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March 11, 2020

Nassau, Bahamas

82° F

A white Boeing 737 painted in the Bahamas Air livery skids down an asphalt runway, gently rolling towards the airport's main hub. As soon as the hostess tells the passengers they can unfasten their seatbelts, the six remaining mustelids are quick to get up from their seats and recover their possessions.

"Today we woke up to a note saying we needed to pack for yet another road trip, and to make sure to not forget swimsuits and sunscreen..." *Arron is shown standing in the middle of the aisle, anxiously waiting to disembark* "Bahamas sounds like the plan if that plan is a luxury Caribbean vacation, but I know that big things are awaiting us. I'm here to keep fighting until I get Ludwig to say "the American Mustelid Alpha... is Arron Richardson"... can you imagine?" *chuckles*

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

"Least it ain't Buttfuck, Snow Valley this time..." John grunts, as he pushes his bags out, his white fur shining under the sun as they disembark.

Next to the stoat, Kenneth lets out a satisfied chuckle. "We're the top half of this Alpha Mustelid bunch, for sure we deserve some hot, sunny place!" he says, shielding his eyes from the sun with a furred paw.

"Plus hey, no snow means we can finally spot John in the surroundings," Eddie quips, to the snickering of the rest of the mustelids. "And if we get to take a stab at that ocean, I definitely won't complain..."

*the six competitors are shown hopping on the bus on their way to their hotel rooms* "It's dawning on me now. I had to beat a lot of furs experts in their area, had to go through the wringer, had to shake off the curse of the young thing... and now I am in the top six of this badass mustelid competition. In a way I can't believe I'm here, but on the other hand, if I am in this deep, I might as well pull this... out... Geez, that's what she said." *laugh*

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

A flamingo doorman escorts the group to three small bungalows next to the beach, their interiors pretty basic but still comfortable. Kenneth and Arron are quick to bunk up, as well as the Texan duo of Andrew and Greasy Z - leaving Eddie and John forced to share the last of the bedrooms.

"So, we gettin' takeout or someone wanna dare tryin' to cook up something without Will's help?" Z asks up.

Eddie shrugs, examining the facilities provided in the main kitchen connecting the three apartments. "I can whip up whatever, you know..." the giant otter answers, making a small inventory of the fridge's content. "Just don't expect it to be as good as William's dinners."

"Texas smoked brisket, three whole chickens, cornbread, mac and cheese and two gallons of sweet tea, make it snappy..." the hog badger snorts in amusement.

"I wonder like... you feel we could go fishing out there?" Eddie motions towards the ocean. "If you find me a pole spear, I could fill your plates for days straight..."

"Well, I don't wanna depend on you and luck on fishing, so we gotta get started soon enough..." Kenneth walks up to the fridge, starting to prep chicken and sides at his best capacity.

"'Ron, worst case scenario, you're on firefighting duty," Andrew quips, the honey badger earnestly laughing in response.

*the camera shows the stoat sitting on the common area, shooting an indiscreet leer at the mechanic* "Zakee used his bogus panic attacks and his own feelings as... a crutch, an excuse to skirt by and get himself out of the duel - and now he's all good and chipper, so someone explain how this makes any sense. I do think it is unfair that William went home because of him."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

The day passes by and, while most mustelids are hanging around the kitchen and getting ready to make some dinner, Z is absentmindedly walking down the beach on his own, an unusually sad expression marking the features as he strolls barefoot along the sandy shore.

"You can do this, Boss Hog..." the mechanic mutters to himself as he sits down on a beach chair, picking up a pawful of sand and letting it fall through his fingers. "No way you're letting that asshole get the best of ya..."

"All was going well last night, I mean, other than William leaving, but that was par for the course." *the hog badger scratches the side of his head with his bandaged paw* "But it seems Blake's hell bent on shaming me for freaking out at the eating challenge, and like... I haven't been faking shit, I'm still reeling from that actually. And I know he's doing it because he knows I'm on the track to win this, so he gotta go with the low blows."

~Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

"Hey..." a voice cuts the hog badger's concentration, him looking back and seeing Andrew walking down the beach to join him. "Ain't you gonna help with the dinner? I don't wanna let the badgers burn all our supplies..."

"I just wanna wait and like, have a minute for myself before yanno-who gets to jab me for the eleventeenth time today..." the hog badger hunches over, his right foot tracing circles in the smooth sand.

Andrew lets out a sigh. "You still thinking about it, aren't you?"

"Guy's been poking me and taunting me all the way here, and y'all don't want me to think about it?" Zakee retorts in a defensive tone. "I don't want to come across as a clown to the whole nation. I'm havin' fun, but this is serious business as well, you get me?"

