Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama; however, I do own every contestant in this fic. Danielle and Felix belong to BaconBaka and Patricia belongs to AnOptimisticSnarker.

Note: All good things must come to a close; it's practically a law of life itself. Here we are at the final chapter where at least a few lasting questions might be answered. If you've been with the story since the start, thanks for sticking around for so long. I wish I had more to say, being this is the final chapter, but I kinda don't have much to talk about except to read on and enjoy!

French makes everything sound better, so it is not goodbye, it's just au revoir.

Ivy stretched out and relaxed; she was lying on the sofa and watching cartoons on TV. Currently she was watching an episode of her favourite cartoon 'Fireball the Snowman'.

"Oh fireball, don't you know that fire is bad for snowmen?" Giggled Ivy in amusement.

As Ivy continued to watch cartoons her mother entered the living room and sat down next to her.

"This looks like a new episode." Noted Mrs Shiverly. "What mess has Fireball gotten into this time?"

"He's trying to toast marshmallows, but so far all he's succeeded in cooking is his carrot nose." Explained Ivy. "This is exactly why snowmen and fire should be kept very far apart."

"Some snowmen never learn." Smiled Mrs Shiverly. "So, how does it feel to be back home?"

"Honestly? … I've never felt more relieved." Admitted Ivy. "This has been the most stressful summer of my life … in fact, even when I'm eighty and living with a bunch of cats I'll look back and know that it was the most stressful time of my life. Even math tests don't compare to how it felt. Honestly, I don't know what I'd have done if not for the family visit."

"Well, it's a good thing that everything turned out that way that it should." Smiled Mrs Shiverly. "And don't worry; just for the record, your bisexuality isn't going to change anything in your home life or school life."

"That's good to know. I'd just like things to go back to the way they were. Being on Total Drama wasn't exactly as fun as I thought it was gonna be, far from it … but I guess it helped me find out a few things about myself. Not just my sexuality, but also that I tend to be able to hold quite a grudge." Mumbled Ivy.

"After what Ub put you through, it's totally normal." Assured Mrs Shiverly. "Some wounds take a bit of time to heal. Scars are forever, but you were not scarred."

"I guess not." Agreed Ivy. "But it's great to be home. I've missed you all so much."

"And we've all missed you." Said Mrs Shiverly as she gave her daughter a hug. "But be proud of yourself Ivy, you made it to the jury. Less than half the players did that."

"… As always, you're right mum." Smiled Ivy.

"Oh, and for the record … if you and Edith had ended up becoming g a serious couple, I'd have approved of it. She's have been a great future daughter in law." Winked Mrs Shiverly.

"Mum!" Exclaimed Ivy. "… I've missed you. After a month like I've had, I think I could sleep for days, if not weeks."

"Well before that, a friend is coming over to see you. He was hoping to take you out for ice cream to celebrate you making the jury." Added Mrs Shiverly. "Think you've got enough energy left for an ice cream outing?"

"Always." Nodded Ivy enthusiastically. "Who's coming over? Bill? Tim? Ed? Bernie? Steve? Gassimore?"

"Here's a hint … cashews." Smirked Mrs Shiverly.

Before Ivy could respond there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it." Said Mr Shiverly from the hallway.

The door was opened and a moment or two later a boy entered the living room. He was dark skinned with blondish hair, a purple shirt with a white exclamation mark on it and red shorts.

"Felix!" Exclaimed Ivy. "I've missed you so much!

"Hi Ivy, I've missed you too." Smiled Felix. "Is this a bad time? I can come back later if you want."

"Don't worry, I've got nothing planned. I was gonna sleep for a week, but I can always make time for a friend." Assured Ivy. "So, I take it you saw me on TV?"

"I did … and boy, I was a nervous wreck watching what was happening." Admitted Felix. "I wanted to invent something that could help you, but I'd have gotten into legal trouble if I did. But, things seemed to end up ok, even if you got voted out."

"I'm fine with twelfth place; I'd had all I could handle at that point." Admitted Ivy. "I doubt I'd have lasted much longer, given how crazy the merge got at times."

"Well, I think you did stunningly well with the cards you were dealt. I never stopped believing in you, and I'm glad you were able to start believing in yourself." Said Felix as he gave Ivy a nice squeeze to the shoulder. "So, want to get some ice cream?"

"Sure; after a summer like mine, some good soft serve ice cream in a tone is exactly what I need." Agreed Ivy.

"Ready to go?" Asked Felix.

"Lead the way." Nodded Ivy.

Felix and Ivy left the room and walked out the front, both looking at each other fondly and also in … a new way. After they were gone Mr and Mrs Shiverly turned to face each other.

"It's great to have our little penguin back safe and sound." Smiled Mrs Shiverly. "She's growing up so fast."

"Think she's gonna be ok after all that she went through?" Asked Mr Shiverly.

"… I think, with Felix as her friend, she'll be just fine." Said Mrs Shiverly with a knowing smirk.

Charles smiled to himself. He sat as his desk, pencil in hand, and looked over the paper in front of him. However, his smile turned into a frown when he started to feel writers block.

"Hmm … this is kinda hard." Frowned Charles. "Writing about missing her and what has happened since getting back home an hour ago was easy, but writing her some romantic poetry … usually it's easy, but now that I have a sweet girlfriend it must apply to … argh, it's so hard!"

Charles put his pencil down and gripped his hair in frustration.

"Why must writing a letter to the love of my life be so hard?!" Exclaimed Charles. "I've been back just over an hour and I still haven't posted a letter! This isn't gonna look very good on my 'Boyfriend CV'. Maybe some tropical fruit juice will help…"

Charles opened a drawer on his desk; it was filled to the brim with juice cartons (in the flavour of Tropical Tease) organised very neatly. Charles picked one up and, after closing the drawer, punctured the carton with the straw and began to sip the tasty tropical juice.

"So good … I've missed this juice of the heavens." Thought Charles in bliss.

Soon enough the carton was empty and Charles tossed it into the bin (which had several other empty juice cartoons in it, of the same flavour of course) before turning back to his task at hand.

"Hmm … calling her a mermaid is sweet but cliché, calling her a shark would show she is tough but she may get mad, and calling her a clown fish … well, she's funny, but she might look too deep into it … urgh! Why must forming a sentence of love be this complicated?" Sighed Charles in resignation. "Looks like I'm going to be … tardy…"

Charles let his head drop to the desk with a light thud. After staying in this position for a few moments the bedroom door opened and his mother entered the room.

"Are you alright Charles? I heard a yell." Stated Mrs Johnson in concern for her son.

"I'm fine mum … I'm just in the middle of a situation." Sighed Charles. "I can't think of what to write next in my letter to Zanna."

"You're writing to her already?" Asked Mrs Johnson in surprise.

"Of course. If I don't write often enough she might feel neglected, and I'd rather not become a resident of Splits-Ville." Explained Charles. "It's my first, and maybe only, relationship and I really don't want to mess it up…"

Mrs Johnson smiled in a motherly way and gave her son a hug.

