Total Drama: Dungeon Hunters

by Icathius Nytfall

Chris calls for 18 new individuals to compete for a grand prize of 1 million dollars. Contestants will be competing in virtual reality filled with deadly creatures while overcoming hard challenges. SYOC app is closed. 10/18 contestants remain.

11. A date to be Unexpected

Quick AN: I'd like to apologize to Clint's and Nathan's creators in advance for their challenge is going to get a bit...explicit so yeah...enjoy!

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"Last time on Total Drama: Dungeon Hunters." Chris said as he started off the episode with his trademark smile. "Our previous three teams: Red Dragons, Blue Nagas, and Yellow Chocobos, have been fused together to form two new teams to start of the mid-game before the merge hits." An aerial image of Skell dividing the contestants was shown on screen.

"The Golden Dawn Elves and the Diamond Dusk Wolves are the names of the new teams that entered last times challenge as well as being the final team moving on forward." Portraits of each contestant underneath their respective teams was shown on screen. "Though sadly they only had a few moments to get to know each other for they were immediately sent in to face their first challenge with the threat of elimination hanging over their heads." Chris gave off an evil looking grin.

"The challenge the new teams faced was a 'simple' cooking challenge encompassing the three important meals of the day: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner." A still image of each team standing in their respective kitchen areas was shown on screen. "After an entire hard days work of cooking and hunting, both teams ended up in a draw forcing a tie breaker speed eating contest between chefs to finally settle the winners of the challenge." A replay of Paris eating her large steak and Blake eating his large barbeque ribs was shown on screen. "After an intense match between them, Blake of the newly formed Diamond Dusk Wolves took the first victory for their team and forcing the Golden Dawn Elves into elimination." A still image of Blake standing over Paris triumphantly was shown on screen.

"The Golden Dawn Elves now facing the first elimination, Gelsey was the poor soul that paid its price." A replay of Gelsey leaving the camp site with Skell was shown on screen. As the replay ended the camera started to slowly zoom in on Chris. "Will the light of a new dawn be able to save the elves on what's to come? Or will the eternal dusk be enough for the wolves to stay on top? Find out now on Total...Drama...Dungeon Hunters!"

~(Theme Song)~

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(Chef's food tent)

It was another bright morning with the sunlight lighting up the inside off the tent from the outside. Sitting by their own on one of the tables was Alice. She was already wearing her everyday clothes and was shown to be eating a bowl of cereal with a glass of apple juice. She was just silently eating her food when someone suddenly came inside.

"Hello? Is anybody here?" A new voice called out. Alice looking up from her food saw the newcomer walking inside. The newcomer took notice of Alice and quickly approached her. "Hi! My names Alysson." The new person introduced themselves. Alysson wore a light blue sleeveless hoodie with a white tank top underneath, jean shorts with ripped designer ends, and low brown boots. Wavy silver hair done up in high ponytails with two long strands flowed down from the sides of their face. The newcomer stared at Alice with their ruby red eyes before speaking up. "Are you by chance Alice?" Alysson asked.

"Yeah. What is that you want?" Alice said in response. Alysson just gave her a bright smile after hearing this.

"Great! Then that means you might know where Kazuo is!" Alysson exclaimed happily. "I was told I could find him here with you but it turns out he wasn't." Alysson explained with a slight frown. "Do you by chance know where he is?"

"Yeah, but who told you he would be here with me?" Alice asked looking rather critical about this newcomer.

"A cute boy called Blake told me~" Alysson purred at the mention. "Though that friend of his looked scary. I think Paris was her name?" Alysson thought back.

"Hmph. Well, you got the wrong information for I don't know where he is." Alice insisted. She kept a steady cold stare at Alysson as she examine the newcomer further. "If you want to find him, go towards the cabins then." She suggested.

"Uhh, okay. I'll be taking my leave now." Alysson took a couple steps backwards before turning around to face the exit. "Hmm, what's her deal?" Alysson thought for a moment while walking towards the exit. As Alysson flipped open the tent's entrance cover, Alysson started to squeal in excitement to who was outside. "Oh my god! Kazuo!" Alysson bolted out of the tent. Some faint giggling was heard afterwards.

As soon as Alysson left, Alice felt slightly curious about the two. Thinking over it for a second, she soon got up and stood by the entrance. Flipping over the cover just slightly she peaked outside only to see the two holding on to each other close. Alysson's arms were wrapped around Kazuo's neck while Kazuo had his arms on Alysson's waist. Alice listened in carefully to what the two were talking about.

"Oh you don't know how much I missed you Kazuo! I'm glad Chris decided to invite me over!" Alysson said in excitement.

"Yeah, its been a while as well." Kazuo said with a small smile. "Let me guess, is this the little secret you told me in our phone call?" He now asked. Alysson just giggled at him.

"That, and for something else." The former winked at him.

"Would you mind telling me what the something else is?" The latter also now asked. Alysson just brought in their lips close but stopped before they could even touch.

"Maybe if you'll give me a quick kiss then I might just tell you." Alysson whispered in a sultry tone.

Giving off a soft chuckle, Kazuo pulled Alysson away from him but kept Alysson within arms reach. Staring deeply into Alysson's red eyes, a soft smile was planted on his face. As the two continue to stare at each other, Alysson could already feel the pressure and intensity of the moment building up.

"Umm...uhh...K-Kazuo? Y-you wanna say something?" Alysson said stammering. Alysson's heart started beating faster and faster as each second ticked by. Without saying a word, Kazuo quickly leaned in forward while at the same time making Alysson lean back. Kazuo slid his right hand down on to Alysson's back during the entire process until he was finally carrying Alysson. He soon started to play with the back of Alysson's hair causing a big gulp as a response.

"Hmm, even though I already knew your little secret you still act this way towards me. How interesting." Kazuo said with sly grin. Alysson couldn't say anything given the situation they are in and just clung on tightly onto Kazuo's neck. "Hmm, I wonder..." Kazuo soon started to slowly trace his fingers up Alysson's back. The sheer sensation plus the anxiety was enough to drive Alysson crazy.

"K-Kazuo...s-stop it!..This is embarrassing!" Alysson pleaded while trying to hold back. Kazuo just ignored his old friend's pleadings and continued on with tickling Alysson's back. After a short while, Kazuo suddenly stopped and grabbed onto Alysson's chin. He lifted Alysson's face up to meet his.

"Hmm, if only-" Kazuo was suddenly cut off when Alice suddenly came stomping out of the tent. She suddenly grabbed Kazuo by the collar of his shirt and dragged him away.

"Kazuo, we need to talk. Now!" Alice demanded before dragging Kazuo away. Alysson got dropped onto the ground because of it.

"Oh, umm, okay?" Kazuo responded while looking a bit confused. He looked back forward only to see Alysson sitting up now. "I'll see you later I guess!" Kazuo waved. No response came for Alysson looked a bit flushed while panting heavily. This caused Kazuo to grin but failed to notice Alysson grinning back.

"Heh, we'll see." Alysson said in a hushed tone.

(Confessional)

Alysson: Hmm, it feels nice to be in here again...Anyways, that Kazuo, still the same as always *giggles*. Not that its bad thing since in all honesty I kinda like it. Makes things a whole lot more interesting. *winks*

(End Confessional)

The camera now following the two showed Alice dragging Kazuo towards one of the cabins. The former opened up the cabin door and shoved the latter inside. She then went inside and slammed the door shut.

"Ah! Alice?! What's going on?" Laren was heard off-screen. The camera turning around showed Laren finishing up with wrapping her towel around herself. Her long white hair was dripping wet still. "Eek! What's Kazuo doing here?"

"I'll explain later!" Alice answered. She soon turned back to face Kazuo to confront him. "Tell me, whats the deal between you and that girl earlier?" Alice questioned him with her arms crossed and a hard glare. Kazuo was still confused about his situation.

"What? What girl?" Kazuo now asked. He still didn't know what was going on.

"Don't play games with me Kazuo! I saw you earlier with that girl. Alysson if I remember her name right." Alice said confronting him about Alysson.

"Oh...Alysson. Yes, her." Kazuo said with a slight grin. "Don't worry about it. We're just old aquaintances is all." He now answered.

"Uh-huh, yeah. That's hard to believe given how you two were acting earlier." Alice was starting to get impatient with him. "Now, I'll ask you again, what's the deal between you and her." She asked once more. Soft chuckling was soon heard from Kazuo.

"Fine. If you must know, me and Alysson were once in a T.D. before." Kazuo now said with a small grin. "If you're going to ask why...she's here, then I'll have to say I don't know either." He explained. Alice still looks rather skeptical. "What? Its true. Alysson didn't tell me why." He insisted further.

"Mhmm. Sure." Alice calmed down a bit but still looked rather skeptical about him. She walked towards the door and stood their for a moment before turning around to face Kazuo once more. "If that's all you have to say then I guess we're done here." She held the door open. "Knowing you though, there's probably more to it. Now get out."

Kazuo just stared at Alice for a brief moment and looked like he was about to say something else but just kept it to himself. He instead just walked towards the opened the door. He stopped just before exiting the doorway to face Alice once more.

"Well, I'll be seeing you later during the challenge then." He said before finally leaving. Alice soon closed the door shut.

"Hmph. Stupid piece of-" Alice stopped as she realized Laren was still standing in the room with her. "Oh, forgot you were here."

"Umm, care to explain what just happened?" Laren asked. "Also, can I have some privacy? Please?"

"Oh, umm, sure." Alice quickly stepped outside of the cabin.

(Confessionals)

Kazuo: Well, that was certainly interesting. Didn't really expect to see Alysson again. As well as getting that sort of reaction from Alice. I wonder why they decided to bring h...er, her here. Is it because of Alysson's little secret? If so, should I spoil it already for the viewers? Nah, that'll be to boring. I'm sure it'll be revealed later on eventually...or maybe not. *chuckles*

Alice: That Alysson girl. Normally I wouldn't care much but knowing that her and Kazuo have some sort of relationship with each other makes things a whole lot more unsettling. I wonder why Chris decided to bring her here for? Knowing him its probably for a challenge but for what? I need to keep my eyes peeled for whatever she has to offer. Having Kazuo on my plate is already troubling enough.

Laren: Hmm, based on how Alice explained it, it seems as though Kazuo is already taken. I wonder though why Alice is making such a fuss about this? *eyes widened* Wait...is it possible that Alice actually likes Kazuo and is getting jealous? If this ends up being all one big misunderstanding then I support them all the way! I mean, a tsundere relationship tends to end up being the cutest one so hopefully it might turn out that way for them.

(End Confessional)

The scene now changed to inside the virtual world. The sound metal clashing, grass rustling, and loud grunting was heard throughout the area. The camera panning towards where the sounds came from showed Dylan and Nathan duelling on the open field.

"Ha!" Dylan slashed his sword down onto Nathan. The latter managed to block the formers blow with his katana. With the two now in a blade lock, Nathan took the initiative and pushed Dylan back. The gamer now stumbling, Nathan took his chance and slashed Dylan sideways. "I don't think so." Said Dylan as he blocked with his sword.

"Hmph." Nathan pulled himself away from Dylan. He soon took on a defensive stance.

"You know, you're not a half-bad fighter. How come you don't show it often?" Dylan asked as he held his blade forward. Nathan didn't say anything and just charged straight at him. Seeing the attack coming, Dylan moved his sword forward to meet Nathan's and soon they were stuck in another blade lock. Both sides doing their best to not get bested by the other.

"That's because I'd rather keep to myself and not have all the attention on me." Nathan now answered as they both struggled to push the other off. He soon decided to turn his body sideways and took a step back causing Dylan to start fumbling forward. With Dylan now exposed, Nathan tried to slash down on him but Dylan managed to turn around and block the attack.

"Heh, nice try." The gamer grinned. He soon shoved Nathan away and brought his sword back into an offensive stance. "Let me guess, your plan is to just drift on by until merge hits, right?"

"You could say that." Nathan answered as he recomposed himself. He took on another defensive stance.

"Fine. How about I make you an offer then?" Dylan asked with a small grin. He soon dropped his stance and sheathed back his sword. Nathan saw this and did the same.

"Okay. What is it?" Nathan asked looking rather suspicious of him.

"Well, how about being part of an alliance with me? Since you know, your plan is just to drift on by people might think your just dead weight even though your not." Dylan explained to him. "So? How about it? For security purposes."

"Interesting offer but...let's just say I have a safety net." Nathan answered with instead. "You should really watch out for your own back instead."

"I see." A frown was now casted upon Dylan's face. "Still...you should reconsider. Since that net of yours is only as safe depending on how high you set it." He soon drew his blade and pointed it towards Nathan. "Now have at you!" He charged forward.

"Hmph. We'll see." A small grin was shown on Nathan's face as the two clashed blades.

(Confessional)

Dylan: That Nathan. He's a skilled fighter alright. With a levelled head as well! You'll rarely see the two working in tangent. Take it from me. I've played with a bunch of people online on multiple platforms and people like him are hard to come by. You either get paired with someone who's highly skilled but have their egos reaching as high as the sky, or have someone who can keep a calm demeanour but don't have the skills necessary to back it up. It would be a shame really if he gets eliminated now that merge is close. The only one left like that here is Clint. But he's on the other side of the divide.

Nathan: Not gonna lie. Dylan does make for a tempting offer. Having two forms of security will ensure me to reach merge. But the question for me remains...can I really turn my back on Ginger and Paris? I mean, we weren't all close, well, me and them at least back in our old team, but they do seem to trust me. *sigh* Well...I'll just have to wait and see really.

(End confessional)

The scene now shifted to the opposite end of the forest where Blake, Ginger, and Lucette were shown to be. The three of them were just taking a long walk through the forest. Blake was the one leading them with Lucette following happily along except for Ginger who had her arms crossed with a bored look on her face.

"Ugh, why did you drag me all the way out here? I could be using this time right now for some needed training!" Ginger started to complain.

"Oh come on now, have a break every once in a while. I mean look at this place? It offers just the perfect conditions for a leisurely stroll!" Blake answered back to her with a warm smile. "Don't you agree?"

"If you mean by 'perfect' being risking our lives in a forest filled with traps and monsters. Then yes, I totally agree." Ginger said in a very sarcastically. "If this is your attempts on wooing me then I suggest you change your approach since I'm not that type of girl." She said while looking at him coldly. Blake didn't know what to say after that one. Silence fell between them for moment until Lucette spoke ip

"Well, I for one think this is a grand idea!" Lucette said breaking the silence. "I don't mind getting a wild encounter so as long as you're here. Since I know you'll come in and be my shining knight." She held on to Blake's right arm. Lucette soon gave him a bright smile. Blake didn't know how to act to this as well.

"Well, umm, okay. Glad you liked it. Though you weren't supposed to be here to begin with." Blake said back to her. Lucette felt a bit down after hearing that one but still manage to hold on to a smile. The prankster though was a bit oblivious to this.

"Oh, umm, like I said before going here, I really didn't mind." Lucette soon slowly let go of Blake's arm.

"Smooth one Blake, smooth." Ginger started shaking her head. She soon stopped walking causing the other two to stop as well. "Well now, if you don't mind me, I'll be heading on back." She turned her heel was now facing the other way. She stood there for a second before continuing to walk off.

"Ginger wait." Blake chased after her but stopped when a sudden gun shot was heard nearby. Everyone heard this and looked towards the direction it came from.

"Uhh, w-what was that?" Lucette looked a bit anxious. The other two just had intent looks towards the other side of the bushes to where the gun shot was heard.

"I don't know. But whatever it is we need to be careful." Ginger slowly drew out her twin pistols. The shadow blades soon emerged as she held on to them.

"You guys stay here. I'll go and check it out." Blake said to them in a hushed tone. He already had his bow out.

"Yeah, no. I'm not buying any of that hero crap!" Ginger answered back to him as she stepped on up.

"What? No! I a...*sigh* Fine. Just keep it down okay?" Blake asked of her. Ginger just scoffed but slowly crept towards the thick bushes. The prankster just let out another sigh before following just behind.

"Be careful guys!" Lucette pleaded from them as she watched them walk off.

As the two slowly walk towards thick bushes and trees, they soon stopped when they noticed some movement happening. They both held out their respective weapons as they aimed them carefully right at the site. Waiting patiently now the bushes started to rustle a bit more vigorously until a new comer emerged.

"Hmph. Barbaric fool." A dashing young man wearing a light grey trench coat emerged from the bushes. He held raised in his right hand a silver revolver with his finger on it's trigger. Striking, well combed, silver hair lay atop his head. "That's the last time I'll let that dastard of a host-" He paused as he took notice of the two aiming their weapons at him. He stared at them with his piercing silver eyes and raised brow before speaking up. "And who might you two be?" He scanned each one of them. "By the looks of things you two are some of the contestants I presume?"

"Yeah? And what about you? What are you doing in our virtual world?" Ginger questioned the newcomer. She kept both guns aimed at him still.

"A better question being who allowed you to be here anyways?" Blake added in as he kept is bow steady. An arrow laced with flames was aimed right at him. "And you better lay down that gun of yours as well!" He demanded as he pulled back on the string.

Seeing the position he was in, he complied with what Blake said and kept his revolver inside his trench coat. "My name is Nicholas Blackburn." He introduced himself calmly. "As for who let me in, it was that fool of a host of yours. He told me to enter the virtual world to get re-acquainted with its feeling." He explained to them. "Satisfied?" The two just looked at each other for a bit before coming to an agreement. Both of them soon laid down their arms.

"Okay Nicholas. Tell us then, why did Chris bring you on over?" Ginger interrogated him further. A small smile was soon shown on Nicholas' face.

"For my purpose I'm afraid I can't answer that. As for my reason on being here however, its pretty much obvious as to why Chris will bring in a guest." Nicholas answered. "Now that I've entertained your questions, its time you answered mine. Will the three of you give me the honour of your names?" He asked them in a cool tone.

"The names Ginger. Ginger De Maringey to be precise." She introduced.

"And my name is Blake Harvington." He introduced with a cocky smile.

"I see." Nicholas nodded. He soon took notice of Lucette staring at him from the back. "And who might you be miss?" He asked her.

"Oh umm uhh..." Lucette was speechless. Ginger sighed.

"Not this again." Ginger shook her head. "Anyways, her name is Lucette. Lucette umm..." She started snapping her fingers.

"Pretzel! I mean, umm, Quetzal! Oh, umm, yeah..." Lucette answered looking quite embarrassed. Nicholas soon gave her an intrigued look.

"Hmm, its nice to meet you as well." Nicholas smiled at her. Lucette suddenly felt like her heart skipped a beat for she looked rather flushed.

"Uhh, umm, y-yeah..." Lucette started to stammer. She was about to say something else but stopped when an announcement was heard.

"Attention everyone!" Skell's voice was soon heard echoing throughout the forest. "The next challenge is about to begin. Please be here in challenge building within the hour. That is all." The announcement ended and soon the portal back to the real world appeared.

"Well now, I think that's our cue." Nicholas walked on up towards the portal. "Please. Ladies first." He extended an arm towards them.

"My, aren't you such a gentleman." Ginger gave Blake a smirk as she took Nicholas' hand. She soon disappeared inside the portal.

"Hmph. Whatever." Blake said back at her just before she entered he portal with his eyes narrowed. He soon entered the portal right after. Lucette was now the only one left. She just stood their staring longingly towards him.

"That only leaves you, Lucette." Nicholas extended his hand out once more. "We don't want the others to be waiting." He said in a smooth tone. Lucette soon snapped out of it and came back to her senses.

"Oh, umm, uhuh." She shyly took his hand and went on in as well.

Nicholas now left, he let out a deep sigh. "Well...this is going to be a long day." He said looking rather bored. "At least I could resolve a couple cases. Especially since she's here." He now looked a bit spiteful. He soon entered the portal.

The scene now shifted to inside the challenge building. The two hosts were already standing by the control panel accompanied by Nathan and Dylan standing in the middle of the room. They all watched as Ginger, Lucette, Blake, and Nicholas came out of their pods.

"Well, it seems you already met our special guest for today's challenge." Chris said to them.

"Who's he?" Dylan asked as pointed towards Nicholas.

"I'm Nicholas. Its a pleasure to meet you." Nicholas held his hand out for a shake. Dylan grabbed it and shook them both.

"Nice to meet ya. My name is Dylan by the way." Dylan introduced himself. "This guy here is Nathan." He pointed towards his teammate. Nathan just gave him a wave.