"It's funny, cuz the only one who's clowning it up is him..." Andrew snickers. "Listen, I can't guarantee shit won't happen, but you're coming off on the right side of this argument, and everyone's thinking so..."

"Fair, fair..." the hog badger huffs, unconvinced.

Andrew looks up, taking note of the now discolored and faded streaks on his friend's usually meticulously kept bright hairdo. "Think it's time to get the color of the day back? Hawk's looking a bit... muddy," the polecat chuckles.

"Wasn't feeling it this morning, to be honest..." Zakee shrugs. "The whole hair deal, the 'tude, the rough-housing and all the shit... just not now. May be best to not give John more reasons to take the piss at me as is. Besides, it's gonna fade anyway, so..."

Andrew's ears flatten at the sight of his normally jolly friend being so out of character. "Well, but..."

"Ayo, Texas! Dinner's set!" Eddie yells from the bungalow to the two mustelids, with Z stepping up and robotically following the command, Andrew following suit.

"It kills me to see Z like this. This is not him, and this is not what got him this far." *sighs* "I wish I could do anything more than just wishing the asshole goes home."

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

The mustelids are sitting around the big table as Eddie brings in some grilled chicken breasts, with roasted potatoes and eggplants on the side. "I'm sorry it ain't much guys..." the giant otter shrugs. "This is what I usually whip up after hitting the weights. I know how to survive, but I ain't got any Michelin stars to my name..."

"This is gonna come across as shitty Eddie, but it's not, I swear," Andrew says, "But damn, these are the moments I wish William was here."

"No worries, I do too," Eddie quips, taking a bite from his own dish.

The honey badger looks at the mohawked mechanic, not saying much and barely taking any bites of his plate. "All good, Z?"

"Mhm," the hog badger nods, poking at the chicken with his fork. "Guess I'm still dealing with all the shit that went down this past round. That, plus Will not being with us anymore, I miss that guy..."

"Just shut up, eat your food, stick that grin on your face and get to work like everyone else. I don't wanna deal with this on repeat while we're on the beach..."

Andrew is left dumbfounded at the comment John just spewed, Zakee shrinking back in his seat, dissociating once more from the conversation.

"We're in the top six, in the beautiful Bahamas, and having a blast. Bitching and moping over eliminated people and irrelevant shit is the last thing I want to hear right now..." the stoat comments, to the shock of the mustelids in the table.

Andrew sets his utensils down the table abruptly, leering at John. "Well, what makes you think that your bitching is the thing we want to hear? You're the only one who matters, you're the only one going through anything worth a damn in this table, right?"

*blank stare at the camera* "Here's Pandora's Box... and here comes Andrew flying at it with a fucking crowbar..." *incredulous smiling as he gestures with his hands* "I best be wary, I don't want to get a knife thrown at me."

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

"Why do you get to speak the loudest of all of us, Mister-Never-Got-Captainship?" the polecat points out, his voice tone rising, pointing at the stoat with his finger. "Why do you think the competition actually revolves around you when it never has, not once not ever?"

"GO AT IT ANDREW! HANG HIS ASS!" *Eddie looks at the scene, trying not to crack up*

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

John was taken aback at first, but continues to dig in. "Andrew, I just said I-, I don't wanna hear shit I heard already."

Andrew scoffs. "Sure, and I'm like... John Blake, I don't wanna hear you blabbing shit you said already, so what are you gonna do now?"

The stoat opens his mouth, ready to retort, but then he abruptly gets up from his seat. "No... it's not worth it. You gonna keep licking that pig's ass until he sends you packing. I ain't gonna convince you otherwise, so I'm done talking with ya."

"Perfect, dude, thank you, what we've been asking for days now..." Andrew sarcastically replies.

"Imma say this... you talking a big game after winning a challenge or two, but the higher you prop yourself up, the worse you're going to fall. Eddie, thanks for the dinner..." John says before leaving the room, making his way towards his own bungalow.

The rest of the group sits in silence as the stoat leaves the room. "Oooooooooooooh, brother..." Arron exclaims, as the rest of the table comments and rouses Andrew up.

"That's one way to deal with shit, right?" Kenneth gleefully asks Andrew, slapping his arm in jest.

"It's all good now, boys..." Eddie raises his glass. "Kid ripped it like a band-aid!"

The hog badger gives a nod and a faint smile at the youngster, the whole table soon returning to eat and chill about as the atmosphere is diffused.

"It's never a good look to be put in place by someone a third of your age younger than you. Man..." *shakes his head* "Andrew has a point, and I feel like, if I gain any sort of power, I best be start puttin' the money where my maw is an start usin' it for good."

