Total Drama Trainwreck Express!

by 1602jaw

A sequel to Total Drama Cruise, Chris has been renewed with a brand new season. With a insane star cast of old and new contestants. Chris will be bringing them on a journey throughout the multiverse in order to win the grand prize by competing every obstacles they will be encounter. Who will be the declare winner? Find out in this new season of Total Drama!

2. First day, First Pain

Sup guys, it's been too long since I updated this story. So I'm back, and bringing you some new content.

Anyways, enough time. Let's begin!

---

"Last time on Total Drama Trainwreck Express", Chris Mclean recap, "With a brand new season, we bring along the old cast and the new cast on this new voyage across the universe. Only this time, it's on a flying train! We got everything from a Fleet Admiral to space pirate to even a squirrel! We got every insane, out of this world competitor you can ever imagine! Now that the voyage is off, who will win the grand prize in this brand new season? And who will be the first to leave with their first live TV disappointment? Find out today in Total! Drama! Trainwreck Express!"

---

The sky was as blue as the sea. The clouds were everywhere, and the birds flew freely, before being struck by the train's frontal nose.

At the lounging area, it was a day filled with relaxing and getting used to the surroundings. Well, relaxing depending on the definition from each contestant.

For example, the group of guys consisting of Yamcha, Clobber, Lightning, Scott, Stan Smith, Steven, and Muscle man were both partying all out at the round table, with Muscle man drinking every last soda can that is available, all while the rest of them, mainly Yamcha, Lightning and Clobber, cheer for him.

"Take that losers! That's how much soft drink I can withstand", Muscle man proclaims, as he ram the can to his hard head, with his fellow boys praising him, "That just proves I'm gonna win this".

"Nuh uh!" Lightning said, "Sha-lightning got this! I got the muscle and the brain to sweep through this like another Football practice. Shabam!"

"Wow, couldn't tell by how much you boast about it loudly", Scott sarcastically pointed out.

"Amateurs", Stan Smith commented, "It's obvious I'm gonna be the winner".

"And why's that?" Muscle Man asked, sarcastically, "Is your chin the navigator?"

"I'm gonna ignore that verbally, abusive comment", Stan replied, "You see I'm gonna appoint myself as leader".

"Really?" Clobber is confused, "You don't seem like the type".

"Come on, it's pretty obvious. I have the charisma, the skill, the training, the discipline, the strength, and the charm. I can wing it".

"Your guys are wrong", Yamcha states, chiefly, "I'm clearly going to beat this reality show. Heck, I might even beat the first challenge".

"Ha! Alright then? What do you get that can make you get to the merge? Your hairline?" Muscle man laughs.

"Nah, I got something more than that. My amazing baseball skill, my charm, and the best of all", Yamcha said, "My Wolf Fang Fist!"

"Wolf Fang Fist?" Lightning asked, "You mean your Sha-fist can turn into a literal Sha-wolf?"

"Ummm no, that's not how it works-"

"Well whatever your fist can do, Sha-Lightning can do better!" Lightning state, raising his bisect up and showing off his fist, "Look at these clean, solid packs, Sha-baby! They are fresh out of the oven!"

He then proceeded to kiss his bisect.

"Heh, my bisect is more buff than yours", Yamcha claimed, pointing at him and then to himself, "I spend most of my time training".

"Training? More like Sha-draining. If you even call those bisect", Lightning mocks, laughing to himself, much to Yamcha's offense.

He pouted, all a while muttering, "Pff, as if he knows any better".

"Don't feel too bad, Yamcha", Puar said, floating and holding a tray of soda's, "I think your bisect is perfect the way it is".

"Yeah, don't feel too bad, champ", Stan told him, "You have a lot of potential".

"Really?"

"Nah, just messing with ya. You are not gonna win any sports with those muscles".

Stan laughs to himself, causing Yamcha to fall face on the table and groan with Puar patting him on the back for comfort.

000000000000000000000000000000

"Is it weird I'm literally taking offense from that", Yamcha asked, "From a green guy with emotional problems and a jock who keeps adding "Sha" in every sentence? I mean, I'm not really that petty of a guy to get tick off by him, but still, I'm kinda getting a bit too worked up by that. No matter. As long as I ace the first challenge, I'll be just fine. And hey, I might even score some fans afterwards. They got to be rooting for me right now after my introduction".

00000000000000000000000000000

"I'm not fond of the new guys around here", Scott confessed, "They are loud, crass, and really annoying to be around. Case in point, there's a big chance I may get eliminated this early round. Best option I have in sticking around is my wits. Luckily, I have someone else in mind that could make me go further into the game".

000000000000000000000000000000

While that's going on, other contestants were doing their own usual things to pass time.

Some were sitting down, either watching the TV or relaxing. Some even took to smoking, mostly Sakazuki and Logan the Wolverine.

Packard had already set up her radio set on the long, counter table on the right side of the carriages, where she is able to speak to those back at home, surprisingly, "Hey the connection is surprisingly good. Not perfect, but I can still talk to you. Now what's this whole thing about her husband marrying another lady?"

On the other side further to the table is Satsuki, seen sitting in a chair, drinking a cup of tea. Right next to her follows Brendan doing his usual drawing in his book.

Satsuki doesn't have much to do, other than observing what Brendan is doing. She wasn't the only one. Sat by side are Robyn and...Robin, aka Damian ( From now on, he'll be referred as Damian Wayne ), with Robin not paying too much attention as he's cleaning his katana. Swiping the blade with a cloth.

"This looks beautiful, Brendan", Robyn remarked to him, "It took you over several long days to finish a specific small detail?"

"Yep, I had to make sure everything came out right", Brendan replied, "Can't leave it look off, you know".

"Totally. I'm impressed. Wish I could draw as well as you do. Most of my drawing skills are a bit limited".

"I could help you practice one".

"Really?"

"Sure. I have enough time to help out a new friend", Brendan told her, "If there's one advice Aiden gave me is that anyone can draw with the right understanding and direction".

Robyn smiles from that idea, same with Brendan.

00000000000000000000000000000

"It's very nice to meet someone closely related to my home country", Brendan confesses, "It's a breath of fresh air from all the random characters I've encountered. Not to mention, I can finally make some friends who's around the same age as I am".

000000000000000000000000000000

"Do you like drawing?" Robyn asked, which Damian gave a slight shrug.

"I'm above average. Never draw a whole lot", Damian replied, "I prefer training, judging the problematic nature in the current political system, do more training, scouting, taking down scums, rinse and repeat".

"Oh….ummm, that's…that's nice?"

"I also watch a lot of cartoons".

"I watch cartoons!" Mabel sprung from the table, startling Damian for a bit, "Sorry for scaring ya. Just eating some chip crackers under the table for no obvious reason".

"I see".

"By the way, my name is Mabel", Mabel hold out her cheese cover hand, "But you can call me Mrs. Pine".

"Mabel is fine by me".

"Right! Right, totally got ya".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"So making new friends on the train is gonna be easy", Mabel confessed, "I'm already making one with Brendan and Robyn, but so far that Robin kid seems to pique my interest a little. Now I know you might be thinking. Mabel! Didn't you learn your lesson the last time and I said, yes I do! However, that doesn't stop me from becoming best friends toward any boys without being a total love weirder".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"So I was wondering if you-"

"Be my friend. Sure, I don't care".

"Whoa, really? I mean, that's cool with you then-"

"If you are talking about extending a relationship, I'm not interested".

"Totally! Relationships stink. I get ya", Mabel replied, "by the way, I like your sword. You kinda remind me of that Steam lad fella".

"Whatever".

"You don't know who's Steam lad, right?"

"No".

"Well let me tell you all about him".

The four of them are getting along, more so than Ryuko.

Speaking of, Matoi is sitting further next to the boy and next to Wendy who is chatting with Liko.

Ryuko is still a bit fixated over the Soul Stone she still has, while Wendy is talking about her homelife to Liko.

"Wow, it must be quite crowded", Liko remarked, "Having to stay in one small house with a huge family".

"Tell me about it", Wendy remarked, "That's why I always like going out and hanging out with my friends a whole lot. Having to avoid my family constant bickering over the last slap of meat is such a huge relief to me".

"Well, I'm sure they do care about your well being".

"Yeah, well enough they are not aware I'm even competing on this show".

"Oh, that's….that's interesting to hear?"

"By the way", Wendy asked, "Hope the cast isn't too much for you".

"Oh no, it's been fine", Liko replied, "I'm just not used to meeting people who are more….let me put this in a better term, feral?"

"Eh, you can say that pretty much for everyone. Especially us veterans", Wendy said, "Right Ryuko?"

"Huh", Ryuko replied, releasing the stone as it hung from her neck like a necklace, "Oh yeah, pretty much".

"Ummm are you okay, dude?" Wendy asked her, "Your not overly fixated over your rival sitting in the same room as we are, right?"

"Pfff no! Not really".

"Uh I'm not fully grasping the context behind this", Liko said.

"Yeah, something happened between her and Satsuki", Wendy told her, "Something, something, she killed someone".

"She didn't kill my Dad", Ryuko corrected her, "It was someone else. Some b*tch I know before".

Debbie enters the room, recording herself with her phone.

"What's up, my followers!" Debbie said, "Bringing you some fresh content as I'm here today, recording for you guys from across the multiverse".

"Umm actually, I think we are somewhere in the sky", Liko pointed out.

"Ugh, please do not interrupt", Debbie told her, turning the recording off, "Seriously,I am trying to gain more likes and followers so I can get myself more revenue and more publicity".

"Isn't being with a nature documentary family popular enough?" Wendy asked.

"I'm referring to my social media career here, but yeah I suppose that's also the reason for my increase in popularity", Debbie replied, then turning to Liko, "Speaking of, where's your Pokemon pals? I need them for a video".

"Oh, they're off somewhere, likely having fun with some of the animal companions on this train".

Lando entered the room, shaking the towel on his head and seemingly enjoying himself, "Phew, that steam room was just fine as hell. You guys gotta try it".

"Hey Lando, I'm curious", Wendy asked, "What were you doing between Cruise and this season?"

"Oh, good question", Lando began sitting down between the two as he decided to give them a bit of a long tale after his departure, "It's a long, crazy story, but I think you guys might enjoy it. Just don't tell that brat, Jose about it".

"Trust me. We are not that dumb to do so".

"Actually, I'm kinda curious as well", Liko said, "Since you guys did mention about getting caught up in some weird trouble involving giant alien creatures and bad guys".

"Hold on!" Debbie told him, setting up an audio recorder app and placing it on the table, "Okay, now you can proceed".

000000000000000000000000000000000

"It's really nice getting to know everyone on the train", Liko confessed, "So far, I've only interacted with some of the veterans like Wendy, Brendan, Ryuko, and Eddy. Hopefully I could get around learning everyone else".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

Despite everyone being cordial to one another, Ryuko has yet to socialize with everyone.

Senkets took notice, "You've been pretty silent. Mind telling me why?"

"It's nothing", Ryuko replied, "I'm just a little hung up, that's all. Knowing we have to experience hell again".

"Look at the bright side", Senkets said, "Everyone seems to be getting along just fine".

"Yeah, but I'm just worried about this whole thing", Ryuko told him, "I'm not sure what we may encounter, but I'm certain it ain't gonna be any pleasant".

"Don't let it get to your head. It's okay to be open minded, just don't let it consume you. Try interacting with any of the new guys here like Brendan, new friends or Liko".

"I love to, but what am I supposed to say?"

"Hey Ryuko, you've been pretty silent", Lando took notice, "Is everything altright?"

"Uhhh yeah, totally", Ryuko hid the Soul Stone back into her pocket, "Just-"

"Oh I get it", Lando replied, "A little nervous, aren't you? Well don't worry about it, kid. This is a brand new season with a brand new cast. It's okay to be a little shy with new faces".

"Your right about that".

"Of course, if it because of that girl, Satsuki then-"

"It's not any of that! I swear!"

"Hey, if you need any help in socializing", Mabel said to her, "Just come by me for help. I'll give you the best advice in the whole entire world".

"That's wonderful, but I'm pretty confident on how I present myself", Ryuko assures them, "Besides, I think I'm well acquainted enough to befriend anyone I see".

"Unless it's Lady Satsuki" Senkets mention, which bothers Ryuko.

"Will you shut up!"

Moving on, Zoro is seen sitting on one of the fancy couches cleaning his sword with a wet towel, all while Dust watches, seemingly admiring it, "You got a nice sword there. Did you make it yourself or got it from someone".

"Thanks for the compliment", Zoro replied, "Nice to see another fellow who's into swords".

"Well, I am a swordsman after all", Dust said, "Been training for my entire life".

"Sounds like a good opportunity to form an alliance with him", Fidget whispered.

"What?"

"Nothing", Fidget quickly responded, "Just a suggestion".

"By the way", Zoro remarked, taking notice of Dust sword, "I noticed your sword there seems to be emitting smoke. I'm guessing yours is more mystic".

"You are correct",The sword speaks, much to Zoro surprise, "Oops. Sorry I haven't introduced myself properly. I am Arah, one of the five blades of Elysium".

Zoro didn't respond, merely looking at his beer bottle and asked himself, "Wonder if I chugged a lot of liquor in my body".

"You got to excuse me for remaining silent, Dust", Arah said to him, "I was inactive throughout the introduction. Only observing".

"Eh, it's okay. Your not the only strange oddity on this train", Dust told him.

"Yeah, there's like a god", Fidget begins listing, "A guy who can create magma, a gem, a time traveler-".

"To be precise, time walker would be a better name", Paradox enter, eating an apple and reading a book,"Hmm, interesting. I'm quite shocked that this host fellow managed to pack an interesting collection of astronomy and science".

"Eh, guy owns an interdimensional train", Zoro replied, "Figure he has something like that".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Zoro seems like a nice guy", Dust remarked.

"Nice?" Fidget asked, "The guy who literally got drunk a lot quicker than a rabbit getting-"

"Okay, stop there. You're not making that analogy".

"I'm not sure about that guy. He seems like a complete doofus from the looks of it".

"Well, we share an interest in swordsmanship. Besides, you're the one that suggested an alliance".

"Yeah, that's before I noticed how many liquor bottles he drank! You didn't notice, but there's like fifteen bottles on the floor".

"Thought for sure they came from the Blue Goddess lady".

00000000000000000000000000000

Aqua, who was laying on the floor the entire time next to them slowly got up, "Oooooh, I need to pee really badly".

"Your okay, madam?" Paradox asked her, "For someone who's a healer and a former god, I expect you may be aware of the health issue".

"Nah, I know that kinda stuff", Aqua walked off, "Now move away!"

Aqua passes by Frollo, who was sitting between Emily who is having an interesting conversation with Alastor all the while Stocking tries to ignore it and Larfleeze crested his lantern.

"So yeah, Seras was a bit shocked that one of your friends from the hotel", Emily explained, "Sir Pentious, arrived at heaven unannounced".

"Interesting", Alastor asked, "And has he stirred up any trouble over there. What with him being all snake theme and stuff".

"Oh, no, not at all. He's doing splendid", Emily replied, "By the way I do want to apologize for what happened to your guys hotel. I should've try everything in my power to prevent it".

"Oh don't you worry about that", Alastor assures her, "It's not your fault for being unable to do anything with your stasis and power. Everyone has that issue, including me….interestingly enough".

"Right", Emily replied, "Anyways, I'm glad there's no ill feeling between each other".

"None at all".

"I promise you, sir. I'll try to make it up for your people down there. I totally swear of it".

"Hmmm, glad to hear", Alastor said, then continued speaking in a tone that is directly meant to be passively aggressively toward Stocking, which she heard and is now seething at him, "At least there's someone with an honest, but sworn obligation to make".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Hmph, there he goes again", Stocking remarked, "Doing his usual taunting to get a riled out of me. I wouldn't be shock if he try to f*ck that angel just out of spite".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, I'll be real I wasn't expecting Alastor, the Radio Demon to be here", Emily confesses, "Guess that's a bit of a shocker and a little awkward. Nonetheless, I'm still looking forward to bringing hope and compassion to everyone on this train. After hearing how awful the conditions here were, I had to come. To win the prize money and help rebuild the damage done by Adam, do the second option, and explore the outside world, since…I haven't really done that for a while now so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to do so".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Frollo sat there with a pouted position, with Larfleeze flies being an annoyance to him as all the judge could do was frown and watch a flat screen TV.

Filbert is casually walking by holding a bucket filled with tools when Frollo notices him.

"You there! Turtle man".

"Uhhh, it's Filbert", He corrected him.

"Whatever", Frollo requested, "Get rid of these flies. They irritate me".

"Uhhhhh…."

"Aren't you an intern around here? Move it!"

"O-okay, you don't have to be a bit pushy", Filbert pulls out a fly swapper and instead of swiping the flies away, he accidentally slaps Larfleeze back, causing the latter to feel it and tackle him.