"Nice to meet you as well." Nicholas extended his hand to him but Nathan just backed off.

"Its okay. There's no need." Nathan said a bit quietly. Nicholas just raised a brow at him but thought nothing off it as he returned his hand.

"Okay Nicholas, enough with the formalities. You'll get to introduce yourself properly once everyone is here. For now just stand right over here." Chris motioned for him to move. Nicholas just gave him a nod and walked on over. "Now where's Alysson? I even told that freak show to not leave the building!" He looked rather irritated. "I swear, if the others found out about Alysson's little secret before the challenge begins-"

"Don't worry. I made sure something like that didn't happen." Skell said cutting him off.

"Really now?" Chris suddenly noticed the bruise Skell has on his forehead. "And what happend to you face?"

Skell started to shiver a bit. "You don't want to know."

---

(Men's bathroom. Earlier this morning.)

"Hurry on up Alysson! Some of the guys might catch you in here!" Skell was shown frantically pacing back and forth the entrance of the bathroom. The sound of water running was heard inside.

"Hey, its not my fault the girl's bathroom has people inside! I mean its not a problem for me but you'll look like a pervert if we decide to go there." Alysson answered back sounding a bit irritated with him. "And besides, luscious hair such as mine takes a lot of proper care to maintain!" Alysson added in.

"Ugh, whatever! Just hurry on up!" The former paused his marching to answer back.

"Fine! Just stop bothering me okay?" Alysson soon went back on taking a shower. A light humming tune soon followed.

After some time had passed with Skell still guarding over Alysson, the bright morning sun was already slowly rising higher and higher from when they started. As he continued his marching, looking quite nervous with each passing minute, he soon heard some light rustling nearby. Feeling a bit panicked now, he looked towards where the rustling came from and out came a squirrel. A sigh of relief soon left Skell.

"Phew. I got worried for a second there." He calmed down a bit. He soon noticed no sound was coming from inside the bathroom. "I wonder what's taking Alysson so long." He thought to himself. "Hey Alysson, you done in there?" He called out while knocking on the wall. No response came. "Uh, Alysson?" Still no response came. Feeling quite nervous now to what might have happened he quickly opened up the curtains and looked inside.

"Hey Alysson are you-" His face turned bright red to what he saw. "OH MY GOD! I'M SO SORRY I DIDN'T MEAN TO-"

"HIYAAAAH! FUCKING PERVERT! GET THE FUCK OUT!" Alysson screamed at him from inside the bathroom.

"Wait! No! Don't-" A pale was soon shown thrown at Skell hitting him on the head. He then got knocked down and fell straight to the ground. Pain filled groaning was soon heard.

---

(Challenge building. Present time)

The scene now returned to back inside the challenge building. All the remaining contestants were already inside including Alysson who was standing next to Chris at the front.

"Good. Now that everyone is here, its time for me to introduce these two." Chris said to them. "Starting things of with this, uh, lovely young lady." He said looking a bit disgusted.

"Hi!" Alysson waved at them cutely. "My name is Alysson. It's a pleasure to meet you all!" Alysson exclaimed. "Especially the cute guys I see are in here~" Alysson purred. "Mostly you Kazuo."

Everyone was soon heard talking to each other.

"Hey! That's the cute girl me and Paris saw this morning!" Blake pointed out. "I wonder why Paris looked like she didn't like her?"

"Hmph. I don't like her either!" Lucette pouted. Blake tilted his head by this.

"Oh so she's the girl Alice was talking about this morning." Laren now realized. "Good for Kazuo to have such a cute girlfriend."

"Wait, that's Kazuo's girlfriend? Huh, who knew Kazuo had it in him to ask a girl like her out." Ginger commented as she over heard Laren.

Kazuo though was just silently chuckling to himself through all this. Alice noticed this but just kept to herself.

"Okay enough talk. Chris said to silence them. "Its time for this...dashing young man to introduce himself." He motioned towards Nicholas.

"Good day to you everyone. My name is Nicholas. Its an honour to be here." Nicholas gave them all courteous bow. His gaze soon shifted towards Phoebe. "And its great to see you again as well." He gave the doll faced girl a small smile.

"Oh, umm, i-its great to see you again a-as well." Phoebe gave a shy smile in return. A lot of comotion happened when everyone heard this.

"What?! You and Nicholas know each other? How come you never said anything about having such a cool and suave friend." Lucette started to confront Phoebe.

"Th-thats because y-you guys never asked." Phoebe sheepishly answered.

"You have to tell me everything you know about him! As well as on how you two met!" Lucette now asked her looking quite excited.

"I, uhh, umm..." Phoebe felt pressured now.

"Oh, wow. Ain't he ravishing." Paris commented as she examined Nicholas from head to toe. "I wonder what kind of relationship he has with Phoebe?" She thought to herself. "Hmm, can Clint even keep up with that?"

A lot of talking was soon heard about the two special guests.

"Okay, settle down now. I'm going to explain why these two are here." Chris announced to everyone once more. The room soon fell silent. "Good. Now, the reason why these two are here is fairly simple. They'll be part of today's challenge. For you see, today's challenge is going to be a dating sim challenge! And these two here will be your dates!" He explained to them all. Mixed outcomes came from the contestants.

"Oooh. A dating challenge! This is going to be fun!" Lucette started giggling.

"Ugh, a dating challenge? Really? Why can't we just go back to killing stuff? At least then I wouldn't have to do any small talk." Leonard complained. "Especially with the likes of her no less." He glared at Alysson.

"A dating challenge? How would that even work? Will we be scored based on how well the date goes?" Janet questioned the host.

"Yup! You got that right!" Chris answered. "You all will be receiving points based on how well the date goes. If its successful then you get one point for your team. If not, then no points at all." Chris now explained to them.

"Why a dating challenge though? I thought this season is all about RPGs and stuff." Dylan pointed out. "I don't see how dating has to do with that in anyway."

"Hey, dating sims are RPGs to you know? I thought that would have been obvious for someone like you." Chris argued back at him. Dylan couldn't say anything else back. "Anyways, let me explain the mechanics of our dating sim challenge. For this challenge, the two teams will be split into two. One for guys and one for girls. Alysson here will be the one handling the guys date while Nicholas will be handling girls. Now, to make things feel like an actual date, you guys will be walking to the control panel to choose the date location and it's setting as well as choosing on what you will wear. Only one member from each team will do the challenge at a time while the others watch. Do I make myself clear?" He asked to end of his explanation.

"Quick question?" Ginger raised her hand. "Can we go on a date with the other one as well? You know, so that we can make a comeback if ever." She asked the host. Chris just shook his head.

"Nope. I'm not allowing that. Only one date per team." Chris answered. "And besides, I doubt any of the guys here will want to go on a date with another guy in-front of a camera." Chris pointed out. He soon heard Skell mumbling to himself. "What was that?"

"Oh nothing." Skell answered.

"Okay..." Chris said with a weirded out look. "Oh! And one more thing. You guys aren't allowed to leave here if you haven't finished your dates. Alright?" Everyone groaned after hearing this. "Anyways, lets begin! But before that." He paused as he looked towards the dusk team. "Dusk team. You must bench one of the girls for this challenge to keep things even." He said to them.

"I'll do it." Janet stepped up from her team. "I'm not too keen on dating so I'd rather sit this one out." She explained herself.

"Okay. That settles it then. Janet will be the one to sit this one out." Chris now declared. "With that out of the way, lets get this challenge started with the guy dates! Starting with you Blake. You're up first." He placed the prankster on the spot. Blake was taken by surprise to hear this.

"Wait, what? I'm not yet ready! I don't even know where to begin!" Blake said acting all panicked.

"I don't care." Chris stated plainly. "And you better hurry up. Otherwise I'll be disqualifying you for this challenge."

Blake, still not knowing what to do, was deep in thought on where the date will be held. After a short while an idea soon popped into his head. He soon walked towards the control panel and placed in the location. The place Blake decided to go was the zoo early in the morning.

"The zoo? Really?" Alysson looked rather bored with the location Blake chose. "I was thinking somewhere more romantic really." Alysson shook their head. "Oh well, this will have to do I guess. At least I don't have to think to deeply about what to wear."

"Hey, I haven't been on an actual date before okay!" Blake said to defend himself.

"And yet you plan on trying to win over Ginger. Good job, Blake. Good job." Paris shook her head at him. Blake was about to saying something back at her but Chris cut him off.

"No time for arguments. Just get in the pods so that we can get started already." Chris ordered them.

"Hmph. Fine. Lets get this date over with." Blake said before moving towards a nearby pod. It soon opened up and Blake went in. The glass pane closed down on him the moment he got into place.

"Yippee! I get to know what it feels like to be in virtual reality!" Alysson skipped on over to the pod across from. Alysson did the same and was now comfortably inside the pod.

"Now that those two are out of the way, its time to get this date started!" Chris sat down on his chair turned it around to face the control panel. With a couple command inputs, the large screen soon came to life showcasing Blake standing alone in-front of the ticket booth. He was just wearing his normal clothes for his date.

"Wait! You didn't tell me what exactly to do for this challenge." Skell reminded him.

"Your job as co-host is to watch over the contestants, right? Well, most of them are out here so you better get to watching." Chris answered him without even looking away from the screen.

"Well, ain't that boring." Skell let out a deep sigh.

"Not my problem." Chris snickered. "Anyways, its time for our audience to see what's going on i side the virtual world." The host pressed a button on his panel and soon the view shifted to inside the virtual world.

Inside the virtual world now, Blake was just standing outside the virtual zoo in the midst of a busy AI crowd walking in and out. He looked rather tensed for it was his first time going on a date. After a while of waiting he soon saw Alysson walking towards. His jaw dropped the moment he saw what Alysson wore flr their date.

"You like it?" Alysson asked with a cute smile. Alysson wore complete female safari outfit but the blouse was tied in the middle to expose Alysson's abdomen while the jean shorts were folded all the way up Alysson's thighs. Atop their head was a green alligator cap with small teeth like points hanging down the rim to form the snout. "Chris told me to wear anything I want for our dates." Alysson giggled.

"Umm, uhh..." Blake was still completely speechless. Alysson just kept on giggling due to how cute it looked.

"Let's go, Romeo. Otherwise we might miss all the cute animal shows inside." Alysson took Blake by the hand and dragged him towards the front gate. They lined up with all the other AI tourists right at the ticket booth to grab their tickets. As they reached the front of the line, Blake was surprised to see who was inside the ticket booth and handing out the tickets.

"Chef? What are you doing in-here for?" Blake blinked at him, still clearly surprised to see him here.

"None of your business, maggot." Chef said dismissively. He then handed out two tickets for the both of them. "Now head on in and get your date started." He growled at them. Not wanting to get in Chef's bad side, Blake quickly grabbed the tickets, gave him a quick nod, and headed on inside with Alysson just trailing behind.

Pass the front gate of the zoo now, a number of small stalls and boutiques surrounded them all filled with various items. Placed in the midst of everything by the front gate was a large fountain. A whale with it's tail arched above its body was the centre piece. Water came rushing out from both its blow hole and mouth.

"Wow! This place doesn't compare to the zoo we have back home." Blake looked quite astonished to everything he saw. "So what do you want to do first?" He asked Alysson who was clinging on to his arm. Looking towards his date now he noticed that Alysson was starring longingly off to the side. Looking to where Alysson was looking towards he soon saw what Alysson wanted to do first. Right across from them he saw a couple getting their picture taken with someone wearing a cute lion costume with a red bowtie and black top hat by a female staff personnel wearing a safari outfit as well.

"You want to take a picture with that lion, do you?" Blake now asked his date. Alysson hearing this quickly beamed with excitement.

"Oh my god, yes!" Alysson said excitedly. "Let's hurry before other people beat us to it." Alysson pointed towards the lion and was practically dragging Blake while doing so.

"Okay. Okay. No need to rush. We have the whole day before us." Blake said with a small smile as they walked together towards the lion. As the two approached the lion, it did a cute little dance in-front of them ending with both of it's arms open. Alysson finding this quite entertaining just giggled for a bit before standing underneath the lion's right arm. Blake quickly followed by standing on it's left. The staff personnel soon took their picture.

"Say cheese." The female personnel said right before taking their picture. After the shot was taken, the personnel pressed a button on the side of her camera and soon a slip of paper was ejected from small slit from underneath the camera. "Here you go sir. Just present this to the desk by the exit in order claim your picture before you leave." Explained the personal as she handed Blake the piece of paper. Blake took the paper and slipped it inside his pocket. With that done, both the lion and personnel left the scene.

"So, where to now Blake?" Alysson asked cutely and softly.

"Hmm, I don't know. Where do you want to go?" Blake asked her instead. Alysson just giggled at him.

"Playing safe huh?" Alysson said with a sweet smile. "Fine. Take me to where the sea lions are. I heard they're extremely cute." Alysson suggested.

"Alright. To the sea lions then!" Blake exclaimed proudly and loud. All the AIs that heard hi just looked at them weirdly before walking off. "Oops. Hehe..." Blake scratched the back of his head out of embarrassment. Alysson just started to giggle again.

"Come on, Romeo. Lets go before we get kicked out." Alysson held on to Blake's hand once more. They soon walked off together to where the sea lions are.

After a short while of walking, both Alysson and Blake made it to the sea lion enclosure. They held on to the railings as they watched the sea lion down below swim in its spacious pool. Another sea lion was spotted just resting on the platform next to the water.

"Aww. These sea lions look so cute! The way they waddle and slide on the ground as well as doing some neat tricks. Ah! I would do anything to have one as a pet!" Alysson beamed with excitement.

"They're okay I guess..." Blake just shrugged. Alysson over hearing this decided to press up against his arm and looked up at him with a pouting face.

"What do you mean they're just 'okay'. They're freaking ADORABLE!" Alysson insisted but looked cute while doing so. Blake couldn't help but laugh for he couldn't take Alysson seriously. "What's so funny?"

"Oh nothing. I just can't take you seriously with that face you're making." Blake started to laugh a bit once more. "You just look cute by doing so." He now said with a playful grin. Alysson's face turned bright red and just looked away with both arms crossed.

"Hmph. Stupide." Alysson looked a bit flustered now. Blake soon got worried for he might have just screwed up.

"Damnit! I was doing quite good as well!" Blake cursed himself in thought. He soon heard the speakers starting to act up.

"Attention everyone!" An announcement was soon heard. "The sea lion show is about to begin in a couple of minutes! Please be seated at the front of the stage by then. Thank you!" The announcement ended.

"Perfect!" Blake thought after hearing this. He soon approached Alysson and placed a hand on his date's shoulder. "Hey Alysson, the sea lion show is about to begin. Want to go watch?" Blake asked in a soft yet sweet tone that he could manage. Alysson just brushed of his hand.

"Hmph. Fine." Alysson answered back without even looking back at him. The former then held out their right hand behind them for Blake to hold. The latter though didn't know what this meant. "What? Are you not going to take me there?" Alysson looked a bit impatient now. Blake soon realized what he had to do now.

"Oh, umm, right. Lets go." He soon held Alysson's hand and took them both to the open stage where the sea lion show was held. As the two reached the bleachers, they sat down on the front seats nearest to the stage. After a short while the bleachers were soon filled with other people.

"Thank you everyone for joining us for today's show." A voice said through the speakers. "Now, without further ado, its Showtime!" The crowd started to cheer. A sea lion soon slid out from backstage. It then did a backflip the moment it reached the centre. Moments later, Chef came running out from backstage as well to stand next to the sea lion.

"What the? What is Chef doing here?" Blake asked in a soft tone. Alysson just lightly elbowed him.

"Shush! I'm trying to watch here!" Alysson scolded him softly. Blake just gave his date a weary smile.

The first trick Chef made the sea lion perform was making it wave at the crowd. The sea lion did as it was told to and started to wag it's right flipper at everyone. The crowd started to clap at this. For the sea lion's next trick, Chef brought out a hoop. Chef then commanded the sea lion to hop over in which it did. The crowd started to cheer again.

"Yay!" Alysson started clapping. Blake did the same but not as enthusiastically.

The next trick the sea lion did was for it to do a roll. As it finished performing, Chef soon tossed it a fish but instead of eating it the sea lion smacked it away with its back flippers and sent it flying towards Chef. The fish landed a direct hit on Chef's face and in turn caused him to fall down. The sea lion started clapping it's flippers together making the crowd laugh.

"Haha. Oh my god, that was hilarious." Alysson said while laughing.

"Yeah, I'll admit to that one." Blake answered back chuckling slightly.

Chef soon got up from the stage. He rubbed his face with his arm and brought out a ball from behind his back. Anger rushing through him now, he threw the ball the sea lion. The sea lion though managed to spike it back with it's back flippers. Chef got hit hard on the groin as a result.

"Oof. That has got to hurt." Blake said with a pained look on his face.

Chef then fell down on both knees before falling down face first. Two other staff members came in to carry him out. The sea lion started flapping it's flippers again making the crowd burst out in laughter once more. The sea lion soon did a couple nods of it's head to gesture a bow before the curtains closed. The crowd started to cheer once more.

"Thank you everyone for enjoying the show!" The speakers announced to the crowd. "But before you all go, we have to talk about something important." The curtains opened up to reveal the sea lion once more with various trash items on stage. Three thrash bins were seen behind the sea lion as well as a banner above saying the words reduce, reuse, and recycle. "You see..."

"Ugh...not this again..." Blake complained silently while the announcer was still talking. "They always habe these as a sort of half-time show."

"Well that's because they are important!" Alysson justified. "Especially if it means saving sea lions!"

"I know its important and cute and all but it gets so repetitive." Blake exasperated. "I've been to a couple zoos before and its always the same thing! Why can't they spice it up a notch?" He remarked. Alysson was about to say something else when the sound of small squealing was heard on stage."

"...Especially for the lives of these sea lion pups..." They heard from the announcer.

"Sea lion pups? Did they just say sea lion pups?!" Alysson suddenly stood up. Moments later three sea lion pups came flopping onto stage. "Oh mon dieu, ils sont si mignons!" Alysson exclaimed excitedly. One of the pups soon got close and Alysson picked it up. It licked Alysson's hand before starring back cutely. Alysson suddenly froze up in place.

"Uh, Alysson? Are you okay?" Blake said softly as he approached. He placed a hand on Alysson's shoulder. He looked at Alysson's face only to see his date starring deeply into the sea lion pup's eyes. Alysson taking notice of Blake soon gave him puppy dog eyes

"Puis-je le garder? S'il vous plaît! S'il vous plaît! S'il vous plaît!" Alysson started to beg. Blake didn't catch what Alysson begged him for.

"Umm, what?" Blake blinked. Alysson just kept starring at him without saying anything else and just presenting him with the pup. The prankster soon realized what his date meant.

"Oh I see. I'm sorry but I we can't bring it with us." Blake shook his head no. "And besides, I don't think its even legal for us to even keep one." He added in. With a sad look, Alysson placed the pup back on stage.

"Fine." Alysson pouted. The pup soon ran off. "Alright, lets go. We don't have much time left so we better wrap this date up!" Alysson said to him before leaving the area.

"Wait, what do you mean by that?" Blake chased after his date.

"Didn't Chris tell you that their is a time limit to this?" Alysson looked at him curiously. Blake just shook his head no. "What? Did you honestly think these dates would last the entire day?" Blake wasn't able to respond to that. Alysson started to giggle. "Now I get why you chose the zoo." Alysson just kept on laughing at him. Blake just felt a bit flustered by this.

"Hey! Its not my fault Chris didn't say anything!" Blake said in defence of himself. Alysson just continued to laugh at him.

"Oh mon, tu as l'air si adorable en ce moment." Alysson wiped away a tear and took in a deep breath. "Lets head on back, Romeo." Alysson winked. Moments later a beam of light showned right above them before transporting them out of virtual reality. Seconds later they were now seen exiting the pods at the same time.

"Did you guys have a fun time?" Chris asked them with a wide grin on his face.

"Yeah it was fun. I'm not sure about Blake though." Alysson said while giggling. Blake didn't say anything for he just walked on back to his team. Lucette suddenly clung on to his arm as he came and looking at him quite enviously. Blake though was oblivious enough not to understand why and just blinked at her.

"So, how would you rate this date? Is it a pass or nah?" Chris now asked Alysson.