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

***

March 12, 2020

Nassau, Bahamas

82° F

The six mustelids walk down a pristine beach, palm trees gently swaying and crystal clear waters lapping the shore. A Bahamian flag is waving to the morning's balmy ocean breeze, Ludwig waiting underneath the flagpole with a middle-aged tortoise lady at his side, clad in a long, blue beach dress.

"Guys, welcome to the Bahamas," the stoat says, as the group stops in front of the pair. "First of all, congrats for reaching the top six. We all thank Ms Gracie Rodgers, Mayor of Nassau, for welcoming our show to this beautiful island," he adds, nodding towards the tortoise lady - the whole group politely clapping along as she takes a step forward, accepting the praise. "You've gone through thick and thin to reach this point in the game, so consider this trip our little gift to you as you get ready to step it a further notch, because... from this point on, there are no more team challenges."

"This is a bit of a shocker, but damn... it does play amazingly into my paws. After last night, I got a hunch most people will have sworn off the idea of teaming up with me, so for me to be able to take charge of my own destiny is definitely a blessing."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

Gracie steps up to speak. "We are ecstatic to receive all of you in our beautiful islands, as you continue with your journey. And well, Ludwig here has told me to relay you some... interesting news, aside his announcement," the tortoise nods. "Yesterday, six of you arrived in the Bahamas... but only four of you will move on to the great semifinal."

As the whole group's muzzles fall open in shock at the revelation, Ludwig reinforces the point. "Yes, you heard that right... two of you will be going home after this leg is over. So yeah, don't hold anything back from now on."

"I'm sorry what, what in the... what, Ludwig?" *camera shows a concerned otter* "So we're going to just ax two of these guys like nothing, what the hell...." *chuckles* "Good thing there's a twofer on board!" *camera focuses on Kenneth and Arron*

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"The game is now real and true. This is what will weed off the weak links, or even shock us and cut the real competition off. But this is the nature of the game, so I will tackle this head on."

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

The group is still shocked by the news, most mustelids looking around to spot each other's reactions. "What's that, guys? You getting the jitters now?" Ludwig jokes.

"Y'all can't drop news like that on us..." Andrew shakes his head.

"Well, that's because you don't know what's coming next," the stoat host chuckles. "Your Alpha journey started exactly twenty-four days ago. In this time, you've been staying at the Burrow, mostly disconnected from the outer world and the people you care for," he says, savoring the moment. "We thought that, at this stage in the game, reminding you of some of your motivations can help you with getting through the last stretch..."

The mustelids look around in shock, trying to realize what's about to happen, before a short, well-kept stoat woman comes in from behind the palms. As players turn towards Ludwig, a puzzled look on their face, John suddenly perks up and jumps forward. "LINDSAY!" he exclaims in shock, running towards the woman and pulling her in a close hug. "W-what you doing here, honey?" he whispers in her ear, struggling to hold back tears. Just then, the other five mustelids realize what exactly is going on, joining in a huge cheer.

*the stoat takes a breather* "The competition has taken such a toll on me, man... To see her once more, to finally have respite, it's just..." *shakes his head, trying to find the proper words* "...amazing to... finally see that piece of my happy place back."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Yeah, we brought in a taste of home for each of you six..." Ludwig chuckles, smiling as the two stoats share a kiss and turn towards him with a huge smile plastered on their muzzles. "John, as you see, here's your wife Lindsay..." he says. "What does it feel to reconnect after being locked away from her for three weeks straight?"

"I needed this..." John tears up. "After weeks of fighting and living with unknowns and being on aggressive mode 24/7, it's so great to finally-" the stoat pauses mid-sentence, looking at Lindsay. "Bruce! Wait, how's Bruce?"

"He's doing great!" Lindsay immediately reassures him. "Keeps asking how long until dad comes back, but other than that, he's taking to this just fine..."

"Give him a kiss from me, will ya?" John smiles, then turns towards Ludwig and Gracie. "Yeah, I was about to say... it's great to see the face of your best friend, someone you can trust with your life and beyond that. I know I can go all the way to the end now."

"Lindsay..." Ludwig addresses John's wife. "Now, you know why your husband's here, right? How do you think he furthers the Alpha brand in your everyday life?"

"He's my Superman..." Lindsay says, tightly hugging John's bicep. "No one I ever met has been this passionate and caring. Not only he's my steel giant, but also the best father I could have asked for my son." The whole group claps politely at the woman's words, only Z inhaling through gritted teeth a little as John and her share one last hug.

"Alright, Lindsay, you may sit down on the bench..." Ludwig motions to John's wife, her awkwardly stepping through the sand towards the seat. "Eddie..." he says then, motioning towards the giant otter. "Who do you think it could be?"

"Break it to me, Lud..." the Navy veteran jumps in his spot.

