.
"I officially take back every bad thing I said about Monokuma," Leon swooned as he admired the girls. "How bout you, Kotes?" Makoto merely face-palmed in response.
"Hey, stare a little longer and it'll be the last thing you ever see!" Akane threatened, cracking her knuckles.
"Indeed! Can't you behave yourself like a normal high schooler!?" Kiyotaka scolded.
"Technically, Mr. Ishimaru, that is how a normal high-schooler behaves," interjected Hifumi. "Not myself of course."
"So you aren't normal, got it," Mondo joked, nuch to the overweight boys anger.
"Um, Sonia? Why the diving suit?" Mukuro pointed out.
"Well, I actually lack a swimsuit of my own," the girl in question explained, "so I bought this from the store the other day."
"With what?" Junko asked.
"Haven't you noticed the little coins all around the island?" Kyoko asked. "Apparently, they're the currency around these parts."
"Oh yeah, the tokens with Monokuma's face on it," confirmed Chihiro. "It's how I bought mine." She gestured to the wetsuit she was wearing, covering her from head to toe just like the foreign girl's did.
"Why are we only just now finding out about these?" Hina asked, not getting a response.
Sakura: (examines a Monocoin) Of course he put his face on them...
In a puff of smoke, Monokuma and Monomi had arrived.
"Monokuma appears!" dramatically announced the host.
"Hello," Monomi greeted.
"So, what's today's torture, he asks not expecting a sane response?" Nekomaru asked, not expecting a sane response.
"Well, Mr. Buzzkill," Monokuma replied, "if you must know, today's challenge is one that will really test your limits! Here's how it'll go: One person on each team will swim out to that ring over there-" he pointed to a floating ring in the ocean a bit far from the coast. Attacked around the ring were several small bags colored black and pink.
"They'll grab a bag sitting on the ring and swim back to their team, tagging out to someone else," Monomi added. "Once all the bags are collected, you can start untying them and take out the puzzle pieces inside and start solving it."
"First team to solve their puzzle will win invincibility and the reward this time is a trip to the fourth island's amusement park!" Monokuma finished. The teens perked up at hearing what their reward was and looked determined to win.
"That got your attention, huh?" joked the host. "And no prizes for guessing what happens to the losing team, so let's get down to business. Figure out what order you're going in and we'll get started."
A few minutes later, the teams had figured out how they'd go about the challenge and were ready to start. Out in front were Hina for the Bears and Mukuro for the Rabbits.
"You girls ready?" Monomi asked, receiving a nod in return.
"Then go!" Monokuma commanded, firing off his starting pistol and accidentally hitting Monomi.
"Uh... That was totally in my blind spot!" the bear insisted nervously.
Mukuro: For the challenge, we decided on sending out our stronger people first to get an early lead. A risky strategy, but I was confident we could pull it off.
Hina: Winning the last challenge really did our team's spirits good. (looks determined) Hopefully, we can keep up the good work.
Hina had managed to overtake Mukuro quickly and grab her team's bag first. Mukuro however, was right behind and it wasn't before long that both had returned to the shore.
"Alright, go!" Hina said, tossing the bag to the ground and tagging in Kiyotaka. The boy rushed into the water and swam as fast as he could to the bags.
"Here," Sakura said, giving her friend a water bottle. Hina practically shotgunned the drink after thanking Sakura.
"Woah," Mondo gasped.
"Saw something you liked?" teased Junko, making the biker grunt in embarrassment.
"I'm back," said Mukuro, tagging in Leon, who tried to catch up to Kiyotaka.
"You alright?" Makoto asked her, grabbing her a towel. Mukuro blushed and accepted the towel.
"I am, thank you," she quietly said. Kyoko noticed her reaction, but said nothing.
Back at the ocean, Leon had caught up to Kiyotaka and both boys grabbed their bags.
"Sorry, bro," Leon apologized before shoving Kiyotaka out of the way.
"How dare you!" Kiyotaka, now upset, yelled. In his anger, he swam straight to his team in an even faster pace than his opponent, tagging in Sakura.
"Holy shit..." Leon muttered as he reached the shore, Ibuki going out next.
"I'm not sure what that was supposed to accomplish," said Celestia. "Then again, that can describe you in general."