"Charles, don't worry. Zanna doesn't expect you to write to her right away; no girl would. I've seen you and Zanna interacting on the show and I get the impression she's a patient girl. Take it at a gentle pace, it'll work out. After all, me and your dad took things pretty slow." Assured Mrs Johnson. "In fact, we didn't even kiss until the fifth date."

"… Are you sure Zanna won't mind a day or two of no contact?" Asked Charles.

"I'm sure of it." Nodded Mrs Johnson.

"… Then that's good enough for me." Decided Charles. "Heh, I could do with taking a few chill pills … does the hospital sell those?"

"I'll look into it. Charles, you're really growing up from a boy into a big man. Eleventh place is really impressive and nothing to feel bad about. You did great my son, and you're a credit to the family. And as for your worries … I was just the same when I was your age." Chuckled Mrs Johnson. "I used to be so shy and nervous I could barely speak. I think dating Zanna will be really good for you, I think she'll help you open up and be more self-confident."

"I think so too." Agreed Charles. "Was there anything you think I could have done better?"

Mrs Johnson looked her son in the eye.

"Charles, you did the best you could. You're great at being yourself, and nobody could ever surpass you at that. A lot of fans of the show were rioting online after you got voted off." Smiled Mrs Johnson.

"Really? Whoa … I never knew I'd be that popular." Noted Charles. "… It's a good feeling, being popular. It makes me feel confident … but I'll even be able to pass gym now."

"Oh, and speaking of gym class, after what you said on TV about your gym teacher bullying you, he has been suspended from his job and is now being very closely monitored. I also slapped him; no man treats a son of mine badly." Declared Mrs Johnson.

"… Thanks mum." Said Charles gratefully. "I was really scared of Mr Mattie … or Muscle Man as he told us to call him."

"Well, just so you know … he was terrified of me. Don't think that just because I'm a geeky mother with ginger hair and a fondness for staying indoors I can't whup ass when I need to." Smirked Mrs Johnson. "You didn't think you got your fighting spirit from your dad, did you?"

"… You are a badass mum, forgive my potty mouth." Giggled Charles.

"You're forgiven." Winked Mrs Johnson. "So, before dinner … would you like to like to watch some cartoons with your old mother?"

"You're not that old mum." Chuckled Charles. "But sure, that sounds nice. After the epic adventure I've had, I need some relaxation and downtime."

"It's not been easy at home either. After not having you here for a month I need some serious mother son bonding." Added Mrs Johnson. "And Zanna is welcome here whenever she wants; I'd love to meet her. I'd make a future daughter in law joke, but I think you've gone through enough embarrassment on the show."

"… Gee, thanks." Said Charles with a playful roll of his eyes.

Sampson sighed in utter content and relaxation as he lay on the comfortable fluffy sofa in his home's living room, bowl of popcorn in hand, while watching TV. He'd been sitting there for about two hours and wasn't going to get up and do something else anytime soon, if he had his way.

"This is life." Sighed Sampson with a small smile. "Finally, I'm away from that skull motif wacko. I hope me and Otis never cross paths again … ever."

Sampson ate a handful of popcorn and yawned.

"Maybe I could go to sleep; I've got nothing better to do." Mused Sampson. "The dreams my mind creates are better than most things on TV anyway."

Sampson was about to settle down, but before he could do so his dad entered the room.

"Still watching TV?" Asked Mr Knight.

"I was, but I think I'm gonna go to sleep now." Replied Sampson/

"You've already slept a lot on the show; do you still need to rest?" Asked Mr Knight. "Sleep isn't really for pleasure; it's for getting your energy back."

"Dreams are better than reality." Shrugged Sampson.

"Son, you need to do more with your life. It's not healthy to sleep and laze about as much as you do." Said Mr Knight seriously.

"I'd rather not." Shrugged Sampson.

"… Why do you hate being active? You used to like going outside. Sampson, me and your mother are worried … really worried. It's fine to have a lazy day, but … you might end up really hurting yourself with how little you do." Said Mr Knight in worry. "Why do you hate doing stuff and love sleeping? We just want to know."

"I can't say." Frowned Sampson. "It's personal."

"Sampson my son, me and your mother are concerned for you and want to help you. Sure, we've had family disagreements, but the three of us are a family no matter what. Please, just tell me why." Pleaded Mr Knight. "I … I just want to be a good father."

"You are a good father." Insisted Sampson.

"If I was a good father I'd have stopped you gaining weight and having no motivation." Sighed Mr Knight as he sat down next to Sampson. "What's the problem Sampson? Is somebody picking on you?"

"No, it's not that. I just like to dream." Insisted Sampson.

"But why? Everybody likes doing something they enjoy for a reason." Pressed Mr Knight.

Sampson was silent, before he decided to admit his secret.

"Because … dreams are the only place I can see and hear my mother … my real mother." Admitted Sampson. "Sure, Jeanette is a good step-mother, but she's not my real mum. I just can't love and connect with her like I could with my real mum … but in my dreams, I can see mum, even if just for a little while. Sounds retarded, right?"

Mr Knight gave his son a tight hug.

"Never use the R word to describe anything about yourself." Said Mr Knight firmly. "And … I know how you feel son. I dream of her too sometimes. Why didn't you tell me this?"

"… I thought it was crazy, and I prefer to stay out of the spotlight." Admitted Sampson. "I mean, I was pretty passive when I was competing, for the most part."

"But you still stood up and pulled off some impressive tricks occasionally. See Sampson, if you put effort into things all the time you could have virtually limitless potential." Smiled Mr Knight. "Shady or not, the way you eliminated Ricky shows you have the potential and capability; you just lack the will to use your strengths."

"… It's hard…" Mumbled Sampson. "… It's hard to only hear my mother in my dreams … I don't want to forget her."

"As long as you think about her and look back at the good times, she will never be forgotten." Assured Mr Knight. "I know you don't much like sports, but … would you like to play a game of catch at the park? I've always wanted to try that; most fathers do that with their sons."

Sampson was silent … and then he managed to smile.

"Ok dad, just this once." Chuckled Sampson.

"And maybe we could invite Otis around sometime; you guys could be good friends if you tried." Added Mr Knight.

"No. Not in this lifetime. Not in the afterlife either." Said Sampson firmly with a tone of absolute finality.

"Just kidding; let your dad have his fun." Chuckled Mr Knight.

Penta flopped onto her bed and sighed happily. After so long she was finally home. Penta grabbed an armful of her massive collection of cuddly toys and hugged them close.

"I've missed you guys! Sorry I wasn't able to play Tea Party with you all, but Lady Penta had places to be. You guys will never guess it … but I've got a boyfriend now!" Exclaimed Penta.

Penta 'listened' to one of the toys responding.

"Mr Buttercup, that's dirty! I'm a good girl and Larry is a good boy!" Scolded Penta.