"Alright, let's bring in your brother, Barry!" the stoat exclaims, as a younger but equally buff lutrine comes running out of the woods, clad in a white polo and short khaki pants.

"Oh damn..." Eddie has barely time to utter as his brother tackles him into a full blown, fierce bro hug. "Easy, Barry, no need to bruise me, I gotta win this!" he jokes, as both otters take time to look at each other.

"You look..." the younger lutrine pauses, taking a long glance at his brother. "I dunno, but it feels like you're killing this, right?"

"Like everything else, bud!" Eddie chortles.

"The dynamic otter duo..." Ludwig smiles. "What's going through your heads?"

Barry rubs the back of his neck, looking at his brother before turning towards the stoat. "Well, I'm used to Eddie being the cream of the crop, I'm not surprised at all to hear he's doing fine for himself here," he says. "You know how Italian families are said to be tight-knit? Well, that's how me, him and the sister grew up like," he adds. "Even now that we live a few hours apart from each other, we seldom go a day or two without talking to each other... so yeah, him being away definitely brings up flashbacks from his time in the Navy. On every tour we were scared about him not coming back, but this big lug always finds a way to work a way out, and I know he will return home the champ of this."

"And I can tell, you're loud and proud Jersey otters, for that tiny little accent of yours, Barry..." Ludwig jokes, the otters laughing out loud.

"You got to know me, but Barry's more of the same..." Eddie chuckles. "We spent lots of time training together growing up, and even kept it up as much as we could after I enrolled. He's a big part of my own Alpha discovery, so it's absolutely fitting that he gets to be a part of this."

"Eddie has never been afraid of giving his all and going out there to prove himself. Even when we got news he was severely injured that one time, I knew deep inside he was gonna come back home winning." *the otter is shown taking a seat next to Lindsay* "I know he can do this."

~Barry, 28, Giant Otter, Eddie's Brother

Barry perks up. "Ayo, Ludwig! You better call me up for season two!" he exclaims, the whole group letting out a laugh at the younger lutrine's bravado.

"Arron, you ready to receive some love?" Gracie asks the honey badger, him perking up at the mention of his name.

Arron lowers his head, trying to not completely break down, knowing exactly who could be waiting for him. "It's her, right?" he asks, struggling to keep in the sobs.

"Let's wait and see... Dominique, come on up!" the host directs to the pathway the loved ones have walked in on the scene. A young honey badger girl wearing a burgundy beach dress, her own hair braided up in tight, stylish dreadlocks, walks out of her hiding spot to throw herself into Arron's loving hug.

The whole group watches intently as the firefighter buries his muzzle into Dominique's neck, tears now flowing uncontrollably at the sight of his young wife. "Love you, Dom..." he lovingly tells the girl, arms wrapping around her midsection as he pulls her into a deep kiss. "What's new, honey? How's Yvonne?"

"She's amazing, all's going swimmingly..." Dominique beams with joy.

Even Ludwig can't keep some emotion from showing. "Dominique, how's life while married to this strong, firefighting honey badger?"

"Well..." the girl tries to come up with words, struggling to look away from her husband. "We were each other's first partner, and we never drifted apart ever since," he says. "I know he's here to prove himself, but I'm sure he knows he's got nothing to prove to me and to our daughter."

"Every time he's on duty, I always grow worried given the... danger, his job brings. But he is the most honorable fur I have ever met and I always trust he will come back to see Yvonne's smiling face once again."

~Dominique, 26, Honey Badger, Arron's Wife

"Andrew... who do you think we got in store for ya?"

"I don't know, could be anyone..." the young polecat shakes his head, still not believing what was about to happen.

The stoat cracks a smile. "Well, can you help us welcome... your father, Jacob?"

"DAAAAAD!" Andrew screams, crouching on the ground, as an older polecat with a bit of a pot belly jogs out from behind the trees to his direction, a surprised look plastered on his muzzle.

"Andy... is this even happening?" Jacob says, walking down to hug his son - the young polecat towering over him by at least half a foot.

"I don't know, dad, you tell me!" Andrew exclaims, clearly excited to see his father. "I'm still in the running!"

The older polecat looks around at the rest of the group, all mustelids struggling to not crack a smile at his obvious surprise. His eyes travel over the line, taking in the sight of the five tough, burly guys standing a few feet behind his son. "This is a joke, right?" he says, nevertheless pulling Andrew in a hug before turning towards the host.

"Jacob, I think that, aside from happiness, I sense a bit of disbelief as well, right?" Ludwig asks.

"I legit don't know what to say, sir," Jacob shrugs. "When Andrew told me and Janet he'd gotten the call and was about to fly out to Florida to take part in this, I was like... what mess did you get yourself into? But like..." he says, still looking around in search of confirmation. "I dunno how, but he got himself in this mess, guns blazing indeed!"