As Filbert screams being torn into shred by Larfleeze, Frollo can only roll his eyes.

000000000000000000000000000

"I cannot endure through this", Frollo confesses, "Not long enough to go insane with these….these heathens, but enough to burn myself to get away from them!"

000000000000000000000000000

"Hey there", Scott walked by then sitting beside him, "New partner. How's it going? Enjoying some nice, TV quality to yourself?"

"I enjoy the more preacher type channels", Frollo then asked, "What do you want, rat?"

"Rat? Why, I'm offended", Scott sarcastically and passively replied, "I prefer swamp rats to be precise".

"Get on with it. I do not indulge myself into vermin like you. I'm more sophisticated than to speak with the likes of you".

"Fine", Scott explained, "I'm thinking you and I should team up. Help each other".

"And why should I do that?"

"Because we're an open target. I'm already bad news to some and your not giving off a good first impression. So here's the thing. I need someone like you to not vote me off and in return, I'll help you make it through the game".

"Please, you think one vote will be enough?"

"I'm just saying. It's best we do this, otherwise what other ideas you got besides mooching around and being all stank about the modern world tolerance".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I hate to admit", Frollo confesses, "As much as I hate working alongside him, I do need to know the inner workings of this game. I may be a recurring guest to that House of Rat, but I know nothing of how these reality shows work. Perhaps that Scott fellow could fill me in".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

Suddenly, their conversation is interrupted by Jinx entering the room with her very own rocket, "Hey guys! Look what I just made!"

"You made your very own rocket ship?" Scott asked.

"Uh huh", Jinx replied, "I was going to show it off to someone special in this room, but I figure I'll give you guys a first hand teaser of what it can do".

"Please, if you think I'll be interested in that contraption", Frollo told her, "You are mistaken".

"Time to get it started!" Jinx proceeds to pull the handle, which triggers the small rocket, causing her to fly all over the room with no direction or control.

Sometimes she bumps to the ground or ceiling, sometimes she almost directly hit a nearby contestant and other time…she does it all at once.

Elsewhere, Eddy is handing out his own homemade pins to Liko Pokemon, Fidget, Hyakkimaru, and Paur, which are meant to promote Eddy and Celebi business tactics.

The pin itself shows a grinning Eddy and Celebi face, crudely drawn with their names on them in yellow with a red background.

"There you go, little guy", Eddy place the pin on a curious Terapagos, "Your very own pin, making you a supporter to Eddy and Celebi brilliance!"

"Cele!" Celebi agrees.

"Wow, these are nice", Puar remarked, "You guys really made these on your own?"

"Yep. all in an attempt to promote my business venture", Eddy replied, "Gotta spread my success and let everyone know who's the best".

Hyakkimaru smells it, Terapagos and Hattrem seem to take a liking of it, Chomusuke plays with it like it's a yawn ball, but Fidget and Floragato weren't really fond of it.

"Yeah, if I want to be exploited for someone's personal campaign", Fidget said, proceeding to toss it away, which causes Eddy to panickingly run over and grab it, "I rather do it on my own terms".

"Meow, meow", Floragato tossed it too, only Eddy didn't have time to save it and broke during impact.

"Hey! I won last season and befriended a Pokemon", Eddy told them, "So show me some respect!"

"Befriending a mythical Pokemon like her doesn't really amount to me being impressed", Fidget told him, "It just shows me how much of an entitled idiot you are".

Eddy grunted at her, then noticed Hyakkimaru biting on one of his pins, which stunned him.

"Hey! Don't ruin my merchandise!" Eddy told him, snatching the pin away from him, then immediately being struck down by a Jinx rocket.

"Meow, meow, meow", Floragato remarked to Celebi, baffled as to why she even befriended or became his companion, to which she gave an awkward shrug.

000000000000000000000000000000

"You know, I thought of something", Eddy confessed, "Since I won last season, I deserve to be team captain here. I mean, I won fair and square. So it only seems right that I should be appointed as their new team captain".

0000000000000000000000000

Cutting to somewhere else as the chaos ensues with Jinx, Hades and Robotnik are having a conversation of their own.

"You can't get good help these days", Robotnik discussed, "I created the most genius inventions for the whole world to see, yet I have the worst helpers in existence!"

"Worst is a harsh word, but I'm not questioning it", Hades said, "Can't blame ya".

"I'm not joking", Robotnik explained, "Scratch and Grounder are a bunch of doofuses, Snively is a treacherous boob, Decoe and Bocoe are annoying to sit through, Orbot and Cubot are….second to the last two stupidity. And Agent Stone is….actually, I like him. Far better assistant than the others".

"Boy, that's quite a hectic group you have there", Hades told him, "I would've just gotten rid of them, you know".

"Yeah well, they're cheap to get. Even then, they always mess things up, which irritates me".

"Totally get ya", Hades replied, "I know how you feel. Pain and Panic. Not a bright duo. I keep giving them simple tasks like getting rid of Hercules and yet, they always keep messing things up for me!"

"I get ya", Robotnik remarked, "Although, ever considering hiring a replacement? I mean I figure since your the god of the Underworld, there has to be some competent moron down there".

"Yeah, I would try, but most of the time they either want more payment, better insurance, and oh yeah, want more power and attempt to overthrow me. It's not easy to rule the Underworld you know, just like it's not easy to take down one Hedgehog".

"Hey, that measly little Hedgehog is far harder to kill than your target. I can tell you that".

"Oh yeah? Well, Hercules could bare anything, no matter how much stuff I threw at him. I even tried throwing a green rock at him and it still didn't work".

000000000000000000000000000000000

"Alright, since I'm gonna be here for a while", Robotnik confessed, "I gotta make sure I make it to the top. By what you may ask? Well, I'm thinking of appointing myself as team captain! Show those fools who doubt the great intellect of Dr. Robotnik himself! Oh, that sounds like a good tagline. I should write this down".

00000000000000000000000000000000

Serling entered the room, being flabbergasted from all the racket that's been going on in this room, "What is even going on in here?"

"Crazy girl here invented a rocket ship", Scott replied, "I think she was bored or something".

"Not on my watch", Serling, without having any issue doing this, reaches his hand out and grabs Jinx.

Unfortunately, he didn't grab the rocket, which causes it to fly directly out of the room and into other rooms, which no doubt causes far more severe damages based off the crashing and shattering of many materials.

This of course, made Serling flinch and sigh, "Just what were you doing?"

"Giving it a test ride".

"You do realize your in a public area and someone might've gotten hurt right?"

"Uhhhh….I don't know".

Serling sigh again, "Listen madam, I would appreciate it if you tone down your excitement for the benefit of your contestant".

"But there's nothing much to do here. It's not fun if I don't create things and show it off to anyone".

00000000000000000000000000000000000

"Being on a train with no responsibility or concern of some high authority is a gold mine to me", Jinx confesses, "I seriously think this is the best thing I could've hope for. Finally, a huge vacation and day off from all the traumatic stuff I had to endure back at home. No more war, no more revolts, no more weird time travel businesses, just me and my inventions, and my totally sane brain of mine".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

At the passenger seating room ( Or the loser room, in short ), the contestant interaction continues here, as there are some conversing with one another and making new friends.

And since the seats are movable, it allows easy access to socialize in a group.

On the front right side, Mahiru can be seen taking some photos near the window with her camera.

Sitting with her is Ashe, Tiff, and Blue Pearl.

"Wow, I never heard of photographs before", Ashe said to her, "Are they really amazing?"

Mahiru nodded, "Well, I wouldn't say they are awesome or anything, but they are pretty unique. I've always liked taking photos of pretty much anything. I even attend a class that's all about that".

"That's neat", Ashe remarked, "Maybe someday I could learn how to use a camera like that".

"You could borrow it, but honestly there's more than taking pictures. You can edit them, but I prefer letting the original be its own".

"I'm more of a drawer person", Blue Pearl stated, "I like to draw".

"Good for you", Tiff replied, "I'm an artist myself, except when it comes to people exploiting my work".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"It's quite nice to interact with these people", Mahiru confesses, "I was a little bit anxious at first, but I get the feeling some of them felt the same way. Especially Ashe. Although, that does make sense when you're from a well where everything is quite medieval".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"By the way, we still need to figure out who's going to be the team captain", Tiff mentioned.

"Team captain?" Blue Pearl asked.

"I mean it's pretty obvious we need someone to lead us", Tiff replied, "Personally, I prefer we don't pick that Hades or Stan Smith guy. I get a King Dedede vibe from them, just by how loud, annoying, and egocentric they can be".

"I can totally get that", Ashe remarked, "I'm not one to judge, but Stan does seem a bit brash, based on his personality".

"Hey Mahiru, who do you think would be team captain?" Blue Pearl asked.

"Umm, I'm unsure".

"Come on, it's fun to think about", Tiff replied, "There's a lot of candidates here. Some bad, some….more bad….I don't think we have a lot of good options".

"Yeah, from the looks of it", Mahiru remarked, "I'm not really thrilled with some of the teammates here now you mention it".

"I'm sure we might get to know them better", Ashe assures them, "Hopefully…unless that's who they choses to be".

Cutting to the other side, Pirate Captain is revealing his many tales out in the sea with his band of crews from his world, speaking of them proudly and fondly.

All the while Wilykat, Rocky, and Nami listen.

"There I was with my crew", Pirate Captain recounted, "Terribly surrounded by British forces, nowhere to go or hide, besides a few cans and barrels. So you want to know how I get out of this mess?"

"Do tell us!" Wilykat begged, excitefully.

"Yeah, tell us", Rocky added, "Don't tell me, explosives?"

"Explosives indeed, my feline lad", Pirate Captain continued, "I strapped dozens of explosives under the ship and blew us out of there. We manage to escape unscathed with a lifetime of hams and stolen treasure".

"That's so cool", Wilykat remarked, with Rocky nodding.

"Splendid story", Rocky added, "You really need to use more in detail how you manage to pull that off".

"Oh, someday my friends. Someday. It's quite a tale I like to boast about because it's one that proves you could do anything that seems unethical, insane, and practically impossible".

"Totally", Wilykat said, "I'll keep that in mind".

Nami doesn't seem that at all impressed, regardless where she came from, "Wow, what a spectacular story you've made for yourself".

"Thank you. I did leave out the part involving a cannon ball almost striking my hat, but that's the least important detail in my story".

"And nobody die from that? The ship isn't damaged or anything?"

"Come on, don't be so critical", Rocky told her, "His ship was probably magical or something".

"How would you know that?"

"I don't know. Just a fun thought".

"Right", Nami switches from doubtful to being curious, "Say Pirate Captain, I'm curious. Whatever happened to the treasure you've stolen? Did you hide it in a specific spot? Keep it somewhere safe in a secure place?"

"Ummmm no, I actually use them to pay off my loan taxes", Pirate Captain replied, "What? Had to get these explosives somewhere, you know".

"Eh, whatever", Wilykat said, "I usually make sure to give away treasure or spend them on food or any essentials, really".

"For me, I'll go crazy with it", Rocky added, "My world is wild in its economy. Hope there's no huge crash in the future. That would suck".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I figure since he's a Pirate Captain", Nami said, "I might get to know him. Figure out where he hid the treasure and try getting there and steal it. Hey, I never claim I'm a nice girl around here. I just have some priority".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Just then, Filburt the intern barged into the room at the back. Tripping and falling, getting everyone's attention.

"Hey look, it's one of Chris' slaves", Rocky pointed out, jokingly, "How ya doing, turtle guy?"

Filburt slowly got up, explaining to all of them, "I came to inform you guys to head to the diner room".

"Why?" Nami asked.

"Good question", Filburt said, "I don't know".

---

Everyone heads to the main diner room, awaiting Chris Mclean's arrival.

Some were confused and curious what today's challenge will be, while others don't seem to care at this point.

Particularly Sanji as Zoro came by and pushed him, annoying him, "Hey, watch where your going".

Zoro shrugged.

"What? Not gonna bother apologizing to me!"

"Hey, I'm not the one being petty here".

Sanji groans in frustration over here, until Sakazuki arrives and tones everything down.

"Oh right, I forgot this behemoth is even here".

"Right, no kidding", Zoro remarked, "I barely see him even interact with anyone".

"Umm guys, let's not be judgemental here", Emily told the two, "I'm sure he's just shy and all. It's our first day being here".

"Move out of the way!" Robotnik stated, "Robotnik is here to lead you all!"

"Oh boy", Hades facepalm, "Already seeing some new competition".

"Ummm, since when are you declaring yourself as team captain?" Tiff asked.

"Since now, young girl", Robotnik replied, chiefly, "I believe it is my right to appoint myself as your rightful ruler-I mean, team captain".

"Yeah, I'm calling this a bluff. You can't just declare yourself as team captain".

"Oh yes I can be girly, what are you gonna do about it? Cry?"

"Alright, alright, let's break it up here", Stan cuts in, "Now it comes to my attention that this whole ordeal about leadership is something we all have been thinking about. So, therefore I save the trouble by appointing myself".

"Pfff as if", Robotnik said, "You don't even dress properly. I have style".

"Ha! The only style I'm wearing is something more patriotic than yours! Mustache man!"

"Call me mustache man again or I'll robotize you. Starting with your chin, Chin man".

"Sheesh, talk about a rocky relationship", Hades commented, nudging his arm near Alastor.

"Indeed", Alastor snicker, along with Hades.

"Ooooh, looks like it's gonna be a fight", Rocky remarks, "I wonder who's going to make it out on top?"

"There's going to be no fighting", Mahiru cuts in between the two, "We can't start off, fighting over leadership".

"Hmph, I say we should. So far, we haven't selected a team captain yet, so appointed myself to save the trouble", Stan stated.

"Ha, I figure you'll cheat your way through without effort", Robotnik told him, "At least I have the capability to lead. What do you have that isn't America this, America that, America everywhere!"

"You leave America alone!" Stan pulls out his pistol and aims it at him, "Only I can say that!"

"Listen, I don't want any of us to start off badly", Mahiru told the both of them, "I suggest maybe handling this in a more appropriate manner that doesn't involve arguing or name calling".

"I prefer the name calling option", Robotnik said, "I have a lot of good vocabulary".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"What's her deal?" Stan asked, "Cutting in like that and acting like she has the authority? Maybe she's in it for herself! That could be it, yeah. It makes sense now. She's trying to hide her intention and act like she's the sensible one. Well good thing I'm smart enough to catch onto it quicker".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Sheesh, no offense, but I feel pretty bad for your team going through that", Ryuko remarked to Mahiru.

"I know", Mahiru replied, "I hope yours fair better".

All of a sudden a trumpet is heard way across at the front. There, Lightning stood, blowing at an old and crack horn, which it sounds literally annoyed everyone.

"Bow down and prepare for our mighty team captain!" Lightning proclaims, "Give it up for...JOOOOOOSEEE!"

"Oh god, him", Ryuko facepalm. She and if not, all of them were unfortunately to bear witness as Jose entered the scene.

Jose was wearing his usual uniform, but with the addition of a black coat, wearing it like a cape. He also wears a white cap. Written on it is his name, bolded and in red.

"Greeting my loyal subjects!" Jose began, "You will all be calling me Lord Jose from then on! I'm quite disappointed to see only one hasn't arrived".

"Yeah, that would be Aqua", Ryuko replied, "The blue b*tch".

"Eh, not too surprising there", Megumin remarked.

"Shut up! Enemy! Do not interfere in our affair!" Jose shouted, then proceeded to snap his finger, signaling Lightning attention, "Slave! I'm hungry! Go get me something to eat!"

"Sha-right away! Jose!"

"That Lightning guy doesn't see anything wrong about this", Lando pointed out, "Right?"

"Eh, guy's not the brightest", Wendy shrugged, "Or Sha-brightest".

Lightning returns, holding what appears to be ham with cheese on it. Beneath the ham is chop up fish that sprinkle onto a steak.

He bowed down to him, lifting his hand up to reveal the dish to him, "Sha-here you go! Original meat dish made by Sha-me!"

Jose took one glance at it. He was not impressed. Scoffing it off at him, "Ugh, looks awful".

"You don't Sha-like it?" Lightning asked, very confused.

Jose then proceeded to get up and grabbed the dish, slamming it onto Lightning head, "Of course I don't like it! Go make me a new one!"

"Uhh yes Sha-sir!" Lightning ran off once again.

"Okay, I'm not gonna stand by this", Ryuko proceed to tell Jose off, "Hey dipsh*t! Stop acting like your our team captain!"

"Who dares speak to me in that tone?"

"Me and my loud, defiant mouth! You little sh*t", Ryuko pointed at him, "Your not our leader! And you can't just order us around because you have an IQ of 69 or wear a Burger King crown!"

