Before you all begin with today's episode, I've decided to stop making the Beginning Notes at every start of the episode. So expect Chris's recaps at the start of every episode.
That is all I have to say, and enjoy the chapter!
~Last time, on Total Drama Island!~
~Due to Caine's leadership and strategy against the Dodgeball Challenge. The Killer Bass completely wrecked the Screaming Gophers thanks to Eva's mad strength and sick acrobatics from a few surprising campers.~
~In the end, Caine convinced the Screaming Gophers to forfeit the challenge after hitting Noah's face with a mean curveball. It also led to Mr. Know-It-All being eliminated by the Gophers after being uncooperative to literally take a few hits for the team~
~This week's challenge will send another Camper on a trip to Loserville. Who will sink? And who will stay up float? Find out right now on Total. Drama. Island!~
The next morning, Courtney wakes up and stretches her arms around. But she would shift her attention to a certain racket she's hearing. Apparently, Wednesday was looking beneath every bunk in their cabin, and the rest of the girls were watching her, especially Bridgette, as it was her bunk that was currently being searched.
"Wednesday? Have you been looking around people's bunks all morning?" Courtney asked,
"Yes," Wednesday replied, not batting an eye at Courtney,
"Why?" Bridgette asked,
"Someone was here," Wednesday revealed, still not batting an eye. Though it caused Katie and Sadie to gasp with wide eyes,
"How could you tell?" Courtney asked, concerned but skeptical of the girl's claim,
"My highly-trained olfactory sense had picked up the faint whiff of neroli and bergamot," Wednesday revealed as she straightened her posture after finding nothing under Bridgette's bunk and finally turning to Courtney's direction,
"Um..." Courtney hummed in confusion, and so did the other girls in the cabin,
"If you want your simple minds to grasp what I mean. Neroli and Bergamot are primarily used for fragrance and skincare. I've already exempted everyone in this cabin since none of you possessed any products that match the two aforementioned scents," Wednesday deducted.
"That's... Quite considerate of you to label us out, but why bring up fragrances and skincare exactly?" Courtney questioned,
"Because the whiff of these two components is something I'd find in a brand of hand lotion," Wednesday revealed, and this caused quite a shock among the girls of the Killer Bass.
"Are you saying that some creep was here in our cabin?" Eva questioned with a disapproving frown, and her knuckles cracking,
"I didn't say anything about a creep. But yes, someone was indeed hiding in our cabin the other night," Wednesday stated neutrally,
"Oh, this won't stand!" Courtney opposed and stomped the floorboard once. It even cracked upon impact, "If some boy is sneaking around our cabin without our notice. They've got another thing coming!"
But before any action could be made, they soon heard the blare of a loudspeaker along with Chris' voice, "All right, campers! Enough, beauty sleep! Time to show us what you're made of!"
Courtney remained infuriated but took a deep breath to calm down before declaring to her fellow cabinmates, "This search of yours isn't over Wednesday. We'll find who snuck in, and we'll deal with them personally."
Thus, everyone left the cabin, with Wednesday being the last to shut the door.
CONFESSIONAL - WEDNESDAY
"Though I have a clear guess of who this trespasser may be. It's often interesting to learn more about my opponents and their behavior," Wednesday admitted.
Everyone would gather at some stage that Chris set up, and the host would stand front stage. Well, almost everyone, as Wednesday was nowhere to be seen with the Killer Bass...
"Are we gonna see a musical? I love musicals. Especially the ones with singing and dancing, heh..." Lindsay inquired while reminiscing on her own time,
"Gwen! Saved you a seat," Trent called over and patted an empty spot beside him. Gwen smiled a little and sat next to him, though Cody tried to act cool in her eyes, and sat next to Trent. Though he would fall in between the bleachers, neither Trent nor Gwen seemed to notice.
Caine sat with one foot above his knee, but soon felt a tap on his shoulder, "Hey, Caine,"
"Yes, Courtney?" Caine inquired as he turned to him,
"Listen... Did any of the boys in your cabin happen to awake or go out last night?" Courtney questioned,
"No, after 10 PM. Everyone was fast asleep and not once did I hear the door squeak," Caine replied, "Is there a problem?"
"Well... Wednesday said that someone was inside our cabin that night, and she also mentioned something about smelling someone's hand lotion. We're really on edge since then," Courtney expressed,
"Hmm... If I've got some time on my hands, I'll talk to the guys about it. See if they've been in the cabins or not," Caine told.
"Thank you," Courtney expressed with gratitude,
"Speaking of Wednesday, where is she?" Caine inquired,
"Oh, she's..." Courtney turned to the seats and found that Wednesday was nowhere to be seen. She looked around the area and there was no sign of her before asking Bridgette, who sat next to her, "Hey, have you seen Wednesday when we left the cabin?"
"No, why?" Bridgette inquired,
Courtney scratched her head and wondered where she could've gone. She could've gone far, given that she was with them from the cabin to here. Caine, on the other hand, chose not to concern himself with their team's attendance, "We'll find Wednesday after Chris tells us about today's challenge."
"Welcome, campers, to our brand new deluxe state-of-the-art outdoor amphitheater!" Chris said, "This week's challenge is a summer camp favorite. A talent contest!"
"Yes! Awesome!" Owen expressed as he rose from his seat,
"Each team has eight hours to pick three of their most talented campers." Some of the campers were excited since they were eager to show off their best talents on live television. At the same time, the rest, like Gwen and Eva, weren't interested in the slightest. "These three will represent them in the show tonight. Sing, dance, juggle. Anything goes, as long as it's legal."
The last part would make Duncan snap his fingers out of sarcastic disappointment as Chris continued, "They'll also be judged by none other than our talent resident, former DJ, VJ, and rap legend, Graaaaand Master Chef! Who will show his approval via... The Chef-o-Meter,"
A wooden spoon with Chef's face on the head appeared on a TV screen that was set up near the top of the stage and consisted of ten bars that blinked a few times to see how each performance was graded. "The team that loses will send another camper home tonight. Good luck!"