Penta 'listened' to one of the other toys.

"Robert Pattison Jr, of course I don't know why his blood type is. That'd be creepy!" Exclaimed Penta.

There was a knock on Penta's bedroom door.

"Come in." Called Penta.

The door opened and Mr Polestar entered the room.

"Playing with those cuddly toys of yours I see." Noted Mr Polestar.

"Well, I am a girl." Replied Penta with a smile.

"And you're a wonderful girl indeed. I'm so proud that you got as far as you did. In my opinion, there is no better way to lose than being taken out due to everybody fearing you can beat them." Smiled Mr Polestar as he sat down next to his daughter.

"But, I only came ninth. I didn't even make it to the bronze rank." Stated Penta.

"Ninth out of twenty six is nothing to be ashamed of. When I was your age I'm not sure if I could have got that far." Admitted Mr Polestar. "And you know what impressed me the most?"

"… The time I knocked down a tree to make a rain shelter for me and Yoko?" Asked Penta.

"Well, yes, that was impressive. But I was referring to the fact that rather than bulldoze your way through the game with your army training and raw physical power like I expected … you played socially and made friends and a lover. Such a playing style was a delight to watch." Complimented Mr Polestar.

"Aw dad, you're gonna make me blush." Giggled Penta. "Not that I don't like the praise though; it feels good to be told that I was awesome."

"You've earned it. You've also learnt a bit of a gift." Added Mr Polestar.

"Oooo! What kind of gift?" Asked Penta eagerly.

"Well, how would you react if I told you I've decided for the family to take a holiday to Disney Land? It's been years since our last vacation, and I think we're due for another. Me and your mother have really missed you, and we feel that since you didn't win, you deserve some kind of consolation prize." Explained Mr Polestar. "So, good present?"

"… Dad, you are more awesome then Chuck Norris." Whispered Penta as she gave her dad a tight hug. "Thank you…"

"Penta my little soldier … it is my pleasure. You may not be destined for the military life, but you excelled on the battlefield on Total Drama and, in my opinion, you could have been a great soldier … but you do what you want to do with your life, not what I once thought you did." Said Mr Polestar as he glanced at the Hello Kitty clock on the wall. "Oh, and it looks like it's nearly time for your tennis lesson. Patricia should be here soon."

At that moment the sound of a car horn was heard from outside Penta's bedroom window. Penta opened the window and looked down at the street; a pink Volkswagen beetle was parked at the curb and at the driver's wheel was a blond teen with her hair in a ponytail wearing a pink and white tennis outfit.

"Hey Penta! Ready to go?" Called Patricia. "A little birdie told me that there is free ice cream being given away by the tennis court today … and when I say 'a little birdie', I mean that Sachiko texted me!"

"Do they have strawberry?" Asked Penta.

"They have everything, even Cola and Caramel flavour! I didn't even know they had that flavour. So, you ready?" Called Patricia.

"Almost; can you wait five minutes?" Requested Penta.

"Sure, I'll just listen to my tunes to keep me entertained." Nodded Patricia as she turned up the volume in her car which revealed she was listening to heavy metal.

Penta jumped off her bed and looked worried.

"I totally forgot about tennis practise!" Exclaimed Penta. "Where is my stuff? Dad, help!"

"Relax Penta, I packed it for you before you got home. It's by the front door, ready to be taken out." Assured Mr Polestar. "Go and enjoy yourself."

"… Thanks dad, you're a life saver." Smiled Penta as she gave her dad another hug and ran out of the room.

Mr Polestar was left alone; he then glanced at Penta's cuddly toys and looked thoughtful.

"… Robert Pattison Jr? Hmm, how does she come up with such good names for her toys?" Pondered Mr Polestar.

Xadrian sighed in content as he relaxed in a worn and rusted lawn chair in front of his trailer. Currently he and his pappy were using some of the 'friendship grant money' that Larry had given Xadrian to have a barbecue to celebrate their upcoming escape from poverty. The sausages and bacon were sizzling in a somewhat ancient metal pan that was placed above a small fire. The food smelt great and, even with his leg in a cast, Xadrian felt like one of life's winners for once in his existence.

"Ya'll did mighty g'd Xadrian. Ya made me proud son." Smiled Mr Earl as he sat on a rusty deck chair next to his son. "It w's a l'cky day fur tha Earl family wh'n ya d'cided ta b'nk wit' L'rry th't one night."

"Yeah, if ah hadn't th'n nuthin' w'd have ch'nged." Agreed Xadrian. "And if ah didn't g't any m'ney an' also broke mah leg … y'know, b'st not ta th'nk about it, ah r'ckon."

"Ah agree, it ain't worth thinkin' 'bough what didn't come ta be. Come tomorrow our time in tha trail'r p'rk o' p'verty is ov'r. It'll be a new life an' a new w'rld … an' it's all thanks to ya'll Xadrian." Smiled Mr Earl whilst affectionately ruffling his son's hair.

"Th'nks pappy, but it ain't all cause o' me. Ah th'nk we h'v L'rry an' his par'nts ta th'nk fur their charity an' h'spitality." Said Xadrian modestly.

"Ah'll be sure ta th'nk them fur it face ta face." Promised Mr Earl. "Ah'm gl'd its finally workin' out … ah c'n finally give ya'll the life th't ya deserve. Ah ain't bin th't g'd of a pappy to ya, have ah?"

"Wh't are ya talkin' 'bout pappy? Ya'll are a great par'nt." Assured Xadrian.

Mr Earl shook his head.

"No; if ah w's a great par'nt ah w'd h'v been able ta give ya'll a g'd childh'd full o' games, fun, f'ncy food, gr'nd days out an' not a th'ng ta w'rry 'bout … instead, all ah c'd give ya w's tha bare minimum … which ain't wh't ya need'd. Ah promise Xadrian, fr'm now on ah'll make up fur tha years of p'verty ah couldn't get ya'll away fr'm." Lamented Mr Earl.

"Pappy, ya'll got nothin' ta say s'rry fur." Assured Xadrian. "We g't dealt a bad h'nd in life; it ain't nobody's fault. An' th'ngs are g'nna get bett'r now."

"An' it's all th'nks ta ya'll and yur mighty wise choice in friends." Nodded Mr Earl. "Yur momma w'd be proud of tha man ya'll are growin' up ta be."

"Th'nks pappy." Smiled Xadrian. "Ah wish ah c'd rememb'r more 'bout her … all ah know is wh't ya tell me."

Mr Earl was silent, as though debating whether he should say a certain something or not.

"Xadrian … aft'r wh't ya endured an' survived on Total Drama … ah th'nk ya'll are now mature enough ta kn'w how ya momma died." Said Mr Earl cautiously. "W'd ya like ta know, or w'd ya prefer ta n't know?"

"… Ah w'd like ya ta tell me." Decided Xadrian.

