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_February 17, 2020

Apopka, Florida

7:30 PM_

It's late in the afternoon. Most of the contestants are walking out, still celebrating having survived the first cut. Some look at the distance as the bus that brought them over drove away, carrying the eliminated rivals out of the area.

"I can't believe we made it!" Raymond says, his whiskers twitching. "Guys - I'm so looking forward to a good night's sleep."

"Well, we heading to the Burrow, right?" J.J. chimes in.

Arron nods along, the firefighter scratching at the loose hair under his cornrows with a broad paw. "Think so," he says. "Can't wait to see the place where half of us will be bunking up for the next month or so. Me included, of course..."

_"This is going SO well." *smiles broadly* "All I need right now is some good rest, and then I'm ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter_

"The lesser competition has been weeded out and these guys are the real obstacle between me and the quarter million. I can't wait to see how it all heats up in the Burrow."

~#22 Aksel, 31, Beech Marten, Natural Science Teacher

The host is waiting for the group in front of the ostentatious house. "Congrats guys, you survived the first day of bootcamp." Everyone cheers. "We started this process with 45 contestants fighting for the title of American Mustelid Alpha, now it's down to just 24. Are you ready to see your new headquarters?"

"Hell yeah!" Greasy Z screams. "Give us the keys already!"

"This is the Burrow. It has all the amenities anyone of your kind will desire, mixing top-notch training facilities, comfort and more." The camera shows the interior of the house, a huge bachelor pad equipped with stylish, modern furniture. "But for you to enter through these doors... you will need to earn it."

The grins and smirks slowly disappear from everyone's faces, confusion blanketing the crowd of hopefuls.

"Holy fucking HELL." *looks shocked* "What does that mean? We taking on another challenge?"

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

"You're gonna sleep here in Apopka tonight... but not at The Burrow," Ludwig grins, pointing to a nondescript place far away from any view. "Somewhere down the road, you'll find your headquarters for the time being. Those are the same wooden barracks where civilians of your kind were transformed into true Alphas before the military base was decommissioned," he says. "Those same disused barracks will be your sleeping quarters for the time being."

The crowd lets out different kinds of sighs and exasperated grunts - some of them choosing not to believe the news. Omar, the marbled polecat from Jordan, is clearly not buying the latest developments. "Is this a joke, right?" he asks Ludwig.

"No joke, Omar," Ludwig grins. "Time to toughen out, guys. If you're thinking about quitting, there is another bus awaiting for you..."

"Hell no," the linguist spits back, some of the contestants joining him in earnest.

"Well, I'm here for an experience, and it seems like we're gonna get it. I'm definitely not worried about roughing it out, even if it means sharing a room with this smelly bunch."

~#45 James Sh. 23, American Badger, Pharmacy Technician

_"I'm pretty sure I haven't signed up for this, but you know what - if that's what it takes for me to claim the title, sign me up now."

~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer_

Ludwig tosses a rolled up map to the marbled polecat. "That'll tell you where it all is. Take your bags with you, and get cozy... if you can..." he grins, as the group starts to make their way away from the lavish mansion. "And remember..." the stoat continues, making the group stop in their tracks. "Very soon, 12 of you will earn the right to continue in the competition, while the other half of you will be eliminated. Keep focused on the main goal, 'cause this is far from over..." he says as the group walks away, the sun setting in the background.

***

"Can't you young guys read a fucking map?" John Blake exclaims, dragging two heavy roll-on suitcases behind him. "Are we walking in circles or what?"

"Okay, boomer," Theo says, most of the younger crowd laughing along. "Cool your jets dude, seriously. We're gonna be there before sundown."

"Don't make me turn this caravan all the way back!" Casey jokes, the elder otter huffing after the long walk with his backpack in tow. The barracks weren't all that close to the mansion, as many immediately predicted given how the camp was extending on the other side. The younger otter's prediction was sounding more wrong by the minute, as most of the group could follow through only by heeding the sound of crackling leaves made by the leaders.

"For absence of a better term, this is... a mess." *camera shows the younger otters struggling to read the map in the dim light* "What would have been a simple walk in the day, is turning into one hell of a struggle in the night. I'm like, can someone get this goddamn thing? Just... find the fucking North, look up and find Ursa Major or - ugh... it's frustrating."

~#45 James Sh. 23, American Badger, Pharmacy Technician

Eventually the group manages to reach the wooden barracks, a dim light in the front signaling the entrance. The collective sigh of relief dies soon, however, as they manage to take a look at the insides: the place has little to no comforts, two rows of six bunk beds being the only feature of the main room other than a small locker for each contestant. The toilet is small and cramped, with just a few urinals and a couple of shower stalls lining the room, little to no privacy available.

"I thought I was going into a fucking mansion..." J.J. huffs, as most contestants start unpacking and hunkering down. Quickly, orders and arguments start blowing between the group - some of the people discussing sleeping arrangements, others complaining about the situation. "Hey, I go to the bathroom at night. I need a bottom bunk."

"With our luck, Raymond, I'd be going down and crushing you on that if I sleep on that dinghy fucking top bed!" Eddie, the giant otter, rattles the bunk to show his point.

The shaggy-haired Californian sighs loudly, resting his rudder against the bottom mattress. "I mean dude... you've gone through this before."

"Exactly. I've gone. Crashing through top bunks, falling on top of someone. Before." Eddie punctuates, making the smaller otter gulp nervously and change his mind in an instant. "You want me to crash down and snap your rib before the big day?"

"Guess I can't win this..." Raymond pouts, setting his huge backpack down before climbing on the top bunk.

_"All in all, this used to be my daily routine, no big deal really..." *camera shows Eddie resting on the bottom bed, paws behind his shaven head* "But I feel this field needs some more whittling down. If a night of sleep in this shithole is enough to rattle you, I somehow doubt you can advance any further."

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman_

"Wait, there ain't no AC in here?" Sebastian, the only tayra remaining, asks out loud, before slapping his neck after a mosquito buzzes close to him.

"These have likely been built around the Vietnam days," Casey shrugs. "You think comfort was the military's top issue back then?"

"¡VERGA!" Diego, the Mexican stoat, loudly exclaims before stomping the ground. "Fucking... roaches in here too, you kidding me!"

"Now you're shitting us..." Kenneth says in disbelief, trying to find some comfort by letting his hair down and kicking off his shoes. After looking where Diego was pointing at the crushed insect, he doubles over retching - the stoat doing his best to look nonplussed.

_"This is no worse than my parents' house in Chihuahua." *dryly laughs* "Many city boys will have it hard - but better for me."

~#36 Diego, 32, Stoat, Warehouse Worker_

_"The situation is, well... not ideal." *camera shows J.J. climbing on top of his bunk* "But I'm here to succeed, and if this is a test I oughta take, I'm set on passing it with flying colors."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

Eventually, Azu comes back from his stroll around the place.. "Guys, there's worse news," he says, most of the other contestants answering with a groan. "The bathroom is THIS tiny, and look, the shitters are like..." the Nigerian otter sat hip to hip with Crispin for his point to get across. "...this much space."

"Do we get showers at least?" Aksel asks.

"Yes, but water pressure's dead. And no way to dry up other than these fucking rough cloths... " Michael Larkins says as he comes back from the bathroom, a large military issue towel slung across his shoulders.

"Fucking hell..." the marten sighs. "I hope we can organize turns like grown-ups?"

"At least can I trust you to not look when I go?" John Blake, the short stoat, scoffs.

"Like someone would willingly look at that ugly mug taking a shit," Aksel shoots back, his sensitive whiskers twitching. "Again, we're all adults, we can behave. This is tough for everyone, so let's all take a step back and figure it out how to make it more bearable for all."

"The situation is clearly aggravating people, and well, when you get twenty type-A, won't-back-down kinda boys under this kinda stress... tempers are going to flare."

~#22 Aksel, 31, Beech Marten, Political Science Teacher

*the hog badger is shown getting comfortable in his bed* "I've been in this kinna sitch before. Piece of cake, the only elements to be annoyed by are these 23 squealing farm animals. Relax! Have fun! Don't fucking fret, you not gonna die!"

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

Crispin, the tallest of the bunch, tries to shift in his bed, but to little avail; he settles in a position where his feet are hanging out with the least amount of stress. Some of the long tails of the top bunk sleepers annoyingly hung over the bottom bunks, brushing their companions.

"Lord help us, please... " William looks up to the ceiling, in exasperation, shooting a cathartic laugh out of the situation.

Once the turns are established, the luckiest ones head out first to get showered, towels and conditioners in tow. Most people disrobe down to their boxers, waiting for their own chance to clean up as they lie back on their mattresses.

"Whoever snores, I'll personally toss him outside, understand?" Crispin tells the crowd, jokingly but sternly. "And I can. I do that shit for a living... "

In his own corner, a young polecat tries to take off some of his belongings to change into lighter, cleaner garments, in order to crawl into his bed. Eventually he settles under the rough bed covers, turning to the side and gradually relaxing his worn out body.

"I'm going to get out of here tomorrow. I know so, I got faith I will get in that mansion... I'm pretty optimistic... "

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

***

_February 18, 2020

Apopka, Florida

5:00 AM_

Timelapse. The night falls down on the barracks, lights eventually going off except the small one in the front. The night vision camera shows the contestants having all fallen asleep, the tiredness eventually having gotten the best of them after the first day at selection.

Ludwig looks at the camera, an evil smile plastered on his muzzle. "These guys can't even fathom what we got in store for them," he whispers. A luminous clock on the wall reads 5:00 AM.

The stoat gets out a firecracker strip, careful to stay silent on the whole process as he steps close into the entrance of the barracks. The host lights up the fireworks, swiftly opens the door and throws them to the middle of the room.

*BANGBANGBANGBANG*

"PEOPLE! GET UP, LET'S GET UP RIGHT FUCKING NOW! I WANT YOU OUT OF YOUR BEDS NOW!" Ludwig musters in his best drill sergeant voice, filling the room to the furthest corner. Most mustelids sit up in shock, some clearly struggling to realize what is going on. "YOU'RE NOT ALPHAS YET, YOU NEED TO EARN IT, I WANT YOU TO GET THE CLOTHES OUTSIDE AND READY IN FIVE!"

"First thing on my mind was "FUCK, we getting bombed!" - then I get the voice of a drill sergeant yelling at me, and I'm like "well shit here we go again, back to the Navy I am!" Fucking déjà-vu..."

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"Being woken up this way was... traumatic." *laughs in disbelief* "I'm on the bottom bunk, so with all the adrenaline and crazy shit, I tried to get up and boom!" *Omar is shown hitting his head on the top bunk* "Totally ate shit and bumped my head..."

~#40 Omar, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter

Ruckus explodes in the small barracks, as most mustelids jump down off their bunks and get fumbling for their assigned training clothes neatly organized in a bench just outside the barracks. Some people refuse to get out of their bed, somehow thinking the stoat is joking.

"What the fuck is going on?" Michael Larkins asks from under his blanket. "Is this for real?"

"YOU BET YOUR FUCKING ASS IT IS!" Ludwig yells. "If you're not out in time, Larkins, you might as well book your seat on the bus back to Miami!"

"First the shitty barracks, now this? *begrudgingly, Michael gets out of the bed and joins the other contestants* I signed up to prove I'm the American Mustelid Alpha, not to do fucking army drills at five in the morning..."

~#43 Michael L., 25, North American River Otter, EMT/Triathlete

Rushed but hastily, the participants step outside of their barracks in a straight line. Ludwig details the line, noting there were only twenty-three "cadets" in his sight. The stoat looks at the distance to a fumbling polecat, struggling to dress up. "ANDREW, WHAT ARE YOU DOING? WANT TO CALL MOM AND DAD? MOM AND DAD ARE NOT HERE, I WANT YOU HERE NOW!"

Andrew snaps out of his struggle and runs to join the line, in just his boxers and shoes.

"Why didn't you put your clothes on, why's that?" Ludwig sternly asks, before directing him to get dressed.

"No one fucking told me shit..." the polecat mutters under his breath as he walks back.