"You ain't got the faintest idea, Mr McKnight..." Greasy Z chuckles at the older polecat's confusion. "Drew here has been kicking everybody's tail ever since day one!" Jacob looks at the chuckling hog badger, puzzled. "It's good, I speak Texan."

"Yanno, part of it is like, even if they chose to go out and tour the country following rock bands and getting in all sorts of debauchery, and then get in some crazy hullabaloo like this with these meatheads... they're still your kids. Not long ago it felt like he was my little cub, watching him take his first steps, helping him with his math homework, gearing him up to ask his crush to go to prom..."

"Dad, don't tell ALL the details..." Andrew visibly cringes. "You gonna destroy my hard-earned rep in a single swing..."

"Aight... my point is, he has become a man a long time ago, and this made me realize it. I'm proud of the man you've become, Andrew Daniel," he says, the whole group letting out a collective aww as the two polecats share one last hug.

"I'm like... I dunno what's going on, but feeling validated by your own dad, the one who always had a 'but' to ask me about anything I've done..." *chuckles nervously at his own words* "Well, that feels like a quarter million bucks right there... FEELS like, I still want the real ones!" *laughs*

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"Okay, so..." Ludwig takes back the reins, the tortoise lady next to him still visibly moved by Jacob's words. "Kenneth, are you ready?"

"I legit got no idea..." Kenneth whispers to Arron, the honey badger reminiscing of his friend's background.

"Well, let's meet your co-worker and longtime friend, Cassandra!" The whole group perks up as a shapely, muscular female badger comes forward, wearing a red tank top and denim shorts. Kenneth's mouth is left agape for a second, the roofer soon launching himself forward as the girl literally leaps up at him - arms and legs wrapping around his broad form in a full body hug.

"Co-worker?" Zakee snickers as the two badgers hug tightly, whispering to Andrew. "I wish I had co-workers that looked like that..."

Kenneth's paws come down to her backside to hold her close, before setting the girl down on the fine sand. "Whatcha doing here, Cassie?" he asks, smiling despite himself at being reacquainted with his friend.

"I couldn't miss the chance to look at your face again, Tarzan," she jests.

"Nor could I," Kenneth chuckles, pulling her close. "Been making you and the team proud here, you know?"

"It's clear you two are really close, what is the story?" Ludwig asks.

"I know y'all are thinking 'oh she's not a relative, she's just a co-worker', but listen..." Kenneth shifts around. "Not many know where I come from, but when you relocate to a new city, without much drive or knowledge of what you want to be in your life, when you're a husk of a badger, to have someone like Cassie come in your life and just brighten it all up, give you new direction, share a dream of a new workplace together, it's... just such a fucking bond for life, you know?"

"And we've got this mutual passion of training and CrossFit bringing us closer," Cassandra perks up. "I know what he can do and how hard he pushes himself to fulfill his athletic goals. I'm sure everyone here's badass, but to me, this guy's the best mustelid there is," she said, shooting Kenneth a rather smitten look.

John pays attention to the badger pair, then directs a knowing, sardonic look at Eddie. "Co-worker my ass..." the giant otter whispers to the stoat, careful not to be overheard.

"I wonder how much overtime Kenneth accounts for in his schedule..." *looks at camera, raising eyebrows*

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"I know Kenneth's here not just to fulfill his dream, but mine too. Opening a CrossFit box together and making fitness and high-level training our main occupation." *Cassandra is shown as he joins the other loved ones on the bench* "Being here to see him being great at what he does best is one hell of a blessing, you know?"

~Cassandra, 26, American Badger, Kenneth's Co-Worker

"And last but not least... " Ludwig says, directing his sights on Zakee. "What do we have in store for you, what says you?"

"I'll say, I doubt Ma or Pa can take time off the farm this time of the year..." the hog badger shrugs, rubbing his shoulder in expectation.

"Well, let's wait and see... let's bring your friend and co-worker as well, Tommy, come on over!"

"No fucking way..." The hog badger perks up, first time in what seemed like forever, running towards his friend - a stocky Tasmanian devil with bleached hair, prancing all the way as he walks down the beach incline. "TOMMY TORQUE STEVENS!" he exclaims in his signature loud voice as he tackles him in a rough hug, sending both careening to the ground.

"Greasy fuckin' Z, how has your porky ass been?" the tasmanian devil exclaims, picking himself up from the sand.

Zakee lets out an enormous grin. "Abso-fucking-lutely fantastic, Torque..." he laughs, extending a fist for the Tasmanian devil to bump. "You gotta see the place we stayin' back in Florida! If I win this thing, I got half a mind to rent that house for us and the boys..."

