Super Smash Bros: Ultimate Survivor

by sarsars

The second season of the intense, cutthroat competition has finally begun! Forty competitors, new and old, will attempt to deceive, outwit, and outplay each other in order to be crowned the prestigious title of Ultimate Survivor.

4. Days 4 and 5: Corruption Spreads

East Tribe

The tribe reached camp and set their burnt-out torches in the sand. Ryu grabbed Pac-Man to gather food, leaving the others sitting around the fire.

"That was necessary," said Robin, feeling the heaviness in the air. "She was sabotaging us, making us weaker. We had no time to talk her down."

"Oh, we had plenty of time," said Richter, rubbing his forehead. "Had an entire day once we discovered it. But we didn't."

"No," said Ridley. "We didn't. We chose our victim."

"I wish I'd spoken with her," Rosalina whispered. "I never understood her reasons."

"Sabotage seems as valid a reason as any," said Geno.

"It doesn't seem like her," said Rosalina.

Richter gave King K Rool a glare. The crocodile pretended not to notice, but Robin did. "Is there something you'd like to share with the tribe?"

"A bit of a suspicion, really," said Richter. "Just a hunch based off what I was told our first day here."

"No need for any kind of rumors, now," said King K Rool.

That deflection got the others' attention. Rosalina eyed him carefully. "What rumor are you speaking about?"

"Hm? No rumor in particular, really," said King K Rool. His eyes darted around, finding Ridley, finding Mewtwo, finding no help. "Look, what's done is done. Why reflect on our choices when we can all learn from this and move on?"

"Because it doesn't add up," said Robin. "Why Wii Fit Trainer would've acted the way she did. Going against her very nature."

"Didn't we all discuss those questions yesterday?" asked King K Rool. "You keep going in circles with your suspicions."

"I assumed she was acting alone," said Rosalina.

"As far as I know, she was," said King K Rool. When Rosalina kept her accusatory look, he huffed. "One look from Richter's all that's going to convince you that she was working with me, is that it? I'd never work with her."

"And there's the lie," said Richter. "One look, really? You woke me up yesterday with your water plan with Wii Fit Trainer at your side."

"My water plan was stupid, as you agreed. Nothing to do with what happened. I dropped it as soon as the third person told me to."

"Who were those three people?" asked Robin.

King K Rool pointed. "Well, Richter was the first. Told him day one, and he disagreed instantly. Mewtwo was the second, and he also disagreed."

"Yes, it was a foolish plan," said Mewtwo. "One I did not expect to come from you."

"Too evil?" said Geno.

"Too easily defeated," said Mewtwo. "His plans have never been great, but the plan of refusing us water would've been toppled swiftly."

"It wouldn't have if a majority had agreed with me," muttered King K Rool. "My plan depended on numbers which I didn't have."

"So, from what I've gathered, your plan was to restrict our water supply?" asked Robin. "Is that accurate?"

"Would've had a majority with all the power," said King K Rool. "Instant domination."

"No one would have gone through with that," said Rosalina. "That is a despicable plan!"

King K Rool sighed. "I'm sure a few would've."

"Maybe the most deplorable," said Robin, shaking his head. "Though you'd have to have a sharp tongue to convince a majority of such a plan."

"Especially this early," said Richter. "Nine people against one of you. Good luck with that."

"If I had a majority, it would've been six against four," said King K Rool. "More manageable numbers."

"Which was impossible," said Richter.

"I know that now."

"Should've realized that before you opened your big crocodile mouth."

"That is enough," said Rosalina. "King K Rool, who was the third in your plan?"

Before King K Rool could respond, Ryu and Pac-Man arrived with food in hand. Ryu eyed his tribemates carefully, while Pac-Man immediately slapped some meat on a pan and held it above the fire.

"Have we missed something?" Pac-Man asked. He sighed. "This is why I hate gathering food. Entire plotlines get revealed in just a few minutes!"

"King K Rool just revealed to us that his initial plan was to prevent us from getting water," said Geno. "A familiar plan, if you realize."

Ryu gave the crocodile a dark look. "Yes. Far too familiar."

"And I explained to them," said King K Rool quickly. "That I abandoned that plan. More savvy players than me gave me good advice, to which I listened. That's the end of my involvement."

Richter shook his head. "You keep lying about that. You woke me up with Wii Fit Trainer. She was involved in the plan."

"Was she the third person?" asked Rosalina.

"Obviously not," said Geno. "Since she performed an extremely similar strategy."

"Yeah, she made us thirsty," said Pac-Man, shaking a fist at the air. "The gall of the woman!"

"Make jokes of that," said Geno. "When you're dying of thirst."

"I'd be too busy dying of thirst to make jokes about dying of thirst," said Pac-Man.

"A brilliant deduction."

"She wasn't," said King K Rool. "Ridley was."

Eyes turned to Ridley, who shrugged. "Would you expect me to risk myself being aligned with a plan like that?"

"Honestly, I would expect you to be the one for it," said Robin.

"I've a reputation for ruthlessness, not stupidity," said Ridley. "King K Rool's plan was idiotic. I talked him out of it, but it seemed Wii Fit Trainer didn't take my advice to heart."

That last remark got Mewtwo's attention. "Wii Fit Trainer was with you?"

"After King K Rool dragged her away from Richter, I was their next victim to listen to their plan. Wii Fit Trainer was far too eager to just be a peon; she kept interrupting whenever King K Rool explained. I half-expected them to reveal it was her plan at the end given her excitement. But, no, it was this poor reptile before us."

King K Rool caught on quickly. "To be fair, after being repeatedly told no twice in a row, I was pretty disheartened."

"Yes, it didn't take much convincing," said Ridley. "Wii Fit Trainer, on the other hand, didn't listen. Her mistake."

The tribe paused after this explanation, with the sizzling of meat being the only sounds to fill the air. Finally, Rosalina spoke, "So, it was her plan at the end."

"I still feel King K Rool is responsible for manipulating her," said Robin. "I don't think we should take that fact lightly."

"And the fact that he wanted to take water away from us in the first place," said Richter.

"I learned from my mistake," said King K Rool. "I'll take some of that responsibility, but she took my plan and ran with it. I didn't manipulate her. She was far too eager."

"Far too eager," repeated Mewtwo, slowly.

"That sounds like her," said Rosalina quietly. She nodded. "Very well. I'm satisfied with that explanation."

The others nodded as well. Mewtwo kept his gaze fixed on King K Rool, who refused to return the gaze, and the latter refused to look at Ridley, either. It was a clever lie to deflect blame away from them. For now, they seemed to be in the clear.

They finished cooking, ate, said their goodbyes, and slept away their exhaustion.

Day 4

North Tribe

Most of the tribe woke each other up as the sun crested over the horizon. They gathered food and water, cooked, and distributed meals for all but Dark Samus – who had disappeared – and Little Mac – who snored in his bed. Megaman helped cook and watched them eat.

"Say, don't you think it's unfair to let Little Mac sleep through his meal?" The Blue Bomber asked, holding the plate. "It might get cold."

"We let him sleep through the meal prep," said Falco.

"No, Megaman's right," said Daisy, taking the plate. She walked over to Little Mac and shook him awake. He snorted loudly and opened his eyes. "Morning. Here's a meal."

"Oh?" Little Mac rubbed his eyes. "You're the best, thanks." He raised his head and saw everyone gathered around the fire. "Oh, you guys cooked for me?"

"As thanks for a fantastic job last night," said Isaac. "You carried us through that challenge."

"And you passed out before you could eat," said Daisy.

"You couldn't even enjoy our reward," said Isaac. "Well, we saved a few coconuts for breakfast."

"Shouldn't have insisted on helping carry the basket," said Palutena.

"You pushed yourself too hard," said Corrin, shaking her head. "I wish you stopped earlier."

"It was a good workout," said Little Mac dismissively. "I was best suited for the challenge."

"Can't argue with that," said Falco. "I was exhausted after my second trip. Couldn't imagine doing another four or five more."

Little Mac tried to get to his feet, but he stumbled and caught Daisy for support. She helped him walk over to the tribe, and Corrin moved to sit next to him to catch him.

"That's about how I'd be if I'd done four or five more," muttered Falco.

"Dark Samus left us again?" asked Little Mac, craning his neck to look around.

"No one's seen her since last night," said Palutena.

"Can't you sense her?"

Palutena waved her hand over to the jungle. "She's somewhere to the east," she replied.

"Not very accurate," said Duck Hunt. "Thought you could detect evil."

Palutena considered him carefully. "I'm not in Skyworld. That's where I'm at my strongest."

"And, to be fair, that's more accurate than the rest of us," said Isaac.

"No, I could sniff her out," said Duck Hunt. "Want to see? I can do it!"

"We're fine," said Corrin. "We're better if she's away."

Duck Hunt glared at her. "No, we're not! I can find her!"

"Duck Hunt, please," Corrin whispered. "Don't."

But Duck Hunt leapt off his seat, sniffed near Dark Samus' favorite tree, and lurched back. "Oh… I've got her scent."

"Come back, Duck Hunt," Isaac called. "There's no need!"

"Let him go," said Greninja. "At least we will know what she's doing."

That remark got a few stern looks, but Duck Hunt nodded rapidly at the approval. "I'll scout her out!" He cried and jumped through the trees."

"Honestly, it's pointless," said Megaman. "She can't do anything when she's on her own."

"Accurate," said Greninja. "But it's best to know the enemy's actions in order to counter."

"If she's planning to blow us up, I'd want to know," said Falco.

That seemed to dissuade the others from arguing, but Palutena gave the frog a curious look. Greninja returned the look, seemingly communicating through his eyes. She couldn't read the look; she could only assume there was a secondary plan to let Duck Hunt roam.

---

Duck Hunt didn't have to travel far. The scent grew strong extremely quickly, the smell of evil, of death. It was horrible. Awful. But strong. Very strong. Easy to track.

He saw the Prime floating next to a tree, staring at the ground. He approached carefully, crouching, his duck friend primed and ready to strike if needed. He slid against the ground as he tried to peek at the object of her eye.

Then she turned sharply, and he let out a yelp. The duck quacked quietly and bounced on his head, striking a threatening pose.

Dark Samus didn't look worried. Or anything. "You've ventured far. Is there a reason?"

"Tracking."

"You've found me."

Duck Hunt nodded slowly. Neither of them moved, but he felt like fleeing. "What are you doing?"

"Planning," said Dark Samus. "What other objective is there?"

"What are you planning? The others want to know."

"They will know soon." Dark Samus raised her hand and beckoned. Duck Hunt stared at the arm, feeling a strange compulsion to approach. The duck grabbed him and tried to pull him away, but he was too strong for his friend and sat down right across from her. "Tell me, what are your thoughts of your tribemates? How many of them do you trust?"

"All of them!" Duck Hunt said proudly.

"Is that right? Truly, all of them?"

Duck Hunt stared at that visor, wondering what to say. Yes, of course! All of them were his friends! And then he remembered Corrin, and then he realized she didn't trust him. And then he remembered Falco agreeing. And then he remembered everyone meeting in secret without him. Everyone but Little Mac, and Megaman, and Dark Samus. They didn't trust him.

His eyes dropped and he whimpered slightly. "I don't know… I just trust a few of you."

Dark Samus slowly nodded. "It is a wise thought. You cannot trust everyone, as must as you would like. Only trust the few who would never betray you."

"Like you?" Duck Hunt asked, tilting his head. His friend shook his feathered head quickly, quacked at him to ignore her, but he knew his friend was wrong about her.

"Like me," said Dark Samus. "I know they've met to eliminate me, but I've made no motions against them. I feel it necessary to retaliate. Would you not agree?"

"Yeah! You've done nothing wrong!" On his head, his friend quacked in disbelief.

"I am pleased you see it my way. We shall bring a few others to our fold. Some other outcasts. We'll ensure that our alliance destroys theirs."

"Great idea! I can't wait to tell them!"

"No. Tell only one or two who you trust the most."

"But that doesn't leave much," said Duck Hunt quietly. "Little Mac? Megaman?"

"Little Mac, yes. Please bring him if you can. I do not believe it is wise to come to him in front of the others; they will lie to him."

"That's right! They'll lie! Don't worry, I'll bring him." And with that, Duck Hunt bounded away.

---

Palutena grabbed Greninja after their breakfast. "May I ask why you sent Duck Hunt away? You and I both know what could happen."

"Yes, but this corruption will be far more obvious," said Greninja.

"But the others are already voting for her in our next Tribal Council," Palutena whispered. "They don't need proof."

"They are not convinced that Megaman has been corrupted, as you and I believe. If Duck Hunt's personality is shifted completely, then that certainly will be proof for everyone."

Palutena shook her head. "Again, this doesn't help our case against Dark Samus; we already have the majority."

"A precaution, then," said Greninja. "Once Dark Samus is eliminated, I fear her corruption may last. If Megaman is truly infected, then his performance may be affected. I do not wish for him to be eliminated because he simply spoke with her. I wish for this tribe to stand with us and allow for he and – likely – Duck Hunt to be cured."

Palutena hesitated. "That's… honorable. How likely do you think it is that they'd be cured?"

"With all of us calling for it, hopefully likely," said Greninja. "I wish I could say for sure."

"You're okay with using Duck Hunt as bait?"

"He will not be a threat," said Greninja. "He is better used like this, to help the rest. It is better he is corrupted alone to alert us all, rather than all of us be corrupted."

Palutena studied him carefully. She couldn't hear regret in his voice, but she knew he didn't speak callously. "A necessary sacrifice, then?"

"Hopefully not a sacrifice," said Greninja with a slight chuckle. "If that's the case, we're in far more trouble than I anticipated."

West Tribe

Villager felt a sharp shove into his side, and he woke up with a gasp of surprise. He blinked, looking at the dawn, and realized he could hear giggling behind him. He slowly turned around and saw the Chorus Kids grinning at him.

"Morning, leader," they said. "It's time for a meeting!"

"Meeting?" Villager echoed sleepily. He looked at the others still sleeping in their beds. None missing. "What kind of meeting?"

"An alliance meeting, duh?" The Chorus Kids giggled. "Come, come! We want to announce our plan now that we have the majority."

Villager vaguely recalled his inadvertent agreement. "Hold on, guys, we need to talk about that." He paused, wondering when his sleep-rattled brain would think of a good argument. "Who's in the alliance, again?"

"Us, you, Bowser Jr, Lucina, and Charizard."

"Uh huh… but Lucina's over there." Villager pointed at the sleeping woman, looked around, and saw Charizard's flame flickering atop the sand. "Charizard's over there." He realized he saw Bowser Jr sleeping as well. "And Bowser Jr's there."

"Well, duh, we haven't woken them up yet." The Chorus Kids shook their heads in disbelief. "We wanted to be polite and wake you up first, leader, so you can start a plan!"

As the Chorus Kids turned to leave, Villager grabbed one of the three. The other two stopped in place, seemingly frozen. They turned around. "Let go of us, please."

Villager let go. "Bowser Jr doesn't know about this meeting?"

The Chorus Kids shook their heads. "We're going to surprise him. He'll be so pleased!"

"Or cranky," Villager muttered. He rubbed his forehead. "There's no need to make any plans this early. No one is in danger of getting eliminated anytime soon. Don't wake people up at dawn for no reason."

"We have a reason. We need to make-"

"No," said Villager sternly. "We don't. We need to sleep. Don't make plans without Bowser Jr, and don't wake me up at dawn. Got it?"

The Chorus Kids stared at him for a moment, and then they shook their heads. "Okay. Good night."

"Night." Villager watched them walk away sadly, and then he lay back down in his bed. What a nightmare. He didn't know how he'd break it to them that he had no intention of staying in this 'alliance' of theirs.

---

Within the next hour, the others woke up far more naturally. Shulk sat by the campfire stoking the flames and cooking a small piece of meat for himself, and Lucina came over and sat down next to him.

"Morning," he said, smiling. "No food?"

Lucina shook her head. "I'll wait until you're done."

"Oh, no need to wait. Enough room on the fire for more than one of us."

Lucina nodded, but she didn't move. She watched the fire for a few more moments, and then she said, "Say, have you spoken with Simon much?"

"Simon of Belmont fame?" Shulk asked.

"The one and only," Lucina replied with a smirk.

"I did, actually."

"He and I spoke last night, actually, before the challenge." Lucina paused, considering the flames. "I invited him into an alliance."

"He accepted, I'm sure."

Lucina nodded. "He included you, as well."

"I'm flattered."

Lucina perked up. "So, you accept, then?"

Shulk took his meat off the fire and poked it, judging the texture. "Of course, Lucina. I don't think there was any doubt in the matter." He nodded at the pan and slid the food onto a wooden plate, and then he handed the pan to her. "It's good to hear Simon is with us."

Lucina took the pan and stood up. "I suppose I'll wash this, then."

Shulk blinked, taken aback, but Lucina smiled. "Enjoy your meal. I'm glad to hear we're both in agreement."

"Yeah… glad to hear," Shulk muttered, blushing slightly. "If you want, I could-"

But Lucina waved the pan and took it over to the ocean to wash it, refusing to hear another word about it.