"Basically I'm bunking in the far corner, and as soon as I jump down I see everyone dressing up and I can't find my clothes. I'm like, 'where the hell these clothes come from?' I never saw no clothes at first." *camera shows Andrew walking back to the barracks, finding his own clothes, neatly folded on the bench next to the entrance* "I get them, I'm pissed off, I don't want to hear shit..." *the polecat grabs the T-shirt and sweatpants, angrily slamming them to the ground* "I take a second to, y'know, get the anger off, but then I pick them back up and join the rest. I'm ready for this."

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"So, y'all happy to be here?" Ludwig grins, addressing the sleepy bunch.

"SIR, YES SIR!" Most of the contestants reply, almost by instinct at this point.

The stoat smiles. "I see you're learning," he says. "So I guess you know what comes next, too. Who's ready for a good, nice, morning run?" Some contestants loudly nod in approval, others look up in disbelief.

"I'm definitely not a morning person." *Crispin is shown letting out a big yawn* "It's like, five- five thirty in the morning, tops? Back home, I'm like... fast asleep, straight up splayed out on my futon, recovering from my stint at work. Getting out for a run is pretty low on my priority list of things to do this early in the morning."

~#33 Crispin, 29, European Otter, Bouncer

*the hog badger blows a strand of hair out of his face* "I can live with the barracks, but five A.M drilling is borderline. Least let me do my hair first..." *laughs* "But anythin' for the top spot. Ma didn't raise a bitch..."

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

The twenty-four mustelids take off at a strolling pace, following the path back to the hangar and so forth. Some of them shake out their limbs, slowly working the kinks out of their bodies. "Wait..." J.J. abruptly says, turning to his fellow runners. "Guys... you think this is today's challenge? The one cutting us to the final twelve?"

"Just a training session?" John Blake questions back. "It'd be weird if this was it. There's gotta be a twist... "

"Maybe this is meant to see how much stress can we take," J.J. mumbles. "I can imagine that being reluctant to follow through... kinda disqualifies yourself from your Alpha credentials."

"Is following orders all that Alpha, though?" Theo, the Californian lifeguard, pants as he tries to keep up with his fellow lutrine's pace.

The triathlete shrugs. "Like... if you're in a leading position, any kinda position really... chances are you started under someone barking at you," he says. "That you can take it, follow through, and end up taking his spot... that I feel is the real deal. You start from the bottom then you up here."

_"I know a thing or two about leading and being led. At 25, I'm already running my own small team of workers - some of whom are definitely as strong-headed as a few of these folks. I might be small and unassuming against some of these meatheads... but I come equipped to outlast each and everyone of them. I'm a freakin' Swiss Army knife, and they're the butter my blade is sinking into."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager

_

_ _

The camera switches to a full montage of Army training. After the run, Ludwig leads the field into different kinds of military drills. Several contestants are shown performing sets of burpees and push-ups, climbing a cargo net, squatting with a heavy rucksack on their shoulders.

"Feels like I'm about to puke," Z groans, doubled over.

"Hold it in, dye job..." the eldest of the current competitors, Casey, curtly replies to the badger. "This ain't nothing new, at least to me...."

"Might not be to ya, but geez... ain't my fault Ludwig's fucking crazy!" the loudmouth complains. "I don't think they mean to kill us all through Army drills until one remains, right? Course they don't!"

Chayne huffed, patting the badger's back, wiping his hand on his shirt afterward. "Like, if we think about it... the first cut was kinda easy, so they gotta run us to the ground. I just hope we can get to shower or eat soon..."

Z nods, lifting his paws to show the front of his t-shirt - the grey fabric looking fully soaked with his sweat. "Say it fucking again, man!" he says, still attempting to catch his breath. "I feel wetter than an otter's twat!"

Casey raises an eyebrow as the blonde marten laughs heartily. "Just think about your goal, Z. We're all here for a reason," Chayne says, before resuming his series of squats.

"I know these people will think I'm a big dumbass, but the key to win this is focus. I know winnin' this shit can just better the lives of my fam and the people at the garage, so that's the goal and nuthin's gonna take it from me. But who says being the leader means being an asshole? I'm loud, I'm proud, let's have a fuckin' party while at it!"

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

Some people are definitely having it harder than others. Akiva, the young, lithe college otter from Florida, is struggling to keep up with the pace set by Ludwig. J.J., the self-proclaimed pack leader among the young lutrines' clique, immediately notices it and urges him on.

"You can't give up on us, 'Kiva!" the sea otter says, stopping in his tracks between a set of burpees and the next.

Akiva redoubles his effort, a determined grin framing his features. "I... won't..." he growls, squatting low before kicking his webbed feet back.

"My heart feels like it's beating out of my chest." *Akiva finishes his series, then falls to the ground immediately, chest strongly heaving* "I never thought I'd end up taking on Army drills, but the more this goes, the more I feel surviving this is 90% a mental feat. I can't allow the negatives to take a hold of me."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

On the corner, Diego and William are doing their share of burpees pretty seamlessly - but the Mexican stoat just can't shake off an odd feeling. Looking around, he confirms it, seeing a stoat and a wolverine ostentatiously looking at the duo. "Blake and Marshall keep starin' at us again..." he murmurs to William.

"Let 'em," the weasel scoffs. "If they have it for us, I'd rather they get into trouble instead of us."

Diego nods, but it is clear that the behaviour of the duo is unnerving him. "If they look us wrong one more time, I will..." he hisses, whiskers twitching over his tiny moustache.

"You won't do anything, Diego," William says in a soothing voice. "Let's be civil, aight?"

"Ok... but seriously, can't handle John anymore... you think he's doing it on purpose?" Diego theorizes. "He has been giving me looks ever since we got on the bus..."

"Whatever he does, it shouldn't concern you. We're here for us..." William shrugs.

"We don't need to see eye to eye on anything with these people. But let's face it - there's a point that some of us ain't... filling the part. Many of us have years of hardships and years of sculpting our bodies to be on the top of the pack, and I need to see the same vibes from you, else... yeah..."

~#24 Michael M., 35, Wolverine, Blacksmith

"it's not like it's uncommon to have others judge your efforts." *camera pans on Diego doing clapping push-ups - demonstrating his explosiveness as he pushes hard against the floor, quickly clapping while at the top of his motion before planting his paws back down* "I went through all sorts of shit to be the stoat I am nowadays, no matter who sneered or criticized. And I feel I'm one of the few who actually sees this as a competition. I could say I already got in mind who I'm gonna have to watch out for and who's getting weeded out."

~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

Eventually, Ludwig calls the end of the exercises, the group giving a collective sigh of relief as they get a chance to catch their breath. "There is one more test I want you to take. It's not the usual, but I feel I need to see your form better. Follow me... " the host says, all twenty-four mustelids making a beeline as they follow his lead.

The camera cuts on the stoat stopping in front of a thick mud patch, a set of monkey bars strewn over each side, ending on a balance beam that leads to the other side of the pit.

"This ain't the regular Navy shit..." Casey mutters to himself.

"What about testing your grip and balance?" Ludwig smiles, taking a seat center of the track. "One at a time, you'll get on the bars and swing over onto the other side. Then, you'll have to jump to the platform, cross the balance beam without falling in the mud and reach the other end of the pit. Simple enough..."

_"This doesn't sound too hard... By now it is clear they're trying to get us to break, but if that's the worst they got, I definitely feel they underestimated me."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor_

_"This is my SHIT! OCR - obstacle course racing, for all the geezers out there - is what I'm getting at when I'm not tinkering with engines and exhausts. I do this every weekend, course I'm all too happy to get muddy up to my gills!"

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic_

Although the hog badger looks excited, most of the contestants are giving the trial second thoughts. Sebastian, the tayra runner, is looking rather anxious about the whole ordeal - paws up to his chin as he listens to Ludwig's ordeal. "You think you're the top of this bunch, you can't pussy up over a set of monkey bars," the stoat says. "If you want to make it through the next cut, I need to see that you'll leave hesitation and doubt out from here on. Even if there's mud, alligators, a cliff, whatever, I want to see if you can execute a challenge with full on determination."

_"I'm like... is he judging us? Is our spot already under question?" *shrugs* "I can only give this my 100% and hope he takes notice."

~#45 James Sh. 23, American Badger, Pharmacy Technician_

The contestants start tackling the monkey bars. Greasy Z is up first, the rowdy hog badger wanting to show his opponents how it's done. While he manages to successfully go through the bars, he stumbles on the dismount, barely able to keep his place on the platform.

"Needs more practice, Z!" Ludwig demands. "I thought you'd be able to get it on your first try..."

"Oh shut up," the hog badger growls under his breath, before getting ready to tackle the balance beam. One foot after another, he starts traversing the long bar - stopping midway through to regain balance as he manages to catch himself from plunging over. Slowly but surely, he manages to complete the exercise without getting muddied.

"That wasn't up to par. Again," Ludwig curtly replied, letting the others have a go as the hog badger runs to the back of the line.

What follows is a show of struggle. The monkey bars, which would have shown no hindrance to most of the contestants in normal conditions, prove to be extremely tough to tackle after the grueling morning drills. Sure enough, many of them soon begin to take the fall - the number of muddy mustelids growing by the minute.

"I don't want any crying on this course, Omar!" Ludwig yells as the marbled polecat slows down his pace on the bars.

"Who pissed on Ludwig's cornflakes this morning?" *camera shows the wolverine struggling to keep his posture on the balance beam, jumping off to the side to avoid getting muddied* "This is like the P.E. class from hell..."

~#26 Jeremy, 33, Wolverine, Front Desk Hotel Agent

Neither of the contestants seem to be able to perform at the unreachable level required by the host. Even Arron, the firefighter from Wisconsin, ends up taking a stumble as his sweaty paws lose grip on the bars - the badger stepping into the mud and barely able to avoid a complete fall. Soon after, Diego falls off the balance beam, hands first, earning a snicker from John as he struggles to get out of the pit.

"Theo, come up here..." the host stoat demands after seeing the poor performance of the otter, who snickers back at the crowd halfway between roguish and bashful - his clothes fully drenched in mud after two close encounters with the mud pit. "It's like you're not taking this seriously! One thing is being confident, and the other is clowning it up like you just did!"

"I'm laughing at this because it's how I tackle life." *the otter is shown nodding along the host, a mockingly serious grin lining his features* "I don't think this makes me less of a contender than others here - I see my clothes are muddied just as much as theirs, right?"

~#04 Theo, 22, Sea Otter, Lifeguard

The mustelids follow one another on the course, most having hesitation, stumbles and overall fear marked across their faces. Soon they're all standing in front of Ludwig, most of them dirty enough to prove their hard time on the course without a second word. "Since no one's performing to the level I expect to see. I need to set the boundaries straight. You're all looking down, afraid, slowing down, and I can't have that. I want you to go from start to finish. No pauses," Many in the group gulp, taking position once again in the line.

One of the mustelids looks close to reaching his boiling point. William, the Orlando-born weasel is clearly scowling as he swiftly tackles the bars, paying no mind to Ludwig's demands. "No stopping, William! No stopping, just go!" The weasel dismounts into the platform and makes a sprint on the balance beam, but almost reaching the end, loses his footing, being one of the first competitors to fall completely into the pit, spitting mud on his way out.

"For wanting to be fancy and show off, he literally ate all that dirt..."

~#01 Lloyd, 33, American Marten, Police Officer

"Guys, this is mud, this is whatever. I can get back up, stand up and clean afterwards." *clutches the front of his muddied shirt* "This is proof for all of you out there that I am William Viera and I am a fighter!"

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

Ludwig turns to the group, as production checks on the scrapes the weasel got in his stint. "At least he tried to do the whole course without stopping. Watch and learn!" he barks to the group.

Most of the contestants tackle the course once more, some failing again, but everyone clearly giving it their all. Eventually the stoat calls it off, satisfied with the group's progress. "You may be wondering why we did all of this..." he says. "Those who guessed your final task has begun already - well, they're right." Many contestants gasp. "You can say that, this was... a little taste for what is to come. You'll have a few hours to keep practicing, rest, refresh or anything you feel you need to do - then I'll see you again, this afternoon, to tackle the final challenge in the selection process. There's only twelve spots up there. And it could be up to anyone to win their way in."

