Chapter Text
(Ottawa, Canada)
Two women, one in an orange professional dress, the other in a faded yellow, sat on the runway in an airport. The woman in orange had black hair tied up in a ponytail and wore a black skirt. She sat cross-legged on a producer's chair while her red-haired staff member with pink eyeliner, white sunglasses, and brown eyes applied makeup onto her face.
“Is everything ready, Emily?” She asked.
“Oh yeah, Miss Kristal!” Emily replied.
“Gather the crew! It’s time!” As Emily began to walk away, Kristal then turned to the camera crew, headed by a young man with a black afro and glasses. Like Emily, he too wore faded yellow.
She stood up, putting on a smile. “Welcome one and all, to Disventure Camp; All-Stars! You heard that right! We’re back with 27 of your favorite…and not so favorite…competitors! We’re just about to pick each of them up from all over the world in this private jet! Once they’re all onboard, they will be flown back to Camp Tipiskaw. Where they will spend the next 8 weeks…or however long they survive. It’s been 3 years since that…interesting…first season, 2 years since our second, and 1 year since our largest and most recent season! Imagine just what shenanigans our contestants have gotten up to.”
The camera panned as Kristal began walking over to the Jet. “Who will be competing in our biggest season yet? And, more importantly, what the hell have they been doing all this time? Only one way to find out! Right here! Right now! On Disventure Camp; All-Stars!”
A brisk Ottawa morning wind swept across the small private airstrip as Jake stood near the runway, tugging nervously at the sleeves of his hoodie. His pink-and-black jacket did little to calm him, and the way he shifted his weight from foot to foot made it obvious he’d rather be anywhere else.
Beside him stood Miriam, arms crossed, posture straight, expression unimpressed, wearing a green Hawaiian shirt with white polka dots. Age had not softened her presence in the slightest. If anything, the years had only sharpened her glare.
A few steps behind them lingered Dan, hands tucked into the pockets of his purple sweatshirt, watching the jet with a quiet, unreadable expression. He looked calmer than Jake, but that calm carried a hint of distance, like someone bracing themselves for something they weren’t sure they wanted.
Jake glanced back at him, then leaned closer to Miriam.
“Are we…sure about this?” he muttered. “Like, really sure?”
Miriam didn’t look at him.
“If you ask me that one more time, dear, I’ll personally shove you onto the plane myself.”
Jake swallowed. “I’m just saying, last time didn’t exactly end well for anyone.”
“That’s called an experience,” Miriam replied dryly. “You only get wiser if you survive it.”
Dan let out a small, amused huff from behind them.
“She’s got a point. You’re still breathing, aren’t you?”
Jake turned. “Barely.”
Before Dan could reply, a familiar voice rang out across the runway.
“Look at this Ottawa’s finest reunion!”
Kristal stepped forward, clipboard in hand, heels clicking sharply against the pavement. She smiled, but it was the kind of smile that promised trouble.
“Well, I’ll be damned,” she continued. “If it isn’t our favorite unlikely trio, Jake, Miriam, and Dan. Didn’t think I’d be seeing all three of you here again.”
Jake forced a smile. “Y-yeah. Surprise?”
Miriam raised her chin.
“Let’s not pretend this wasn’t inevitable, Kristal. You don’t run an All-Stars season without inviting the woman who won the first one.”
Dan glanced between them. “And I assume I’m here as…what, emotional support?”
Kristal smirked, “Oh, please. You’re here because the fans never stopped arguing about you.”
Dan blinked. “That’s…concerning.”
Kristal turned her attention back to Miriam. “I’ll be honest, we had some discussions in the producers’ room about calling you back. Three years is a long time, and well…” She gestured vaguely. “You are seventy-six.”
Miriam scoffed. “And yet I outlasted people half my age without receiving a single vote. Funny how that works.”
Jake nodded a little too fast. “She’s tougher than she looks. And sounds. And acts.”
“Jake,” Miriam said calmly, “I am exactly as tough as I look.”
Kristal laughed softly. “Well, the fans will be thrilled. And nervous. Go ahead, all of you, board the plane.”
As they walked up the steps, Jake hesitated, counting under his breath.
“…Twenty-seven seats,” he muttered. “That means…”
Dan paused behind him. “Means we’re not the only ghosts getting dragged out of the past.”
Jake took a seat beside Miriam, gripping the armrest. Dan slid into the row across from them, folding his arms.
Jake leaned closer again. “Miriam…we can still leave. No one’s forcing us.”
Miriam turned slowly, eyes narrowing. “Have you lost your mind? I didn’t come all this way just to back out because you’re having second thoughts.”
“I’m not having second thoughts,” Jake said weakly. “I’m having…all the thoughts.”
Dan smirked faintly. “Trust me, Jake. If this were a mistake, we’d already feel it.”
Jake frowned. “That doesn’t help.”
As the plane door shut, Jake’s mind drifted back to the pre-season interview.
Jake and Miriam’s Pregame Interview
“Hello, Miriam!” Emily chirped from behind the camera. “The fans have been dying to know, what did you do with the million dollars you won?”
“I bought a beachfront house,” Miriam replied without hesitation. “And helped Jake get back on his feet.”
Emily turned to him. “You don’t live with your parents anymore?”
Jake stiffened. “No. And I don’t plan on going back.”
“The audience loved the bond you two shared,” Emily continued. “Do you still keep in touch?”
“All the time,” Jake said quickly. “We’re practically neighbors now.”
Emily cleared her throat. “Right. Jake, people are wondering. Why haven’t you mentioned Tom?”
Jake’s jaw tightened. “Next. Question.”
Miriam sighed.
Dan’s Pregame Interview
“Dan,” Emily began, tablet in hand, “there’s been a lot of discussion since your original season.”
Dan nodded. “Yeah. I’ve seen it.”
Emily didn’t soften the question. “A recurring criticism is that you didn’t make an impact. No big moves. No signature moment. Some fans have even called you…forgettable.”
Dan exhaled slowly. “I get why they’d say that,” he replied. “I didn’t come in trying to leave a mark. I came in trying not to screw up.”
Emily tilted her head. “And that strategy didn’t get you the win.”
“No,” Dan said. “Because playing it safe only works until it doesn’t.”
There was a pause.
“So why come back?” Emily asked. “Why risk proving them right?”
Dan thought for a moment.
“Because I know now that just lasting isn’t enough,” he said. “Even if you survive, someone else still gets credit.”
Emily leaned forward slightly. “So what changes this time?”
Dan hesitated just a bit.
“I don’t know yet,” he admitted. “But I know I can’t play the same way.”
Emily raised an eyebrow. “That’s not exactly a plan.”
Dan shrugged.
“Maybe not. But it’s the first time I’ve come in willing to be wrong.”
Emily smiled faintly. “Final question. What would success look like for you this season?”
Dan looked toward the camera, more serious now.
“If people remember why I went home,” he said. “Not just when.”
The camera lingered as he stood up, adjusting his jacket.
“And if I mess up,” he added quietly, “at least it’ll be my mess.”
“Oh dear,” she muttered. “Here we go again.”
(Airplane Cabins)
Back in the present, the plane engines roared to life.
Jake exhaled shakily. “…This is a bad idea.”
Miriam smiled just barely. “Then it’s going to make excellent television.”
Kristal checked her watch, annoyed, before she heard heavy footsteps. She looked up as another man sprinted up to her. He had a bunch of scars across his face and messy black hair with turquoise eyes. He wore a navy hoodie, and brown overcoat, and blue cargo pants. The man skidded to a halt in front of her.
“Finally.” She grunted. “Jake’s ex-boyfriend and also ex-secret agent, Tom! Now, what took you so long?! Aren’t spies supposed to be…fast?”
“Sorry! Met a familiar face at TSA. We were officers in training together and…”
"Did I ask?" Kristal snapped.
"Uh...Yeah..." Tom muttered.
“Just get on the damn plane! We’re behind schedule!”
Tom shifted uncomfortably; the hosts of his season were admittedly not as good of people as Kristal was, but that was a whole different can of worms.
He boarded the plane, spying two unfamiliar faces sitting on the right side, and, as he approached his seat…
“Oh?! Tom!” He nervously shuddered as Jake’s voice entered his ear. “Um…I…how have you been?”
“A call to ask how we were doing wouldn’t have hurt, you know?” Miriam crossed her arms.
“Sorry.” Tom rubbed his head. “My mind’s been occupied with work and…other matters…but we’ll talk later.”
Tom’s Pregame Interview
“So, Tom, it’s been 3 years since you last competed on this show.” Emily crossed her arms as she held him in the booth. “Doesn’t seem like you and Jake have been keeping up despite your promise at the end of the season.”
He shifted uncomfortably. “What happened between me and Jake is private.” He looked over at the camera. "No more questions."
(New York City, New York)
The city buzzed around them, sirens in the distance, traffic humming, but the private airstrip felt strangely insulated from it all.