---

Banjo found Charizard cooking his own meal on his own. The lizard saw them approach and gave them a slow nod, and Kazooie popped her head out of the backpack to wave.

"Morning, Charry!" Kazooie said. "Don't want to share the fire?"

"No."

Kazooie rested on Banjo's head. "That's a shame. Not even if we ask nicely?"

Charizard snorted in annoyance. "The answer will always be no."

"What if it's just popcorn?" asked Kazooie. "Just a couple minutes, and your tail will smell like delicious popcorn!"

Charizard lowered his gaze to the bear. "Your friend is one more snark away from getting roasted on my tail as well."

Banjo nodded quickly. "Heard."

"'Friend' is a loose term," Kazooie muttered as Banjo stuffed her back into his backpack.

When she was safely put away, Banjo grinned cheesily. "So, why are you on your own?"

Charizard waved a lazy hand at the others around camp. "It's better for my head if I stay far away from the child and the annoying triplets."

Banjo chuckled. "Oh, them. Yeah, they've been making the rounds, apparently. Villager's part of their alliance."

Charizard chucked the meat into his mouth and chewed. "Where'd you hear that?"

"From the Chorus Kids' many mouths. Bowser Jr was trying to recruit us when the trio interrupted us, announced Villager said yes, and then they ran away to plan who knows what."

Charizard finished chewing and swallowed in thought. "Villager does seem like he'd be able to tolerate those annoying voices."

"You really think he's part of them?"

"No. He also doesn't seem like an idiot, and only an idiot would agree to an alliance with them."

After Charizard closed his mouth, Bowser Jr drove slowly by. He gave Banjo a shifty look and pointed at Charizard. "Secret meeting, later. Okay, partner?" Then he drove away.

Charizard blinked, and Kazooie popped out of the backpack, unable to resist. "Looks like you're part of their alliance, idiot." Immediately, Banjo sprinted away, but Charizard was too dumbfounded to react.

---

Cloud and Simon happened to be nearby collecting firewood when they overheard Bowser Jr's exclusive invitation. They watched him drive by, staring suspiciously at them, and disappear into the trees.

"I'll admit, I didn't expect such a brazen move," said Simon.

"No?" Cloud asked. "Seems standard for him. Charizard told me all about their pestering the other night. I guess this is them capitalizing on it."

"Surely Charizard isn't actually with them."

"Of course not. He despises them."

Simon nodded. "And you?"

"I think he's indifferent about me," said Cloud with a shrug. "Maybe he feels we bonded after our mutual exile on the first day."

"Your opinion of Bowser Jr and the Chorus Kids."

"Indifferent." Cloud added, "Although, if you'd ask my opinion of a lot of you, I'd say indifferent. Not because I don't care, but because I don't know your strategies enough to judge you."

"I'd say Bowser Jr and the Chorus Kids have made their strategies clear to everyone," said Simon.

Cloud considered that for a moment. "I suppose. They haven't really read the tribe correctly. They asked the wrong people to join them. Though, I guess there aren't any 'right' people here."

"That I'd have to agree with," said Simon. "I believe they revealed themselves too quickly."

"To be fair, they're extremely impatient. I doubt they realize how long eighty days truly is."

"No," said Simon with a chuckle. He considered Cloud for a moment. "If you'd ask my opinion, I'd believe that Shulk and Lucina have a strong potential alliance."

Cloud raised an eyebrow. "What about them tells you that?"

Simon nodded at them sitting by the fire, laughing as Lucina cooked her meal. "They have bonded quickly. Both are strong swordsmen. They could rival you."

"I'd agree with you there."

"And they would likely come up with strong strategies to bring an alliance to the finale," said Simon. "You would be an important inclusion."

Cloud nodded slowly, understanding the invitation. Unfortunately, an alliance of four meant excluding two people who he had been bonding with.

Simon seemed to read his thoughts. "Do you already have an alliance?"

"No. Nothing official. Shulk already thought to invite me. Interesting that he'd try again."

Simon simply nodding, keeping secret the fact neither of his alliance members knew about this.

"Give me time to weigh my options," said Cloud. "Given the presence of Bowser Jr and the Chorus Kids, I don't think there's any pressure. They've made themselves easy targets."

"This offer isn't forever," said Simon. "If you take too long, we may extend it to others."

"I understand." Cloud returned to his firewood, and Simon left him in thought.

East Tribe

Richter awoke early, having experienced little but pangs of regret in his sleep. He rubbed tired eyes and sighed quietly to himself. He should've spoken up. Both during Tribal Council and last night after Ridley spoke. He'd guessed the whole story long ago, and he knew Ridley was lying to keep King K Rool from taking the blame.

He should've said something, refuted the lie, but he had no proof, and Ridley fixed any holes in the story. Damn it. Wii Fit Trainer's elimination was not his fault – he knew that as well – but King K Rool should've been eliminated instead. She shouldn't have been the scapegoat.

He pulled himself out of bed and stretched. He could feel a pair of eyes on him. Could feel the stares. He glanced around casually, looking for something in the shadows. He hoped it was one of the two. He wanted them to threaten him, to give him ammunition. He wasn't afraid.

Instead, in the trees, he saw pure brown pupils illuminated by porcelain white. He met the eyes and walked closer, and the eyes slowly disappeared. He followed them into the brush, and the puppet stood in a clearing.

"Oh, right, you don't sleep, I'm assuming," said Richter.

Geno didn't react to that remark. Instead, he said, "You believe King K Rool is to blame."

The puppet apparently read his thoughts. "I'd hoped everyone would've come to that conclusion."

"They did, but Ridley convinced them otherwise."

Richter sighed. "I can't believe that's all it took."

"Ridley's a cunning, deceptive beast," said Geno. "He knew his lie long before last night. Additionally, the others do not want to cause dissonance so soon into the competition."

"Wasn't that exactly what King K Rool and Ridley were trying to do?"

"Only the crocodile," said Geno. "If we were to lose the next challenge as well, they would be eliminated by default. If you believe the same as me, then we are to convince the others not to side with them no matter what they offer."

"Should be easy enough," said Richter with a shrug.

But Geno lifted himself off the ground and floated at eye level with him. "I will repeat myself: Ridley is a cunning, deceptive beast. We cannot underestimate King K Rool either, despite his initial idiocy. The others' unwillingness to disrupt the tribe may cause them to listen to those two. Despite being starved yesterday, they did not confront Wii Fit Trainer despite discussing it openly."

"Yeah, that was annoying," Richter muttered.

"You were part of it," said Geno, sternly. "You collapsed because you were dehydrated, did you not?"

Richter winced. He'd hoped they'd forgotten about his mistake. He felt he was lucky they didn't blame him for their loss. "I did."

"Yet you did not get more water, even as you saw Wii Fit Trainer refill your cup just halfway."

"I underestimated my thirst."

Geno slowly shook his head. "Passivity will get you eliminated. Ridley will know he is a threat. He will not hesitate. We cannot either."

---

The others woke up not long later. Pac-Man found Robin staring at the ocean and skipped up to him. Robin noticed him approach and gave him a curious nod.

"Morning!" Pac-Man said, smiling brightly. "How do you feel about our chances now?"

"Whose chances?" Robin asked.

Pac-Man pointed at him and then at himself. "You and me, together, working out?" When Robin visibly recoiled, he shook his head. "The tribe, you ridiculous bird! With Wii Fit Trainer gone."

"Well, we shouldn't have many more water troubles," Robin reasoned after recovering. "I believe Mewtwo personally has set to deciding that. As far as strength goes, I don't believe she was our strongest, but I don't believe she was a weak link."

"What a great non-answer," Pac-Man said, shaking his head. "Come on, tactician. Better or worse."

"Better. Ultimately, she caused too many problems."

"So, who's the next to cause problems?" Pac-Man asked. "Who're we taking out next?"

Robin blinked, looking around. He'd asked so loudly. Others were giving them curious looks. Ryu started to walk over. "Why must you ask such questions?"

Ryu stood over Pac-Man, arms crossed. "Mind if I join your conversation?"

Pac-Man swung around on his heels. "Not at all!" He said, all smiles. "Want to weigh in? Who're we taking out next?"

"If you're not careful: you."

Pac-Man gasped. "How could you?" He demanded, still smiling as if everyone was in on the joke. "I'm a valuable member of this team!"

"Tribe," said Robin. "They're careful about their terminology here."

"What have you done except get eliminated in the first competition?" asked Ryu.

"I gave us points in the reward challenge-"

"Which we lost," said Robin.

"-and I would've given us coconuts if Richter hadn't fallen on his face," Pac-Man finished, shaking his head. "But he gave us a horrible loss."

"He wasn't to blame," said Robin. "We all know the true cause."

"Do you?" asked Pac-Man. He tilted his head. "I thought King K Rool was the culprit."

Robin sighed. "Yes, he instigated Wii Fit Trainer, but she carried out the plan without his permission."

"Did she, now?"

"Did you not listen last night?" asked Ryu, sternly. "Were you too preoccupied with your own little world?"

"You should be careful," said Pac-Man with a slight sigh. "Your words hurt a lot, Ryu." He turned back to Robin. "Whose word are you trusting, eh? Ridley's?"

Robin hesitated. "He gave a valid alibi for King K Rool."

Pac-Man inched closer. "Come on, now, you're trusting Ridley."

"It's unfair to judge his character," said Robin. "He could be lying, which he's wont to do, but he also has little respect for others. If he's lying, he's lying for King K Rool, which makes little sense given their indifference toward each other."

Pac-Man's smile turned sly. "You're giving him too much credit, you know."

Robin shrugged. "Perhaps. I'm cautious about him, I'll have you know, but I do not want to misjudge him and his strategy before I've seen it."

"It's happening right now."

"Perhaps. We'll see."

Pac-Man sighed and turned back to Ryu. "He's lost. Surely you're suspicious!"

"I distrust you."

"Glad to hear, pal." He patted Ryu's shoulder and started to walk away. "Good to know I'm the sanest one here."

Ryu snorted. "Only a fool would stake that claim."

Robin nodded slightly. "Although, a fool is sometimes the one to speak the harshest truths."

"So, you believe him, then?"

"His concerns are valid. I will not join an alliance with Ridley, but I won't eliminate him simply because of his past." Robin smiled slightly. "Especially because he may have the greatest strategy of us all."

---

Rosalina floated through the jungle until she came across Mewtwo meditating by himself. She waved her wand and smiled, and Mewtwo let out a short breath of annoyance.

"Good morning!" Rosalina said cheerfully. "May I ask why you're so far away from the others?"

"To concentrate," said Mewtwo, feeling a slight pain in his head. "Others' voices disrupt that."

"Is there something I can help with?" She asked. "Other than leave you in silence, because I'd like your opinion."

Mewtwo opened his eyes and stood up. "What opinion?"

"Of the others."

"That is information I will not give."

"I see," Rosalina said quietly. "May I ask why?"

"Information is power," said Mewtwo. "Whatever I tell you could be used against me."

"A fair point. However, I would not go behind your back to gossip to the others. That is beneath me."

Mewtwo sized her up. He couldn't see any dishonesty in those celestial eyes. "Be that as it may, I still will not answer your question." When she didn't move, he continued. "Is there something else?"

"Have the others asked for you to join their alliances?" asked Rosalina.

"There have been no alliances decided yet," said Mewtwo. Thankfully. He'd found it harder to be aggressive than he'd anticipated. The others had been passive as well.

"So, nobody has asked," said Rosalina quietly. She tapped her chin with her wand, and then she said, "Would you be interested in an alliance with myself?"

Mewtwo stared at those eyes. Nothing. He slowly nodded. "I would have to ask who else in this alliance of yours."

Rosalina smiled. "You and me. Who else would you consider?"

"Robin," said Mewtwo instantly. An inquisitive mind. Powerful to have on his side. "Ryu as well." Strong and disciplined.

"Excellent! Shall I gather them?"

Far too eager. "No. There should be no gathering. Not today."

Rosalina nodded. "Very well. When you give the word." She bowed slightly, but before she turned to leave, Mewtwo held out a hand.

"You're being far too submissive," he stated. "This was your idea, yet you're acting like I'm in charge."

"You are our Tribe Leader, are you not?" She tilted her head.

He could see the innocence. He knew it was an act, but he couldn't see it. Why couldn't he see it? "That is why you asked me, yes. But I will not be thought of as the leader of whatever you and I agree upon in the future." He would not have the idea associated with him in case it falls. "As I said, do not speak to them. If it is done, it will be done when I decide it."

Rosalina nodded, more curtly this time. "That is okay with me. It may be too late, however."

"I know." And with that, Mewtwo returned to his meditation. Rosalina smiled softly and left him be.

South Tribe

As he rested on top of the treeline, Shadow sensed someone floating up to him. He opened one eye slightly, but he had no need. He heard the flapping of angel wings. He smiled.

"Curiosity piqued you?" He asked.

Dark Pit landed softly, carefully, on another tree. He looked down and shook his head. "You choose the worst place for your naps, honestly."

"Few can reach me up here."

Dark Pit snorted. "I overheard Incineroar mentioning he'll just shake you down."

"I can teleport."

"I think he forgets, sometimes."

"What would you like to discuss?" asked Shadow.

Dark Pit studied his unnerved face. "Your display last night. You painted a huge target on your back, I feel."

"Targeted by whom?"

"Honestly, everyone. Only Isabelle really seemed surprised by your announcement, and then when you teleported away, we kind of just let it be."

Shadow sighed. "Then calling attention to the problem solved nothing."

"Well, you antagonized the Tribe Leader and his alliance," said Dark Pit. "And then you just… left. Like, you made a point, and then you disappeared before you could drill deeper. And, with you gone, Metaknight all but said that he'd target you next."

Shadow nodded slowly, considering this. "You came up to me-"

"To warn you. I'll admit I'm worried about a potential Metaknight-Bayonetta alliance as well. They'd be a powerful team. Extremely strong. So, if you want to destroy that alliance, I'm giving you this warning. You haven't succeeded yet."

"I've sown the seeds," said Shadow. "That's important. The information is out there. Thank you, Dark Pit. I will speak to the others."

Dark Pit nodded. "Then good luck with that. Let me know what you find."

"You won't join me?"

"Well… you did out yourself as their enemy. If you fail, I don't really want to be associated with you."

Shadow considered him. "I'll remember that."

"Wait-" But Shadow disappeared. Dark Pit crossed his arms and frowned. "Okay… I need to make some friends, too."

---

Metaknight and Bayonetta had left near dawn to discuss strategy. They'd found a clearing and stood across from each other, whispering.

"We will not include them," Metaknight said, firmly.

"Oh, you disappoint me," said Bayonetta. "They're easily persuaded. I've already convinced her."

"That's the problem. If they're easily persuaded to join us-"

"Us!" Bayonetta said, almost cheered. "That's a beautiful word."

"-they'd be easily persuaded to oppose us," he finished, unable to hide his annoyance.

"Do you doubt Isabelle's loyalty?" asked Bayonetta.

"Do you not?" Metaknight countered. "Do you trust anyone's loyalty?"

"I trust ours. I trust we understand we're strongest with each other."

Metaknight glared at her. "There are alternatives."

"Why not include them?" asked Bayonetta. "There cannot be that many you trust in this tribe."

"There are none. Must I repeat myself?"

"It's adorable when you do. How many, again?"

Metaknight ignored that. "I fear Isabelle – and Inkling as a result – would align with whomever gives her the most compelling argument. What have you done to convince her?"

"I've told her we're friends and that, together, we'll be strong. From me, that is a guarantee."

"Others can say the same. That's simple. Others can be nicer to her, can be friendlier to her. If Isabelle and Inkling are – as you say – an aligned pair, then they can target Inkling in order to convince her. What have you said to Inkling?"

"Little if anything," said Bayonetta, uncertainly. She nodded, twirling a lollipop in her mouth. "You make a good point. I'll speak to her as well. Ensure their loyalty before the others can swoop in. Who were your alternatives?"

"Chrom," said Metaknight. "If possible, then Mach Rider and Dark Pit."

"Chrom is acceptable," said Bayonetta. "But the latter two I will argue are less loyal than mine. Mach Rider is an enigma, one that we should not allow ourselves to trust. Dark Pit is less mysterious but less trustworthy."

"I share the sentiment," said Metaknight. "But I also feel they'd be less inclined to betray us."

"I disagree. I feel their motives would be much more self-interested, whereas Isabelle would only betray us because of her generosity. It would take quite the story to sway her."

"All motives in this game are self-interested."

"True. But you and I both know those girls. Inkling is mischievous but not malicious."

"Nor is Dark Pit."

"And Isabelle is the sweetest thing."

"But weaker than Mach Rider."

"Others will see that strength," said Bayonetta. "And use it against us."

"And they'd see her generosity and use it against us," said Metaknight.

Bayonetta considered that. "A fair point. Then shall we attempt to convince both sides? See who convinces their pair?"

Metaknight nodded. "If we managed to convince all to join our side, I will choose whoever I feel is less loyal during the Tribal Switch."