The contestants mostly cheer, although some look pretty dumbfounded. "So what we did so far wasn't part of the test?" Aksel asks.

"I'm always watching... Everything will be taken into consideration in the final decision," Ludwig answers. "You ain't Alpha just from 9 to 5, right?"

_"I dunno whether to be relieved this morning is over, or afraid we got one more task to overcome. I'm half expecting he'll have us walking on fire coals or something! But at this point, my only focus is to get to the Burrow. Whatever it takes."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

The group eventually breaks out into different pockets. While some opt to go back to their barracks to change up and focus on the looming challenge, most of the contestants end up taking a break in front of the big apparatus they just tried to conquer, taking the hint that mastering said task could be the key into getting into that coveted mansion.

William and Diego sit on the ground, chatting it up, and letting their bodies recover for the next round, as others are swinging their bodies in the attempt to perfect their form.

"I'll say..." Diego laughs. (("It feels good to have someone here who l can just disconnect my mind, talk well and who ain't a full-blown lunatic, you get me?"))

The weasel nods. (("If we both progress, I'm gonna have your back until the end. Some of these people are already banding together, it's only fair that we take our precautions.")) He extends a paw to the Mexican stoat, the other doing the same and shaking it. (("Until the end?"))

(("Until the end,")) Diego nods. (("Can't wait to go see that Burro-"))

"WATCH IT-" there was not much time before one of the bodies took a tumble towards the pair. The officer John Blake lost his balance and tried to avoid falling head first into the mud. In the process, he significantly splashed up the shocked pair, Diego taking the larger brunt.

"¡Chinga tu madre!" the boxer explodes towards his fellow stoat, not bothering to revert to English. Right away, he's on his feet - his whole body shaking as William tries to hold him down. "You did it on fucking purpose, you-"

"I-I didn't do anything, you're the ones sitting next to the swamp!" John points to the obstacle course. Several of the mustelids' ears perk up, most of them turning their heads toward the commotion.

Diego pointed at John's face, growling. "Don't lie, you got me targeted! You got me targe- and I kept it to myself, but no more! If you gonna be an asshole to me, I'm settling this shit now!"

"Wait..." John looks around in shock, before doubling down as he sees the Mexican moving towards him. "Watch yourself, man. Don't yell or point at me, period!"

"Diego, stop. He's not worth it," William says, jumping up and trying to restrain his friend.

"Stay out of this," the Mexican says, before turning to the jailer. "Don't make me say it to you again - don't fuck with me."

John puts his paws forward, clearly annoyed at the incident. "Say it to me but like a normal fur," he raises his voice, leering at Diego. "You not gonna yell at me like a crazy person..."

"Oh yeah? And who's stopping me? You?" the Mexican presses on. Anger makes his pecs twitch. "As if..." he scoffs, stepping back trying to hold himself together.

The jailer turns to the other bystanders, shrugging in mock disbelief. "I thought you got to not sit next to the mud pit and watch out when others are doin' their shit!'' he yells back at the other party.

Diego turns and makes his way to John again. "YOU get it for the next time, brother!"

"Oh oh- wait... get it straight..." the jailer says, somewhat worried the confrontation might become physical, but clearly upset. "Don't come here and stir shit with me. Go make your show somewhere else..."

Diego shudders as he feels William's paw on his chest - the personal trainer attempting to diffuse the situation, knowing full well that any violence could mean the end of his friend's run on the show. He huffs, stomping his way back to the barracks. "Go back to your fucking home..." he says, turning towards his fellow stoat one last time.

John grumbles to Lloyd next to him, collecting himself from the ruckus. "Let's see who goes home first, shithead..."

_"The whole thing between John and Diego felt uncalled for, but at this point, everyone's focus is on making the final twelve. Some primal dynamic at work, you know? You can put together only so many type-A personalities before someone decides to stir drama."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter_

"Do you know if they have popcorn in the MRE's we got for lunch here?" Andrew asks Zakee in jest, the two looks at the scene from afar.

"Eh, let the gamecocks work it out..." the hog badger shrugs, paws behind his back.

"You do know we likely gonna have fights like that if we make it, right?" the polecat says.

"Why, wanna have a go?" Zakee replies in jest bravado. "Know I can wrestle yer ass into submission on that there mud pit like if ya were a fat pig!"

Andrew laughs. "You're welcome to try, dude," he says. "Though I'd rather you wait until we've both earned our place in the cast."

"Aw, ya got me into the twelve. So sweet of ya..." the hog badger cooes in a mocking tone.

"I mean... do we agree that there still is a lot of dead weight to whittle down?" Andrew asks, looking at his fellow competitors in the distance, still hanging around the mud pit. "I think we both have a very good shot." The polecat looks inside his military-labeled bag, grimacing as he digs out the food ration. When Ludwig said life in the barrack was going to be hard, he was not joking. "I guess someone already digested this chicken, huh?"

"Ain't got much choice," the badger shrugs. "And we need that protein if we wanna ace that final test," he says, before sinking his teeth into his ration.

"I'd kill for Texas barbecue..." Andrew sighs. "And you would kill ME for that too..."

"You can bet your ass I would," Z says with a laugh. "Beef brisket, sausage, ribs... dill pickle chips and jalapeños to finish it off with..."

"Z, stop or I'll slap you I swear..." Andrew playfully punches the hog's shoulder.

*camera focuses on Zakee and Andrew bantering* "Making the math, I'm pretty sure I am one of, if not the youngest among the remaining 24. My first beer wasn't even that long ago!" *chuckles bashfully* "And you see, coming forward as a serious competitor in this field is a challenge in itself. But I've shaken paws with bigwigs, I've put huge stages on a skeleton crew, me being the skeleton, so I gone got it to win this gig. To thrive in this competition, one's gotta be nice, but not a mat to get stepped on."

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

_"Andy's a little green, but he got heart. We're the only two Texans here, so I don't mind taking him under my wing for the time being, so to speak. Gonna see soon if he's made of steel or cardboard." *laughs*

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic_

***

4:30 PM

It's late in the afternoon. The 24 contestants walk through in a single line, dressed in clean, plain training clothes the production provided for. In front of them, a huge obstacle course awaits.

"First thing we see walking in, the mud rinkydink we got so much shit on, but on steroids. I've seen these kinds of races on TV plenty times, but seeing them in real life? It's next level..."

~#09 Casey, 45, Northern American River Otter, U.S. Army Sergeant

"Hi there, guys. Hope you've recovered from this morning..." Ludwig says, welcoming the group in. "This is your final challenge - the very last obstacle between yourself and a place in this show." He motions to the obstacle course behind him. "You gonna take a timed run of this beast, one at a time. You'll start off with the monkey bars and balance beam you practiced this morning..." some people look concerned as the obstacle comes into view, "...then you'll get to the next station, where you'll have to carry two 50kg dumbbells for 50 metres, one in each hand. After the farmer's walk, you gotta climb that beast - a 30-feet high cargo net with a 60 feet incline..."

"No joke," says Sebastian, his features betraying some degree of worry.

"Next up, we got three walls of increasing height - 6', 8' and 10' respectively. You gotta climb up and over each of these motherfuckers," the stoat goes on. "Once you're done, you gotta plunge into the freezing pool..." he says, motioning to a long dumpster filled with ice cold water. "You heard that right - take a plunge and dive under two sections of steel fencing. Make no mistake, that water's cold enough to get your balls retracting up to your stomach." Some guys instinctively cross their legs, others nervously snickering.

"Once you're out, you may head to the next station - a gym sled loaded with 150 pounds of iron you gotta push across that field. And finally, a 25-feet rope climb you ought to complete in order to ring a bell. Time only stops when you manage to smash that thing."

"Making the top 12 on this obstacle course, against these folks? Piece of cake."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor

"Now, you are asking yourselves "Ludwig, what's the catch?", right?" The cast nods and vocally agrees.

"See, unlike your previous tests, this is no "best of...". This won't be solely about who's the quickest, but we want to see how are you able to be effective in tackling a variety of obstacles. An Alpha needs to show what to do if they are faced with a challenge." Contestants nod along. "What awaits you at the 12 and on your route to the top is a variety of trials that you can't even fathom. And above all, I want the twelve who show the determination and the mindset needed to go ahead unafraid."

_"My job prepared me for all sorts of dangerous challenges and taught me to put fear on the side in order to solely focus on the task I've been assigned. Blazing onto flights of stairs in full gear, sitting in a hot box when the air around me is literally hotter than hell itself... I dunno what he got in store, but there's little he can come up with that I can't step up to."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter_

"I have no idea what Ludwig even means right now. So the bitches who didn't wake up at the 5 AM assault are at risk now? Does he want fighty fuckers in the top so John and Diego are good to go? Now I'm thinkin' of whatever I did to piss him off back then. But what's done is done, and what I'm gonna do is ace this course."

~#03 Azu, 27, African Clawless Otter, Tree Climber

"Now, I feel like we need to set the record straight, yeah?" Ludwig grins. "This is not a 'best of', but it doesn't mean you can slack off. Everyone who fails to complete this course, or does not comply with the rules, will not be taken in consideration for the selection of the 12, which means..."

Some people audibly gasp. "He good as gone..." a voice murmurs in between the crowd.

"Exactly, Diego..." Ludwig nods. "You get how much time you need on each section of the course. But if you give up before ringing that bell, or if you try to pull something out of the norm, you're heading to the bus."

"I won't lie, I'm somewhat taken aback. Some of these people have proven to be superheroes from the moment we started this. I'm athletic, I'm a shark when water is concerned - but at heart, I'm just a college radio speaker. To make it through this, I'll need to give 120% and hope someone else gives up before I do."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

"One last thing before we start... why don't we make things a little spicier?" Ludwig adds. "To make sure you perform at the top of your skills, the biggest reward awaits for the quickest two to complete the course. Those two will have secured the first and second spot in the final cast."

"Bitch... WHAT? Okay, now this shit is real. I need to get in that house at any cost, and that's the way to show these fellas how the gays get it done. Whoever succeeds can carry that respect far into the game."

#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

_"This is massive, this is my thing." *camera shows Z smiling earnestly, loudly thumping his chest with his huge fists* "If I waste this chance, I need to run away from home, change name and never return. That much I'm known for back in Porter."

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic_

"Take it as the stakes are high enough?" Ludwig asks with a grin. "I'll give you five minutes to get ready, then we'll get this done."

Camera zooms out as the groups break, contestants shaking limbs off and getting ready for the task to come.

***

"Omar, are you ready?"

The marbled polecat stands at the start, a defiant look on his muzzle. "Born ready!" he yells back, to the laughter and jeers of many contestants.

"On your marks, set, GO!"

Omar takes off, facing the monkey bars and the transition to the balance beam with relative ease. Some in the group cheer as he approaches the farmer's walk, gripping the barbells' handle with little hesitation and picking them off the ground before taking off.

"Omar's blazing through this," Ludwig comments, as the marbled polecat covers the requested distance without stopping once. "That's it, that's enough!" Next comes the cargo net - Omar initially struggling to find his footing, but getting the gist of it quickly. Through sheer determination he manages to traverse the net, the group cheering as he gets past the steepest incline. The polecat cockily waves to the crowd as he comes down, taking a breather before tackling the wooden walls.

"There is no stop clock or hints or anything that says how we're doing, so this is pure blind faith." *camera shows Lloyd and Akiva looking how the marbled polecat climbs the last wall* "Guess is up until deliberation to see who's who."

~#01 Lloyd, 33, American Marten, Police Officer

The crowd gasps as Omar plunges into the water dumpster, diving under the steel bar set midway before poking back up - his body visibly shaking from the exertion and the stark temperature change. "The water's about 35 degrees - it will affect your muscles and your lungs," Ludwig says, motioning to the crowd, as the polecat hoists himself out of the water hole and runs to the next obstacle. "That sled push is gonna be tough!"

"My legs are burning, my lungs are on fire..." *Omar is shown initially struggling to push the sled, until he manages to build a momentum and gain speed* "I keep talking to myself as I go through this - keep going, don't quit, ring that bell."