Hunter, a boy with slick black hair, gray attire, and a skull necklace, looked calm, leaning against a railing. He had one foot crossed over the other and his hands tucked casually into his jacket pockets. He looked composed. Too composed.
To his left, Ally, a girl with long brown hair tied up into a ponytail, wearing a white shirt with an 8-bit video game creature and tight leggings, stood close enough that her shoulder brushed his arm, her hand occasionally finding his wrist without thinking. Familiar. Comfortable.
On his right, Tess, a girl with black hair tied into a bun, with two strands of hair going down her sides. She wore a white undershirt below her black crop top and skirt, with an orange sweater wrapped around her waist and pale black tights that slightly exposed her legs. She too rested against the railing too, posture relaxed, eyes alert. She clocked everything the spacing, the silence, the way Hunter’s gaze lingered just a beat too long when someone approached.
A few steps away, Ellie and Gabby stood together. Ellie had on a blue button-up shirt with a grey jacket and a skirt with leggings, with her orange hair being tied into a half-bun. Gabby had long dark brown hair with a ribbon in her and was wearing a red long sleeve shirt.
Gabby was mid-laugh, gesturing wildly about something only half-coherent, while Ellie listened with that calm, knowing smile she wore when she felt in control of a room.
Ellie’s eyes flicked up. Just once.
Hunter met her gaze.
Neither of them smiled.
The moment passed as quickly as it came, but Tess saw it. She didn’t react. Not outwardly.
Instead, she smiled at Ellie when she wandered over. “Didn’t think you’d come back,” Tess said lightly.
Ellie shrugged. “Didn’t think I’d be asked. Guess the universe disagreed.”
Gabby grinned. “I told her it was destiny. Or masochism.”
Ellie snorted softly.
Just then, commotion could be heard from afar.
“I’m not…sure…if I…can…do this,” Hannah uttered, wearing a purple shirt and blue overalls.
“We can always turn back,” Logan responded, hoping to lift Hannah’s spirits, wearing a blue varsity jacket and blue jeans.
Kristal’s voice rang out across the runway.
“New York City, always dramatic!”
She approached with her clipboard, eyes gleaming. “Ellie. Gabby. Hunter. Ally. Tess. Hannah. Logan.”
At the sound of her name, “Absolutely not,” Hannah muttered.
She paced near the edge of the group, arms folded tightly as Logan followed half a step behind, hands raised in surrender.
“I told you,” Logan said gently, “we could just leave.”
“And do what?” Hannah snapped. “Heal?”
Ellie smirked.
Kristal gestured toward the jet. “Boarding time, everyone. Interviews first, of course.”
Hunter, Tess, and Ally's Pregame Interview
The three sat side by side.
Emily smiled brightly. “So! The internet’s favorite trio. Still… together?”
Ally nodded. “Still together.”
Tess added smoothly, “And still communicating.”
Hunter glanced at both of them before answering. “We’ve learned a lot.”
Emily leaned in. “Any concerns about adding pressure?”
Tess smiled softly. “Pressure reveals cracks. Or it proves strength.”
Hunter exhaled. “Either way, we’ll deal with it.”
Ally reached for Hunter’s hand.
He squeezed back.
Emily glanced down at her tablet, scrolling.
“One more thing,” she said. “Fans have been…divided about a specific move from Season 2.”
Hunter’s expression didn’t change. Ally’s shoulders tensed slightly. Tess already knew what was coming.
“You three used Yul as a shield,” Emily continued. “You kept him around despite his behavior, knowing he’d draw votes and attention
away from you. Some viewers called it smart. Others called it morally questionable.”
She looked up. “Any regrets?”
There was a beat of silence.
Ally spoke first.
“…Yeah,” she said quietly. “I do.”
Emily tilted her head. “About the strategy?”
“About the person,” Ally clarified. “At the time, despite being uncomfortable with his presence and wanting him gone, I was persuaded into believing it was just a game. That we weren’t responsible for him.” She exhaled. “But watching it back? I hated how long we let it go on.”
Tess nodded in agreement. “I regret not pushing harder to cut him sooner,” she said. “Strategically, it worked. Emotionally… it sat wrong. Especially knowing who he hurt.”
Emily turned to Hunter.
“And you?”
Hunter didn’t answer right away. He leaned back slightly in his chair, fingers interlaced.
“Yul’s an awful person,” he said plainly. “I won’t pretend otherwise.”
Ally glanced at him.
“But,” Hunter continued, “that move bought us time. And time is everything in this game.”
Emily raised an eyebrow. “Even at that cost?”
Hunter met her gaze.
“If we cut him early,” he said, “we don’t get as far as we did. We don’t get space to trust each other. Hell…” he paused, choosing his words, “...we might not even be sitting here together right now.”
Tess frowned slightly. “That doesn’t mean it was right.”
“I didn’t say it was,” Hunter replied. “I said it was necessary.”
The tension lingered for a moment.
Emily broke it gently. “So would you do it again?”
Hunter hesitated, just long enough to matter.
“I’d like to say no,” he said. “But if it meant protecting them?” He glanced briefly toward Ally, then Tess. “I don’t know.”
Ally looked down at her hands.
Tess watched Hunter closely, expression unreadable.
Emily smiled, professional but sharp. “Sounds like Season 4 might test that answer.”
Hunter exhaled through his nose. “Yeah. I figure.”
The camera cut as the three sat in silence, together, but no longer entirely aligned.
Hannah and Logan's Pregame Interview
Hannah stared straight ahead.
Emily smiled nervously. “You two came back together.”
“That was a mistake,” Hannah replied flatly.
Logan blinked. “Hannah…”
“I love him,” she added quickly. “I just hate this environment.”
Emily nodded. “So… unresolved?”
Hannah sighed. “That’s one word for it.”
Emily added. “Fans have been dying to know what you’ve been up to since your season ended.”
“A gentleman doesn’t..,” Logan uttered before being interrupted by Hannah.
“We’ve been taking things slowly, but I’ll definitely say that Logan is definitely someone I’m happy to have in my life.” Hannah said smiling.
Emily flipped through her notes and looked up.
“There’s one moment from Carnival of Chaos fans still talk about. Logan, the night you lied, Zaid ended up being eliminated after you framed him for leaking information to Isabel. Part of the reason you did it was because Amelie was blackmailing you. she knew you were the one who actually leaked the info. Hannah, when Amelie revealed everything to you later, the criticism from fans is that you seemed more upset about Amelie being eliminated than about Logan lying about Zaid. How do you both reflect on that now?”
Logan’s smile faltered slightly, and he ran a hand through his hair.
“Well… look, I…I was cornered that night. Amelie had leverage, I made a choice to protect myself. I apologized afterward. I know I messed up, but…” His voice wavered a bit, and the polished “golden boy” confidence he usually exudes was noticeably off.
Hannah’s eyes narrowed, her jaw tightening.
“Emily, why do you keep pressing this? Why dredge all that up right now? Logan already said what happened. I don’t need to sit here and relive every little detail just for your story!”
Logan blinked, clearly uncomfortable, unsure how to react to Hannah’s sudden sharp tone.
“Uh… okay, yeah, I mean…I get it. I’m not trying to…”
Hannah cut him off again, more sharply. “No, you don’t have to say anything, Logan! This isn’t about you right now. Emily, I just…I hate how the fans, and now you, make it feel like we’re supposed to replay this mistake endlessly. People got hurt, sure, but we’re not just props for your questions.”
Emily raised her hands slightly, taken aback, but nodded. “Fair enough, Hannah. I just wanted to get perspective…”
Hannah shook her head, exhaling sharply. “Perspective? Sometimes a question isn’t worth asking if it only stirs up tension. Let’s move on.”
Logan slumped back slightly, his polished persona still cracking, but relieved not to be the target of the anger. “Yeah… alright. Let’s move on,” he murmured.
Emily nodded, scribbling something down, while Hannah’s glare lingered for a moment before softening, signaling she was done letting the interviewer control the narrative.
Gabby and Ellie's Pregame Interview
“Ellie, we have insider info that your fellow competitors are not so happy about what you said in your post-game interviews. How do you feel about that?” Emily asked.
“It’s been almost three years.” she replied to Emily as Gabby looked at her. “It’s time for them to get over it, besides, I didn’t say anything THAT bad.”
Emily slyly grinned as she pointed to a camera. Which began to play various clips of her.
“I heard Tom still ignores Jake’s calls! Can you blame him? Dealing with Jake should count as community service, you saw how much of a crybaby he was! And Tom’s no better, he’s a complete idiot? What moron goes on International TV as a spy.”
“Miriam didn’t deserve to win. I mean, you all saw what she did to me, faking her own death just to test my sympathy, because she knew she couldn’t beat me fairly? We both fell for that demon child’s tricks and I was willing to drop everything to save her and let that freak show win! She’s twisted, if it happens again, I’m sure no one would be surprised if I let her go towards the light.”