Leon had the decency to look ashamed.
Leon: Gimme a break! How was I supposed to know that shoving the guy'd turn him into friggin' Aquaman?
Kiyotaka: I don't understand that man, Leon. He's even, dare I say it, more of a miscreant than Mondo!
Though she tried her best, Ibuki wasn't doing a good job catching up to Sakura. By the time Ibuki had retrieved her bag, the large girl had nearly returned to shore.
"Cruuuud," Ibuki moaned as she worked double time to catch up.
Sakura had made it back to the beach and tagged in Akane.
"Good job, Sakura!" Hina complimented.
"We're definitely gonna win at this rate," Chihiro smiled.
"Let's not get cocky yet," Junko reminded her team. "They can still catch up..."
"Tch, like to see 'em fucking try," Mondo scoffed.
"Famous last wooords..." Monokuma teased.
Sakura: I was merely doing my part for the team.
Ibuki: (pants in exhaustion) That... was... AWESOME! (fist-pumps) I never want to do it again, but still, awesome!
Ibuki had tagged in Nekomaru, who quickly caught up to his student.
"What's with you?" he asked, disappointed in her lack of stamina. "I shouldn't have caught up so quick."
"Not that good a swimmer, sue me," Akane replied, struggling to stay afloat.
Nekomaru looked nervous for a moment, likely recalling their deal as well as his and her conversation that morning. He shook it off and started going ahead of her, but was noticably slower than when he started out.
As they both swam back to the beach, Akane looked torn between being grateful and upset, but he quickly ran to his team before he could say anything.
"Akane, are you alright?" Sonia asked, concerned for her friend.
"Yeah, just fine," she dismissed. Sonia looked unsure, but left it alone as she swam to the bags.
"Mr. Nidai, what gives!?" Hifumi demanded after the camera switched to the Rubbish Rabbits.
"I just got a cramp is all..." Nekomaru lied as he tagged in Makoto. "Happens when you swim too fast.
"You should be more careful in the future, then," Kyoko idlely remarked, making Nekomaru sweat a bit.
Akane: I know he slowed down on purpose, and while it was nice of him, I can't help but be pissed. He was the one going on about how nobody could suspect us and then he does somethin' like that?
Nekomaru: I know Kyoko knows about me and Akane and I know she said she won't say anything but, I'm worried about keeping this secret for too much longer. If anyone finds out the real reason I held back, I'm dead!
Sonia and Makoto weren't very strong swimmers, so they both retrieved their bags at the same time. Soon enough, the two returned to the starting point, tagging in Kyoko and Gundham respectively.
"Good match," Makoto said to his opponent, stretching out his hand. Sonia smiled and returned it.
"To you as well," she replied, shaking it.
"Look at you, making your rounds," Leon said as Makoto dropped his bag with the others. "Spread the wealth a little, why dont ya?"
"You know, when you say stuff like that, you shouldn't be so surprised that you don't have a girlfriend," Makoto said, rolling his eyes.
"Tch, screw you, man," Leon replied, though not angrily like expected.
"This challenge is a lot more intense than I thought," Chihiro said as Sonia returned.
"Yeah, but what's life without a little intensity, y'know?" Hina asked.
Makoto: There's nothing wrong with being a good sport. I don't have to think a girl's pretty to shake her have, contrary to whatever Leon tells you. (blushes) Not that I don't think she's not pretty, I just, um, y-you know what I mean!
Sonia: Difficult they may be, but at least the challenges are exciting! In just a short week, I've done so many new things I never thought I would back home!
Kyoko and Gundham were neck-and-neck as they reached for their bags. They stared each other down as they swam back to shore. Because he wasn't paying attention, Gundham hit his head against a buoy. Though she looked a bit concerned, Kyoko took advantage of the distraction to gain the lead on him.
"Naturally," the chunni muttered, rubbing his forehead. He whistled a tune and suddenly a dolphin showed up to escort him back to the beach.
"You have got to be kidding me," Chiaki shook her head as Kyoko tagged her out.
"Is even allowed to do that?" asked an annoyed Celestia.
"Well, there wasn't a rule against it," Monokuma said. "So this time well let him off the hook this time. But don't do it again, or else."
"Noted," Gundham replied, dismissing the animal and tagging in Chihiro.