"I trust your judgment there," said Bayonetta. "We'll have a busy few days ahead of us!"

---

Mach Rider sat against a tree, twirling his miniaturized motorcycle in his hand. He heard the splattering of a wet substance behind him, and he turned his head slightly to see an orange blob of paint. He saw a brief wave appear and just as quickly disappear.

He waited a moment, and then he said, "You want something?"

There was another pause, and then a pair of eyes appeared in the paint. Inkling transformed back into a kid and shook the paint off her.

"You're way too observant, you know," she muttered.

"When you've seen what I've seen, nothing will surprise you."

Inkling responded by sitting in front of him, cross-legged. She leaned forward. "Consider me interested!"

He stared at her. "You're too young for my story.

"I've heard nearly all of these other stories," said Inkling. "I doubt yours is the saddest."

But as she stared at that black visor, she could feel a wave of intensity that made her much less certain about her claim. She leaned back. "I mean, I heard Lucina's story. That made me cry."

"Then you've no need to hear mine."

"Oh, come on!" Inkling cried. "You're, like, the last one I need to know. It's like a collection! Some of these guys have stories that can be summarized in like a sentence. Yours, as far as I know, might be an entire book!"

"One that shall never be told."

Inkling covered her face in her hands and groaned. "I don't understand you. If you aren't going to open up, how do you expect to win?"

"What do I have to gain from revealing my backstory?" asked Mach Rider.

"Trust! I'd certainly trust you if I knew what made you… you."

"My reputation makes me Mach Rider. It is my title."

"Good! Something new! I just assumed that was your first and last name."

"Do those of your kind even have last names?" asked Mach Rider.

Inkling shrugged. "Some. Not that I've ever cared to know most of them. I don't even like my real name."

"Which is?"

"Which I'll reveal when you tell me your name," said Inkling, with a wink.

Mach Rider nodded. "Eternal mysteries, then."

Inkling, disappointed by that answer, continued, "So, what is your plan? What are you trying to do?"

"Enjoy some peace before our next challenge," said Mach Rider.

"After the challenge, then. It can't always be peaceful. We've had a good run so far, sure, but it can't last."

"It will not, and my strategy will adapt when the need arises."

"What's your strategy now?"

"To relax."

Inkling groaned. "You're the worst, I swear." She stood up and shook her head. "I try to be nice, and I get vague answer after vague answer."

Mach Rider returned to his motorcycle. "It was a pleasure to talk, miss."

"Yeah, yeah… maybe next time you'll leave me more satisfied, eh?"

"Likely not," said Mach Rider.

"Not that you care."

Mach Rider didn't respond, and Inkling shook her head and walked away, feeling annoyance and intrigue. She'd find out answers one day. She had to.

---

As Ken devoured a piece of meat, Isabelle skipped up to him. He glanced up from his meal and let go of a tough bit.

"Hey, Isabelle, how're you doing?" He asked, struggling not to glance hungrily at the food.

"Extremely well!" Isabelle said cheerily. She bounced on her toes, smiling brightly. "I'm so glad we've won so many challenges!"

"Yeah, the coconut last night was a great reward."

"It was!" Isabelle said. "How are you enjoying your meal?"

"Cooked to perfection, as always," Ken lied, avoiding touching the well-done meat. "You don't normally do rounds like this."

"No? I guess I'm looking for any helpful advice," said Isabelle. "Anything would help, of course."

Ken felt the phantom toughness against his teeth. "Well… there is this one part-" He looked at Isabelle's hopeful, expectant eyes, and the complaint evaporated on his tongue. "No. It's great. Thanks again."

Isabelle beamed. "Oh, wonderful! I thought it might've been too tough – I did make the fire extra strong this morning – but everyone has said I cooked it perfectly."

"Maybe cook mine a little less?" Ken suggested. "I like my meat rarer than most." He patted his abs. "Builds muscles, you know."

Isabelle tilted her head. "Is that right? I hadn't heard."

Ken nodded. "Anyway, you're doing great. Keeping us all fed." He glanced at the others eating their meals. "Mind if I ask if you've made a plan for doling out food in the future?"

"Oh, yes, I have a plan for every contingency!"

"Contingency?"

"It feels wrong calling them eliminations."

"Ah. That type of contingency. Well, they're part of the game, aren't they? I don't think it's wrong if it's the only word for it."

"I suppose," Isabelle said, sighing slightly. "I just don't like the idea of voting for anyone else."

Ken waved the meat at her. "That's a real shame. Unfortunately – and everyone else will tell you the same, so don't look down on me – you're going to have to move past it if you want to stay longer."

"I do! I do want to stay longer!" Isabelle said. "But I love all of you. You know that. Everyone knows that. It's so hard for me."

Ken studied her carefully. He knew she couldn't lie. She wore her emotions on her sleeves. He debated giving this advice, but he felt she needed it. "Thing is that people are going to use that love and your honesty against you."

Isabelle opened her mouth, possibly to argue, but she closed it and nodded sullenly.

Ken continued: "I bet people have tried, right?"

Isabelle slowly, ever-so-slowly, nodded.

"Try to think about who would use that honesty of yours selfishly and just ignore them. Never listen to them, because they'll say whatever they can to get your vote. And that vote of yours is more important to them than you."

Isabelle stared in shock at him. "But… the others…"

"Come on, Isabelle, you watched last game. People played honestly, like you want to. They were all eliminated. I know you're smart. You've got to play smart. Play honest, if you wish, but if you want to survive, play smart!"

There was a pause. Silence for the longest time. Then Isabelle whispered, "Okay." She looked up at him. "Thank you, Ken."

Ken saluted with the meat. "Best advice I'll give all game, if I'm honest."

Isabelle giggled. "Say, Ken, would you want to join an alliance with me? I'd like more advice."

Ken didn't hesitate. "You know, I haven't received any other offers. I don't think the others take me seriously. I'd be honored."

---

Chrom struck a tree, sliced it with his Falchion. He stepped back, charged forward, and stabbed it directly through its thickest part. It went through clean, as if the tree was butter. He removed it just as cleanly and heard a clap behind him. He turned and saw a red tiger grinning at him.

"Amazing, that sword of yours," said Incineroar.

Chrom stared at it in his hands. "Yes. An heirloom. One passed through my family through generations."

"I've heard the stories. Your ancestor made it far last game."

"I've fought him many times," said Chrom, smiling. "His reputation holds well. It is an honor to know him."

"A bit confusing, isn't it?"

"I've learned not to question the time travel in my life."

Incineroar snorted. "There's been more?"

"I have many tales," said Chrom, sheathing the Falchion with a chuckle. "Although, I've always wondered why Marth's Falchion looks so different from my own."

Incineroar mirrored the sword. "Didn't they just close the hilt?"

"It's a divine blade," said Chrom. "It'd take a divine blacksmith."

"Well… that's too much thought for me."

Chrom chuckled. "Hence why I've learned not to question it."

"Well, I can't say my adventures have been much less confusing," said Incineroar. "Alternate dimensions and… trans dimensional beasts…" He waved a dismissive hand. "Stories we've heard many times."

"Agreed. Less time reflecting on the past."

"Although, how does it feel competing against your daughter?"

Chrom beamed. "I don't realize it often, unless I see her in front of me. Fighting her in that challenge, feeling her strength, was my proudest moment. Even prouder than when we defeated Grima. I'm always proud of what she has become. I cannot wait until my own Lucina becomes that strong."

"Wait… she isn't your daughter?"

"She is, and she isn't." Chrom shook his head. "Time travel."

That was all the explanation Incineroar needed. "Ah, right. Well, I'm glad to hear it. Always nice to see a proud dad. I remember how proud my own trainer was when I beat , what a sight. His smile." He smiled at the sun. "I hope he beams just as brightly when I take this prize."

Chrom chuckled. "A worthy prospect, certainly. How will go about accomplishing that task?"

Incineroar opened his mouth to respond, but he closed it and waggled a finger at him. "Nice try," he said, knowingly. "I can't reveal all of my strategies to everyone. You've got to be special to get info out of me."

"That's certainly fair. Although, I'll admit I haven't seen any strategies out of you, yet. How do you propose on convincing the others?"

"Stop it," Incineroar said. "You're a good guy, Chrom, but we've got plenty of time before you're able to pry anything important out of me. Unless you're willing to give me something in return."

Chrom simply shrugged. "Words are all I have, unfortunately."

"And there lies the problem. No trust between us. I like you, but I need more than words to trust you."

"That's fair as well. Then, perhaps in the future, we may form that bond."

"Hopefully," said Incineroar. "I'd hate to eliminate you. Like I said: I like you. You're a good guy. It'd be hard for me to do it."

"But you'd do it all the same."

"Of course. I've got to make my trainer proud. I've got to win."

Special Event

At the North Tribe, Duck Hunt bounded back up to camp happily wagging his tail. He found Little Mac doing sit-ups near the beds, but as he reached him to bark for attention, Falco suddenly shouted, "Miis ahoy!"

Little Mac sat up, sweating slightly, and saw Duck Hunt next to him. "Morning. Did you find her?"

"I did, and I wanted to tell you-" But he was interrupted by a Mii approaching. "Oh boy."

"Oh boy?" Little Mac echoed, and then he turned around and saw the Mii. "Oh. What are you doing here?"

Others had noticed due to Falco's announcement, and they all gathered around three Miis. All but Dark Samus. But the Miis didn't wait for her to reveal herself. One stepped forward, a young man with blonde hair and blue eyes.

"We've been instructed to give you your first Special Event. This one will be extremely important, but only one survivor will win." Falco raised his wing, but the Mii ignored him. "Each tribe will choose four to compete for this reward. One will be chosen by the Tribe Leader, one will be a volunteer, and two will be chosen by the other tribe members."

"Oy, I raised my wing. That means something here, you know?" Falco said. The Mii slowly turned to him, so he continued. "So, okay, what's the reward?"

"A secret."

"Okay. So, if I choose myself, is that my choice, or is that a volunteer?" asked Falco.

"However you decide," said the Mii. "The first to volunteer will volunteer."

Falco, as always, was the first to speak. "I volunteer, then. And I choose Corrin as my buddy."

Corrin had her mouth open and finger pointed upward, but she stopped, smiling. "Thank you."

Falco nodded. "Don't think I didn't notice you on that boat."

She blushed slightly, and the Mii turned to the others. "Then two of you shall be chosen."

The others looked amongst each other. "Well, is it a voting thing?" asked Little Mac. "Majority rules?"

"However you decide," said the Mii.

"Oh, that's a test," said Falco. "If you want my input, as a veteran, I'd recommend you just draw straws. That way, no one's feelings are hurt."

"We don't have straws," said Greninja.

"Branches, then. Weeds. Grass. Anything you can pick to be as unbiased as possible."

At that, they turned to Isaac. He nodded and touched a patch of dirt. Seven blades of grass shot out of the earth, and Isaac plucked them. He shortened two of them and handed them to Falco, who shuffled them around.

"Alright. One by one."

One by one, they picked the blades, and then they simultaneously revealed their choices. They quickly determined that Isaac and Greninja had the shortest blades. The Miis took this as confirmation.

"Very well. Follow me, you four." And the trio marched into the trees.

"We'll let you know," said Corrin, smiling at those left behind. The other three waved as well, and she followed them, disappearing from the others.

---

The South Tribe received the same vague explanation from another trio of Miis helmed by a black woman with jet black hair. All eyes fell on Metaknight.

"What's your decision, leader?" asked Incineroar.

"Wait, who is the volunteer?" asked Ken.

"Whoever is first," said Mii.

Incineroar immediately shot up his hand. "Me! I'm the volunteer."

Metaknight gave him a stern look. "Do I have a say in his inclusion?"

"He has volunteered," said the Mii.

"Who do you choose?" asked Isabelle. "Who do we choose?"

Inkling grabbed her shoulders and started rubbing. "Who else but the purest of us?"

"Me?" asked Isabelle, blushing. "I don't know if I deserve that."

"Admittedly, I feel it justified," said Chrom. "I'd like to vote for her."

"Same!" said Inkling.

Although nobody else had the same vigor, nobody objected to the decision. Most eyes were still on Metaknight, who looked to each of them in turn. Finally, Metaknight said, "I'll choose Chrom."

"Me?" said Chrom. "Are you sure?"

"You wouldn't want to choose yourself?" asked Bayonetta. "Or an ally?"

"Maybe he has chosen an ally," said Shadow.

"Have you?" asked Chrom. "That would be a welcome surprise."

"I've made my choice," was Metaknight's simple response.

The Mii nodded. "The rest of you may choose one final member."

"I would also volunteer," said Bayonetta.

"I'd like to see what this reward is," said Inkling. "I think it'd be exciting."

"We'd all want to know," said Dark Pit. "We won't be able to decide."

"I don't care about the reward," said Mach Rider, firmly, and the others turned to him.

"Is that right?" asked Ken.

"Then decide," said Shadow. The others looked at him strangely. "He will be unbiased, or does anyone have an objection?"

"Nobody's unbiased," said Metaknight.

"Nobody will get a majority," said Bayonetta. She nodded. "I'd accept Mach Rider's decision."

Nobody else objected, so they looked to him. Mach Rider looked at each of them, and then he slowly pointed at Inkling.

Inkling grinned. "Excellent choice, man! I'll win this for us!"

"Really?" asked Bayonetta. "Why did you choose her over all of us?"

"She's a curious one," said Mach Rider.

Inkling wrapped her arm around Isabelle's shoulder and waved the other hand dismissively. "Please. I just asked him about his past. He's a sentimental man."

"Ah, so not unbiased," said Dark Pit. He gave Shadow a smirk. "Guess you were wrong about that."

Shadow didn't look perturbed. "I suppose so."

Isabelle giggled nervously. "I don't believe it's that simple."

But before Mach Rider could corroborate, the Miis waved them forward, and the quartet followed them into the jungle.

---

The East Tribe received an identical speech from a young Asian woman.

Mewtwo immediately said, "I will choose myself."

The Miis turned to the others, waiting for a follow-up.

Robin was the first to realize the implication. He raised his hand. "I'll volunteer, if that's acceptable." A nod from the Miis confirmed his request. He stood aside, and the Miis turned to the rest.

"Who do you choose?" They asked.

The tribe members looked at one another.

"What are we basing this off?" asked Ryu. "Desire to win? Ability? Strength?"

"Perhaps pure randomness," suggested Rosalina.

"How would we get that?" asked Pac-Man. "None of us is exactly unbiased."

"True," said Ryu. "We won't be able to get an unbiased result. Can you not decide?" He asked the Miis.

"You must decide," was their response.

"Who actually wants it?" asked Richter. "Another want to drop out? Make it easier for the rest of us?" Nobody stepped aside. "Okay… Who's got a plan?"

"A competition of strength?" asked King K Rool.

"We don't know if strength is necessary to win," said Ridley. "Competitions will waste time."

"Then I've got no other suggestion but eenie-meenie-miney-moe," said Pac-Man. "But no one will agree to that."

"Because it isn't unbiased," said Ridley. "It's a rather ridiculous decision-making process as well."

"Can Mewtwo not decide for us?" asked Rosalina.

"He cannot," said the Miis. "But he is not forbidden from participating."

"There you go!" Rosalina said cheerily, turning to the others. "Mewtwo can make things as unbiased as possible."

"Is that truly how we want to go about deciding this?" asked Ridley.

"With no one volunteering to step down, yes," said Richter. "Who else but Mewtwo can decide two of the seven of us?"

Mewtwo planted seven various-sized sticks into the sand so that they appeared even. He pointed at King K Rool. "Pick one. Whoever chooses the longest two will be the chosen." He looked to the Miis. "Will that be allowed?"

The Miis nodded, and King K Rool chose his stick. The rest of the tribe followed suit, and in the end, Pac-Man and Geno were the lucky two. The four followed the Miis out of camp.

---

The West Tribe heard a similar explanation from a white female Mii with brunette hair.

Villager immediately froze. "Okay, guys, I have no idea who to choose."

"Simple," said Cloud. "Choose whomever you believe will benefit the tribe."

Shulk nodded. "That's exactly it. You can choose yourself, but if you feel someone else will be better, you're the one free to choose."

"Ooh! Oooh!" Bowser Jr cried. "I volunteer! I'll be the best!"

"Is that really it?" asked Charizard. "He's the volunteer?"

"He's the volunteer," confirmed the Mii. "He spoke first."

Charizard snorted. "Course, no one competent could volunteer."

Bowser Jr glared at him. "I'm plenty competent! I won us our Immunity!"

"Because of your machine. Not because of you."

"If I didn't drive it perfectly, we would've lost."

Lucina smiled. "To be fair, he makes a valid argument."

"It doesn't matter," said Simon. "He volunteered. He won." He turned to Villager. "Who is your choice?"

"I have no idea," said Villager, half-laughing. "I don't know how I'm deciding!"

"Who you trust the most," said Charizard.

"That's a dangerous thing to reveal," said Villager.

"So, you're saying it isn't me," said Charizard.