"Ok … err … gosh, this ain# g'nna be an easy th'ng ta explain." Murmured Mr Earl. "Ok … ah th'nk ah c'n explain it in the followin# sentence…"

Mr Earl took a deep breath.

"Yur momma … gave up her physical form ta g'v life ta ya'll." Said Mr Earl sombrely.

Xadrian looked confused for a moment before he realised what he had been told.

"Ya mean … momma died cuz ah w's born? … Ah killed mah own momma?" Whispered Xadrian in horror.

"No. You did not kill her." Assured Mr Earl. "It's … j'st one of tha h'rsh reality of life; s'm women ain't str'ng enough ta give b'rth an' live. It ain't yur fault an' it ain't anyb'dy else's fault either. N'w, ah may n't be a spirit call'r or a physic or wh't have ya, but ah do kn'w one th'ng."

"What's th't?" Asked Xadrian quietly.

"Yur momma's last w'rds … were th't ya'll were beautiful an' th't she w's sure ya were g'nna gr'w up ta do great th'ngs. She didn't regret wh't happ'ned fur even a moment." Said Mr Earl gently. "Ya kn'w son, tha dead nev'r really leave us … th'y l'v on in our hearts … an' really, death is little m'r th'n a sh'rt separation. Wh't is a few decades of bein' ap'rt fr'm an eternity of bein' togeth'r as a lovin' family?"

"… Ya kn'w pappy, ya'll are right. Ah … ah w'll see her again … ah'll nev'r forget 'bout her. When ah gr'w up, ah'll make her proud." Promised Xadrian.

"Xadrian … ah bet ya already h'v." Smiled Mr Earl warmly while ruffling Xadrian's messy blond hair.

At that moment a shooting star went by in tha sky.

"Ah see th't shootin' star ev'ry year … ah like ta th'nk it's yur momma checkin' up on us and makin' sure we're doin' alright." Said Mr Earl spiritually. "Wanna w'sh upon tha star?"

Xadrian shook his head.

"Why w'd ah need ta? Ah g't everythin' ah c'd ev'r w'nt." Said Xadrian sincerely.

At the Loyalty Residence, the apartment Kelly and her family lived in, the five sisters were taking a break from packing up their belongs for the upcoming journey to the Youngblood Mansion and were bonding over a modest dinner of cheap vegetables and bread, with a mug of water each.

"A toast to Kelly, for being a big enough girl to play as hard as she did for our sake, and for being able to get us out of the poor house." Announced Kala.

All the Loyalty sisters raised their mugs and smiled at Kelly.

"Really it is Donald you should toast to; he's the one who got his parents to help us … and come to think of it, Yoko is the one who truly deserves the praise because she was the one to convince Donald to convince his parents." Admitted Kelly.

"You played your part though Kelly, don't sell yourself short … even if you were one of the shortest campers." Teased Kala, Kelly's 17 year old sister.

"Kala, don't tease Kelly. She's been through enough this summer." Said Koral firmly. "Kelly only auditioned in the first place because we asked her to. And what does she have to show for it?"

"Us not being poor?" Guessed Kristy, Kelly's 7 year old sister innocently.

"Well, yes." Conceded Koral. "But our dear sister Kelly, our most cuddly and kind family member, is known as the villain of her season, went through emotional pain and even has a broken arm … I have to admit, I feel like an awful sister for being the one to pitch the idea of her joining Total Drama in the first place..."

"It's my fault too; I was the one to originally say she should play aggressively." Mumbled Kala.

"I share some of the blame, I'm the one who taught her to lie so well." Admitted Kanya, Kelly's 13 year old sister.

"I did something bad too, I left the cap off of Kelly's toothpaste." Sniffled Kristy.

"We're all really sorry for all the pain we caused you this summer Kelly." Apologised Koral in remorse. "Direct or indirect, we still were not good sisters to you, and rather than give you gentler hugs and comfort when I visited you, I just told you to keep doing it … can you ever forgive us?"

Kelly smiled at her sisters.

"Of course I can; I can never stay mad at family … you guys are the reason I did all that bad stuff … I did it for you. And it's my own fault really. I didn't have to do as you had suggested, I was never required to be the villain … it was all on my own free will. Really, I'm the one as fault, not any of you." Insisted Kelly. "… And you know, I think I learnt something from the show."

"What did you learn?" Asked Kanya.

"That strategy usage leads to being a meanie?" Guessed Kristy.

"Nope … its' that everybody has a dark side. I once thought I was a nice gal, but I became the villain. Even general nice people like Donald, Edith, Penta and Mist, they too did bad deeds. I think the only person I can name who didn't do something underhanded at some point was Yoko, as far as I know. It seems to genuinely be nearly impossible to find a truly honest person." Mused Kelly. "Do all people have a dark side?"

"Oh! I know a quote about this, I saw it on QI once!" Exclaimed Kristy. "I think it went something like 'The only certainly of life, other than death, is that nothing is truly certain or as it seems. It's up to us to shape the world as we wish'. I think it means free will can have side effects."

"I think this meal is getting too philosophical for my tastes. Let's just eat." Said Kala as she continued to eat her modest meal.

"Yes, let's. I've not had a family meal in so long, and I've missed the simple pleasure of family, like eating together at the dinner table." Agreed Kelly.

"Friendship isn't magic … family is." Agreed Koral.

The Loyalty sisters continued to eat, but Kristy spoke up.

"Kelly?" Said Kristy.

"Yes?" Nodded Kelly.

"… You may not have been a hero on the show … but you are my hero." Smiled Kristy. "Love you sis."

For the first time in weeks, Kelly could only genuinely smile.

Edith sat on a chair by the dinner table in her family's home above their sweet shop. Currently she was enjoying one of her favourite family recipes, honey covered marshmallow and chocolate ice cream covered in caramel and wrapped in candy paper. As she ate her sugary treat, her mother spoke to her.

"It's great to have you back home Edith. Me, your dad and all of the town have been missing you. You're a local celebrity now." Smiled Mrs Reed.

"… Local celebrity?" Repeated Edith.

"Yes indeedy. Placing sixth out of twenty six in the most popular reality show in Canada is the most impressive thing anybody has done around here since Mr Witlack scored a negative twenty on his adult education math test." Exclaimed Mrs Reed.

"Mum, how is scoring a negative number on a test impressive?" Asked Edith in confusion.

"Because it's supposed to be impossible." Explained Mrs Reed. "It's been different not having you here, there was so much peace and quiet, and nobody to wear the candy bar costume."

"Gee, thanks mum." Said Edith with a playful eye roll.

"Oh come on dearie, let your mother have her fun." Teased Mrs Reed. "I'm so proud of you, we all are … and I nearly had a heart attack when you got launched out of that catapult. I thought you were going to end up even worse than Kelly did!"

"Don't worry; the landing was actually safe … it's just the 'flying over a mile in the air' that was the scary part." Assured Edith. "But Hurl of Shame aside, it was a summer to remember. The only thing missing was a summer romance … but me and Otis and still pals, so I'm fine."