"I don't know if you could hear me, but I can and I will!" Jose stated, "I have a brilliant mind and you don't!"

"I'm a little hesitant in using my sword on him you know", Damian said, then clarifying to Robyn, "Just a reminder".

Hattrem begins to get extremely annoyed by the fighting, which Liko tries to assure her, "Relax Hattrem. I know this feeling, but I'm sure they can settle this down".

"I don't think it's gonna be easy", Mabel remarked.

"Listen here you little sh*t", Ryuko told him, pointing at him, "It's very clear who's the leader here and that's me!"

"You?!"

"Wait, what?" Brendan asked, confusingly. Even Wendy is a bit of a puzzle.

"Uhh dude, what are you doing?" Wendy asked.

"Now hold on here", Eddy intervened, "I'm clearly the team captain here because I have experience".

"Oh boy, looks like the fame has gotten to him", Scott remarked to Frollo.

"Yeah right, I have experience too", Ryuko told him, "And guess what, my experience involves leading the team, which you were a part of!"

"Well….clearly it makes sense for someone to take over. Someone who's the winner here!"

"Silence! I'm the leader so I'm the team captain here!" Jose shouted at them.

"You three are pathetic", Satsuki remarks, "The both of you have no idea of what it means to be a leader".

"Oh shut up! I know what it means", Ryuko called her out, "I've been through it. Don't try to give me any advice on how not to be a f*cking, upstanding leader!"

"Hmph, As if any of my advice would give you the right boost", Satsuki replied, "Just know how that I found your fighting with that annoying boy to be pathetic and weak".

"Who are you calling annoying?!" Jose demanded.

"Ryuko, can we talk for a moment", Wendy pulled her away as her and Brendan decided to talk to her in private. "Dude, what are you doing? Are you trying to make yourself look terrible here?"

"I'm trying to make sure none of those a**hats become team captain", Ryuko replied.

"No offense, Ryuko", Brendan told her, "Aren't you going about this a bit misleading?"

"What?"

"I think what Brendan meant is", Wendy said, "I appreciate looking out for us, but this is different. So far, you're not really projecting yourself as a good team captain by getting into a fight with a little kid".

"They're right, you know", Senkets added.

Ryuko sighs, "Look, I'm not trying to be overly dominated in trying to reclaim that title. I'm just trying to make sure we don't lose every time they make a f*ck up and one of us goes home".

"We know that", Brendan said, "Just don't get too overly fixated like you did last time. We worry about that".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I guess they right", Ryuko confess, "I mean I am still having some problem controlling my anger, not helping that b*tch, the student president is here. I gotta remain cool and not let my guard down".

"You know this is a weird suggestion", Senkets replied, "And I'm not implying anything wrong with you, but ever considering getting yourself a stress toy?"

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Someone else entered the room. Aqua, coming out of a nap after she drank fifty five doses of boozes.

"Hey guys, what's going on here?" Aqua asked one of them, until she notice Megumin, "WHAT THE HELL! WHAT IS SHE DOING HERE?!"

"Oh, it's you", She replied with a deadpan delivery, as Aqua approached her.

"You...you...you here?! Not a figment of my imagination?"

"Uhhh yeah", Megumin replied, "What? You think our introduction was just a dream?"

"Damn it! I was hoping it was!"

"Too bad. If it was a dream, you would've been rich", Megumin told her, "So welcome to the unfortunate event of reality, you bare a** goddess".

"Don't you dare speak back at me!" Aqua shouted, "You may be competing alongside me, but guess what. I'm fully prepared for anything! And I'm also more experienced thanks to my long lasting tactic and skill on this show".

Ryuko: "Pff, ha!"

"Ryuko, your one to talk", Brendan said.

"Eh, at least I'm not sober".

Jinx whispers to Megumin, asking her, "You want me to throw some explosive at her? I could do it".

Megumin replied, "Hmmm...tempted..."

000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Aqua seems a lot more reckless and mean spirited compared to when she's in our world", Megumin confesses, "Guess the show really changed her...for the worst. Oh well, that really doesn't matter. She could whine, call me out, be bitter about me being new and less experienced. Whatever. My focus is winning this and having fun doing so. Besides, if she could make it this far, I could".

00000000000000000000000000000000000

"If I'm going to be honest, and this is totally not a lie by the way", Aqua confessed, "Megumin is terrible at performing any spells whatsoever. Literal. She sucks at it. I bet that once the challenge begins, her spell is going to backfire as Darkness can't control her orgasim".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"We're going to die", Packard sternly comments.

"Hey, it can't be that bad" Lando assures her, "A few fights doesn't put our entire team in danger….well, I hope not".

"You wanna hold some shred of optimism".

Chris Mclean entered the scene. With his grinned and his arms folded behind his back.

"Greetings everyone!" Chris announced, getting their attention, "I seem to notice some of you are adjusting well in your new surroundings".

"Oh yes, adjusted", Frollo sarcastically replied, "I'm so adjusted to sleeping with these heathens in the same room with me".

He look at Brendan.

"Except for you, of course".

"Awww he calls us heathens", Clobber said to Reg, thinking it to be a compliment without any hint of sarcasm, "Well isn't that kind of him".

"Good! Anyways, today is challenge time!" Chris continues, "We are going to begin with our first challenge today. Starting with our setting".

"Ummm yeah, about that", Hades asked, "Where exactly are we heading because based on your tone there I'm guessing it's something special, isn't it?"

"Good question, Hades", Chris explained, "It ain't Earth that for sure. I'll explain later once I drop you losers off".

"Wait, what do you mean by that last part?" Mahiru asked, feeling concern for that statement.

"Oh f*ck, don't tell me", Ryuko moaned.

Suddenly, the floor below them slid open, sending everyone falling out of the train, much to his joy.

"Oh man, I just love doing that. Can't wait for the fun to begin".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, usually I would bring my interns and order him or her to toss out the parachutes", Chris confessed, "But the problem is I'm on a budget cut. So fortunately, I dropped them near a lake".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

In the sky, everyone was falling down into the surface below.

Some were screaming and panicking. Others remain cool, trying to think of a way to avoid their death from a fall.

Larfleeze panicked so hard and screamed so hard, he realized something while still clenching onto his lantern, "Wait a second! I can still fly".

"Hey feral guy! How about you use that realization to SAVE US FROM THIS!" Lando shouted.

"This is not what I signed up fooooooor!" Liko screamed.

They fell and fell, until finally some of them managed to drop down into the pond. With a few strong enough to land on hard ground.

That being Sakazuki who uses his fist to break his landing. Emily gently flew down down a few contestants clinging onto her like Steven, Rocky, and Ashe. And as for Larfleeze, he uses his lantern to float himself down on the ground, resuming back to his hugging.

Yamcha landed hard into a crate, avoiding the lake and creating the second pose of his again in the cradle position.

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, not how I imagine my first day on a challenge would go", Mahiru confess, shivering herself from her drop into the pond,

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"That sadistic host almost killed me!" Frollo said, "What did he even expect from us? To spring out wings?"

0000000000000000000000

Later after their recovery from the fall and landing into the pond, they were all standing on the land that is unknown to them.

Around them is a vast, green field of grass. Hills surrounded the area, almost covering the distance that shows the forest and the mountains. There were some towns located around their corners, but are further away from them.

The towns themselves seem to resemble a medieval, German and Romania architect. And further away in the distance is a large, looming red castle.

In front of them is a singular, long tree. There are no leaves and branches. At the top is a jar filled with keys.

"Okay, this is new", Emily remarked, "Not any place on Earth that I could recognize".

"He did say it's not on Earth", Mahiru replied.

"Whatever it is", Steven said, "Did Chris really need to do that?"

"I don't know. It was kinda fun to go through that", Rocky replied.

"You are weird".

As they were recovering, Satsuki noticed Ryuko coming by near her, "Sloppy as usual, I see. For someone that has endured so much, can't even make it in the first challenge on time".

"Shut up!" Ryuko responded to her, "Just…shut up! It's not easy to recover from a fall in a lake! Also, how the hell are you this squeaky clean?"

"That's none of your business".

Ryuko growls at her, as Senkets try to calm her down, "Ryuko. Reminder. We don't want problems to arise from your anger issue". ".

Ryuko recalled that moment back on the show and what happened in her world so she finally let it go, sighing to herself, "Your right. Sorry about that".

"Good to hear".

However their calm moment is soon interrupted by Jose being disgusted with his costume being wet, as he shouted to his most loyal servant for assistance, "Eeeww! It's ruined! Lightning! Get over here!"

"Sha-Lightning is here!" Lightning arrived, "What do you need, little guy?"

Jose ripped a piece of his shirt off, much to Lightning shock as he gasped from his action.

"Gotta get this dirt off me", Jose said, beginning to clean himself, "This is not how I should present myself".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"Little guy can be rough to handle", Lightning confesses, "Sha-however, if I'm gonna ace this game, I'm gonna play the Sha-act. Make them seem like I'm being controlled, but in actuality I'm Sha-controlling them".

000000000000000000000000000000000000

Chris came by, announcing the country itself and today's challenge.

"Welcome to the nation of Avonnia!" Chris announced, "Located on a different planet in a different universe sector. This nation has everything from its lovely harvest cheese collection to their old medieval architecture to…whatever else it has".

"Oh, so it's like a European country", Mahiru remarked.

"Kinda like that, yeah", Chris explained, "One of their cultures involves their traditional game of lumber climbing. You guys see this thing? This will be your first challenge. The first part of this challenge is an old tradition of theirs. Taking it way back during its early days as a nation. In this, one contestant per contestant must climb to the top of this long timber. Whoever makes it at the top without falling will need to shove their hands into a jar of keys. One of the keys holds great importance for the next part and final part of this challenge. It's a key with my face on it. If one of you manages to find the right key, their team gains an advantage".

"Alright then, sweet!" Yamcha said, "So all we have to do is climb on this rope and those pegs, and make it to the top, right?"

"Yep, but there's a catch", Chris continues, "This isn't any ordinary tree. It's an artificial one, designed by me. Every time you start climbing, it triggers a trap. All of which varied. Be wary, these traps will certainly, certainly, CERTAINLY push you to fall. Reminder, if you fall you don't get to participate in the next round".

"Oh my, that does sound hard", Blue Pearl remarked.

"Tch, I see nothing wrong with that", Muscle man said, "I could literally beat this.

"Oh really then? So who wants to go first?"

"Let me try it guys! I can handle it", Yamcha told his team, cracking his fist, "I'm a proud martial artist. I can endure through anything".

"He's right you know", Puar confidently nodded.

"Hmmm, I say we let him go", Silver said to his fellow contestant, "It'll be fun to see what he could bring".

"Kinda doubt that", Zoro replied, "He just sounds like the hype guy, instead of being legit".

"Uhhh, I'm legit!" Yamcha claimed, "Like real legit. There's nothing wrong about someone boostering themselves".

"Yeah, so you better watch your mouth!" Puar shouted right in Zoro's face, much to his annoyance.

"Umm Yamcha, didn't you listen to what the host said", Mahiru said, "He said, be wary about traps. I think we should think this over as a team".

"Ha! No need to", Stan Smith states, "This fella here is willing to go. After all, he did state he's a proud martial artist".

"Yeah but-"

"I say let him".

"Don't worry guys", Yamcha assured them, "I can handle anything. I'm both skilled with running and climbing. This is gonna be easy".

"Really betting on that, huh?" Hades' comment.

Yamcha approaches the tree. He tried to grab the rope and proceed to move his foot up onto the bark. However, this led to him slipping down on the ground, much to his confusion.

He felt a slippery feeling when stepping on it. He got up, remaining confident again and trying once again to climb onto it. Only to lead to him falling back down again, still even more puzzling, "Hey? What gives?"

Chris chuckled, explaining it to him, "Oh yeah, forgot to mention. The tree is covered from top to bottom with grease. Meaning, you have to try your hardest to stick on it, otherwise you fall".

"That sounds extremely difficult", Tiff commented.

"I know, which is why I added it", Chris said, "Also, one more thing. Sidekicks are forbidden from participating. Just want to remind some of you. So if any of your contestants have an animal or whatever companion, now it's the best time to tell them to leave and return back to the train".

Some of Liko Pokemon were a bit disappointed and concerned for Liko's well being.

"Hey, don't worry guys. I'm sure this won't be that bad", Liko assures them, "I'll be fine".

"Uhhh yeah, I don't think climbing on a literal grease trap sounds like a good idea", Debbie said, "Especially since it does sound both gross and dangerous".

"Well, I guess you don't need me here", Dororo tells Hyakkimaru, "Good luck out here".

Hyakkimaru nodded.

"Oh, and you can take care of him please?" Dororo asked Emily, "He can be a bit violent, sometimes".

"Don't worry. You can count on me", Emily assures her.

"Ha! Doesn't matter. I can still work with it", Yamcha stated, as he grabbed onto the rope and landed his foot onto the tree bark. He started climbing, much to the encouragement from his team.

"Yeah Yamcha! Way to go! Keep moving to the top!" Muscle Man shouted, taking his shirt off and swinging it in the air, "Woohooo!"

0000000000000000000000000000

"From someone with past experience", Yamcha confessed, "I learn so much about keeping a good balance. I really do. I mean, it's not like I completely forget everything that I learn".

00000000000000000000000000

"Ok team! Listen up!" Jose explained, turning his attention to his team as he began to tell of his plans, "I'll be the one picking who goes next. So I don't want to hear any complaints! Got that?!"

"Hold on, we still haven't decided who's going to be our team captain", Brendan mentioned.

"Yeah, clearly it's up to us to decide", Robyn stated.

"And I'm making it easier for you all!" Jose shouted, "So shut up! I'm the leader!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa here", Donald Love intervened, "Listen, I appreciate a little guy like you wanting to declare oneself as team captain, but we all know who has more capability to be leader, and that's me".

"Pff, why should you be a leader?" Ryuko told him, "We barely know anything about you. I know who Satsuki is and she's a b*tch".

"I will not tolerate any of your insults, Matoi", Satsuki told her off.

"Listen you three", Donald Love explained, "If there's one thing you need to know about me is that I have a large background that dabbles in the inner workings of politics and trade. Trust me, I'm suited for this job".

"Yeah well that doesn't prove anything", Ryuko told him off, "I'm taking over as team captain because I'm sparing you guys from losing".

"Hey, don't forget about me you know", Eddy shouted, "I have the biggest record out of all you three. Therefore, I deserve to be crown leader".

"You are far from maturity" Satsuki told him, grabbing his ear much to his pain, "You think I'll be fine being led by two incompetent children?! Never!"

"Ow! Ow! Ow! You're hurting me!"

"Wow, we already getting off real good here", Chris remark.

"Oh no, this is terrible", Liko asked everyone, "Can someone stop this?"

"Everyone! Everyone! please" , Pirate Captain stepped in, "It's obvious some of you are too loud and picky on being chosen as team captain so I decree that I be appointed as your new leader if you don't mind".

"Oh f*ck off", Ryuko asked, "Another one?!"

"Hey, it's in my name".

"You idiots!" Frollo stepped in, "We are in the middle of a challenge here. If you want leadership, then I-"

"Frollo, Frollo", Scott pulled him over, "Let's…uhhh, talk about this".

The main group argue with each other while the rest watch on in confusion and annoyed.

"Sheesh, talk about fighting for supremacy", Wendy remarked to Brendan, Damian, and Robyn, "This isn't giving me any hope for the future".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I think I know where Ryuko is coming from", Brendan remarked, "We can't be led by someone like Jose or Eddy, no offense to him. At the same time, I do still think she's taking this a bit too far. I mean there's trying to win over the team and then there's desperation".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"What are you doing?" Frollo asked Scott, "Don't you see I'm trying to ensure we-"

"I know, I know, but listen", Scott explained, "In order to do this, we can't let our presence be exposed out in the open. We need to keep ourselves in a low profile".

"But-"

"But nothing! Trust me, it's the only way we can go through this".

"Ugh", Frollo replied, "Fine, but you better be right on that".

The other team, mostly Stan Smith, watches in amusement as all of them argue and their team looking on with disappointment and shame.

"Ha, look at them", Stan Smith pointed, "They still haven't figured out their own team captain. Amateurs".

"Umm excuse me, don't think you're trying to make yourself sound any better", Tiff pointed out, "You're not our team captain".

"Of course I am", Stan said, "I'm team leader".

"Umm, who appointed you as such?"

"Myself, of course".

"Ahem", Robotnik shove Tiff away, "I believe that title goes to me you blundering imbecile!"

"Yeah right", Stan remarked, mockingly, "As if anyone is going to follow a fat, bald, mustache guy who is likely to piss on the moon".

"I am very tempted to zap you into particles right now".

"Oh my gosh, you guys are being ridiculous", Hades cuts in, "Clearly it's a matter of preferences…I nominate myself as team captain! Who's with me?"