Chris then left as the Killer Bass and Screaming Gophers split up to figure out who was performing for tonight's challenge. But Caine would quickly leave for a matter before partaking in the challenge.
MEANWHILE...
Wednesday had been all this time somewhere by the cabins, searching from top to bottom. But the cabins she was searching for weren't the Killer Bass but the Screaming Gophers. Finding that certain person who snuck into the girls' cabins is still a priority over whatever Chris has in store for her.
"I knew I'd find you here," Wednesday stopped and turned towards the door where the boys of the Screaming Gophers sleep. Though she had expected Caine to find her as he was leaning by the door frame with arms crossed, "Had it been one of the Gophers, they would've cornered you with questions, before you'd even walked out the door,"
"And what about you? Do you intend to scold me like some immature girl who doesn't follow your lead?" Wednesday questioned,
"No, I intend to ask you if you've found clues to this mysterious trespasser of yours here," Caine questioned,
"Nothing so far, not even the whiff of that hand lotion here," Wednesday revealed,
"Then stop searching in a wider area and focus on our cabins after we've finished today's challenge. If you take things slowly, you may find what you're looking for. Especially when this is tied to that prank Harold experienced the other day," Caine clarified,
"I thought Duncan was responsible for that one," Wednesday presumed.
"Not when he's been sleeping after 85 hours of sleep deprivation, and he's not one to lie when it comes to his pranks," Caine clarified, "Trust me, I've talked with him and swore that he had nothing to do with Harold. Though he wished he did, and wanted to thank the one responsible,"
Wednesday may look unconvinced, but there was logic to be found in his words. Hence why she sighed through her nostrils and stopped her search around the Screaming Gophers' cabins, "What's today's challenge?"
"Talent show, Chris gave us eight hours to pick three who'd represent each team. You can back out of it if you're not interested," Caine revealed,
"Good to know," Wednesday replied, and the two left the cabins before anyone found them. Well... All except the culprit hiding beneath Killer Bass' cabins and watching over the two as they returned to the Killer Bass...
SCREAMING GOPHERS
The first to show off their talents was Owen, who claimed to be able to burp the alphabet in one go. To demonstrate this feat for everyone, he chugged from a large bottle of soda. All the while, Gwen and Trent conversed with each other, "You gonna audition?"
"Doubtful," Gwen replied, "You should be in this, though, I heard you the other night by the docks. You were really good."
Heather eyed the two briefly, then turned to Owen after he finished chugging down the bottle. Then he started burping the alphabet rather quickly, "A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z!"
The boys of the Screaming Gophers cheered for Owen, while the girls looked unamused or looked at the boys. Owen then shared a high five with Trent, "That was excellent!"
"Ugh, you're not going to that on a contest. That's disgusting!" Heather reprimanded,
"You know how hard it is to burp the alphabet in one go?" Trent defended as he wrapped his arm around Owen's shoulder,
"I can also toot Beethoven's 5th!" Owen added and bent down to stuck his butt out,
Needless to say, all the girls turned away and begged not to do it, while Gwen chose to leave the cabins as she stood up. Though Heather would take notice of her departure, "Where are you going?"
"Anywhere that's not here," Gwen told, and not looking back. Though Heather hatched a plan of her own...
KILLER BASS
Everyone was together again, it was time for every willing participant in the Challenge to show what they could do. As for the acting judge, Caine made a nomination rather than handle it himself, "Courtney, before we learn about our talents, is best suited for the contest. Think you could assess everyone else's?"
"You want me to judge our teammates? Why not do it yourself?" Courtney inquired,
"Everyone deserves a shot at being a leader. So consider this task as your way of gaining experience on who is capable and who isn't capable. All while I assess your overall performance before you take your turn on showing your talent," Caine elaborated, "Once you're finished with that task, I will give you my overall opinion of how you handled the team."
For once, Courtney felt burdened even though everyone had silently but unanimously agreed that Caine was the one who called the shots. However, given her mindset and experience as a CIT, she took a deep breath and made her decision as firm as her stance, "You can count on me!"
Caine only nodded; their teams got along with his decision, and he stayed by the sidelines while Courtney took the reins of leadership for the day. The first tryout for the challenge was Katie and Sadie, dancing to some pop music before performing a split from Sadie and a pose from Katie together. Though a few winced at the last part of their performance, the two girls would stand up to get an opinion,
"Well?" Katie asked, and Sadie finished with the whole question, "What do you guys think?"
"Um... Well..." Bridgette slowly began as she tried to think of a proper response without hurting the girls' feelings, "You certainly have... good rhythm with each other."
"Does that mean we're in?" Both girls excitedly asked,
"Uh..." Courtney trailed off as she wanted to give her most appropriate answer. Eventually, she chose her safest reply, "Why don't we let the others get a chance? Then we'll let you know if you two can get the part."
"Okay!" The two girls said in unison,
Courtney sighed at the response she gave, then turned to Caine for his opinion. What she received was a light shake of his head, and it lowered her confidence by a level.
"Who's next?" Bridgette asked,
"Oh, I will. Just give me some time to change," DJ volunteered and went to get changed. A few minutes later, DJ returned wearing a male ballet uniform, carrying a baton with a long pink ribbon attached.
With some music from the radio box, DJ demonstrated his ribbon dancing skills with excellent coordination and movement while whirling the ribbon around to synchronize with the music's rhythm. By the time he finished, most of his team clapped upon his brilliant performance, while the rest were just neutral about it.
"That was great, DJ!" Courtney said with approval, and DJ nodded before letting another member of their team, "Whose next?"