_~#40 Omar, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter _

"That's it, he completed the push!" Ludwig yells, as Omar rests off before the final obstacle - shaking the numbness off his limbs as he prepares to take on the rope climb. "Only 25 feet of rope divide Omar from a potential spot into the final 12," he says. The whole crowd goes silent as the polecat grasps the rope, then pulls himself up with a strong kick of his legs - moving onto the rope with slow, deliberate pulls, until he's close enough to take one paw off the rope and ring the bell. "YES!" he screams before letting his body slide down, some of the contestants cheering the polecat on, others looking increasingly worried after witnessing his strong display.

"Regardless if I get in the house instantly or not, I need to leave a statement that gets me into the twelve." *Omar throws himself on the ground, breathing heavily as the adrenaline drops down* "I can handle this and more..."

_~#40 Omar, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter _

_"Am I scared of the competition? Hell no. We're all here for a reason, and if I'm to doubt my skills just because marblecake here went and performed well, I might as well go home on my own now."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor_

The contestants start taking the course, one after another. Raymond, the youngest competitor left in the field, is shown visibly struggling on the cargo net - his feet repeatedly tangling up as he takes on the incline. Marten policeman Lloyd isn't faring better - him needing to take his time to get over the last wall after repeated failures. On the contrary, former SEAL Eddie easily blows through the first section of the course - the giant otter carrying the barbells without breaking a sweat. "That's how you do it!" Ludwig roars as the lutrine dives into the freezing water with no hesitation, getting under the steel fencing and to the other side in a single breath. All three are shown ringing the bell, their damp bodies trembling with exertion as they dangle from the rope.

"Eddie... he is strong competition. But if he gets in the top 12, I feel he'll be in for a rude awakening once he sees it's not all like if he was in the Navy. You can only cram so many otters at the top..."

~#03 Azu, 27, African Clawless Otter, Tree Climber

It's time for Casey, the forty-five year old Army sergeant, to tackle the course. He takes his time on most obstacles, mindful of his limits and not looking to overexert himself before the latter part. "Sergeant Engel is doing alright!" Ludwig cheers the grayish lutrine on as he gets off the cargo net.

He manages to climb over the first wall with relative ease, but the second is more of a struggle - him taking two attempts to get over it, clearly struggling because of the shorter run-up. Eventually he gets stuck on the third: his fingers grab the upper portion of the 8" wall, but he doesn't seem to be able to hoist himself up and over.

The otter makes attempt after attempt, results getting progressively worse as he goes - no matter how hard he charges the wall, he doesn't seem to be able to jump high enough to make it to the other side. Eventually he lets himself fall on the ground, sitting with his back against the lower wall as he takes a breather. "I can't do this..." he grumbles, shaking his head.

"Well , I thought I had a good plan in mind to make sure to tackle each part as it is needed, but then once you're out there you realize, this is real... and this is taxing. I feel I hit my peak, but I need to keep pushing..."

~#09 Casey, 45, Northern American River Otter, U.S. Army Sergeant

Casey steps back up, clearly shaken and exhausted. He attempts one last run at the wall, managing to grip the top and muster enough strength to pull himself over. But all he can do after completing his feat is to roll over his back, covering his face. The other mustelids on the sidelines encourage the otter to continue, but it's clear that Casey is already overtaxed.

"I can't do this, guys..." the Army sergeant says, all he could do to keep himself from breaking down.

"You're not gonna continue?" Ludwig asks.

The otter takes a look at the freezing pool, then shakes his head. "I'm done. Sorry guys," he says, clearly disappointed with himself.

"Don't be sorry, Sarge," the stoat presses on. "You performed at the top of your abilities and bested lots of people half your age in a snap. Your family got a real man at their helm, but I'm sorry to say, the Alpha journey ends here..." Casey nods, as other otters, namely Azu, Crispin and Eddie look somewhat crestfallen as they see the elder one wave off.

"Seeing Casey falter on the course definitely puts things into perspective. Aside from making me one of the eldest of the group immediately, it made me realize that there is more left in store for us as we progress. I can't just be good at it, I need to mentally prepare more..."

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

The trial continues. Kenneth swings like a madman on the monkey bars, completes the beam with ease, then tackles the farmer's walk without even so much of a breather. But it's Greasy Z to surprise most people: the mechanic is just as good as the crossfitter on the course and blows away the most technical parts, climbing the net in a clumsy but effective style in a matter of seconds. Eventually he faces the rope, the tiniest hint of hesitation crossing his features before he jumps on head first - his arms bulging as he hoists up, letting out a loud battle cry once he punches the bell at the top.

"I got no fucking clue of how I'm doing, I ripped my shirt on the wall climbing, I hit my head on the dumpster, but guess what? No way of stopping this hog!"

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

The crowd is cheering at James Sheehy, the self-proclaimed jacked geek from Iowa, as he's called to take his turn on the course. "It's my turn to get this and show one don't need hair dye or a show to do well..." James scoffs, making his way down.

The badger takes off with a good pace, making quick work of the early obstacles - but as others before is set back by the walls. At his third attempt to get over the last wall he manages to hook his leg over the edge, hoisting his body up and letting himself fall on the other side. His left leg touches the ground first, bending at a weird angle as James takes the tumble, grunting in pain.

*camera focuses on Sebastian, looking agape as James struggles to get back up* "Shit... he fell hard now. I've seen football players do the same thing, is he a goner now?"

~#02 Sebastian, 28, Tayra, Database Architect

"Medical!" Ludwig calls, as the chief of the production's medical team - a middle-aged Kuvasz dog - immediately comes to the side of the injured badger.

"Okay, stay still..." the doctor tells James, the mustelid's features scrunched in pain as the canine checks his injured leg. "Did you hear it snap?"

"No, not really," the badger grunts. "It's just a weird fucking bend..."

The doctor gently pokes around the outside of James' ankle, frowning as the badger clenches his teeth in pain. "I reckon you might have sprained your ankle, James - and a pretty severe one as well," he says. "I'd advise to let you get checked and have it treated immediately."

"It's nothing, doc..." The badger tries to get on his feet and walk, but it takes a single step for him to realize the situation is serious enough. "Shit..." he growls, doubled down in pain, as he sits back down on the ground.

Ludwig sighed, his ears dropping. "I'm sorry James, but I cannot let you continue in this competition in that state. You've been a trooper, but your journey needs to end here..."

"Seeing someone go like this is never a nice thing to see, but you can only hope they'll be safe in the long run, as it means a bigger chance for the rest of us. It's unfortunate, but it's how it is.."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

"I hate that I'm going out this way, because of a stupid injury that will be resolved in a matter of a week." *camera shows Dr. Paul and his assistant helping James out, the injured badger limping with his arms around both furs' shoulders* "I know this setback won't stop me from training hard and assert myself...if I can't be the American Mustelid Alpha, I'm happy enough to be the top mustie in Cedar Rapids. And it ain't over just yet..."

~#45 James Sh. 23, American Badger, Pharmacy Technician

"Alright, the show must go on..." Ludwig shrugs. "Chayne, your turn!"

The test resumes, as other mustelids take on the obstacle course. Chayne, the marten bartender, completes the monkey bars with the swiftness of a primate, the entire crowd cheering as he goes for the beam without so much of an hesitation. Diego, the Mexican stoat, grunts loudly as he pushes the iron sled, his muscular biceps straining with the effort. Otter arborist Azu struggles to finish the farmer walk, the lithe lutrine taking several short pauses as the heavy barbells prove to be extremely challenging to carry. Conversely, J.J. plunges in the water and dives under the steel fencing without any wavering, coming up in the middle with a gasp, then immediately diving under the next section. All four manage to ring the bell, loudly cheering as they celebrate having survived the course.

The camera focuses on another otter, college student Akiva, as he visibly struggles on the strength-based obstacles. His brownish coat is matted with sweat as he huffs, his arms visibly trembling while carrying the barbells across the finish line. His legs tangle up on the cargo net, the Floridian native pulling his foot out while cursing under his breath. He sighs, looking up, then resolves to keep climbing - carefully moving up the incline until he reaches the upper point.

"Go, 'Kiva!" the lutrine cheering squad supports him. "You can do it, dude!"

By the time Akiva reaches the final obstacle, he's worse for wear and heavily out of breath. He stops in his track, paws on his hips, looking at the rope with a murderous expression on his muzzle, then resolves to attempt the climb. He gets midway up the rope before his arms give up, the lutrine falling to the floor with a loud thud.

"I've done this a bunch of times before, but never after this grueling of an obstacle course." *camera shows him trying again and again, each time struggling to progress more* "I wish this to be over soon, I know I can simply call Ludwig and tell him I'm done...but I'm determined to finish this, no matter what it takes."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

The lutrine is sitting on the ground, his legs outstretched, trying to work some circulation in his arms. "My hands..." he tells Ludwig, pointing to the rope burns on his webbed paws.

"Take all the time you need," the stoat encourages him. "I'm not calling this off until you do."

Akiva nods, then gets back up - a determined look on his muzzle as he approaches the rope for what is his ninth attempt. He pulls himself up, legs and rudder wrapping around the bottom of the rope, then starts to climb with slow, resolute tugs. The whole crowd goes silent as the otter dangles, 20 feet in the air, seemingly about to drop once again. The lutrine's body tenses up, Akiva pulling himself up enough to take a paw off the rope and reach for the dangling bell. The entire group claps and cheers as the young lutrine lets himself drop to the ground, his body utterly worn out by the effort.

"Yeah, I took all the damn time in the world, yeah I am likely the slowest of all, but I am still in the race!" *Theo and J.J. immediately go to congratulate Akiva, the trio hugging it out as soon as the student has regained his breathing* "One big part of being an Alpha is never giving up, no matter what, and I know I will get recognized for it. I thought of reaching that end and I got it."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

"John Blake, go!" Ludwig shouts as the lithe stoat swiftly makes his way on the farmer's walk, the short mustelid displaying a tremendous amount of strength in the tough feat. But soon what started right quickly goes wrong: on the last stretch of the cargo net, one misstep makes his whole leg fall through one hole and get stuck.

"Ouch, John is tangled up!" the stoat yells. "That is unfortunate!"

"That's relative..." Diego scoffs from the grandstand, a wicked grin on his muzzle as he watches his rival struggle on the obstacle.

*the stoat rolls his eyes* "Fuck... this cannot cost me the race, come the hell on..." *camera shows John trying to get his leg unstuck*

~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

With one big yank, and a possible cut, John swiftly takes his leg out and makes his way to the walls. Having one of the most lithe builds allows the stoat to jump over the walls with ease, him completing the rope climb in a single attempt to cap off his performance. On the grandstand, Diego doesn't even hide his displeasure, turning to the other side as most of the group politely claps the jailer for his effort.

Meanwhile Jeremy, a tall wolverine from Michigan, is having a hard time on the rope. The camera closes up on his paws, tattered and bleeding after a few tries - the contestant sighing as he turns towards Ludwig. "I'm out..." he sighs. "I'd keep trying until it's dark, but my paws have decided it for me..."

"Good effort, dude," the host compliments the wolverine. "Been a pleasure having you here, and don't give up on your goals..."

"Never," Jeremy says confidently. "Good luck to everyone, guys! And may the best mustie win!" he cheers, waving to the rest of the group before heading out.

"Some of these folks may be absolute badasses in real life, but no matter how tough you act and how little of a shit you give, this course is proving to be a very good equalizer..."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor

The action speeds up as the last few contestants face their task. Michael Marshall, the powerful blacksmith from Montana, is downright impressive on the gym sled push - the behemoth completing the task on brute strength alone, propelling the heavy sled across the course as if it was unloaded. Together with him, other contestants - college teacher Aksel, tattooed bouncer Crispin, lifeguard Theo, medical technician Michael Larkins, roadie Andrew - complete the course. However not all goes well enough.

"Keep your arm straight..." the medical staff tells Sebastian, tending the tayra after he got his limb tangled in the rope, overextending it as he fell down. "It's very likely your tendon, so we advise you against continuing here..."

"It's okay," Sebastian nods, devastated that it was an injury that took him out of the running, instead of actually being bested by his opponents.