“My original purple team was a disaster. Not only did they vote out Gabby immediately because she bad mouthed that rich douche, but they were all complete morons to not see the Demon Child’s true nature immediately. Ashley was the biggest fool of them. Alec and I knew from the start. But I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, Ashley lives on a farm in southern Texas, her intelligence must match her home life.”
“Grett might be, quite honestly, the worst person I’ve ever met! And I was on a team with a literal Demon Child who crawled out of hell! I’ve heard she’s flipped things around recently, but I’m sure that’s all an act. Especially if the rumors of who she’s dating are true.”
“Alec literally told that demon child that he wished his son was more like her? I mean who DOES THAT? First off, his standards for children are alarming if the demonic six year old is
what you want. And second, I don’t blame your wife for leaving you and taking the son. You deserve it after all the shit you and the demon child put me through!”
“The Demon Child?! Please, why should I care about her? I mean, you all saw that season? That’s not a child, that’s a psychopath in the making. I only worked with her because I wasn’t going to get in with Ashley’s alliance, and I needed that money badly. Not making the same mistake twice. Not that I need to worry, she wasn’t even on the cast list.”
“Er…maybe you went a little overboard.” Gabby said, placing a hand on her shoulder as she looked back at those interviews.
She twiddled her thumbs for a bit before shrugging. “Well, you know we needed the money from those interviews.” she replied to Gabby. “If we want to continue to be together, we’re going to need the money. Besides, you know those people too, it’s not like what I said wasn’t true. It’s harsh, but they all need to hear it, especially Jake.”
(Airplane Cabins)
As the group moved toward the plane, Ellie fell into step beside Tess. “Glad you’re here,” Ellie said quietly. “Makes it less… predictable.”
Tess nodded. “Just don’t make it complicated.”
Ellie met her eyes. “I never do.”
A step behind them, Hunter climbed the stairs.
Ellie didn’t look at him again. But she didn’t need to.
Behind them, Ally slowed just slightly, just enough to notice the space opening where Ellie wasn’t standing anymore.
And Tess glanced back. Watching.
The cabin door slid shut with a muted thunk as the New York group filed into the jet.
Jake looked up first.
“Oh…uh…hey,” he said, half-standing before immediately sitting back down. “You guys…made it.”
Gabby waved enthusiastically. “Jake! It’s so weird seeing you in three dimensions again!”
Ellie’s eyes flicked briefly to him. “Hi, Jake.”
His shoulders stiffened. “…Hi.”
Miriam adjusted her glasses, assessing the newcomers like pieces on a chessboard. “Well,” she said dryly, “this just got louder.”
Dan leaned back in his seat, arms crossed. “So this is where the chaos section starts.”
Hannah paused in the aisle. “Is this seat taken?”
Dan gestured lazily. “Emotionally? Yes. Physically? No.”
Hannah blinked. “Okay.”
She dropped into the seat with a huff, Logan following close behind.
“Oh sorry,” Logan said politely to Jake as he squeezed past. “Didn’t mean to…”
“It’s fine,” Jake replied quickly. “I don’t own the aisle.”
Logan smiled faintly. “Good to know.”
Hunter scanned the cabin, then nodded toward Miriam. “Didn’t expect to see you again.”
Miriam smiled thinly. “And yet here I am. Still standing. Still winning.”
Miriam’s gaze shifted, sharp but approving, as she looked between Hunter, Ally, and Tess.
“I will say this,” she added. “You three were my favorites from your season. Smart, adaptable, and you knew when to play loud and when to disappear. That’s rarer than people think.”
Hunter blinked, clearly caught off guard, before offering a small, genuine smile.
“Coming from you? That actually means a lot. Thanks, Miriam.”
She waved him off with a huff. “Don’t thank me yet. Favorites still lose all the time.”
Hunter chuckled. “Fair enough.”
Tess stepped in smoothly, placing her bag overhead before sitting beside Ally.
“Jake,” she said warmly. “It’s good to see you.”
“Yeah,” Jake said, voice softer. “You too.”
Ellie lingered near the aisle just long enough for Dan to notice.
“So,” Dan said casually, eyes half-lidded, “this where we pretend nothing’s changed?”
Ellie met his gaze. “I don’t pretend.”
Dan smiled faintly. “Right. Forgot who I was talking to.”
Gabby plopped down across from Jake and Miriam, kicking her feet lightly.
“Wow,” she said. “This plane already feels tense.”
“That’s because you’re sitting near the unresolved trauma section,” Miriam replied.
Jake coughed. “Hey!”
Hannah leaned across the aisle. “She’s not wrong.”
Ellie finally took a seat diagonal from Hunter, not beside him. Not far.
Ally noticed.
“So,” Ally said brightly, breaking the silence, “anyone else feel like this is a bad idea?”
Dan nodded. “Oh, absolutely.”
Jake raised a hand halfway. “Yeah.”
Miriam scoffed. “Nonsense. Bad ideas make excellent stories.”
Hunter leaned back, eyes forward. “Guess we’ll see who lasts.”
Ellie crossed her legs, voice calm. “Usually the people who pay attention.”
Hunter glanced at her.
Just for a second.
Dan caught it and looked away.
As the jet began to taxi, the cabin settled into a quiet hum: no arguments, no explosions.
Just people realizing they were trapped together again.
And that this time?
They wouldn’t all leave the same way.
(Las Vegas, Nevada)
Neon lights bled into the desert night, flashing and flickering as a private jet landed at the edge of a quiet Las Vegas airstrip.
Ted stood alone.
Designer Tuxedo. Immaculate hair. Sunglasses on…even though it was nearly midnight.
He didn’t pace. He didn’t fidget. He waited.
Kristal approached first, heels echoing sharply against the concrete.
“Well,” she said lightly, “if it isn’t the man of the hour.”
Ted smiled but it was tight. Practiced.
“Let’s not pretend I wasn’t always the man of the hour,” he replied. “You just didn’t know how to handle me.”
Kristal raised an eyebrow. “Funny. Last time, a lot of people would say you lost control.”
Ted’s smile didn’t falter but something behind his eyes did.
“I trusted the wrong people,” he said evenly. “That won’t be happening again.”
Kristal circled him slowly, like a producer sizing up a headline.
“You humiliated yourself on national television, Ted.”
He finally took off his sunglasses.
His eyes were sharp. Alert. Angry but contained.
“No,” he corrected. “I was humiliated by people who couldn’t beat me honestly.”
Kristal tilted her head. “And how does that change things this time?”
Ted stepped toward the jet.
“This time,” he said, “I know the difference between playing the game and playing to win.”
As Ted boarded the plan, the cabin was already half-full when the door opened again.
Conversation died immediately. Jake looked up first and froze. “…Oh,” he quietly uttered.
Miriam’s lips thinned. “Well. That explains the remaining seat.”
Ted paused just inside the doorway, scanning the room like a king returning to a throne he believed was stolen from him.
His gaze flicked over faces. Some familiar. Some new.
He smiled wider with every second.
“Well,” Ted said pleasantly, “this is disappointing.”
Hannah scoffed under her breath. “Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me.”
Hunter straightened slightly.
Ellie didn’t react at all.
Ted’s eyes landed on Logan.
And lingered.
Just a bit too long. Logan shifted uncomfortably.
Ted chuckled.
“Relax. I’m not here for you.”
Logan didn’t look convinced.
Ted moved down the aisle, stopping briefly beside Jake.
“Still here?” Ted asked. “That’s… adorable.”
Jake swallowed. “Some of us didn’t need to cheat people to make it back.”
Ted leaned in just slightly. “Some of us didn’t need help.”
Miriam’s cane tapped sharply against the floor.
“That’s enough,” she said coolly. “Find your seat.”
Ted straightened. He looked at her.
Then unexpectedly he nodded.
“Respect,” he said. “You earned yours.”
He took the last open seat, across the aisle from Logan.
Behind him, the door sealed shut.
Ted’s Pregame Interview
Emily’s microphone hovered near Ted as the cameras rolled. “Ted, last time you were the second person sent home. How do you plan to make a bigger impact this season?”
Ted smirked faintly, adjusting his jacket. “Let’s just say… I’ve learned a lot since then. I know my rank didn’t exactly impress anyone, but this time, I’m not here to be underestimated.”
Emily raised an eyebrow. “So you have a strategy?”
“Of course,” Ted replied, leaning slightly closer to the camera. “But I don’t reveal my moves before the game starts. You’ll just have to wait and see.”
“Fair enough,” Emily said with a teasing smile. “We’ll be watching closely.”
Ted smirked, “I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
(Airplane Cabins)
Back in the cabin, Logan leaned toward Hannah, whispering, “I don’t like him.”
Hannah whispered back, “No one does. That’s the problem.”
Across the aisle, Ted leaned back comfortably like someone who had already decided how this would end.
And was willing to make everyone else pay for it. The cabin lights had dimmed.
Most of the contestants were settled in, conversations quiet and scattered. The jet hummed steadily, almost soothingly.
Dan sat stiffly by the window, arms folded. He hadn’t spoken much since boarding.