"You know what, I'll give it to him. Mostly because he looks cute." Alysson answered flirtatiously. "I would even say he stole my heart~" Alysson now winked at him. Everyone just gave the prankster a judgemental look.

"You're not trying to steal Kazuo's girlfriend now are you?" Janet said accusingly. Blake was shocked to hear this.

"What?! I'm not like that! I swear!" Blake raised his hands up defensively. He soon heard Kazuo chuckling to himself. "Please Kazuo. You got to believe me!" He pleaded. "I don't even like Alysson!"

"Aww. That broke my heart to hear." Alysson frowned. "Because of that I'm going to take back that point."

"What? You can't just do that! Can she?" Blake looked at the host. Chris though just had a malicious grin on his face.

"Yes she can." The host answered while still grinning. "The scores are back to zero!" He declared. The dawn team just groaned at this.

"Good job, Blake. You just couldn't admit to your mistakes." Janet shook her head at him while making tsk sound. Mostly everyone from their team agreed with her.

"What? I- *sigh* Ah forget it. Fuck y'all." Blake stomped out of the room.

"Blake wait!" Lucette tried to go after him but got stopped by Skell who managed to grab on to her shoulder

"Don't try to go after him unless you want to get disqualified." The co-host said to her with a serious look. Lucette didn't say anything else and just stayed put.

(Confessional)

Blake: Whatever they said back there it's not all true. I'm not the type of guy that would steal someone else's girlfriend intentionally. Or unintentionally as a matter as well! If only that Janet hasn't spoken up then we would be leading with one point! *sigh* If we lose this I'm blaming it on her!

Paris: Perfect! Everyone now thinks Blake is some sort of player or something. Now Ginger and Lucette will think differently about him now! If not then at least they know Blake is bad at doing dates...Its not that I care or anything! Its just that its so pitiful to watch them really.

Alysson: Hmm, maybe I was a bit to rough on the poor guy. My mind was so wrapped around being called Kazuo's girlfriend that I couldn't help but act the role of actually being stolen by someone else even though I'm not. In all honesty I was sort of expecting him to do something random about it since he's well...Kazuo. Oh well, can't change it now. I wonder who's going to be my next date. *smiles*

Alice: Am I the only one that sees something wrong here? I mean if Alysson really is Kazuo's girlfriend or whatever then why is he so cool about this? There has got to be something more about that girl than just some flirty slut...What? Can't I be blunt and use that word? Its fairly obvious what she is by face value!...Oh please. Sugar coating will only lead to more misconceptions.

(End Confessional)

"Okay. Its time for the second date!" Chris announced to them. "Clint. Come on over for you're up next!"

"Clint? He sounds like he would make for a fine date. I wonder what he looks like?" Alysson started to ponder. Moments later Clint was now standing at the front of everyone. "Ooooh. I like you~" Alysson said very flirtatiously while slowly getting closer toward him. Clint wasn't phased by this at all and just shrugged Alysson off. "Hmm, the unflinching type as well. I'm going to have a lot of fun with you." Alysson started to giggle while whirling a finger on Clint's chest. Clint still wasn't bothered by this still.

"Break it up you two. Clint still has to choose his date location." Chris said while pulling Alysson away from him. With Clint now free, he soon went towards the console and started scrolling through locations. After a while of scrolling, he was soon surprised to one of the locations listed. Without much as a second thought, he chose the location and stepped away from the console. An image of a high school in the late afternoon setting was shown on screen.

"Hmm, a high school romance huh? A bit cliché but I'll take it." Alysson commented. "Especially to what they end up leading too. Un tel vilain garçon." Alysson giggled.

"Ah, I see you found one of our special locations." Chris pointed out with a grin on his face. Clint didn't say anything though. "Surprised? Well, I'll be speechless as well if I saw my high school listed on the database as well." The host soon let out a chuckle. "I would love to explain to you on how we were able to acquire such data about this place but I'm afraid we'll be running out of time. So chop chop and get this date started!" He motioned for them to get into the pods.

"I think I already know what I'm going to wear next." Alysson looked quite excited now. Clint didn't say anything and just entered the pod. Once both were inside the pods, the scene on the monitor now shows Clint standing outside the school gates. He was wearing his school uniform which consists of a light brown short sleeved dress shirt, a dark brown tie, and black pants. He was soon seen walking inside the school grounds.

"So where did you get the floor plans to his school? I was shocked as well when I found the data." Skell now asked his partner. Chris was just heard chuckling slightly.

"I'd rather place that on the down low for now." Chris answered him now. Skell just got slightly worried by this.

The scene now shifting to inside the school building showed Clint climbing up a staircase. As he reached the floor above, he soon started to walk down the halls. The late afternoon sun beaming through the hall windows giving the hallway an orange glow. After a while of silently walking Clint stopped in-front of a door with a sign reading "3C". Opening the door, inside the room is a computer lab with rows upon rows of monitors. He soon took notice of Alysson looking out through the window wearing the female version of his uniform. As he stepped inside and closed the door the latter now noticed him and gave the former a seductive look.

"Hey there. Chris said I'll be able find you here." Alysson walked slowly towards Clint. "So I waited. My...sen...pai." Alysson gave him small smile and a wink. "I also heard from Chris that you are the president of a computer club..." Both of Alysson's arms were now wrapped around Clint's neck. Clint was forced to take a step back due to the sudden grasp. "So what activities shall we do together my senpai?" Alysson whispered in a very provocative tone.

Clint, still keeping a composed look, just pushed Alysson away from him and walked on by. Alysson watching Clint walk away, watched as he sat down on a computer terminal at the back of the room. A small grin was shown on Alysson's face.

"Hmm, still not yet breaking huh? Let's see how long you'll last." Alysson moved towards Clint in a slow fashion with one hand being dragged against the tables. With Clint now close, Alysson sat down on the empty seat on Clint's left and watched what he was doing. Alysson saw that Clint was intently focused on playing a computer game and by the looks of it even winning hard as well.

"Mind if I seat here?" Alysson asked. Clint didn't give a response and just focused on his game. Alysson smiled and placed a hand on Clint's shoulder. "You know, its only the two of us up here with no one else in sight." Alysson now started tracing a finger down Clint's left arm and placed down a hand on top of his at the end. "We could do whatever we want you know? Without the risk of being caught." Alysson whispered the last part. Clint froze for a second but managed to shrug it off and ignore his date. He shook of their hand and just continued on playing. Alysson noticed this and just started to laugh slightly.

"Was that hesitation I noticed, senpai?" Alysson said softly. Clint just pulled his seat closer to the table. "Is it because of the game you're playing? Maybe I should help you unwind if that's the case." Alysson undid Clint's tie and proceeded to unbutton Clint's shirt but stopped on the fourth button. Alysson slightly pulled Clint's shirt apart and gently placed a hand on his chest. "Is that better?" Alysson giggled while caressing Clint's chest through his inner shirt. Clint just continued to heed Alysson no mind. Small beads of sweat started to drip down from Clint's head as he focused to play his game.

"Oh my! Is that sweat I see? Let me get that for you." Alysson slowly slid a hand down on to Clint's pants and started searching his left pocket. "Hmm, nothing. Maybe the other pocket perhaps?" Alysson tried to reach over to the other side but Clint stopped Alysson's hand before it could even move any further. Clint then started to wipe away his sweat with his shoulders before going back to playing his game. Alysson started to chuckle lightly at this.

"Oh Mr. Club president, you don't need to worry. I'm not the type that bites..." Alysson wrapped both arms around Clint's neck and got in close. "Unless you're into that." Alysson whispered softly into Clint's ear before giving it a small nibble. Clint tensed up after feeling that one but still manage to keep playing his game and not give in to Alysson's advances. Moments later bright flashes of red was emitted from Clint's screen signifying that he had been defeated. Clint just forcibly shoved the keyboard back under the desk and let out deep sigh of frustration. Another Malicious grin formed on Alysson's face.

"Oh my! Senpai. Did I cause that to happen?" Alysson gasped. "I'm such a naughty girl for causing this to happen. Since you're the club president its only fair that you should deal with naughty girls like me. So please, give this naughty girl the punishment she deserves." Alysson dropped down onto both knees on the floor. "You could even pin me against a window if you want." Alysson whispered in a sultry tone.

Clint, finally giving in, just pushed Alysson down onto the ground causing some of the nearby chairs to scatter. He then got up from his seat and stood over the latter while giving a sharp glare. Alysson seeing this was quivering slightly in fear but was heard chuckling at the same time. The former gave this no mind and knelt down on to one knee beside Alysson.

Alysson gulps, "S-so...is this the punishment you had in mind?" Alysson tried to reach a hand up on Clint's leg but Clint held on to Alysson's wrist and pulled it away. He then placed it down on the floor without letting go. Alysson made a pained expression but a small grin was shown upon at the same time. "So what are you waiting for my senpai? I won't fight back if that's what you are worrying about." Alysson said in a soft, alluring tone.

Clint, thinking heavily on what to do, just started to play with one of his date's long locks of hair while starring intently. After a short moment, the silence between them was soon interrupted when Chef suddenly barged in. Chef was shown wearing a security guard uniform with a flashlight in hand.

"What's with all the commotion in here?!" Chef yelled. He soon took notice of Clint at the back of the room. "You. What are you doing here boy? You should have went home already!" Chef scolded him. He then noticed the mess of chairs scattered all around. "And fix this mess before you leave or else!" He then walked out and slammed the door shut. Clint just stayed there looking a bit confused by all this.

"*sigh* If you didn't catch what he meant that just means our time is up. Chris told me before this all started that Chef will be watching over all the dates and interrupt us if we take up too much time in the most suitable fashion. In this case as a security guard." Alysson explained with a disappointed look. "And we were just getting to the good part too..." Alysson grumbled with a sad look. "Anyways, Chris, you can send us out now!" Alysson called out. Moments later both of them soon disappeared from the virtual world.

Back into the real world now, both Alysson and Clint got out of their respective pods at the same time. Everyone in the room was dead silent as they watched the former re-join his team. He felt a bit out-casted for even his team was starring at him differently but was surprised when Phoebe suddenly approached him.

"H-hey, are y-you okay?" The doll faced girl asked a bit shyly. "Y-you don't n-need to worry. No one h-here is against you. W-well...I'm not at least...Everyone was just s-surprised is all." Phoebe said without even looking directly at Clint. "S-so yeah umm uhh..." She didn't know what else to say and felt a bit embarrassed now. Clint seeing this couldn't help but feel a bit sympathetic for her. He soon started to pet Phoebe on the head which made her feel even more embarrassed and blushed.

"Aww...how sweet. Now I feel bad about seducing Clint so much." Alysson frowned. "Hmm, I wonder how much he feels for her?" Alysson started to ponder.

"Given the way he looks, I can give you a definitive answer to that." Nicholas answered plainly. Hearing this caught Alysson's full attention. Alysson leaned towards him and was about to say something but Nicholas interrupted before a word could be said. "Don't try to flirt with me. I'll arrest you on the spot if you do."

"Hmm...you're no fun at all!" Alysson pouted and crossed both arms. "But you're way to ravishing to pass up so I'll just let it slide." Alysson started nibbling onto a finger nail seductively while eyeing Nicholas. The latter now just rolled his eyes at this and shook his head.

"Hey Alysson you need to focus!" Chris snapped at Alysson. "You still need to determine whether or not the date was a success." He reminded. Alysson soon snapped back into reality.

"Oh, so sorry. Sherlock over here was just abiding my thoughts." Alysson explained. "Among other things at least."

"Yeah. Well, I don't care." Chris said dismissively. "Now tell me if it was a success or not so that we can get on with it." Chris was now getting impatient.

"Fine." Alysson answered before looking towards Clint once more. "Hmm, I'll give it to him. I did have fun after all." Alysson started giggling.

"How did I not see that one coming?" Chris just shook his head at himself. "Anyways, time for the next-"

"Wait! Why did Alysson call Nicholas Sherlock? Is he a detective or something?" Paris suddenly interrupted for she looked a bit nervous about something.

"Yeah. A private investigator to be exact." Chris answered. "I thought it would have been made clear already as to who he was since his name is pretty well known internationally." He now explained. "Well, to the police forces to be precise." He added. Paris calmed down a bit.

"Ah, I see. Never mind then. Sorry for the interruption." Paris gave a curt bow before heading towards the back of the room. Nicholas felt intrigue by this but kept to himself for now.

(Confessional)

Paris: Good thing Chris cleared that up. The investigators that came to me on that day were from Scotland yard and not from some silly P.I. group. For a moment though I thought my past came back to haunt me. Even if it did, I highly doubt some informal detective can out do England's best police force.

Nicholas: Hmm, she so easily dismissed me the moment Chris mentioned I wasn't from any 'formal' police force. Is that how confident she really is? Hmph. She mustn't have met a Blackburn yet.

(End Confessional)

"Time for the next date!" Chris announced. "Dylan. You're up next!" The host called the next contestant over. Dylan heard this and did what he was told. "He's a hard-core gamer if you must know." Chris added in. As Dylan joined them in the front, an idea soon popped into Alysson's mind.

"Well, I wouldn't exactly say that but yeah. Anyways, its a pleasure meeting you." He extended a hand forward to Alysson. The latter though just ignored this and didn't say anything. Alysson just examined the way the former looked and found nothing interesting about him.

"Hmm. Not exactly my type but it'll do I guess." Alysson said plainly. "Now hurry on up and choose a location so that we can get this over with." Alysson looked bored with him now.

"You guess? You can't just size me up just like that!" Dylan complained. Alysson didn't seem to care and just ignored him. Everyone was surprised with sudden change in character. "Are you even listening to me?"

"No." Alysson abruptly answered. "Now, are you going to choose the location or what?" Alysson was now getting impatient.

"Fine. I'll choose a location alright." Dylan made his way to the control panel in a huff. He sat down on the chair and quickly scrolled down all the choices. His eyes soon lit up the moment he found what he was looking for. "Perfect." A devious grin soon formed along Dylan's face. After a few seconds he soon got up from the chair and took a couple steps back. The large screen soon showed a pizzeria with a bear wearing a hat as a sign late at night.

"A pizza date? Is that really the best you could think off?" Alysson said to him mockingly. Dylan was just heard chuckling to himself.

"Its no ordinary pizza restaurant, Alysson. This place has animatronics in them!" Dylan answered with a devious smile. Alysson wasn't impressed by this.

"What are you? Twelve?" Alysson asked sarcastically. Dylan just replied with a shrug. Alysson sighed deeply, "Lets get this over with." Alysson walked towards the pod from earlier.

"Alright. Let's see if your heart can handle this date." Dylan started to faintly laugh deviously as he walked towards his pod. Both of them are now safely secured inside the pod.

(Confessional)

Dylan: Yup. She's Kazuo's girlfriend alright. Only someone like him would date a girl with a twisted personality. From being sweet and innocent to a full on bitch in a matter of seconds clearly screams psychopath. Now I'm curious on how these two even met in the first place...Wait! Scratch that. Knowing Kazuo its probably somewhere random. Like in some sort of uncharted place or something owned by some sketchy guy.

(End Confessional)

Inside the virtual world now, Dylan was just waiting outside the pizzeria's front doors. Only the bright lights being emitted through the glass doors and windows were the only places providing light around the area he was in.

"Where is she?" Dylan asked no one as he looked around the empty parking lot in-front of him. He just wore his regular outfit for his date except he brought along his sword with him. Moments later he soon spotted Alysson approaching from the distance. "Ah. There she is...seriously?" Dylan was left dumfounded as he saw what Alysson wore for their date.

"What? Why are you starring at me like that for?" Alysson raised a brow with both hands on both hips. Alysson was shown wearing a plaid, red cardigan with a black crop top underneath, ripped jean short shorts, and fishnet leggings. A reversed blue cap is placed on top of Alysson's head to finish things off. "And what's with the sword?"

"Oh. Umm...no reason. I just thought I would bring it to impress you is all." Dylan lied with a fake smile. "So are you impressed?" He now asked. Alysson though wasn't buying his lie.

"Impress me how?" Alysson looked quite skeptical now. "To compensate for your small di-"

"Anyways!" Dylan interrupted. "Lets head on in and order some pizza already. For I bet you're already starving after those two dates." He then held one of the doors open. "After you." He gestured for Alysson to walk in. Alysson just let out a sigh to this.

"Whatever." Alysson said before walking in. As soon as Alysson walked in, Dylan was heard lightly chuckling from under his breath.

"Lets see if you'll still have that smug look on your face after this." Dylan proceeded to lightly laugh a bit deviously.

"Are you going to head on in or what?" Alysson called from inside.

"Coming!" Dylan answered before walking on inside and closing the door.

Inside the pizzeria now, only Alysson and Dylan were the only two people inside the place except for three different animal animatronics on the front stage of the establishment. The animatronics on stage was a bear holding a microphone, a rabbit with a bowtie, and a duck wearing a bib. All three of them were just moving in-place as if they were dancing.

"Wow. Such a fantastic place to have a date." Alysson said with a bored tone. "You couldn't have chosen a better place than this." Alysson added in a very sarcastic way.

"Don't worry about it." Dylan assured. "I can assure to you that this place is a lot of fun than it seems." He smiled. "Now lets go and find us a seat. Maybe the ones next to the animatronics? That looks like a fun place to be!" Dylan suggested. Alysson just shrugged at this.

"Whatever." Alysson said before moving towards the empty seats near the front stage. Dylan just trailed slightly behind his date. As both of them finally got seated, Chef soon approached them with two menus in-hand. He wore a complete waiter outfit with a name tag on the side of his chest.

"What will it be?" Chef asked as he brought out a notepad and pen.

"Umm...one large pizza that is one half spicy jalapeno with cheese and bell peppers and the other half being full on cheese and pepperoni. "Dylan answered. Chef jus looked at him funny. "Oh! And a large coke as well." He added. Chef rolled his eyes and wrote down Dylan's order.

"And for the lady?" Chef asked Alysson this time.

"Hmm. A basket of fries will do. As well as an Iced tea." Alysson answered. Chef wrote this down as well.

"Eh. Yada yada yada. Your orders will be here in twenty to thirty minutes." Chef returned his pen and pad back into his pocket before walking off.

"That was an oddly specific order." Alysson commented on Dylan's order. "Can they even make all that?"

"Meh." Dylan shrugged. "Anyways, lets talk for the time being."

After half of an hour has passed, Chef soon came back pushing a cart with their food on top.

"Here you go kid. Your large custom pizza and drink." Chef placed a large platter down on the middle of the table with the pizza Dylan ordered. He then placed the drink right beside Dylan. "And a basket of fries with an iced tea for the girl." He then placed down Alysson order on the table. "Anything else you two might want?"

"Nope. I'm good." Dylan shook his head. Chef turned to face Alysson.

"Same here." Alysson answered.

"Good. Enjoy your meal then." Chef was about to walk off with his cart but Alysson suddenly stopped him.

"Wait! May I ask where the bathroom is though?" Alysson now asked. Chef just rolled his eyes and pointed down the hall.

"Its just down there. Next to the security guards office." Chef directed. "Is that all?"

"Yup. Thank you!" Alysson replied with a sweet smile. Chef just scoffed and walked on off back to the kitchen with the cart with him. With Chef now gone, Alysson got up and started walking towards the bathroom.

"Hey, what's with the sudden need for the bathroom?" Dylan asked just before Alysson could get far.

"And why would you want to know that?" Alysson leaned forward a bit with crossed arms.

"N-no reason...Just curious is all..." Dylan looked away from his date.

"Hmph. Pervert." Alysson said before leaving Dylan alone. As soon as Alysson left, the lights around Dylan started to flicker for a bit.

"Shit. Not now. Alysson needs to be here for this!" Dylan looked quite frustrated now. His expression suddenly changed as he heard some metallic screeching near by. He turned around to face the stage only to see the bear animatronic missing. "Not good at all." He reached behind for his sword only for his hand to bump into something metallic. "Shit."

The camera now shifted to follow Alysson walking down a poorly lit hallway. Alysson was soon shown passing by a small empty stage with the curtains spread wide open. Alysson decided to stop right in-front of it for a moment.

"Hmm. I wonder what this stage is for?" Alysson thought. "Must be for something special." Alysson concluded. A loud slam was suddenly heard down the hall. Alysson looking down the hall now saw two closed doors facing each other with only one of them having a window with light seeping through. "Oh, there's the bathroom!" Alysson now thought.