Stan Smith: " Nay".

Robotnik: "Double Nay".

"Oh dear lord", Mahiru facepalm, with the rest of the contestants not too thrilled by what's going on in front of them.

"Hey, if it makes you feel better", Emily assures them, "At least they….uhhh, motivated enough to participate".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, so not a good start", Emily remarked, "It looks like we already have some issues going on in our team. Luckily, I'm here to make sure no problem arises from this situation".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Guys, guys", Emily cuts in, "I get that all of you want to be team captain, but we can settle this a bit more professionally".

"Oh, back off missy", Stan told her off, "I am being professional, and that's a fact".

"Professional? Says the guy giving out insulting nicknames", Robotnik stated.

While everyone argued over leadership, Chris quickly put a stop to this by blowing through a whistle which got their attention.

"Okay, so I'm seeing some problems going on here", Chris said, "Which I am loving it, by the way! Keep it up!"

"Chris, some of them are fighting over leadership", Brendan pointed out, "Which is preventing us from partaking in your games".

"Yeah, it's creating some problems", Mahiru added, "Can you find any way to resolve this?"

"Yes, I agree", Pirate Captain said, "Like say, appoint one dashing fellow like myself as team captain without further issue".

Jose, Ryuko, Eddy, Donald Love, and Satsuki stare at him, which he quickly refutes.

"Just an option", Pirate Captain reminded, "Just an option".

"Hmmm", Chris thought this over, which gives him an interesting idea, "Alright, here's how this is gonna go".

"Finally", Mahiru said in relief.

"Whichever team wins based on the specific contestant leading it and action determines me would be declared team captain!"

"WHAT?!"

"And the loser…..well, it's up to you guys to decide".

"Ha! Looks like it's a competition on who's going to be the leader! Which is none of you!" Jose said right at their faces, resulting in Ryuko punching him in the guts causing him to collapse and groan.

00000000000000000000000000000000000

"Why am I not surprised?", Ryuko confessed, "I should've seen that coming!"

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ryuko, maybe you shouldn't compete", Brendan told Ryuko, "Remember what happened last time you got a little heated?"

"Yeah, I know", Ryuko replied, "Sorry. I just can't let those four take over from here".

"I don't really see anything wrong with….ummm, Pirate Captain?"

"Eh, it's more or less she doesn't like how much of a dweeb he is", Wendy said, "Classy outfit, but a bit cocky".

"I detest that!" Pirate Captain overheard them, "But yes, I do have fine attire that I am greatly proud of wearing".

"Hey Jose! Let me go first!" Lightning asked, "Sha-Lightning can handle anything with my Sha-brain!"

"If he even still has one", Scott sarcastically said.

Suddenly, they all heard a scream coming from the top of the tree. It was Yamcha, falling straight down to the ground. Face down into the dirt, all a while in the same death position.

All he can mutter is a painful sound, "Ow".

"Ooooooh, looks like our proud martial artist is out", Chris remarked, "Those who failed must return back to the train. Next one! Please!"

0000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, freak accident aside", Yamcha confessed, "I'm still strong. At least I didn't suffer any bruises or scratches. That has to count for something".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Alright Lightning", Jose said to him, "Since you volunteer first, get going!"

"Right on, little fellow!" Lightning promise, as he ran off to climb, all a while forgetting he just insulted his captain.

"Don't call me, little!"

"Great idea, send out the test subject", Damian sarcastically told him, "That should prove your worth".

"Hey! Lightning is just happily willing to participate. He's obviously doing something noble here. Something I'm assuming you don't know".

Damian grip clench, wanting to punch Jose in the face but was quickly stopped by Mabel.

"Whoa, easy there", Mabel told him, "I'm sure we all want to punch that jerk in the face. I mean if you want, I could totally do it for you".

"Can we not do that, please?" Robyn asked.

"What? I'm not trying to flirt with him or anything".

"I'm not referring to that", Robyn said, "I'm saying that we shouldn't get distracted by Jose".

"Oh….okay, I actually would've thought you were…" Mabel quickly dodge the awkwardness coming from this conversation, "you know what! Nevermind!"

0000000000000000000000000

"Sha-Lightning knows best", Lightning said, "He knows that being Sha-torment a lot, means you doing a Sha-good job. I don't see any problem of me being a Sha-victim of torture. I'm no Sha-victim. I'm a Sha-predator and a Sha-player. Lightning knows more about this Sha-game than anyone else".

000000000000000000000000000

Meanwhile from the other team, they have the opportunity to reach toward their new circumstance. Or in this case, those who want to be chosen.

"Okay team, looks like they up next", Stan said to his team, "I suggest we sent in our strongest or-"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa", Hades cuts in, "Whoa. Listen, I appreciate the idea of us moving along and making sure none of us head home in a sorrowful state, but that doesn't mean you should take CHARGE NOW!"

"Whoa there, steamy", Stan told him, "You misunderstood. I'm merely guiding them….which is to suggest I'll be totally picked as leader".

Hades scrambles for a bit and his flames light up, readying to strike him, but they are immediately stopped by Mahiru who just had enough.

"Alright, can we stop this?" Mahiru told them, "Please?"

"Uhhhh lady", Conker said, worryingly, "Maybe you should let the chin guy and obviously, doomsday god guy be. I don't think they are interested in hearing".

"We are in the middle of a challenge", Mahiru told them both, "Which means, we need to focus more on the game so none of us go home tonight. If you want to be team captain, either put that aside and focus on the game or try to participate as a team. None of us want to lose".

"Yeah, listen to her", Reg stated, "She clearly knows what she's doing".

Stan, being annoyingly understood, accepted her offer, "Fine. We'll put aside our fighting".

"Uhhh yep, totally cool", Hades replied, calming himself for a moment, "Totally cool with it. Your right. Shouldn't have lost my cool back there so let's get back to the game".

Mahiru smile in relief, knowing she finally get them to realize it which impresses some of her teammates.

"Wow, that was amazing", Emily remarked.

"Yeah, you actually manage to get your word across", Dust added.

"For a second there and to be frank", Megumin told her, "I was really concerned you were going to get fried by that Hades guy".

"Heh, don't worry about it", Mahiru assures them, "I'm totally okay. Let's just try to get through this, without any issue".

00000000000000000000000000000000

Mahiru inhales and exhales quickly, hugely relieved that it happened, "Oh god, oh god, oh god, I literally told off a literal god! I didn't think my words would get across to them, especially a Greek God!"

00000000000000000000000000000000

"Tch, typical Mahiru move" Stan confessed, "She's trying to act rational here, hoping she gets appointed team captain if we lose. Well, not on my watch we won't. The best way to be picked is being as loud and brash as possible. Sure, I could go with the other method and think logically, but who needs it when you're in a reality show".

000000000000000000000000

Cutting back to Lightning, he managed to climb a bit further away from where he could see the ground below.

He commented to himself, "Sha-woah! I'm really doing it. Sha-yeah! Sha-Lightning is going to beat th-!"

Before he could finish, a trap is triggered. An electrical pole came out and shocked him, electrocuting him until he eventually fell off and fell back to the ground. All burned up, with some flake of fire still on him.

"Oooooh burn!" Chris remarked, "Think his brain is still intact?'

"Lightning felt...Sha-wow!" Lightning said, feeling dizzy.

"Great, Lightning is out", Damian sarcastically said, then asked Jose, "What's our next strategy, candidate?"

Jose began to feel nervous, realizing now one of his more favorable followers has failed him, "Uhhh..."

0000000000000000000000000

"Darn, that idiot has failed me!" Jose confessed, "I was hoping that olaf would win me the favor from my team!"

00000000000000000000000000

"If you ask me", Ryuko said, "And this is a suggestion, but I do think we should all reconsider taking him in. Unless we lose, of course".

"Honestly, we weren't really considering it", Wilykat said.

"Hey! Quit talking!" Jose mockingly said to her, "If you want to be team captain so badly, why not go up there and prove yourself! Huh?! After all, it's all about the experience!"

"I don't need to prove myself. I already know I'm a better person than you are!" Ryuko said to him in his face.

"Chicken".

"What?"

"You're a chicken", Jose proceeded to tauntingly make chicken noises, which resulted in a fist being directly punched in his face, knocking him out, "Ow".

"I believe he does have a point there", Satsuki remarked,which flabbergasted Ryuko.

"Are you f*cking serious?" Ryuko asked.

"I'm not supporting him", Satsuki told her, "However, if you really want to be team captain, Matoi you better prove yourself right now. Using past experience is only a mere bonus".

"Are you kidding?! I don't need to do…uhhh….well".

"Ryuko, you don't need to listen to her", Brendan said.

"Yeah man, just listen to your heart", Wendy added, "I mean granted, we do really need to win. Not out of petty reason, just the fact I don't want to go home".

"You know what! Fine! I'll go climb up there and prove to you high, all mighty b*tch what it takes to be team captain!" Ryuko told Satsuki, "Show you who's not an elite!"

"I suppose it will be amusing to see how this will turn out", Satsuki asked her fellow contestant, "Isn't that right?"

"Ummm, do we really need to agree with her?" Nami asked her fellow contestants, "I feel kinda wrong we should".

"I really don't care", Packard replied, reading her magazine.

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"You really shouldn't have listened to her", Senkets told Matoi.

"What? I gotta make sure I earn their trust", Ryuko stated, "And besides, it's all about winning our first challenge".

"Yeah well, taking up her words only enforces how much you care about the title".

"It does!...wait".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Ryuko began her climb up, while the Bloody Bastards decided next in their course of action.

"Okay, so who's going next?" Alastor asked, grinningly, "Any volunteers?"

"I suggest we send out our strongest player next", Stan proposed, "In order to speed things up, we gotta bring out the big guns".

"It's a bit risky don't you think?" Mahriu asked.

"No, no, please", Stan said, "It's totally not a risk. Unless of course, you have other better ideas than stand around and watch".

"Uhhh…"

"Hey, she has loads of better ideas that don't involve something as yours", Tiff told him off.

"Ummm Tiff".

"Oh really? Then let's hear it", Stan said, "Oh right, I can't because she's too busy thinking of herself than being practical in the game here".

"Okay, that's enough", Mahiru stated, "We'll go along with your idea and see how it works".

"Mahiru!" Tiff said loudly.

"Great to hear", Stan is delighted to hear from her, "Glad that you accept my offer".

"Mahiru, what are you doing?" Tiff asked, "Are you trying to be on his side?"

"I'm not agreeing to be on his side", Mahiru told her, "But we need to try out some ideas in order to win here".

"I….I guess your right", Tiff told her, "Still, I don't trust the guy".

000000000000000000000000000000

"I entrust Mahiru a lot because unlike them, she doesn't act like a spoiled, giant jerk all the time", Tiff said, "She clearly has the right mind set".

000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I just had a wonderful idea", Robotnik confessed, "What if instead of convincing everyone I'm worthy, I'll just show them why I'm worthy. In other words, I'm gonna invent something that will blow them away".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, so we're doing this", Rocky asked, "Who are we gonna send out? Me? Because I'm totally ready for anything".

"Eh, doesn't sound a whole lot of fun by the looks of it", Silver replied, "I'd rather sit this one out".

"Lazy", Tiff calls him out, to which he responds with a shrug.

"I say we sent out Steven here", Stan said, wrapping his arm around Steven, much to his surprise.

"What?"

"Think about it", Stan replied, "He's a wrestler. His body physics must be real durable to withstand any traps that get in his way.

"What makes you think I could".

"Duh, we believe in you".

"That doesn't make any sense".

Stan came right up close to his face, gritting his teeth, "I said we f*cking believe in you".

0000000000000000000000000000

"Okay so I don't know what to expect when I sign up for this", Steven confessed, "Like yeah, there's challenges, but I didn't think it'll go down to something like this. The advertisement clearly states " it's gonna be fun, well I don't see anything fun about it".

0000000000000000000000000000

Steven looks at the tree and upward, anxiously.

Emily came to him, giving him a reassurement, "Don't feel scared. No matter what happens, always believe in yourself".

"I believe in science".

"Oh…well, believe that as well".

"You sure he's gonna make it through?" Stocking asked, "Because I doubt he'll make it. He doesn't even look like he's going to make it through on his first date".

"Guys, let's be a bit more motivated", Emily told them, "He's clearly just a little nervous. I would be, if I'm competing".

000000000000000000000000000000

"For a guy who's into wrestling", Emily confesses, "He has a pretty interesting belief. Guess relying on logic and physics could work in your favor".

0000000000000000000000000000000

"Holy f*ck!" Ryuko remarked, who is still half way through, "How long is this tree, anyways?!"

"Keep it up", Senkets told her, "Looks like you're almost there".

"Yeah, only a few 30 inches high!"

"Hey!" Steven manages to climb right up close to her, trying to be a bit casual from all this, "You manage to make it this far?"

"What the? How the hell did you climb so fast?"

He shrugged, "I don't know. Science? By the way, the oil here tasted more like corn oil. Did you know that?"

"Yeah, I-I don't know there's much time for me to talk about this", Ryuko replied, "Especially since I'm trying to, you know, not fall and die because of Chris dumb games".

"Oh…..yeah, I guess your right", Steven replied, "This feels disorienting. Do you feel the same way?"

Before Steven could move forward, a trap triggered. It was a boot that sprung out and kicked him right at the upper chin of his, sending him flying off and screaming until he hit the ground.

"Awesome! Kinda expected it to be a kick to the crouch, but whatever", Chris shrugged, "Still fine by me".

"Dang, I totally felt bad for that guy", Ryuko remarked. Before she could continue, another trap is triggered, where a pepper spray spray into her eye. She exclaimed and began to lose balance, "Ah! My eyes!"

"Woah, don't lose your way, Ryuko! Try to-" Before Senkets tried to help, he too got spray in the eye as well, sending him off, "Ahhhh! Come on! Why me?!"

The lack of sight causes her to lose grip and fall to the ground.

"Edgy one is out", Chris commented, "I was hoping she would've made it but nope. Still funny, though".

"Screw you!" Ryuko retorted, slowly getting up and clenching her arm, as Brendan, Robyn, Liko, Lando, and Wendy came to her aid.

"Ryuko, are you alright?" Brendan asked, "Are you hurt?"

"Quick! Tell me what sweater I'm wearing?" Mabel added.

"Yeah, I'm fine", Ryuko assured them, "I'm just more pissed off by Chris' usual gimmicks".

"Ha! Looks like you lost!" Jose laughed, "That makes me the new captain!"

"Shut up! That doesn't prove anything!"

"Ryuko, you gotta calm down", Wendy told her, "As much as I don't like the little gremlin and your rival, I'm kinda more worried you're taking this a bit too far".

Brendan nodded, "Yeah, I'm worried about acting like yourself from last season".

Ryuko was going to say a word, until she reflected on his comments and came to a bit of a realization, "Huh….gosh, your right. Guess I almost lost it there. Sorry about that, guys".

"Hey, no problem", Brendan assures her, along with the others.

"Yeah dude, it's fine", Wendy added, "I'm just glad you're alright".

"No sweat. Just don't get too hot headed about it, alright?" Lando asked, to which Ryuko nodded.

While this was going on, Satsuki stood there, as if observing the whole thing.

000000000000000000000000

"It does seem apparent Ryuko still isn't as perfect as I thought she would be", Satsuki confesses, "Not that's an issue. It does make me wonder if she has enough strength to continue and enough stability to keep up".

0000000000000000000000000

"She got lots to think about", Damian remarked to Satsuki, "I would call her brash, but what do I know".

"You seem quite observant for someone your age", Satsuki said to him.

"I am what lurks in the dark after all. Only, I rarely do since I have school and what not".

"I see".

"You know the rule, Ryuko", Chris told her, "You lose, you return back to the train. You too Steven".

"Yeah, yeah, I know", Ryuko replied, then telling her friends, "Guys, make sure Jose doesn't do anything sh*tty while I'm gone. Same goes to Satsuki".

"Relax. We got this", Wendy assures her.

"What the hell, Steven?" Stan asked, dumbfounded by what just happened as Emily help Steven up, "You suppose to act strong and think straight!"

"Stan, give him a break", Mahiru told him off, "He almost fell to his death".

"Yeah well, if I were in his position", Stan replied, "I would've thought quickly and snatched back onto the tree".

"A tree made out of oil!"

"Corn oil", Steven muffle.

"Minor convenience!" Stan retorted.

"Don't worry, Steven", Emily assures him, as he takes him back to the train, "You going to be alright".

"I think I ate some grass", Steven mutters.

As this was going on, Hades watches all this transpire which gives him an idea.