"I don't have to guess that you two are like two peas in a pod, do I?" Ludwig laughs at the boisterous display.

"Man, yes!" Zakee explodes in an excited laugh. "We've gone all the way through community college, lived together, gone on holiday together, worked together and a whole lotta other shit us two!"

"If he has been dyeing his hardass head, it was cuz I taught him..." Tommy grins before looking at Z. "You ran out of paint? You look muddy, hog."

"Eh, little time to retouch it before jumping on the plane yesterday..." Zakee retorts, his earlier griefs now mostly forgotten.

The Tasmanian devil takes a good look at his surroundings. "Whatever it is, I see you doin' good for yourself," he says, turning towards the other contestants with a chuckle. "What about you, folks? Is Z the best hog around or what!?"

"Y'all know it..." Andrew says, making sure his Texas side was showing.

"The stinkiest for sure," Eddie immediately retorts, addressing the newcomer with a faint smirk. "How do you even put up with this guy 24/7?"

"Cuz I do the same with him!" Zakee lets out a laugh, slinging an arm around Tommy's shoulders.

"Seeing that stupid fucking face on that deviled son of a bitch..." *shakes head, chuckling* "Is what I was literally needing. Everything that happened in the top seven challenges, the cut in my hand, the dinner, John overall, it just all disappeared. I'm feeling like myself again, and these guys better watch out now!"

~Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

"Okay, now that introductions are out of the way..." Ludwig chuckles, winking at the group of loved ones on the bench, "...it's time to get serious. You're about to play in an individual challenge..."

"What? Here and now?" Andrew asks, his features scrunched in obvious surprise.

"Yup, here and now," the stoat host confirms. "And the winner of said challenge will be the first semi finalist of American Mustelid Alpha."

"Now we are in the major leagues. With two going home, nothing is more important than getting this early win so I can shoot myself up to that semifinal. I don't know what is in store for the rest, and I don't plan to find out first-hand."

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"The game to play today is called Beach Batons, and is... well, let's say an evolution on a beach game many of you probably know. You'll start off by laying down in the sand, and on my go, you're gonna race towards an end zone to dig in and grab a baton. The catch is there's not enough batons for all of you six - whoever fails to pick one is eliminated from the competition, while the other five move to the next round. This goes on until there's just two of you left - where you're gonna face one last time, and who gets the last baton and brings it back to the start first wins the challenge."

"So in short, for those of you at home, Ludwig is gonna release six lions to pile on the last five scraps of meat remaining." *exhales* "I don't know if we are all going to come out unscathed from this."

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

"This sounds quite dangerous..." Jacob inches towards Lindsay with a nervous frown, as the six mustelid get ready for the first round of the challenge by disrobing to their board shorts and speedos.

"Oh, I almost forgot..." Ludwig adds with a smirk. "Aside from a two thousand dollar bonus, the first semi finalist will also get a hotel room upgrade... for two."

The whole group stops in their tracks, looking around as the realization dawns on them. "You mean..."

"The winner and his loved one will spend tonight and tomorrow at an exclusive beach resort here in Nassau," Gracie announces, all mustelids letting out an excited cheer at the news. "I'm talking about an island suite with all the comforts you may desire, room service catering to your eating requests and overall a luxury experience that'll get you recharged and ready for what's next to come."

"At this point in the competition, sharing a day with someone who's got your back 100% would be nothing but a godsend. This is a must win challenge, and I'm willing to do anything to make sure that upgrade's mine."

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

"This is the prize that makes it all worth it. I want to spend that honeymoon level night with Lindsay, and if these five fuckers are on my way, they're going to be sorry."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Alright, guys... this is how it'll work," Ludwig instructs the competitors. "You gonna lay in the sand, belly down, facing opposite from the batons..." he says, before pointing towards the intended direction. "There, between those two red flags, you get the end zone. Dig into the sand, grab a baton, come out of that zone with that stick in your paws, and you move to the next round."

As Gracie leaves the premises, bidding the contestants good luck, the six mustelids are shown loosening up their limbs - Andrew and Z playfully bumping fists before getting into position. The loved ones watch intently as Ludwig brings out his airhorn, ready to call out round one.

"You ready?" he asks, all six nodding in determination. "GO!"

The six immediately get up and try to set sights in one specific rod in their heads. Many dive to get the best grab at one, but Kenneth quickly nabs one that wasn't directly in front of his running path, swiftly rolling out of the end zone before anyone can pounce on him. Zakee and Andrew also prove lucky in their dives; not as smooth as Kenneth's own, but making their way to the return point easily enough.