The camera skipping ahead of Alysson showed the bathroom door with the symbol being shined on by the light escaping through the door opposite to it. A symbol with both the male and female signs was placed on the door.

"Same sex bathroom. How convenient." Alysson walked inside the bathroom now with the door closing behind. As the camera watched the bathroom door for a few seconds, a shadow of a head with pointed ears suddenly appeared on the door. A shadow splatter covered it up seconds later.

Back in the main dining hall now the place was a complete mess for broken tables and chairs were scattered everywhere. Dylan was shown to be standing in the midst of it all with his sword raised in-front him. His clothes were slightly torn with some noticeable bruises all over his arms and some on his face. The lights kept flickering every now and then as he stood there waiting.

"Damn...I knew I should have worn my armour instead." He said with a pained look. "I never thought it would be this hard." He gritted his teeth. Standing right in-front of him was the bear animatronic just standing idly by. As the light flickered the bear kept moving ever so slightly towards him.

"Grr. Take this!" Dylan swung his sword down on to the machine but the light flicked once only to show it had caught the blade with one hand. With another flick Dylan was suddenly raised up from the collar of his shirt and feet swinging. "Gah...let go!" Dylan kicked but was to no use. With another flick of the light Dylan was sent flying across the room and hitting the wall hard. He groaned out in pain and coughed up some blood as a result.

"AAAAAH!" A high pitched screaming was soon heard down the hall from him.

"A-Alysson?..." Dylan picked up his sword and pushed himself up. "Ugh...I'm coming!..." Ne tried to run on over to where Alysson went but got forcefully pulled back by the animatronic after the lights flicked once. "D-damn...*cough*" The gamer collapsed on to the floor with his vision slowly getting blurry.

As the lights flickered once more, the animatronic was now standing over Dylan. Another flick and soon it held Dylan's sword in it's hand. Another and soon the blade was now raised above the animatronics head. Dylan seeing this couldn't focus much on it for his consciousness was slowly fading. With lights now turning off once more it no longer turned on again right after.

Back in the real world now Dylan qi0uickly got out of his pod the moment the glass pane opened jp. He fell down on to his knees and was breathing in heavily. Everyone was just starring at him shocked to see him like that.

"The fuck...was that!..." He said in between breaths. He looked up from his position only to see Alysson looking down on him with both arms crossed.

"Good job loser. You got us killed on our date!" Alysson glared at him. "What were you even thinking anyways? Putting us in some sort of murder restaurant!"

"It was just supposed to scare you alright!" Dylan argued back as he got back up on his feet. "My plan was to scare you and come in to save the day." He explained. "And because you were such a total bitch earlier." He grumbled.

"What was that!" Alysson confronted him and looked very irritated with him now. Dylan couldn't say anything and took a step back out of fear. Gasps was heard around them. "Next time, why don't yo-" Alysson was suddenly cut off by the sound of laughter. "Whats funny?" Alysson turned to see where it came from. Kazuo was the one spotted to be laughing. "Kazuo?"

"You can stop acting now Alysson. I think he already had enough." Kazuo said while trying to supress his laughter. He took in a deep breath to calm himself a bit. "And besides, the whole skater girl act doesn't suit you. Normal you is way more attractive anyways." He said with a modest smile. "And cuter as well. Heh."

"Uhh...mmm...Y-you r-really think s-so..." Alysson started to blush heavily. Dylan was speechless with the sudden shift in personality. "Hmm...now you're making me wish that all those proposals you made were real!" Alysson started complaining. Everyone couldn't believe what they just heard.

"Heh. You wish." Kazuo said under his breath.

"Wait. Hold on. Kazuo's engaged? Out of all the random things I've seen him do, hearing this tops it off." Alice shook her head at this. "Is this the reason why Alysson was called?"

"I don't know about you but I kinda find this oddly sweet." Laren commented.

"Yeah. I totally agree!" Lucette chimed in. She let out a long sigh. "I can only imagine Blake proposing." Ginger came over and suddenly smacked her at the back of the head. "Ow...what did I do this time?"

"Eh, I forgot to give you one when we first met Nicholas." Ginger shrugged. "You acting that way reminded me to give you one." She gave off a sly grin.

"Ugh. All this commotion just because some guy is getting hitched." Leonard slowly shook his head at everyone. "What's with women getting all excited when they hear about marriage anyways?" He asked to no one in particular. Nathan hearing this just gave him a shrug.

"Now now, Leonard. No need to get all toxic just because Phoebe doesn't like you." Paris joked. Leonard shot her with a piercing glare but Paris just kept on grinning.

"Hey...is Alysson really engaged to Kazuo?" Skell asked Chris in a hushed tone.

"Don't know don't care." Chris said plainly. "Anyways!" Chris clapped which got everyone's attention. "Lets get a move on! Alysson. Was Dylan successful or not?" No response came for Alysson was to busy idly standing around and daydreaming. "Alysson!"

"Huh. What?" Alysson snapped back into reality. "Oh. Right. The score." Alysson now remembered. "Eh. Didn't like it. I didn't even get to eat my fries either!" Alysson pouted.

"I'll take that as a failed then." Chris responded. "Making the scores still one to none! Advantage being on the dawn team!" He reminded. "Time for the next round to commence! Kazuo. Come on up for you're next!" He called the next contestant.

"Wait!" Alysson interrupted before Kazuo can even move. "Can Kazuo be last? Please?" Alysson pleaded with puppy eyes. "I want to savour this date more than anything!"

"Fine. Just...stop starring at me like that. You're creeping me out!" Chris said finally giving in to Alysson's plea.

"Yippee!" Alysson jumped up in joy. "I'll pay you back in any way I can for this!" Alysson assured. "In. Any. Way." Alysson repeated in a more seductive manner.

"Yeah...I'll take a rain check on that." Chris cringed a bit. "Anyways. With that out of the way, its Leonard's turn next. Leonard. Come on over here!" He now called for the next contestant.

"Ugh. Fine." Leonard groaned. He then started walking towards the front.

"Leonard? What kind of guy is he though?" Alysson asked.

"Oh you'll like him." Chris smiled. "I heard from Blaineley that you like a man in charge. So, who better than an actual gang leader!" He exclaimed. "So what do you say to that?" The host now asked his special guest.

"Oh...you mean to tell me he's one of those street thugs?" Alysson looked a bit dissuaded now.

"Yeah. Is there a problem with that?" Leonard confronted Alysson.

"If that's the case then never mind. I'll pass on this one. I don't like dealing with brutes like him!" Alysson turned Leonard down.

"What? Is this a joke? You can't just deny me a challenge just like that!" Leonard complained. "How is that even fair anyways? You're not even giving me a chance here!" He now argued.

"I don't care." Alysson said plainly. "Now move out of the way for the next contestant."

"Like hell that'll happen!" Leonard roared. "We're going on this date now!" He demanded. Leonard then reached on over and forcefully pulled on Alysson's arm.

"Ah! Let go off me! That hurts!" Alysson tried to pull free but couldn't manage to.

"Chris. Do something!" Skell urged his partner to make a move. Chris just blocked off Skell with his right arm.

"Cool it, Skell. Lets just see what happens next first." Chris said back to him with a devious looking grin on his face. Skell though, didn't like this idea at all but stayed put in his place still.

"Will you stop resisting already? You're giving me a shot at this and that's final!" Leonard demanded from Alysson.

"No!" The latter yelled back. Alysson then swiped away at Leonard's arm using the sharp nails on their hand.

"Gah!" The former now pulled his arm back to him. This caused Alysson to stumble down on to the floor. "Why you little...!" He suddenly gasped as he felt a cold metallic object prod at the back of his neck.

"Okay, that's enough now. I won't stand any longer to such insulant misbehaviour!" Nicholas said from behind Leonard. Everyone in the room was speechless to see Nicholas pointing an actual gun behind Leonard's head. "Now. Why don't we just calm down and accept the fact that you won't be given a chance. Resist and I'll just have to blow your brains out." The detective calmly threatened.

"Hmph. I doubt you even have the guts to do so." Leonard answered back.

Nicholas pulled back on his revolver's hammer making a click sound. "Try me."

"Leonard. I suggest you back off now. Nicholas here is not messing around." Chris now warned. "Believe me. I've seen him do way more messed up stuff in his season." He started chuckling to himself. "So what's it going to be Leonard? That choice is yours."

Both Nicholas and Leonard now just stood their motionless and unflinching as they waited for the other to move. Nicholas' hold on his gun just kept getting tighter with each passing second waiting for any signs of resistance. Moments later, Leonard just gave up on his stand and took a slight step forward.

"Fine. Whatever. I don't care any more." The former said in a low tone. The latter now pulled back his gun and placed it back in it's holster. "I'm outta here." Leonard brushed passed everyone in the room with both hands in his pocket. He pushed open the doors and stepped out. Silence filled the room with only Alysson's light whimpering to be heard.

"*sigh* Get up Alysson. You still have your duties to perform." Nicholas extended a hand over to his snivelling companion. Alysson noticing this just wiped away the tears before grabbing on to Nicholas' hand.

"*sniff* T-thanks..." Alysson said while getting up. Both of Alysson's eyes were still red due to all the crying. "I-I just need a moment for myself though. Hold on." Alysson quickly exited the building. Everyone just watched the special guest walk on out without any form of resistance.

"Aww. Poor girl. Who knew Leonard had it in him to actually rough up a Alysson like that." Laren said with a frown.

"Yeah. Someone should really teach that guy a lesson on how to treat a girl right." Ginger added in. "What really bites though is that we teased Phoebe on to him." She now shook her head.

"Hey Kazuo. Come on over here for a bit." Skell called. Kazuo looked interested and walked on over.

"What do you need?" Kazuo asked with a slight grin.

"Listen, I need you to go on over and check up on Alysson." The co-host now answered. "If things calmed down; get Alysson back here ASAP!"

"But why ask me though? Why not just send Mr. Smooth detective here instead? You've seen how Alysson easily swooned over him." Kazuo pointed out to him.

"Because I'm not asking you. I'm ordering you. Now go or otherwise I'll disqualify you on the spot." Skell answered back in a much more serious tone.

"Alright. No need to tell me twice." Kazuo turned his back to Skell now and started walking towards the exit. "See you all in a bit." He gave everyone a back-handed wave just before he left.

"You do know Kazuo has a point?" Chris judged Skell's decision. He still had a notable grin on his face.

"Shut up. I know what I'm doing!" Skell answered. "I hope so at least..." He thought.

(Confessionals)

Leonard: I can't take it anymore! No matter what I do it feels like everything is stacked against me! With every passing challenge my failures just keeps on getting worsen every time. I sometimes even wonder why I'm still in the running for this! Is it because they see me as a liability rather than a threat? Are they just keeping me around because I'm just that easy to boot? I just...*sigh* You know what? Fuck it. That's what! If I end up losing before merge then so be it. If not then I'll just have to hit them hard to make them regret not kicking me out when they had the chance!

Kazuo: It's not even passed noon and yet a whole lot of interesting drama has ensued. And we're not even done with the first half of the challenge to top things off! Also, I just want to clarify on something before a lot of crazy rumours get out of hand. Me and Alysson aren't actually engaged. We just did it to get some free shit. Okay. Enough stalling. Time to confront that drama queen.

(End Confessional)

Half an hour has passed since Kazuo has left to find Alysson. Skell was shown to be anxiously walking back and forth in-front of everyone while Chris just sat on his chair with his legs crossed. Nathan was standing next to Chris for he was the next one to do the challenge.

"What's taking them so long? What are they doing out there anyways? Skell pondered as he continued his anxious pacing. Chris just gave him a shrug as a response.

As if on cue, both Alysson and Kazuo walked inside the building. The former though was clinging on tightly on to the latter's right arm while looking a bit flushed. Alysson's head was just resting Kazuo's shoulder as they walked.

"Hey guys." Kazuo greeted. "Took us a while but we're finally back! Alysson here took a while to stop crying." He explained for the both of them.

"Yeah. I'm so sorry about that." Alysson gave everyone a low bow. "But I'm here now and ready for my next date!" Alysson gave everyone a cheery smile. "And I think that cute boy over there is who I'm going out with next." Alysson pointed towards Nathan with a seductive look. Nathan just gave a shy wave in return.

"Yeah. Now come on over here so that we can finally begin." Chris motioned for Alysson to step on forward. "And as for you." He now turned his chair to face Nathan. "Go on and choose your location."

Nathan replied with a quick nod before walking towards the control panel. He quickly scrolled down the available locations while carefully scanning each one. Moments later his quick scrolling has stopped and pressed a button on the panel. On the monitor now showed a wide building with a cantered triangular roof and a staircase leading up to it's entrance. A statue of the lion was placed on each side of the staircase. A sign was carved just above the main doorway with the words "Public Library" written on it.

"A library?" Alysson looked confused. "What are we going to do there exactly?"

"Up to you really. I just chose this place because I feel more comfortable around books than people really." Nathan meekly answered.

"Okay then..." Alysson replied. Alysson's eyes suddenly widened for an idea suddenly came. A small grin soon formed. "I'll be expecting you inside later then." Alysson walked passed Nathan and quickly approached the pod. "*hic* Sorry. My bad. Hehe..." Alysson apologized before entering the pod.

Nathan though was reluctant to move from his spot. After a short while he drew in a deep breath and exhaled it all out. He then marched towards the empty pod and hopped on in. The glass pane closed in on him and he quickly fell asleep. The monitor lit up seconds later to show him at the bottom of the staircase while wearing his regular outfit as well.

"So Kazuo, how did you calm Alysson down?" Skell asked him now. Kazuo just chuckled and gave him a small smile.

"Well, it took lots of ice pops for starters." Kazuo answered. "Oh! And one more thing." He started searching inside his pocket. Moments later he held his fist right in-front of Skell.

"What's this?" Skell placed his palm underneath Kazuo's hand. The latter now opened up his hand and dropped a broken lock and hinges on the formers palm.

"Tell Chef he's going to need a new lock for his freezer...and for his liquor box as well." Kazuo said with a wide grin. Skell was left both surprised and speechless by this.

"God...save that poor kid's soul..." Skell feared for Nathan.

(Confessional)

Nathan: Okay. I sort of lied a bit as to why I chose the library. The main reason being is that I've picked up a few things from Clint's date since he was only one who received a point. My plan is to simply stay in my comfort zone and try to ignore all of Alysson's advances like what Clint did. The hard part though being that of actually applying it. Hopefully this plan of works for the better since I'm the last chance my team has to receive a point for the first half.

Skell: Welp...poor Nathan I guess. Not only is he dealing with all of the sexual advances. He's also dealing with Alysson being drunk! I wonder how this'll affect the show's rating after Nathan's date is shown?

Alysson: *hic* Hehe...Kazuo sure did make a good point...going on a date half drunk would make for a fun challenge. Haha! *hic* I just hope...I can keep it together. Otherwise...heh...let's just say you'll just have to use your imaginations. *winks*

(End Confessional)

Back inside the virtual world now, Nathan was just abiding his time standing around outside the library's main entrance. His eyes were scanning around the empty street in order to spot Alysson and prepare himself for what's to come. Moments later he spotted his date-to-be walking in from the left side of the street. The latter's movements though were a bit wobbly raising some concerns for the former as his date made it to the bottom of the staircase.

"Hi!" Alysson waved and sounded all cheery. Alysson wore a plain white blouse underneath a black coat, a black tube skirt, and black heels. "*hic* Whoa!" Alysson stumbled forward while attempting to climb the stairs. "Ouch...ah. A little help here?"

Nathan seeing this quickly ran down the stairs. He lifted Alysson up and placed an arm around his own shoulders. They both slowly climbed up the stairs and entered the library together.

Inside the library held a massive collection of books and other works of literature all placed on rows upon rows of shelves. Stairs leading all the way up to multiple floors held even more books for them to read through. Placed on the centre of it all was a large globe with the earth slowly rotating on it's mantle. Nathan walked ahead of Alysson to marvel at the sight of it all.

"Wow...this place looks wonderful!" Nathan exclaimed looking quite awestruck.

"Shush! Keep quiet!" Chef's voice was heard scolding him. Nathan turning his head around saw Chef glaring at then while wearing an office worker's uniform with a pair of rectangular glasses. A name tag with his name written on it had the word "librarian" written underneath it. Nathan was about to say something but Chef snapped at him before even forming the words. "I don't want to hear it!" He said sternly. "Just keep quiet so that I don't have to throw you out. Got that?" Nathan just gave the man a quick nod. Without saying anything else, Chef walked off.

With Chef now gone Nathan let out a sigh of relief for that possible challenge ending scenario was now over. Composing himself now he looked behind him in attempt to rejoin Alysson only find his date gone.

"This is not good." Nathan felt panicked as he scanned all over the place. Moments later he found Alysson walking down a line of shelves up on the second floor. Without a moment to lose he quickly chased after his date with his foot steps echoing throughout the halls.

"Hey! No running!" Chef was heard yelling angrily at him. This caused Nathan to flinch and stop just before heading up the stairs. "Good. That'll be your last warning before I throw you out of here!" Chef warned him from off-screen. Nathan wanted to say something but quickly changed his mind and faced back up the stairs. He ascended the stairs as quickly and quietly as possible before finally reaching the top.

"Now, where did she go?" Nathan thought while moving pass several rows of book shelves. He soon came to a stop the moment he reached where he last saw Alysson. "I hope this doesn't affect my team's chances of winning." With a worried look, he entered the isle and followed down the narrow path before him. Nathan looked down every gap between the shelves to see if he could spot his date but had no luck in doing so. Moments later he finally reached the end with only a closed high window right in-front of him.

"*sigh* No luck at all." Nathan said to himself with his head held low.

"Looking for someone?" A soft voice said to him from behind. Nathan quickly turned behind him only to see Alysson leaning slightly forward with a lustfilled stare and a small grin. The latter's face was slightly red due to all the liquor.

"Uhh...A-Alysson. Are you alright? You don't seem to look well?" The former pointed out as he noticed the state Alysson was in. Alysson's grin only grew wider at the mention of this.

"I don't know...Am I?" Alysson got in closer. Nathan took a step back but his back was already pressed against the window. "Maybe you should place a hand on me and check?" Alysson said in a rather suggestive tone.

"I-I don't think that's necessary." Nathan nervously answered. "And please, can you move back a bit? You're getting awfully close." He pleaded now. This only enticed Alysson to draw in even closer. "Wh-what are you doing?" He asked. Both of their faces were now clowe to where they can feel each others breath.

"Kiss me." Alysson whispered.

"W-what?" Nathan was now sweating bullets.

"I said kiss me." Alysson repeated in a more seductive tone.

"I-I don't think that's a good idea! I mean we just mmmph..." Nathan was interrupted when Alysson suddenly pulled him in for a kiss. They pulled away from each other moments later.

"You talk to much...you know that?" Alysson said before pulling Nathan back in for another long kiss.

Back outside the real word everyone's jaws, except Kazuo's, all dropped to what they all just watched. All the volume was off so nothing can be heard from the other end. An awkward silence filled the room for no one wanted to say or do anything about it.

"By the gods...I can't watch this anymore! Aaah!" Skell yelled as he placed both hands to cover his eyes.

"As long as I don't here it I don't care!" Chris answered back with his back and chair facing away from the monitor.

"What's wrong with those two? Its not like this is the first time they watched someone kiss someone else!" Ginger crossed her arms at them. Laren, who was standing behind her, just shrugged.

"Hey Kazuo. How come you're so chill by this? That's your fucking future wife for crying out loud!" Alice confronted Kazuo.

"Eh. What happens happens." Kazuo shrugged. "I'm more interested on what's going to happen next. Alysson is drunk afterall." He said with a small grin. This only pissed Alice off even more.

"She's what?" Alice was surprised to hear this.

"Umm, Kazuo. Sorry to interruput but you need to see this." Lucette urged him as she got close to the two. The camera now showing the screen once more showed Alysson breaking away from Nathan and just gave him a lusful look. Alysson then knelt down in-front of him while Nathan was way to stunned to move at all.

"Uhh, what is Alysson doing?" Alice asked. The scene on the monitor panned down a bit to reveal Alysson slowly attempting to undo Nathan's belt. Alice turned red after seeing this. "Nope. Nope. I'm not watching that." She looked away. Lucette though just had her eyes covered at this point. Kazuo though was just simply laughing at the two's reactions.

"Ah!" Phoebe was heard getting startled at the side. The camera pointing towards her now showed Paris standing in-front of Phoebe with both hands blocking Phoebe's eyes.