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, I realize not being directly involved in a challenge may sent off mixed messages if I do just that", Hades confess, "Stan obviously got the wrong idea, Robotnik is doing something in the background, and here I am just silently watching, deducing that I should go with something a bit more subtle with my approach. Now don't worry, I'm not gonna cheat or break my promises. That doesn't mean I couldn't do things my way, appropriately fitting for this game".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ha! Looks like one down, three more to go", Jose stated, remarking that only three candidates are left to compete for leadership.

"Dude, shut up", Wendy told him.

"What? It just proves she doesn't have the right mind to be a good team captain like I am".

"I like to see you try you little jerk!" Wendy was ready to punch Jose, but was restrained by Brendan, Wilykat, and Lando. Jose shields himself in fear.

"Wendy, calm down. Remember?" Brendan asked.

"Kid, I'm not sure what your going to bring to the table", Wolverine asked Brendan, "She may have lost, but at least she proves a point".

"Grrr, quit you….you…hairy, claw thing!" Jose retorted, then proceeded to go with his next idea, "I'll show you how great a leader I am by choosing….uhhh, DJ!"

"WHAT?!" DJ exclaimed, shocked to hear his name be picked out.

00000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, this may seem a little cowardly of me", DJ confessed, "But I was literally hoping I didn't get to participate. I thought I would be spared from it. I literally beg!"

00000000000000000000000000000

"Oh no", DJ back away, waving his hands to show his refusal, "No, no, no, no, no, I am not going up there. Nu uh!"

"Come on dude, DJ is not in the mood yet", Wendy told Jose, "Can you pick someone else?"

"No! I said I chose him! And I'm sticking to it", Jose said, "We gotta go with someone strong and sturdy".

"Well I'm not participating! You can't make me!" DJ shouted, as he tried to run off.

Jose isn't having it, as he pointed and gestured to some of his teammates to pin him, "Get him, guys! He's wimping away!"

As DJ ran and ran, he was immediately caught and pin down by the Wolverine.

"Relax bud!" Wolverine told him, trying to restrain him, but DJ kept moving violently and trying to slip out, "This is nothing personal! You have to do this!"

"I don't want to! I don't want to!" DJ cried out.

"Look, I hate this more than you do, but if you don't, we lose!" Wolverine told him.

"But if I do that, I might get hurt! Or worse, get brain damage! I'm not risking that!"

"Jose, maybe he's not the right person", Robyn told him, "I mean, no offense to him or anything but look at him. He's literally panicking".

Much to his frustration, Jose reluctantly agreed to put a stop to this, "Fine! DJ, you can stop. It's over".

This seems to calm him down, "Really? I'm not going up there?"

"Yeah, yeah, I changed my mind", Jose said, as he approached him, face to face with a threatening tone, "But if we lose, you bet we are going to vote you off".

0000000000000000000000000000

"Better than that", DJ confessed, "There's no way I could survive from that. Granted, I survive a lot worse, but...I'm not taking any risk".

00000000000000000000000000000

"You!" Jose pointed at Larfleeze, clinging onto his lantern, "Orange one!"

"Don't touch me! IF you do, I'll rip your hair and tongue out!"

"...nevermind", Jose looked somewhere, "Uhhh, let's see….Jinx!"

"What's up?" Jinx asked, "What do you need, little man?"

"Don't call me little!" Jose told her, "I need you to go up there and reach the top without further problems! Got it?"

"No problem...only I got something cooler that could help us", She said, moving to the side to reveal something behind her, "Tada!"

The object itself is a custom rocket. Everything seems to be man made. It has no outside shell armor, no safety gears. Just two handles for two hands and three thrusters at the bottom. Most of it was made up of scraps from cans to clocks to even more cans.

As for the reaction, most were either amazed by it or were confused by it.

"Umm what the hell is that?" Wolverine asked her.

"It's..umm...a rocket!" Jinx replied, "Made from scratch...from my bare hands, in case any of you are curious".

"I AM!" Megumin shouted from the other team.

"Shut up! No one wants your opinion, enemy!" Jose shouted back, with Megumin giving him a tongue out tease.

"Whoa, you made this yourself?" Chris came by, impressed by Jinx's work, "Awesome, looks wicked".

"Thanks. It took me a whole night to finish it. I didn't even take a single break".

"Impressive to hear".

"Not impressive is the fact I barely got any sleep from her working", Wendy said.

"Yeah, it was hard to sleep through", Liko added.

"Anyways, gotta get it started then!" Jinx hopped on it, her foot pressed on the shuttle and her hands clinging onto the handles, as she pulled a string to get it started.

"Hey Chris, isn't this technically breaking the rule here?" Liko asked the host.

"Usually I would say so", Chris replied, "But I'm too curious to see where this goes".

The rocket then flew off up into the sky. Ascending up and up in the air, flying way passes above the challenge obstacle itself.

She screamed, not out of shock but pure amazement that it worked...until it eventually exploded in the air, much to the shock of everyone below.

As only the black smoke and shards flying out remain in the sky.

"Huh...didn't expect that to happen, but...cool", Chris commented.

00000000000000000000000000000

"Hmmm, probably should've done a test ride with it", Jinx said, "Then again, I never test out any of my inventions".

00000000000000000000000000000

On the train, Serling was in one of the boys' cabins. He was there in search for the many missing items and utensils, which led to him finding them in a pile.

They were all in drool, much to his disgust, as he picked one of them up, "Ugh, so that's what happened to them. Eww, it's going to take a lot of cleaning to get rid of these drools. And a lot of scrubbing on my part".

Just as if his day couldn't get more stressful for a robot, he heard a vague scream coming from outside. It seems to come from above, as he hears it more closely, "Hmmm strange, where is this screaming coming from? Am I hearing it right?"

Jinx crashes down into the pile, splattering and shambling everything into broken pieces, much to Serling dismay.

She popped up, unfazed by what just happened, as she turned and took notice of Serling, waving at him, "Oh, hi there mister robot".

Serling simply gave a sigh, knowing he has to do more than just cleaning.

---

"Looks like they are experimenting here", Tiff pointed.

"Okay, now this is the perfect time for anyone to volunteer", Mahiru asked, "Please".

Robotnik decides to step in and announces to his team, "Haha! Looks like it's my time to shine!"

"Ummm, what do you mean by that?" Dust asked.

"I mean that today you'll be witnessing my true genius being displayed here!" Robotnik revealed, "Introducing my new invention! The Robotic Hurl!"

He then reveals his invention. It seems to be an exaggerated trampoline with his face on it.

Some of the contestants were confused. Some were dumbfounded. And some were a bit disappointed.

"Well, what do you think?" Robotnik asked, "Fancy isn't it? Yeah, I took a few modifications to turn this trampoline into something far to my liking!"

0000000000000000000000000000

"Still need to come up with a better name for it", Robotnik said, "I didn't had time for one at the time. Although, I could gone with Trampolinik….sounds good?"

000000000000000000000000000

"Uhhh, are you sure this is going to work", Rocky asked, "Because no offense or anything, it just…"

Rocky proceeded to burst out laughing, which didn't sit well with the mighty Robotnik.

"Hmph, laugh all you want", Robotnik replied, "At least I'm proving to you all why I would be a worthy contender".

"Yeah, contender at being the lamest inverter", Stan join in this ridicule laughter, which begins to annoy Robotnik.

"Guys, come on", Emily said, "I think it's kinda adorable he would design a trampoline. Isn't that right?"

"Uhhh no, I prefer it being called sophisticated than being adorable", Robotnik replied, "Although, I appreciate the compliment".

"Hey, can I eat your trampoline?" Mr. Frog asked him.

"What? No, you cannot", Robotnik responded, as he hop onto the trampoline.

"You know at this point", Sanji replied, "You could've just make yourself a jetpack".

"As if. I'm going with something more simpler" Robotnik bounces on the trampoline and jumps way higher into the sky.

"Whoa, look at him go!" Chris remark.

Everyone stood there, looking up and waiting for anything to happen.

Waiting…..

Waiting….

Waiting…

Until Chris asked, "Ummm, does anyone want to go next?"

0000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, so we probably should've been more prepare", Mahiru confess, "I mean how can you when your entire team gets tossed into day one of the show".

000000000000000000000000000000

A series of montages happen where each member of the team takes turns, with Jose trying and failing to prove he's a better leader by sending out the best of the best and coming up with excuses while Stan keeps proving and failing to show off his leadership capability in trying to benefit the team with his own strategy.

Muscle Man was next, who was delighted to hear.

"Woohoo!" Muscle Man shouted, swinging his shirt out once more, "Oh yeah! It's my turn to go! Watch and learn, dudes! This is how a real man does it!"

It only takes a few seconds when sounds of laser firing can be heard, causing Muscle Man to squeal like a pig and fall back down, all burning up and in smoke.

Second was Eddy, as he was much further away from where Muscle Man was. As he was climbing, he got immediately electrocuted by a pole that strung out.

After being electrocuted for a long minute, he fell straight down. Landing all burned up. Celebi look on in worry and disappointment, as it didn't prove his point as leader.

"Did I won?"

Third is Conker. Like many, he tried to take things a bit slower, but immediately got a frying pan slam in his face, causing him to fall.

The fourth of this montage is Scott, as it was his turn to take on this task.

Only for a picture of his worst enemy, a mutant shark named Fang, sprung up and startled him, causing him to fall to the ground, groaning.

This angered Jose further, "Darn! Darn! DARN! How hard is it for any of you to simply climb up there!"

"How about you do it yourself!" Scott retorted.

"Grrr, this is getting irritating".

000000000000000000000000

"It's not my fault that no progress hasn't been made", Jose confessed, "It's my team's fault. They are not in shape enough to deal with it".

0000000000000000000000000

Jose is struggling to enact his next act, which Pirate Captain laughs at, "No offense, but it appears you're hitting rock bottom right now".

This offended the little boy, shouting at him, "Shut up! I'm not done yet! I'm just….trying to come up with our next strategy".

"You know I could think of a better strategy", Pirate Captain told him, "It's call, leaving everything to me".

"Uhhh, I don't get it", Clobber remarks, "Are you referring to yourself or him?"

"Oh, if you're going to be all cocky about it", Jose approached him, "Why not go up there and prove yourself!"

"Oh, I would love to", Pirate Captain told him, "Little scoundrel! To show you that I have the perfect skillset to prove to you and everyone, including my crew back at home, I'm worthy for that title…..which doesn't roll off the tongue well if you combine the words together. Pirate team captain. Sounds less single".

The both of them proceed to stare at each other, angrily until Wilykat cut in, "Uhhh hey, listen. If you guys want, I could go next".

"What?" Jose asked.

"Just asking. Kinda getting bored standing around and watching you guys fighting", Wilykat replied, "Gets really old".

"Yeah, I'm kinda in agreement with the kid here", Nami told them, "You guys need to stop, especially you little brat".

"Grrr, fine!" Jose replied, "Kat! Get your whisker up there! Now!"

000000000000000000000000000

"Was it really foolish for me to argue with a loud lad?" Pirate Captain confesses, "Of course not! He started it! Now granted, it doesn't really present my case for why I should be nominated as the team captain. I have everything unlike that brat like a nice beard, a beautiful hat, a…..ummm, good sword".

00000000000000000000000000

"Okay, looks like they already sent in one of their own", Mahiru asked her team, "Does anyone want to volunteer next? Anyone?"

As the team decides who to go next, Rocky jumps around and raises his arm, desiring to go next, "Me! Me! Mememememememe! Me!"

"Rocky!" Mahiru asked, confusingly, "You want to go next?"

Rocky nodded, "Yeah, I figure it makes more perfect sense to send out their bestest feline competitor out in the open. Makes the challenge more interesting, you know".

00000000000000000000000000000

"Taking this opportunity", Rocky confesses, "I like to know a little more of that scoundrel, considering he and I are like the only feline, walking, bipedal creatures in this train, besides Liko pal of course".

0000000000000000000000000000

As Rocky heads toward the tree on all four, Stan proudly remarks to himself, which didn't sit Mahiru well.

"Heh, finally one of my more loyal contributors goes next".

"Stan, I didn't see him volunteering in your place", She pointed out.

"Please. Of course he did. I think I saw him give me a wink".

"He gave it to all of us".

"How would you know? Are you psychic?" Stan asked, making a fake gasp and pretending to be shocked, "Oh my god! She's totally hiding something here, guys! I just knew it!"

"Stan, would you just stop it!"

The two begin to argue, the other team gives some of their commentary on the whole event.

"Man, they are really going at it each other", Dust remarked.

"Tell me about it", Zoro said, "At this rate, if they keep going we may actually lose this".

"I really hope not" Ashe added, "We are already on our first challenge, and right now it is just constant fighting over leadership".

As this was going on, Hades decided to make his move as he muttered to himself, "Alright then, looks like some of my competition are distracted. Time to make my move".

000000000000000000000000000

"Looks like the big man in the universe is doing me a good favor", Hades remarked, "Take the loud, obnoxious, goodie two shoe away, leaving me the free birdies to influence".

000000000000000000000000000000

"Look at them", Hades nonchalantly commented next to them, "Arguing like children. And here I thought they were the mature ones".

"Mahiru seems pretty mature", Blue Pearl said.

"Yeah, arguing with a slob like him instead of showing concern to our crazy, feline maniac", Hades said, "I tell ya, guys. If I were team captain, I would've obviously gone with a quicker route and have you guys storm up there, right?"

"Isn't that a bit unpractical?" Reg asked.

"No, but it's something", Hades continued, "Come on, compared to those doofuses I'm like…leagues better than those halfwits, right, right?"

Everyone stared at him in silence with no response, much to his disappointment,"No comment? No comment, got it. Really considering my offer".

"You haven't really made much of an offer", Megumin pointed out.

"Alright, alright, listen", Hades explained to them, once more, "Think about it. I have the charm, I have the smarts, I have the strength and power to do whatever I want for you guys. I'm literally A-plus material".

"Hmmm, well you're truly acting like a god", James Bond remarked, "That's for certain".

"Still, I'm not sure you seem cut out for this", Megumin pointed.

"Not sure, huh?", Hades continues, moving around about to make his point and to try to convince them even further, "Listen, I'm a literal god of the Underworld, alright? I literally have to manage a trillion souls down there. Trillion. Beyond Trillion, okay? It's a difficult job to be in, but I managed to scorch away my setbacks and got that place running like hell!"

"I don't see how this relates to you being a leader", Conker pointed out, then getting startle s Hades got up close to him.

"IT IS!" Hades shouted, flames sprung up which startled her. Eventually he calmed down and composed himself, "It is, it is, I'm trying to make a point. Give you guys some insight about me, and how I would be an ideal choice as team captain. Alastor, help me out here".

"Sorry, too occupied with my own things", Alastor replied, having his own tea break complete with a table, plates, bread, butter, and utensils.

Hades groan for a bit as the cast look among each other, with Emily giving a response, "Umm, can you hold up for a moment. Some of us are kinda-"

"Considering it? Oh finally", Hades said, "Take your time, sugar angel. Betting you guys will make the right decision".

"Uhhh yeah", As Hades is far from their reach, she discusses their current issue going on within their team.

Mainly to Reg, James Bond, Dust, Blue Pearl, Ashe, Conker, Zoro, Sanji, and Megumin.

"I think Hades wants to be team captain".

"Umm, kinda obvious from the onset", Megumin replied, "Honestly, I'm just not interested in participating in these kinds of things".

"We gotta do something about this", Sanji said, "I suggest we just settle with one we are all already thinking about".

"Who?" Ashe asked.

"Mahiru, obviously".

"You want her to be team captain?" Reg asked.

"Isn't that surprising", Zoro remarks, sarcastically.

"Hey, it isn't like that! I just think she's far better at handling this than Stan Smith or Hades".

"Hmmm, you do have a point", Emily replied, "I do like her, but I don't how she would react to this".

"I'm sure she'll take it pretty well".

"Honestly, I'm kinda on board with that idea", Conker replied, "She's less of an a** compared to the other contenders".

00000000000000000000000000000000

"After thinking this over", Emily confesses, "She does have some trait of being a good team captain. She even spoke out too".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

Wilykat pulled out his Flink, a retractable device that can shoot out a string with an ornament, adorned with three claws.

He used it to grab at the nearest top and began climbing.

As he climbs and climbs, he checks down and notices he is very high, "Oh man, I'm really high up. Guess radical hair girl wasn't kidding about this being so high".

"Tell me about it. Sometimes it gets annoying when people keep describing me like that".

On the other side, Rocky joins by just casually climbing and acting unfazed through the whole deal.

The two exchange witty remarks.

"So how's your team doing?" Wilykat asked.

"Not great", He shrugged, "You?"

"Eh, ain't much better. Pirate guy is pretty neat", Wilykat replied, "He's a lot better than the pirates I had to encounter back home".

"Whoa, you dealt with pirates?"

"Yep. Even won a few fights. There were the Berserkers, Captain Cracker, and…..yeah, pretty much it".