_"This is becoming a knockout competition very quickly... it sucks for people like Sebastian, but at the same time it's better for them to stop before their bodies give up on 'em. Once it's down to the top 12, it's gonna be dog-eat-dog, none of this clapping and cheering nonsense... so it's sorta better for people to realize it this soon."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter_

It's time for William to tackle the course. While most of the other contestants rely on their strength and grits, the least weasel displays perfect form as he makes quick work of the early stages - his experience as a personal trainer coming in handy on the most technical parts.

"William is blazing through the course!" Ludwig announces, as the second-generation Honduran manages to traverse the cargo net and let himself fall on the other side, immediately picking himself up to tackle the walls.

"Damn he's good..." Greasy Z begrudgingly admits, watching William jump over the walls in rapid succession without even so much of a break. Even taking a tumble after dipping into that ice-cold water, the weasel quickly recovers and sprints through to the rope. "I reckon I need to start watching my ass..." the hog badger sneers.

_"I don't need to strive for the best time. The moment I think of that, my performance would struggle. The key is to tackle it step by step..." *the weasel falters for a second on the rope, then recovers and rings the bell* "I've gone pretty underestimated this far, most people are taking notice of the military studs, the CrossFit people, the firefighters and so on... but I like to believe my showing on this course managed to turn a few heads." *grins proudly*

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer_

By now, the sun has fully set down, all mustelids having had their try on the course except for honey badger Arron. "Okay, we got just one more contestant coming... Arron, you're up," Ludwig calls the firefighter, him already gearing up at the starting line.

The group cheers as Arron takes off on the monkey bars and walks the balance beam with little hesitation - him having finally mastered the course after the morning struggle. He's shown completing the farmer walk with little effort, then climbing up the steep cargo net with the ease of a kid in a playground. Not even the freezing pool is an obstacle to the firefighter, although he needs to come up for a breather midway through. His black-and-white coat is still dripping as he takes on the sled push, struggling to get it moving at first but soon building a nice momentum.

"Let's go!" Kenneth yells, as Arron starts climbing the rope, barely hampered by the fatigue. He masters the obstacle like a pro, his tenacity and experience from the fire brigade coming in handy as he gets to the top in a matter of seconds.

"Arron is definitely someone I gotta keep an eye on. He talks a big game, but he definitely got the guns to back it up." *the honey badger is shown flexing his bicep and mockingly taunting his opponents, still hanging to the rope* "If he gets into the big house, he's definitely going to be on my radar."

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"And just like that, 20 of you remain in the running," Ludwig says, as Arron rejoins the crowd of remaining mustelids - many of his rivals patting him on the back and complimenting him on his showing. "You're free to take a break now, I will look over the tapes and give you updates pretty soon..."

As soon as he says that, a production member calls for his attention, having the stoat stepping away from the field to get briefed - the competitors looking at the scene in utter confusion. "What the fuck's going on?" Kenneth whispers into Azu's ear, only getting a shrug in response.

Ludwig comes back to address the group, the early mirth he had on his face about the challengers completing the daunting tasks now fully gone from his face. "So, there is indeed an update I need to give to all of you, before we continue on. Something odd popped up while watching the tapes, and I need to address it to you..."

The entire group looks bewildered, shooting looks and questions around each other.

"Zakee, will you step forward, please?" Ludwig sternly asks. Greasy Z comes out of the group, a bewildered look on his muzzle.

"You are here tonight because you've excelled on the first cut. But..." Ludwig shifts his focus to the rest of the mustelids. "...you all know there are rules in here. Rules that are here to guarantee the fairness of this competition. Rules that I trusted all of you to follow, and very specific instructions that we went over before starting this."

"I'm like...what kinda shit is he pulling off on me now?" *shrugs, a concerned look on his face* "I've done like a hundred of these, I know what you can do and can't..."

_~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic _

"So, you meant to tell me that he cheated on this part?" *the marten shrugs* "Cop instinct told me that wild-haired one was due to pull something shady, but you can't get away with it when there are cameras around. Cheaters never prosper, kids..." *smirks* "Good riddance."

~#01 Lloyd, 33, American Marten, Police Officer

"Zakee, are you aware of the rules in place here?" Ludwig presses on the hog badger.

"As everyone here," he scoffs. "I know for sure I didn't do anything wrong..."

*John eyerolls* "You can smell the bullshit in the air just as much as you can smell Zakee's breath. He could 'fess up and get out of here right now, but I'm sure he's gonna keep digging his own hole."

_~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer _

"We got the tapes, and we got everyone reviewing your every step, and after looking over what you did today, I'm afraid you leave me no choice..." Ludwig sighs. "Zakee, I'm going to ask you to go back to the barracks... pack your bags, and go..."

Greasy Z nods in disbelief, trying not to let his features give away what he was really feeling.

"...to the Burrow."

The group lets out a collective gasp, the hog badger's jaw falling to the floor as he realizes the meaning of the stoat's words. "You're fucking SHITTING me!" he roars at the host, halfway between angry and euphoric.

Ludwig couldn't contain his smile, dropping his stern act. "Yes Z, you posted the best time on the course... which means, you are our first finalist!" he tells the clapping badger.

"Hot damn, I'm in! *the badger cheers, struggling to contain his excitement* "Getting a head start over these fools to enjoy this mansion? Sign me the fuck up!"

_~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic _

_"Course the loudmouth gets it..." *shakes his head* "Getting rid of him this soon sounded a little too good to be true."

~#24 Michael M., 35, Wolverine, Blacksmith_

Ludwig interjects the celebrations. "But I'm not done, I'm not done!" he waves to the crowd calling for their attention. "I'm not done, Zakee, listen well... while you were the best of this challenge today, you must be aware that there is a lot to come now."

"Oh I do," the badger nods heartily, his confidence having fully returned.

"It is far from done at this point, and I need you to focus, I need you to improve and keep in great shape, only then you can take this competition. The war's not over..." he says. "But in the meantime, you can go ahead, and break into this new mansion fit for a king. You'll enjoy a good shower, a nice comfy bed, and most of all - a winner's dinner."

"Ya got me at 'dinner'!" Zakee interrupts after hearing the last part.

"But you know... having all of that big house by yourself is a bit lame, and being on your own hardly teaches you anything. And for that, I got you the perfect roommate for tonight. You know who it is?" the host teases.

"Huh? Who?" Z's immediate reaction looking back to the group, who still have not digested the whole scenario that unfolded in front of them.

_"It can't not be me. I'm heads and shoulders over this group, and if Z took first place, I know I can't be all that far behind."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor_

Ludwig points to the group. "Effective immediately, William also moves with you to the Burrow!"

The camera focuses on the personal trainer, as Diego and Akiva look at him behind them, a shocked look on his muzzle. "Me?" he asks.

"Yes, you!" the stoat laughs. "You posted the second best time on the course. You're in!" William makes his way down to the hog badger, still in shock. Ludwig then turns to the group. "So, Zakee and William, head on to the Burrow for a nice meal and a good night of sleep. The rest of you? You'll be stuck at the barracks, and wait for the deliberation tomorrow."

The rest of the group, while politely clapping, are displaying a wide range of expressions - from fake smiles to pressed scowls.

"It sucks major balls that we gotta spend another night in the barracks, while the lucky couple will likely make a mess of all the amenities..." *camera focuses on Z bro hugging William* "I deserve to be there more than them. But you can't argue the clock, I guess... *sighs*"

~#40 Omar, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter

_"The barracks aren't that bad, as long as our pack sticks together..." *the younger otters are showed playfully fistbumping at the thought* "I just hope we won't be set apart come the final deliberation."

~#28 Raymond, 21, European Otter, Clerk_

"And guys..." Ludwig called out. "I need to find the barracks way better than you found them... So you're going to have to clean the whole place and their surroundings."

***

The eighteen remaining contestants take the night into cleaning every little bit of the barracks they spent the previous night in.

"Such a fucking pigsty..." Azu grumbles, chucking stray leaves and twigs in a pile. "I don't get why we're supposed to slave around..."

"Yo..." Kenneth spoke to the group as a whole, while on his knees cleaning the floor. "Cheer me up, name reasons why you happy Zakee and William ain't spending the night here. Go..."

"I don't have to smell Z's stinky hide!" Michael Marshall says, making his bed above the one the hog badger has left empty. "Do Texans believe in showers or?" the hypothetical making Andrew jokingly protest.

Immediately Raymond backs up the wolverine. "He doesn't snore, he snorts..." the otter imitates the oinking of a pig to drive his point home.

"And like..." Crispin adds, sweeping the floor with a big broom. "I don't need to see that car-crashed face of him every time I go taking a piss..."

"But you know what?" the badger CrossFit trainer asks the group. "I'd gladly take all that and much more instead of your fucking asses here," Kenneth lets the sentence hang as the rest looks perplexed. "Cuz that means I'd have to face all that shit... in that mansion!" a statement which most of the group either agreed or laughed at.

"One more night of this ain't that bad, now that we got six less people hoarding these barracks." *shrugs* "Those two can get shitfaced for all I care, it'll be all the more worthy when I join them tomorrow!"

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor

"I got another question," Omar asks the group, as he finishes cleaning up the space below his bunk. "Who thinks they made it? Like seriously, who believes they got it and has the balls to say it out loud?"

"I think all of us think they made it, that's kinda obvious..." Chayne, the blonde New Yorker, interjected, tying his long hair back. "The spicy question would be who we think did NOT make it, but you ain't ready for that convo..." he shrugged, stashing his belongings in his bags.

"Oh shush," Michael Larkins popped in. "I'm sure we all could name names, at this point. I don't think saying someone performed worse than others is gonna hurt anyone's feelings."

"Just saying that some of you are pressed, with a capital P, PRESSED... that the party animal and the team dad got the big win and you did not." Chayne shrugs, feeling the tension in the barracks rise. "Just the truth, fellas..."

"Because you aren't?" John chimes in from his bunk. "Everyone here is sulking. Let's not pretend it's any different for you so you can act superior."

"No one's actin' superior at all," the marten responds to the jailer. "Come the next challenge, I'm out here to give my best, and continue to do so. No one wins everything in a reality show..."

The stoat sneers. "If you even get there. Dunno if you noticed, but tomorrow eight of us will be packing our bags... and if I was you, I'd get a head start on that."

"Pfft..." Chayne scoffs. "How's the leg, by the way?" the marten's off-handed jab catching John off guard and prompting Diego to shoot a curt laugh at the jailer's clear discomfort.

"Talk shit, get hit..." Michael Larkins whispers to Aksel, as he watches the scene unfold in front of him.

"I am not going to let John toss me around without stepping up. I reckon he's intimidated by me and how a queer bartender from NYC could outdo his 50s G.I. Joe-looking tail on an obstacle course. I met PLENTY of John Blakes in my life, and where they at today? Done for."

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

Outside the barracks, Akiva is on his own - the young lutrine having left the sleeping quarters as soon as the confrontation started. J.J. follows him, noticing his sulking mood. "What up, 'Kiva?" the triathlete asks, wrapping an arm around his shoulder.

"I'm like... this is the end for our pack, right?" Akiva asks. "I'm pretty sure I missed the cut, and to be fair, I sorta think it's fine as is. The testosterone in there is getting unbearable."

"Heh, you can say that again, bro," J.J. says, his whiskers twitching. "You and the other folks have all done amazing on the course today. We're still in five going into the final deliberation, and that's something to be proud of, I feel."

"Oh that, yeah..." the younger otter nods. "I just don't think I'm cut for how those people are treating this show, acting like they gotta put on this tough façade 24/7..." he says. "I was this close to raising my paw when Chayne asked who thought he was about to leave."

Theo, who was close to the pair, interjects. "I mean, dudes are just gonna burn out, let's just chill and it'll all work fine for us, ain't that right, J.J.?" he says with a grin.

"Yep, definitely," the triathlete nods. "We've proven our worth, now it's out of our paws. If they wanna keep at it until Ludwig comes in to calm 'em down with a fire hose, by all means let 'em."