"No Phoebe. You are way to young to watch this!" Paris scolded her.

"B-b-but I..."

"No buts!" Paris said assertively. "Hey Skell! Do something about this!" She yelled at the co-host. Skell hearing this removed his hands from his eyes and watched the monitor to see what was happening. On the monitor now showed Alysson already finished with undoing Nathan's belt and pant button and was just about to pull down on the zipper.

"Nope! This is not happening!" Skell quickly scrambled towards the control panel. He input in a couple commands before quickly pressing down on a flashing red button. Moments later the monitor shutted off and both pods containing the two suddenly opened.

"Ugh...what happened?" Alysson groaned while wobbly walking out of the pod. "And why does my head feel dizzy?"

"Damn...same here..." Nathan chimed in as he to got out of the pod feeling light headed as well.

"That's because Skell here forcefully pulled you two out of the virtual world." Chris answered them. "You two are lucky to only feel dizziness. When I tested this out on an intern before the season started he succumbed to extreme nausea." He explained to them.

"But why did you pull us out though?" Alysson now asked. "This headache I'm feeling makes it hard to remember."

"That's because you were about to give Nathan's little whistle here a blow!" Skell now answered. Nathan turned pale after hearing this.

"W-what?" He stammered.

"Aww really? How come you stopped me from doing so?" Alysson frowned.

"Because we can't show that on national tv!" Skell roared back.

"You can always censor it." Alysson said back with a playful grin. Skell though just kept a strong glare back at Alysson. "What? I was only kidding. No need to get all aggressive now." Alysson giggled. "Unless being aggressive is what you're into." Alysson added in a bit provocatively

"No. Now just get on with your thing and score how well the date went." Skell looked unamused with Alysson.

"Fine. Fine. No need to tell me twice." Alysson said with small smile and looked towards Nathan. "Hmm. Since I did decide to go all the way to give him a blowjob I might as well give the round to him." Alysson declared.

"You were drunk for the most of it. Are you sure about that?" Chris questioned. Alysson just nodded with a hum in return. "Okay. That makes the scores tied. Nathan. You may now return to your team." He guided Nathan with his hand. Nathan nodded without making a sound. "Kazuo. Its your turn now." Chris called in a bored tone.

"Yippee! I get to go on a date with Kazuo again!" Alysson squealed. As soon as Kazuo got all the way to the front of everyone, Alysson suddenly pounced on to him and latched on to Kazuo's arm. "So, where are you going to take me this time?"

"Somewhere fun." Kazuo answered with a mischievous grin. "Now let go of me. Otherwise it'll ruin the surprise."

"Aww. Fine." Alysson let go of Kazuo's arm. With Kazuo now free, he stepped forward towards the control panel and started to scroll through all the choices. He stopped moments later and entered in the choice he wanted.

"Done!" Kazuo exclaimed as he stepped away from the control panel. The scene on the monitor now showed a rustic looking restaurant with round wooden tables and chairs. Padded seats with square tables lined the walls of the place. And lastly, a bar area was seen at the back of the room with shelves filled with various liquors and drinks.

"A bar? But didn't we already have enough to drink a while ago?" Alysson gave Kazuo a confused look.

"Correction. You had enough to drink." Kazuo corrected. "Also. This a tavern and we all know what happens in taverns back then in the old days." He said with a wide grin. Alysson turned red after hearing this.

"Y-you mean...y-you w-want t-to..." Alysson felt all flustered and hot under the collar now. The former didn't say anything else and just walked towards the pods.

"I'll see you there, mon chéri." He said before entering the pod. Alysson just stood there, still frozen in place and deep in thought.

"Alysson." Chris called. No response. "Alysson." Still no response. "Alysson!"

"Huh, what?" Alysson finally snapped back into reality. "Oh. Right. The challenge." Alysson quickly went towards the empty pod and entered. A few seconds later the monitor now showed Kazuo standing inside the tavern by the doorway. He decided to wear his challenge clothing for his date.

(Confessional)

Kazuo: Okay. Time to see if my little experiment would work. I made Alysson drink earlier to see if drunkenness would carry over to the virtual world in which it did. Now time to see if getting drunk in the virtual world would carry over here in the real world.

Alysson: Me...and K-Kazuo...d-did he really mean what he said? Or am I just overthinking it? W-what am I even getting all worked up for? I mean its Kazuo. H-h-he does random stuff all the time so maybe I'm just over thinking it...right? Hmmm...what if he did mean what I thought? I d-don't know if I can even handle that! Foreplay maybe b-but that's as far as I am willing to go. M-maybe I should wear something cute for him just in case though.

(End Confessional)

Inside the virtual tavern, Kazuo was just sitting down on one of the bar stools. Standing over on the other side of table was Chef who was wearing a plain long sleeved collared shirt underneath a red velvet vest and a black bowtie. The former held a tall glass mug of beer while the latter was busy cleaning a glass with a piece of cloth.

"So tell me, bar keep, where are your maidens? I was supposed to be expecting one here." Kazuo asked before taking a large sip of his beer. "Hmm. Not as good as sake but it'll do." He says after placing down the near empty glass. "Another round please."

Chef hearing this just placed down what he was doing earlier underneath the table and grabbed Kazuo's glass. He placed it underneath a tap and beer started filling it up. Chef gave it back to Kazuo seconds later.

"Thank you!" Kazuo smiled as he took back his glass. He took a quick sip before placing it back down. "Now, about those maidens."

"You called? Mon maître." A soft voice suddenly out called from beside them. Kazuo, knowing full well who it was, just formed a small grin on his face and just continued on drinking. The camera panning to where the voice came from showed Alysson wearing a maid's outfit complete with white knee high socks and heels. Alysson held a silver platter close to their chest.

"Bar keep. I'll talk to you later." Kazuo spun his seat around before getting up. "Bring my drink for me." He told Alysson before walking on by.

"Oui, my maître." Alysson gave a small bow before picking up Kazuo's drink and balancing it on the platter with one hand.

"What do you even see in that boy." Chef asked without even looking up from his work.

"I'm more curious on what you don't." Alysson answered before leaving. Chef just grunted without saying anything else.

After a short and tedious walk Alysson soon made it to the new table Kazuo sat. Kazuo his was just busy reading his spell book while waiting

"Maître." The former spoke in a soft voice. The latter now looked up and saw Alysson standing there.

"Ah. Alysson. Asseyez-vous, s'il vous plaît." Kazuo closed his book and shifted closer to the wall.

"Oui, my maître." Alysson gave a courteous bow before placing Kazuo's drink down on the table and sitting down next to him. " Votre boisson, maître."

"Merci!" Kazuo took a long sip before placing it down half-empty. "*burps* Excusez-moi." He now rested his arm on top of the rail and behind Alysson's neck. Alysson just smiled and rested on top of Kazuo's shoulder with both eyes closed. "Qu'est-ce que tu fais?"

"Savourer ce moment." Alysson leaned in closer.

"I see." Kazuo took another quick drink. A thought soon came to him. "Alors dis-moi, crois-tu en la foi prédestinée?" He asked. Alysson just smiled.

"Si je le faisais, nous ne serions pas ici."

"Good to know." Kazuo took another drink. He soon felt the alcohol sinking in causing him to feel a bit light-headed. He shook it off and continued on talking. "Okay, dites-moi alors, pourquoi agissez-vous de cette façon?"

"Hmm. You know better than anyone else why, monsieur 'butterfly effect'." Alysson giggled. Kazuo laughed.

"Heh...you got me there." Kazuo drank once more until his glass became empty. He set it back down and pushed it away. "What do you hope in getting out of this anyway?"

"I don't know. To be with you finally? Like I've always wanted." Alysson nuzzled deep into Kazuo's neck. Kazuo feeling this just rested his head atop Alysson's.

"Is this a confession I here?." Kazuo lightly chuckled before rubbing his chin and mouth against Alysson's hair and head. "You do know you and I won't work out right? Given who you really are." He said with a muffled voice due to Alysson's hair.

"I know. So let me enjoy this, mon chérie Kazuo." Alysson wrapped an arm around Kazuo's chest. "Oh, and by the way. Comment ça se fait que tu n'as pas encore révélé mon secret? moi étant un garçon et tout." Alysson curiously asked.

"Wanted to play along." Kazuo answered. Alysson started giggling some more.

"This is why I like you." Alysson said sweetly.

"You're weird." Kazuo joked.

"You're the one to talk." Alysson said back with a small smile. "Now be still. Lets just enjoy this moment together."

"No! Now go get me more to drink!" Kazuo raised his glass up high. Alysson just laughed.

"Oui, maître." Alysson got up from his seat and took the glass. "Je reviens tout de suite." He said before walking off.

"Bring a second one with you too! I want you to join me for this round!" Kazuo insisted.

"Oui!" Alysson answered back.

(Confessional)

Kazuo: Here we go! Now the party begins! Yeah! Definitely not yet drunk!...I think? How did I even get in here anyways?

Alysson: Whoo! Kazuo sure is a fun drinking buddy! Maybe once this is all over I should invite him from time to time. And afterwards we can go to a motel or something and...oooh my heart is racing with excitement already!

(End confessional)

Back now in the real world all the remaining contestants had mixed looks on their faces as they watched the display in-front of them. The sound of tables and chairs breaking, fires burning, and glass shattering echoed throughout the room they were in.

"Wow. Those two sure are wild when drunk huh?" Laren asked Ginger who was standing right next to her.

"What did you expect? They're the most randomest couple I've ever seen!" Ginger claimed.

"Hey, at least we know Kazuo found someone he was meant to be with." The former smiled at the mention. "Unlike a certain someone I know." She motioned towards Alice who was standing across the room from them. Alice just had a disturbed and unsettled look as she watched the date in-progress.

"I doubt someone with a sharp of a tongue as her would settle for one really." Ginger concluded. An explosion soon blared out from the speakers.

"Hey! Put that down!" Chef's voice rang.

"Make me!" Kazuo's voice said back tauntingly. The sounds of flames roaring came afterwards

"Yeah! Show him who's boss, Kazuo!" Alysson cheered.

The camera now panned towards where Alice was standing. Disturbance was still written all over her face as she continued to watch on in silence.

"Um, Alice? Are you okay?" Janet approached her. "What's with that unsettling look you have?"

"Its nothing concerning. Its just that I'm learning a lot more about how messed up Kazuo really is." Alice shivered with a disgusted look. "Now I can't get that mental image out of my head."

"Um, what new things?" Janet asked with a confused look. "I gave up watching them the moment they started speaking whatever language that was." She explained.

"Its French." Alice pointed out. "And its a good thing you did as well. Otherwise you'll be mentally scared knowing about it."

"Oh come on. It can't be that bad. Tell me!" Janet insisted.

"You sure?" Alice gave her a questionable look. Janet just nodded. "Fine. I'll whisper it to you." Alice got in close for her mouth to be next to Janet's ear. As she continued on to tell her teammate about what she had learned, Janet's expression turned from curiosity into regret.

"You mean?"

"Yup." The former said with a nod. Janet looked towards the monitor to watch Kazuo and Alysson doing a drunken waltz around a struggling Chef encased in ice.

"Ew! Do you really think he does?" Janet questioned.

"To be honest I already gave up on trying to read Kazuo's intentions." Alice responded.

The camera now shifted towards the front to where the two hosts and Nicholas were. The three of them were just watching the monitor in silence.

"How long will this date last?" Skell asked Chris. "I don't think Chef can last any longer." The sound of Chef screaming soon rang out from the speakers. "Oof. That's got to hurt."

"Let's give them ten more minutes. This is fun to watch." Chris said while laughing. "What's the worst that can happen anyway?"

"Hey! Get back here!" Kazuo's voice yelled out.

"Go Kazuo! Go!" Alysson's voice cheered him on.

"W-wait! N-no!" Chef pleaded. A loud bonk sound soon got blasted out through the speakers.

"Ouch." The host said with a pained expression. "Okay. Other than that."

"Hey! Look at what I found!" Alysson exclaimed very excitedly. "A hose!"

"Quickly. Attach that thing to one of the beer faucets and attach the other end to his butt!" Kazuo insisted.

"Oui!" Alysson replied.

"Okay. That's enough. Skell. Get them out of there!" Chris commanded.

"I'm already on it." Skell quickly went to work on the panel. Moments later the screen turned off and both Alysson and Kazuo got ejected from their pods and fell on the floor. Both of them just groaned out in pain as a result

"Ugh...what happened?" Alysson asked with a hand on the side of his head.

"Maybe we destroyed the place so much that we got kicked out so hard that we even escaped the pods." Kazuo theorized while still a bit tipsy.

"Heh...you're funny Kazuo." The former laughed and the latter did as well. Everyone watched them as they just sat their laughing.

"Hey...wanna go back to the tent and see if they still have ice cream?" Kazuo suggested.

"Sure...I already know which popsicle to take as well." Alysson flirtatiously replied.

"Alright. Let's go!" Kazuo and Alysson soon walked out of the room and leaving everyone behind.

"Well that just happened." Skell said looking quite dumbfounded. "What do we do now?" He asked Chris. "Since you know, Kazuo just took of with our special guest."

"Nothing. We'll just have to move on with the next round." Chris declared.

"What about their scores?" Skell reminded.

"Alysson walked out right? We can just say that's a failed date." Chris answered back. Everyone from the diamond team was surprised to hear this with some of them not taking the news to kindly.

"What! That was more or less a successful date!" Alice argued. "You saw how much fun they had!" She added in.

"I agree!" Janet chimed in. "That at least counts for something!"

"I'm sorry ladies but Alysson has to declare the date as a succes. And since Alysson walked off with Kazuo without saying anything then that means its a fail." Chris explained to them with a devious grin. "Hey, look at the bright side. At least you all know who to blame now if you all end up losing." He laughed at them mockingly. "Anyways, the next round will begin shortly. Its almost lunch time and I bet all of your are tired from watching boring dates. Skell. Release Chef so that he may start cooking."

"Already on it." Skell replied while inputting in commands on the panel. Seconds later the pod holding Chef opened up with the mist flowing out. Chef flopped down on to the floor moments later and was lying there completely unconscious. His body looked to be aching with a lot of pain as well.

"Hmm. How unfortunate. Hey Nicholas, you received medical training right?" Chris asked the detective.

"You want me to treat him do you?" Nicholas read Chris' intention. The host didn't say anything but had a wide smile on his face. "*sigh* Fine. Where's the medical kit then?"

"I don't know. The stock room maybe?" Chris shrugged. Nicholas just face-palmed himself and sighed "Anyways. Everyone, you may all leave now. Just be back here in two hours alright?" Chris ordered them. "Oh, only the girls though since all of the guys are done. Well, except Janet." He explained. "You guys can watch if you want. Anyways, bye!"

"Wait! What about our food though?" Dylan asked. "What are we going to eat then? Since Chef here is knocked out!" He pointed out.

"Not my problem." Chris chuckled softly. "Ciao!" He waved before taking his leave. Everyone groaned out due to another day without lunch.

(Confessional)

Alice: Great! Kazuo's randomness just caused us our game once more! *sigh* Such a teammate to have. *shakes head* Not only that, he's quite sick in the head as well! I mean, he consented to trap of all things! Now I see why Chris invited Alysson over.

Janet: Ugh...Kazuo...what kind of sick fetishes do you even have? How far are you willing to go just to justify this whole butterfly effect shenanigan?

Kazuo: *still drunk* Experiment...success! Both me and Alysson...are still feeling the effects of intoxication even though what we drank wasn't real! I wonder how that works anyways? *banging on door*

*Alysson's voice* Hurry up Kazuo!...we still have lot's of ice cream to eat!...and you still owe me that popsicle of yours as well! *giggles*

*Kazuo* Okay!...wait, I mean not okay to that last one!

(End Confessional)

Two hours had already passed by now and all of the female participants are back inside of the building. The only men who were still inside are the two hosts and the special guest.

"So, how was lunch?" Chris asked them with a wide grin.

"Same as yesterday. Nothing!" Alice growled at him. Chris just laughed at her displeasure.

"Well, I hope you enjoyed it for y'all going to need the energy for your dates! Starting with you Alice!" Chris called her up. Alice just groaned and stepped on forward.

"Nice to meet you, Alice." Nicholas greeted with a smooth voice and a small smile.

"Y-yeah. Whatever." Alice scoffed and looked away while looking slightly red.

"Okay, Alice. Time for you to select your location!" Chris reminded her. Alice hearing this just pressed on forward towards the control panel. After a short while she soon stepped back with a location already selected. The large monitor now showed a very large and colourful tent. A large entrance sign with word "circus" was written on it.

"Hmm. As I thought." Nicholas said to himself. "Shall we be off?" He motioned for them to get a move on.

"Um, sure." Alice responded before walking towards an empty pod. Nicholas did the same and entered his own. Seconds later the screen now showed both of them standing right outside the entrance.

"Well, here we go folks! The first female date has now begun!" Chris said to the camera. "Let's see how well the girls will fare this time around." He chuckled softly.

(Confessional)

Nicholas: Unlike Alysson, I already knew what I'm getting into. I already made my research about these women before hand through some of my connections. I did this so that I won't be going in blind which in itself is a good thing. Because by doing so I was able to uncover a few things about each one. Especially one of them.

(End confessional)

Back again the virtual world Alice and Nicholas were shown walking inside the large tent. Both of them wore their regular outfits for their date. The inside of the tent was packed with AI audience members who were either already seated or still trying to find one.

"How about those seats over there?" Nicholas suggested as he pointed towards his lower left. The camera pointing to where he was looking at showed two empty seats in the middle of the stands and closest to the ring.

"I suggest somewhere a little higher. These seats over will be fine." Alice pointed towards the empty seats on their right.

"How come?" The latter asked in a curious tone.

"Unless you want to get sprayed on and get really wet, then be my guest. You'll know where to find me." The former plainly answered. The detective just chuckled softly.

"Fine. Ladies first." Nicholas offered in the same smooth tone as earlier. Alice scoffed and walked towards the seat.

"Whatever." She answered back while looking a bit flustered herself. She took a seat a couple feet away from the entrance and Nicholas sat down on the seat to her right.

"Attention ladies and gentlemen! The show is about to begin!" The announcer was heard through the speakers. Moments later all the lights shutted off while the spotlights just sporadically circled around the ring. A fast paced musical score started playing in the background and soon the ring master came marching out from the lower entrance in-between the seats. The lights focused down on him as he marched on towards the centre.

The ring master wore a black top-hat, a red-coat with golden chest padding, white trousers, and black shoes. A whip was attached to the side of his brown leather belt with a golden buckle while holding on to a cane on his left. His face was covered due to the lights beaming down on him. As the beat grew faster and higher he spread his arms wide open and slowly raised them up with it. As the beat continues on to rise along with his arms it soon cut-off suddenly and his arms stopped moving.

"Ladies and gents, this is the moment you've waited for." The ring master said in a soft singing voice as the beat started playing again. A lion soon came rushing after him and pounced. He ducked under the attack and tipped his hat forward. He cracked his whip as the lion came skidding to a stop. The crowd loved it and cheered.

"Wow. Is this how circuses do their intros now?" Alice asked with a judgemental look.

"Sadly, I can't answer that." Nicholas answered. "I don't normally do these sort of things."

The ring master continued on with singing his song as he and the lion moved around the ring along to the beat as if they were dancing to it. With every pounce the lion made, the ring master dodged with poise and grace. He cracked his whip every time the lion landed. This continued on for the next few minutes until his song was over and the lion was defeated. The crowd cheered at the display and ring master gave his bow.

"Did you enjoy that?" The ring master yelled at everyone. Everyone in the crowd yelled back their responses except for Nicholas and Alice who sat quietly on their seats. "Good. For there is still more to come!" He announced. Moments later performers came rushing inside the tent along with a number of different animals.

The crowd watched as all the different performances took place in the middle of the ring. Alice was just sitting quietly on her seat and looked to reminiscing about something. Nicholas taking notice of this, already formulated what to say to her for a knowing grin was shown on his face.

"So Alice, why decide to go to a circus for a date?" He asked. "I'm no expert on dating but I'm pretty sure places like these aren't meant for first dates." He explained himself.

"No reason. No one told us about this challenge so I just chose the first place at the top of my head that sounded like fun." Alice answered in a soft tone. She looked a bit down but wasn't to obvious.