Ted noticed. Ted always noticed
He unbuckled calmly and stood, stretching as if casually killing time. He walked down the aisle and stopped beside Dan’s row.
“Mind if I sit?” Ted asked pleasantly.
Dan hesitated. “I guess.”
Ted slipped into the empty seat beside him, careful to angle his body slightly away non-threatening. Respectful. A trick.
“So,” Ted said softly, eyes forward. “First time back since… everything.”
Dan exhaled sharply. “Yeah.”
“They didn’t even want me here at first,” Dan added, unprompted. “This whole season almost didn’t happen for me.”
Ted nodded, as if this confirmed something he already knew. “Figured,” Ted replied.
Dan turned. “What do you mean?”
Ted waved a hand lightly. “Oh nothing bad. Just…production worries. Narrative stuff.”
Dan frowned. “Narrative stuff?”
Ted leaned back, voice still calm.
“You didn’t merge,” he said. “You’re not tied to a big rivalry. No scandal. No romance. No villain arc.”
Dan stiffened. “That doesn’t mean any…”
“No, no,” Ted interrupted gently. “It means you’re clean.”
Dan blinked.
“And clean players,” Ted continued, “are… expandable.”
Dan swallowed.
“I don’t…”
“They don’t need you long,” Ted said, not unkindly. “Just long enough to remind the audience you exist.”
Silence stretched.
Dan stared at the seatback in front of him. “So what, I’m just filler?”
Ted tilted his head.
“I didn’t say that,” he replied. “I said you’re expendable unless you give them something.”
Dan looked back at him, voice lower now. “Something like what?”
Ted smiled
“A decision,” he said. “A name. A vote that surprises people.”
Dan shook his head. “I don’t want to screw anyone over.”
Ted nodded immediately. “Of course you wouldn’t. And you have every right not to do so,” he said. “That’s the funny part.”
He leaned in slightly, voice dropping.
“People assume betrayal looks loud. Emotional. Ugly.”
Dan listened despite himself.
“But the cleanest moves?” Ted continued. “They look responsible. Logical. Even kind.”
Ted stood, smoothing his jacket.
“Just… something to think about.”
He stepped back into the aisle.
“Oh,” he added casually, “if you ever want to talk about who won’t protect you in a vote?”
Dan looked up.
Ted smiled. “I’m very good at reading the room.”
He walked away.
Dan stared at his hands.
Jake laughed somewhere nearby.
Miriam chatted with Hannah.
Dan didn’t join them.
Instead, he glanced around the cabin… counting alliances, noticing distance for the first time.
CONFESSIONAL: DAN
“I don’t trust Ted,” Dan said immediately.
A pause. “But he didn’t lie.”
CONFESSIONAL: TED
Ted folded his hands, relaxed.
“I didn’t ask for loyalty,” he said. “I didn’t offer protection.”
He smiled faintly.
“I just told him the truth sooner than production would.”
He leaned closer to the camera.
“And now,” he said, “the seeds of doubt have been planted.”
(Hollywood, California)
The private airstrip shimmered under the late afternoon California sun, paparazzi flashes catching every move. A sleek black SUV rolled to a stop, and a tall, neatly-dressed man with confident grey hair stepped out.
“Connor!” Riya exclaimed, striding out after him, perfectly poised. Her designer sunglasses reflected the cameras, and her red coat swirled dramatically as she walked.
Connor adjusted his jacket. “Riya, you know you’re making the rest of us look like amateurs.”
“I’ve got to maintain my image, don’t I?” she replied with a smirk.
Just then, two younger figures jogged up from the side. Zaid, in his signature chief attire that clashed with the glitz around him, and Benji, carrying a camera bag that looked far too heavy for him while wearing a white button-up shirt with his signature long orange sleeve shirt over it.
“Oi!” Benji said while carrying the bag, nearly tripping over his own feet. “Hollywood, baby! Smell that? That’s the smell of overpriced ambition!”
Zaid rolled his eyes, elbowing him. “Focus, man. This isn’t a joke. You know what happened last season when you treated the game like a circus.”
Riya’s eyes narrowed. “Wait, are you two together? Because I am not dealing with whatever this is on the plane.”
“Relax,” Zaid said, brushing past her. “It’s just me and my friend Benji. And maybe a little mischief along the way.”
Benji tried to interject, grinning sheepishly. “Hey, I like being the jokester, okay? Somebody’s gotta balance out Zaid’s doom-and-gloom energy.”
Connor cleared his throat, gesturing toward the plane. “Alright, everyone, we’ve got to get on. It’s about to take off, and trust me, the rest of the gang is already getting restless up there.”
As they stepped onto the jet, a familiar voice called from the tarmac. Tristan and Ivy appeared, waving exuberantly.
“Good luck, you guys!” Tristan shouted.
“Play nice!” Ivy added, though her tone carried an edge when it landed on Zaid. “And Zaid…don’t start anything with Riya again.”
Zaid smirked but shot back quickly. “I don’t start things, Ivy. I just finished them.”
Benji whispered loudly to no one in particular: “Oh man…this is going to be entertaining.”
Riya’s eyes darted between Zaid and Ivy. “You two have got to be kidding me. I cannot believe this is my life right now. I seriously have to share my grand entrance with these lowlifes when I’m The Villain of TV Dammit!”
“A cartoonish villain with over-convoluted strategies at that,” Benji muttered.
“You’re one to talk strategy you walking flop machine,” Riya furiously responded.
Connor grabbed her arm. “Ignore the drama, Riya. This is a game, and if you keep your focus, you can handle it. Trust me, you’ve done worse before.”
(Airplane Cabins)
“Hey hey! Cool Cats! How’s it going!” Connor asked as he and Riya entered the plane.
“Connor, my man.” Hunter walked up to him and fist bumped him. “Glad you’re here. I would’ve thought you wouldn’t be able to qualify.”
“Hehe, Yeah I thought so too, but when the producers heard Rosa couldn’t come back, they decided to get me instead, Riya put in a request for it.”
“Move aside.” Riya pushed past the two of them and began her strut down the aisle before she stopped at Gabby and Ellie.
“Oh my gosh! Riya!” Gabby cheered, making her wince, the girl had that…commoner squeaky voice she despised in fans. “I’m a huge fan! I just watched Black Widow’s Gambit! You were amazing. Congrats on the Emmy award!
“It should’ve come sooner, but I'll accept it from those hacks at the academy.”
The cabin buzzed with overlapping conversations when the plane door opened again.
“Brace yourselves,” someone muttered from the aisle.
Zaid stepped on first, shoulders squared, eyes already narrowed like he was bracing for impact. Benji followed half a step behind, immediately scanning the faces around him.
“Oh wow,” Benji said. “This is either a competition show or a group therapy session that went horribly wrong.”
A few people snorted.
Gabby’s head snapped up instantly. “Oh my gosh, hi! You guys made it!” she exclaimed, practically bouncing out of her seat.
Benji pointed at her. “See? Friendly face. I like her already.”
Gabby grinned. “I’m Gabby! You’re Zaid and Benji, right? From Carnival of Chaos?”
Zaid nodded once, not smiling. “Yeah. Back again. Didn’t think they’d let us.”
Benji elbowed him lightly. “Don’t scare the nice lady, Master Chief. We’re here for fun… mostly.”
Ellie, sitting a few rows back with Tess, whispered to Tess, “They’re kind of intense, aren’t they?”
Tess shrugged. “You get used to it, this is the way I felt about Ally at first.”
Gabby tilted her head. “So… wait, you two were part of the Vibe Tribe last time, right?”
Zaid bit down on his lip. “Yeah. But Carnival of Chaos… didn’t exactly go as planned.”
Benji waved a hand. “Long story short, we got kicked out in style. But hey, we made it here anyway. And yes, Tristan and Ivy send their love.”
Gabby laughed nervously. “Oh! Tristan and Ivy… I can imagine the drama.”
Benji grinned. “Drama is our middle name. Or, you know, my middle name might actually be Snacks. I could really use one of those right about now!”
Zaid shot him a look. “Keep it together, Benjinator.”
Gabby leaned in conspiratorially. “So… Do you think you guys are going to team up with anyone on the plane? Or are you flying solo?”
Zaid smirked faintly. “We’ll see how long everyone lasts first. Can’t make alliances if they’re already in the dirt.”
Benji clapped him on the shoulder. “Speak for yourself, Master Chief! I’m making friends already.”
Gabby laughed. “I like him.”
Ellie watched quietly, noting how Benji’s lightheartedness contrasted Zaid’s intensity.
Benji and Zaid's Pregame Interview
Emily leaned forward, microphone in hand, a sly grin spreading across her face. “Alright, gentlemen…Benji and Zaid welcome back! Let’s start with you, Zaid. What exactly happened with the Vibe Tribe after Carnival of Chaos?”
Zaid folded his arms. “We went on a little post-season vacation. Tristan and Ivy came along, and…well, things got a bit heated at times.”