"Wow, you are living the best life", Rocky replied, "All I had to deal with is mob bosses and the IRS".

"IRS?"

"Yeah, guys in suits. Way worse than getting bullets shot at ya", Rocky replied, "Had to move towns every time I get into trouble".

"Boy, you tell me".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"Rocky seems like a pretty chill guy", Wilykat confesses, "Never thought I actually met both a familiar face and someone who shares the same interests as I do".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

As the two felines conversed with each other, the rest took notice and watched.

"Ummm, what are they doing?" Sanji asked.

"Looks like they are talking", Emily remarked.

"Yeah, I prefer talking when it involves drama", Chris proceeded to pull out a megaphone, "Hey you two! Stop being a bunch of lazy cats and get moving!"

The two felines heard it, which annoyed them for a bit.

"Man, couldn't the guy wait until we finish our pleasant conversation?" Rocky remark, "Welp, it was nice chatting with ya kid, but it looks like we have to end our conversation he-"

He turns his head around and quickly realizes Wilykat is gone, much to his shock.

Then he stared right up, saw Wilykat was at the top as he waved and smirked back at him.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"The best method in winning", Wilykat confesses, "Always found the perfect opportunity to outwit someone while they are off focus".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Alright! Time for me to grab for the wi-" Before Wilykat could reach into the jar, he noticed something off, "Wait a second, what's going on here?"

There were many identical keys.

A drone appears controlled by Chris, who explains the last part of this challenge, "Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. In order to move toward the next round, you gotta find a specific key with my face on one of them. Good luck on trying that".

"Aw what? You gotta be kidding me!" Wilykat moans, "This is gonna take a long time".

"Boo!" Rocky sprung up, startling Wilykat as he started to lose balance.

Before he fell, he grabbed Rocky tie and fell alongside him.

"Oh darn", Rocky remarks, as the impact is made, "Didn't listen clearly what that weird bird thing said".

"Oof! Look like both member of their team lost", Chris remark, "Oh well, who will go next?"

"My boy! Speak to me!" Pirate Captain came to Wilykat aid, "Are you alright?"

Wilykat got up, un-scathe. Same goes to Rocky.

"Yeah, I'm fine", Wilykat responded, "Could've make do without a jumpscare".

Rocky gave a delighted shrug in embarrassment.

"Sorry about the lost", Wilykat said to him.

"Nah, that's alright", Pirate Captain said, "It's not like you lost an arm or leg".

"Ha! Looks like your loyal help fail you!" Jose cackle, pointing at him.

"Well, well, it still doesn't prove anything", Pirate Captain replied, "Matter of fact, I'll go next! Yeah! I'll show you who's capable of leading".

"Dude, I don't think that sounds like a great idea".

"Don't worry. I'll be fine. What's the worst that could happen?"

( 3 seconds later ).

Pirate Captain scream is heard, as he falls back to the ground, injured and filled with bruises and burn marks.

Jose approaches him, bending down to look at him, "Pathetic".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"That was….not how I imagine it'll go down", Pirate Captain confesses, "If I'm being honest, I was sort of halfway there".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Okay, I just had enough with this", Damian said.

"Enough of what?" Robyn asked.

"Enough to deal with his constant complaints", Damian approaches the tree, not before shoving Jose away.

"Hey!"

Without hesitation, Damian ran up to the tree, running upward much to the contestant's bewilderment from both sides.

He dodges every trap from flamethrowers, spray bottles, hammers, and punching gloves.

Damian manage to reach the top, shove his hand into the jar and found the correct key.

Afterwards, he landed back on the ground without any slight injury or broken bones.

Everyone's jaws drop by the sight of it.

He then held up the key, in which Chris took one close glance and declared, "Looks like The Cruel Stars win the first round!"

'This resulted in his team to cheer and celebrate their victory, with the exception of Jose, who was more envious and not impressed.

The other team were a bit disappointed, especially Stan, "Well, I think we all should owe our thanks to someone in particular".

And right on cue, Robotnik crashes down on the ground. Lifting his head and asking, "Did we win?"

00000000000000000000000000

"So what if he won", Jose confessed, "Anyone can easily do that, if some of my teams weren't lazy".

000000000000000000000000

Both teams ( and alongside their companions or helper ) are now at two closed mines near the mountains.

"Cheer up, Mahiru", Tiff told her, "It's not your fault we lost. Hopefully we can win this next round".

"Yeah, I hope so".

Hades chuckled to himself, which caught Alastor's attention, "You seem satisfy about yourself".

"Oh, I'm just betting on my team here, hoping they make the right choice".

"You really think they might?"

"Heh, totally".

000000000000000000000000000000

"Admittedly, I was a bit too overly-confident to the whole ordeal", Hades admits, "Got too zealous about it, but hey you know, can't blame a god for having high hopes for his team".

00000000000000000000000000000000

"Welcome to the second and final challenge for today", Chris announced, "In this challenge, all of you must enter through these two locked up mine tunnels, which will lead you to your next task. To give you guys a few fun facts about the native lifeform on this planet, there about twenty million different species living on this planet. One of them are called the Ki'rriri".

"The what?" Frollo asked.

"The…you know what, I'm just gonna refer to them as simply pests", Chris explain further, "These things reside within caves, mines and tunnels. They are known for sucking the minerals and creating earthquakes. You guys need to go there and exterminate them. Then bring all of their bodies outside, which would give me time to count how many pests you kill, which will determine the true winner".

"Yeah, this honestly just sounds", Debbie pointed, "Pretty gross".

"I know. Thank you".

"Umm excuse me, doesn't this country have some kind of cleaning task team that could deal with this?" Lando asked, "Like you know, the professionals".

"Yes..."

"And?"

"What? You expect me to explain it further", Chris asked, moving on without elaborating, "Now since the Cruel Stars won last challenge, they get to have what is contained in this chest".

Copperhead came to open the chest with the same key. After it's open, it is revealed to be...flamethrowers, "Flamethrowers!"

"Hell ya!" Jose exclaimed, feeling excited about this, "Now we are talking!"

"So cool", Mabel stared at them in awe, "Gimmie!"

"Umm excuse me", Wolverine asked, "Isn't this a bit too inappropriate? I mean, I'm not sure if this is a good idea to give literal flamethrowers to kids".

"Yeah, but they seem mature enough to handle it", Chris told him, "Either that, or you don't have to use them. It's optional".

000000000000000000000000000000

"I am totally pleased by what we got", Jose said, "No doubt it is due to my high intelligence factor".

000000000000000000000000000000

"A flamethrower?" Frollo remarked, "I have no idea what a flamethrower is, but it sounds like something I would've used long ago during the purging of gypsies".

0000000000000000000000000000

"Oh my gosh! Literal flamethrower", Mabel confessed, "That sounds...totally awesome! I always wanted those! That'll totally get mind off from those love thoughts I keep having".

0000000000000000000000000000

"Ummm hey, what about us?" Megumin asked, "What do we get?"

"Oh yeah, for your team you get...nothing!"

The team is dead silent from that response.

"Loving the eutheism", Chris continued, as Copperhead and "Just to recap, it's simple. Go through and start killing off these pests. Whoever comes back in time with the largest killing spree, wins. And they get to enjoy a night out at a special cafe near a small town. Paid by me, unfortunately".

"We are totally going to that cafe", Jose stated to his team, "You hear me?!"

"You seem awfully silent", Wendy said to Paradox, "Everything okay?"

"Why yes, I'm alright", Paradox replied, "Just don't feel like talking".

"Anyways, good luck with your killing. Remember, you guys got 45 seconds", Chris said, but before he went one of the contestants asked him a question.

"Wait, shouldn't you unlock the entrances?" Mahiru asked.

"I would, but I don't have the keys. You guys figure that out".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Well this is just great", Stan confessed, "Fantastic. We could've gotten those wicked, flamethrowers, but oh no! Mrs. Mahiru decided to ruin everything for us!"

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Jose is the first to grab one of the flamethrowers while shoving Mabel and Brendan out of the way, "Move! This one's mine!"

"This is seriously illegal", Wolverine commented.

"Never thought you be the sensible type", Nami remarked.

"I just have a clear head", Wolverine replied, "Hopefully these pests aren't gonna be much of a problem".

"Me too", Nami said, "I'm kinda wondering if there's any treasure hidden in there".

"Look at me!" Mabel shouted, holding her flamethrower in the air and shooting flames, "I'm Mabel the Fire Mechanical Dragon!"

Frollo came next and grabbed the flamethrower, seemingly morbidly fascinated by it, "Hmmmm intriguing. So this is what an actual modern weapon looks like".

0000000000000000000000000000

"I have never wielded something like this before", Frollo confessed, "Despite me having visited House of Rat many times I've never got the chance to learn more about the technology in this new world".

000000000000000000000000000

"You there, child", Frollo asked Brendan, "Aren't you going to pick one up?"

"I'm not that type of a person to hold a weapon like this", Brendan replied, "Nor do I know how to use it".

"Me neither", Packard said, pulling the given cart along with shovels in it, "I'm not much of a fighter myself. I used to, but not anymore".

"Eh, if it seems alright with you guys", Wendy replied, picking up one, "I'm totally cool with using one. Gosh, these are heavy".

Nami came last and took up the flamethrower, remarking at it, "Not the first time I use something that isn't my main weapon".

"Ummm, I prefer using my Pokemon", Liko said, as Floragatto and Hattrem nodded in agreement.

00000000000000000000000000000000000

"I don't know what I was kinda expecting when entering this show", Liko confess, "I thought it was going to be a lot of fun and stuff. Never thought I would experience something like this before".

000000000000000000000000000000000000

The Cruel Stars manage to grab their flamethrowers and head toward the lock mine.

"Alright team, I need someone to tear this thing down!" Jose said to his team, pointing at the locked entrance.

"Let me do it", Wolverine volunteered, "I haven't used my claws for a while now".

"Ha! Cat claws? How's that going to work?" Jose asked him, mockingly.

"First off, it's Wolverine claws, okay? My title is literally the Wolverine", He told him, approaching the mine entrance, "Second, watch me".

With his hands raised, the claws shoot out from his grip, much to everyone's surprise. The most surprise came from Claude Frollo, as he had never seen such an oddity do that.

Wolverine then proceeds to slice the chains off and wood. With a double slice, everything that was right in front of them collapses.

"Well, come on then", Logan gestured to them, "We got work to do".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"How did that...that...thing manage to do that?" Frollo asked himself, "Is it one of his devilish spells that allow him to do that or is he a werewolf? Likely both".

000000000000000000000000000000000

The Bloody Bastards stood, as they wondered how to remove the locks right in front of them.

"Hmmm, perhaps we should try finding some way to cut it like the other team did", Mahiru remarked, "Anyone has suggestions?"

"Nah, I say we all back away for a second and ram it", Stan suggested.

"That could work".

"Ha! See! You finally see why I'm capable of being a leader".

"Dang it, Stan, focus! I'm not trying to prove you right. We are here to win, remember?"

"Yeah, and by winning you mean me winning at being team captain".

"Alright, alright, break it up you two", James suggested, "We need to stay focus. Any suggestion would be fine that isn't meant to satisfy someone's need for leadership"".

"See! Listen to the British spy guy", Stan told her, "He knows what he's doing".

"That goes to you too, sir".

"Ouch….thought we were on the same side here".

"You know, if you two aren't doing anything useful", Aqua told them, acting cocky about this, "How about letting me handle it. I know what I can do".

"What? You? Are you going to help?" Stocking asked.

"Uhhh yeah, got a problem?"

"Listen here, I may once have been from another team, but I know full well you're just gonna humiliate yourself right in front of us", She told her, which deeply offended her.

"No I'm not! I've changed for the better. I can do this!"

"Better. Probably worst".

Just as another argument is going to happen, a loud explosion is heard. They turned and saw that the lock and fortification got destroyed into debris.

It was Megumin who struck it down with her staff, much to everyone's shock.

000000000000000000000000000000000000

"What? I'm not going to wait until they stop whining", Megumin confessed, "If we ever lose and I get voted off, I might as well use some of my spell for something".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"Whoa Megumin! What did you do?" Mahiru asked her.

"I use one of my spells to explode it opening", Megumin replied, "Now we can go in".

"That's amazing", Ashe complimented her.

"Great work, young girl", Alastor added as well.

While some of her teammates compliment her, Aqua stood there, completely stunned.

"I mean...I can do that", Aqua said, "I can...totally do something like that if I want to".

"Oh yeah, like what?" Megumin asked, "Do you have the same explosive spell as me? No, no you don't".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, she totally cheated me out here", Aqua confessed, "I was going to be literally useful for once. I am. I was going to use my waves to burst the locks out open. But nope, she came and literally ruined everything for me. I swear, if we lose I am totally going to vote her off. The only problem is, I'm not sure if my teammates will do the same. I hope so".

00000000000000000000000000000000

( The Cruel Stars ).

The team roam through the dark, empty, and wet tunnel, leading them to a constant area of unknown.

Most were a little afraid, others remained cautious to whatever task was at hand.

Jose was the most fearful, with DJ coming second, unable to hold his flamethrower steady.

He was in a constant shudder, as he quickly looked around the place, too concerned to remain calm.

"Ugh this place smells awful", Debbie remarked to Brendan, "I am seriously in need of a shower right about now".

"It's dingy that's for sure", Lando remarked, "I've been inside mines before and this is something else".

"Well it is an alien planet", Liko said, "Maybe the environment is different".

"Guys, I heard stories about mines", Clobber explained, "Where if you go deep enough, you might encounter some ancient monster lurking beneath the ground".

"Okay, you're not giving me any good reassurement of this place", Nami told her.

"Sorry. Thought it would be appropriate enough to bring that up".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Clobber seems like a….odd fella", Nami confess, "She's not bad, but sometime she can be a bit clumsy in some parts".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Hey Jose, I seem to notice you looking worried", Damian sarcastically remarked next to him, "Are you afraid?"

"Afraid? Hell no! I-I'm just cautious, that's all", Jose told him, "In case these pests try to jump at me".

"Weeeee! I love caves!" Mabel said, running around and being the least concerned about this whole situation.

"Umm Robin, don't you think bothering him is only going to make things a bit worse?" Robyn asked Damian, "I mean, I'm not supporting his action and all, but I feel a bit concerned that it may backfire on us as a team".

"Eh, not really. Jose is a brat. What else makes him important, anyways? Other than being annoying".

"True", Robyn continues, "Still, I really do not want to lose, you know".

"Relax. I'm not going to bother him too much. He's not worth my time".

Then, Jose stopped at his track as it would seem he stepped on something, "Eww! I seem to step on some gum or something".

As the team came, they realized the horrible sight in front of them. Even Jose took notice.

It wasn't any gum or sticky substance. It looks like what appears to be a green, soft and sticky tissue, with human eyes and mouth on it.

This startled Jose, causing him to jump and land onto Logan arms, "Wha-what is that?!"

"Dear god! What is this abomination!" Frollo pointed.

"Eeeewww, this is literally worse than seeing a larva giving birth", Debbie added, pulling out her phone and taking photos and video at it.

The thing itself doesn't seem harmful, nor does it do anything. It remains stuck to the ground, while its mouth remains active, not spurring any words out other than breathing sounds.

Paradox, unlike the rest like DJ who was so startled that it led to him to faint, bend down and take a closer look. He did this out of curiosity, putting his finger at it to touch it.

Once he stood up, he spoke up as well, "I see. It would appear to be the right pest we need to ensure they are dead".

"Really? Those are the pests?" Wolverine asked, "I thought it was something more dangerous that could literally tear us apart".

"I thought so too but then I remembered", Paradox explained, "Clearly these are victims from long ago".

"Wait a minute, are you saying that these things we need to do were-?" Before Liko could finish, Paradox nodded.

"Yes, indeed. Although, probably not. I don't know. Sometimes my memory gets a bit fuzzy".

"Ugh, I don't know if you are clearly mad, but there is nothing to be happy about", Frollo told him.

"Well that's least of my concern", Donald said, as he used his flamethrower to light the pest on fire, killing it and burning it into black crisp, "See? Easy. Mmmmm that smells good. Smells like cooked chicken".

"Uhhh guys, I don't think that's one we have to deal with", Wendy pointed directly toward the path where they are heading, as right in front of them, the tunnel is covered from top to bottom to both sides with these pests.

All stick together like webs and all have human eyes and mouths. Some mouths remain open to reveal tongues out.

000000000000000000000000000000000000

DJ sat in the stall in a cradle position, while sucking his thumb, "Did you see that? Those...things! They were literally staring at my soul!"

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Heheheh, pretty traumatic, huh?" Chris asked, "It's a shame they aren't harmful. That would've made things more entertaining".

000000000000000000000000000000000

( The Blood Bastards ).