"Me!" Bridgette volunteered, "I can stand on my hands for twenty minutes. Watch!"
Bridgette would do just that and stand on her hands and walk up front. Though everyone was slightly grinning as she turned, Courtney wasn't impressed, "Okay, that'd be cute if you were a monkey. I just don't think it's quite what we're looking for. Next!"
Bridgette simply shrugged before going back on her own two feet, and Harold would walk up to everyone. But before he could say or do anything, Courtney immediately yelled before he could even breathe, "Next!"
Harold immediately slumped his head down and walked back to his team, though Courtney would hear Caine sigh and his hand covering his eyes in disappointment. Another major blow to Courtney's confidence, but she takes a quick breath before letting the next person show off their talent.
CONFESSIONAL - COURTNEY
"After Caine handed me the reins of being a leader, I thought I'd have it easy since I have CIT Experience. But each time I hear his sighs and see his expressions..." Courtney slumped down before looking disappointed in herself, " I think I messed up... Did I just say that on air?!"
CONFESSIONAL - COURTNEY
"I WANT THAT TAPE BACK! GIVE ME THE TAPE! OH! HOW DO YOU OPEN THIS THING!" Courtney yelled as she was up close and prying the camera apart,
SCREAMING GOPHERS
With Ballet Music, Heather demonstrates her ballet skills while wearing her ballerina outfit. From her light footwork, smooth and refined movement, and the last part of her performance, jumping high and landing on one foot, raised her leg straight to her team, and finished with a stretched hand at them.
The Screaming Gophers clapped for Heather's performance, "Thank you,"
But when she glanced at Lindsay and Beth, she cleared her throat once and signaled them to do their part, "Oh, I vote for Heather to be part of the contest!"
"I second that!" Beth followed,
"Guys, that's so sweet," Heather said with false modesty, "Okay, so I guess I'm in. Why doesn't everyone take five?"
Everyone walked away for a break, but before Lindsay left with Beth. She had been held by Heather and pulled her close, "I need you to do something. Can you keep a secret?"
"Oh my gosh, definitely!" Lindsay replied while nodding, "My sister got diarrhea once on a date, and I had to bring her toilet paper because the restaurant was all out, and she was stuck in the bathroom, and I've never told a soul."
Not a moment later, Lindsay soon realized that she was being filmed on live television, "Uh... Oops... Sorry, Paula,"
"Gwen's up to something serious," Heather informed Lindsay as she handed the blonde a walkie-talkie. "I want you to follow her and report back to me."
KILLER BASS
A couple of minutes later, almost every willing participant showed their talents to the team. Though she tried to convince the unwilling members of the team to partake in the challenges, Duncan outright refused since he was clear in not partaking in any talent show, Eva's talent mainly consists of strength which Courtney outright refused to have, and Wednesday strictly refuses since she isn't one to reveal talents to the public.
As for Caine, Courtney refrained from approaching him due to low confidence, but he told his team that after she's shown her talent, he'll show his in the end. By then, the second person whose talent stood out was Geoff with his incredible skateboarding skills.
"Guess we've got our second participant then? Who do you think is our third, Courtney?" Bridgette asked, and all eyes were on her. This caused some discomfort for Courtney as if she'd been put in a corner by her team, especially when Sadie and Katie had expectations of being part of their team's representation.
The only thing she could do in this situation was shoot a pleading look in Caine's direction.
This prompted the latter to sigh through his nose and approach everyone, "We'll discuss that after I've talked to Courtney for a bit. In the meantime, Geoff, DJ, take some time to practice your talents. You'll never know when you'll need,"
"Sure thing, Man," DJ replied, and Courtney would follow Caine to the back of the Killer Bass' cabins.
Once both were alone, Courtney deeply sighed while she had been hugging herself for some time, "Go on, tell me where I did wrong?"
"That's for you to tell, Courtney. My task is to assess your overall performance as a leader," Caine replied, "But try taking your time. There's no pressure in admitting your faults to me,"
Courtney took a deep breath to calm her mind, concentrate on what she did wrong, and list the mistakes she's made as a Leader, "I've kept Sadie and Katie's hopes up for nothing..."
Caine nodded as he gestured for her to continue,
"Denied Harold a chance to compete,"
Still, he lets her continue...
"Failed to convince Duncan and Wednesday to compete."
"And...?" Caine mouthed with full expectation of the last fault of her leadership,
"I fell under the pressure of everyone..." Courtney admitted while rubbing her elbow and keeping her head down, "Did I miss anything else?"
"No. Rather, you've pointed out every fault you've made with yourself as a leader. Therefore, there's nothing else I can add to your performance," Caine clarified, though he didn't show any signs of disappointment in her faults. Just neutral while Courtney continues to slump down on her faults.
"I know... I must disappoint you," Courtney stated, expecting some humble advice from the alleged leader of the Killer Bass.
"Not at all," But she was proven wrong when Caine spoke these words rather than some advice, "In fact, it's what I expected after what I saw in the first challenge of this show. You chose chance over challenge, upset the team with your boasting of CIT Training, and lacked proper communication to know who you're working with. Why I chose to make you the leader for the challenge is to make you aware of these faults yourself."
"So... You aren't taking the role from me?" Courtney suspected,
"Of course not, I've nominated you as leader for this challenge. It's your task to see it through," Caine said, "Only after the challenge is done, then I will tell you how you fared in this challenge. Keep your chin up, there's still much to do today.
With that, Courtney smiled at these words over some advice she fully expected from someone experienced, and the two returned to the team to show off their talents. Courtney, with a violin in hand, played rather well, which earned a lot of praise from the team.
"That was really good, Courtney." Bridgette praised,
"Thank you, Bridgette," Courtney returned with a smile, "But before we settle on me being the third, how about we give Caine a shot at it?"