"Kenneth's safe!" Ludwig exclaims, Cassie celebrating and waving her fists from the bench. "Z's good, Andrew's good!"

The story is quite the opposite for the other three, as Arron, John and Eddie have their minds set on the same rod, creating a ruckus in their clash. Willing to keep the lutrine out of contention, the honey badger briefly diverts his attention from the batons to wrestle him away from the target zone, managing to grab one and roll out.

"Arron's good, only John and Eddie left for the last one!" the host excitedly states, with the two physically different mustelids having their paws locked on the last remaining rod, thrashing so to make the other drop it.

"Oh my gosh..." Lindsay mutters, her paws in front of her muzzle, as his husband is locked in a tussle with the much bigger lutrine - sand flying all around as the two wrestle and tug at each other, their grip on the baton never faltering. "They gonna hurt each other if they keep this up!"

John tries to snatch the baton from an encroached Eddie. Just then, even if by coincidence, the stoat steps on the otter's rudder, eliciting a reaction and a drop of his guard. As Eddie roars in pain, the jailer gives a powerful tug of his paws, ripping the baton off the otter's and throwing himself out of the end zone with a dive before his opponent can get him back.

"And John's got it! Sorry Eddie, you're out..." the stoat host nods to the defeated lutrine, slamming the sand with his fist in anger before getting up and walking off the field. On the loved ones' bench, Barry lets out a sigh, giving an encouraging look at his brother. "It's all good, Ed..." he says as the Navy veteran walks past him, not bothering to brush off the sand clinging to his brownish fur.

The five remaining mustelids are back at the start, crouching down in the sand as they wait for Ludwig to sound off the start of the next round. "Hey 'Ron..." Kenneth whispers, trying to get the firefighter's attention. "Make a crook, aight?"

The host sounds off the start, the five mustelids sprinting where the four rods sat. The honey badger takes it as a chance to do a bold move, diving sideways instead of heading on to one rod, using his body to effectively block about three rods, nab one and roll back up. The players who were eyeing the same batons end up crashing into each other, soon getting up and jockeying around to reach another before their opponents. Arron makes his way to the starting point first, qualifying for the next leg.

"Let... the fuck... go..." Zakee growls, as he and Kenneth end up contending the same stick - the hog badger trying to force his rival in a painful position as he bends his paws all the way back, the roofer ending below him as they both roll about in the fine sand. John and Andrew are locked into a similar tussle, the last baton staying untouched and unnoticed by all four.

As Zakee turns his head, he notices the sole baton, immediately letting Kenneth go and swiping it before anyone gets the chance to react. "Zakee's good!"

John looks at the stunned Kenneth, quickly getting up to snatch his dropped baton and sprint back to safety. The badger shifts his eyes desperately, making a dive at Andrew, who was just getting his head clear to make his way with the last rod.

The polecat's eyes go wide as the muscled up badger charges and crashes on top of him with animalistic fury. His dad bites his tongue, nerves almost getting the best of him as he struggles to watch over his son getting overpowered by Kenneth.

"This is... painful to watch. They're going at each other like mad beasts, and I can't do anything about it other than believing in Andy to push through." *Andrew lets out a painful yell as Kenneth bends his arm, clinging to the baton with all he got left* "That badger better not hurt my son, otherwise things are gonna get ugly."

~Jacob, 49, European Polecat, Andrew's Father

With one last tug, Kenneth finally manages to wrestle the baton out of Andrew's paws, rolling on the side across the finish line, before calling for the host's attention. "Gotcha, Lud!" he says, spitting out some sand before playfully patting Andrew's side.

"Kenneth's good, so we are down to four! Sorry, Andrew..." Ludwig says to the young polecat as he stands up, his entire body covered in sand.

"Too bad..." Andrew shrugs. "Not gonna lie - I wanted that luxury hotel, but I'll get 'em all next time. Sorry, Pop..."

The host directs the reset for the remaining mustelids. "It's gonna be Z, Arron, John and Kenneth for round three. Three spots up for grabs... GO!"

Once more the competitors launch themselves towards the batons, Arron managing to outspeed them all as he dives for the one in the middle and rolls out of the end zone in a fluid motion. Zakee has a clear path towards the right one, while Kenneth and John dive together for the one on the left - both putting their paws on it at the same time, claws bared at each other in a bid to wrestle the rod off each other's. "Arron and Z pushed a ticket to the top three, while John and Kenneth are both battling for the last one again!"

Lindsay watches with bated breath as her husband is sitting in the sand, Kenneth holding him from behind, trying to snatch that last rod. "Get that shit!" Cassie yells, standing up from the bench to cheer on her friend. Hearing her call, the badger redoubles his effort as he attempts to twist the stoat's limbs to find an opening - a faint snapping sound as he gives a powerful tug to John's shoulder. The jailer immediately lets go of the baton, grunting in pain as Kenneth is quick to scoop it and roll out of the end zone.