"You're only eleven Edith; you don't need to worry about finding love yet." Assured Mrs Reed. "You'll find the right boy someday, maybe when you least expect it."

"I know … I just want to have a romance like you and dad have." Admitted Edith.

"And you will. But right now, you should be enjoying your childhood." Said Mrs Reed gently. "In fact, since you've been such a star while you were on the show … would you like to have one of the Ultra Boxes in the shop? I know how much you love them."

"Thanks mum!" Exclaimed Edith as she got up and started to run for the stairs leading to the shop. "Oh, and mum?"

"Yes dearie?" Nodded Mrs Reed.

"… Otis told me to tell you he thinks you are really attractive." Grinned Edith.

"Edith!" Exclaimed Mrs Reed in embarrassment.

"Come on, let your daughter have her fun." Teased Edith as she dashed down the stairs.

Mrs Reed blinked, and then shook her head with a smile.

Edith jump down the last few stairs and entered the candy store below the house; she immediately made a bee line for the selection box section and scanned the shelves for the 'Ultra Boxes'.

"I hope we're not out of stock." Mumbled Edith. "We don't get any more deliveries until Friday."

"Um, excuse me?" Said a voice.

Edith turned and blinked in confusion; standing before her was what seemed to be a kid around her age and size wearing a blue furred cat costume with pink hair.

"… Did mum and dad get a new mascot and forget to tell me about it?" Pondered Edith. "Err … can I help you?"

"Yes. Are you Edith Reed, the daughter of the Candy King and Queen and 6th placer on Total Drama Tweenabet?" Asked the cat person.

"That's me." Nodded Edith proudly. "Do you need help finding anything? Or do you want an autograph?"

".. Do you remember me Edith?" Asked the cat person.

"… Should I?" Asked Edith. "I don't recall ever meeting a girl in a cat suit."

"Well, I doubt you'd remember me. We barely knew each other in Kindergarten … but a girl always remembers the person she saved the life of." Replied the cat person.

The cat person then put her hands on the head of the costume and pulled it off. Her face now revealed, the girl smiled at Edith's eyes widened in recognition. The girl had purple hair, a bright smile … and seemingly permanent burn marks on the right side of her face, and presumably the rest of the right side of her body.

"… Danielle?" Gaped Edith.

"Konnichiwa Edith. It sure has been a while, huh?" Smiled Danielle. "It doesn't feel that long ago when our kindergarten went up in flames."

"… You took the brunt of the flame for me … you saved me." Whispered Edith.

Edith then flung her arms around Danielle and gave her a big hug.

"Thank you! You're a hero! A saint! A female Mr Rogers!" Exclaimed Edith in pure gratitude. "Where have you been all this time? I never got the chance to thank you for saving me…"

"I was home-schooled, and recovering." Admitted Danielle. "By the time I was ready to show my face again, well, my family decided to move house for a fresh start … but here we are, face to face and no mask hiding me. And … you're welcome."

"… As a token of my gratitude, and probably from all my family, you are entitled to one of everything in the store." Smiled Edith. "Take all that you want."

"Oh Edith, that's really sweet of you … but I don't need a reward. I … just reacted. Saving your life is reward enough, burns and all." Assured Danielle.

"In that case … would you like to come upstairs? I'm sure my mum and dad would love to personally thank the girl who saved their daughter." Offered Edith.

"… I'd be honoured." Nodded Danielle as she followed Edith towards the stairs. "So … what was it like taking the Hurl of Shame?"

"I'm never gonna live that one down, am I?" Chuckled Edith.

Larry sat in his 'gamer chair' playing on Xbox as he was used to doing … but this time it was a little different because both his parents had a game controller as well and were joining in the game of CoD.

"Ok, this level should be simple. We just have to blow up the two tanks patrolling the area." Instructed Larry.

"So, do we shoot them?" Asked Mrs Chen. "What button is the fire button again?"

"… Just stick close to us." Stated Larry. "You know what to do, right dad?"

"… I think so. Would throwing grenades at the tank's treads make it blow up?" Asked Mr Chen.

"It'd stop it moving." Nodded Larry. "Set down some land mines, and I'll lure it closer."

"Got it." Nodded Mrs Chen as she made her character drop a bunch of land mines.

"Mum, no!" Exclaimed Larry.

BOOM!

The land mines detonated and all three players were blown up, and the game over screen was shown.

"… Mum, easy on the trigger, ok?" Sighed Larry.

"Sorry honey." Chuckled Mrs Chen. "I'm still getting used to video games; all these buttons are things happening on the screen is confusing."

"Well, at least you weren't Leroy Jenkins." Added Mr Chen. "… I read up on gaming lingo before this game so I'd know what Larry means if he uses 'game speak'."

"… I think we should play a different game. CoD is easier to play when I'm working with experienced players." Decided Larry.

"That reminds me, care to explain all this 'trolling' you've done on Xbox?" Said Mr Chen firmly. "It is a form of harassment son."

Larry gulped and spoke.

"… I only did it to vent my own negative emotions. I just … felt sad that I never saw you guys." Admitted Larry. "But if you're gonna be home more … maybe I can out my trolling days behind me…"

"That'd be very nice. I don't want my life's work to be a meanie." Nodded Mrs Chen.

"I'm your life's work? What about your job?" Asked Larry.

"Compared to you, my offspring and only child, my job is meaningless … I just forgot that for a while." Admitted Mrs Chen.

"Your mother is right. We weren't there when we should have been, much like the parents of that Tilly girl. Well, from now on we can assure you that we'll be here for you and not at work all the time. With how often we work, we've accumulated a lot of day's off we can take … and I think using them to spend time with our son is a good way of enjoying them." Added Mr Chen.

Larry could only smile and try to keep a serious face.

"… I finally feel like we're a family. Before this it was like living with, well, strangers … I'd thank Chris for letting me on his show and making this possible, but I think he's a prick so I won't." Chuckled Larry.

"Larry, language!" Scolded Mrs Chen.

"Oh come on dear, I think we can let him have that one." Chuckled Mr Chen. "Chris did really upset Xadrian in the fear facing episode."

"I guess that's true. And that reminds me, we need to prepare a big feast for when Xadrian and Mr Earl arrive; that poor boy was so skinny, and his dad didn't look too well off either." Murmured Mrs Chen. "Plus, we've got to get the rooms ready for them, figure out what things they most need, oh the list goes on!"

"We still have a day before they arrive; plenty of time." Assured Mr Chen. "Before that, perhaps we could watch a movie as a family?"

"Sounds great dad … but first, I have some things I need to do." Admitted Larry. "I'm gonna send an apology to everybody I trolled on Xbox … strange to me still, I seem to have gained a conscience and a sense of guilt over the summer."

"Our little boy is growing up so fast." Cooed Mrs Chen.

"Mum…" Groaned Larry in embarrassment.

"Ok my sweet, let's leave Larry for now. I think we've embarrassed him enough. See you at dinner Larry, or sooner if you want." Said Mr Chen as he and his wife got up and left the room.