Villager smiled grimly. "I didn't mean it like that."

"It's fair. I'll accept it."

"Great banter," said the Chorus Kids. "It doesn't help us!"

"That's true," said Villager. "Okay. Based purely randomly, I think it should be Cloud."

Cloud raised an eyebrow. "Purely random, is it?"

Villager nodded. "That's my story. I picked numbers, and Cloud was that number. Look, guys, I'm not clever enough to trick you."

"That's a lie," said Bowser Jr, snorting loudly.

"Shush," said the Chorus Kids. "You've had your chance!"

"We don't have a definite way to choose," said Shulk. "Is there a way to call a vote?"

Lucina pointed at Shulk, smiling. "I'll vote for him. Would anyone like to join me?"

There was the slightest of hesitations, and then other hands joined her. Shulk simply nodded at the decision, while Lucina nudged his shoulder.

"Anyone argue against Villager?" asked Charizard. "I think he deserves it."

"You don't believe you deserve it?" asked Villager. "Or anyone else?"

"Eh. You already volunteered for something annoying," said Charizard. Others slowly nodded. "You deserve this at least."

When nobody else objected – except the Chorus Kids, who were swiftly ignored – the Miis motioned the chosen quartet forward.

---

The sixteen chosen Survivors arrived at the center of the island, where Master Hand floated above a circular table. He motioned everyone forward, and the Survivors took spots at the table.

Falco looked around. "So, Metaknight was the only Tribe Leader not to choose himself?" He noted.

"We were as surprised as you," said Chrom. "He chose me instead."

"Lucky you," said Shulk. "Your daughter chose me."

Chrom raised an eyebrow. "Did she have the power to choose?"

"Not exactly, but she chose anyway."

"I didn't choose myself, either," said Villager. "The tribe chose me."

"Who'd you choose?" asked Geno.

Cloud raised a hand lazily.

"Got to admit, I'm sad Charizard isn't here," said Incineroar. "All of the Pokémon are here but him."

"He volunteered me," said Villager.

"Such an odd decision," said Greninja.

"I know, right?"

Inkling leaned over to Isabelle. "Oh, man, I feel bad for Metaknight. He really should be here," she whispered.

"I do, too," whispered Isabelle. "I hope he doesn't feel bad about missing out."

"If he is, it's his own fault," muttered Incineroar. "No offense, Chrom, but he shouldn't have chosen you."

"I completely understand," said Chrom. "I was as shocked as anyone."

"It's good that you have an in with your Tribe Leader," said Robin. "If nothing else, it's a powerful ally."

Chrom smiled. "Good to see you again."

Robin smiled back. "I hope I won't face the end of your sword this time." He nodded at Corrin. "Nor the end of yours."

Corrin gave him a bashful smile. "I would hope not. I'd hope this challenge is more cordial."

The others paused, giving Master Hand time to interrupt, but he continued to float above. Falco filled the silence by adding, "I think we'll be stuck at this table. No fighting."

"Maybe it'd be the first to flip the table?" suggested Pac-Man. "Or who can pull the table apart the fastest."

"Why only four of us, though," said Geno. "That's my main concern."

"Perfect tournament number," said Incineroar.

"Well there were tournaments at sixteen and eight last time," said Falco. "Right, Mewtwo? You were there for one of them."

Mewtwo barely glanced at him. He nodded slowly.

Falco grinned back. "Getting you out at ten helped us in the long run. You would've destroyed us in any real fight."

"I recall that I did," said Mewtwo. "Recently, in fact."

"I only wish I could've participated as well," said Isaac. "I should've volunteered earlier."

"It was wise of you not to," said Chrom. "We don't know your power as well as each other."

Isaac smiled sadly. "But I'm proud of my powers."

"We've faced your hand far too many times to count," said Incineroar. "I think you would've pushed everyone out before they could've reacted."

"Moved," said Isaac.

"Same difference."

"Well, not quite…"

"Is anyone else getting impatient?" asked Bowser Jr. He waved up at Master Hand. "Hey, host, are we going to play? I want to win!"

Silence from above. "What are you waiting for?" demanded Bowser Jr. "I want to play!"

"Patience, please," said Isabelle.

"He wants us to talk to each other," said Chrom. "How often do we talk across tribes like this?"

"Maybe this is how Special Events will be in the future," said Robin. "More of a chance to communicate with others."

"Lord knows it never happened last time," said Falco. "A lot of shenanigans could've gone down if we could've made cross-tribe alliances last time."

There was a long pause as the others considered his last point.

"Well, who's willing to make an alliance right now?" asked Pac-Man. "In front of everyone."

"Are you joking or genuinely asking?" said Incineroar.

"Depends on how you took it," said Pac-Man.

"I definitely wouldn't agree to that," said Villager. "I don't know you that well."

"Yes, a sixteen-person alliance would have no chance of surviving," said Robin. "It'd be foolish to try."

"But no one else knows," said Inkling. "They'd never find out, right?"

"It would only take one person to ruin any secret plans," said Geno. "It's impossible."

"Impossible unless we put faith in each other," said Shulk.

"Faith that we don't really have, considering we'd only have chances to talk during challenges," said Cloud.

"Fair," admitted Shulk. "But is that really the hardest challenge we'd face?"

"Hardest to enforce," said Greninja. "As Geno said, it only takes one to ruin it for all."

"Isn't that the same with our in-tribe alliances?" asked Inkling.

"But there are more immediate consequences there," said Greninja. "With a plan like what was just proposed, if one of the sixteen of us-"

"Bowser Jr," muttered Cloud.

"Hey! I'm not a snitch!" argued Bowser Jr.

"You have a huge mouth," said Villager.

"-told someone else," Greninja continued. "Those plans would spread across the game. Then we'd be the targets."

"But everyone could just as easily think that already, even if we do nothing," said Isaac. "After all, we're the only ones who know what we're discussing."

"Suspicion against us because we were chosen for this event," said Robin quietly.

As the others silently pondered this thought, Master Hand floated down, as if this very line of thinking was where he wanted to end the discussion.

"Welcome, chosen Survivors, for your first Special Event," he announced. "I will begin by revealing this to you all: although sixteen of you are here, only one will win this reward. Periodically throughout this event, you all will be knocked out of this particular competition and asked to leave the clearing. As a result, when we near the end, only a few of you will even be aware of what the reward is."

As he paused, Mewtwo gave Falco and Villager knowing looks. Both of them slowly, ever-so-slowly, responded with recognition. Falco sat back and smirked. Villager clutched his pocket instinctively.

"To begin, you will watch the person directly across from you. This effectively means it is North against South and East against West for the first round."

"You didn't plan that, right?" asked Incineroar.

"No. We didn't designate seating arrangements; that was your unknowing choice. We expected it, though. Now, each round will be a game of knowledge and interpretation." As Master Hand spoke, several Miis approached the table and placed a deck of ten cards in front of each player. "Every round will involve this deck of cards with various rules. For this round, both you and your opponent will choose a number and place it on the table. You'll reveal it simultaneously, and whatever number you choose you will give to your opponent. Whoever has the highest number will lose. If there is a tie, both will lose. So, for example, if both you and your opponent choose ten, you will both be eliminated. If you choose ten, but your opponent chooses nine, you will win because you gave ten to your opponent. Is that simple enough?"

Many stared at their deck of cards. Some nodded. Others looked confused but said nothing.

"If all are ready, we will begin. I'll count down from ten." Master Hand started counting down, and the Survivors shuffled through their deck of cards. "Three. Two. One."

All sixteen cards were revealed. Falco picked nine against Robin's ten; Isabelle chose five against Bowser Jr's ten; Corrin and Mewtwo tied at nine; Incineroar chose ten against Cloud's eight; Greninja chose ten against Pac-Man's nine; Chrom and Shulk tied at ten; Isaac chose ten against Geno's nine; Inkling chose ten against Villager's nine.

After tallying, Master Hand announced, "Robin, Bowser Jr, Incineroar, Greninja, Isaac, and Inkling have survived. Everyone else, I'm afraid you must return to your tribes."

"That's it?" said Falco, standing up. "No fanfare?"

"Not this time."

Falco patted Isaac and Greninja's shoulders. "Good luck you guys."

"Yes, win for us," said Corrin.

Greninja nodded, and Isaac flashed a thumbs up. "We'll do our best," said the latter.

Chrom shook Shulk's hand. "It seems we're of similar minds."

"I guess so," said Shulk, chuckling. "I felt we knew each other too well."

"Perhaps." Chrom leaned in. "Keep my daughter safe, okay?" Before Shulk could respond, Chrom smiled and walked away. Both returned to their eliminated tribemates and wished their surviving members good luck.

Others shook hands as well, aiming to leave as courteously as possible. Bowser Jr gave Isabelle an extremely smug grin as he shook her hand.

"You played the fool," he said.

"I'll admit, I did not understand this game as much as I wished," said Isabelle. "I'm surprised you went so high."

"Consider me an enigma. A mystery."

"Nothing's mysterious about you," Cloud muttered.

Bowser Jr stuck his tongue out at him. "Who's still in this event, and who's eliminated?"

Cloud nodded at Incineroar. "Someone more willing to win than me."

"That's a bad attitude to have," said Incineroar. "You gotta try to win!"

"Not this event," said Cloud.

"I'm going to win this event," said Bowser Jr. "And no one will know what it is!"

"Whatever you say," said Villager. "We'll see you in a few minutes empty-handed."

Bowser Jr glared at him. "Quit underestimating me! I'll prove you wrong!"

But his tribe dismissed him and left. The other three tribes disappeared soon after, leaving just the six remaining.

"Well, it's fortuitous that we've ended with an even number," said Master Hand. "Please remove cards four through ten. Then face the competitor across from you."

Robin faced Isaac; Greninja faced Inkling; Incineroar faced Bowser Jr. Master Hand continued, "Now, pick the number you believe your opponent will choose. Then choose a number. This may take multiple rounds if necessary, but we'll go quick. I'll give you a minute to think, and then we'll begin."

The Survivors studied their opponents' faces and body language. And then each of the six chose cards. Master Hand waited until the final card was chosen. "Now then, let's begin. Predict your opponent's card."

Six cards were laid face down on the table.

Before Master Hand could continue, Robin raised his hand. "I'm sorry, but I have to ask, we now only have two cards to choose from. Is that part of the strategy?"

"Yes, it is. Choose."

Everyone chose their own cards. "Now, reveal."

Robin chose one and predicted Isaac's three. Isaac chose three and predicted a two. Greninja chose one and predicted Inkling's three. Inkling chose three and predicted Greninja's one. Incineroar predicted a two, chose a one; Bowser Jr predicted a three, chose a two.

"After the first round, it seems Robin and Incineroar are the victors. Inkling and Greninja have tied, and Bowser Jr and Isaac have lost."

"A tie means we're both out?" asked Inkling.

"I'm afraid so. It was a valiant effort," said Master Hand.

"Wouldn't exactly call pulling cards 'valiant'," said Inkling. Incineroar chuckled.

"See you back at camp," he said, waving.

"Let me know what the prize is," said Inkling.

Isaac and Greninja, Inkling, and Bowser Jr left without much fanfare, leaving just the finalists.

"So, logical against unpredictable," said Incineroar with a wink. "Seems perfect to me."

"You may overestimate your unpredictability," said Robin, smiling. "But it will be an interesting competition."

"Before we begin, I'm going to reveal the prize to both of you," said Master Hand. "It will be up to you to determine whether you may reveal this information."

As he finished, the Miis walked out of the jungle holding an Immunity Necklace. Robin gasped, while Incineroar looked at it strangely.

"What is it?" asked the tiger. "Looks pretty."

"It's extremely valuable," said Robin.

"It's an Immunity Necklace," said Master Hand. "During Tribal Council, after votes are cast but before the results are read, you may present a necklace, and any votes you may have received will be nullified."

"Oh, a get-out-of-jail free necklace," said Incineroar.

"Extremely powerful if you can predict your eliminations," said Robin. "Useless if you guess wrong."

Incineroar chuckled. "Well, it's pretty obvious you'd use it better than me."

"And both of us will know who has it," said Robin. He shook his head. "Clever."

"I don't think it'll matter right now," said Incineroar. "Honestly, if you win, I'd only tell someone if you were against me on my own tribe. Otherwise, I won't care."

"Admirable. I'll return the proposition," said Robin. He extended his hand, and Incineroar shook it. "Then, what is the game, Master Hand?"

While they'd spoken, the Miis had replaced the cards with a blue and a red crystal. Master Hand said, "Hold both." They obeyed. "Put them behind your back. Shuffle them. Then hold up one crystal, cupped tight in your palm so the other can't see." They obeyed again, studying each other as closely as possible. "Now say what you believe the other is holding."

"Red," said Robin immediately.

"You think I'm that conceited?" asked Incineroar coyly.

"I think you have a particular favorite color," said Robin.

"I think you don't know me that well," said Incineroar. "Red."

"Reveal your crystals," said Master Hand.

Both did so. Robin dropped a red crystal; Incineroar dropped a blue. Robin watched the crystal clatter on the table and shook his head.

"You'd be correct," said Robin. "Consider me glad not to be on your tribe."

"Consider me extremely glad that I won something like this," said Incineroar. "This really could be my ticket out of elimination. I don't know what I'm doing in this competition." The Miis approached with the necklace and he snatched it from them.

Robin chuckled. "Interesting admission. You don't have a plan?"

"Not at all," said Incineroar. "People are already onto my strategy of being a heel. It'd be fun for me, but I wouldn't win."

"Then be honest," said Robin. "Get others' trust. Start convincing them. It's not hard if you keep consistent."

"Incredible advice," said Incineroar, shaking his hand. "But hard for me. Impossible, in a way."

Robin motioned toward the necklace. "Then, at least you have one way to escape elimination."

"Like I said, much more useful on you. Really, it's best I took it from you. Otherwise you might win the whole thing."

"Don't overestimate me that much," said Robin, chuckling. "I couldn't outwit you. I'm certainly fallible."

Master Hand floated in between them, interrupting their banter. "An excellent competition, Survivors. Congratulations on your Immunity Necklace, Incineroar. Be careful how you use its power. It was used to great effect last competition. Robin, you know who owns it, so you have the power to reveal it to the world if you wish."

"Secret's safe with me," said Robin.

Incineroar smirked. "But, if we're ever on the same tribe, I'm always open to join your alliance."

"Duly noted."

"Please leave the arena, and I will see you tomorrow for your Immunity Challenge."

The remaining Survivors shook hands one final time and left.

West Tribe

As they watched their four tribe members follow the Miis, the rest glanced at each other awkwardly.

"Why did you volunteer Villager?" The Chorus Kids swung on Charizard, hands on hips, glaring. "We could've made plans if he stayed. It would've been perfect!"

"What plans?" Charizard asked, looking down at them. "Who's 'we'?"

Chorus Kids jabbed fingers at him and then at Lucina. "Us, Bowser Jr, and Villager, obviously! What we all discussed over the past few days."

"I don't recall any true agreement," said Lucina. "I recall stating that I hadn't been proposed an alliance, but I certainly-"

Charizard snorted. "I remember it like it was yesterday. You jumped at the opportunity to join them and their amazing alliance. I tried to hold you back, but you were incredibly eager."

Lucina smirked back. "As I recall, you leapt in the air and looped thrice in excitement," she said, mirroring the motion with a finger. "The sky lit up for hours with your flames."

Kazooie leaned forward and whispered into her partner's ear, "I may be reading too much into this, but I think they're being a bit sarcastic."

"What gave you that idea?" asked Banjo.

"Come now, this display is ridiculous," said Simon. "Chorus Kids, you can't possibly believe anyone has agreed to this alliance of yours."

"Of course we can!" The Chorus Kids shouted. "Didn't you hear what they said? They were both jumping for joy yesterday!"

"Wasn't actually yesterday," muttered Charizard.

"I certainly had no joy," said Lucina. "My friend Charizard, on the other hand, was excit-"

"Stop."

Lucina closed her mouth, smiling innocently. "I feel as if this is a rumor that's spread too far."

"Not much of a rumor," said Banjo. "We all knew pretty quickly."

"Yes, these three have little subtlety," said Simon.

"What are you saying?" asked the Chorus Kids.

"Alliance was never real," said Charizard, blatantly. "Really, I'm annoyed you couldn't pick up on that immediately."

"Why would you lie to us?" demanded the Chorus Kids. They turned to Lucina. "You too?"

Lucina frowned. "Truly, I told you no lie. I was as honest as I could be. I'm sorry if you misinterpreted me, but I assure you I promised nothing."

"I'm not sorry," said Charizard. "You should've known better."

The Chorus Kids stared at them in silence, and then they hung their heads in shame and silently walked away. The others watched them leave.

"Well, that killed the mood," muttered Kazooie.

"Anything to keep them from screaming," said Charizard.

"It was best to ensure they understood the situation," said Simon. "At least they will refrain from bothering you all."

"It just means they'll target you next," said Charizard.

"They may still go after Villager," said Banjo. "They still think he's part of them."