Kyoko: I feel a bit bad for leaving him like that, but I didn't want to fall behind. Besides, it didn't matter much in the end.
Gundham: I do not like abusing my contract with the beasts of the world, so in a way, I'm glad Monokuma institued that rule.
While Chiaki wasn't a particularly good swimmer, her opponent was even worse. Combined with the slight lead the Rabbits had gained, she made it to the bags and began swimming back before Chihiro could arrive.
"Sorry!" she apologized as she passed Chihiro.
"C'mon, Chi!" Junko said from the beach.
"Get yet ass in gear!" Mondo shouted.
Eventually, Chihiro made it back with her bag and tagged out Mondo, who easily overtook Hifumi, who Chiaki had tagged in.
"Dammit, Chihiro! What the Hell?" Junko scolded, getting in her face.
"I-I'm sorry..." she apologized, feeling bad for letting her team down. "I really didn't mean to hold us back..."
"Now that's enough," Kiyotaka said, pulling Junko back. "Chihiro did set us back, but Mondo's trying his best to make it up. Besides, we still have the puzzle to do."
"Taka's correct," Sakura nodded. "Let's not give up yet."
Chihiro: (sighs) I still seem to have a long way to go before I stronger, I guess...
Chiaki: I don't get it... (pants) I played a lot of swimming games before coming here... (pants again)
"C'mon, Hifumi, you'd think you have a natural advantage in the water!" Ibuki called to her struggling teammate.
"A fat joke, Miss Mioda? Really?" Hifumi muttered as Mondo passed with his bag in tow. As he reached the bags, an idea formed in his head.
"Last one, you got this!" Mondo said to Junko as she raced to the bags.
"It's about damn time," Leon said as Hifumi returned.
"My sincerest apologies," Hifumi sarcastically said as Celestia went to retrieve the Rabbits' last bag of puzzle pieces.
"Hifumi, what is that?" Mukuro asked, pointing towards the other bag Hifumi was holding.
"You didn't..." gasped a disgusted Nekomaru.
"Oh please, like you haven't thought of it," the otaku scoffed. "Besides, there's no rule against it."
"If you think this won't get us to vote you off, start rethinking," Chiaki disappointedly said.
Hifumi: (polishes his glasses) Some people are just unpleaseable.
Mondo: (scowls) That fat fuck is lucky he's not on my team. (cracks knuckles)
Celestia returned with the last bag, dismayed that her foundation had been smeared. Meanwhile, Ibumi handed over the bag Hifumi stole to a pissed-off Junko, who swam all the way back after learning about the missing bag.
"Thanks," the model grumbled, death-glaring Hifumi.
Both teams begun assembling their puzzles. The Rabbits had given their pieces to Hifumi and Celestia, who began figuring out the pattern.
"This one should go here," Celestia said, placing a piece to the far right.
"And this here," Hifumi added, placing another piece next to it.
Meanwhile, things were a bit more chaotic on the Bears' end.
"Hold it, that's not where it goes!" Kiyotaka said, inadvertently shoving Sonia out of the way.
"I think this is it," mumbled Akane as she placed a piece.
Eventually, one team called Monokuma over, confident in their win...
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"And the winners are... The Rubbish Rabbits!" declared the host.
"Fuck yeah!" Leon cheered as raised a fist while Ibuki started dancing in place, Mukuro highfived Chiaki, Hifumi and Celestia smiled victoriously, and Nekomaru grabbed Makoto and Kyoko in a large hug, nearly choking them.
"Congratulations on another win, Rabbits," Monomi said happily. She them sadly turned to the Bears, who less enthused about the outcome.
"This is fucking bullshit," Mondo growled.
"For once, I agree with you," Kiyotaka added.
"We woulda won if Hifumi hadn't screwed us over!" Akane angrily stomped.
"Coulda, woulda, shoulda," Monokuma unsympathetically said. "Bears, you've got the afternoon to think over the vote and I'll see you at Monokuma Rock tonight. Until then, so long! Bear well!"
"If he makes one more stupid pun..." Hina muttered.
Celestia: I, for one am pleased with this outcome. The more victories, the more time I receive for my next plan...
Junko: I'm impressed the fatass had it in him, to be honest. On the upside, I can send another loser down Loser Road tonight. Upupupupupu...