Larry smiled to himself, and then looked serious as he grabbed a notebook from by the Television and turned to the first page.

"May as well start from the beginning … time to apologise to the first person I ever trolled; hopefully CookieFootsies25 will be willing to hear me out." Said Larry, before lightly chuckling. "I guess if apologies were easy then they'd be meaningless."

"Ow! Ow! Ow!" Yelped Tilly in pain while holding back tears. "Papi, no more! I'll be good!"

Tilly felt the lowest she had ever felt; currently she was over her dad's knee, bottom bared, and was receiving a rather painful spanking. With every smack Tilly let out a yelp or a cry and could only wish she could disappear. Her mum sat in another chair and looked at her daughter in a remorseful way. Tilly wanted to kick, struggle or at least try and break free, but she knew from past punishments that struggling only made it worse … and no punishment had ever been as bad as this one. Normally a spanking lasted only thirty seconds, but this one felt never ending.

After what seemed like an eternity (but was really closer to three minutes) Mr Rodriguez ceased the punishment and pulled Tilly's undergarments and pants back up and set her down on her feet where she was quick to rub her sore behind.

Tilly was about to run off to her room where she could cry in private and, maybe, decide if she should just run away and perhaps take Otis up on his offer of giving her a place to stay … but she was stopped when she felt her mother's arms wrap around her and embrace her gently closely. Tilly couldn't help but sink into the hug, while her father knelt down so that he was level with Tilly.

"Tilly Carmella Rodriguez, do you know why I spanked you?" Asked Mr Rodriguez firmly.

"Because you hate me!" Sobbed Tilly.

"Tilly, we don't hate you." Insisted Mr Rodriguez.

"Your Papi is right, we love you." Agreed Mrs Rodriquez gently.

"You've never given me any reason to think otherwise! I'm always ignored and you only talk to me when you're mad at me! You hate me! Don't deny it! You enjoyed spanking me, you just love to hit me while I'm down!" Yelled Tilly as tears started to flow out of her eyes.

Both Mr and Mrs Rodriguez were silent; Tilly's words hurt a lot, and yet they knew they were far from unjustified.

"We're sorry Tilly." Said Mrs Rodriguez remorsefully.

"No you're not…" Mumbled Tilly. "You don't mean it…"

Mr Rodriguez looked his daughter in the eyes.

"I am very sorry I had to spank you Tilly. I did not want to do it, but as your dad it is my job to punish you when you have been bad. I felt horrible doing it." Said Mr Rodriguez in remorse. "Do you need any ice?"

Tilly wanted to say yes, but it only came out as a sad mumble, to which her mother hugged her closer.

"Tilly darling … we're sorry. Not just for this punishment, but … for everything." Whispered Mrs Rodriguez in shame. "We … had no idea how you felt … we didn't realise how bad we were as parents to you. Work kept us busy, providing for all six of you kids kept us busy … but that is no excuse. We were never there for you when we should have been, and we didn't even realise it … can you ever forgive us?"

Tilly was silent; were her parents paying attention to her? Were they … showing her love and care?

"We felt so angry and horrified watching you … but, when you learnt why you were doing it, we felt no anger … only shame. We've signed up for parent counselling classes; hopefully we can become the parents you deserve, and we can make it up to you. Even if it takes the rest of our lives, your Papi and Mami are going to make things right." Promised Mr Rodriguez.

"… Papi … you really care about me? You too Mami?" Asked Tilly shakily. "Even … even after how I acted and how sore you've made my bum feel? … How do I know you are being truthful?"

"… We have the papers for the parent counselling classes if you want to see them. And the neighbours can probably confirm we cried when we learnt how bad we were to you." Said Mr Rodriguez sadly.

"You've been punished now, there is no reason to be mad or show you anything but love." Smiled Mrs Rodriguez. "In fact, once you feel a little less sore, we can go out for ice cream, just the three of us. We have some catching up, and patching up, to do … and also, we want to properly know our daughter. We only have one, and it's you."

Tilly was silent … before she burst into happy tears and pulled both of her parents into a big hug.

"I'm sorry for everything!" Exclaimed Tilly. "I … I love you!"

Mr and Mrs Rodriguez returned the hug without hesitation.

"We love you to … and from now on, we'll show you that we do. You're our daughter and we love you Tilly, pansexual and everything, never forget that." Said Mrs Rodriguez warmly.

"… Papi, Mami … I love you too ... and can I have some ice?" Requested Tilly

"Of course you can … my spicy little seniorita." Smiled Mr Rodriguez.

Donald was leaning on the balcony outside his room looking up at the moon. The stars were bright, the bronze coloured case of his prize money was set besides the bed, his bronze life idol was put up safe on a shelf and his belongings had been unpacked and put in their proper places. Donald had nothing to do except relax.

"The moon sure is bright tonight … yet it's far away as always." Mused Donald. "It kind of reminds me of how far away Yoko is … hopefully she had a safe journey home."

Donald reached into a pocket of his jacket and took out a picture; it was a photo of himself, Yoko and Otis smiling and laughing at the Playa. Donald smiled as he looked at it.

"I suppose Otis deserved to win more than I did; I may have had trouble in the game, but outside the game he has the most trouble, and that's where the prize really matters." Mused Donald. "And … it hasn't been a day and I already miss Yoko; guess I'll have to get used to it."

Donald put the photo back in his pocket and looked up at the night sky.

"I wonder what Yoko is doing right now … maybe she's looking at the moon too? Then again, she's in a different time zone." Mused Donald. "Man, after being together and hanging out so much for a month, it's so hard to adjust to her not being here."

"Something on your mind bro?" Asked a voice.

Donald turned back and saw Matthias walking up to him.

"Hey bro, how's it going?" Asked Donald.

"For me, pretty good. For you, I'm not so sure. What's wrong Don-Don? Feeling sad that you lost?" Asked Matthias in concern.

Donald frowned.

"Don't call me Don-Don, you know I hate that name. And I'm not sad about losing; I'm content with how I did … I just, well, I really miss Yoko already." Admitted Donald. "And if this is how I feel after one day, imagine how I'll feel after a week. Why didn't I think of the fact we live across the world from each other when I asked her out?"

"Love often stops us from thinking properly. Remember the 'Reptile House Incident' during the final date I took my ex-girlfriend on?" Asked Matthias.

"Yeah; to this day I'll never know how the crocodiles managed to get through the barrier and how your ex-girlfriend ended up with her cloths ripped and kissing a crocodile." Shuddered Donald. "It was a dark day for all of us."

"Got that right." Agreed Matthias. "Don't worry about your girlfriend bro, I'm sure you'll be able to see her again soon. And you could always write to her … you have her home address right?"

"I do. I'm amazed the mail service delivers that far." Admitted Donald. "What a summer it has been … not only did I become best friends with somebody who is practically my opposite, and get a perfect girlfriend … but I've really grown up from the, quite frankly, snotty rich whelp I once was."