"If so, then why do you look like you're regretting the decision?" The detective questioned her further.

"None of your business." Alice just brushed him off.

"Its about your mom ain't it?" Nicholas calmly pressed on. Alice hearing this was taken aback and surprised by this.

"What? How did you?"

"I'm a detective. Its my job to figure out clues and figure things out about you guys." Nicholas answered with a small smile. "Though under most normal circumstances it wouldn't really matter to me."

"If it doesn't matter to you then why bother researching about us then?" Alice confronted him about it.

"That's because Chris invited me." The detective calmly answered. "Chris wouldn't call me if he didn't have a reason. Just look at Alysson." He pointed out. "If he didn't then he would've just called in Wesley instead."

"Wesley? Who's that?" Alice looked confused by this.

"He's just an acquaintance of mine." Nicholas clarified.

"Okay then. So you're meaning to tell me that all of us girls here have something in common that warranted Chris to get a detective?" Alice summarized everything Nicholas told her.

"Not all of you. Just some in particular." Nicholas corrected.

"I see. Now that you know my mom is missing. What are you going to do about it then?" Alice now asked him.

"Don't worry. I already got one of my low ranking officers on it." Nicholas calmly answered.

"I don't know if I should be happy to hear that or treat that as an insult." Alice narrowed her eyes at him.

"You underestimate the Blackburns." Nicholas said back. "And besides, I'm not interested in missing person cases. Unless the results comes in as murder." He added. Alice felt her heart stop for a moment as she heard this. "So if you see me one day in your doorstep once this is all over, you'll know what to expect."

"Thank you everybody and have a pleasant evening!" The ring master said his fare well to the crowd. Everyone started cheering for him as everyone on the ring made their exit.

"Well, that's our cue. I'll see you outside." Nicholas got up from his seat and walked off towards the exit. Alice just stayed in her seat looking straight at the ground.

(Confessional)

Alice: No. That can't be! I won't accept the fact that my mom could possibly be dead out there somewhere! Grr. Screw Chris for inviting that hot-shot of a detective over! I hate them fucking both!

(End Confessional)

Back outside the real world now, both Nicholas and Alice were already out of their pods. The latter though was silent as she slowly walked back to her team. Her thoughts were still wrapped around what Nicholas had said to her while in the virtual world.

"Alice? Are you okay?" Laren asked her with a worried look on her face. Alice just brushed passed her. "Alice?"

"Wow. What an upset! One of the fiercest competitor in this game got easily shaken by Nicholas. I wonder how the others will fare up well against him?" Chris gave off a devious looking grin. "Nicholas. How would you rate the date?" He now asked the detective.

"Objectively speaking, it was a fail." Nicholas answered with a serious look. All the girls were surprised to hear this.

"Care to elaborate?" Chris asked again.

"Well. The interactions were a bit cold. Not only that, but because of how reliant the date is on the enjoyment of both parties on something uncontrollable. The choice of location was way too impractical due to the numerous safety hazards present. And the fact that the place smelled a bit rancid due to the number of different animals present. And that is just some of it." Nicholas ended his points. "Need I go on?"

Everyone was just left speechless on the detectives deductions.

"No. No need. I think you already melted everyone's brains with that." Chris replied. "Well, you heard it here. The date was a fail and the scores are still tied!" He announced. "Now its about time we get the second date started! You're up next, Ginger!"

"Finally! My time to shine!" Ginger proudly exclaimed as she walked up to the front. "If its near endless fun and excitement you want then I know the perfect place for that!" She walked up to the control panel and quickly made her selection. The monitor now showed an arcade filled with various types of games.

"An arcade date. Not my type of place but it'll do." Nicholas commented. "Shall we be off?"

"Uhh, sure..." Ginger hesitantly answered. Both of them soon got in there respective pods. The scene on the monitor now showed both of them standing outside the arcade's entrance.

(Confessional)

Ginger: I won't let that Nicholas dude intimidate me! I'll definitely be the one coming out on top. I can assure you all that!

(End confessional)

Inside the virtual world, both Nicholas and Ginger were already inside the arcade.

"Yo. This place looks fun!" Ginger said very excitedly as she scanned the arcade. "I wonder which game we should try out first?" She pondered.

"Hold on there." Nicholas stopped her. "Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't we supposed to get tokens first?" He pointed out.

"Oh right. Lets go get tokens first then we play." The latter now started walking towards the prize counter at the back of the arcade. "Wait right here. I'll be right back!" She said before leaving

"Good morning, miss. How may I help you?" A female employee greeted her.

"Some tokens please!" Ginger requested.

"Here you go, miss." The employee replied as she brought out a small pouch full of tokens.

"Thank you!" Ginger grabbed the pouch and walked back to where she left Nicholas. "Hey Nicholas, I got the...Nicholas?" She looked around only to see him gone.

"Over here!" Nicholas called. Ginger looking to where his voice came from saw him standing in-front of a large monitor playing a cut-scene of two game characters shooting at enemies. Two pedestals holding a controller in the shape of a hand gun was placed on top of it. A large pedal was placed underneath each pedestal. Nicholas had an intrigued look on his face as he watched the cut-scene.

"Hey Nicholas, want to try out this game first?" Ginger asked as she approached him. "I've played similar games like this before and they're a lot of fun!" She said happily.

"Okay. I'll give it a shot." Nicholas agreed.

"Great!" The latter exclaimed as she inserted two tokens into each pedestal. A mode select screen soon popped up on the monitor. Solo and link play were the only two options available.

"I assume you just simply aim and shoot with this, right?" The former asked as he picked up his gun.

"Yup. Like so." Ginger picked up hers and pulled the trigger on the link play option. The game soon started with it's opening cut-scene. "Also, if you want to keep shooting just step on the pedal. If you want to reload and use cover just stop stepping on it." She knowingly explained to him. "Got that?"

"Noted." Nicholas nodded with a small smile. The cut-scene soon ended and the game begun. Swarms of enemy gunners filled the screen while they're characters are hidden behind cover.

"Want me to go easy on you since this is your fist time?" Ginger asked.

"No need." Nicholas replied.

"Okay then. Just don't get all to sore knowing that I-"

"Move! Move! Move!" The game's speakers blared out cutting Ginger off as their characters started to move automatically. The score on screen showed Nicholas already have one thousand points while Ginger still have none.

"How did you..." Ginger looked completely mystified as she watched Nicholas easily clear out the next stage with perfect accuracy. The points are now two thousand to zero. The third stage of the level now played out.

"Are you going to play or just stand their and watch?" Nicholas asked her now. Ginger snapped out of the trance she was in and aimed her gun at the screen.

"Of course! You just got lucky because this was the first level. I'll show you how its done." Ginger soon started shooting at the enemies but her shots weren't as accurate as Nicholas and even loss a life in the process. "Dammit!" She cursed. Nicholas didn't say anything and just continued on playing. The level quickly ended and the scores now read two thousand seven hundred and fifty to two hundred and fifty.

The next level now played out and both of them quickly dispatched all of the enemy grunts. Nicholas managed to press on with the level while maintaining his perfect streak while Ginger loss another life. As they continued on to play a cut-scene soon started with the boss emerging with a helicopter. Both of them quickly prepared themselves as the battle started.

As they both skilfully managed to fight of the game's boss, Ginger loss her third and final life with the boss only having a fourth of it's life left. Her half of the screen was now blackened with the word continue in the middle of it. A twenty second timer was counting down as it waited for Ginger to insert another token to continue on playing.

"Okay. I'm done. You beat me good on this" Ginger looked a bit frustrated as she placed the controller back down. Nicholas quickly wrapped up the game as explosions echoed through the games speakers. The words level complete flashed out on to the screen as the final cut-scene played out.

"Continue?" Said an automated voice from the game. The options yes and no were blinking on screen. Nicholas went with the latter option and placed down his gun controller. "Game over." The final points now tallied up to be four thousand five hundred points to one thousand five hundred.

"So? How was it?" Ginger now asked.

"Wasn't much of a challenge really." Nicholas answered with a straight face. "Though the controller did feel substantially heavier than a regular hand gun which was the only off-putting part. My reflexes were a bit slower because of it." He pointed out. Ginger couldn't believe what her date just said.

"You call that slow? I barely was able to keep up with you!" Ginger argued. "Just what kind of detective are you?"

"The kind that won't hesitate to pull the trigger even if they are my own brother." Nicholas answered as well. Ginger took in a big gulp as an ominous feel crept up on her. "Now, we still have some time to kill. What else shall we do in the mean time?"

"Y-yeah. Follow me. I might know a couple good games around here." Ginger still looked a bit shakened as she walked on ahead of him. "Oh. And I'll make sure I beat you this time!" She declared in order to gain back some of her confidence. Nicholas just chuckled softly to himself as he followed her. The two of them just continued on to play the various arcade games with Ginger finding little to no success.

(Confessional)

Ginger: Grrr. Nothing is working! I can't beat him in air hockey or pin ball for that matter. For a person who claims to not take part in these sort of things he sure is skilful at them. I wonder what made him so good in learning things so easily?

Nicholas: As a detective it is only natural for me to pick-up things on the spot. Though saying that won't help much since everything here is so trivial. Oh well, at least this date went better than the last one.

(End Confessional)

After a long wait both Nicholas and Ginger finally got out of their respective pods. The latter had a frustrated look as she stomped back to re-join the other contestants. The former though paid no heed to this and just calmly walked back to the front.

"Hey Ginger. You look like you had a lot of fun!" Lucette greeted her with a smile.

"Not now, Lucette. I'm not in the right mood for this." Ginger answered in a low growl. Lucette just quietly backed off.

"Okay, Nicholas. What do you have to say about the date?" Chris asked the detective with a slight grin.

"She got me involved that's for sure." Nicholas answered. "Though it didn't feel like a date and more like some petty competition." He commented. "But I will give it the benefit of the doubt since I had some enjoyment during the entire thing. So I'll give her the point for that one." He explained. The dawn team girls felt a bit of relief after hearing that.

"Yay! We're in the lead!" Laren exclaimed happily.

"And we'll secure this lead once my turn is up. Given his criteria I think I may have the perfect place in mind." Paris said with the utmost confidence. "Especially if your date ends in a success." She gave Laren a pat on the back.

"Great. We're down a point." Alice groaned. "You two better be successful in your dates otherwise we'll be on the chopping block tonight. Understand?" She scowled at them.

"Y-yes. Ma'am!" Lucette gave her a salute. Phoebe didn't say anything and just hid behind Lucette. Alice just let out a deep sigh at them.

"Laren. You're up next!" Chris now called over the next contestant. Laren didn't waste much time and quickly walked on over to the front. "You already know what to do. Go on and choose your location." He stepped aside for Laren to walk on through.

"No need. I'll be using the forest outside the maze for my date." Laren said with a serious enough smile.

"Um, are you sure about that?"

"Yup! I'm sure about it."

"Okay then..." Chris trailed off for he looked a bit skeptical about it.

"Hmm. Considering I got attacked by whatever Chris thought off last time I was in there, the setting pretty much feels natural for me." Nicholas said with small smile. "Pardon the pun."

"Wow. I didn't know you had it in you to make jokes." Chris responded with a slight grin. "Now get on in there and get this date started!" He commanded them now. Both of them soon got in their own pods.

(Confessional)

Laren: Okay. The real reason as to why I wanted the forest outside the maze is so that I can have an asset of my own along the way. Merge is closing and if I want to make it further I need to fend for my own. Hopefully this plan works. Good luck to me I guess.

(End Confessional)

Both Nicholas and Laren are now standing outside the maze. Laren wore her challenge outfit for their date. Nicholas was just giving her an intrigued look as he examined her dress, her flaming cape especially.

"Hmm. Interesting choice in outfit." The former commented as he examined her more. He soon noticed she didn't have a weapon on her. "What is it that you do a here anyway?"

"Oh, um, I just provide some assistance is all." The later sheepishly answered. "Shall we continue this conversation while walking though? I mean this is the reason why we're here." She reasoned out with a faked a smile. Nicholas noticed it but didn't reveal anything yet.

"No need to rush. We still got plenty of time." Nicholas reasoned with a faked smile of his own. "So tell me first though. In what manner?" He questioned her further. Laren felt her heart sank for a second but kept her cool.

"Umm...this necklace of mine enhances the capabilities of someone I give a connection to." Laren explained as she held out her necklace. The jewel shined underneath the sunlight as she did.

"Gave a connection to? What does that mean?" Nicholas gave her a confused look.

"Let me show you." Laren pressed her palm against Nicholas' chest. She took in a deep breath and soon a bright veil of light surrounded them before quickly fading. A sudden convulsion of energy soon forced itself on to the detective causing him to forcefully breath out and took a couple steps back. He was breathing in heavily with some beads of sweat dripping from the sides of his face.

"What...was that?" Nicholas said in-between breaths.

"I just bestowed upon you my power." Laren's voice echoed in his thoughts. Nicholas was surprised to hear this.

"Wait? How did you?" He was a lost for words.

"Oh. Another thing I can do is speak telepathically to someone I have a connection with." Laren explained using her real voice. "I'm sorry for that. I should've told you before hand."

"No need to apologize. I was just caught unaware is all." Nicholas reassured. "Anyways, what power did you just give me?"

"Let me check." Laren looked at her necklace again. The jewel was now crystal blue in colour. "Ice magic it seems."

"Why do you sound so unsure?"

"That's because I have no control over what element I give. I just go by what colour the jewel turns into." Laren explained while looking quite embarrassed.

"Interesting. So how do I use this 'buff' that you've granted?" Nicholas asked now.

"Oh, umm, it usually affects the weapons the user has. Why not try out that gun of yours?" Laren suggested. Nicholas gave her skeptical look but decided to pull out his revolver either way.

"What?" Nicholas was taken by surprise when he saw his gun was emitting a light blue glow. Quickly aiming his gun at a nearby tree he pulled back on the hammer and fired. The bullet left a trail of frost as it exited the barrel and encased the tree in ice as it hits. He then fired another shot only this time to shatter the tree to pieces.

"Hmm. Safe to say you're an invaluable asset to anyone in this cast. Given how much destructive potential you can give." Nicholas reasoned. Laren felt quite happy to hear this. "However...like any asset you can easily be set aside once you are no longer needed. How do you plan on winning this if this is all you have to offer? You'll have to kill at some point. You know that. Right?" The detective interrogated her. Laren's smile quickly faded.

"I know. That is something I have yet to figure out." Laren frowned. "Only thing I can do now is hope for an asset to go my way."

"Is that the reason why you took me here?." Nicholas responded with a straight look. Laren was surprised to hear this.

"Wait. How did you..." She was now the one at a lost for words.

"Figures much." Nicholas shook his head low. "Your outfit was a dead give away. Why else would you wear that? Given that they grant you your powers from what I've noticed from the others. Its as if you want to ensure something." He further deduced.

"Wow...you read me like an opened book." Laren was taken aback by all this. Her shocked expression turned into a sad frown. "Now that you know I planned on using you. I guess this challenge is a fail for me huh?"

"More or less, yes." Nicholas responded with a small nod. Laren just let out a deep and heavy sigh after hearing this.

"Is there any chance for me to redeem myself?" She hoped. Nicholas just shook his head no.

"All my decisions are final. I'm sorry." The detective said a bit solemnly.

"I see. Well, time for us to wrap things up. No need to prolong what can't be changed. So, shall we?" Laren suggested now with a much more genuine smile.

"Alright." Nicholas agreed. He then looked up into the sky and gave a slight nod. Seconds later a beam of light came down on them causing their avatars to flicker. Both of them disappeared moments later.

Back in the real world now both Laren and Nicholas were already out of their pods and standing in-front of everybody. The room was silent for no one bothered to talk.

"Well, that date was quite unfortunate. Who knew Laren had it in her to plan something like that." Chris started in order to break the silence. "We already know the results so no need to wait any longer. You can get return to your team now." The host commanded her. Laren didn't say anything and just walked back and re-joined her team.

"Hey, no need to look down now. We understand what you were trying to do." Ginger comforted the girl. "Right." She looked towards Paris now but she was deep in thought. "Paris!"

"Oh, um, yeah." Paris replied but quickly went back to her thoughts.

"Thanks guys but I think I'll need to think about what I need to do for now." Laren said to them with a heavy look. "If you'll excuse me." She walked out of the room now.

"Good job, Paris. You lost us the opportunity for her to be on our side like you said!" Ginger scolded her now but was ignored. "Paris! Are you even listening? What has gotten over you?!"

"Oh, huh? N-nothing." Paris snapped out of her trance. "I was just thinking about my turn is all." She explained herself.

"Lucette. Its now your turn!" Chris announced now. The aforementioned soon walked up to the front.

"Yippee! Its finally my turn to take on Sherlock here on a date." Lucette said flirtatiously.

"Okay, Lucette. Time for you to choose the location." Chris reminded her as he took a small step to the side. Lucette quickly went over to the control panel and chose her location. Moments later an afternoon Parkside view was shown on the screen with a carriage waiting on the path. A large lake was shown next to it with a bridge connecting to the other side.

"A carriage ride date?" Chris questioned. "How boring."

"But a very romantic one as well!" Lucette sighed dreamily.

"Ugh. Just start the date already and get it over with." The host commanded them now.

"Shall we be off?" Nicholas scoffed. "...Princess." He added with a more confronted tone.

"Ooooh. I like the sound of that." Lucette giggled. "And here I thought I should be the one trying to captivate you." She flirted some more. Nicholas though just gave her a serious look causing her to stop herself. "Yeah. Lets go." She walked on ahead and walked inside a pod. Nicholas followed suit and got inside a pod of his own.

(Confessional)

Lucette: The way Nicholas called me 'Princess' earlier was kinda off-putting. Along with that look he gave. Was he trying to imply he knows something? I sure hope he doesn't know about my past because I'd rather forget about it.

(End Confessional)

The scene now changed to Lucette sitting on a park bench on her own. She wore her challenge clothes for her date except without bringing her weapons. She just sat their waiting until the sound of a horse hooves' clapping along the ground caught her attention. Lucette was astonished to see Nicholas driving the carriage towards her

"Sorry if I made you wait. I figured it would be best for me to drive this thing personally." Nicholas said to her with a silver smile. Lucette was completely speechless. "If I may?" He held his hand out towards her.

"Umm. S-sure." Lucette held on to his hand was helped seated next to Nicholas.

"Hiya!" Nicholas whipped the reins and soon the carriage was now moving. "I hope you don't mind this being your date, Princess."

"N-no. Not at all." Lucette felt the situation to be unsettling now as he mentioned the word princess again.

"So where we headed, Princess?" Nicholas now asked with a slight grin.

"A-anywhere is good." Lucette answered. "Oh, and you can stop calling me princess now. Its getting quite uncomfortable the more you mention it." She insisted. The grin on Nicholas' face grew slightly bigger after hearing this.

"Why not? I thought you'd be well accustomed to this?" Nicholas interrogated her as he continued on driving.

"Accustomed? What do you mean by that?" Lucette was shocked to hear this from me.

"Pardon me for this, my liege, but, you are the missing daughter of the Quetzal royal court, are you not?" Nicholas pressed the matter even further. Lucette fell silent after hearing this one. Her head hanging low and her hair covering her eyes.

"...They don't care about me." She silently uttered. Tears started to stream down from the sides of her face. "They have six other children. They don't need me..." She added.

"What makes you say that, Princess?" The detective pressed her even further. "Surely your mother and father were-."

"And stop calling me that!" The young heiress raised her voice at him to cut him off. "If they did care about me then I wouldn't have been forced to run away all those years ago!" She yelled at him now. This caused Nicholas to stop the carriage. Light snivelling was soon heard from Lucette. "...All those years of mistreatment...I had enough of it...I just wanted to get away from it all..."

"So the rumours were true. You did run away due to abuse instead of being kidnapped your parents insisted. Well, that's all the proof I needed to hear." Nicholas said to her in a calm tone. Lucette just kept on snivelling. "You know, gathering intel on you was really easy. The moment the cameras laid their eyes on you a massive swing in events happened down on Interpol. Heck, your parents even went the extra mile to get you forcefully evicted from the show." A grim smile soon appeared on the detective's face. "You should really thank Chris why you are still here. He managed to defend your spot here on this show. But you'll want to kill him afterwards because of the trade-off."

"What trade-off?"

"That you'll be unwillingly handed back to your parents once you are eliminated." Nicholas answered. Lucette suddenly felt her whole world crumbling after hearing this.