Benji jumped in, waving his hands. “Yeah, someone had to keep the peace! Zaid and Ivy had a few clashes, and I was stuck in the middle. Trust me, it was chaotic.”
Emily laughed. “Sounds like trouble! And Benji, did you survive it all?”
Benji grinned. “Physically, yes. Mentally we’ll see. But I’m here to provide the jokes and maybe a little unexpected strategy.”
Zaid smirked. “Mostly jokes, yes…for now.”
Emily shook her head, laughing. “Well, fans are in for a ride. Good luck, you’re going to need it!”
Connor and Riya's Pregame Interview
“Connor, what do you think of Riya’s little personality online?” Emily asked.
“Though it’s a bit harsh. I’m happy Riya was able to get so accomplished on her own,” Connor responded.
“Ah, the internet’s been dying to know what happened? Are you two a couple?” Emily added.
“It’s a bit complicated, but yes.” Connor replied. Not noticing Riya’s conflicted look at the question. “As you heard, Riya’s been busy shooting film after film, and I’ve been busy improving my perfume company. So we’re hoping this All-star thing could be good opportunity for us.”
(Mexico City, Mexico)
A young German girl in a navy sweater and black shorts. waited anxiously next to her young teen mom friend, Rosa, a fair skinned mexican with dark violet hair, a green crop top and blue jeans. She held onto her daughter Sofia, who looked just like her.
As the plane landed, she turned to her friend and her daughter, brushing some hair out of her red wig. “Adiós girls! I’ll see you when I get back.”
“Good luck Aunty-Lake!” Sofia squeaked.
“Be careful who you trust this time, Lake.” Rosa replied.
“I’m sorry you can’t participate this time Rosa. It’ll be hard dealing with Riya.”
“I know but I couldn’t leave Sofia again. You will represent us both. And do me a favor, kick Yul in the nuts.”
Lake giggled as she hugged Rosa goodbye and walked on the plane.
(Airplane Cabins)
“Tess! How’s it going!” Lake excitedly asked.
“Hey Lake. A little busy with my arts courses, but otherwise just excited for this mini vacation.”
“Lake! Nice to finally meet you!” she looked at the boy she recognized as Jake from Season 1, “I read one of your books! The one about the prince and knight! I absolutely loved it,” Jake said enthusiastically.
“The pleasure is mine, though it wouldn’t have been as successful without Tess’ illustrations!”
Lake's Pregame Interview
“Lake, first of all I must congratulate you on the award winning novel, especially at such a young age. Only 19.”
“Oh, it’s nothing.” She replied to Emily.
“I see, you were the fan favorite of your season, after Tess of course, fans were heartbroken to see you get eliminated the way you did, do you feel any…hatred…towards Riya?”
“Not at all,” Lake replied. “Rosa and I are…hurt from what Riya did, and we never got the apology, but we both believe in forgiveness to her.”
Emily didn’t look too happy about that.
(Rio, Brazil)
The plane landed in the airport as two more young men walked on. The first being a dark skinned man with a bushy head of hair, black hair, a yellow t-shirt, and tight black pants and a nose ring. The second, being a dyed parted hair of white and black, bright green eyes, and a red Canadian sweater and striped long-sleeve shirt.
The two boys boarded the plane and entered the plain cabins. As the two boys were scanning the plan the red sweatered boy looked over at Lake. “Is that award winning author Lake Müller?”
“Aiden! James!” Lake ran up to them and embraced them in a hug. “Rosa and Sofia told me to say hello to you for them!”
“Aww, how sweet of her.” Aiden said.
“Once this is over, we’ll all go on a trip.” James pulled Lake close. “Reunion Selfie for our fans!”
Upon taking it, the three made their way to the back of the plane, though, Aiden and James took a moment to give Riya a dirty look.
“What do you jerks want?” Riya shook her head.
“I can’t believe these producers brought your insane self back.” Aiden grunted. “I’m still waiting for an apology for you almost letting me DIE !”
“Dont be so dramatic, you could of just let go and used your hangglider.” Riya replied smugly.
Aiden and James's Pregame Interview
“James, Aiden, you might as well both be considered the winners since James won.” Emily replied.
“Yeah, well, we’re doing it fine.” James replied. “Letting the whole world see us travel together after all the drama in our season shows how much we’ve grown. You know Aiden loves to travel, we were in Brazil to visit my sister, and I bought her a new car.” James added.
“Ugh, you season 2 kids that aren’t Riya are so boring. The season 1 contestants are so much better.” Emily grunted.
“Aiden, do you still have a grudge against James for what he did to you in season 2. Using him to gain followers because you were…well…”
“That’s not important.” Aiden crossed his arms. “Besides, I acted rash watching those episodes after he stopped back. We’ve talked it over, and we’re good. My Hubby is Vewwy Sowwy.” James smiled at him.
“I hate these boring contestants.” Emily muttered under her breath.
(Miami, Florida)
The shoreline was quiet, waves rolling in at a steady rhythm as the sun dipped low.
Jade stood barefoot near the water, hands in her jacket pockets, staring out at the horizon. She looked calm but alert, like someone waiting for a signal she already expected.
Behind her, Isabel adjusted the sleeve of her black top, the small silver cross at her collar catching the light before she tucked it back beneath the fabric.
“They’re on schedule,” Isabel said.
Jade nodded. “They always are.”
Jade exhaled softly. “Same game. Different people.”
“Same people, too,” Isabel replied. “Just louder.”
Jade glanced back at her. “Still comfortable with this?”
Isabel met her eyes without hesitation. “Faith doesn’t mean avoidance. It means knowing where you’re standing.”
Jade smiled faintly. “Then let’s stand carefully.”
Kristal stepped out of the plane, heels sinking slightly into the sand.
“Jade and Isabel,” she said. “Ready to reenter the experiment?”
Jade turned fully now. “We never left it.”
Isabel inclined her head. “We know what this show does to people.”
Kristal smiled. “Good. Then there’ll be fewer surprises.”
She gestured toward the vehicle. “Let’s go.”
Neither woman looked back at the ocean as they walked away.
Inside the plane, the hum of conversation softened as Jade and Isabel stepped aboard.
Jade scanned the cabin once quick and methodical before choosing a seat. Isabel followed, settling beside her, posture straight, hands folded neatly in her lap.
Across the aisle, Ellie noticed them immediately.
Isabel leaned back casually, one arm draped over the armrest, eyes sharp and amused.
“Mind if I sit?” she asked, already seated.
Ellie smiled thinly. “You already did.”
Isabel chuckled. “Fair.”
A beat passed.
“I liked how you played last time,” Isabel said. “Messy. Honest. Loud when it mattered.”
Ellie raised an eyebrow. “That wasn’t a compliment.”
“No,” Isabel agreed. “It was an observation.”
Ellie studied her more closely now. “You were Jade’s shield.”
Isabel’s smile sharpened. “And you’re everyone’s problem.”
Ellie laughed softly, clearly pleased. “Guess we both make people uncomfortable.”
“Different reasons,” Isabel replied. “You burn things down. I wait until the structure collapses.”
Ellie leaned back, crossing her arms. “So which one of us survives longer?”
Isabel met her gaze, unblinking. “Depends on whether you can stop turning every fight into a performance.”
Ellie’s smile faltered, just a bit.
“Careful,” Ellie said lightly. “People mistake silence for weakness.”
Isabel shrugged. “People mistake volume for control.”
Another pause. Heavier this time.
From a few rows back, Gabby’s laughter rang out, and Ellie glanced over her shoulder instinctively before looking back at Isabel.
“Have you ever noticed,” Ellie said, “how the women always get labeled before the men even open their mouths?”
Isabel nodded. “Villain. Lier. Snake. Take your pick.”
Ellie smiled again, slower. “Could be useful.”
Isabel smirked. “Or suffocating.”
The two held each other’s gaze not hostile, not friendly.
Evaluating.
Ellie finally spoke. “If we end up on the same team…”
Isabel cut in, standing. “Then we’ll either run it.”
She leaned closer, lowering her voice. “or tear each other apart.”
Ellie watched her walk away, lips curling into something that wasn’t quite a smile.
“Guess we’ll see,” she muttered.
Across the cabin, Isabel slid back into her seat beside Jade, glancing once over her shoulder.
Jade noticed. “Already clocking threats?”
Isabel exhaled. “Potential allies.”
She paused. “And future problems.”
Jade And Isabel's Pregame Interview
Emily smiled into the camera as the two women settled into their seats. “I’m here with Jade and Isabel two very different forces from Carnival of Chaos. Isabel, you’ve been well documented. So today, I want to start with Jade.”
Jade blinked, caught a little off guard. “Oh. Okay.”
Emily leaned in. “Last time, fans described you as brilliant but also emotionally distant. Strategy-first, people-second. Is that how you see yourself?”
Jade exhaled slowly. “Yeah. Honestly? That’s fair.” She gave a small, self-aware smile. “I treated the game like a puzzle. Pieces, numbers, timing. I didn’t always stop to think about how people felt… or how my moves affected them.”