"True now you're a cool rich whelp." Teased Matthias.

"Oh go shove it." Said Donald with a roll of his eyes.

"Take it easy bro, I'm just kidding." Chuckled Matthias. "Also, now that you've got a girlfriend, mum and dad are gonna be giving you 'the relationship talk' tomorrow. Just giving you a heads up."

"… Crud." Groaned Donald. "I don't know what could be worse than that…"

"Maybe I could give you the talk instead?" Offered Matthias.

"… Well, looks like I know what could be worse." Smirked Donald. "So, what should I do with the rest of my summer?"

"Maybe we could order a Chinese take-out to celebrate your third place finish?" Offered Matthias. "And maybe when Yoko comes to visit, whenever that may be, we could order some Chinese food so shed be familiar with at least one thing."

"… Matthias, you do realise that Canadian Chinese food is nothing like actual Chinese food, right?" Asked Donald.

"Seriously? Whoa, that's false advertising." Noted Matthias. "Oh, that reminds me … you've got twenty five thousand dollars of prize money to spend. Any idea what you're doing to do with your prize?"

"Yep. On the car ride back from the airport the perfect idea entered my head." Nodded Donald.

"Well, don't leave me in suspense, what are you gonna buy?" Asked Matthias in curiosity.

Donald paused for dramatic effect.

"I'm gonna commission somebody of great artistic and sculpting talent … to make a statue of my darling Yoko. Yes, a nice life size, and then some, statue in her innocent and golden hearted image, and it'll be placed just out there in the garden where I shall be able to see it every morning and be prompted to think of the girl who defrosted by heart and showed me the light. And I'll even pay extra to make it resistant to any and all of the natural elements. I want it built to last. After all, what is love if it is not forever?" Asked Donald with a dreamy sigh; his voice had steadily turned love-struck. "And besides, not many boyfriends can say they have paid thousands of dollars for a statue of their girlfriend so everybody can see how perfect she is, can they?"

Matthias was silent for a moment before he smirked.

"She's got you so whipped bro." Teased Matthias.

Donald flashed a smirk in response.

"At least I have a girlfriend." Winked Donald.

Matthias stood dumbstruck before he started to laugh.

"Otis taught you well. I'd love to have him over and learn from him." Cackled Matthias.

"Sure, maybe in a week or two … once we've covered all the valuables and easily broken items in protective bubble wrap." Chuckled Donald.

Quadesh felt bliss. She was tucked up in her bed, teddy close at hand, feeling extra warmth due to a hot water bottle. Not only was she happily tucked up and rested her sleepy head on some comfy pillows, but for the first time in slightly over a month she was going to be read a bedtime story by her daddy.

"So, you all comfy and settled in?" Asked Mr Rustflower.

"And then some." Smiled Quadesh. "Ah, it feels so great to be home. Did you miss me?"

"Quadesh … it was much less fun without you in the house. Not to mention how many times I was scared you'd get hurt or voted out or even get yourself into trouble with the other kids." Murmured Mr Rustflower.

"Sorry for scaring you daddy." Apologised Quadesh.

"Don't worry about it my little winner; like with everything you do, you went above and beyond anything I could have expected, and in a good way. You put full effort into everything, you were able to make some close friends, you made good connections despite your slight social problems, you pulled off some really great game moves and … I'm just so proud of you." Said Mr Rustflower with a beaming smile.

Quadesh smiled, but then frowned a little.

"But … I didn't win. Aren't you disappointed?" Asked Quadesh quietly.

"Of course not." Assured Mr Rustflower. "There's a lot more to competitions than just winning. It's about having fun and maybe learning something while you competed. And, you experienced a lot of new things … like love."

Quadesh blushed.

"Too bad it didn't work out. I really thought me and Otis were meant to be." Sighed Quadesh. "Just another thing I was wrong about."

"Don't worry Quadesh, there's probably somebody else out there just as great as Otis, if not better. Who knows, you could even meet that person tomorrow. And … the way you comforted Otis in the final episode about that awful tragedy he went through … I've never been prouder to call you my daughter than at that moment. You're growing up from a little girl to a big girl, and your actions of the show prove it. You're gonna grow up to be a fine young lady, I am sure." Said Mr Rustflower as he ruffled his daughter's hair.

"… Thank you." Said Quadesh as she gave her daddy a hug. "Think I'll get asked back to an all stars season?"

"If Chris ever hosts one, I think you'd be a lock." Nodded Mr Rustflower. "So, what do you think you'll do with your prize money?"

"Well … you and mum have been really busy for a long time and I think you need a break, just the three of us as a family, so … how about we go on a vacation? We could go to Egypt; it's been soooo long since we last went there." Offered Quadesh.

Mr Rustflower smiled.

"Quadesh darling, I can't let you pay for a vacation for all of us. It's your money to spend on yourself." Insisted Mr Rustflower.

"It's my prize and it's my decision how to spend it, and I will spend some of it on a family vacation." Said Quadesh stubbornly.

"… I'm not gonna change your mind, am I?" Noted Mr Rustflower.

Quadesh folded her arms and nodded.

"… You're just like your mother; stubborn, but with a golden heart." Chuckled Mr Rustflower. "Ok, if you're sure that's what you want. But in the meantime, it's time for a bedtime story. What story do you want tonight?"

Quadesh pondered for a moment.

"… Can you make one up? I've got a small outline for you." Offered Quadesh.

"That's fine. What's it gonna be about?" Asked Mr Rustflower.

Quadesh looked slightly embarrassed.

"Can it be about Sir Otis saving Princess Quadesh from the evil Baron Maclean?" Asked Quadesh with a blush.

Mr Rustflower could only chuckle and smile.

"If that is what you want, then so it shall be." Nodded Mr Rustflower as he gathered his thoughts. "Once upon a time in the Kingdom of Wawanakwa, there was a beautiful and kind hearted princess named Quadesh Rustflower; the Kingdom loved her, and she loved all of her subjects and helped the King and Queen to rule them fairly. Some said that pure kindness ran through her veins instead of blood, some said she secretly liked romance novels … and some even said that she had a crush on Sir Otis, the son of a magnificent knight who had fallen in battle a few years prior."

The story went on for a full twenty minutes and Quadesh eagerly listen to it and enjoyed every second of it. Mr Rustflower was clearly enjoying telling a story to his daughter, and especially enjoyed how happy Quadesh looked. She was quite often a slightly moody and lonely child, so seeing her content, happy and smiling warmed his heart and made him feel like a good parent. Eventually the story was nearly over and Mr Rustflower was coming up to the end.

"With the evil Baron Maclean banished to the Place Devoid of the Number Nine the land was saved. Otis and Quadesh declared their love for each other and, as is common with love, it wasn't very long before they were going on dates, sharing a milkshake and even kissing in the empty ballroom when they thought nobody was around. Years passed, but their love never faltered for a moment. Life was good, and they all lived happily ever after … the end." Concluded Mr Rustflower.