"Of course, I never back down from a promise I've made," Caine told, "But first, give me a few minutes. I've got some gear to grab,"
SCREAMING GOPHERS
"Are you sure this is safe?" Heather asked with a bit of a concerned tone as she and most of her teammates watched as Beth twirled around a pair of batons...that were on fire.
"It's okay," Beth reassured everyone as she kept twirling. "I've been practicing."
Everyone would take cover behind some wooden tables, and Beth would whirl them around before throwing them in the air. Which would immediately whirl out of control, "Uh oh,"
"RUN!" Owen yelled, and everyone scampered from the fiery batons, even Beth. Moments later, a flaming baton lands hot on the ground and explodes in the area where the brace-wearing girl was last standing,
Then she sheepishly admits to everyone of her faults, "I kinda missed the catching class,"
"Uh, guys..." Trent called out, and he pointed his fingers at a bush where the second baton fell and lit it up ablaze, "That bush is on fire."
Fortunately, Justin came to the rescue as he emerged from the shed with a fire extinguisher and a pair of sunglasses on hand, rushed to the flaming bush, and extinguished it with style. What followed is Leshawna handing him a bottle of water, and Justin ripping his shirt, dousing the water down his mouth, and a drop lands onto his pecs. Evaporating it rather quickly...
"Okay. So I think it's me, Trent, and...Justin." Heather decided, as she, the other girls, and even Owen were swooned by his hotness, "Any objections?"
Almost everyone shook their heads in response and settled on who was competing for the challenge. What followed was the rest of their hours practicing their respective talents for the challenge, then Gwen returned with Cody following behind him.
Though she briefly stopped to see the burnt crater just as she was passing Trent, "I won't even ask,"
Lindsay would take notice of Gwen's return and tapped on Heather's shoulder. They see Gwen entering the girls' side of the cabins with a book and Cody trying his best to charm the goth girl by opening the door for her, "Look! The first hook-up of the season!"
"Oh yeah. We're going at it big time." Gwen sarcastically told, "I just need a swim to cool off."
Gwen would harshly slam the door closed. Moments later, she'd open the door in her swimsuit and hit Cody for being in front of the girls' door. She'd make her way towards the docks for a swim, then Trent took a break from his guitar playing, "Gwen, wait up! I'll come with you,"
"Sure!" Gwen said with a minor enthusiastic tone in her voice, though she caught on with her uncharacteristic tone, "I mean...whatever."
As those two left together, Lindsay was about to follow them. But Heather stopped her by tugging on her wrist, "You. Stay here. We've got a diary to find,"
KILLER BASS
Caine would leave for a few minutes and then return with a rolled-up leather case in hand. Once he unlatched the lock, he unveiled a set of throwing knives to his team, and most widened their eyes upon the sight of gleaming sharpness...
What he would do first is take five knives from the case, pull a handkerchief from his pocket, and blindfold himself before his team. After a breath, Caine started tossing his knives up and started juggling them while a few of his teammates held their breaths at the potential harm these knives would cause to him.
Yet, Caine remained focused on his talent and dared his teammates, "Are any of you brave enough to stand by the cabin wall?"
Everyone glanced at each other and felt utterly nervous about what he was thinking about his talent. But the only one who'd be willing to volunteer was Wednesday as she steps forward and everyone else had their eyes set on her, "Me..."
"Then stand at the ready, Wednesday," Caine insisted, and Wednesday went towards the wall,
After a few minutes of intense silence, Caine tossed his knives further up, grabbed the first knife that came down, and threw it by the wall near the side of Wednesday's left shoulder. The other knives would follow suit and outline the sides of her shoulders, above the shoulders, and the last was thrown nearly above her head.
Wednesday's first reaction was to grasp the knife from above her head and pull it out to examine the tip while Caine removed his blindfold. Upon further inspection, she'd shift her expressionless eyes at him, "Not one drop of blood. But an impressive feat, nonetheless,"
"Thank you, Wednesday," Caine thanked, and he soon heard Duncan's whistle before he and the rest clapped for his daring talent.
"That was some mad skills you've got, Caine. Think you could teach me that?" Harold asked,
"I would, but this kind of practice takes years to master, years longer with a blindfold. Also, I don't see you as a guy who can throw knives so easily," Caine remarked,
"With twig-like arms like that, I can see that too," Duncan rudely remarked, and it earned a disapproving frown from Courtney and Harold himself.
"But my skills and Duncan's comment aside. I won't be partaking in the challenge," Caine clarified, which brought a few questioning looks on the team. Then he revealed his intentions to all of them, "For it's Courtney who'll take the third spot in the challenge."
"Me?!" Courtney exclaimed, "But why?"
"I have my reasons," Caine admitted, "But if anything happens with you, Geoff, or DJ. I'll take over as substitute. Just have some faith in yourselves,"
"He's got a point," DJ supported as he turned to Courtney with a smile, and so did some of the Killer Bass.
For that, Courtney smiled as well and nodded. All that remained were the remaining hours used for practice. But while those three go and practice and the rest go about to do their business elsewhere, Wednesday would approach Caine after it was just the two of them, "This has been your intention, isn't it?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," Caine calmly denied,
"You're molding Courtney as your scapegoat should our team fail the challenge. Then you'll be one short of the threat of the competition," Wednesday summarized.
"Now, why would I go so far as to do something so heartless? I'm not Heather, you know," Caine told,
"You aren't, but your plan stands out like one of hers," Wednesday clarified,
"If that's how you see it, I won't stop you nor convince you otherwise," Caine insisted, "What matters is the outcome of my actions bears fruit. Even you are part of it,"
"I won't be so easily swayed by your intentions," Wednesday told,
"Good, it makes the challenge all the more worthwhile," Caine stated,
They gaze into each other's eyes for some time. Then Wednesday seemingly relented from his gaze and walked away while Caine just smiled behind her back and shook his head a few times. What he does next is usual free time...