“And this time?” Emily prompted.
“This time I’m trying to do better.” Jade glanced down at her hands before looking back up.
“Being close to Spencer, Benji, and Logan changed things for me. Watching how much my decisions impacted them, especially when things got messy… it made me realize that winning at the expense of everyone around you isn’t really winning.”
Emily raised a brow. “So emotions are part of your strategy now?”
Jade nodded. “Not as tools. As things I actually have to respect. I still want to play hard—but I don’t want to lose myself doing it.”
Isabel chuckled softly beside her. “Growth looks good on you,” she said, half-teasing, half-genuine.
Jade smiled at that, smaller but sincere.
Emily turned slightly toward Isabel. “And you’re comfortable with this new, more empathetic Jade?”
Isabel folded her hands calmly. “We’ll see. Awareness doesn’t mean weakness. And Jade’s never been weak.”
Jade glanced at her, a flicker of appreciation passing between them.
Emily nodded toward the camera. “Well, whether heart or head wins out Jade sounds like she’s playing a very different game this time.”
(London, Britain)
A man with jet black hair and glasses wearing a green sweater with shorts adjusted his jacket nervously as he arrived at the plane stop. “I already regret coming back,” Spencer muttered under his breath. “But… well, here we go.”
A confident man with neatly combed brown hair approached, carrying a small backpack. “Spencer?” Alec said, raising an eyebrow. “Didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Figured I’d show up,” Spencer replied, giving a small nod. “Can’t say no to another round, I guess.”
From behind a cluster of luggage carts, a familiar figure emerged. Grett’s expression was measured, eyes scanning the newcomers. “Alec… I see you brought company,” she said, tone cautious but curious.
“Wow the rumors are true you…look…different,” Alec said.
“Thank you…I guess?” Grett said uncomfortably. “I’ve been working on myself both inside and out since the last time we saw each other.”
Spencer cleared his throat and broke the awkward tenson. “Hi, I’m Spencer. Didn’t think I’d actually be sharing a plane with some of the cast from your season.”
Alec smirked. “Yeah, it’s… crowded this time. You ready for it?”
“Ready as I’ll ever be,” Spencer replied, shifting his weight nervously.
Grett’s lips pressed together in a small, polite smile. “Guess we all get a second chance at this game, huh?”
“Apparently so,” Alec said. “Let’s just hope this season’s less chaotic than last.”
The three of them exchanged quick glances, each sizing up the others while silently preparing for whatever the producers had planned. Spencer adjusted his glasses, muttering to himself, “Time to see what this season has in store…”
(Airplane Cabins)
The private jet’s steps extended down as Spencer, Alec, and Grett stepped onto the aisle, luggage in hand. The cabin was already filling with returning contestants, some chatting, some quietly observing.
Spencer spotted Benji first and gave a small wave. “Benji, good to see you again,” he said, settling his bag near the middle of the cabin.
“Spencer!” Benji grinned, leaning against the overhead bin. “Glad you’re here. This season’s gonna be wild—hope you’re ready for it.”
Spencer offered a half-smile. “I’m ready… mostly.”
Then his eyes flicked to Zaid, who didn’t look as pleased. Spencer’s jaw tightened just a fraction. “Hey, Zaid,” he said cautiously.
Zaid crossed his arms. “Spencer.” His tone was clipped. “Glad you survived the last chaos.”
Spencer let a small laugh escape. “Survived, yes. Thrived? That’s up for debate.”
Alec stepped forward, adjusting his sleeve. “Looks like we’re all boarding for the same adventure,” he said. “I’m Alec, and this is Grett.”
Grett nodded politely. “It’s good to meet everyone.” Her eyes scanned the cabin, landing on Miriam. “Quite the lineup you’ve got here.”
Spencer’s gaze followed hers to Miriam, remembering a fan greeting where she had criticized his social game. He forced a small smile. “Hi Miriam… ready for another round?”
Miriam’s gaze was sharp, a small smirk tugging at her lips. “We’ll see if you’ve improved since last time, Spencer.”
“Noted,” he said, keeping his tone light. Inside, he bristled at the memory of her critique. She doesn’t know half of it yet, he thought.
Just then, Jade appeared on the suitcase in hand. Spencer’s expression softened slightly at the sight of her. “Jade,” he said warmly, “long time no see.”
Jade smiled, stepping aboard. “Spencer. Feels like forever since we were back on the red team side together, huh?”
“Yeah… started shaky, ended better,” Spencer replied, sliding into the seat across the aisle from her. “Feels good to be back together.”
Ted, seated nearby, leaned forward with his sly grin. “Well, look who just boarded. Hope you’re ready, this season is gonna chew up a lot of you.”
Before Spencer could answer, Ted’s gaze slid past him, settling on Alec. His smile didn’t fade, but it sharpened.
“I’ll give you this,” Ted said casually. “Your gameplay last time? Impressive. Cold. Efficient. Not many people can pull strings like that and make it look accidental.”
Alec raised an eyebrow. “That almost sounded like a compliment.”
“Almost,” Ted replied. “As a parent, though? Let’s just say I didn’t love the example you set.”
The air tightened.
Spencer glanced between them, adjusting his glasses. “For what it’s worth,” he said evenly, “Alec wasn’t the only one making questionable calls. The difference is he owned them.”
Alec turned slightly, surprised. “Didn’t expect that from you.”
“I’m not defending you,” Spencer clarified. “I’m saying people respect consistency. Something this game punishes you for lacking.”
Ted hummed, clearly amused. “See, that’s interesting. You recognize the strategy, but you’re already thinking about how it looks.”
Spencer met Ted’s eyes without blinking. “Perception is strategy. Ignore it, and you end up isolated. Ask Miriam, she already told the world what she thinks my problem was.”
Ted’s grin widened. “Self-aware. Dangerous combo.”
Alec smirked. “Careful, Ted. Sounds like you’re scouting.”
“Oh, I absolutely am,” Ted replied. “Question is…” his gaze flicked between Alec and Spencer, “which of you is playing to win… and which of you is playing not to lose?”
Neither answered.
Spencer finally tilted his head, voice calm but firm. “We’ll see who’s chewing and who’s getting chewed.”
Meanwhile, Benji nudged Zaid playfully. “Don’t worry, buddy. It’s only week one. You’ll warm up.”
Zaid’s glare flicked toward Spencer. “Let’s hope week one doesn’t start with old grudges.”
Alec chuckled quietly to Grett. “Looks like we’re in for a fun flight.”
Spencer dropped into his seat and surveyed the returning players, already mentally mapping the interactions and alliances forming around him
“Wait, you forgot someone.” Grett stopped her. “Yul is in town for business, but, he told me he’s running late.”
“Wait…how do you know Yul?” She looked over at Connor.
“Uh…do you…not know?” James asked smoothly.
They all turned their heads as a young Korean man entered the plane. He had a very angry face and messy black hair. His toned body and…rather spicy abs were highlighted by his flaming crop top shirt and blue jeans.
“Ugh finally.” The man spoke in a voice that just made you want to punch the shit out of him. “A dumbass marching band blocked our exit for 5 minutes. I would’ve had the driver run their asses over if I wasn’t so concerned about getting in trouble.”
“Yul! Hello Baby!” Grett cheered as she ran towards him.
“Wait…baby?!” Hunter asked, in disbelief.
Grett embraced the man as the two shared a very uncomfortably long kiss. Much to the shock of everyone on the plane.
“What…was that?” Ally asked dumbfoundedly.
“How dare you insult my girlfriend, femcel!” Yul shot back.
Grett’s Pregame Interview
“Grett, many of us fans who follow you after a while have been wondering how you and Yul met.”
“Oh, it’s quite the story.” She replied to Emily. “His manager introduced us during a brand deal, and we really hit it off, he’s been my spicy abed boyfriend ever since. Makes what’s left of his fans from this show quite jealous.”
“I’m surprised you were willing to go through with that given how much of a liability Yul was in his season? How’d you make it work?”
“Oh it was easy. Much like Riya, the Yul you saw back then is completely different from the one in private with me.” Grett giggled. “Besides, Yul’s…problematic…behavior was more so the result of his old manager. The real Yul you’ll see is quite the saint compared to that demon child from my season. Unlike her, we all deserve a chance to change.”
“I noticed, especially your body and weight have changed a bit since last season. Was the result of toxic fans bullying you?”
“Is that supposed to be professional, I ought to have you fired!” Grett fursioly exclaimed.
(Airplane Cabins)
“That’s right, losers, Grett’s my girlfriend!” Yul replied smugly.
“Girlfriend?” Riya shot back. “Aren’t you Gay?”
“Not gonna lie dude, I thought you were gay too.” Jake replied.
Yul’s eye twitched as the rest of the plane seemed to nodded in agreement.
“Don’t you lump me in with that disgusting crowd! I’ll have you know that…” Yul was cut off as his phone began to ring.