Aqua screams by the huge sight of it, as the tunnel that they are heading in is now infected with lots and lots of pests.

They have entered a huge opening, with three tunnels leading to different directions.

"Ew baby, those are the most hideous creatures I have ever seen", Hades remarked, "Then again, I saw far worse at my place. My commission art given from my supposed followers. Literally awful, I hate them".

"Oh god! Wha-what are these?" Mahiru asked, "This is horrible. Does Chris really expect us to handle this?"

"Let's not waste any time here", James told them, holding his pistol out, with everyone else preparing to use their ability and weapons to get the job done, "We got a serious job to do here".

"Umm right! Got it", Mahiru composed herself, "Okay everyone, listen up. I know this may seem bad but we have to ensure we win this. No matter how disgusting it may seem".

"The girl laddie is right", Silver agrees, weidling out his laser cannon, "I've endured far worse. This is literally child play to me".

"Exactly", Mahiru continues, "So I need everyone to stick together if we going to win this. Got that everyone?"

Everyone was in agreement, except for Stan who crossed his arm and scoffed at that idea.

"Anyways let's get going", Mahiru gestured to her competitors to follow.

As they all follow her, Stan stay behind being bitter about what's been going on currently, "Great, now everyone is following her. My day is ruin!"

"Your day?", Hades said, who also remained behind, "Please. Only dividend intervention would obviously go to me, making my day any better".

"What are you smirking about? If I recall, you haven't done anything".

"Oh, I sort of did", Hades replied, "Kinda convince some of our teammates about my trait. Let's just say even if we do lose, the result might come in".

( Back to the Cruel Stars ).

The task has begun. Flames of smoke and flares burst into the scene that had mainly been made up of darkness. Now lights have been filled up the tunnel, as some of the contestants that wielded flamethrowers began to fire upon the pest, burning them into crisp.

The contestants with no flamethrowers and instead resorting to their weapon, were still doing the job at hand.

Wolverine uses his claws to pierce through the pest, Damian uses his sword to slice every pest down, and Brendan and Packard were the only ones not doing any of the killings. They were simply shoveling the remains of the dead pests into the cart.

Frollo seems to take a bit of a liking of using the flamethrower, "Ah yes...fire...the blazing torch of hell itself. It is truly something for me, a Judge to use a weapon, likely crafted by demons".

"Looks like someone is totally enjoying it", Mabel commented.

"I'm not enjoying it. I'm just...testing it out if it works".

"Come on, you don't need to hide anything", Mabel told him, "There's no shame in trying new things. I like trying new things, and it's amazing".

"You are a mad child", Frollo said.

"Thank you".

"That wasn't a compliment".

"I know".

Paradox, meanwhile, examines a bit further with these pests, even picking one of them up, "Fascinating. Who knew that these things could last longer here without much exposure to sunlight".

"You really take quite an interest over these weird guys", Packard comments, still with a deadpan expression and smoking.

"Duh, I'm a scientist. Science requires the intrigue from someone like me and the oddity from things like these pests. Perhaps I may have gone a bit more mad from my experience with time but oh well, nothing to do much about it".

"You think he's a little-?" Brendan could finished asking Packard, she replied for him/

"Nuts. Probably. I'm no science expert, but I've seen weirdos like him in my days".

Right next to him is DJ, who is unable to shoot the flames at a small pest in front of him. Feeling great fear, doubts, and nervousness about this.

"Hey DJ, are you alright?" Wolverine asked, which startled him, "Keep up the work. We don't want that annoying kid to yell at us again".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, to be perfectly honest", DJ confessed, "I've never liked killing things that are alive and such. Those pests, despite Chris forcing us to do it, isn't my thing. I mean I don't care if it looks ugly, I would never harm it".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

( Back to the Blood Bastards ).

The team finally made their way to one of the tunnels on the left, finally making a stop in front of a huge opening area.

Before them is a large, massive pit, stretching across the area like an ocean.

Down in the pit were dozens of pests, all cramping together and sticking together, while creating a wave-like movement.

Mahiru almost had a sick stomach. Almost was going to gag. But Silver came by and tried to comfort her, assuring her, "Hey, take it easy there, kiddo. It's just a simple task we need to deal of".

"Yeah...yeah, you right", Mahiru said, "Still, how are we going...ummm, you know? Put them to-"

"You mean kill, right?" Stan asked, "Because if that's the case then you must be terrible with words. Hahahahahahaha!"

Silver retorted, slapping him at the head, "Ow! What? I was just joking".

"Let me handle this", Sakazuki said, getting everyone's attention toward him as he approached the edge.

No one tried to oppose him because as soon as he came glancing down at the pit below, his right arm began to glow red. A spark of flames spit out from the hand.

Then it began to erupt into puffs of magma, a light of hard and heated substances as it spilled out of his arm. He then proceeds to do the same with his left arm as well, both turning into magma.

He aims both the arms up, knowing full well how high the ceiling is.

With one loud, mighty voice, he shouted, "METEOR VOLCANO!"

He then began shooting the flames of magma upward as it disappeared into the darkness. He kept firing, until he stopped.

After a long seconds of silence, the shooting magma soon came down upon the pests. Hitting them and engulfing them into flames. The flames spread throughout the area in the pit, as now the oceans of pests began to burn into the pit of fire.

This shocked some by the sight of it, but Akainu stood seriously without a hint of any emotion.

0000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Damn, that was...fire!" Hades remarked, "Looks like I'm not the only guy with fire ability. Not that I'm jealous or anything...then again, there is Alastor".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"How were you able to do that?" Mahiru asked him.

"Simple", Zoro replied for her, "He ate a Devil Fruit that grants him power and some special ability. The only problem is those who ate it cannot swim".

"Seems...kinda impractical for someone to be a Fleet Admiral that can't swim", Tiff pointed out.

"Well then it doesn't matter", Alastor commented, "This man seems more capable of doing the job than Stocking".

"Oh that is just-" Before Stocking could retort-

"Enough screwing around," Sakazuki told everyone, "We got a job to do".

000000000000000000000000

"It's already worrying enough that with Sakazuki Devil Fruit", Zoro confesses, "It's unlikely he'd be eliminated early".

00000000000000000000000000000

The Bloody Bastards begins as every contestant from their team is doing their part in securing their victory from this.

Dust and Zoro use their blades to start slicing down the pests.

Sakazuki uses his Devil Fruit to continue his rampage by burning every single pest alive until they close their eyes.

Silver changes his cybernetic hands into his own personal torch, as he starts burning the pests.

James Bond and Stan Smith, whip out their guns and start shooting.

Despite the Bloody Bastards having started their challenges, the Cruel Stars were still gaining the advantage with their additional help of a flame thrower.

"Darn, my gun is jammed", James remarked, as the clicking of his gun resulted in nothing.

"Try stomping on it. Makes it more efficient", Tiff told him.

"Alright then", Before he could do that, Mr. Frog came by, snatched his gun, and swallowed it without hesitation.

"Heheheh, tasty".

"Hey, give it back".

"Nope", He replied, as he ran off before James could grab him. Mr. Frog was so fast, he began grabbing several pests and putting them in his mouth. He seems to be enjoying it.

"That horrid thing", James Bond said to himself, "Took me four years to buy that".

"Do you need any help?" Reg asked Bond, coming toward him.

"Why yes", James replied, "Mind helping me run after that thing and get my gun back. That would be appreciate".

"But wouldn't that be kinda wrong to tackle one of our own?"

"I was being sarcastic".

"Oh, okay then".

"Say lad", James asked, taking notice of his robotic arms, "I notice both your arms are...robotic. Fully robotic".

"Hmm? Umm yeah, they kinda are", Reg replied, looking at them.

"Are they useful?".

"Yes, but not right now", Reg explained, "I can only use my arms for practical means like in combat, grappling something, or aiming at a specific target".

"Aiming targets? You can actually shoot bullets out of it or lasers?"

"Lasers, although that would be kinda risky. Especially since using too much would put me to sleep".

"Interesting", James remarked, "For a child like you, I didn't expect you to hold such power".

"Me neither".

0000000000000000000000000000000000

"That lad is an interesting boy", James remarked, "It intrigues me most that with those enhanced technology, it had to be embedded in that child. I wonder why?"

000000000000000000000000000000000000

( Meanwhile, back to the Cruel Stars team ).

The teams were almost wrapping up their kill count. The further they descend into the mine, the better they find more pests in a round, open area with no other tunnels leading to somewhere else.

It was as if this tunnel hadn't been left unfinished.

Satsuki continued forward with slicing the pest off with her blade. Showing no struggle and showing less stress. She moved to the next one casually and nonchalantly.

Brendan, being the only one from Ryuko's friend group left, was a bit curious about Ryuko's rival. More so, even since she came onto the show, regardless of her referring to him and Wendy as peasants.

Packard took notice, lilting a cigarette and taking a smoke, "What's bothering you, kid? Saw something that piqued your interest?"

"It's odd", Brendan replied, "I notice Satsuki hasn't emote a whole lot. I was expecting someone who's really devoted with being high class and stuff to react drastically. Here, she seems to tolerate it".

"It's probably her stasis thing. I know people like her before".

"Still, it's going to be awkward to have her around, knowing Ryuko history with her and all".

"You could go talk to her".

"You think I should?"

"Maybe. Kid, you met Ryuko before right?"

"Umm yes".

"Perhaps try doing what you and Ryuko normally do. Only with her, instead".

"Hmmm I guess I could try", Brendan said, "I am a bit curious. Although I don't know if she would be interested in any of the stuff I'm into. Then again, me and Ryuko aren't really that much alike in terms of interest".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"The boy seems harmless", Satsuki remarked, "At the same time, it makes me even wonder why she chose him to be her friend. Clearly he doesn't hold much value, other than being a drawer. I can see Mako being worthy enough as she seems capable of fighting, as well as being the one to give her shelter and support. Him, I'm not sure. Whatever the cast, I'm not going to be distracted by my own thoughts on the matter".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Frollo continues to use his flamethrowers on the pest themselves.

As he was doing so, he couldn't help but be fascinated by the fire. The fire dancing in blazes, as he stared at it more closely.

It was as if he saw a woman dancing.

A woman identical to someone who he knew.

Someone he lusts.

Someone….he wants to forget! As he blinked and shook his head, trying to get rid of what he just saw.

"Hey Frollo, are you alright?" Nami asked.

"I'm fine", He replied, grudgingly, "Mind your own business!"

"Sheesh, don't need to act all grumpy", Nami said to herself, then taking notice of Damian slicing each pest down with one strike, "Huh, looks like someone is taking this task a lot seriously. For a kid, he's surprisingly efficient".

"Well, based off his background", Wolverine commented, "You never know how much stamina that kid has. He must've been either raise terribly or well".

"I see", Nami then turn her attention to him, "By the way, are you some sort of animalistic guy with wolverine power or something?"

"No, not really", Wolverine replied, "And as mutants, we each have different abilities. Mine is pretty much what you just describe".

"Interesting".

( Back to the Bloody Bastard ).

Their team was still in the middle of their pest control job. Despite some feeling disgusted in doing the task at hand, the progress overall has been positive.

As the cart is now being filled up by dead pests.

"Okay hurry up and wrap it up", Mahiru announced, "We only have a few seconds until it is over".

As the task continued at hand, Blue Pearl was efficient enough to slice down some pests with her spears without any of the task being bothersome.

Her expression remained blank, cutting down pest after pest, all a while Dust looked on.

"Wow, never knew she's a fighter", Dust remarked.

"I know", Fidget commented, "I actually thought she was just a shy ballerina".

"You know I can hear you two", Blue Pearl said, causing Fidget to startle.

"She heard us!" Fidget hide behind Dust, "Did she see me? Of course she can't! Her hair is in the way!"

"Your friend is kinda obnoxious", Blue Pearl pointed out.

"Yeah, she can sometime be that way", Dust replied.

"Hey, I heard you! You better take that back", Fidget responded.

"It's kinda cute in an interesting way", Blue Pearl remarked, smiling at him.

He smiles back, as the two stare in silence until she resumes back to her work.

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I'm gonna be real with you", Fidget tells Dust, "She is super weird. Like, weird, weird. Have you noticed she drew? I notice, and it's some weird, neck monster with a smiling face".

"I don't think she's that odd", Dust replied, "I think your just exaggerating".

"I'm exaggerating?! Please!"

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"Hey ummm, guys?" Ashe asked the team, using his bow and arrows to shoot down some pests, "Is it me or are we missing someone?"

"Missing? Missing who?" Sanji asked, stomping down the pest, "I don't see anyone missing".

"Strange? Because I'm pretty certain we are missing someone".

"Hey guys, what's going on here?" Mahiru asked them.

"I'm wondering if we are missing a competitor", Ashe replied, "Because I don't know, but I'm feeling an uneasy mood that we are".

"Huh, now you mention it..." Sanji responded, feeling that mood as well.

Both of them were in the same position, as things felt a bit off right now.

Then a sudden realization hit Mahiru, "Oh my god".

---

( Somewhere else in the cave ).

"Phew, seems like I got a huge body count", Zoro remarked at the remains of every dead pest laying around, "I sure hope we win after this because I need some refreshment".

Then a realization struck him, as he looked around and noticed something off. His fellow comrades aren't in sight, nor can he hear anyone.

"Wait a second...where is everybody?"

---

"You lost him?!" Mahiru asked Sanji, finding out that one of their members has been missing.

"What? You expect me to keep a close eye on him?" Sanji asked, "I'm not his pet owner, you know".

"Ha, looks like our potential team captain has failed us once again", Stan mocked.

"What?"

"You heard me. Potential. Looks like all that effort in keeping the team together has backfire".

"This is bad, real bad. We can't go out without him", Mahiru panic, "We'll lose".

"What are we going to do?" Reg asked.

"I'll go look for him".

"Whoa, are you insane?" Tiff asked, "This entire tunnel is huge. It's going to take forever to search for him".

"I have to try. We can't lose one of our members", Mahiru said, "I gotta make sure to see if he's going to be okay".

"Who cares! He can take care of himself. He'll be fine", Stan shouted, as Mahiru leave to find Zoro, leaving Tiff to look at him sternly, "What?"

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"I just wanna make it clear I wasn't intentionally trying to act like the leader", Mahiru confessed, "I thought it would go to someone else better. Now that I think about it, I guess that could explain why Stan was acting hostile to me".

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

After she departs she heads through one of the tunnels leading to somewhere else, believing she could find Zoro in there.

Granted, she wasn't sure if this tunnel would lead to her or not, but it was her best bet it would.

She kept walking, trying to call out his name, "Zoro?! Zoooooroooo! Where can he be?"

Her thoughts were filled with concern, as she kept going and going, feeling intense paranoia that someone is following her.

"I really hope he hadn't gone too far", She said to herself, "Then again, I really hope I didn't get lost. Probably should've thought this through. Still, why do I get the feeling I'm being followed?"

Just then, she heard a slithering noise coming behind her.

She turned and saw complete darkness from where she entered. There was a slithering noise coming from there, getting louder and louder.

At first, she thought it was the wind or likely, it could be Zoro.

As she approached closer she finally saw what it was or what she assumed to be related to the sound.

A gray bat is on the ground, screeching for its life. It was trapped under a rock. What makes this bat look peculiar is the fact there's no details on it, just the pure white eyes and mouth with a green aura surrounding its body.

"Gosh, it's a bat", Mahiru remarked, "Poor guy. Here, let me help you".

She proceeds to pick up the rock, which free it as it flicker around in front of him, seemingly making eye contact.

She was relieved, but also curious as the creature seemingly wanted to say something.

Then it departed, phasing through the wall, much to her surprise.

"Okay, that was weird", Mahiru remarked, " Don't know why it didn't go through the rock, though".

She turn around and saw a massive pest in front of her, readying to attack her.

Before she could react from her startelement, she heard a loud voice coming from behind the creature, "HELL HOUND!"

A magma fist penetrated the creature, causing it to gurgle and collapse to the ground, with Mahiru falling down by shock.

It was Sakazuki.

She wasn't sure to be relieved or terrified, as she didn't expect him to be here.

"Sakazuki...what are you doing here?" She asked him.

"Your team sent me to get you", Sakazuki responded, "Chris has ordered everyone to return. That means, you".

"Wait, the challenge is over?"

"Uh huh".

"Gosh, I must've been here too long", Mahiru then asked, "But what about Zoro?"

"GET GOING!"

---

Outside, both teams manage to come out with their cart filled up with dead pests.

Chris came by, going toward the Cruel Stars first, then the Bloody Bastards.

The cart is full, a large pile stacked up from top to bottom.

"Impressive", Chris remarked, "Didn't think you guys would do it. Then again, you guys do seem tough".

"Why thank you", Jose replied, "You can thanks to my role as team captain".

Damian fake cough, "Liar".