"I hope like... at least we can promise each other that whoever of us ends up making the cast, will do his best to make sure an otter gets the crown," Theo says, extending a paw to the other two. "You in this?"

"Don't look at me," Akiva shrugs, raising his arms in disbelief. "I took ten minutes to complete the course... but if for some lucky reason I'm a finalist, I'm sure as hell in."

"I'm in," J.J. says, shaking the lifeguard's paw. "Anything to not see any of those douchebags walking away with the title..."

"Sure, the... otter bros squad is really cute and all, but in the end, it's every man on his own. Nothing personal, nothing mean, call me after the taping is done if you want a drink, but I'm here for one thing and one thing only - the big prize."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager

***

7:30 PM

"HONEY, I'M HOME!" Greasy Z yells as the hog badger practically kicks open the doors to the Burrow, the large mansion where the top twelve would reside for the rest of their stay in the show. William follows suit, the weasel more mesmerized at the surroundings, struggling to keep up with his fellow competitor's pace.

"You gotta be kidding me..." the weasel looks up at the lavish household. The ground floor features a massive living room, with plush sofas, couches and a kitchen area complete with an enormous fridge, a full pantry and a never-ending number of appliances. The main living space communicates with the activity room - home to a makeshift weight room, a 25-yard small lap pool, a hot tub and a large sauna. A communal bathroom with open, wall-less shower stalls, similar to what might be found in a real gym, leads to a changing room and the outside - making it easy for the mustelids to get changed and cleaned up after whatever challenge they might be coming back from.

"Holy shit, this is like the ultimate frat house..." Z says, opening the various drawers, before turning to William, a quasi-serious expression on his maw. "With or without your permission, Billy, I need to properly break in, especially at this moment..." the hog badger says, quickly kicking off his shoes, socks, shirt and pants, effectively ending in just his boxers.

"What are you doing now?" William asks, shaking his head.

"This is MY house. And in MY house, I walk around like this..." Zakee scoffs. "Dontcha think you going to spend your time in the fancy dresses you brought?" the badger retorts, pointing at William's massive suitcase. "We're free to do whatever we want, dude. And I'm gonna take every advantage of that."

_"Z's like... a bull in a china shop." *camera pans on the hog badger dive-bombing on the biggest couch, as the weasel instinctively shoves his discarded clothes to the side* "It's sorta hard to keep him focused on something, he's gonna like... dive onto the next shiniest object he sees. He's a fun time, but like hell Imma room with him." *laughs*

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer_

"I reckon we should go check upstairs?" the weasel asks the hog badger as he lies sprawled upside down on a sofa.

Z immediately gets to his feet. "You know it, man!" he says. "Let's get the best beds there are in this bitch!"

Before William goes up to select the bed he wanted, the weasel stops in his tracks as he details something in the main hall: two jerseys and a letter.

"Zakee? Z, you gotta see this!" William shouts down the hallway.

The hog badger stops in his tracks. "What now?" he bellows. "What did you find?"

The weasel opens the envelope, taking the task of reading it for both. "Congratulations to whoever two stood above the rest in the first challenge. While it may all seem fun and games right now, being the standout comes with big responsibilities... " William grimaces, looking at the mohawked badger.

"I just KNEW coming in first would come with a catch!" *laughs, shaking his head* "But that's fine, we're here living the dream while the rest of the folks are stuck cleaning those barracks..."

_~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic _

"...In three days from now, the very first challenge will take place, and as the top mustelids from the big cut, you will be te-... team captains."

"Wait what?" Z asks, trying to read over the weasel's shoulders.

"Wait a sec..." William leans to the side. "As team captains, both of you are tasked to select five out of your other ten rivals and form a team fit to beat your opponent. The first placed competitor will get first pick of either black or white gear and teammates, schoolyard-style."

_"Wow, this is big! I dunno yet who will join us and I'm already picking my team in my mind. Now knock on wood they all qualify! *laughs*

~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic _

"This means we are fighting each other first thing as we start this ride..." William comments.

"I mean, it had to happen at some point," Z frowns. "Hope you won't mind taking one for your team, because I got this in my pocket!"

"Oh shush..." William shrugs before continuing to read. "It is up to you whether you keep this knowledge to yourself or not. In the meantime, get the spoils you deserve, pick the bed you want and enjoy a special dinner made for winners. This is a one-time offer, as you are responsible for your own cooking from now on. The Alpha journey starts here, have fun!"

"We will," Z nods in agreement. "So what did it say? We gotta pick between... team black or team white?" the hog badger says, taking the two jerseys in his massive paws.

"Such a dilemma, eh?" William jests. "I honestly don't mind, suit yourself..."

"Gonna take black," Z says without so much of a doubt. "Looks better against my fur anyway!"

"I think I got the people in mind I'd like. Sure, Z here might get first pick, but I think I can outsmart him. If I get guys like Diego, Kenneth, Azu, Arron on my team, I feel I could surprise, and give a little bit of a curse to that #1, if you know what I'm saying..."

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

The pair walks upstairs to check their sleeping quarters. The upper floor is no less ostentatious than the lower: a broad bathroom and three massive bedrooms with four beds each, all large enough to assure comfort at any size. The bedrooms have distinct themes to them: the decor of each room is inspired by some kind of natural ecosystem, adding to the primal feeling tying up with the peculiar "Alpha" vibe of the show. Portraits and prints reminding of huge, feral predators appear in the decor: lions and cheetahs in the savanna-themed room, sharks and orcas in the ocean room, while jaguars, snakes and crocodiles adorn the jungle room.

"Geez, this looks fancy as hell. The kinda stuff you only see on HGTV..." the badger comments, laying face down on the bed he's just picked for himself. The black jersey he chose for his team is draped over the headboard, almost "marking" the bed as his own property.

"I've been cramped enough, so hope ya don't mind I set my nest in the other room. You can burrow and oink all you like..." William nods.

"Suit yourself, dude..." Z replies, unfazed. "I can only imagine how the rest of the folks are taking this..." he mumbles, raising and lowering his legs. "They'll be talking so much shit about the two of us... I don't think I care all that much, do you?"

William has an idea in his mind that made his ears perk. "You know, Z, idea. Let's act the fools.. ." the golden-colored mustelid takes the note on his paws and rips it in half, crumbling the pieces and throwing it in the nearest trash bin. "Guys don't need to know we're caps just yet," he looks up and retrieves the badger's black jersey for him, tossing it by his side.

"I like that!" Z perks his ears, stuffing his jersey under the bed. "Can you imagine the look on their faces when they finally know? Some of them will be eating so much shit it ain't even fair!"

"Speaking of eating... one-time only offer downstairs, right?" the weasel looks at the door. "I'm famished, and these guys better not be exploiting anything of a reward that's meant for us two... Meet you there, aight?"

At the mention of food, Zakee jumps off his bed and sprints past the weasel. "BEAT you there!"

*sighs* "If I can handle five kids, I can handle one wild Zakee..." *camera shows the hog badger rushing to the fridge, immediately taking out a giant lobster tail and shouting "BILLY, YOU GOTTA SEE THIS SHIT!" loud enough to be heard* "...at least on paper."

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

***

Back at the barracks, most of the contestants are sitting off in groups, either waiting for their turn to get cleaned or just getting to know each other better. A distinct camaraderie is building across the group, such as is bound to happen with so many type-A guys stuck in the same room for a while.

"So, Chayne. I got two guesses on why the rainbow flag stickers on your luggage and bet it ain't cuz you liked the colors..." Azu, the Nigerian otter, comments.

"Took you long enough to figure," the marten answers with a smirk. "Y'all stand reassured still, I'm not gonna make a move on anyone here... unless you want me to, of course," he jokes, some among the contestants laughing along, others making a face.

"I mean, whatever floats your boat, or gets you laid," Crispin shrugs. "Nothing I haven't seen before back at the club... "

"Ah shit yeah. We got a bartender and a bouncer. We're only a stripper short and we got ourselves a joint!" Raymond yells to the group, laughing along. "Anyone wanting to volunteer?"

"Only if you tip..." Chayne winks.

"I know you'd do that for free, thank you very much," the shaggy-haired Californian otter retorts. "I'm just like, we got enough material here to make up the second coming of the Full Monty."

"Yeah sure, for free..." the marten scoffs. "And miss on about a thousand on tips on a packed night? Look at this clown, stripping for free..."

"Pussy," Theo scoffs. "I'm like... just admit you're already attracted to someone here."

"You wish, dude..." Chayne rolls his eyes.

"That ain't how you reacted when we were waiting on our turn to run looking at the others," Aksel chimes in, the whole group noticing and looking at both martens as Chayne's theater crumbles miserably.

"Well you can't pretend I'm in the middle of this and not even taking a look, now can you?" the marten says, trying to defend himself. "Regardless, I'm here to compete, not to hook up. Make of that what you will..."

"I'm used to being around jocks and being picked on for my sexuality, it's like a zoo exhibit. It's definitely annoying, because I can tell some of these folks aren't taking me seriously - but at the same time, I can hit them where it hurts and send them home if I so want."

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

"Hey, let the dude be..." Eddie, the giant otter, shrugs as he walks in wearing just a towel, his fur still damp in places after the shower. "We all here for the quarter million, and we could all be in contention to get it. If he has an advantage cuz all looks pretty for him on his way to the top, guess it's good for him, eh? And bad for all of us..." the lutrine flexes his pecs as he asks rhetorically, knowing full well he has Chayne's attention.

Most of the people laugh at the display, some shaking his heads in disbelief as the former SEAL makes his massive pecs dance in turn - the lutrine showing an excellent muscle control, his brows moving in sync as he flexes his pecs one at a time and then together at growing speed. "And that's just the pecs. I got a chock fulla other tricks..." he winks.

_"I can say I definitely did not expect THAT from Eddie." *shakes his head* "Dude acts all rough and tough, but he can turn into a party animal if he wants to!"

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

_"What can I say..." *shrugs, still laughing* "This was a favorite way back in Navy training camp. Guys always had a good laugh over the pec dance... and I'm like, if I get a chance to impress these people and let loose a little - that's a good thing, aight?"

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman_

Some of the guys jokingly clap at the otter's display, Chayne joining it in jest. Eddie takes it with a flourish, not failing to notice the marten's rapt gaze. "Don't drool, Chayne, it ain't a good look..." he snarks, as he goes to his side of the bunk beds to dress up.

_"I gotta say...if this is the standard, I don't mind sharing an entire month with these guys!" *various contestants jokingly pat Chayne on the back, the marten taking it in jest* "Some degree of provocation will still be there, and if that includes some gratuitous nudity, I can't say I'm against it... But really, it's nice to see most of these folks being cool about it."

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender_

It doesn't take long for all the mustelids to settle down in their bunks, some immediately falling asleep, others quietly chatting with the contestant nearby. The camera focuses on John, looking at the ceiling from his top bunk and flicking his tail.

"Z and William may have the spoils for now, they can get comfortable, and these guys can act the clowns all they want. I'm here to make my family's life better. When I win this, I know the money will serve to help Bruce later in life, and see him becoming the great man I know he is. I'm an Alpha because of him and Lindsay, and I want them to see that jokers cannot trump over the King."

~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Anything can happen, you know? I know the house got two amazing competitors, but that only puts more pressure on me. I know I can tell pups all around that the journey starts when you want it. When I get into that house, I'm taking no prisoners..."

~#36 Diego, 32, Stoat, Warehouse Worker

***

Back at the Burrow, Z and William have finished their meal and are now setting down for bedtime themselves. The weasel takes a long shower as his companion immediately heads back to his bedroom, resting off the massive lobster dinner they've both enjoyed. Eventually, William comes back from the bathroom, joining the hog badger on a nearby bed.

"Confession time, Will? I was actually feelin' the barracks. Nothing like good god roughin' it, those guys can't appreciate the experience, I tell ya..." he reminisces, not bothering being demure as he let out a heavy belch.

"Excuse you," the weasel replies, "but some of us didn't come here to play war. And I can tell this house is gonna feel a lot more like those barracks once ten more people have moved in..."

"Speakin' of, who you bettin will be roomin' with ya tomorrow? And who flyin' back home?" Zakee asks, seeing if his composed roomate lets some truth nuggets out.