“Ugh, what?” He picked up the phone, silent for a few moments. “Seriously?! I can’t say that?! Why the fuck…” more silence, before he hung up.
“Excuse me, what I meant to say was, I do not belong to the LGBTIKZ community. But if I did, there would be absolutely nothing wrong with that! Sorry to all my fans of that community, but I’m straight like an arrow.”
Yul’s Pregame Interview
“Yul! Okay, so we haven’t hear from you since your appearance in the finale of last season! But all of a sudden, you and Grett came out of nowhere as a spotlight couple? I gotta know everything,” Emily excitedly exclaimed.
“After my season, I had some trouble finding new dance contracts. I blame my old manager honestly. He made me look like an idiot on international television,” Yul said.
“Really? Those racist comments you made about Rosa and her daughter sure seemed quite genuine,” Emily responded.
“Fake news,” Yul replied. “I only said the things my manager advised me to say. I was still new to the western hemisphere after all, I guess I just picked my choices wrong. I fired him the moment I left and got a new one who helped me clean up my image. So no biggie.”
“Do you really expect those people to believe you’ve changed?”
“Oh don’t you worry I’m back to show everyone who I really am!” Yul replied.
(Vatican City, Catholic School)
A young girl around the age of eight grumbled as she wrote her hundredth sentence on the blackboard while an old nun watched her sternly. Boy did she hate being locked up in the prison of a school. If she had just won that money last season…
Her ears perked up as she heard a plane fly overhead. Now was her chance.
The nun also heard it as she took her eyes off her. “A plane? Here?”
The young girl grabbed a nearby book and flung it at the nun. Knocking her off balance as she grabbed her backpack and jumped out the open window.
She quickly made her way out of the school grounds, as the nun chased after her towards the plane.
She was stopped by Kristal as the nun walked up to her. “Thank you for stopping this little brat…”
“Unfortunately, she’ll be coming with us.” Kristal replied to the nun.
“I can’t allow that, I’ll call the police.”
Kristal smiled as she pulled out a fat stack of cash. “Quiet, and it’s all yours.”
The nun looked between her and Kristal, before pocketing it. “I didn’t see nothin.”
“Wait a second…” Lake glanced outside. “Why are we at the Vatican? I thought the 26th contestant lived elsewhere.”
The season 2 and 3 cast looked on as their season 1 newbies looked horrified at the sound of being at the Vatican.
“Wait…where did you say we were?” Miriam sputtered.
“The Vatican…you know…the home of the catholic church and one of the biggest Christian boarding schools around?” Lake added.
“If we’re here then…” Jake said, placing a hand on his head. “Oh no…don’t tell me…”
“They wouldn’t have actually…surely not?” Gabby asked, shivering as Ellie placed a hand on her shoulder.
“Yes they absolutely would…” Alec groaned.
The season 2 and 3 cast looked, and only a few of them looked shocked, some confused, as the 9-year-old girl stepped into the plane. She wore a yellow vest and blue cargo shorts, with her brown ponytail tied up, but a bit disheveled.
“I can’t believe they’d do this to us!” Tom groaned as he shook his head.
"They even went as far as to lie to us on the casting call that she wouldn’t return. Probably because they knew none of us would sign up if she was." Ellie muttered.
“Is this even legal?” Jade asked as the girl nonchalantly walked down the aisle.
Yul was the first to say anything from Season 2, despite Grett's concerned look, cast as the girl gave them all a bored look, not even bothering to ask for a hello, or anything.
“That’s…That’s a child…” Yul said.
“And that’s an ugly pimply bitch!” The girl replied, not even batting an eye. As Yul recoiled.
As Fiore walked down the aisle, she surveyed the plane, noticing Isabel's presence, which caused her to groan, “As if things couldn’t get any worse, not even on reality TV can I escape nuns.”
“I’m not a typical nun, you know,” Isabel fired back.
Fiore gave the camera a deadpanned look before sitting in the open seat next to Alec.
(Barcelona, Spain)
The wind rolled in off the ocean, warm and sharp with salt.
Anastasia and Marissa lingered near the edge of the runway, arms crossed as the distant hum of the jet began to grow louder. Anastasia adjusted the strap of her bag, already half in game mode, but she stopped when she noticed Marissa hadn’t left yet.
“So,” Marissa said, forcing a small smile, “guess this is it. Again.”
Anastasia scoffed softly. “You say that like you didn’t already know I’d go back if they asked.”
“I did,” Marissa replied. “Doesn’t mean I have to like it.”
For a moment, neither of them spoke. The wind kicked up sand against the concrete.
“Just… don’t let it turn you into the same person,” Marissa said finally. “You played hard. You survived. But you don’t always have to be at war.”
Anastasia hesitated, then nodded once. “I can’t promise I’ll be nicer,” she said. “But I can promise I’ll be smarter.”
Marissa stepped forward and pulled her into a brief, tight hug. “That’s all I wanted to hear.”
The private jet touched down with a low roar.
She didn’t flinch.
The door opened, and Kristal stepped out first, heels clicking confidently against the tarmac.
“Anastasia,” she said brightly. “Ready for another round?”
Anastasia gave a tight smile. “You people really do enjoy tempting fate.”
Kristal smirked. “You signed the contract.”
“Yes,” Anastasia replied. “And unlike some people, I actually read it.”
She hoisted her bag over her shoulder and headed up the stairs without another word.
(Airplane Cabins)
The cabin was already crowded. Conversations hummed, alliances half-formed, tension sitting just beneath the surface.
Anastasia took two steps down the aisle and immediately stopped.
Her eyes landed on Isabel. Isabel noticed at the same time.
There was a beat of silence.
Then…
“…Of course,” Anastasia said flatly. “They brought you back.”
Isabel folded her hands neatly in her lap, expression calm, almost serene. “Peace be with you as well, Anastasia.”
Anastasia scoffed. “Don’t start. We both know you don’t mean that.”
Isabel tilted her head slightly. “I mean peace. I don’t mean agreement.”
“That tracks,” Anastasia shot back. “You never did. You just smiled and waited for people to implode.”
Isabel’s smile thinned. “And you never stopped believing you knew what was best for everyone.”
A few nearby contestants glanced over.
“Funny,” Anastasia said, stepping closer, voice low. “I remember you preaching morality right up until it inconvenienced you.”
“And I remember you deciding chaos was justified as long as you were in control,” Isabel replied evenly.
The tension was sharp enough to cut.
Before either could escalate…
“Hey.” Logan stood up from his seat, grinning like he’d just run into an old friend at a bar.
“Wow,” he said. “Didn’t think I’d see you again this soon.”
Anastasia blinked, then her shoulders eased just a fraction.
“…Logan,” she said. “Did they seriously drag you back too?”
“Drag is a strong word,” he laughed. “More like lightly shove with a contract and a camera crew.”
She smirked despite herself. “You still jumping headfirst into disasters?”
“Only the televised ones,” Logan replied. “You look… good. Focused.”
She gave a small nod. “You survived Carnival. That’s more than most.”
Logan lowered his voice slightly. “You held your ground better than anyone gave you credit for.”
That earned him a genuine look. “Thanks,” Anastasia said.
Behind them, Isabel quietly reclaimed her composure, eyes lingering on Anastasia just a moment longer before looking away.
A hesitant voice cut in.
“Um…hi.” Jake stood nearby, shifting his weight awkwardly.
“I’m Jake,” he said. “We’ve never interacted, but I watched your season.”
Anastasia studied him, guarded but curious. “And?” she asked.
“And,” Jake continued, “you didn’t panic when things got bad. You didn’t pretend you were nicer than you were. I…uh…respect that.”
She raised an eyebrow. “That’s not usually a compliment.”
“It is coming from me,” Jake said quickly. “I tend to trust people who don’t lie to themselves.”
Something in that landed.
“…Anastasia,” she replied. “And for what it’s worth you seem earnest. That’s rare on this plane.”
Jake smiled, relieved.
“Maybe we’ll work together,” he said softly. “If it makes sense.”
She considered him for a moment.
“Maybe,” she said. “Just don’t expect blind loyalty.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Jake replied.
Anastasia's Pregame Interview
The camera flicked on.
Emily sat across from Anastasia, tablet in hand, a smile already prepared. Anastasia sat upright, hands folded neatly, eyes steady. No nerves. No warmth either.
“Anastasia,” Emily began, “it’s been a while since Carnival of Chaos, but fans haven’t forgotten you. You were without exaggeration one of the most aggressive players that season.”
Anastasia didn’t react.
“They called you ruthless,” Emily continued. “Controlling. Some even said you manufactured chaos rather than surviving it. How do you respond to that?”
Anastasia exhaled slowly.
“I respond by saying the theme was Chaos,” she said. “Not Comfort. Not Morality Theater. Chaos.”
Emily nodded, intrigued. “You flipped votes, exposed alliances, and openly antagonized players who crossed you.”
“I didn’t antagonize them,” Anastasia replied coolly. “I refused to coddle them. There’s a difference.”