Sakura and Hina were in their cabin, discussing the vote.
"So, you really want to go with Chihiro?" Hina asked.
"I'm afraid so," Sakura admitted. "Out of everyone here, she provides the least to the team. I know she's trying her hardest, but..."
"No, I get what you mean," Hina nodded. "Plus, between you and me, I think she was the fifth vote for Mahiru during the first vote."
"And what makes you say that?" a curious Sakura asked.
"It's... complicated," Hina answered. "I'll tell you after the vote."
Meanwhile, Mondo, Kiyotaka and Chihiro herself were also discussing the vote in the boys' cottage.
"I say it's Akane," Mondo casually said, combined g his pompadour. "She's the one who fucked up so bad, the other team had to bail her out.
"Not to mention, she always seems so distant from the rest of us," Kiyotaka said. "I'm sure it's just her personality, but..."
"Well, I'm okay with it," Chihiro said. "I mean, I like her and all, but I don't want to be voted out, so..."
"So it is what it is," the biker shrugged. "Better her than you, right?"
"I guess so," Chihiro nodded. "Well, I gotta go. See you tonight."
After she left, Kiyotaka turned to Mondo and asked, "So how did I do? At the challenge, I mean?"
"You were alright, why?"
"I was just curious. I put 110% in the challenge today, so I'm hoping my name doesn't come up."
Mondo sighed. "Dude, you need to take it easy. No one's targettin' ya, far as I know. Just keep at it, you'll be fine."
"I see," the honor student nodded. "Thank you for saying that... and for the advice earlier."
Mondo smirked. "Tch, whatever. I only said that 'cause I felt sorry for ya."
Kiyotaka smirked in return. "Of course."
Sakura: I am sorry it had to be this way, Chihiro. I hope you can forgive me.
Kiyotaka: As long as I keep putting my best foot forward, I will make it far in this game!
At the amusement park, the Rabbits seemed to be having a fun time. There were games, rides, snacks and everything else one would expect in such an area.
"Though I don't quite approve of the way we won, I can't deny this is fun," Chiaki said as she and Ibuki got off the rollercoaster.
"I know, right!?" Ibuki cheered.
Makoto saw Mukuro standing around by herself and went to his friend.
"You alright?" he asked. Mukuro looked up and saw who her new companion was.
"Oh hey," she shyly greeted. "I'm alright, I'm just... not used to this kind of thing.
Makoto flashed a smle, making her blush a bit. "Well, this happens to be mine, so..."
Mukuro brightened at his choice of words and took his lead to a nearby ride.
"Hey, Kyoko!" Leon called out, grabbing the girl in question's attention.
"This won't end well..." Nekomaru muttered.
"What part of "no" do you fail to comprehend?" the lavender girl asked. "You were taught basic language skills, correct?"
"Comprehend this, gorgeous," Leon smirked, holding a basketball in his hand. "A ride on the ferris wheel says I can make this shot without looking and one handed."
"Just walk away," pleaded Nekomaru.
Kyoko shook her head. "No, I actually want to see this."
Leon smirked and threw the ball behind him... conking Hifumi on the head, making him fall right to the ground.
"Well, that went about as well as expected," Celestia giggled.
""Uh, two outta three?" Leon nervously asked.
"Better luck next time," Kyoko shot down, walking away.
"Whatever you say, babe!" Leon called to her. "These lips won't wait forever, you know!"
"You are so sad," Hifumi muttered as he got up from the ground.
Ibuki: I'm still not completely over what went down with Hiro, but... I'll get over it. I can't keep beating myself up over every mistake I make, if I did, that's all I'd ever do! I just have to make sure I don't fall for a trick that dirty again.
Mukuro: I had... a really good time... (tries to hide her blush)
Leon: She sooo wants me. (smirks)
The nine, soon to be eight, Berserker Bears had all met up inside Monokuma Rock. They were inside the elevator and were on their way to another heart-pounding vote.
Akane: Yeah, I'm worried about the vote. I didn't exactly do so hot there at the challenge...
Chihiro: (is on the verge of tears) H-How...?
Gundham: My search for the Monokuma Doll had proved fruitless. I needn't worry however, I'm certain that the target is on neither myself nor Sonia.