"Well, nothing against the others, but I reckon I'd rather have Diego here. Most of the other people over 30 have little in common with me, not to mention the youngsters... I'll say this though, if we manage to get rid of a couple of the young hotshots, I'll actually be relieved."

"My main concern is that I'm on a different path in life than most of these folks...I'm 34, I got five kids, a steady business and a loving wife, while some of the people here have barely moved past the college phase. Living together will actually be more challenging than the competition itself."

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

"Gimme Andy, gimme Azu... Ken's good, Diego's good, just don't give me an asshole... I dunno who out there is, but maybe the big wolverine guy. He rooms with ya if he gets in," Greasy Z jokes to the weasel as he pulls his body under the soft covers.

"I'm just like - 30 days in here, tempers are gonna flare...I know we're gonna be competitive and take it out against each other, but if we can be civil around the mansion, all the better," William says, getting up. "You know some of those people are gonna explode at some point, do you really want to be around that?"

"If ya don't, there is one quick way for ya to get outta that..." the hog badger snorts as he looks out the door, letting the joke simmer in the dead air.

William laughs. "Well duh," he says. "But like...I hope you're prepped to smell a lot of it, if you catch my drift."

"Oh, you meant that kinna explode..." Zakee sneers.

"I mean, like... all that testosterone is gonna go somewhere, right?" the weasel shrugs. "I know for a fact it's gonna be hard for me to stay away from my wife and live as a recluse... I can't even imagine what it's gonna be like for some of those folks."

The hog badger lets out an oink, blinking at William. "...Oh, THAT kinna explode, hah! Whatev' suits ya, just lock the bathroom door behind ya..."

"Dumbass," William mouths, facepalming. "Can you actually be serious for a sec?"

"I'm just fuckin' with ya, Billy Bob," he bellows. "Skunks, weasels, badgers, otters and that kinda guys be like that, ya just gotta survive, be it you hitched or a single pringle. And if ya can't make it on yer own, bye..."

"Rooming with a buncha bros definitely suits me, you know. I'm used to the roughhousing, the bathroom jokes and all that jazz - this is gonna be just that, but cranked up to eleven. And I can easily control myself for a month with 250k on the line. I'm here for a good time, and that includes having fun and winnin' big."

_~#19 Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic _

"Sleep tight, pig..." William jokingly comments, making his way out of the room and to his own bedroom.

"Ah, ya just reminded me..." Zakee replies, motioning his paws under the covers, and tossing his boxers to the side. "In MY house, I sleep like this..."

"Dude!" the weasel exclaims at the display. "We got eyes in here, you remember?" he says, pointing at the remote control camera dangling from the ceiling.

"Ain't gonna pull out my covers, nothin' they can see..." he chuckles. "Plus, what makes ya think they ain't in the shower as is? And the big communal one downstairs is all open and shit... I reckon you'd better get used to see a lot of hides while in here."

William nods along. "I'm not a prude, you know," he says. "Just... this will take time to get used to."

Zakee yawns. "Ok, go to bed now. Ain't riskin' Ludwig coming back with a hose without at least some good sleep prior... "

***

_February 19, 2020

11:00 AM_

It's late in the morning, the weather cloudy and threatening rain, as the eighteen remaining mustelids file in and gather in a crowd in front of the hangar. Greasy Z and William are waiting for them, the hog badger smirks, silently motioning at the weasel, as he takes notice of how tired some of the contestants look. Z has also taken the opportunity to swap the neon green mohawk he had for a no-less discreet cyan hairdo.

"Welcome, guys," Ludwig says, beckoning the crowd as he steps in. "First of all, congrats to the eighteen of you. It's been a tough couple of days for everyone, but you stepped up to the challenge and survived it all. At this point, though..." he says, "...just surviving doesn't cut it anymore."

The contestants tense up as the stoat continues, walking back and forth in front of the group. "We've thought long and hard on who will end up completing our final twelve. It wasn't easy, but it is set. For eight of you, this is as far as you're going to come."

_"I've got way too much riding on this to be coming up short at the very last stage. This is my make or break moment, and I know I deserve to have my name called by Ludwig."

~#33 Crispin, 29, European Otter, Bouncer_

"I'm in it to win it, dudes. I pretty much excelled in all that was asked and I passed it all with flyin' colors. So that house better be ready for the Otterwatch!"

~#04 Theo, 22, Sea Otter, Lifeguard

"Will... Lloyd and Arron... take a step forward?" the host asks as the marten and the honey badger come out of the group, their faces not letting any emotion show as they stand next to each other.

"It's clear you two are of the guys with the strongest wills of the bunch. You're both used to being in charge in your everyday life, and you both have shown to be dedicated, competitive and gritty enough to succeed in this show. But one thing's for sure: one of you outdid the other in every challenge, and showed more determination once the pressure was on. Therefore, the first key to the Burrow goes to..."

The honey badger and the marten wait at bated breath.

"...Someone who actually placed first in the first cut above all 45... someone who once said to me 'I put all fires out but my own'... Arron, that's you!"

"YES!" Arron says, pumping his fist in celebration, then turning to the defeated Lloyd for a quick bro hug before joining Greasy Z and William on the side. The policeman shakes paws with Ludwig one last time before walking out, his head lowered in disappointment.

"I'm in, baby!" *mockingly celebrates at the camera* "In AND the number one on the first cut? This is going to be great. Honey badger's here to stay, take no prisoners and conquer the title!"

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

_"Arron... he's definitely going to be a tough nut to crack. He excelled at pretty much every challenge we've done this far, and actually has enough life experience to be threatening even for the most accomplished."

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer_

"Jordan, I mean J.J.... and... Akiva..." Ludwig reads out, as he saw the two short otters step forward.

_"When I hear Ludwig calling me and J.J., my heart skips a beat." *the younger lutrine looks concerned as he stands next to the triathlete* "He's a good friend, but above all, an amazing competitor..."

~#32 Akiva, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student_

"At first, I thought this wasn't going to work, but I stand corrected," the host says. "There was wit, consistency and a drive that is necessary in this competition. It was not easy, as everything had to be taken into consideration... but only one can make it. Akiva..."

Ludwig looks down, then to the otter, as J.J. looks crestfallen just as he hears the other otter's name being called out. "...the journey ends here. J.J., come get your spot."

J.J. immediately turns to his friend to console him, Akiva smiling instead and reaching for a hug. "It's fine, dude... it's totally fine," he says.

"You done great, 'Kiva," J.J. whispers in the Floridian's ear. "Stay strong, dude. And be proud of yourself."

_"It's good to be in the top 12, it's a recognition of all the work I put in and how hard I pushed myself..." *J.J. is shown shaking paws with Z, Arron and William* "I never bought into the idea that me and the lutrine squad were meant to move forward together, but now that it's coming down to eat or be eaten, I can't help but feel a little for those who gonna be left out." *Akiva takes his time saying goodbye to the other young otters, before eventually bowing out and waving to the group*

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

Soon as Akiva has left the scene, Ludwig moves to the next pair on the list. "Next up... two of our international fellas. Omar, Aksel, come on down..."

"So here we got... a high school teacher from Denmark, and a translator from Jordan," the stoat says, as the pair takes place in front of him. "You two have been neck and neck throughout all of this, and both showed promise... but only one was deemed to have what it takes to be part of this cast," he says, milking the moment. "Omar, I'm talking about you. Sorry, Aksel."

The marbled polecat bows in shock, covering his face. "OH MY GOD WHAT?" he says in disbelief as he walks towards Ludwig, extending his paw to shake the host's.

Ludwig is quick to reciprocate. "How do you say, 'I'm ready to win this!' in Arabic?"

"2ana musta3id lil-fawz bihadhihi al-lu3ba," Omar answers without skipping a beat, impressing the other rivals.

"Alright, go take your spot!" The marbled polecat practically rushes to the other four who made it, immediately jumping at J.J. and grabbing him in a bear hug.

"Sure, it all sucks now, but I made it pretty far. Not bad for a Dane, and bet this is not the last you'll hear from me..."

~#22 Aksel, 31, Beech Marten, Natural Science Teacher

"Okay now... let's move on. I want... Raymond... and Andrew."

The long-haired Californian otter and the Texan polecat share a fistbump before taking their spot in front of the host.

Ludwig crosses his arms, looking at both of the competitors. "See, this is the problem that I have...you two are the youngest of the bunch. The fellas behind you and the ones selected are older, hence wiser, and I feel they got that experience needed to stand to what's to come. I feel it could even be a mistake, to put you two on this position of stress and high octane physical activity at this stage in your life when you're not ready for this yet..."

"Me and Andy might be the youngest, but that doesn't mean we ain't serious about this. We can take on any of the older folks, be it John, Z, Eddie, anyone..."*frowns* "We just need this one shot, you know?"

~#28 Raymond, 21, European Otter, Clerk

"I might be 22, but I've been working my ass off ever since I was of age. I'm old enough to put in the same effort as my older colleagues, but mostly - I'm old enough to choose what's better for myself. I'm here for a reason, my jaws are clamped around this prey and I'm not letting it go."

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"But a decision has been taken about you two, and I can say right now... that Andrew... you need to go... "

The polecat nods, his ears falling flat on his head.

"...get your spot, because you are in American Mustelid Alpha!"

"AAAAAH!" the polecat yells in disbelief, covering face with his paws. "Holy shit! Woo... yeah..." Andrew walks down the group. "Sorry for cursin' on TV, mom..." he laughs.

"And don't forget, you are young. You can adapt, grow and teach these salty old sailors a thing or two!" Ludwig encourages the polecat as he goes to high five his fellow Texan, the hog badger.

_"Oh man, man, man..." *Andrew grins, struggling to contain his excitement* "I don't even know where to begin. The competition is on, and I bested like thirty people to stake my claim." *laughs in disbelief* "I'm not underrating my competition, I know some of them are a force to be reckoned with... but I'm not gonna be a pushover, that I guarantee. If they want my scalp, they better earn it."

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie_

As soon as the cheers die down, Ludwig turns to the ten mustelids still awaiting their verdict. "I'd like to have here... Crispin..." The tall lutrine bouncer steps forward, standing in front of Ludwig.

"...and Eddie."

The group behind the otter murmurs as the former SEAL walks next to Crispin, the two lutrines mirroring each other's stance, not letting any emotion show.

_"When I hear Ludwig calling Eddie, my heart skips a beat. It's like... he's pitting me against the one guy who looks like a better, more successful version of me. I've no idea what's about to happen..."

~#33 Crispin, 29, European Otter, Bouncer_

"It's clear Cris and I are cut from the same cloth. I do feel I excelled more, but I had Aksel in, I had Lloyd in, and they are not here anymore."

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"I guess both of you know you're quite different from the other otters in this competition..." Ludwig says, both candidates nodding along. "You both are the big, strong, no-nonsense kind. A former Navy SEAL looking for the next challenge in life, against a Californian bouncer going all out to provide for his son. Your motivations are strong, and you proved it from the very first moment you stepped out of that bus. I've thought long and hard about who of you two should get this shot."

Ludwig looks down before giving his verdict. "Crispin, come get your pass."

The European otter breathes a sigh of relief, patting Eddie's back on his way to the selected group. Conversely, the giant otter had little reaction, paws on his hips, a stare at his surroundings; he simply did not believe this was really happening.

_"It's hard to accept I got bested by Crispin, but eh..." *shrugs* "Not the worst spot to be in, really. He deserves this shot more than most people here, he can make something out of himself." *camera focuses on a surprised J.J., as Crispin shakes paws with William*

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman_

_"Well then... As much as I can't believe what I'm seeing, like, I can't help but think 'one less mustie'. Eddie's a big fish in this pond, and it looks like we caught him early."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter _

"Eddie, understand this was a difficult decision, and the debate was long and heavy," Ludwig motions to the group, then turned towards the former SEAL. "A lot was determined, but a lot of questions were left unanswered..."

The giant otter nods along, Crispin feeling especially bittersweet about seeing his ally in that position.

"But I'm not the kind to keep loose ends untied," the stoat goes on. "I want answers and I will get them... Come get your spot, Eddie."