"Oh, have they asked him?" asked Lucina. "I hadn't been made aware."

"Disappointing," said Banjo, shaking his head. "You don't even know who's in your alliance."

"I suppose it was destined to fail from the beginning," said Lucina.

---

An hour later, the chosen quartet returned simultaneously, none looking happy. The others gathered around and learned about the competitions.

"So, no one knows what the reward was?" asked Banjo. "That's a crying shame."

"I'm afraid so," said Villager. "Bowser Jr disappointed us all."

"Please, as far as you know the twerp just tricked you all," said Charizard.

"Doubtful," said Cloud. "He wheeled up to us just minutes after we left."

"He would've bragged about it if he'd won," said Kazooie.

"That's not fair!" said Bowser Jr. "I can keep a secret. I certainly wouldn't have told you if I won."

"You would've told us, right?" asked the Chorus Kids, betraying slight hope.

"Sure, I would've. I would've told everyone in the alliance!"

"And who's in your alliance again?" asked Charizard.

"No, not again," Simon groaned.

Shulk heard this, and he looked at Lucina in confusion. She gave him a guilty smile and shrugged.

"Why'd you ask-" Bowser Jr began, and then he smiled. "Ah, right, who is in the alliance? That's a real secret. I'm glad you asked. I guess it'll remain a mystery for now."

Kazooie rolled her eyes. "You see, this is why I think he'd have bragged about it. Kid's got the subtlety of a washing machine."

"Which is probably how he lost," said Cloud. "Too busy gloating about defeating Isabelle to consider his opponent."

"Hey, at least I made it farther than you!"

"True."

Bowser Jr opened his mouth, ready to counter, but with no argument he closed it.

"You haven't told us who were in the finals, though," said Simon.

"I haven't," Bowser Jr said, nodding smugly. "A little nugget of information you'll never have!"

"I'm sure we'll find out eventually," said Cloud.

"It might be an awful surprise, though," said Villager, the one soul who knew what the prize likely would've been. He wished Bowser Jr would admit it. "I think it'd be best if we knew, so we could counter it."

"And it's such a shame you never will," said Bowser Jr. He rolled away. "Oh well. Good luck without help!"

Charizard shook his head. "Some way to treat your alliance."

"Stop," Lucina said sternly, as the Chorus Kids perked their heads up in hope. They saw his expression and returned to their disappointment.

North Tribe

Before their chosen had even disappeared into the trees, Duck Hunt gripped Little Mac's shorts in his teeth and pulled.

"Hold on, there," said Little Mac. "What's gotten into you?"

"I need to show you something," Duck Hunt grumbled. "Come on!"

The boxer looked up at the others, asking for help. Daisy put her hands on her hips. "Duck Hunt, you can tell the rest of us. Did you find her?"

At that, the dog's tail stiffened. He slowly sat down and shook his head, refusing to look her in the eye. "No, I didn't."

"I've seen enough dogs to know when they're feeling guilty," said Daisy.

"Ah, so he did find her," said Palutena. She smiled. "Well, you were right. You tracked her better than I could. Good work!"

Duck Hunt started wagging his tail, and he perked up. "Oh, thanks! I knew I could do it!"

"What did you two discuss?" asked Megaman.

Duck Hunt stared at the robot. "Uh… she asked me to bring Little Mac. Without the rest of you knowing." He hesitated. "Uh oh."

"Why wouldn't she want us knowing?" asked Palutena.

"Did she happen to exclude Megaman?" asked Daisy.

"No, she didn't mention him."

"You see! I'm completely innocent of whatever you're accusing me!" said Megaman. "Can you please stop mentioning it."

"Would you then vote for Dark Samus?" asked Palutena.

"No! She's done nothing wrong!" Megaman's cry was met with noticeable disapproval. "What? Aren't we supposed to give everyone a chance? Bowser won last game despite being a villain."

"Yes, but Bowser's reasonable," said Daisy.

"To a point, sure. I won't forgive him for what he put Pit through," said Palutena quietly.

"Dark Samus is just… evil. That's the point of her, I think," said Daisy. "Heck, I don't even think she's a 'she', right? She's just an it."

"Embodiment of corruption," said Palutena, nodding. "One desire of corrupting everything."

"But she hasn't!" said Megaman. "You're placing blame on her, when there is none."

"Say something bad about her," said Daisy.

"No!" said Megaman.

Palutena looked at Duck Hunt. "You called her evil earlier."

Duck Hunt's ears drooped. "I didn't! Honestly!"

"You said I could sense evil," said Palutena. "Those were your words, referring to Dark Samus, of course. You called her evil."

"I didn't," Duck Hunt repeated, quietly.

"I definitely heard you say that," said Little Mac.

"I didn't," muttered Megaman.

"Well, I did as well," said Daisy. "Duck Hunt, call her evil again."

"No! She's not evil!"

Daisy and Palutena looked at each other. "I feel Greninja's plan worked," said the latter. "She got to him."

"What are you talking about?" demanded Megaman. "What do you mean 'she got to him'?"

The girls ignored him and turned to Little Mac. "You see, don't you?"

"Oh yeah, I definitely do," Little Mac nodded. "Sorry, little pup, but I'm not going to go into that jungle and face Dark Samus alone."

"But she just wanted to talk to you!"

Little Mac knelt down and patted his head, and he leaned into it happily. "She can talk to the whole tribe if she wants. She isn't signaling me out."

Megaman sighed loudly. "You people are ridiculous."

Palutena simply smiled. "I hope you can be cured, Megaman. I really don't want to see you go down like this."

"Ridiculous," Megaman snapped bitterly.

---

Not long later, the chosen returned empty-handed. Isaac and Greninja revealed the two finalists, disappointing the tribe.

"So, we have no real information," said Falco. "Eh, what can you do?"

"I hope Incineroar won," said Daisy. "I can only imagine what prize they won."

"Nothing good for the rest of us," said Greninja.

"In that case, I think Robin would be better," said Little Mac. "He's much less destructive."

"More analytical, though," said Isaac. "If it was an Immunity Necklace, imagine what type of power he'd have."

That gave them pause. "Huh… Immunity Necklace," Falco muttered. "I mean, around this time, a reward challenge gave three people those necklaces."

"Maybe they both got them," said Daisy.

"That would certainly be terrifying," said Corrin.

"I can't imagine Robin losing with an Immunity Necklace," said Isaac. "He'd be unstoppable."

"A huge threat," said Greninja, nodding.

"Speaking of threats, though, your plan worked," said Palutena.

Greninja looked down at Duck Hunt, who'd been sulking quietly. "Ah, excellent. Then the secret is known."

"Calling it a secret isn't entirely accurate," said Daisy.

Megaman rolled his eyes. "This ridiculous logic again."

"Where is our lovable corruption, anyway?" asked Falco. "Has she really been hiding in the trees this entire time?"

"Duck Hunt found her," said Little Mac. "Tried to get me to talk to her alone."

"Did you do it?" asked Falco. "How corrupted do you feel?"

"I'm entirely under her control, actually."

"Ah, good, at least you'd admit it, unlike these others."

"Enough!" Megaman shouted. "I feel no different than when I began this competition. I'm tired of everyone assuming I've somehow been affected by her. I think nothing of her."

"Say something bad about her," said Palutena. "Anything bad. Anything negative."

Megaman opened his mouth, and then he closed it, glaring. "No! I'm not going to obey you for no reason!"

"It's proof to see if you've been corrupted," said Falco. "Honestly, it's like we haven't explained this to you before."

"I still refuse!"

The others nodded at each other. "Really, I think her plan was flawed from the beginning," said Palutena. "Working from the shadows simply wouldn't work."

"Well, she's a machine, right?" asked Falco. "Maybe she analyzed last game and tried using those strategies, not realizing we'd have to adapt."

"Could she have succeeded last game, though?" asked Isaac. "I don't even believe it'd work then."

"You don't realize how much slower we've all acted this time compared to last," said Falco, chuckling. "By this point, we'd established alliances, argued about them, tried betraying each other. It was wonderful."

"Yes, but if you had Dark Samus last time, you would've united against her then, too," said Daisy.

"We had Wario. Just as bad, really. Didn't do any corruption. Just a real pain in the ass."

"I felt bad for him," said Corrin. "I wanted him to find some sort of unity."

"Can't go against your nature," said Little Mac. "He's always been selfish and greedy. That doesn't translate well into this game."

"Is Bowser not selfish and greedy as well?" asked Greninja.

"He would've been eliminated much earlier if others hadn't shown their true colors," said Daisy. "Trust me, I was pulling for his elimination after how much he tortured my poor Luigi. But then Young Link did his pathetic coup and lost, and then Bowser found an alliance."

"And then he switched to the South Tribe and was low on their priorities," added Isaac. "So he was safe. And then Kirby bonded with him."

"So, that is all we need," said Corrin, chuckling. "An opposite to balance us out."

"Not the worst strategy," muttered Little Mac.

The conversation died off soon after as they considered this line of thinking. They'd inadvertently come to a simple point: no matter their personality and background, everyone had a chance to win if they played the game properly.

East Tribe

After the Miis escorted their tribemates away, the others separated. Rosalina found Ryu meditating in a clearing. She smiled to herself, recalling an identical situation.

As she expected, her target sensed her immediately upon her approach. Ryu held up a palm and slowly, without opening his eyes, rose to his feet.

"Is there something you need?" He asked.

Rosalina twirled her wand, a sparkle in her eyes. "A proposition, in fact. I don't know if you've been approached about alliances yet."

"There've been mentions," said Ryu. "Nothing definite."

"May I propose a definite alliance?" asked Rosalina. Before he could respond, she continued, "Mewtwo and I have entered into one, and we've chosen you as a third member."

Ryu stared her down, trying to find any deception in those eyes. "Why?"

"He wanted your strength and determination," said Rosalina. "I agreed. He's, of course, in his own competition, so I'd like to ask for the both of us."

"An alliance of three will not get far," said Ryu.

"Nor will an alliance of one."

Ryu nodded. "A fair point. I'd want to hear from Mewtwo himself before I accept."

"I understand that completely," said Rosalina. "When he returns, we'll convene and formally propose. I'd simply like you to consider this, in case others approach you while our Tribe Leader is away."

"Understandable," said Ryu, sitting back down. "We'll wait until then."

Rosalina nodded and quietly left the clearing, smiling to herself.

---

Richter cooked a slab of beef on a middling fire when he felt eyes on him. He recalled briefly that Geno was away, and he could sense evil in those eyes behind him. He looked around and saw nothing, but he knew he wasn't alone. Finally, as his meat finished cooking, he plated it and stared directly at the bushes.

"Whoever you are – probably K Rool – you aren't subtle. I can feel your strained eye from here."

Silence. He rolled his eyes. "I'm the last person who'd be intimidated by this stalking."

"Funny," said a quiet voice from the trees nearby. "I've sensed a number of prey who had that as their last thought."

"Unfortunately for you," said Richter, rounding on the voice. "I know you won't hurt me, and I know I can defeat you."

"I've known prey who've thought that as well," said the voice.

"Damn it, it's one of you two. Probably Ridley. The croc wouldn't make such a show of this."

Yellow eyes flashed in the brush. "Yeah, Ridley, you aren't as intimidating as you feel you are," said Richter. "What do you want?"

Ridley slowly stepped out of the brush, towering over Richter. The vampire hunter merely tore a piece out of the beef and chewed. "You didn't speak out against us yesterday."

"A mistake," Richter muttered, mouth full. "I didn't have proof. Just my word against yours."

"Yet you didn't argue."

"I know you're cleverer than me," said Richter. "I can't dispute that. Honestly, losing Wii Fit Trainer wasn't the worst thing that could've happened to our tribe. I don't like that she was used as a scapegoat."

"As far as the tribe is concerned, she's the culprit," said Ridley.

"Yeah. I'm fine with that as the truth, even though we both know different. But you stood up for him, which I don't understand."

"He's useful," said Ridley. "You could be useful as well."

Richter recalled Geno's warning. "I'd be useful to a lot of people. And, unlike you, people would absolutely trust me."

"I can be extremely convincing."

"But you'll always have that purple dragon part of you that people will doubt," said Richter. "You're brilliant, Ridley, but you aren't even the smartest person on this tribe."

A pause. "An obstacle I will easily overcome."

"I wish you all the best with that," said Richter. "You won't convince me to abandon my morals."

"Yet you've let evil creatures get away with a scheme of which you knew," said Ridley. "Does that not betray your morals?"

Richter stared at his remaining meat in thought. "I know I have to be smart about this," he muttered. "Maybe… maybe it isn't the most moral way about it, but I'll find away. I just know I will never join your side."

"I never invited you to join. Consider your options carefully, vampire hunter. There is a power you cannot comprehend."

"Is that the best threat you have?" Richter asked the air. There was no response. He quietly finished his meat, wondering if there was more to that remark.

---

Eventually, the others returned. Pac-Man announced quickly that there were no victors. Robin corroborated by claiming Incineroar won.

"What did he win?" Richter asked the obvious question.

"Unfortunately, I do not know," answered Robin. "Whatever happened, it was after he chose my crystal."

"How did he outsmart you?" asked Ryu.

"A question I'll ask myself a long time," Robin admitted. "I thought I knew him. He proved that I did not. It's unfortunate."

"Given your history, I feel you should've had a better chance of winning," said Geno.

"Perhaps," said Robin. "Maybe I simply misplayed my advantage. I feel Incineroar's cunning extends beyond his desire to strike peoples' nerves."

"He's certainly deeper than would appear," said Mewtwo. "One look at him could decide that."

"Maybe amongst Pokémon," said Pac-Man. "I can't tell what the guy is thinking."

"It may be a more esoteric skill," said Mewtwo. "But one that can be learned in time."

"I'd love to be taught it," said Pac-Man. "But I won't have to compete against him again. Why should I care?"

"Are you implying that you'd be eliminated or that he'd be eliminated?" asked Geno. "Because the former is far more likely."

Pac-Man gasped loudly. "How could you say that?"

"Using his mouth, obviously," King K Rool muttered.

Rosalina giggled. "A skill that some could utilize better, no doubt."

"Plenty of people could," said Geno. "That's their downfall."

"Wise words from the puppet," said Ridley. "A competitor who suffers no true consequences."

"I can still hear the words coming out of your mouth," Geno retorted. "Which is suffering enough, I feel."

"Hearing you guys argue is suffering to us," Pac-Man muttered.

The instigators noticed others silently agreeing, so they quieted. Rosalina turned to Robin. "What do you believe was the prize?"

"I'm not the one to ask," said Robin. "Something only for one. Perhaps an Immunity Necklace?"

"Oh, then we're fine," said King K Rool. "Incineroar with a necklace? He'd throw it away!"

"As would you," said Ryu.

"I'd agree," said King K Rool, nodding. "Using those things… they require more analytical minds than my own."

Eyes fell upon Robin now. A suspicion started to grow. Robin sensed it and quickly said, "You may check my pockets, my belongings, whatever you wish to feel confident. I assure you I did not receive any necklace. I lost, and I received no prize."

Some stared hard into his eyes, reading his face. Geno stared the longest, but Robin kept his gaze until the puppet nodded.

"Then we're safe in the future," said Geno. "I'm in agreement; I feel Incineroar with a necklace is no more a threat than one without."

"How big of a threat is that?" asked Richter. "Someone unpredictable like that? Destined to be an antagonizer?"

"Still a threat. Not a game-breaking threat," said Geno. "One we will not have to concern ourselves with for many days."

"Thankfully," said Ryu. "One of us with a necklace would be a problem."

They nodded and eventually separated. Mewtwo cursed his inability to read faces; he'd have known if Robin truly was lying. He was suddenly much more grateful to Rosalina for convincing him to agree to an alliance. Necklace or not, he was safer with Robin on his side. He made a note to speak to him when possible.

South Tribe

As the four left with the Miis, Bayonetta leant down to Metaknight. "I do hope you have a plan for not choosing yourself. I feel the other Tribe Leaders will not miss this opportunity."

Metaknight smiled behind his mask. "A risk I'm willing to take. I have people to discuss a potential alliance with. If you'd like to join, I'd certainly allow it."

"An opportunity I shall not miss."

The rest of the tribe dispersed without a word. The pair caught up with Mach Rider and Dark Pit and brought them together, away from the others.

"This is a surprise," Dark Pit said, chuckling. "I didn't think you'd choose me."

"We haven't," said Bayonetta, twirling her lollipop. She winked. "Nothing's decided yet, love."

"Oh. Well, then why are we here?"

"To gauge your thoughts," said Metaknight. "Our alliance is no surprise anymore."

"It's definitely a surprise," said Dark Pit.

"Not anymore," said Bayonetta. "Not thanks to a certain friend of yours."

Dark Pit blinked. "Shadow's no friend."

"Think we haven't noticed your little flights up in the trees?" asked Bayonetta.

"Shadow's not a friend," Dark Pit repeated, sternly. "I've talked with everyone here. Not just him."

"So, what are his plans?" asked Bayonetta. "What was his thought process behind his outburst?"