"How do you know about all this stuff?" Lucette quietly asked.

"You could say I pulled a couple strings and used a few favours." Nicholas chuckled softly to himself. He soon jumped off the carriage. "Now that you know what's going on in the outside world. What do you plan on doing now to ensure yourself?" The detective now asked the saddened heiress.

No response came from Lucette for the reality set in-front of her was all she could think off.

"Well, there is that one option Chris laid out for you all during the first day but I highly doubt you'll take it given the risk it involves." Nicholas reminded her. No response came. "I guess we're done here." He soon walked off towards the opposite direction leaving Lucette on her own.

(Confessional)

Lucette: He's right. If I want to make it further then I have to do it. I just don't know if I can do it on my own. I don't want anyone to lose their chance because of me either! Why is this decision so hard to make? I just hope this day doesn't end with our team losing.

Nicholas: Well, I got the evidence and confession I needed to hear. Only thing left to do now is to get someone on the case. Truth be told jeopardizing her team's chances on winning wasn't my intention. It was the only way I see fit for her to talk. The reason her parents gave on why she disappeared was sketchy to begin with, I just needed her testimony to prove it. Oh well, nothing much I can do now.

(End Confessional)

Both Lucette and Nicholas are now outside their pods and have re-joined their separate groups. Awkward silence filled the room yet again as they awaited for Chris to speak.

"Hmm. It seems the cat is finally out of the bag with this one!" Chris exclaimed with a grim looking smile. "Lucette's little secret about being royalty is now out with this one." He laughed.

"How come you never told me about this?" Skell complained. "Isn't it my job as host to know everything about these guys as well?"

"That's because you'll be more of a nuisance if I did." Chris spat back at him. Skell was about to say something back but was interrupted when Chris waved him off. "Nope. I don't want to here it. My point will be proven during the next challenge anyways." He said dismissively.

"Hmph. Whatever." Skell crossed his arms at him.

"Anyways, time to see the results! Even though it was a fail to begin with." Chris silently muttered the last sentence. "Nicholas. Was the date successful or not?" He asked the detective now.

"I know you like to showboat but this getting too repetitive already even for someone like you." Nicholas deadpanned. Chris didn't find this amusing at all. "*sigh* Fine. It was a failed date. Happy?"

"Thank you, Nicholas! And with that, the scores remained unchanged with the lead still being on the dawn team!" The host announced. Nicholas just rolled his eyes. "Now, its time for the second, and hopefully not the least, date for our challenge! Paris. Come on up!" He now called over the next contestant.

Paris walked on over to the front without saying anything. Her eyes were dead set on Nicholas. The detective returned the favour with a spiteful glare of his own. Heated tension was boiling up between the two as Paris stood on Chris' right side.

"Wow. And I thought things were supposed to get heated after the date." Chris laughed at his own joke. The two just ignored him though and just kept their eyes still locked on to each other as if they were waiting for the other to make a move.

"Paris was it? I've heard a lot of interesting stories about you." The detective extended a hand towards her. "They even say you're quite the dancer."

"Thanks. I hope those stories aren't just baseless rumours." The dancer shook hands with him. "Some of them tend to get a bit naughty."

"Don't worry. I have trustworthy sources." Nicholas replied with small smile.

"Hmm. Glad to know you two are getting along quite nicely." Chris injected himself in-between. "Now Paris. Please choose the location of your date." He gestured for her to move towards the control panel.

"Will do." The dancer nodded. "If you'll excuse me." She took a small step back and walked towards the panel. After a short moment she soon chose her location. The facade of a large, pillared, mausoleum styled building was shown on screen with steps leading up to the entrance. A large sign with the words national museum was engraved on it.

"Quite the exquisite location for a first date. Museums are great places to honour a dead man's work." The detective said coldly. "Especially those who've been murdered for their work." He spitefully added.

"A sad fate really but there's no need to wallow on past crimes." Paris countered. "Anyways, shall we be off? I'd like to get that easy win for my team."

"Lets." Nicholas nodded and walked on towards his pod. Paris did the same and entered hers.

"Umm, am I missing something? What's gotten into Nicholas all of a sudden?" Skell looked confused for he didn't know what was going on. Chris just laughed at his co-host.

"Its best you don't know yet." Chris answered him. The co-host just let out a sigh.

(Confessional)

Paris: Nicholas. That detective sure is a lot craftier based on what I've seen. Surely though someone like him has his limits when it comes to acquiring info. If push comes to shove then I could always talk my way out of it like last time. But just in case I might bring something for this date. The question is what though?

(End Confessional)

The scene now shifted to inside the museum. The room showed was filled with different types of paintings and sculptures all made from different points in history.

Inside of one of the gallery rooms was Nicholas is was shown to be standing on his own looking at a painting hanged on the wall in-front of him. The painting he was viewing depicted a battle being fought. Men in blue coats aimed their rifles at the opposition down the hill as they held their flag high. The piece was titled "Civil War" for it was engraved on gold plate attached to the bottom part of the frame. Moments later the sound of heels tapping towards him started to echo throughout the room but he didn't let it bother him as he continued on to examine the painting

"I see you like that painting." A soft female voice said from behind him. The camera turning around showed Paris wearing a simple white dress with red streaks on the hem of the skirt. "Fighting in a war looks quite dreadful."

"At least these men died with honour. Some men these days meet death without even knowing it. Noble men at that. And that is where I draw the line. I capture those who are convicted of such acts and permanently remove them from the streets." Nicholas monologued. "No compassion. No sympathy. Just the law."

"Quite the riveting tale but surely as detective of your calibre can understand that these men had it coming for them. I mean why else were these men killed if they didn't deserve it? Some men just need to learn how far they can push someone." Paris said the last sentence with a bit of spite. She then started to chuckle softly. "I merely jest. I'm not that psychotic." She grinned.

"Yes. Yes. I'm sure you always tell that to yourself at night." The former turned his head slightly around to face the latter. "I know you did it."

Paris scoffed, "Did what?"

"Don't play games with me. You know what I'm talking about." Nicholas fully faced her now. He gave the dancer a piercing glare as well.

"That case already went cold and the lead investigators already cleared out my name. So their is no longer the need to go blindly accusing me now." Paris said with a devious looking grin. "Now, shall we be off to enjoy some art?"

"No can do Paris for you see I already solved this case." The detective responded with a serious look. "Truth be told it wasn't that hard to crack." He boasted now.

"Really now? Fine. So tell me, detective, how did your investigations lead its way to me?" The dancer challenged him now. A notable grin soon formed on Nicholas' face.

"Easy. You were diagnosed for having rare psychological disorder known as pathological jealousy or most widely known as Othello syndrome. A rare disorder where someone would act irrationally in the face of jealousy or inadequacy. Next is that your fiancé had an affair with another woman in which triggered your disorder thus giving you a motive. And lastly, only you had access to your house since everyone else was gone aside from your fiancé." Nicholas finished his deductions. "Need I say more?"

"Really? I see many flaws in that argument of yours mainly because I have two solid alibies in which counters you completely." Paris scowled. "First off, my psychiatrist already gave me the thumbs up with papers to prove it. And secondly, I was at my recital during the murder. How do you think I could have done both then if I were indeed the killer?" She argued back. Nicholas forced out a chuckle.

"Simple. The first case being that you showed good conduct since you had no stimuli thus discharging you early with positive results. As for the second case, it was quite easy to tell if you know what you are looking at. You had hired someone to be your stand in for the recital. Simple as that." Nicholas rebutted.

"Really now? How can you even assume as much? Surely such accusations needs a lot of information and evidence to back it all up." Paris laughed at him now. Nicholas just scoffed at her.

"The only evidence I need is the alibies you so cockily presented. The first one is already a written document while the second one, well, you'll just have to check the reviews on that recital of yours. A lot of them say you suddenly got sloppier in your dance." The detective explained to her. "Oh, and another thing. You hired a secretary who's credentials needing to match you appearance wise days before the murder. If that doesn't raise any suspicions then I don't know what would."

The detective soon slowly walked up to her and stood by her side. He gave the dancer now an ominous looking stare as he spoke up.

"I suggest you owe up to your crimes. Otherwise..." He took a dramatic pause. "I'll just have to drag you out of here with me before the day ends." He chuckled softly. "And I won't guarantee that you'll be walking." Nicholas left Paris alone now.

Paris just standing there on her own was just glaring at the painting in-front of her. Her hands clutched and teeth gritted. As she listened to Nicholas' foot steps receeding behind her, something inside her finaly snapped for the face she gave suddenly turned from anger to something plain and psychotic. She soon started to meniacly laughed to herself with the volume slowly rising.

Nicholas, who was already by the doorway, stopped for a moment before continuing to walk on out. The sound of the dancer's demented laughter started echoing through the halls as the camera watched the detective slowly walk down the hall.

(Confessional)

Paris: Fool of a detective think he can take me in? Oh how loathsome can he be. He can't take me yet for I'm sure that host won't allow given his ways. Though I might get a similar outcome like that pathetic little princess but unlike her I actually have the skills necessary to get me far.

(End confessional)

Both Paris and Nicholas are back in the real world and were glaring back at each other. The room was silent for everyone was watching both of them with horrified looks directed at the former. Chris, who was standing between them, had a twisted grin on his face while Skell was terrified from what he had witnessed.

"I know you took in Duncan during the first season even though he was an ex-convict but at least he was just delinquent. This is a murderer for crying out loud!" Skell rambled to his partner. Chris though acted as though he didn't hear him. "Chris? Are you even listening?!"

"Well, that was a great reveal. Not only are we harbouring a princess, we also have a murderer in the same room! I wonder how much drama can boil from this?" The host gave everyone his trademark smile. "Any thoughts on this, Skell?"

"My god. You've completely lost it." Skell exhaled sharply. Chris was just chuckling to himself now.

"Have I?" Chris just started chuckling some more. He then looked towards Nicholas. "Anyways, I'll hand Paris in once she's eliminated. How does that sound to you?" He asked the detective.

"It'll do. Saves me on bullets." Nicholas deadpanned.

"You're that confident that I won't end up winning this?" Paris scowled at the detective.

"Given that revelation, I doubt you'll stay for long." Nicholas taunted her. Paris let out a low growl.

"Hmm. Glad to see someone will be waiting for you once this is all over!" Chris smiled. "Anyways, time for you to go back to your team. If they'll still accept you that is." He sneered. The dancer just walked on away in a huff.

"H-hey, Paris." Ginger greeted her. "Sad to see your date didn't go so well hehe..." Her voice was meek and trembled. She took in a heavy gulp.

"You still trust me, right?" Paris asked her in a soft voice. Ginger felt hard pressed for an answer.

"Of course I do!" Ginger assured her. "We're still in this together, right?"

"Glad to know." Paris gave her a small smile. "I'll be counting on you." She patted Ginger on the shoulder and exited the building. "Oh yeah, keep quiet about it with the others, alright?" She said before leaving.

"Hmm. How dramatic. Anyways, time for the next round!" Chris exclaimed. "Phoebe. Its now your turn!"

"Really? I give up." Skell breathed out deeply. "Let's get this show on the road..."

The doll faced girl soon walked up to the front to join the three of them.

"Phoebe. Its quite the honour to be working with you again." Nicholas greeted her with soft and gentle voice. "Its been a while."

"Th-thank you." She meekly responded. "E-excuse me for a moment."

Nicholas stepped to the side to let Phoebe walk on through and towards the control panel. She slowly scanned through all the locations with lots of hesitations. After a short while she soon made her choice. A cute and bright looking café was now shown on the monitor with a single windowed door.

"I-I hope you don't mind some tea." Phoebe squeaked.

"On the contrary, it'll be my pleasure." Nicholas said with a small smile. "Shall I walk you to your pod?"

Phoebe shook her head, "N-no need. I can do it on my own." She soon went her own pod. Nicholas just nodded did the same. Both of them are now safely inside their pods.

"Okay, tell me this then. What's the relationship between these two?" Skell asked his partner.

"Nothing special. They were both part of a similar season I hosted a year ago." Chris plainly answered. "The cast was a lot bigger as well so you'll be surprised on how far Phoebe had gotten." He added.

"So she's a veteran huh? Good to know."

"Kazuo and Alysson as well but I didn't care much for their season. A new guy was the one who hosted it with Blaineley being the co-host." Chris explained. "Valnoir I think was the guy's name was?" He tried to recall. "If you think I'm sadistic, you should have seen what he did with his season." He chuckled softly.

"Why does it feel like you're trying to one up him?" Skell asked. Chris didn't say anything but gave him a coy smile. The co-host just side.

(Confessional)

Phoebe: O-okay. Time for me to do well in this challenge! I haven't been on a date before ever since...n-never mind. I-I just hope things go well this time...The-the challenge I mean!

(End Confessional)

Nicholas was now shown by the café's front door step. He peaked inside the window to see Phoebe the only one their waiting for him on a clothed table. A simple, small flower vase served as the table's center piece. The latter opted to where her normal clothing for her date as well. With everything well in place, Nicholas gently opened up the door causing a bell to ring.

"Welcome, master." A girl wearing a maid's uniform greeted the detective with a slight bow. "May I take that coat for you?"

"Yes, sure." Nicholas nodded in agreement as he removed his trench coat to reveal the white undershirt underneath. He gave the trench coat to the maid in which she hung it on a near by coat rack.

"This way, master." The girl smiled at him as she guided Nicholas with her right arm towards Phoebe.

"Thank you." Nicholas nodded before walking towards the doll faced girl. "Greetings." He pulled his seat and sat across Phoebe now.

"G-good day to you as well." Phoebe returned the gesture. Nicholas just gave her a soft smile and leaned back in to his seat.

"Its been a while, hasn't it?" The detective asked her now. "A year or more perhaps?"

"Y-yeah. I guess." Phoebe meekly answered. "D-do you still visit there though?"

"Not regularly but I still do. Chris after all gave us unlimited access." Nicholas answered. The sound of foot steps approaching them soon caught their attention.

"Good afternoon, masters." A different maid approached them and bowed. "What will be your orders? May we start of with the drinks?" She asked them as she pulled out a notepad and pen.

"Y-yes. Umm..." Phoebe gave Nicholas a quick glance.

"Go ahead. I'm fine with anything." Nicholas assured her.

"Some jasmine tea please." Phoebe now ordered. The main wrote it down.

"Okay. How about snacks?" The maid asked them now.

"S-some fruit biscuits if you have any." Phoebe added to her order. The maid just wrote it down as well.

"How about you, sir?" She asked Nicholas as well.

"Wheat crackers and caviar if its not too much to ask." Nicholas ordered.

"Most certainly." The maid smiled and wrote down his order. "I'll be back in a few minutes with your orders." She gave them a final bow and walked off.

With both of them alone once more, they resumed their conversation.

"You know, I find it odd about how much you've changed and yet nothing has changed around you." Nicholas said to her.

Phoebe just gave the detective a confused look. "What do you mean?"

"Well, from what I've noticed, you've been doing a great deal in sharing the weight of your team during challenges. If you can even call that sharing. And yet, people still hold your hand as if you were still that defenceless little girl from a year back." Nicholas explained. "Why is that?"

"I-I don't think you can even c-call it that. S-Savior does all the work. I barely even g-give him commands." Phoebe meekly argued. "Not even Violin..."

"Hmm. I see..." Nicholas trailed off. "I'm sure you'll get used to it." He assured her. "Well, that's all I wanted to say. Now, what else should we talk about? We still got a lot of time." The detective gave her a gentle smile.

"I-I don't know. I-I'm still not much for conversations." The doll faced girl meekly admitted.

Before Nicholas could say anything, the maid who took their orders soon returned to them with their tea and snacks. She held them up on a circular tray with one hand and was still able to walk gracefully towards them.

"Here you are. Sir. Madame. Fruit biscuits and wheat crackers with caviar." She served the two their snacks. Phoebe's was a couple pieces of two biscuits sandwiched together with cream and a strawberry jam centre. Nicholas was just simply a few wheat crackers smeared with caviar on each one.

"And your drinks." The maid now served them two tea cups with saucers underneath. She poured tea in each one and placed down the pot in-between them. "Enjoy." She smiled and bow before taking her leave.

"Jasmine tea huh?" Nicholas raised his saucer and drank his cup. He let out a satisfied breath before placing it down. "I would have assumed you'd be the type to order sweetened tea."

"I-I do. Its just that I order for this when I want to c-calm myself." Phoebe explained.

"Well, I'm glad you did. Sweetened tea is not my cup of tea." The detective chuckled softly before taking in another sip of his tea. "Since you're not the type to open up a conversation. Let me interrogate you for a bit. Remember though, anything you say or do will be used against you in the court of law. So you better be careful what you say to me, alright?" Nicholas said with a widened grin.

Phoebe just took in a nervous sip of her tea and didn't say anything.

"Let me start you off easy. Tell me about your..."

The two of them continued on conversing with one another between various topics. Both of them seemed to have had a great time, probably. Between Phoebe's nervous disposition and Nicholas' interrogative approaches, it was hard to keep up on how the flow of the date went. After a while their snacks had already been finished with both of them at their final cup of tea.

"I see. Interesting to know." Nicholas drank his final cup. He reached for the pot and poured but nothing came out. "Hmm. Seems like we're all out." He placed the pot back down.

"S-So what now?" Phoebe asked.

"Well, I guess that only means we're done." The former answered. He soon stood up from his seat. "It was wonderful doing some catching up with you. I'll see you on the outside." He now left Phoebe alone and walked towards the door. He picked up his coat and left causing the bell to ring out once more.

(Confessional)

Nicholas: Finally done with this challenge. I don't usually partake into these sorts of pleasantries so I wasn't too keen on doing this to begin with. For those who are asking, yes. I agree for the unsolved cases. Phoebe being here had nothing to do with it as well.

(End Confessional)

Both Nicholas and Phoebe are now outside their pods and was standing in-front of everyone. All of the contestants, except Leonard, were called back inside the building to witness the results. Alysson was there as well to join the hosts.

"Aww you girls are lucky to have went with a date with Nicholas!" Alysson pouted. "If he'd let I'd taken him out as well~" the trap purred with delight. All the girls thought otherwise.

"I can't say much for the guys who went with you." Nicholas said back to him.

"You're lucky you are way to irresistible for me to snap back at." Alysson bit his thumb nail. The detective just sighed.

Chris clapped his hands once to get their attention. "Okay! Enough with the flirting! Nicholas. Anything to comment about in your date?"

"It was quite pleasant actually. A decent change in pace unlike the other dates that came before. Everything was quite nice and I might even say I had a good enough time." Nicholas replied. Phoebe looked hopeful that she did a good job.

"Okay. So tell us now, was a Phoebe here a success for you?" Chris asked.

"Yeah. She did good. I'll give her the point for that one." Nicholas answered. "And if I'm not mistaken that makes the scores tied."

"That is indeed correct." The host confirmed. "You two seem to like getting ties huh?" He said jokingly. "Oh well, a tie breaker is in order to resolve this. And since the theme of today's challenge is dating. The tie breaker for this would be the one thing all dates end with. The final kiss good-bye." He grinned maliciously.

"A what?!" The detective was surprised to hear this.

"Ooooh. I like that~" The trap cooed.

Everyone in the room was taken by surprised and were taken aback from what the tie-breaker challenge was.

"Also, to make things interesting, you all can get to choose who to kiss from these two. So guys, don't be afraid to open up now." Chris laughed at them.

"Yeah. No. I'm not having that." Nicholas said dismissively.

"Meh. Not my style either." Alysson shrugged.

"Anyways, first one to do it wins the challenge for their team. So better decide on who to go before the other team beats you to it." Chris said to them. The teams soon started arguing with their own teammates.

"No thanks. I've already spent my time with Alysson so its no fun if I do it." Kazuo backed out. "And besides, I doubt Nicholas would agree to me." He joked.

"Yeah...I'm not putting my lips on any of them." Alice crossed her arms. "You guys will have to do it."

"After today's challenge I don't think I want to get near any of them." Lucette felt a bit down.

"I already embarrassed myself in-front of a camera so no thanks." Blake backed out.

"I-I'm not sure i-if I can bring m-myself to do it..." Phoebe stammered. "O-on the ch-cheek sure b-but not what Chris is s-suggesting." She blushed heavily.

"Well what now? I'm not doing it since I'm not even part of this!" Janet said to all of them.