Hina: After the vote, Sakura said she was gonna tell me her big secret. I wonder what it could be...?
Junko: Buh-bye to another basic, boring bitch! (waves excitedly)
Kiyotaka: My sincerest apologies to Akane, but I'm afraid you're only going to drag the tram down. You seem like a hard-working young woman, but I must do what is necessary for my team.
Mondo: As long as it ain't me going home, I don't really give a fuck who it is. (looks thoughtful) Kay, maybe not Chihiro, but...
Sakura: I've said all I need to. Now to see what awaits us...
Sonia: It never gets any easier when voting someone off. (looks sad)
The team had arrived at the elimination chamber and took their spots as always. Where Byakuya once stood was a picture of him with a thin pair of red lines across his face.
"Ugh, he's just as punchable in picture form..." Mondo shook his head.
"Welcome back, Bears!" Monokuma said from his high chair.
"Um, not to be rude, but can we just skip to the vote this time?" Chihiro surprisingly asked.
"What for?" Sonia asked in return.
"I'm kinda with her on this one," Akane said with a shrug. "Is there really any point to this? We all made up our minds when we got here, so let's just cut the crap."
"If there's no objections, then we'll proceed as Chihiro wishes," Sakura said, giving pause for somebody to speak up. When nobody did, it was Monokuma's turn to speak.
"Well, be a bunch of Buzz Killingtons!" the salty bear grumbled. "You know the drill: Vote for whoever you want, just be sure to vote."
Once everybody casted their vote, the screen turned on to reveal the roulette. It began spinning and eventually stopped with all three slots landing on...
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"... And the fifth person voted off of Total Drama Island is... Sakura Ogami!" Monokuma announced.
"Wha-wha-wha?" Monomi asked, stunned at the outcome.
"This can't be right..." a confused Gundham pondered.
"What the fuck! How!?" Mondo swore, pounding his podium.
"No! It's all a trick!" Hina cried. "Nobody would vote for Sakura!"
"Evidently, some people disagree," Monokuma sneered at her.
Hina looked ready to attack the anamatronic before being restrained by Sakura.
"I'm not sure why I was the one eliminated, but I will respect your wishes," she said calmly. "It wouldn't be right to be bitter at you for doing the same thing I was doing." As she begun to depart, Hina grabbed her arm.
"Wait, Sakura!" she pleaded. "You can't go! It's not fair! You still haven't... told me... your thing..."
Sakura smiled. "Another time," she told her friend. "For now, focus on the competition."
Hina sadly nodded.
Sakura took one last look at her teammates and sadly smiled before departing on the Elevator of Shame.
Sonia: (looks frustrated) I just don't understand it. Why was Sakura the one to go? I know that Gundham and I voted for Kiyotaka- sorry if you're watching this, by the by- and I'm certain that Akane and Chihiro racked up several votes...
Mondo: (slams a fist against the wall) None of this is makin' fucking sense!
The remaining eight Bears had returned to their cottage, the camera choosing to focus on Chihiro in particular. After she locked her door, she pulled a piece of paper.
As she looked over it, tears began to form in Chihiro's eyes. "I-I'm sorry, Sakura..." she cried as she held the paper close to her chest.
The camera cut to Monokuma sitting in his beach chair, ready for the outro.
"And in a shocking vote, it's Sakura who leaves," he said, slurping his martini. "Just how did it happen? Well, you'll just have to tune in next time and find out, won't ya?"
The camera faded to black, ending the episode.
Episode 6: "Wet, Wild and Way Weird"- THE END
Contestants Remaining: 17
To Be Continued...
And so long, Sakura. One of my favorites in Canon, but not one that was enjoyable to write for. I tried building her up to be sort of the Bears' leader and someone who'd go far-ish, only to get blindsided super early, but I don't think I did that great a job. She was never meant to last long or be a big character, but I still feel I could've done more with he than I did. Oh well, can't do much about it now.
Votes:
Sakura: Akane, Chihiro, Junko
Akane- Kiyotaka, Mondo
Chihiro- Hina, Sakura
Kiyotaka- Gundham, Sakura
And that's it for this one. Tell me what you liked/didn't like and don't forget to favorite, follow and the like!
Until the next one, ja ne!
- Brian