At that, Dark Pit shrugged. "I asked him not too long ago. He just told me he needed to make friends. Didn't tell me who. Or how." He paused, seeing their uncertain looks, and added, "He hasn't really told me anything."

"Your desperation is pathetic," Mach Rider said quietly, and all eyes fell on him. "The more you insist there's no relation, the more you reveal your lies."

"I'm not lying," said Dark Pit.

"You spoke with him more than most. Of anyone here, you are his friend."

"He basically disowned me after I told him I wanted nothing to do with him."

"Then it looks like you have no friends," said Bayonetta, smirking.

"Hence the desperation," added Metaknight.

"This is some way to invite me into an alliance," said Dark Pit. "Constantly berate and insult me. What kind of loyalty is that?"

Metaknight considered him. "There's no invitation. We've had our fun."

Dark Pit opened his mouth in surprise. Then he said, "You're kidding."

"You heard your leader," said Bayonetta. She shooed him away. "Leave. Go on."

Dark Pit gave them dark looks and then walked through the trees. Mach Rider watched him go and then looked back at them.

"It was foolish to invite him."

"We were on the fence," said Bayonetta. "Isn't that right?"

"You made an appropriate observation," said Metaknight. "His relationship with Shadow makes him an unreliable ally."

"That was obvious from the beginning," said Mach Rider.

"You have no true relationship," said Metaknight.

"Except with Inkling, apparently," added Bayonetta with a chuckle.

"She inquired about my past," said Mach Rider. "I rewarded that curiosity, perhaps as consolation for not answering her questions."

"Good on her for asking," said Bayonetta, clapping. "I hope you understand we do not care."

"That's enough for me."

"Excellent! Metaknight, are you satisfied?"

"I am. Would you like to join our alliance?"

Mach Rider studied them both, and then he nodded. "Is this the alliance? The three of us? We will need a majority."

"We'll get that majority," said Bayonetta. "We have others to consider."

---

Ken was kicking the bark off a tree when he felt a presence suddenly appear behind him. He paused mid-kick, swung around, and saw Shadow standing safely behind him.

"Do you do that often?" He asked.

Shadow smirked. "Do you take your frustration out on nature?"

"I'm training."

"I'm sure that's a worthy opponent."

"Putting up a great fight, honestly," said Ken, smiling. "Unless you'd like to spar?"

"I'd rather not," said Shadow. "I'd like to discuss your allies."

Ken immediately stepped back, shaking his head. "Oh, no, I was there. We all know about your beef with Metaknight and Bayonetta. I'm not drowning with you."

Shadow frowned. "Is that how you want to play this game? Like a coward?"

"If saving my skin makes me a coward, and prodding the bull like you did makes you brave, then consider me a coward. What were you thinking?"

"I'd hoped others would understand my frustration. No other calls to action except from two of the strongest members of this tribe. Do you just want to let yourselves be eliminated one by one until only their alliance remains?"

"Of course not!"

"Then how do you propose we beat them?" asked Shadow. "If not by aligning against them?"

"Why didn't you say that last night?" asked Ken. "You just called them out and teleported away!"

"I wanted you all to come to this conclusion on your own. I didn't want to be the one to direct your thoughts. I'm not a puppet maser like some other players. I told you all the facts of our tribe, yet nobody came to the conclusion they should've."

"Please," Ken scoffed. "Metaknight and Bayonetta are strong and hold a lot of power together. Fight against them or lose." He snorted. "What a provocative message! Truly something only a mastermind would discover! Shadow, it's not what you said that convinced no one. It's what you didn't say, which apparently was your entire argument."

Shadow stared at him, and then he said, "But you understand my message. You understand the urgency."

"Absolutely. But aligning with you, after what you did – and didn't do – would be the dumbest decision I could make. At least by staying neutral, even if I'm not invited into the power alliance, I have a chance at slipping under the radar. If I go with you, with no one else as backup, I'm gone as soon as you're out."

"There will be others."

"Really? Who? Bring five of us together, and I'm in."

"I'll do just that." Shadow teleported away.

Ken shook his head. "Good luck with that," he muttered, resuming his training.

---

Eventually, their chosen returned. Inkling and Isabelle held onto each other, recounting their defeat. Chrom held his head high. Incineroar looked the worst. His eyes sunken, his fur matted, and his demeanor completely changed. Everyone noticed.

"Oh, he took it bad," said Inkling. "When he caught up to me, I thought we was going to cry."

"I wasn't," Incineroar muttered. "But, damn it, I had it in my hands! I just had to choose the damn blue crystal, but red crossed my mind first."

"Wonder why," Dark Pit muttered.

"What did you have?" asked Ken. "You forgot that important detail."

"Immunity Necklace!" Incineroar cried. "You know what I would've done with that?"

Metaknight felt Bayonetta's eyes on him. Inkling raised a hand. "Probably very little."

"I would've kept myself alive!" said Incineroar. "You know how important those things are? They're always used perfectly!"

"You really believe you'd have used yours to escape elimination?" asked Ken. "Am I the only one who has doubts?"

"Come now," said Chrom. "He lost his chance at possible safety. There's no need to insult him further."

"Yeah, you guys are being really rude to him," said Isabelle. "Is that really how we want to treat our tribemates?"

There was a noticeable pause after Isabelle's scolding. Metaknight then asked, "Do you mean to say that Robin has an Immunity Necklace?"

"Oh, trust me, that feeling of dread you're having is exactly what I felt," said Incineroar. "He has that kind of power."

"I'd hoped they'd brought it back," said Inkling. "I don't want it in Robin's hands, though."

"That's terrifying," said Dark Pit. He shook his head. "Guess we'll have another Lucario on our hands."

"Lucario used his early because he made too many enemies too quickly," said Metaknight. "If Robin has it, then this is far worse."

"Robin isn't a god," said Shadow. "Your fears are exaggerated."

Inkling turned to Chrom. "You know him best."

"Yes, I do," said Chrom. "Ironically, some form of him truly is a god. However, I certainly agree with the general consensus. Robin is extremely intelligent, and in this competition that makes him a threat. With an Immunity Necklace, that gives him an incredible advantage."

"Then we've got to get that necklace away from him," said Inkling. "Any ideas?"

"We can't do anything yet," said Dark Pit. "Probably a blessing, really."

"Certainly," said Bayonetta. "He's the East Tribe's problem."

"So, during the Tribal Switch, we do not choose Robin," said Incineroar. "Got it, everyone?"

"That's more of a Metaknight decision," said Ken. "Unless the rules have changed."

"We'll find out in a few days," said Metaknight. "However, I agree. We should all hope we stay far away from Robin."

Incineroar nodded. "Best plan, really. Sorry guys. I tried. I might've wasted it, but I think the game would've been safer if I had it."

Day 5

East Tribe

Rosalina had warned Mewtwo of Ryu's apprehension, so early in the morning they gathered him and Robin and took them into the jungle. Mewtwo had been disappointed in her for speaking behind his back, but after the potential alliance gathered the apprehension disappeared.

"Apologies for waking you up," said Rosalina. "But these things must be done in the dead of night."

"Won't bother me much," said Robin. "I'm used to many late-night strategies." He looked away, hiding his yawn.

"Did she speak the truth?" asked Ryu.

Mewtwo nodded. "We'd like you to join our alliance."

"I'd be honored," said Robin. "I feel all of you would be valuable allies."

"Yes, it'd be a powerful alliance," said Ryu. "I'll accept as well."

Rosalina clapped softly. "That's wonderful to hear! Would that be all?"

"We're missing our majority," said Robin. "That would be important."

"Do you think the others would ally against us?" asked Ryu. "No one would side with Ridley and King K Rool."

"Very true," said Robin. "However, it is a risk."

"Not much of one," said Mewtwo. "Ryu's correct. Despite the choice not to eliminate them, the others would not consider allying with the villains. Ridley's sharp tongue cannot convince them all."

"I know Geno would never do it," said Ryu. "He's made that abundantly clear."

"And Richter?" asked Mewtwo. The others shrugged. "We'd need to speak with him."

"You don't want to ask him to join?" asked Robin.

"He would not be my first choice," said Mewtwo. "I would rather have Geno. The puppet seems fixated on a single goal that coincides with our own. If the villains are eliminated, they will cause fewer problems."

"And Pac-Man?"

"A rogue. One that should also be eliminated quickly," said Mewtwo. "However, less of a priority due to being less of a threat."

"He's implied greater knowledge than he lets on," said Ryu. "I don't think you should underestimate him."

"He doesn't have Ridley's tongue nor King K Rool's strength."

"He has his own brand of intrigue," said Ryu.

Mewtwo nodded slowly. "I'll keep that in mind. We'll speak with him later to gauge his thoughts. I do not want another ROB ruining plans due to exclusion. We must know sides."

The others nodded as well, promising to get that information.

---

Hours later, King K Rool relaxed on the beach, enjoying the sun that shone off his golden stomach, when he felt something rubbery bounce against his side. He lashed out and grabbed that rubber, and he lifted it up to see Pac-Man upside down, smiling at him.

"Good morning to you, too!" Pac-Man said, waving. "Having fun in the sun?"

"Enjoying some small peace," King K Rool muttered. "Why did you hit me?"

"I tripped," said Pac-Man with a shrug. He stared swinging. "What can I do you for?"

"You can leave."

"Can't leave if I can't move."

King K Rool glared at him and let go. Pac-Man swung enough to flip back onto his feet, and he smiled. "Say, why haven't you asked me to join your evil alliance?"

"I don't know what you're talking about," said King K Rool, returning to the sun.

"You can't think you're clever enough to hide that, can you? You two are always sneaking away and talking in secret. The whole tribe knows by now."

"There's no alliance. No secrets. Ridley wanted nothing to do with me."

Pac-Man snickered. "Is that his official story, too?"

King K Rool rolled over and stared at the yellow circle. "That is the truth. I'll accept my isolation and hope I can survive until the Tribal Switch. I failed."

"Those sound like Ridley's words, too," said Pac-Man.

"It's my voice."

"Sure." Pac-Man stood taller and puffed out what would be his chest. "And if I speak deep like this and speak vaguely about important secret plans and telling everyone what to do, this is me talking and not Mewtwo."

"You're being stupid."

"That is King K Rool's voice," said Pac-Man. "Ridley wouldn't be that petty."

"Do you enjoy getting a rise out of people? It'll only end badly for you."

"Yes, and maybe." Pac-Man shrugged. "What better way to hear what people are really thinking? Ask them? Nah. They'd lie. Annoy them until they can't take it, and they may hate you, but you'll know exactly how they feel."

"The answer's going to be the same: they'd be annoyed, and they'd want you to leave."

Pac-Man smiled and turned to walk away. "Not always. Sometimes you get exactly the answer you want."

As Pac-Man disappeared, King K Rool rolled onto his back and rolled his eyes. "Idiot. Ridiculous idiot. If he outlasts me, I'd be disappointed."

---

Rosalina found Richter enjoying a banana on his own. She floated over and sat down, and he nodded at her. "Morning," he said. "Ready for tonight?"

"I am," said Rosalina. "I'm more confident now. There isn't as much tension."

Richter shrugged. "Maybe not for you. I'm still getting a lot of it."

"Oh? How so?"

"Things from the past few days are still affecting me. I don't regret it. I can handle it. They're empty words out of fear, really."

"What words?" asked Rosalina.

"Oh, Ridley made a big song and dance about trying to get me into his alliance," said Richter. "Stalked me in the jungle. Tried to intimidate me. Threaten me."

"Ridley did that? How awful."

"Well, I wasn't intimidated," said Richter. "I've faced worse than him. He'll be gone soon enough."

"Do you believe that?" asked Rosalina. "I'd believe we'd target King K Rool first."

"Is that the plan? I guess I've just heard Geno so much that I'd assume the entire tribe thought similarly."

"Yes, Geno's hatred has been clear."

"The whole tribe's heard," said Richter. "But I guess he was loud and upfront with his hatred. I haven't heard many words from the others."

"I'd assume the others would agree. Those two are the biggest threats, and we should be wary about them."

"Yeah," Richter finished his banana. "Say, if you'd like an alliance, I'd be happy to take you. I think Geno might be up for it as well. I seem to be the person he bounces hatred off of."

Rosalina smiled. "That's a fantastic proposition. I'd love to."

Richter smiled back. "Really? That's great! I thought it'd take more convincing."

"Not at all. If we're of the same mind, why would we not ally?" said Rosalina. "If Geno would be inclined to vote with us, then we've nothing to fear."

"Yeah. Taking out Mewtwo and the others would probably be smarter in the long run, but that's a threat for another time."

"Certainly so."

West Tribe

Bowser Jr felt his car shake. He swiped at the air, wishing the earthquake would stop. Then he heard a hissing infiltrate his dreams.

"Bowser Jr!" The air hissed. "Wake up! We need to talk!"

"Go away, wind. Go bother the others," Bowser Jr groaned groggily.

"Wind?" The car shook more. He felt something poke him. "We aren't the wind!"

Finally, Bowser Jr cracked open his eyes. He saw the Chorus Kids hovering over him, all looking distraught. He swiped at them, but they shook him again until he acknowledged them.

"What? Why are you waking me up so early?" He muttered.

The Chorus Kids looked at each other. "Is that why people don't like us? We wake them up too early?" They asked. They shook their heads. "They just need to learn how to sleep better."

Bowser Jr looked at the dark sky. He pointed weakly at a star. "See that? We shouldn't see that, ever. We should see the sun and nothing else."

"But the stars are beautiful. You can't even look at the sun."

"I don't want to look at the stars."

The Chorus Kids glared at him. "We're losing, you know. We don't have an alliance!"

Bowser Jr blinked, and then he smirked. "That's a good one. Waking me up just to trick me. Come on, even when I'm exhausted, I'm not going to fall for it."

"It's true!" The Chorus Kids shouted. "We talked to everyone. Everyone! No one wants to be part of our alliance!"

Bowser Jr frowned. "This is a really bad joke. It didn't work."

"It's not a joke! We'd never joke about something this serious!"

"You absolutely would."

"Not if you didn't find it funny!"

"You still absolutely would."

The Chorus Kids stomped their feet, rocking the Koopa Klown Car. "This is serious! We wouldn't wake you up if it wasn't!"

Bowser Jr snickered at his own joke. "You definitely wo-" They grabbed his shoulders and stared into his eyes. "Get off me! I'm teasing you!"

"Talk with the others, then," they said. "You'll learn we're right. And then you'll know how doomed we are."

"Why would they lie to us?"

"Apparently they never joined up in the first place!"

Bowser Jr snorted. "Then they're liars. I heard them agree myself."

"We did too! We don't know why they'd say such things!"

"Okay, we'll figure it out. It's okay. We'll find out what's wrong."

---

Later that morning, Lucina pulled Simon and Shulk away from the others. She smiled at them. "I think this is our official alliance meeting."

"Official," Shulk repeated. "It's a nice thought."

"Yes. I'm glad to be part of this," added Simon. "Three seems a bit low, however."

"Three trustworthy are better than six fleeting," said Shulk. "Although, did you have anyone else in mind?"

"Well, I asked Cloud if he'd consider us."

"As did I, in a way. Will he?"

"He didn't give us a definite answer," said Simon.

Shulk shook his head. "That sounds about right. Honestly, I'd be happy having Cloud with us."

"Charizard is not someone I trust," said Lucina. "Do you not feel if Cloud would join, Charizard would as well?"

"Funnily enough, he and I discussed that very thought," said Simon. "He feels Charizard is indifferent to him."

"He's not alone," said Shulk with a chuckle. "Although, I'd feel they'd be the closest."

"As did Lucina and I," added Simon. "I'm sure most of the tribe would agree. They, however, would not."

Lucina frowned. "Guess we just assumed that their mutual disgust of Popo would unite them."

"It united us all, technically," said Shulk. "All but one mysterious voter."

"Is it really a mystery?" asked Simon. "It was Bowser Jr, attempting to create chaos when none exists."

"That was my thought as well," said Shulk. "It amounted to nothing."

"Like everything he does," said Lucina, smiling to herself. "You've heard of my supposed 'alliance' with him, correct?"

"From you, yes," said Shulk.

"Oh, right," said Lucina quietly. "It's ridiculous, is it not?"

"Is it?" asked Shulk. "The most exciting alliance last time was Kirby and Bowser, complete opposites. I feel any partnership is possible given enough reason."

"You did just mention Cloud and Charizard," added Simon. "Who would consider them?"

"That's fair," said Lucina. "But the idea of aligning with Bowser Jr and the Chorus Kids is ridiculous enough, is it not? I'd hate to consider the thought."

"How did it even come about?" asked Shulk. "Clearly it's an idea that they enjoyed."

Lucina rolled her eyes. "Bowser Jr asked us a few nights ago. I politely declined, Charizard certainly declined. They ignored both of us and assumed we'd accepted. They've been parroting that idea ever since, despite our pleas."

"So, they're delusional," said Simon. "A pity."

"I don't know where they got it in their head," added Lucina. "I really don't. But that's certainly a reason why I'd never consider them. They can't take a 'no' as genuine."