Mr Rustflower than saw that Quadesh had fallen asleep; she seemed at peace, and was lightly drooling as she was prone to doing when she was sleeping. Mr Rustflower smiled.

"Sleep tight my little winner; second place, third place or last place, you're a winner to me." Whispered Mr Rustflower as he lightly gave Quadesh a gentle kiss on the forehead.

Mr Rustflower got up and quietly left Quadesh's bedroom, turning off the lights and closing the door behind him. Quadesh lightly rolled over, and smiled in her slumber.

"Mmmmm … Otis…" Mumbled Quadesh.

The sun was setting and the day was drawing to a close. A coach pulled to a stop on the sidewalk outside of a large building. The building was called the 'Heaven's Hope Orphanage' and seemed, though a nice and caring place to live, that it needed a few repairs here and there. The coach door opened up and Otis jumped out onto the sidewalk, gold case of his prize money in one hand and backpack of belongings on his back.

"Thanks for the ride." Called Otis. "Walking back isn't my style."

"No problem kid, but next time maybe you could, you know, not sing off key to the songs on the radio, even after it gets turned off." Requested the coach driver.

"No promises." Smirked Otis.

The coach door closed and the coach started to drive away. Otis meanwhile turned to the orphanage and exhaled.

"Looks like I'm home … I wonder if the others missed me." Pondered Otis. "Well, if I'm not mistaken about the days of the week, today is Taco Tuesday and I don't want to miss that. Hope they saved me a taco."

With enough being said Otis entered the archway into the yard of the orphanage and approached the front door. He tried to open the door, and found it was unlocked when it easily swung open.

"Home security these days." Said Otis in mock disapproval.

Otis closed the door behind him and made a beeline for the orphanage canteen; he could hear the chatter of the other orphans behind the door. Decided to make an entrance Otis slicked back his hair, straightened his shirt and took a breath.

BAM!

Otis kicked open the canteen door and entered the room confidently and as though nothing was amiss.

"Hello everybody! Guess who just become rich?!" Exclaimed Otis. "That's right, me!"

A huge applause greeted Otis along with several loud cheers and whistles. Several orphans ran up to him and started congratulating him.

"If you want an autograph you'll have to provide your own pen." Joked Otis.

"Dude, you did it! You won!" Exclaimed a boy.

"I never doubted you for a moment!" Cheered a girl.

"I kinda did." Admitted a boy quietly.

"We were cheering so loudly when we saw you win that the police had to come and tell us to be quiet." Added another girl. "Mrs Breezelee was too happy to scold us though; she was too busy almost crying in happiness and admiration."

"So … am I the local celebrity?" Asked Otis.

"Pretty much." Confirmed a young orphan. "People might want to sniff your hair now."

"… Well, I suppose it was inevitable really." Chuckled Otis. "Say, where's Mrs Breezelee? I kind of need to talk to her about something; I've had a genius idea on what to spend my prize money on."

"What's your idea? Bubble wrap?" Asked an orphan with a knowing chuckle.

"Nope; something even better." Assured Otis.

"Children, what is with all the noise and chatter?" Called a voice.

The orphans turned to the source of the voice; a ginger-haired kindly woman in her mid-fifties wearing an old fashioned dress entered the canteen. Her eyes lit up when she saw Otis.

"Otis! You're back!" Exclaimed Mrs Breezelee. "We've all missed you, and though it was quiet without you … we're glad to have you back."

"I missed all of you guys too." Admitted Otis. "But no time for happy tears and sappy reunions, I won! I'm rich!"

"So I noticed." Chuckled Mrs Breezelee. "Do you know what you might do with your prize?"

"I thought long and hard about it on the coach ride from the airport … I've decided there is only one logical thing that I can do, other than fixing up the orphanage a little." Said Otis cryptically.

"Well, don't leave us in suspense dearie. What will you be buying?" Asked Mrs Breezelee.

Otis gave a big grin.

"I'm gonna pay for every single one of us to have a kickass holiday in Disney Land!" Exclaimed Otis.

The orphans exploded into cheers of joy and Mrs Breezelee smiled warmly.

"Such selflessness and generosity. Otis, your family would be very proud." Said Mrs Breezelee with a kind smile.

As Otis was lifted up by the other orphans, who were all still cheering, he thought to himself. Years had gone by since the tragic accident and he didn't have too much to show for it. Several times he had been worried if his parents, and extended family, were proud of him or not. But now, after winning a huge chunk of money and judging by the genuinely happy smiles of his fellow orphans … maybe his parents had something to be proud of, wherever they were. His parents had always been the generous sort … and to Otis, it felt good to act as they would want.

Despite all the pain and sadness, Otis had managed to get on with his life after the accident … and that was what he was going to continue doing.

THE END

And on that bombshell, Total Drama Tweenabet has drawn to a close. What a wild ride it has been huh? With serious strategy, very grey and dubious morals, players coming close to snapping and all the unpredictability and craziness, this sure was a story to remember … well, maybe. Either way, it feels wonderful to finally finish another story.

I'll be putting up a journal on my DeviantArt page within 24 hours detailing my thoughts on the finalists and my reasoning for them making it so far, and also showing off 'what could have been' in the form of scrapped plots, beta elements, changes to boot order, beta pairings, removed idols and a whole lot more!

What will I be doing next? Well, it's been a long time coming … but I'll FINALLY be returning to my darkest story, Total Drama Tween Tour. But before I get stuck into Tween Tour, I'll be finishing episode 3 of Brains VS Brawns. Also on DeviantArt, I'll be revealing the 11 Tweenabet players returning for a future story called Total Drama: The Nowhere Islands, which will be a crossover between Tweenabet and Tween Tour … but more on that later.

I hope you've enjoyed reading this story as much as I have writing it. I do it all for you guys, the readers. Thanks for reading!

Specials Thanks

Asujoll- Thanks for all the awesome fan art and reviews, I appreciate it!

BaconBaka- Thanks for all the fan art and being a good friend. You sure helped me when I hit writers block sometimes.

Bad-Asp- As always, thanks for making the elimination chart.

Chlorofax- Thanks for the HUGE reviews you send me on DA, and all the cool trivia you find that I didn't even realise I was putting into the story.

DarkShockBro- You really were a big help in assisting me to get Tilly's character just right. I was unsure how I would go about writing certain parts, and I thank you for your contribution.

SoulfulGinger17- I appreciate your honest criticism, it really helped me improve and know what not to do next time. Thanks.

Xebla- Thanks for making the edgic, and major congratulations of correctly deducing Otis was the winner!

The Loyal Reviewers: If you left a review, thanks very much. I often reread them, and they always make me smile.

Everyone Else: If you read this story, be it out of curiosity, being a fan or wanting to see for yourself how bad it is, thank you.

This was Total Drama Tweenabet … I tweena-BET you'll be back for more!