The entire group gasps as the lutrine steps forward, clenching his fist in celebration. "You almost had me for a sec, Ludwig..." he playfully chides the host, before joining the other qualified contestants.

"YES! ...Yes!" Crispin doesn't bother to hide his excitement. The two big otters immediately share a bear hug, Eddie almost picking his friend off the floor as they celebrate.

"Fucking Ludwig, fucking show..." *laughs* "I felt my fur going grey, my heart's poundin', this aged me like twenty years... but I got it. I wanted it and I got it! Time to take it to the top!"

~#30 Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

*camera focuses on the blonde marten with a stoic face* "Sure, this is gonna make cute TV once the editing is all set, but here's the thing. Now there's NO second chance for the rest of us, it's yes or no, it's do or die..."

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

"Okay now... we got eight contestants and four spots left to assign. Michael..."

Both the wolverine and the otter flinch at their name being called. The wolverine cocks his head in confusion as the otter looks at the host.

"We got two Michaels, don't we?" the stoat smirks. "Y'know what, come both here."

The pair steps forward, playfully looking at each other: a brawny, muscular brute of a wolverine, with biceps the size of coconuts forged through years of heavy duty at the forge, against a lithe lutrine whose body seemed to be built for cardio activity. "Seems like the only thing you got in common is your name, don't you think?" Ludwig presses on. "That's enough to set the two of you apart, because only one Michael will end up joining this cast."

"If I got to choose, I'd rather have Larkins. Marshall may be big and buff, but he ain't the kind you'd want to face in a dark alley, much less living in the same house as me!"

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

_"Are you kidding me? Give me the 'rine, will ya? There's room for just one otter triathlete in the Burrow, and he already got the keys..."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

Ludwig looks at both. "The Michael that's going home, is... Michael Larkins."

As his opponent's name is mentioned, the wolverine lets out a huge roar. Some contestants look startled as he comes forward to shake Ludwig's paw, joining the ever growing group without too big of a fuss. A few of the other mustelids pat him on the back in support, the dark-furred beast paying no mind to their attempts to fraternize.

"Am I happy? Course I am!" *clenches fists* "But from now on, this is a fuckin' war of attrition. We're gonna take it out against each other real soon. And excuse me if 250k on the line feel more important to me than buddying up to these people."

~#24 Michael M., 35, Wolverine, Blacksmith

"It just hurts, I'm like, I wanted this really bad, and I really thought I was gonna like, make it..." *the otter sulks, visibly pissed at the whole situation* "I'm actually regretting this experience a little bit. They got me to wake up at the crack of dawn, slave around to clean those darn barracks... only for me to lose my spot against a brickhead. Ugh... peace out, I guess..." *gets up and leaves*

~#43 Michael L., 25, North American River Otter, EMT/Triathlete

"John and Diego, step forward," Ludwig calls, beckoning the two stoats to come closer, some in the group looking somewhat curious at what could happen. "I hear you've had a little spat yesterday, right?"

Without skipping a beat, the mexican stoat stepped forward. "I don't think the Alpha spot should go to someone that don't look at us as equal and just brings everyone down..." Diego says, not bothering in filtering his tone.

Most of the contestants tense up, expecting a rebuke by John. "Nah, that's fine," John says, shrugging his shoulders. "Go on, let him keep making a fool of himself."

"I just feel it's all about bein' a negative... pendejo. Sulk, sulk, you're stupid. But then the next second he's all condescending and proud, and he's just fake, either sad or grinning like an asshole. Look..." Diego pointed at his rival. "He just don't like us for shit we can't control. Not me, Omar, Chayne, William, J.J., no one. And he's the one starting shit!"

"No, you got your facts all wrong, buddy. I don't like YOU," John shoots back. "You've sought to make it personal ever since day one. Is it because my job is to whip guys like you back in line?" he insists. "Go on, tell that to Ludwig. How freakin' superior of you."

"I want this, and I know that to get it I need to be respectful in a way HE ain't!" Diego interjects, his breathing growing louder.

"Oh please, he's just raving," the jailer scoffs. "Michael, you think I'm disrespectful? Ken, you think I'm shitty? William? Omar? Arron?"

"No, you got a goal..." the wolverine replied, aloof. Other contestants shake their heads and give their support to the jailer, but the weasel doesn't.

"I think you can be a bit... condescending, instead of confident. We do feel the difference..." William speaks up against the stream, trying to keep things civil, but in a firm tone.

_"Of course no one wants to rock the boat this early... But this is not the American Demure Contest, my friend is at stake, and if many brag and speak their mind, why shouldn't I when it's right?"

~#20 William, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer_

"Well..." John shrugs. "This is what you're making a big fuss of. Two people against everyone else."

"Three...." a voice from the unselected group spoke up. "John, whatever happens, know you may have messed it up with the rest over the last few days. If you get on board, you got work to do..." Chayne, the blonde New Yorker, chimed in.

"Tell me again when you're on the bus back to Miami..." John shot back.

Ludwig puts his foot down before anyone else could escalate. "Alright, I heard enough!" he commands. "It's clear that this one will be heated whatever goes. And as long as you all adhere to the rules, it's fair game. Since the selection has been set solely on scores and what we've seen on training, I'll say that all into account, John's going to the Burrow."

The announcement takes a while to be processed by most in the room. As most people look around in shock, the jailer steps forward with a loud cheer, purposefully bumping Diego's shoulder before joining the group.

"Wow. This is vindication... I'm over the moon, really. Whatever goes, no one's gonna take that moment away from me. Adios amigo, the better one prevails..."

~#34 John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Whenever it's on you or them, put the work and focus," Ludwig reminds the white-furred stoat, still beaming as Diego leaves the scene without much to say, only giving William a knowing nod.

_"I went through all of this for what? Getting humiliated by someone who detests me for what I am?" *covers his face with paws, hiding tears* "But... if I know something, I know this ain't over, and people get what they deserve in the end. I'm coming back and wherever he lands, I will outdo."

~#36 Diego, 32, Stoat, Warehouse Worker_

"Alright, now that's out of the picture... gimme Kenneth and Azu," Ludwig says. The Nigerian clawless otter and the badger from Philly come forward, barely looking at each other as they stand in front of the host.

"You both are pretty similar, and you probably haven't realized yet. Young, working class, wanting to drop your jobs and turn your lives upside down..." the host says, both mustelids nodding knowingly. "Kenneth, you're a roofing contractor with a penchant for fitness. You came here to finance your dream of quitting your occupation and opening your own CrossFit business. Then we got Azu, a climbing arborist from Boston looking to provide a better future for his daughter and open a tree climbing school."

"It is heartbreaking that I'm about to crush the dream of one of you two," the host continues. "But only one can be the American Mustelid Alpha, and you all came in with unwavering motivations. I had to make a choice, and the contestant who proved he earned his spot in this competition is... Kenneth."

"WOO!" the badger's clap resounds all around, him jumping in elation as he joins the rest of the group. Arron is quick to congratulate the fellow badger.

"I'm so happy Kenneth is in... I know this ordeal will pit everyone against each other, but I feel we'll click in the long run. I got a hunch."

~#41 Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

The marten and the otter left standing silently looked at the group and their host. Without any need for the host to call them in, they both step forward together.

"I said do or die... *the marten fixes his hair, blown by the wind* Theo's great, but I feel he's here for the funsy of it. I want this, I earned this, and I'm not getting out of here with a pass."

~#05 Chayne, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

"Say what you want man, but being left for the last two? Everyone's eyes looking at you like whoa, and knowin' there is one ONE pass and TWO of us? If I don't make it, I'll be so pitted, dude..."

~#04 Theo, 22, Sea Otter, Lifeguard

"Looking at you two early on, I did think that you both really shouldn't be in the top 12..." the host says, both competitors looking quite shocked at the statement. "I couldn't tell if you were really here for the title or for the fun of it. But... I've looked at both of your performances, and you didn't just do well, but exceeded my expectations. I can say one of you did better than the other in the final test, and the other did it better in the first cut. But the main difference is the attitude. And he did make me say 'maybe he is serious about this and wants to do it HIS way', which I believe is the point of this show..." he says. "All considered, the last mustelid to join this lucky eleven over here..."

The otter had his arm around the marten's shoulder, looking expectantly at the results.

"...is Chayne." Ludwig looks at the last finalist. "Chayne, you're in!"

The marten covers his face with his paws in utter disbelief as the rest of the group cheers. "I'm sorry, I'm just... why you do that to me? Leavin' me last!" he laughs cathartically, barely avoiding to tear up. "Thank you so much!"

"Keep being you, and you will crush this competition, go get to the Burrow!" Ludwig directs the marten bartender to the other finalists, the marten immediately jumping to hug some of his competitors.

_"I'm crushed." *J.J. motions to Theo to come closer, sharing one last hug with his friend* "We started our journey in six, and now it's down to me. But we promised it to each other, an otter will stand over this bunch - and I'll do anything to make sure that's J.J. Bolkema."

~#15 J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager_

"I guess it's over, right? The dude goes back to his shore and his friends in the Old City." *smiles faintly* "But really, no regrets. I had the time of my life taking part in this competition, and I wish all the best to those who stay. Some amazing people in this, and I look forward to give everyone some swimming pointers when all is said and done." *laughs*

~#04 Theo, 22, Sea Otter, Lifeguard

"Well, top 12? The baddest musties in America?" Ludwig turns to the finalists. "How are we feelin'?" All twelve explode in a big cheer.

"The prizes are great, the stakes are high, and I'm here to show you that I can rise to the occasion. Bring it on!"

~#40 Omar, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter

"Fucking great, Ludwig!" Kenneth says, a huge grin lining his features. "Lead us to the Burrow already!"

"All in due time, Ken," the stoat nods. "Guys, this has been a hard and grueling process - but don't rest on your laurels. From tomorrow, besting each other will be your one and only thought. You'll be tested beyond your abilities, your strengths and your own very limits," he says. "Up to you to either step up to the challenge, or follow in the footsteps of those who left already."

_"I hardly can wait to begin. This is gonna become real personal real soon... many people here got their fangs bared, and I can say I'm willing to dish out a bite or two."

~#33 Crispin, 29, European Otter, Bouncer_

_"I feel I'm at the top of this pack, really. The competition is stiff, but I got it all figured already. I'm well-rounded enough that most of the challenges will naturally be up my alley." *smirks* "Time to start focusing on the top dogs and figure out how to take them down a notch."

~#08 Kenneth, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor_

"As the youngest competitor left, I know I'll get underestimated, and I'm like... this can be my one big ace down my sleeve." *the polecat jumps in one spot, giddy* "Okay okay, calm down... I MADE IT, WOO! LET'S DO THIS!"

~#10 Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

QUALIFIED TO THE TOP 12:

**_GREASY Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

WILLIAM, 34, Least Weasel, Personal Trainer

ANDREW, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

ARRON, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

CHAYNE, 28, Beech Marten, Bartender

CRISPIN, 29, European Otter, Bouncer

EDDIE, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

J.J., 25, Sea Otter, Construction Project Manager

JOHN, 36, Stoat, Jailer

KENNETH, 24, American Badger, Roofer/CrossFit Instructor

MICHAEL M., 35, Wolverine, Blacksmith

OMAR, 26, Marbled Polecat, Arabic Interpreter_** _ELIMINATED:

AKIVA, 22, Marine Otter, Business College Student

AKSEL, 31, Beech Marten, Natural Science Teacher

AZU, 27, African Clawless Otter, Tree Climber

DIEGO, 32, Stoat, Warehouse Worker

LLOYD, 33, American Marten, Police Officer_

MICHAEL L., 25, North American River Otter, EMT/Triathlete

_RAYMOND, 21, European Otter, Clerk

THEO, 22, Sea Otter, Lifeguard_

DID NOT COMPLETE THE COURSE:

CASEY, 45, Northern American River Otter, U.S. Army Sergeant

_JAMES SH., 23, American Badger, Pharmacy Technician

JEREMY, 33, Wolverine, Front Desk Hotel Agent

SEBASTIAN, 28, Tayra, Database Architect_