"A pity," Simon repeated, nodding. "It will be their downfall."

"It'll be more than that," said Shulk. "If they get along with nobody, it's their fault. We're pleasant enough people. We give them time to speak. They don't give us good reasons to trust them."

"Their actions have spoken for them," said Lucina. "They'll no doubt be the next to go."

"We could only hope," said Simon.

---

Cloud and Charizard met in secret for the first time since Day 1. Charizard began the meeting by rolling his eyes, making Cloud chuckle.

"I assume you're annoyed."

"Isn't that always the case?" asked Charizard. "You wouldn't believe what Bowser Jr just asked."

"I'd assume it's about your alliance," said Cloud.

Charizard pointed at him threateningly. "Don't start with that. I know I told him no. You know I told him know. The damn universe knows."

"Except him, I assume."

"Except him and his stupid partner. He just asked me if I'd considered other alliance offers. I told him that I was in every alliance except his. He just shook his head and drove away." Charizard slashed a tree in frustration. "I can't be rid of them!"

"It's extremely simple to eliminate them," said Cloud. "You know nobody enjoys their company."

"Thank god," Charizard muttered. "If they had an ounce of charisma, I'd be forced to endure them forever. They're our targets."

"We could always sabotage our tribe tonight."

"Nah. Then we'd be targets. Nobody like saboteurs."

"Doesn't mean it doesn't happen."

"Not a risk I want to take," said Charizard. "They're the main targets, mainly because they can't shut up. No need to provoke the others."

"Speaking of provoking others, how many alliance offers have you received?" asked Cloud.

Charizard snorted. "Funnily enough, theirs was the only one. Why? You popular?"

"I've received several, actually."

"Any mention tagging me along as well?"

"None, unfortunately," said Cloud, shaking his head.

"Damn. I guess I haven't given the best impression."

"You always have Bowser Jr."

"Fuck off," Charizard growled. "I'd rather get eliminated than side with them."

"Just wait until the Tribal Switch," Cloud offered. "You won't be eliminated until then, at the very least. See if you can't get better luck somewhere else."

Charizard pondered that. "You know, Cloud, you're right. That's probably something to consider. I can think of a few others who I'd like to align with. Of course, you're included."

"Of course." Cloud smiled. "Villager's reasonable. I recall someone from last game volunteering to be switched. You could as well."

"Might be my best shot," said Charizard. "I don't care much about winning, but I'll try if it's my best chance. And, hey, if you get alliance offers, don't let me drag you down. Join your favorite. I'll be fine."

"Good to hear. It'd be great to see you rise on another tribe."

"No chance on this one," said Charizard. "That's for sure."

---

Villager pulled out his fishing rod and tossed the lure into the ocean. He felt a shadow behind him, and he turned to see Banjo standing over his shoulder.

"Morning," he said. "Can I help?"

Banjo blinked. "Uh, honestly, not really. I didn't have anything in mind."

"Where's your friend?" asked Villager.

Kazooie popped out of the backpack. "Has this one popped the question, yet?" Villager shook his head. "Then ask the question, you timid bear!"

"I'm not timid," Banjo said. He took a deep breath. "Okay, Villager, the next challenge is tonight. Who are you planning on eliminating?"

Villager smiled strangely. "That's not something I'm willing to share."

"We can share!" said Banjo. "I don't think it's much of a secret, is it?"

"Well, I don't know what alliance you're a part of," said Villager. "And you don't know mine."

"We know exactly what alliance," said Kazooie. "Everyone knows."

Villager hesitated. "Please explain."

Banjo hushed his partner. "She – jokingly – means your 'alliance' with Bowser-"

"Okay, yeah, no, there's no alliance," said Villager, quickly. "I shut them down a while ago. Anything else is a baseless rumor."

"Then good!" said Kazooie. "You won't be offended by our vote!"

"Was this some sort of test?" asked Villager. "If you told me you were voting for either of them, and I didn't react-"

"Yes, we would know for sure," said Banjo. "It was Kazooie's idea, by the way. I didn't want to attempt to provoke you."

"You spineless bear," Kazooie grumbled.

"Who's the one carrying us?" Banjo countered.

"This backpack is pulling all the weight!"

"It's a lot of weight!"

"Guys, please," Villager said. "Enough. I get it. You're voting for either of them if we lose tonight. So will I. I see them as problems."

"Excellent!" said Banjo. "I'm glad you agree. Do any of the others?"

Villager shook his head. "None that I know of. You could always ask them."

Kazooie snorted. "Good luck getting this one-" she jabbed the bear's head. "-to ask them."

"We got our answer from the Tribe Leader," said Banjo. "What more do you want?"

"To win, obviously," said Kazooie.

"Okay, your banter's great, guys, but you're scaring the fish," said Villager. "It was a nice chat. I hope you find your answers."

"Sorry," said Banjo. He nodded, Kazooie bowed, and the pair left.

Villager returned to his fishing, felt a tug, pulled hard, and out popped a bass. He smiled at his catch, and then he heard the faint echoes of the Chorus Kids. As he set the bass aside, he quietly hoped they didn't lose tonight. Like them or not, it was better to keep them around as long as possible. More voting fodder, until the others realized they could easily eliminate himself and take over as Tribal Leader.

He shook his head, shaking away those encroaching thoughts. "Not yet," he whispered. "Please, not yet."

South Tribe

Bayonetta felt an opportunity arise after waking up from a quick nap. She heard a high-pitched humming near a newly-born flame. She walked over to the fire to see Isabelle and a half-awake Inkling at the fire. Isabelle sizzled fish while Inkling hunched over and struggled to keep her eyes open.

Bayonetta cleared her throat, startling them. She held up hands defensively and whispered, "Sorry, girls. I didn't mean to startle you. I'm glad you didn't drop the food."

"So am I," said Isabelle, giggling. "I didn't think you'd join us."

"I'm surprised you're awake," said Inkling, rubbing crust out of one eye. "This is way beyond my bedtime."

"I don't sleep much," said Bayonetta. "I normally just watch from above."

"Not suspicious at all," Inkling muttered, stifling a yawn.

"You think I'm the only one? I can guarantee there are two – maybe three – others who do the same."

"That's ridiculous." Inkling nudged Isabelle. "Hey, maybe we should transfer to less creepy tribes."

"It really isn't that bad," said Isabelle. "We've nothing to hide, right?"

"I don't like being watched."

"Which is absolutely reasonable," said Bayonetta.

"Yet you do it anyway."

"Did you want to help us?" asked Isabelle.

"I feel you girls can handle yourselves well enough," said Bayonetta. "I wouldn't want to interfere.

"That was my excuse too," said Inkling. "I'm just here to hold the plates when they're done." She yawned. "Apparently we haven't made a suitable table yet."

"No, Ken slacked on that job, unfortunately," said Isabelle, shaking her head. "And nobody has continued his work."

"I'd like to discuss a potential alliance with you girls," said Bayonetta, finally.

Inkling immediately perked up, and Isabelle stopped flipping the fish. "What?" the former asked.

"Metaknight chose his member, Mach Rider-" Inkling gasped at that. "-And I chose you girls."

"Oh, that's wonderful!" said Isabelle. "Thank you so much!"

"Really, yeah, I can't believe it," said Inkling. "That's perfect! I felt like Mach Rider and I really bonded."

"He told us that as well," said Bayonetta. "Fantastic! Then, as long as there are no setbacks-"

"Well, I made a promise with Ken," said Isabelle, quietly.

Inkling rolled her eyes. "Oh, no, it was perfect. Meant it could never happen."

"Ken?" Bayonetta repeated. "Why him?"

"I actually asked him," answered Isabelle, blushing slightly. "He admitted he'd never been approached, and I hadn't either, except my implied alliance with Inkling-"

"Forever alliance," added Inkling.

"-So I asked him, and he accepted."

Bayonetta sighed. "Unfortunately, Ken was never in our plans. I'll have to discuss this with Metaknight."

"Is it really a bad thing if Ken's added?" asked Inkling. "I mean, it makes our alliance five, right?"

"That would be six," said Bayonetta. "With you two, me, Metaknight, Ken, and Mach Rider."

"Oh, right, him," Inkling muttered. "Well, that's good, right?"

"I would hope so," said Bayonetta. "We'll find out. Are you truly set on this alliance with him?"

"I'd feel awful betraying him," said Isabelle quietly. "He seemed so eager!"

"Any other surprises we should know about?"

"No!" said Inkling. "I've talked with a whole bunch of people. Never made any promises to them."

"That's not fair," said Isabelle quietly.

"Sorry," said Inkling. "I didn't mean it like that."

"It's fine."

"When the others wake up, we'll decide," said Bayonetta, and she disappeared. Isabelle finished the fish in silence, feeling noticeable looks from her partner.

---

Hours later, Incineroar felt several pokes on his back. He yawned loudly, leaned over, and saw yellow eyes staring at him. He snorted flames and muttered, "You've gotta be more subtle than that to scare me."

"It's nearly noon," said his assailant. "I've no intention of scaring you."

"Then why are you poking me and staring at me?"

"To get your attention."

Incineroar leaned over and saw Metaknight's mask. He yawned again, stretching slowly, and muttered, "Well, you have it. Congrats."

"How did you lose that event?"

Incineroar paused. He immediately sensed the suspicion. He sobered up and looked at the yellow eyes. "I lost by choosing the wrong crystal," he said carefully. "Robin predicted red. I predicted blue. He chose red. I chose red. Damn me and my fur, right?"

Metaknight studied him carefully, and then he slowly nodded. "Sorry to hear."

"Are you? You're interrogating me when I've barely woken up."

"Immunity Necklaces are no light matter," said Metaknight. "If Robin truly has one, that's an important fact. We should all know for certain of the player who owns it."

"Well, he won. He has it."

A pause. Then, "Understandable. We'll do what we can."

Incineroar yawned. "Is that it, then? Can I go back to sleep."

Silence. The tiger looked around, but his assailant had disappeared. He wanted another few hours of sleep before he woke up and understood what lie he'd spun.

---

Mach Rider accepted Isabelle's beautifully cooked fish and walked into the jungle. As he was about to move his helmet to devour the meal, he heard a blip behind him. He paused and slowly turned to see one of his tribemates watching him.

"Your teleports make noise," he said simply.

His stalker stepped forward. Shadow frowned. "I'm well aware. I wasn't attempting to frighten you."

"Yet you didn't speak."

"Must I announce whenever I teleport? I feel that'd be tedious."

"What do you want?" asked Mach Rider.

"A proposition, really. Everyone knows of the alliance," said Shadow. "I would like to know if you'd agree to fight it."

"No, I wouldn't."

A pause. "Is that right?" Shadow asked, not expecting such a sudden, direct answer.

"Exactly right," said Mach Rider. "I've no intention of fighting it."

"So, you accept your defeat?" asked Shadow.

"No."

"Then why not fight?"

"Because fighting would mean aligning with you, which would mean inevitable defeat."

Another pause. Shadow said, hesitantly, "You're not the first I've heard that from."

"Then heed our advice. You made a stupid decision. If you're not eliminated, learn from it."

"I did not make a stupid decision," said Shadow. "I was too eager in producing drama when I should've delivered an impactful message, I'll admit, but it was not stupid. You all understood what I wanted to say."

"We did. But deliver is as important as the message itself," said Mach Rider. "You said something and ran away like a coward."

"I'm no coward."

"Then prove it."

"I'm trying," said Shadow. "With your help, we can fight this alliance."

A pause. "No. I will not fight with you."

"Then you've resigned to your defeat."

"No, I've guaranteed yours."

Another blip. Mach Rider lifted his helmet to enjoy his meal in peace, knowing his assailant was far away.

---

Chrom and Ken had received their fish and were eating next to each other in silence. Ken finished his meal first and burped.

"Sorry," he said quickly. "Used to eating alone."

Chrom chuckled. "It's quite alright. I've shared plenty of mess halls with overeaters."

"Good," said Ken quietly. "Really? You consider me an overeater?"

"Not at all! I'm simply accustomed to all matter of food. You've no need to apologize is all I will say."

Ken chuckled. "Oh, good. You know, I'm still not sure how I should address you. Lord. King. Great Lord."

"Chrom," was the answer. "Any other answer would not be appropriate for this game. I've no desire to flaunt any title I might've accrued. Further, I've no power to flaunt." He chuckled quietly. "What titles have you received?"

"World US Martial Artist," said Ken, quietly. "Champion fighter."

"All impressive, no doubt," said Chrom.

"None important to this game."

"Nor are mine."

Ken smiled. "This is one you'll relate to. Father."

"Ah yes," Chrom's smile widened. "Truly the greatest title."

"Mel's my son. A bright young boy."

"Who will no doubt grow into a strong man under his father's tutelage," said Chrom.

"Absolutely, as Lucina will grow. Has grown. Uh…"

Chrom chuckled. "Yes, I have the amazing knowledge of knowing how strong my daughter will become. In fact, I live a dream few others can. I can know my daughter as an adult and help her grow into a strong woman."

Ken shook his head. "You and your time travel. If I had such a life, I would've loved to see Mel as a man."

"You will. Of that I have no doubt."

"I won't grow up with two of him."

Chrom hesitated. "No. I don't mean to brag, of course. I'm truly a lucky man."

"Absolutely."

"I know Lucina will be better than I could ever be."

"And Mel for me."

Chrom held up his plate. "Ken, we know more than most of the others."

Ken clanked plates. "Yes, we do. The hardest and best moments of our lives."

"I wish Mel all the best."

"And Lucina as well."

And they enjoyed their meals in silence, simply enjoying each other's company.

North Tribe

Little Mac enjoyed a dreamless sleep. And then he heard a quiet whisper. A seductive voice who felt powerful and trustworthy. He nodded at their every word as they clouded his mind. Then as quickly as they appeared, they vanished, leaving him empty and longing for fulfilment, with a desire to hear more of those beautiful words. They were right about everything. He couldn't refute them. If he listened to them and obeyed them, the world would be perfect. Whole.

And when he woke up, he felt excited, renewed. He joined his tribe around the fire, where they were all eating.

"Morning," said Daisy, happily. "Nice of you to wake up."

"Nice to be woken up," said Little Mac, equally as cheery.

"Enjoyed your rest?" asked Megaman, curiously.

"It was wonderful, thank you!"

"Good to hear!" said Duck Hunt, wagging his tail rapidly.

The rest of the tribe, the five who hadn't spoken, glanced at each other. None of them felt the cheerfulness that their comrades felt.

"It is really that wonderful?" asked Palutena. "What makes today so good?"

"Just a feeling of unity, really," said Little Mac. "Like we're all ready to accomplish our goals and beat the others!"

"Is that it?" said Greninja. He glanced at Daisy. "What about you?"

Daisy smiled at him. "I feel the same! We're a unified ten against everyone else. We have no one holding us back!"

"What about Dark Samus?" asked Palutena, sternly, sensing exactly what was wrong.

Daisy frowned innocently. "What about her? She's nowhere to be seen."

"Is that not a problem?"

"She doesn't eat," said Megaman.

"You're here," said Isaac.

"I like hearing you guys. She doesn't care as much."

"Daisy, do you remember our discussions over the past few days?" asked Palutena, carefully.

"Which ones?"

"About Dark Samus corrupting everyone."

"Oh, those! Yes, I thought more about it, and I realized how ridiculous they were. She hasn't shown any signs of doing anything wrong. We're reaching for excuses at this point. I just accepted she's innocent, and I feel much better!"

"Of course, you do," Palutena whispered. She gave Greninja a helpless look.

Falco considered Daisy carefully. "So, you're saying Dark Samus is innocent, is that it?"

"Yes!"

"Despite everything else you've said."

Daisy shrugged. "I can admit when I'm wrong."

"Repeat what you said about her," said Falco. "About how awful she is. About how she corrupts people."

"The first step in accepting people is to accept we're wrong about misjudging them," said Daisy.

Falco laid back in his seat. "Fantastic. She's gone. Is Little Mac, too?"

Isaac nudged him. "Remember what we said about Dark Samus the past few days?"

Little Mac shrugged. "Nothing that can be proven, really."

Isaac nodded and looked back at his Tribe Leader. "Yes, he is, sadly."

Falco smiled and crossed his arms. "So, five of us against five of hers."

"How could you smile?" asked Palutena, looking hurt at Daisy. "This is awful. Purely awful."

Falco motioned toward the others. "Look at them. It couldn't be more obvious. I take this as a test. Do you not?"

"Of course not."

"Five against five. If she really, really wanted to take over without a fight, she could've." Falco pointed at the latest two. "She got two in one night. That's efficient. She could've taken all of us if she wanted, I'd bet."

"Not me," Palutena muttered. "I'm beyond her reason."

"Tell her that," said Falco.

"What a sad fate for them," said Corrin, quietly. "They cannot even see through the ruse."

"Taking Daisy was incredibly blatant," said Greninja. "It was a blatant show of power. Falco's right: this is her stand. She expects us to fight her now."