CONFESSIONAL - WEDNESDAY
"He's as slippery as he is mysterious with his plans. Even I can't tell what he has in store for the team," Wednesday told while holding her umbrella, "But should he become a threat to me,"
A simple push of the shaft, the umbrella is soon revealed to be a long blade hidden within plainsights, "I won't be so easily taken down."
CONFESSIONAL - CAINE
"So Wednesday believes I'm such a threat to this competition. Thinking that I'd throw a camper under the bus after we fail a challenge," Caine said while balancing a knife on one finger, "I'd be lying if I wasn't expecting it. But as I've said to her before,"
Caine soon held his knife by the handle and rested the blade onto his thigh, "It makes the challenge all the worthwhile..."
KILLER BASS
By the amphitheater, some of the Killer Bass are present with DJ playing cards with Caine and Duncan to pass whatever time they have left. Bridgette, Eva, and Harold are watching their game, Geoff fiddling around with his skateboard wheels, and Courtney is still practicing with her violin. What's surprising with the latter is that Wednesday is close and listening to Courtney's music, even giving a few pointers, without stressing the CIT.
"So, can you really stand on your hands for twenty minutes?" Geoff asked, he's curious if it was possible.
"Wanna bet I can't?" Bridgette dared,
"Oh, you're on!" Geoff agreed,
"I'll take a piece of that action," Harold joined in,
"I don't believe it," Eva doubted,
"I agree with her. It's virtually impossible," DJ followed with Eva's claim,
"I've lived with someone who could sleep upside down for an entire night. So, twenty minutes isn't really much of a stretch in my opinion," Caine told, and it earned Wednesday's interest towards his history as she briefly glanced at him and but soon returned to watch Courtney's violin play.
"Alright, Ante up!" Bridgette dared, and almost everyone wagered their bets with either candy or money in their pockets. As for the timer, Caine would read his watch and wait for the seconds hand to reach the top, "Twenty Minutes starts... Now!"
Bridgette then stands on her hands as she dared, while everyone either grins or laughs at the sight. Courtney stopped playing to briefly glance at her team's commandry before continuing with her solo, and Wednesday carefully watched her and Bridgette.
Soon, one of Bridgette's legs gets tangled up with one of the ropes, and she struggles to continue walking on her hands. And by tugging on the rope, the knots undo themselves and fall onto one of the hanging spotlights.
Courtney immediately stopped playing to look up as it fell right above her, but she had tackled out of the way. Everyone gasped upon this sight, and Bridgette quickly got back up on her feet, "Aw crap!"
"Ow..." Courtney groaned, then looked up to see that it was Wednesday who had prevented any harm from coming into the CIT as she got up, "Thanks,"
Wednesday nodded, stood up, and Courtney followed. But when she turned to the fallen spotlight, she soon learned that her violin had not made it when it had been snapped into two pieces in the middle, "NOOO!"
Courtney immediately removed the spotlight and caressed her broken violin onto her arms. Moments later, she turned to Bridgette, who looked guilt-ridden by what she had done by accident, "You. You killed my violin."
"I didn't mean to," Bridgette reasoned, while most of the Killer Bass present took a step back from the impending argument, "There must be something we could do,"
"I doubt a violin could be fixed in this condition," Wednesday bluntly told, "If not at all."
"WAAAAHHHH!" Courtney cried and ran off with her broken violin,
Caine would feel bad about Courtney's plight, but he had matters here and placed his hand onto Bridgette's shoulder, "Give her some time and space, Bridgette. She'll calm down, eventually."
"Even if that's true, it's still my fault. If we lose this challenge," Bridgette clarified, then sighed as she finished her sentence, "Guess I'll be the one going home today."
"Only if we lose, Bridgette. But if we win, try and make up with Courtney after she's calmed down," Caine told, "It may not be much, but it's a start for mending a bond between you two."
"Ok..." Bridgette reluctantly agreed and will try to make amends with Courtney after the challenge is over. That aside, Caine would take on Courtney's role for the talent show while DJ and Geoff continued onward with their practices. Though Wednesday remains cautious of Caine's actions, especially when he goes to the cabin to pick up his knives...
SCREAMING GOPHERS
Standing by the girls' side of the cabin, Heather would go inside the room after ordering Lindsay, "You stand here and remember, if you see Gwen coming, warn me."
"Ok!" Lindsay replied, and Heather went about her search for Gwen's book,
She would remain outside the cabin for the past few minutes, scanning the area for Gwen. But as soon as she spotted the goth, she was soaking wet and utterly irritated by something at the dock.
"Gwen! Hi! What are you doing here, outside the cabin, Gwen?!" Lindsay exclaimed quite sheepishly as she was trying to warn Heather,
"Trying to get into the cabin?" Gwen answered, already irritated as she is now, "But I have martial arts training."
"Ohh, you're trying to get into the cabin! That's very interesting!" Lindsay replied, which only made the goth girl growl at her. Though Gwen moves past Lindsay, the latter keeps her back, "Wait. Stay here, we can...get tans together. And you could totally use one."
Gwen would swat Lindsay's hands away and glare at the blond girl, "Are you gonna move? Or do I have to throw you out of my way?"
"You can try." Lindsay dared while donning a karate pose at the goth, "But I have martial arts training."
Gwen's only response was to give the blond girl a death glare. This was enough to make the blond girl fearfully step back, and relent on holding her back any further, "Okay, you can go in..."
Still irritated, Gwen went into the cabin, and Lindsay looked inside. "Look, Gwen's back!"
"Hey, Gwen. Did you have a good swim?" Heather questioned,
Gwen looked around the cabin suspiciously as there was stuff and luggage tossed around, and Lindsay's deliberate attempt to keep her from entering, "What's going on in here?"