The dusk team continued on to argue. Over by the dawn team's side, a similar thing is happening to them as well.

"Me? Kiss him? No way!" Paris said dismissively. "I'd rather kill him instead!" She growled. Her team was surprised to hear this.

"Woah. What happened between you and Nicholas?" Dylan looked confused. "Did something go wrong?" He questioned. Paris just gave him a sharp glare.

"Lets just say her date went bad, alright?" Ginger quickly intervened. "Lets just talk about the matter at hand." She returned the subject.

"How about Nathan? He already kissed Alysson before. Why not make him do it again?" Laren suggested.

"No way I'm doing that again!" Nathan protested.

Both teams just continued on to argue with each other.

"Hmm. No one seems to want to do it. Are you sure this is a good idea for a tie breaker?" Skell questioned Chris.

"Unless you can think of a better idea to suit the theme that is still underneath our rating then I'll be more than happy to hear." Chris said back to his partner. "And besides, they are just over thinking it. A simple kiss on the cheek and they won."

"Why didn't clarify that to them any sooner? We could have been done here by now!" Skell confronted him. Chris just shrugged with a wide grin as a response.

"Hey Nicholas. Who do you think is the lucky girl to kiss you?" Alysson flirted. "Will you agree if I had a go?" He giggled.

"No." Nicholas plainly answered.

"Aww. Aren't I cute enough for you?" The trap starred at him with puppy eyes.

"No. Now go away or else." The detective said dismissively.

"Fine, Mr. Kill joy." Alysson took a few steps back.

The two teams just continued on to argue about who should be the one taking on the tie breaker challenge. Continues bickering and name calling filled the room for a long while. After a long time waiting, someone finally snapped and stepped up.

"Ugh. Alright! I'll do it!" Ginger stepped up for her team. She incoherently grumbled something as she stomped towards the front.

"Ooooh~ It seems this fiery red head is your prize, Nicholas." Alysson purred as he watched Ginger approach.

"Shut up. I'm not here for the detective." Ginger faced Alysson with a serious look.

"W-what?" Alysson took a step back but was quickly pulled in by Ginger. She gave him a quick peck before stomping back off towards her team. Alysson was left stunned in the front.

"There. I did it! We won." Ginger growled at Chris. "God, I hate you guys..." She mumbled.

"Yeah. You won the tie breaker. Good job, Ginger!" Chris gave her a thumbs up. "Though a simple kiss on the cheek would have worked out as well but oh well." The host snickered. Ginger though just kept a hard glare on him. "Anyways, Diamond Dusk Wolves, I'll be seeing you all later tonight. You may all go now." He instructed them to leave.

All of the contestants soon started flocking towards the exit while some talked on the way out.

"Blake, I need you for a second." Lucette approached the prankster before they could move.

"What is it?" Blake asked with his head tilted.

"...I need to talk to you privately about something. Come find me later, alright?" Lucette pleaded.

"Um, sure." The latter agreed. The former just nodded and took off.

"Hey, Kazuo." Alice caught up to Kazuo and stopped him before he could exit. "We need to talk. Meet me here later tonight, alright?"

"Sure, Alice. Whatever you say." Kazuo agreed. He soon exited through the door.

"Oh and one more thing!" Alice stopped him once more. "Votre français a besoin de travail." She soon walked passed him now. Kazuo just stood their wondering now.

---

(Cabin 9: Tristan and Estwynn's. Two hours before elimination)

Inside the now vacated cabin was Blake and Lucette. The place still had the previous contestants' belongings as well as being left untouched.

"Hey, thanks for coming, Blake." Lucette said with a sad smile.

"No problem. Is there anything wrong though? What's with that sad look?" Blake asked with a worried sounding tone.

"N-nothing. I just need your help with..." Lucette paused and looked hesitant about what she's going to say next.

"Help with what?" The prankster looked confused. Lucette still didn't say anything. "Lucette?"

"...Help with the vote." She finally said. "I don't know who to choose and I need your opinion."

"Is that it? Why go all this way to make it private though?" Blake looked skeptical now.

"B-because umm to avoid us getting targeted." Lucette quickly said on the spot. "If they caught us being together they might assume we're in an alliance and possibly target us." She further explained.

"I see. Good point I guess." Blake shrugged. "Anyways, if you want my opinion, vote of Janet. She caused us to lose my point anyways. We could have avoided this if she didn't say anything." He pitched to her.

"Janet? I see. I'll agree to that." Lucette agreed. "Well, that is all. You should go now before the others find us."

"Okay. Well. See you later I guess." Blake walked off. The door was soon heard closing leaving Lucette alone. She soon walked out of the cabin as well.

(Confessional)

Lucette: *sigh* I can't bring Blake into this. I don't want him to lose his chance because of me. Well, looks like I'm doing this alone.

(End Confessional)

---

(Virtual world: Maze Outskirts. One hour before elimination)

Alice and Kazuo were shown sitting underneath a large tree. The former was sitting down on a low hanging branch looking longingly at the night sky with both legs swinging. The latter was just sitting at the bottom of the tree by it's roots and just reading his spell book.

"So how long do you plan on starring up at the sky? You're starting to look crazier then what you claim me to be." Kazuo started chuckling.

"Shut up. You don't understand." Alice said back coldly. "Nor care anyways."

"Of course I do! That's why I'm doing this." Kazuo flicks his fingers.

Alice soon started to hear something breaking beside her. Looking towards the tree she spotted her branch was on fire. Both her and the branch fell seconds later.

"Waah!" Alice fell from the branch and landed on top of Kazuo but on the place where it matters the most. The branch though landed safely next to them.

"Eep...I expected that to happen..." Kazuo groaned in pain.

"Fuck you...Kazuo..." Alice moaned.

"Anyways, now that I got your attention, who do we plan on voting for?" Kazuo now asked. He then suddenly stroked Alice's hair.

Alice quickly responded by quickly placing her dagger on Kazuo's throat. "Try that again. I dare you." She looked a bit flustered.

Kazuo started to laugh. "What if I decided to tell you I like you instead? Will you react the same or act all tsundere?"

Alice keeping a steady glare at him just gripped on to her dagger tightly. After a few daunting seconds she pulled her arm back and sheathed her blade.

"Whatever. Mudak." Alice pushed herself off of Kazuo. "We vote for the weakest link in our team. Easy as that."

"Weakest link? Who perhaps may that be?" Kazuo asked with small smile as he stood up as well.

"Are you daft? Lucette obviously! She hasn't shown not even an inch of her use, a0acts poorly in challenges and looks like she'd rather flirt with Blake!" Alice pitched to him. "And besides, she's the most expendable one here."

"Hmm. Interesting to note but, where did you get all this info from?" Kazuo questioned her.

Alice sighed, "The moon." She pointed her finger up in the sky.

"The moon huh?" Kazuo looked up. "Yeah. You're crazy. But I got no one else to vote for so deal." He soon grabbed his book from the ground patted away the dirt. "Now, if you don't mind me, I'll be doing some experiments." He walked off deeper into the forest.

Alice now alone just let out a deep breath and disappeared into the darkness.

(Confessional)

Alice: The hard part in being an alliance with that idiot is keeping him straight and dealing with his...weirdness. Being with him is no walk in the park so I wonder how that Alysson managed to deal with him for an entire season.

Kazuo: Hmm. Learning my spell book is good after all. I didn't know I can do a lot with the three spells I currently know. I've read a few more here but the writings won't glow whenever I try to use them. Maybe getting to merge unlocks them somehow.

(End Confessional)

---

(Chef's food tent. Thirty minutes before elimination)

Inside the food tent, Clint was shown to be holding a tray full of food. A plate with a slice of pork chop and rice with a glass full of water. As he looked around for a place to sit, he soon took notice of Phoebe sitting on her own at the back corner of the tent. Seeing no better option, he decided to sit next to her.

As Clint makes his way towards Phoebe, he soon saw Nicholas enter the tent. The detective suddenly went towards Phoebe and sat down across from her after a short talk. Both of them soon started having a conversation. Seeing this now, Clint felt a bit dissuaded but still pushed through with it.

Continuing to make his way towards them now, Clint accidentally hit one of the chairs causing it to clatter. The noise caught both Nicholas and Phoebe's attentions.

"Oh, h-hey Clint." Phoebe shyly greeted him. "Y-you looking for a p-place to sit? Y-you can sit w-with us if you want..." She suggested.

Seeing as though it was his intention to begin with, Clint nodded in response. He soon went behind Phoebe and sat on the chair beside her. He placed down his food immediately after.

"Nicholas. Th-this is Clint. He's the one I-I've been talking about." Phoebe introduced. Nicholas just gave Clint a quick look and nodded.

"Yes. I remember him from watching Alysson's date." The detective thought back. He then examined the boy further. "Its nice to personally meet you." He extended a hand forward. Clint just promptly shook it. "Anyways, back to the matter at hand. Are you sure you need my input for who to vote? For I'm most certain you wouldn't like what I have to say." Nicholas gave Phoebe a serious look. Clint was surprised to hear this. "Why didn't you just approach your team for this? Like Clint here."

"W-well, i-its just that I c-can't approach Kazuo, Alice, and Janet easily and Lucette and Blake are always busy together s-so I got no other options." Phoebe meekly explained herself. She then gave Clint a low glance but didn't say anything.

"Hmm. I see. Well, if I were to choose from your perspective I'd say I have two options to go by. The first being Janet since she did cause Blake to outburst resulting in the deduction of his point. And since Blake and Lucette are together like you said, she has more than likely two votes on her." Nicholas explained to her the first option. "And the second being Kazuo. Reason being is that he took of with Alysson along with his point. And if those three are together, I highly doubt he has a vote under him." He now explained the second.

"K-Kazuo or Janet? Hmm, I-I still don't know who to choose." Phoebe looked down for she still wasn't sure. "W-what do you think, Clint?"

Clint just gave her a shrug for he couldn't make up his mind as well.

"Or..." Nicholas suddenly added. This caught both of their attentions. "Or you can vote on how I see the game so far. Since I'm not part of this I know who is objectively the best one to vote off so far." He explained now.

"R-really? Who is it then?" Phoebe asked.

"Lucette. She's easily been a liability from her old team and can be said the same for this new one." Nicholas answered. "She's basically like you in our season. The only difference being is that she doesn't have a Cassie to protect her. And since her only close friend in Ginger is on the other team, its best you take her out now before they both reached merge. Otherwise she'll be as difficult to take out as you were." He thoroughly explained. "And we both know how long Cassie took to be taken out before we could get to you."

This left Phoebe and Clint with a lot of difficulty to decide now. The former though was feeling bothered by this the most. The PA system suddenly acting up disrupted them from their thoughts.

"Attention, everyone. The ceremony is about to commence. Dawn team, be sure to send in your votes by then. Special guests. Please see me in my office now." Chris' voice announced.

"Well, I guess that's our cue." Nicholas stood up from his seat. "I'll leave the choices for you to decide." He now left them.

(Confessional)

Phoebe: Kazuo, Janet, or Lucette. I-I hope Clint made the best choice in choosing.

(End Confessional)

---

(Elimination grounds: Diamond Dusk Wolves)

All the remaining contestants were gathered around the camp fire now. Nicholas and Alysson were standing in for both Chris and Skell. Both hosts were just watching them from the side of the contestants.

"Hey, Lucette. Are you okay?" Ginger whispered for she noticed Lucette fidgeting nervously on her seat.

"Huh? Y-yeah." The heiress stammered. Ginger was still left concerned for her.

"Diamond Dusk Wolves. Upon Chris' request, I'll be the one reading out the ones who are safe for tonight." Nicholas announced as he held out a piece of paper.

"And I'll be his lovely assistant for tonight." Alysson blew them all a kiss as he held out a plate of cookies on one hand. The cookies were all shaped like wolf heads. Alice just shivered on her seat at the sight.

"Well, now that you all know the process, its time we-"

"Wait!" Lucette interrupted cutting Nicholas off. "I need to say something..."

"Okay. Make it quick then for we don't have all night." The detective said back to her.

Lucette nodded and took in a deep breath. She soon faced Chris who was standing by her left.

"Chris. I want to take on the special challenge." She said to him now. A lot of the contestants gasped after hearing this.

"Are you fairly certain? You do know the consequences." The host gave her a grim smile. Lucette just nodded. "I see. Are you bringing someone with you?" Lucette shook her head no. "I see. Well, if that's the case then..." Chris walked towards the cookies and crushed it in his hands. "Lucette is deemed safe for now." He told Nicholas. The detective just nodded. "Skell. Bring her to my office."

"Sure thing. Lucette. Follow me." Skell motioned for her to go. Lucette nodded and was about to walk off when Ginger suddenly grabbed her arm.

"Ginger?" Lucette was surprised by this.

"I'm not letting you do this alone!" Ginger gave her a serious look. "Chris. I'm doing this with her."

"Ginger. What are you doing? You can't help her!" Paris scolded her as she stood up from her seat.

"I'm sorry, Paris. But you'll have to trust me on this one." Ginger said to her back. Both girls just stared at each other for a while before Paris gave in and sat back down.

The dancer scoffed, "Fine. You better have a good reason."

"Thanks." Ginger looked towards Chris now. "So Chris, what do you have to say?"

"Its fine with me but on one condition." Chris gave her a devious grin. "I get to choose the challenge."

"...Deal." Ginger agreed.

"I see. Skell. Take them both now to my office." Chris commanded his partner.

"Alright. You two. Follow me." Skell walked on ahead of them. Both them soon followed.

"You don't have to do this, Ginger." Lucette said with a sad tone.

"Shut up. Just be glad I'm helping you." Ginger responded. All three of them soon disappeared into the forest.

"Well, that was dramatic." Chris commented. "Nicholas. You may resume."

"Well *clears throat* Like Chris said, Lucette will be safe for tonight." Nicholas declared to them. "Now, time to read who are actually safe." He held out the paper. "Starting with Blake."

Alysson gently handed the prankster his cookie and winked.

"Uhh, thanks?"

"Next is Phoebe."

Alysson gave Phoebe her cookie and gave her a pat on the head.

"Next one is Clint."

"You want something sweet to go along with that cookie, senpai?" Alysson flirted while handing Clint his cookie. Clint just brushed him off.

"Next up is Alice."

Alysson dropped the cookie on Alice's hands.

"That's for earlier. Hmph." The trap pouted. Alice couldn't care any less.

"Kazuo. Janet. Both of you received votes for tonight but the one who is safe is...

.

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...Kazuo. Congratulations." Nicholas said to him now.

"What?! How is that possible? I didn't even do anything!" Janet complained.

"Yeah you did! You caused me to lose my point!" Blake argued back.

"How is that my fault? You're the one who lashed out!" Janet spat back at him. "Kazuo had it worst! He took of with Alysson and his score!" She argued while pointing at him.

Alysson walked towards Kazuo with a cookie in hand and leaned forward. "Want me to feed it to you, Maître?"

"Hmph. Just try me." Kazuo warned.

"I'd love to." Alysson giggled as he placed the cookie in his hand. The trap soon sucked his fingers clean before walking off.

"Janet. You've been voted out by your team. Any last words?" Nicholas gave her a cold stare.

"This is totally unfair! It isn't even my fault!" Janet glared at Blake once more. "I'll get you for this someday." She growled at him.

"Okay. That's enough. Chris. Take her away." The detective called over the host.

"Not my job really but meh. Come on Janet. I don't got all night." Chris pushed Janet towards the challenge building.

"Yeah, yeah. Just stop pushing." Janet went with Chris in a huff.

"Alright, everyone. You may all go back to your cabins." Nicholas told them

"You boys better be good now. Otherwise all the naughty ones will get a visit from me." Alysson winked at them.

All the remaining contestants left the elimination site and went on their separate ways. The camera soon zoomed in on the two stand-ins once everyone was gone.

"Well, that was an interesting day for us. Won't you agree, Nicholas?" Alysson smiled. "Especially since Lucette got saved from being voted off!"

"I still can't believe Chris had the audacity to bring us in for this." Nicholas crossed his arms.

"Hey, at least you got to meet cute girls. Including me!" The trap giggled.

"Stop trying to sell yourself. The people watching this already knows you to begin with." The detective sternly said back.

"That hasn't stopped me from getting offers. Hehe." Alysson mumbled with a cheeky grin. He then gave the camera another wink. "Anyways, lets get this outro over with. You start."

"*sigh* Fine." Nicholas drew in a deep breath to compose himself. "After today's events how will our contestants fair with some knowing now a little bit about their past?" He said to the camera.

"Will this be enough to instil doubt into their hearts and minds? Or will they just let it slide and move on like normal?" Alysson chimed in now.

"Will Ginger and Lucette be successful in their challenge?" Nicholas gave the audience a curious thought.

"Will Alice and Kazuo's partnership be affected knowing his past with me?" Alysson flipped his long silver hair with his hand.

"And what will Paris hope to achieve?" Nicholas glared at the camera. "Find out next time on Total..." The detective started.

"Drama..." The trap added in.

"Dungeon Hunters!" Both of them said in unison.

"Bye now!" Alysson cutely waved at the camera.

"Ugh." Nicholas groaned and shook his head.

---

(Votes)

Blake: I'm voting for Janet. She caused me to lose a point so its simple as that.

Lucette: I guess I'm voting for Janet. I wanted to talk to Blake about doing the challenge with me but I couldn't so this'll have to do.

Alice: I vote for Lucette. I trust the moon's guidance for this one. I just hope it works out well with Kazuo's

Kazuo: Trusting in the moon huh? Crazy thing I ever heard about but sounds interesting so I'll go along with it! I vote for Lucette

Janet: Hmph. After today's challenge dropping Kazuo won't be half bad. We could have avoided this if he didn't think about that butterfly effect of his and went to that trap. My vote goes to Kazuo.

Phoebe: Umm. After me and C-Clint talked about it, we d-decided on Lucette so my vote goes to her.

Clint: I vote for Lucette. I trust that detective's word on this seeing as though he knows the bigger picture than the rest of us.

---

Places:

18th: Estwynn Paratus. The Mech and Hero Enthusiast. Role: Fighter

17th: Derek Wright. The Dangerous Outcast. Role: Fighter

16th: Kali Dulal. The Folklore/Mythology Enthusiast. Role: Duelist

15th: Tristan Kell. The Mechanic. Role: Backrow

14th: Gelsey. The Smol Girl. Role: Support

13th: Janet Jordan. The Loner. Role: Tank

---

Author's Note: Well, this chapter was difficult to write. I had to be very careful in choosing my words for the first half of it. To give y'all a perspective on how much writing this took, it took up about 50 memo notes worth. Okay, enough ranting, time to...rant about why Janet lost...hmm. Anyways...

Janet. Originally she wasn't meant to be in this spot heck her whole team wasn't supposed to lose to begin with. The reason being for the sudden shift in ending was due to the ending with Ginger and Lucette. I needed to find a way to tie that in without sounding too forced but more on that later. The reason why I chose Janet to be the new place holder of this spot is because she was a bit underwhelming now compared to the others. Challenge wise she'll be doing okay but social wise? Yeah, that's where she dips. Overall, she made for a decent character to write for but wasn't really meant for merge even on the original plan.

Now, for Ginger and Lucette. Like from what y'all read they'll be taking on the bonus challenges I set during the first challenge. I first received Lucette's creator's PM about it a few months back saying I could do it at any point I want with whoever I want. To be honest I didn't since that would be hard to write in on its own not until Ginger's creator's PM saying she'll do it as well. So with this all in mind now, I found a great way for them to do the challenge together. By spurring up some drama with Lucette's team losing. So yeah, expect this bonus challenge to be up first before the next actual chapter.

Okay, now that this is done, I'd like to thank Aleister Bloodrive VII for this challenge idea. I took this idea on because it sounded like a great one mostly because I can reveal some things about each contestant. Though some didn't get the same treatment but that's mostly because I got nothing to exploit from them. This wasn't the original idea given because I gave it a few twists of my own. Also one more thing I wanted to mention is that the last challenge was an idea given by Scorpialin. I forgot to mention it last chapter so sorry about that. I mentioned about it in the reviews section but felt like I needed to mention it here as well.

Anyways, onto the question: Summoning. An art that only two contestants have fully grasped but yet still lacking. Normally an art in which a lot of training and sacrifices have to be made in order to get a hold off. How far is your OC willing to go in order to achieve the perfect creation?

Well, that is all. 'Till next time!