"Anyways, moving on with the Bloody Bastards", Chris said, approaching them.

Their cart was...not filled up enough. Only barely reaching the edge.

It would appear to seem that some of the contestants knew about this and were a bit disappointed.

"Wow...sheesh, seems like you guys are having a literal bad day today", Chris remarked, "Say, where's the camera girl, lava dude, and sword dude?"

"Ummm Zoro got lost in one of the tunnels", Tiff explain, "So Mahiru volunteer to-"

"Let me handle it better at explaining here", Stan cuts in, "So essentially what happened is that clumsy dolt, Mahiru got herself lost in the tunnel. We try sending two of our bestest and strongest competitor-"

"Hey, that's not how it goes", Blue Pearl pointed out.

"Umm yes it is", Stan told her off, then explaining to Chris, "Ignore her. She really requires a new haircut, you know".

"I see", Chris said, "Well, that doesn't matter anyways because the Cruel Stars team won! Which means, Jose is the new team captain!"

"Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yeeees!" Jose proclaims, "In your face! I'm your new team captain!"

His team were not so thrill about this news.

The others remain incredibly disappointed by the lackluster tactics they did during their first challenge.

"See you losers at the elimination ceremony", Chris informed, "Oh, and reminder you guys better choose your new team captain".

"Seriously, how did we manage to gain such a low body count", Hades wondered, "I could've sworn he had a big amount".

"Ooooooh I don't feel so good", Mr. Frog utter, as much to everyone's surprise he began to vomit.

Not spit or slime, but puking out dozens and dozens of pests.

He kept doing this until they all stacked up together in a pile.

After he finished, he collapsed to the ground, breathing heavily. Before spitting out James' pistol".

"Well….that explains everything", Megumin remarked, "We probably should've inspected this a lot closer".

"Heheheheh…sorry, heheheheheh".

Mahiru and Sakazuki arrive at the scene, much to some of the contestants' relief. Not so much with Akainu, but so much for Mahiru safety.

"Mahiru! Your back!" Tiff said.

"Yeah, we were totally worried about you", Sanji told her, "Oh, and also him as well".

"Yea, I'm totally alright guys", Mahiru replied, "So did we win?"

"Ummm does this look like we won!" Stan shouted at her.

"Whoa, what-what happened?" Mahiru asked.

"That stupid frog ate the pests", Tiff explained, "Which resulted in us losing, no thanks to him".

"That's terrible".

"And who's fault was that Stan asked her, "Hmmmm?"

"You blaming me for this?"

"Your the one that's supposed to maintain control, young lady, but here you are, running off somewhere else and not being concerned with our team effort!"

"I didn't know! Okay? I-I was in a haste".

"Didn't know. Ha! More like….cr*p, forgot what I was going to say. But anyways, the point is you suck and I'm not!"

"Wait a minute you two" Dust asked, "I just realized, Mahiru have you found Zoro yet?"

"Oh, Uhhhhh…."

---

( meanwhile ).

Zoro is still seen walking through the tunnel, still carrying the pests on his back as he tries to look for his team.

He is seen exhausted, wondering to himself, "Cr*p, where the hell am I. Don't tell me I ran around in circles?"

---

At the nearby town, the Cruel Stars celebrate their victory at a cafe tavern in a small town that was near and below the hills that include the first challenge obstacle.

Or at least, two of them as Jose and Lightning are the only ones celebrating for themselves. And rest look on tirelessly, except for some that try to enjoy their own party.

Pirate Captain in particular looks on in bitterness.

The town itself was nothing out of the ordinary. It resembles an old, European town, likely made around the 1600s.

Inside the cafe, everyone celebrated at a long, wooden table. Some were going crazy with their victory such as Bluehilda dancing on the table, Lightning kissing his bisect, and Mabel drinking a huge amount of soda.

Others relax, still acknowledging that nobody is going home.

"Hooray for us!" Mabel yelled, "Victory for the spoil!"

After she said that, she drank one more glass of soda, then collapsed on the floor, taking a snoring nap.

"Jesus, you weren't kidding, she goes rock hard at parties", Ryuko remarked to Wendy.

"Totally", Wendy replied, "Just be totally grateful there isn't any Smile dip in sight".

"So Ryuko, sorry you didn't make it to the second round", Brendan said to her.

"It's fine. Totally need a break from all the messed up sh*t Chris has to put us through. Can't wait for more after this".

"Can't really blame you", Robyn told her, "Your host is a lot worse compared to mine from that other show".

"Trust me, it gets worse".

"Still though, I applaud you for at least trying", Damian said, "Can't say the same with our new captain. He just stands around, yelling at us".

"Hey, please tone down your hatred with the captain", Robyn told him, "Try to relax and enjoy the victory. I know he's not…perfect, but at least acknowledge we didn't lose because of him".

"I would but…nah".

Just then, Satsuki spoke up to Ryuko, in which none of them would expect, "I'm a bit disappointed about your action today. I actually expected you to be more skillful at this, considering your last season experience".

"Hey, take it easy on her, ok?" Brendan tries to justify and defend her, "It hasn't been too long since the finale. She is still a little worn out. Most of us are".

"Yeah", Wendy said. "And if I recall, dude. You didn't really attempt to show off why you should be picked".

"I rather not indulge myself with this competition that I know wouldn't matter".

"Yeah, keep on coping".

"Whatever", Satsuki then turn her attention to Matoi again, "Just make sure you do not fail in the next challenge, Ryuko Matoi".

Instead of a reply, she nodded, "Right".

"Everyone! I want to make an announcement", Jose raises his voice to get everyone's attention, "I just want to let everyone know that despite me having a temper issue. Despite me sometimes yelling at you guys and acting like a total jerk to everyone for no reason. I just want to say….that without me, I still wouldn't win. So yeah, cheer for me! Give all your thanks to me as your new team captain!"

"Sha-yeah! Sha-cheer for Sha-Jose!" Lightning yelled, holding up a mug and acting as if he's drunk. Likely still recovering from the brain damage, resulting from his fall, "Wooooohoooooo! Shabam!"

After he did that, he then collapsed to the ground. Just like Mabel, he too took a nap.

"Well that's enough excitement for me to handle", Ryuko said, getting up, "I'm going to get some fresh air.

She headed out into an alleyway, all alone and breathing heavily.

Then all of a sudden, she heard footsteps coming from the darkness behind her in the ally.

She turned around and saw a child, dressed in a black cloak. He approaches her.

Assuming to be a lost child, Ryuko asked kindly, "Umm hi, are you lost, kid?"

"It seems I have finally found you".

"Huh?"

"My name is not important. I am a messenger bringing you a call".

"A call? What is this?"

The child proceeds to pull out a flat, disc-like device, as it reveals itself to be a hologram, projecting a blue silhouette of a figure.

She couldn't make out its features, other than it seems to have horns, is tall, seem to be wearing a coat, and is grinning at her.

"Why hello there… ", The figure spoke.

The mere mention of her name shook her. There are many thoughts running in her name. Like how does this mysterious person know her name? Who is this person? And What does it want?

"A sudden surprise, isn't it? Xahahahahahahaha!" The figure laughed, "I'll get to the point, my name is Simffuring, infamous mob boss and pirate in the universe. You may not know about my reputation, but I'm fully aware you know about the Black Hole mercenaries gang, don't you?"

"Wait what?"

"Sure you do, don't ya. Well I'm just calling because I heard my son got beaten up by one of your friends. Someone who goes by the name of Reg".

"Hold up, you know him?"

"Know him? Of course I do! Xahahahahahahahaha! " He continues, "I'm aware he kicked my boy a**! Xahahahahahaha! Anyways, I just want to inform you specifically because I particularly claim you, the boy, and those around them as responsible for my son's injury. And you know how much I hate seeing that sweet lad get bloody beaten".

"Hey! It's not our fault for your stupid son getting hurt. They were the one-"

"Now you listen here, child. I'm giving you two options. You and your friends could either meet up with me so we could settle this civilized or I'll come after you, especially that boy. What do you say, Xahahahahahahaha!"

Ryuko scowls, yelling back at him. Even though she knows full well enough about the danger unfolding; At the same time, she doesn't want to deal with it now. For the sake of herself and her friends, importantly, "Let me tell you something. I don't care what you want, I am not going to come for you!"

"Child, you realize how dangerous this is right? You don't want to mess with me, you know. Especially some of my kind".

"Well I don't care. Throw everything at me! But leave my friends out of this, understand?!"

There was a long pause at that moment.

The figure halted. His grin didn't show and Ryuko stood there, awaiting for a response.

After a long second of waiting, he finally replied. This time bringing out his grin again, "Alright then, that's fine by me. Just to let you know, I'm going to be a lot busy. So don't expect anything to happen from me. However, expect some unexpected turmoil to come in your way".

After he said that, the hologram dispersed. The child turned and walked off, disappearing in the darkness.

Ryuko stood there in silence. She already knew danger was unfolding later. There were a lot of things concerning her thoughts.

But instead of the coward of fear within her, she was fully determined for anything.

---

Back on the train, everyone from the Blood Bastards gather in the diner room to discuss the main topic at hand. That being, the right chosen for the position in power of team captain.

The waiting is the most anticipated for Stan, telling to himself, "Oh god, oh god, please pick me, please pick me!"

Robotnik notices and remarks, "It better be me".

"Okay, after gathering the votes from some of you all", Emily said, sitting at the front table and holding a box, containing the vote paper, "It's time to see who's our pick for team captain!"

"Heh, clearly it's going to be me, guys", Hades nudge his arm near Dust, "I can totally feel it".

Emily proceeds to pull out one paper, "One vote for….Mahiru".

This surprises Mahiru, "What?"

It even stunned Stan for a bit, "Uhhhh, whatever. Someone must've stuff in their vote. Talk about self-absorb, am I right?"

"Another vote for Mahiru".

"Hmmm, not really liking where this is going", Hades remarked.

"Three votes for Mahiru and", Emily said, then opening the box and seeing most of the votes seem to cast toward the same person, "Huh….guess it's been decided. Mahiru is our new team captain!"

Everyone claps and praises Mahiru, who was more personally and deeply shock by the revelation, "Wait, wait ,wait, wait, what?!"

"Congratulations!" Tiff said, "Your our new team captain!"

Stan stood there for a moment, until he decided, "Yeah, I'm done with this sh*t. F*ck ya'll".

00000000000000000000000000000000

"Ok, so I didn't make it in", Stan Smith confessed, "But that doesn't stop me from still trying. At least I try. I try my best god damn it!"

Stan then broke down crying.

00000000000000000000000000000000000

"WHAAAAT!" Hades engulf into flames until calmed himself down and composed himself again, then he asked everyone while approaching a bewilder Mahiru, "Guys, guys, come on. No offense guys, but her? You guys decided to pick her? I mean, she wasn't even competing for that title, come on!"

"Well she did try to help out in some part", Dust said, with Fidget nodding.

"And maintain stability", Blue Pearl pointed out.

"Not to mention", Tiff reminded, "She didn't try to prioritize her own goal unlike you!"

Hades glanced at her with a firing eye, making her stop out of fear.

"Okay I'll stop….talking now".

"Let's be real here" Hades continued, "I'm literally a god! Like, a legit god with fire and the hoo haw! Isn't that enough to guarantee me as team captain? I own Mount Oly-I mean, sooner or later, I'll own it, but currently I own the Underworld!"

"Sorry Hades", Emily told him, "But it's been decided. Mahiru is our new team captain".

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000

"IIIIIIIIIDDDDDDIIIIIIIOOOOOOOTS!" He exclaimed, nursing into flames, screaming, "Those…numbskull! After everything I had to offer about myself! They…they! Okay, okay, I'm cool. So I didn't get in. That's fine. That's totally fine by me".

00000000000000000000000000000000000000

At the elimination area, the Bloody Bastards gather there as Chris stands in front of the stand.

Both Stan, Robotnik, and Hades sat next to each other in utter bitterness.

"I can't believe I lost", Stan said to himself, "Losing to a…a..girl!"

"I still can't believe it", Robotnik confesses, "I work all this time for them and this is how they repay me? Unbelievable!"

"This is totally bogus", Hades said, "I cannot believe they go with her of all people? Dang it! If only there's a way. If only there's a way where somehow I could control my own team, separated from her!"

Hades thought for a moment, until he finally came up with an idea in his head, "Waaaaait, I get it".

"Welcome to your first elimination night", Chris announced, "Where the losers get to stay, while the bigger loser gets to go home. Each of you will be given Cinnamon buns. Whoever gets one, gets to stay. As for those who don't…well, you get to leave through the Portal of shame!"

Chris pointed at the door, opening up to reveal a black and white swirl rip.

"Now I would usually go through a rundown on who's safe and who isn't…but that would be too long so I'll just say who isn't safe. Zoro and Mr. Frog".

Mr. Frog gave off a worried face, while Zoro sat there without any concern.

"Mr. Frog, you're here because you decided to eat all of the pest when it is stated not to", Chris Mclean explained, "Not to mention, you swallow James gun".

"Uhhhh…that was…uhh….that was a complete accident", Mr. Frog confessed.

"And Zoro", He continues, "Your here because you got lost in the tunnels. Like, seriously. How did you manage to get lost?"

"Hey don't blame me. I was-"

"Zip it!" Chris said, "Anyways, the loser who's going home today is…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

…..

….Mr. Frog!"

"Oh god, f**king damn it", Mr. Frog exclaimed.

0000000000000000000000

"Zoro was too useful to be voted off", Mahiru confessed, "So we decided to vote off Mr. Frog. I mean, no offense to him but there is just something creepy about him. Not to mention, he did somewhat cost us a loss so there's that".

00000000000000000000000

"So got any last words before you depart?" Chris asked him.

Before Mr. Frog enter through the portal door, he turned and saw one last word to his fellow competitor, "Ok ummm…I just want to say ummmmm…f**k you and f**k all of you. I hope you all burn in hell, and I hope all of you were never born. So yeah, f**k you guys".

The reactions from the contestants weren't anything surprising, as none of them show any remorse or seem to care for the Frog fellow.

After he finished, he finally left through the portal, disappearing out of sight.

"Well that was an inspiring speech", Chris said, turning toward the camera, "Looks like we have a great start to this brand new season. Who will remain and continue to endure the action? And who will be the next to be eliminated out of this game? Found out next time on TOTAL! DRAMA!-"

Suddenly, an interruption has halted his line, as someone crashes down above.

Startling some, as the person coming out of the parachute net is none other than Courtney.

"Courtney! Your here", Chris said, "For some reason".

"Yes well, I would've arrived, if you hadn't left!"

"Wait, you know this girl?" Sanji asked the host.

"She's….one of the original cast".

"That's right, and I came here because I signed a new contract", She claimed, pulling out the sheets of paper and giving it to him.

"A new contract you say?" Chris asked.

"Yes. Which means, I'm allowed to be back. And this time, on my own terms. These include all sets of them listed in there. Thanks to one of your producers, though".

"Uh huh", Chris said, after reading the new contract that was made by his producers, he then proceeded to toss it out, "Welp, that's great to hear. We totally need a lot more interns on this train, so good for you".

"Yes why-wait, what? Intern?" Courtney asked, as Red eye came behind her and grabbed her by the arms, "But I signed the contract! I'm supposed to compete again!"

"True, but you didn't specify what you are returning as. You didn't even fill out the tiny check box", Chris replied, "Meaning, I can decide what you will be, and that is an intern!"

"No! This is totally unfair! Please, let me re-negotiate or something!" Courtney shouted, being carried away by Red eye.

"Heheh, should've read it more closely", Chris resumed, "Anyways, TRAINWRECK EXPRESS!"

---

The end...for the second chapter.

Man, was this a hard one to write. Probably should not have gone forward with the huge cast but oh well. What did you expect? But anyways, this was still fun to write. I hope everyone enjoys it. Granted, there were some contestants that didn't get much screen time or just pop out of nowhere.

But I tried my best. Try my very best to focus on more of the important stuff that will happen later on.

For example, Mahiru has finally been selected as team captain. Yay, probably betting everyone saw that one coming. Another thing to note is we get to see new alliances and new friendships popping up. Not to mention, new rivalry.

So anyways, what will happen next? Well, to give you guys a small preview, the next challenge will be our first challenge based on a popular show. And this show is called Squid Game. Yep, expect the cast having to endure such wonderful obstacles, which includes red light, green light, the cookie challenge, and the glass breaking. Only this time, it's Chris Mclean edition, and you all know how Chris handles these types of challenges.

Hopefully the next chapter isn't going to be much longer like this one.

And while that would be fun, we need to go through some...things first. As there's going to be our first bonus chapter coming soon.

So anyways, keep staying tuned. If anyone has a challenge idea, send it through PM or review. Good bye, and see ya soon. Oh, and Happy New Year everyone.