Heather merely faked a yawn before admitting, "Nothing, just resting before the big show. Are you always so paranoid?"
"Yeah. Really," Lindsay agreed, and left with Heather. Leaving Gwen to narrow her eyes at them...
LATER THAT DAY...
With the contest on the rise, the six chosen campers to partake in the challenge were present backstage. On the Gophers, they've chosen Justin, Trent, and Heather, while on the Bass were DJ, Caine, and Geoff. However, Courtney and Bridgette were present and next to Caine while the latter was double-checking his equipment.
"Caine, I don't doubt your skills with those things. But don't think they're a bit... extreme. For a talent show?" Courtney inquired,
"People have told me that, but I assure you that I have everything under control. I even took it up to Chris and confirmed that it's legal as long as no one gets killed," Caine admitted, "If something like that does happen, I'll do more than quit the show."
"Okay... We'll put your word into it." Courtney trusted,
"Just try not to get someone hurt?" Bridgette told,
"Of course he won't," the three turned to the voice, and they saw Wednesday with a large case on her back, "Because I'm taking over his act."
The three were in disbelief by Wednesday's sudden intervention, then it was Courtney who was first to question her motives, "I thought you didn't want to partake in the challenge?"
"I was, but I've chosen otherwise. I can't let Caine do all the work for the team," Wednesday nonchalantly stated.
The three stared at Wednesday for a brief period, then turned to each other. They could refuse her since this was a last-minute decision, but they weren't sure of whether or not Wednesday could take no for an answer. Even a brief glance at the girl showed how firm her choice was. But in the end, it was Courtney's call since she's still the leader of the Killer Bass for today, and she owes Wednesday for saving her from a drop of a spotlight.
"Caine, can you save your knife skills for some other time?" Courtney requested, "I think Wednesday can handle her part well in the challenge with... What is it that you do?"
"I play the cello," Wednesday revealed,
"Right, you wouldn't mind, would you?" Courtney inquired,
Caine simply stared at Wednesday's emotionless eyes, then he just smiled before replying, "Not at all, just try to do your best out there."
"If I didn't, I'd only look bad," Wednesday clarified, and Caine tucks away his knives for today. But they would soon have an unpleasant encounter with Heather as she approached the four.
"What do you want, Heather?" Bridgette questioned,
"Not much, I just wanted to say to Bridgette how sorry I am about the accident," Heather told with a tone that Bridgette and Courtney detest, "I guess you're going to get your fifteen seconds of fame after all, huh?"
"What is that supposed to mean?" Bridgette questioned, feeling irritated in her presence already, while Caine and Wednesday just stared at the tutu-wearing girl,
"Oh, nothing. No one would sabotage their teammate. Unless they maybe felt threatened." Heather said while looking over her nails and not at the two girls,
Bridgette was about to say another word to Heather. Caine walked in between them, and her and Courtney's gaze was fixated on him. "Heather. Whatever scheme you have for us today, I suggest you shove it or I'll shove it down for you."
"Psh, whatever..." Heather said, and leaves them be,
"The nerve of that girl," Courtney rudely remarked,
"Let her be. At least for now," Caine stated, and the girls collectively agreed with him,
CONFESSIONAL – HEATHER
"What a bunch of losers," Heather said with an eye roll. "It's so easy, it's almost not fun…almost."
SHOWTIME
"It's the TDI Talent Extravaganza!" Chris announced as he stepped onto the stage, the moon shining brightly above everyone sitting and not competing in the contest. The exception among the Killer Bass was Bridgette, Caine, and Courtney, "Welcome to the very first Camp Wawanakwa…Talent Contest. Six campers will showcase their mad skills and desperately try not to humiliate themselves. First up for the Screaming Gophers…is Justin!"
The Screaming Gophers all cheered as Justin came out onto the stage with a rope and a green stool he set up. He would make several poses to show off various angles of his gorgeous body; a few were taken with pictures, and the finale of his performance was him sitting on his stool and pulling the rope, where he doused himself with water. The last part of his finale was showing off his flawless smile.
CONFESSIONAL – OWEN
"There are two syllables for hot: Jus and tin," Owen explained to the audience watching at home. "Man, that guy is just so hot I could kiss him!"
But in that moment, Owen realized what he had, "Because he's a good teammate! Oh! Why'd I say that?"
The confessional ends with Owen slapping the top of his forehead out of shame...
"Okay, I don't know what that was…but daaang. You got some moves, dude," Chris said, and the Chef-o-meter gives seven out of ten for his overall performance. "First up for the Killer Bass…make some noise for the big guy! DJ!"
The Killer Bass cheered for DJ as he stepped on stage. All was well as he began with his ribbon dance... Until said ribbon got itself tangled with DJ's leg and caused him to fall face first into the floor, making both teams wince and hiss at the brickhouse's blunder.
Though he had recovered, he was late after the music had ended, and Chris walked up on stage, "Dainty and yet masculine. Let's see what Grand Master Chef thinks."
Sadly, not so well as the Chef-o-Meter gave his performance a two out of ten, "Not much."
DJ slumped down by the results of his performance and walked off stage as Chris continued, "So, with two down and four acts to go, it's the Screaming Gophers…screaming ahead. Next on deck…Trent. Take it away, my bro."
Trent walked on stage with his guitar and a chair. Once he sat down, he had something to say before his performance: "This song goes out to someone special here at camp."
"~They say that we've only got summer,~"
"~And I say that's really a bummer.~"
"~But we'll swim in the sun and have lots of fun.~"
"~It'll just be the two of us.~"
"~Nothing to do but just hang.~"
"~So let me say only this, ~"
"~Stick around,~"
"~For just one kiss.~"
After Trent finished his piece, everyone, even the opposing team, couldn't help but clap for his overall performance. Even Bridgette, Caine, and Courtney couldn't deny how great it was as they clapped for him.