“Fans still talk about the moment you intentionally leaked your own alliance’s plan and changed the target after the haunted house challenge just to see who would panic.”
A faint smile crossed Anastasia’s face.
“Information reveals character,” she said. “The wrong people cracked.”
Emily leaned forward. “You also burned bridges. Permanently. Isabel, for example.”
Anastasia’s jaw tightened just slightly.
“Isabel and I had different definitions of righteousness,” she said. “She wanted control dressed up as virtue. I preferred honesty.”
“And that honesty cost you allies.”
“Yes,” Anastasia said immediately. “And it also kept me from lying to myself.”
Emily raised an eyebrow. “So you don’t regret your aggressive approach?”
“I regret trusting the wrong people,” Anastasia replied. “I don’t regret playing.”
There was a brief pause.
“Last question,” Emily said. “If you’re being honest—are you capable of playing differently this time?”
Anastasia met the camera directly.
“I’m capable,” she said. “I’m just not interested unless given a reason to.”
“And for the record,” she added calmly, “if people are uncomfortable, it usually means I’m doing something right.”
(Tipiskaw, Canada)
As the contestants boredly awaited the plane to land, the cabin fell into a restless hush. Fiore noticed it immediately how Alec hadn’t said a word to her the entire flight. She shifted in her seat, then finally turned toward him.
“Are you really going to ignore me this whole flight?” she asked.
Alec’s eyes flicked to her, irritation flashing there but it didn’t hold. “Do we really need to do this now?”
Fiore tilted her head. “Are you really still angry about what happened?”
Alec let out a slow breath, rubbing a hand over his face. “You realize you’re responsible for a lot of my problems these past two years, right?”
She didn’t miss the hesitation. “You’re giving me too much credit,” she replied flatly. “You made your own choices.”
Alec turned back toward the window, jaw tight. For a moment, he said nothing. But in the faint reflection of the glass, Fiore caught it the frustration, yes, but something else underneath. Regret. Maybe even exhaustion.
As the plane began its descent, Alec’s shoulders sagged just slightly.
“…It wasn’t all on you,” Alec muttered, quiet enough that he might’ve meant it only for himself.
Fiore said nothing. She just watched the reflection as the plane touched down.
“Alright cast, we’re almost done, we just need to pick up the staff for this season.” Kristal said.
“Of course, you remember Marcus, he’ll be the bus driver for when you guys get eliminated to shuttle you to the motel of losers.” Kristal pointed to an old man with a brown fedora, shaded sunglasses, and a yellow beard and stache.
“Where’s that freaky puppet?” Aiden asked.
“I’m here too. Glad to see the skunk-haired moron missed me!” A puppet looking like a small girl with orange hair popped out behind Marcus’ back.
“And then there’s Oliver,” Kristal introduced a small man with a black afro and glasses. “He’ll be our assistant director to ensure the challenges are…mostly safe.”
“Emily…” Kristal introduced the lady that had given them all interviews.
“What is she doing here?” Grett groaned.
“Emily is our production assistant, the season 3 contestants already know her. She’ll help in scooping out your confessionals and making sure you greet the fans who help fund this when you’re eliminated.”
“Joy…” Alec muttered.
“And lastly, what season would be complete without the interns.”
“Hmm…I wonder who they are?” Oliver said smugly.
“Everyone, at least from season 1, give a warm welcome to…Derek and Trevor!”
No one clapped as two more men came out. Derek was a tan skinned man with black hair and a chiseled jawline with a more happy demeanor. Derek was a more angry looking black haired, white skinned man with some nasty stubble.
“What are they doing here?!” Gabby asked, hiding the bitterness in her tone. “Weren’t they thrown in jail for all the harm they did to the natural environment building that camp for the show?!”
“They were, but the producers paid their bail so we all could torture them.” Kristal said smugly.
“Money really does solve everything these days.” Ellie muttered.
“HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Fiore roared. “How the mighty have fallen! Look at you losers!”
“I guess you two can call ME boss now!” Oliver said proudly.
“Trevor…this was a mistake.”
“It was either that, or 3 more years in Prison, Derek.”
Kristal looked at the two interns. “Anyway, we are now over Camp Tipiskaw. Unfortunately, we haven’t been cleared for landing.”
“Since when do you care about clearance! You landed right next to a boarding school,” Jake bitterly asked.
“Not important, each of you will grab a parachute and jump from the plane.”
“Uh…what did you say?” Aiden gasped.
Kristal swung open the jet door and tossed a parachute to Derek and Trevor. “Will the interns care to demonstrate?”
“Uh ha ha…” Trevor nervously chuckled.
“Wait what are you doing-” Derek asked as Emily pushed both of them out of the plane.
Ignoring the distant screams of the two former hosts, Kristal turned back to the campers. “While falling, you must each open up your parachutes, the color parachute you get will determine which team color you are on this season. Inside each parachute is also a map that you must use to find your camp.”
“Yeah…we’re not doing that!” Riya crossed her arms. “We didn’t sign up for this!”
“Yeah…what if we don’t jump?” Jake asked.
The host groaned. “If a million dollars isn’t enough for you, because you’re all the best of the best contestants, we’ve decided to triple the prize money this season. 3 million dollars for the winner to truly prove you are the ultimate superstar.”
There was some immense satisfaction she felt seeing the smiles form on every good person’s face, and the evil smiles on all the bad people’s faces.
Ellie was the first to stand up. “Give me that damn parachute.”
“No need, we’ve placed them all under your assigned seats.” Kristal said.
Kristal watched as she eyed each parachute bag the contestants grabbed onto, and marked them down as they jumped. I think the team selections we’ve chosen will cause all the drama we need.
Ally and Hunter, both felt satisfied as they revealed magenta colored parachutes, however, their happiness was shortly dashed as Tess opened hers, revealing a Cyan one.
“Oh no! Tess!” Ally gasped.
“It’s okay, I can take care of myself.” Tess said, looking over as she saw Ellie and Gabby on her team.
Jake and Miriam both became disappointed as they revealed magenta and yellow colored parachute’s respectively. Things didn’t get much easier as Tom pulled his and they noted the cyan color, meaning the three of them were separated.
Riya and Connor also both pulled yellow colored parachutes. “Booyah!” Connor fist pumped. “Looks like we’re together Riya!”
“Oh that’s…wonderful…” Riya smiled.
James, Aiden, and Lake all pulled their parachutes. Aiden felt some relief as Lake’s Cyan popped up. However, James revealed Magenta on his.
“James…remember what happened last time. Don’t do anything stupid.”
“Don’t worry I’ll behave,” James said smugly.
As they approached the ground. Alec took note of his yellow parachute, and quickly spotted that he was also going to be with Yul and Grett. However, his eye also caught Fiore and Jake’s who were both Magenta. He felt a small pit of disappointment, but there was no time to dwell on that now.
Anastasia looked unamused to see her yellow parachute be revealed, but was intrigued when she noticed Spencer and Jade also had yellow parachutes.
Logan and Hannah were relieved to see that both of their parachutes were magenta.
“Looks like my lessons can continue,” Hannah told Logan flirtatiously.
Zaid and Benji fist bumped as both of their parachutes were revealed to be cyan.
“Let’s hope this doesn’t end as badly as it did last time,” Benji jokingly exclaimed.
Jade was disappointed to see that her parachute was yellow while Isabel's was cyan; both however, were quick to notice Spencer's yellow parachute.
Ted smirked as his parachute was revealed to be Magenta noticing that Dan’s parachute was of the same color.
Kristal chuckled as she tossed some binoculars to the side.
"And there you have it folks, that's our 3 teams for this season. On Magenta; Jake, Dan, Fiore, Ally, Hunter, James, Ted, Logan, and Hannah. On Cyan, Ellie, Gabby, Tom, Aiden, Lake, Tess, Benji, Zaid, and Isabel. Lastly, on Yellow Team; Alec, Miriam, Grett, Yul, Connor, Riya, Spencer, Jade, and Anastasia. God, I have missed this show.” She said, “Our 27 iconic competitors from our three seasons are back to compete in our biggest competition for our biggest prize. But the conditions are back to the way they were in Season 1, no cabins, no bathrooms, no showers, no built shelter, and no dining hall. They’ll have to fend for themselves.”
“Along the way, they’ll have to compete in some brand new challenges, overcome new twists and obstacles, all while being stuck with just a basic tent and supplies, hoping to win challenges for rewards to hopefully improve their lives.
“What drama awaits us? And who will have the dishonor of being the first All-Star eliminated? Find out next time, on Disventure Camp All-Stars: After the Chaos!"
Magenta Team: Jake, Fiore, Dan, Hunter, Ally, James, Ted, Hannah, Logan
Cyan Team: Gabby, Ellie, Tom, Aiden, Lake, Tess, Benji, Zaid, Isabel
Yellow Team: Alec, Miriam, Grett, Yul, Riya, Connor, Anastasia, Jade, Spencer
Idols: ???