"I haven't been taken by anyone," said Daisy. "What are you talking about?"

"What about Luigi?" asked Megaman.

Daisy chuckled. "Well, I suppose there's that."

"You two hush," said Palutena. She leaned toward Greninja. "Is this the time, then?"

"This is her challenge," said Greninja. "We've no other choice."

Isaac shook his head. "A ridiculous situation. She should tell us herself. She shouldn't rely on others to speak for her."

"She'll choose one of us during the voting," said Greninja. "She'll challenge one of us."

"It'll be a fun challenge," said Falco. "Dominance over this tribe."

Corrin leaned to him. "But should we not watch each other until the challenge begins?"

"That's a good idea," said Greninja. "None of us should wander off. Dark Samus clearly snuck into camp to corrupt these two. No one should be left alone, lest she take over."

"Surely the game makers can see this in action," said Isaac. "There's no subtlety anymore. She was likely caught on the cameras as well."

"She certainly was," said Greninja. "They haven't eliminated her because they expect us to eliminate her."

"They should do it already and save us the trouble," Palutena muttered.

"Maybe they have no proof," said Isaac.

"They'll certainly have the proof," said Greninja. "But if we aren't able to overcome it, then we don't deserve to win this tribe."

"That's ridiculous" said Palutena. "Would they let the entire game be won over by corruption? It's mind control. Cheating at this point."

"We aren't mind controlled," said Megaman. "You're being paranoid."

"Yeah, at that point, it's kind of pathetic," Little Mac added, shaking his head.

Duck Hunt nodded. "Really sad. They wouldn't let anyone cheat here."

"They might not consider it cheating," said Greninja.

"Exactly!" said Megaman. "No one's cheating. It's all paranoia."

"Say something bad about Dark Samus," said Palutena.

The corrupted glared at her. Corrin whispered, "I feel it's time to give up that line of attack. It clearly will not work."

Palutena sighed. "I'm hoping for some signs of resistance. Anything."

"The thing about corruption is how absolute it is," said Greninja. "The only way to purge those thoughts is to attack the source."

"The queen of corruption herself," Isaac muttered.

"Exactly," said Corrin, shuddering. "It is no small act, removing the darkness in someone. It takes incredible strength and courage."

"I feel we all qualify," said Isaac. "No matter who she chooses, we will win."

"That's a good attitude to have," said Greninja.

"You all speak of eliminating her so blatantly," said Megaman. "What if she overheard?"

"You're saying we'd hurt her feelings?" asked Falco.

"Maybe she feels threatened," said Megaman. "And you're going to force her to retaliate."

"If this is her retaliation, it's fairy pathetic," said Palutena.

"Nothing pathetic about it," a voice rasped from the trees. They all turned, some happily, some shocked, as the embodiment of corruption hovered onto the beach, staring at each in turn. "Pathetic would be dominating the tribe without a fight."

"Called it," Falco whispered.

Corrin shushed him. Palutena stood to face her. "Pathetic is hiding in the shadows and letting lackeys do the work for you."

"They do not see as you do," said Dark Samus calmly. "They see a more rationale approach. Unity. You've heard them speak, how excited they are to face the challenges that come our way. That is what they seek."

"It's true," said Daisy, and Palutena turned toward her. "I've been so upset these past few days thinking about how many awful things we've said about her. We can't keep doing this. It isn't fair. She's done nothing wrong."

"Oh, Daisy," Palutena said quietly, slowly shaking her head. "You poor thing. I'll free you."

"There's nothing to free me from. I feel free right now!"

"Look, Dark Samus, we all know how this is going to end," said Falco. "This is a silly show."

"I haven't spoken to many of you in days. This, before our final confrontation, is the best time to speak directly. I've heard your complaints, your baseless insults, your deception. I've no need for it."

"Acting from the shadows is incredible deceptive," argued Isaac.

"So is corrupting people, but I guess that's beside the point," muttered Falco.

"Who is your choice, then?" asked Palutena. "You clearly expect to fight at Tribal Council. Who will it be?"

Dark Samus slowly raised her cannon toward her. "You, of course. A challenge to our unity. The one who opposed me from the beginning. Who else?"

"That's a big mistake," said Falco. "She'll crush you."

"If I cannot eliminate the strongest, I'm not worthy to win," said Dark Samus. "And their unity will fade if we separate."

At that, Palutena felt a heaviness lift. "Really?" She asked, betraying hope. "Just like that?"

"I cannot say traces will not remain, but they'll think for themselves."

Palutena stepped closer, glaring into the visor. "Then I've everything to gain by eliminating you."

"And I the same."

Immunity Challenge

The four tribes met at the southwestern corner of the island, entirely covered by a beach in the shape of a crater. When the water receded, peaks of sand crested the ocean to reveal the second half of the crater. Four large platforms rose above the water, each several dozen yards apart, with a gangplank leading to the closest.

As Master Hand arrived, he began, "This is a bit unorthodox, but since there was no official announcement, Wii Fit Trainer was eliminated at the last Tribal Council. Today's challenge is simple." He snapped himself, and several Miis marched out of the woods, each carrying a large pair of wooden angel wings. Dark Pit winced at the sight of them.

Master Hand noticed. "For those few of you who can fly unassisted, consider yourselves lucky. You do not have to wear these."

Palutena chuckled. "You're welcome, Pittoo."

Dark Pit blushed. "I have Viridi to thank nowadays."

Master Hand cleared his imaginary throat. "This will be a race. One at a time, each tribe will send a member up this first platform with wings attached. They will then attempt to fly to the second platform, and then the third, and then the fourth. These wings are just aerodynamic enough to allow anyone to reach the platform with careful use of wind. However, if you fall into the water, you're allowed to climb up, but the next tribe member to begin will have to wait five seconds for each dip. If you fall all three times, you set your tribe back fifteen seconds, which may be the deciding factor in elimination.

"If there are no questions-" Master Hand paused, looking at Falco.

The bird shrugged. "Simple enough."

"-Decide your order. East and West Tribes, the first to go will also be the last to go. No teleporting allowed. You must fly."

"What about hovering?" asked Rosalina.

"Hovering is allowed," said Master Hand. "Essentially another word for flying, with regards to this challenge."

A few minutes later, the first four waited at the gangplank. Falco, Metaknight, Mewtwo, and Charizard. Master Hand hovered above them and counted down. At go, the competitors leapt off the platform. Metaknight, Mewtwo, and Charizard soared easily across each platform, barely losing an inch of height. They cleared nearly simultaneously – South Tribe just ahead – and their next went.

Dark Pit soared easily across, as did Rosalina. Villager struggled slightly during the first dive, but he didn't touch the water, and his next attempts were far better.

Isabelle instantly learned the wings and easily soared to safety. Ridley flew perfectly as expected, while Banjo was assisted greatly by his partner.

The struggle began with Inkling, who dove straight into the water and yelped in surprise as she leapt onto the ladder leading to the second platform. She climbed to the top, tried again, and managed to just clutch the bottom rung of the next platform's ladder. Her final attempt was much better. Pac-Man also fell into the water the first time, but he struggled further by completely nose diving into the water the second and third times. Cloud fared far better, managing to – if uneasily – avoid the water each time.

With a huge lead, the West Tribe sent the Chorus Kids up. Being incredibly aerodynamic, they were practically carried by the wings across the water, barely stopping to touch each platform. Meanwhile, after a five second penalty, Shadow went across, not touching the water. Ryu waited patiently for his fifteen seconds before struggling to latch onto the ladders but avoiding the water.

Long before this point, the tribes realized they were missing an important part of the competition. Falco hadn't moved. He'd rested at the top of the platform, looking down on his tribe with disappointment. When Simon took his place for the West Tribe, he studied the bird carefully.

"Is there a reason for your pause?" asked Simon.

Falco shrugged. "Just don't want to get wet. That's all."

Simon frowned, but his tribe called for him to go, so he went, diving into the water. The South Tribe caught up, and Bayonetta quickly passed him. The East Tribe, thanks to expert piloting by Robin, also passed him by. Eventually Simon reached the end, but he set his tribe back several seconds.

Incineroar tried his damnedest to avoid the water, but he struggled with the wings and fell twice. Richter managed to control the wings better than his ancestor and avoided the ocean, while Lucina flew into the water once.

Mach Rider controlled his height perfectly, while King K Rool unsubtly used his propellers to help himself across. Bowser Jr, thanks to his heavy car, sank every time and had to turn his car into a boat in order to escape. He fell far behind the other two tribes thanks to this design flaw.

Chrom and Ken crossed without incident long before Bowser Jr finished, securing victory for the South Tribe. Geno and Mewtwo hovered across, giving the East Tribe their win.

Finally, Bowser Jr reached the last platform, and Shulk went forward – falling once – and then Charizard flew across.

And Falco remained on the platform, clapping at the victors.

"With that, Immunity goes to all but the North Tribe, although I have the slightest suspicion there was a reason for this," said Master Hand. "Be that as it may, congratulations to the winners. To the North Tribe, I will see you soon. With that, this ends another Immunity Challenge. Good luck to everyone tomorrow for another standard Reward Challenge!"

The four tribes left, although the North Tribe got several looks from the others. But they looked unperturbed by them. Everyone knew what that behavior meant. The tribe had a plan. One they had to enact tonight.

Tribal Council

The North Tribe entered one-by-one, each carrying an unlit wooden torch. They placed their torches in the fire, lighting them, and sat on the logs. Dark Samus and her alliance sat at the top, the others at the bottom.

Master Hand floated at a podium across from the stone ruins. "Welcome to your first Tribal Council, North Tribe," said Master Hand. "This is an important occasion. You'll note the torches next to you. Each represents life in this game, and if your torch's light is snuffed, then you lose your chance at winning Survivor."

"Not our life, though, right?" asked Falco. "It's been a while since I've been here. I hope the rules haven't changed."

"That remains to be seen," said Master Hand. "However, the symbolism remains. I'd like to begin my questions. Falco, you're a talker."

"I've been known to input now and then."

"Can you explain why you waited at the platform this challenge?" asked Master Hand. "It seemed rather unorthodox."

"Gotta admit, MH, there's a huge difference between this North Tribe and the last one," said Falco. "I mean, you watch the cameras. You know what we're dealing with, right?"

"I've been made aware of the struggle," said Master Hand.

"Okay, I'd like to make an appeal. Why? Why are we dealing with this? You know what's going on."

"There's no definite proof," said Master Hand carefully. "However, we're watching closely. Very closely. If we feel it's gone too far, we'll intervene."

"Sorry, but how has it not gone too far?" asked Palutena. "Is mind control allowed, suddenly? Can I use my god powers to convince everyone to vote with me?"

"If you did, and admitted it, we'd have to eliminate you," said Master Hand. "We're taking this seriously. We understand and sympathize with your possible struggle, but rest assured that we will not let this interfere with the integrity of the game. We knew what we were doing with our invitation. We're watching."

A pause lingered after this. Palutena glanced at Greninja, who gave a helpless shrug.

"I've noticed you haven't asked my opinion," said Dark Samus.

"Do you have anything to say?" asked Master Hand. "You clearly believe you have power."

"I do," said Dark Samus. "I enjoy the power I have. Others will enjoy it when they're given a taste. Unfortunately, I'm extremely selective with whom I give my powers. Nobody here has proven themselves worthy."

Megaman nodded solemnly. "It'd be incredible."

"Incredible," Duck Hunt repeated.

"So, this isn't your power?" asked Isaac. "What they're parroting."

"I cannot tell them what to say," said Dark Samus.

"You're careful in your wording," said Corrin. "I've noticed that. It's clever."

"I know not what you mean," said Dark Samus.

Corrin smiled. "Of course not. It will be a shame when you've departed. A power like yours on our side would be valuable."

"I will never leave," said Dark Samus.

No, your essence will live on," said Palutena darkly. "Despite what you've said."

"I've spoken nothing but the truth."

"I recall someone else saying that," said Falco. "Funnily enough, he lost too."

At that, Master Hand intervened. "I believe enough has been discussed. If you may, please go to the voting urn, write your votes, and sit back down. Duck Hunt, can you write?"

Duck Hunt shook his head, wagging his tail.

"Then there are bobbleheads of your fellow tribe members. Place your vote into the urn. It isn't subtle, but it's the best we can do. You may go first."

Duck Hunt went up to vote, tossed a bobblehead in, and came back.

Falco went up to vote.

"The obvious vote. I won't let you take over my tribe."

Little Mac went up to vote.

Corrin went up to vote.

Megaman went up to vote.

Palutena went up to vote.

"You're a monster. You ruined the integrity of this game."

Dark Samus went up to vote.

"You will be my greatest triumph. Know that honor."

Isaac went up to vote.

Daisy went up to vote.

Greninja went up to vote.

When the frog sat down, Master Hand collected the urn and placed it on the podium. "When the votes are read, the decision is final. The player with the most votes must exit Tribal Council immediately." He paused, looking to each member in turn. "I'll read the votes."

He took out the bobblehead and placed it on the podium. "The first vote is for Palutena."

Palutena nodded, ready to begin the tiebreaker.

Master Hand pulled out the second vote. "Dark Samus."

Dark Samus didn't react.

And so the votes went. Five votes for Palutena, five for Dark Samus. When he placed the last paper down, Master Hand said, "It seems we have a tie. In the event of a tie, for those unaware, we go to previous votes and eliminate the player who received the most votes total. This being your first Tribal Council, you're both at zero, so we shall decide this with a tiebreaker challenge. If the two of you may come forward.

Palutena and Dark Samus came forward and faced each other.

"Normally, this would be something mundane. We've done fire making challenges in the past. This would be over too quickly this time, however, so we've decided to attempt something thematically appropriate," said Master Hand. "You've both made boasts about your power to one another. There've been talks of corruption. We've decided like this: Dark Samus, attempt to corrupt Palutena-"

"What?" Palutena asked.

"If you succeed, you claim victory. If you fail, you will be eliminated. You have just thirty seconds. Will that be enough?"

Dark Samus nodded.

"Then begin."

Before Palutena could blink, her mind was filled with voices, all chanting the same thing. All demanding she submit, she obey. The voices sounded so authoritative, so seductive, she felt she had to obey. There was no other choice. This was the best outcome for everyone. Anything else was a lie. This voice told the truth.

Her mind started to melt, a haze blocked her vision. Then she saw Dark Samus right before her, cutting through the smog.

"It's over," said the voice, calming, soothing, nothing like the voice in real life. "Submit and accept our unity. Be one with everyone."

Okay. She almost spoke. But something kept her from opening her mouth. She saw Dark Samus there, but something was off. That shining armor with veins of corruptions spreading across, pulsing with energy. Something was wrong. She didn't want that. She didn't want to become that.

She heard a voice. Not Dark Samus'. Not anyone from the North Tribe. It was high pitched, excited, and familiar. Pit. Her Pit.

"Come on," Pit said. "You're really gonna let this beat you?"

No. Of course not. Nothing could beat me.

"Is that right? Why're you about to submit to her? Is that how my Lady Palutena's going to be eliminated?"

Never.

"Then say it!" Pit shouted. "Be the goddess I know you are! Ignore her corruption, her talks of 'unity' – like that means anything – and say it!"

I will not be corrupted. I'm Palutena.

"Don't say it to me. Say it to the people listening," said Pit. "Say it to the people who matter!"

"I'm Palutena!" Palutena shouted, cutting through the silence. She felt a coldness creeping across her face, but she planted her staff firmly in the stone, and a light burst from it. The coldness evaporated, replaced with a pleasant warmth.

Dark Samus recoiled, shielding her visor, floating back into the darkness. Palutena stifled the light, breathing heavily.

"Is that it?" Palutena asked. "Must I go through more."

"It's been more than thirty seconds," said Master Hand.

"Say something bad about her!" shouted Falco.

"You're nothing," said Palutena, looking down on her opponent. "You attempted to secure your victory, but you failed, because your idea of 'unity' is nothing more than a pathetic attempt at control. We will not concede to you. We're stronger than you."

Dark Samus didn't respond, silently staring at the goddess. Palutena could feel the contempt.

"As per the rules of this challenge, Palutena is the victor. Dark Samus, please bring me your torch," said Master Hand.

For a moment, it looked like Dark Samus would rebel, would attempt to seize control some other way, but then she took her torch and set it beside Master Hand. The host snuffed out the light.

"Goodbye, Dark Samus," said Master Hand. "It was an interesting strategy. One that will keep in our minds for ages."

Dark Samus disappeared into the darkness without a word, without a look back.

"I'll admit, I was worried you'd succumb to those veins," said Master Hand. "They spread across you so quickly. You never spoke."

"I almost did," Palutena admitted. "Even my power was barely enough for that. But then I heard something encouraging. Something I treasured beyond all else. That forced me to fight back."

"I'm glad," said Master Hand. "That is one problem you must all work past. I hope the effects do not last too long. You nine may return to camp. I'll be interested in your progress. We'll watch carefully."

The remaining Survivors took their torches and left the ruins. Many felt relieved, but a few felt lost, alone, confused.

---

As the credits played, there was silence.