"Nice work! I'm liking your style, dude." Chris complimented, then the Chef-o-Meter gave a nine out of ten for his guitar performance, "And so does Grand Master Chef!".
As everyone kept clapping for Trent, he waved at everyone and the cameras. Then Chris decided to end Trent's appearance on stage himself, "All right, quit hogging my light, buddy,"
By pushing him off on the other end of stage, "Three down and three to go and the Killer Bass are totally sucking so far."
Once the clapping stopped, Caine let out a whistle to get the host's attention and gestured to him to cover over. After a brief discussion, the host nodded and returned to the center stage, "Well, it appears the Killer Bass had made a split-second decision of contenders. For our next contestant, showing off her Cello is Wednesday!"
As Wednesday walked on stage, the Killer Bass couldn't help but remain silent since the change was sudden, and they felt indifferent towards the foreigner on their team. But she cared little about their opinion as she sat down and readied her cello.
After a period of silence, she began to play, and those possessing a taste or familiarity with music recognized that it was a classical song. Vivaldi Four Seasons: Winter. But after a suspenseful start, Wednesday picked up pace, then came the jaw-dropping performance as she masterfully played each string with her bow. Even Chris wasn't immune to this since he didn't expect this kind of performance from her.
Once she finished the piece in its first movement, everyone was silent as they processed the performance in their minds. Then came the applause and whistling from both teams as they praised Wednesday's performance.
"Okay, now that was totally wicked!" Chris praised, and the Chef-o-Meter showed a ten out of ten points for her performance. "And you've rocked Chef's full approval. With a classic to boot."
CONFESSIONAL - TRENT
"While Wednesday did beat me by a point, I can't deny that it was good to hear classical music. Especially when it's played on a cello," Trent admitted with acknowledgement,
With that done, Wednesday stowed away her cello and returned to Bridgette, Caine, and Courtney's side. Though the latter had something to express with her overall performance, "That was so brilliant, Wednesday!"
"Yeah, and you scored a lot of points for us too," Bridgette told, "We might even have a chance in this challenge."
"Glad to know I've exceeded everyone's expectations," Wednesday nonchalantly admitted,
In that moment, Bridgette seized the opportunity for them. Especially when she saw everything with Caine's reaction, "Oh, you've done more than just that, Wednesday,"
"How so?" Wednesday inquired,
"Just ask Caine, I'm sure you'll like what he has to say," Bridgette insisted, and their eyes turned to him.
Though he felt a bit cornered by their stares, he chose to be honest with his opinion rather than cling to needless denial. "Your performance was truly phenomenal, Wednesday. As for the piece you've played, I can't help but feel some nostalgia out of it."
"Because it reminds you of home?" Wednesday presumed,
"It reminds me of my love for classical music since ten. Vilvaldi is good, Beethoven's still my favorite," Caine told.
"If that's what you say," Wednesday stated as she shrugged her shoulders, and went to return her cello. But not after revealing a piece of her own to them, "Though his 5th Symphony piques my interest,"
With that, Caine smiled upon hearing this, "Glad we have something in common."
Wednesday didn't offer a glance at him, but she did stay in the same spot for a slightly longer time than normal. Then she just left without another word said between them...
CONFESSIONAL - BRIDGETTE
"It may not look like it, but I can see a bit of progress between them," Bridgette told, "If I keep it up, I'm sure they'll closely find themselves at each other's company one day."
Before the two teams showed their final acts, there had been a commercial break to be made. But once that was over, Chris made his reintroduction, "Welcome back to TDI's Talent Extravaganza! And in a case of musical talent, Wednesday's sick cello brought the Bass to a total of 12 points while Gophers still reign the challenge with a whooping 16 points! Now, without further delay, here she is, for the leaders... Heather!"
Everyone clapped as Heather came on stage, and sat on a stool that Trent used in his earlier performance, "Originally, I was going to dance for you,"
With a cocky smirk on her lips, Caine had suspected dirty play from Heather's part, "But instead, I want to celebrate team spirit, with a collaboration,"
Gwen narrowed her eyes a bit and Heather soon pulled out a book. It took a moment to realize what it was and what her words meant, and it made her blood run cold, "She wouldn't..."
"So, with words by Gwen, performance by me, enjoy," Heather began, cleared her throat, and opened the goth's diary for the world to see and hear, "So I'm trying to ignore him, but he's just so cute. If they had custom ordered a guy to be a distraction for me here, it would have been McHottie,"
Lindsay gasped as she realized why Heather wanted to get Gwen's diary, Cody smirked as he seemed confident in the description, and Gwen felt like shrinking in her seat as Heather continued, "We just totally connect. He is pretty much the only person I can relate to here, and I know it's a cliche, but I love guys who play guitar,"
"Wait... I don't play guitar," Cody said as he and Trent turned to each other,
For Gwen, this was her breaking point as she covered her face and ran away from everyone present. Heather saw this and closed the diary with a smirk, "Thank you."
Caine, Courtney, and Bridgette glared at Heather. Then the first to express their distaste was Caine, "That was mighty low..."
"Yeah, even for her," Courtney added with pure bitterness,
"Seriously," Bridgette agreed,
The Chef-o-Meter then popped a total of three out of ten points as Chris came back on stage, "Well then, it's down to the final act of the night. Can Geoff and his rad stunts turn it around! I seriously doubt it. Let's find out,"
Geoff grins as he whirled his skateboard in the air and landed on it hard... Snapping the board in two, "Whoa... That kinda wrecks the ride,"
"Now what?!" Bridgette panicked as she looked at the two,
"Think you could do the final act, Caine?" Courtney inquired,
"I would, but Heather's act got me all bitter. So I'm out for another matter. As for the others, I seriously doubt any of them would play and win for the team..." Caine said, "Well... All except one..."
Caine gazed at a certain someone, the two girls widened their eyes when the person he was referring to was none other than Harold, who was standing near them.
"You can't be serious?" Courtney questioned as she and Bridgette cringed,
"At this point, it's all or nothing. Plus, he surprised you all with his skills at the Dodgeball Challenge. Who knows what other talents he may have in store for us all," Caine assured, "But that's your call, Courtney. Always have been,"
Courtney still felt unsure of this choice, given how risky they are with their current points. He was right, it was all and nothing, and she chose the former more confidently than usual, "Fine. Harold, go for us. Show us what you've got."
Harold nodded with a smile and went onto the stage. Though he blinked once, he soon went down to business by showcasing his beatboxing skills on the mic. He didn't stop to take a deep breath and kept going even while he made rapid movements. What finished his performance was the final word, "Booyah!"
Moments later, everyone from both teams roared in cheer while Bridgette, Caine, and Courtney went over and praised the ginger for his talent on stage.
"Wicked beatboxing dude!" Chris complimented as he came out on stage, then the Chef-o-Meter appeared with a ten out of ten points for Harold's performance. Rounding up all the points with the Gophers having 19 points and the Killer Bass with 22 points, "Check it out. Grand Master Chef has declared its winner. Even though they had the lead, the Killer Bass claimed victory for tonight's challenge!"
"You've certainly impressed us all, Harold. You've even impressed me in that regard," Caine complimented,
"Thanks, man," Harold said,
"And you know what, just let know more about what you're good at. We may never know if we'll need your skills in the next challenges," Courtney told, and the ginger just nodded
"And as for the Screaming Gopher. Pick your favorite loser, and I'll see you at the bonfire... for the third time in a row,"
CONFESSIONAL – HEATHER
"People thought I was mean to Gwen. Whatever. All I needed was four votes against Justin." Heather said with no amount of guilt for what she did to Gwen. "I simply did what I did with Tyler. Only this time I had Lindsay's vote as well. Izzy and especially Owen, just a piece of cake."
CONFESSIONAL – OWEN
"Hehehehe." Owen laughed with his face covered in frosting and an actual piece of cake in his hands. "Piece of cake…"
CAMPFIRE SITE
All the Gophers were at the campfire ceremony once more. Chris's plate had only one marshmallow while Justin and Heather left sitting on the stumps without one.
"Kudos to you all for an incredible night of entertainment." Chris complimented as the rest of the Gophers enjoyed the marshmallows they were given. "Music. Drama. Painting. There is only one marshmallow left on this plate. Justin. You reminded us all that looks matter a lot. And Heather. You're full of surprises. But reading another chick's diary out loud, to the whole world… man, that is whack."
Chris looked completely serious when he said this. "No kidding, that's messed up, dude."
"Oh please." Heather rolled her eyes and stuck her hand out. "Just give me my marshmallow already."
"Justin, I personally think this is very wrong," Chris said to the handsome teen. "But tonight, hotness just wasn't enough. The last marshmallow goes to…Heather."
After the host reluctantly gave the marshmallow to Heather, Justin frowned as he slumped down, "Time to catch the Boat of Losers, brah,"
Justin stood up and walked over the dock of shame while Heather cockily waved at him, "Later, brah,"
Though this earned her most of the Gophers', especially Gwen, a hard glare for what she's done.
CONFESSIONAL – GWEN
"If that evil little cow thinks she is getting away with this, she has another thing coming," Gwen said, as right now she's never been so determined to make someone pay.
KILLER BASS CABIN
Gwen would walk up to the boy's side of the cabin and knock on it a few times. The one who answered the door was Caine, as he's still awake for the night, "Hello, Gwen. What brings you here?"
"Is Harold still up?" Gwen asked,
"Harold," Caine called, and the ginger left his bed to approach him, "Gwen wants something."
"Did you say you brought a red ant farm with you?" Gwen inquired
"Yes," Harold confirmed,
"Think I can borrow it from you?" Gwen requested,
"Sure, let me get it for you," Harold replied and went to get his ant farm.
"Still on about Heather reading your diary?" Caine presumed,
"What's it to you?" Gwen questioned,
Caine smirked, pulled out what appeared to be a spray containing an unknown substance from his pocket, and handed it to Gwen. "Here, spray this near Heather and then dump the ants onto her bed."
"What's this supposed to be?" Gwen asked,
"It's a hand-mixed spray that I've made after the challenge. It's highly sweet, and all kinds of insects would go crazy for wanting a piece." Caine explained, "But try to be careful, or they'll start biting you before they bite Heather."
"Huh? That's handy," Gwen said and took the spray from his hand. Harold then returned with his ant farm and gave it to her,
What comes after is Gwen using the spray on Heather without arousing her suspicion since she liked the scent she's smelling. But not the ants dumped onto her bed. Then came a screaming which woke everyone but grew amused rather than complain about it.
"AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!"
If the red ants weren't enough, her running near the forest had drawn the attention of other insects to flock over her. Making her scream even louder than ever as she ran all night.
Everyone else had a good night's rest, and Gwen felt more satisfied with her revenge than she thought.
That's it for this episode, guys! Originally, I wanted Caine to show off his knife-throwing skills on stage with a willing volunteer. But I chose not to and gave Wednesday the spotlight with her skills on the Cello. I also listened to her version of the music, and it sounded cool in my opinion.
Also, I've included the bit where Heather finds and reads Gwen's diary since the episode highlights how she's one of the most despicable characters in the first season of TDI. But I did add a bit more detail on Gwen's revenge.
And finally, it's pretty obvious to whom Caine is referring in this chapter. But know that this character will not make an appearance here or next season. But they will make a cameo sometime soon.
That is all I have to say, and I'll see you all in the next episode!