"And Kenneth moves to the top three with Zakee and Arron!" Ludwig exclaims, then shifting his eyes at the stoat, still sitting on the ground, his arm unable to move from his raised position. "All right, John?"

"He snapped my fucking-ARGH!" the jailer growls in pain.

"Medical!" The host is quick to react, calling Dr. Paul to walk in on the scene. "Take a look at it, will ya?"

"I stuck to that badger and propped him up for a while, now I got a chance to score a point for myself, and he swoops in and yanks my shoulder out of its fucking socket?" *the stoat shoots a murderous look to Kenneth, sitting on the sand, as medical takes a look at his injured shoulder* "You're on my fucking list, Kenneth."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Normally my dad says that the fish dies by its mouth, but this is the first time I see the fish dying by his armpit." *snerks*

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"Looks like it's dislocated..." the canine doctor comments, Lindsay covering her eyes as her husband winces in obvious pain while his shoulder is getting handled.

"Is he gonna be fine?" the lady stoat asks, with heavy concern in her voice.

"Yes, it's not broken, so it should be okay once it's popped back into place..." the medical staff replies.

"Fucking Kenneth!" John looks up, his arm wrapped in towels and a log of support placed under his arm.

"So, we're going to realign his shoulder," Dr. Paul says, crouching over the injured stoat, grabbing his stiffened arm and readying to pull the limb down. "Hold on..."

"AAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGHHHHHH!"

Players and loved ones avert their eyes as the stoat grunts out his pain, his arm bone being guided back into the socket by the doctor. Cautiously, he tests its movement by rolling it back and forth, the whole group and even Ludwig clapping as he joins the eliminated contestants on the bench. Lindsay is quick to come to his side, giving him a kiss and gently rubbing his aching limb in a bid to soothe his pain.

"This is the hardest thing I had to see, but I know John is not taking this sitting down. He may be out, but I know deep inside he will claw his way in that semifinal."

~Lindsay, 34, Stoat, John's Wife

"Okay, three mustelids left and two rounds to go..." Ludwig recaps, as Arron, Kenneth and Z get down in the starting position. Lying prone in the sand, the firefighter tries to get the attention of his friend. "Hey dude..." he whispers, careful to not get overheard by Zakee. "We gettin' the pig or what?"

"If I can help it..." Kenneth replies, stretching his arms as he gets ready to prop himself up and run towards the batons. As he shoots the hog badger a glance, a wild idea starts to brew in his mind.

*looks pensive at the three competitors* "So we're getting a two in three chance one of those badgers is in the great semifinal. I'm sitting here PRAYING... that Greasy manages to knock off those assholes." *camera focuses on the crouching, determined hog badger*

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"GO!" the host signals.

Knowing Arron's more agile and quicker to get into a running stance, Kenneth immediately targets Zakee on his left, letting his friend a straight path to the baton on the right. Instead of diving straight to the other, he shoulders the hog badger like a football linebacker - both mustelids crashing into the end zone, the CrossFit instructor immediately getting over his opponent.

"Kenneth goes against Z and lets Arron just... take a freebie! And just like that, Arron's through!" Ludwig comments, somewhat in disbelief, as the honey badger nabs one of the batons and jogs to the starting point.

*camera shows Dominique celebrating and clapping, while Eddie and John look unimpressed* "They can say what they want, but in that one versus one head to head final, I much rather face Arron than Z." *Kenneth and Z are shown as they trade blows, neither letting the other get too close to the baton* "We know about each other so much, but I believe I got more tricks on my sleeve than honey has. Z's too unpredictable, and my priority above all is get my ass into that final four."

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

Back on the loved ones' bench, Tommy's voice is hoarse in his support of Z - the Tasmanian devil getting into it as his close friend gets a hold of Kenneth, tossing him on his back and starting to claw his way towards the rod.

"On the ribs, Kenneth!" Cassie yells, as the badger ends on top of Zakee, albeit locked and unable to move. The mechanic has both his muscular forearms wrapped around Kenneth's chest, the badger's head jammed under his opponent's arm. The roofer eventually thrashes for enough time to get free and hold Z to the ground, using him as a stepping stone to sprint towards that final baton; his hard curved run working so that the hog badger's charge barely misses him as he gets through to the final line.

"Kenneth, on his third scuffle in a row, is through! Z's out of the running now..." Ludwig says, the hog badger frustratedly clawing the sand in a swoop.

"A facce di cazzo..." *sighs inwardly* "I've warned these people about the badgers being the biggest threat, I said they were going to be aligned until the final, but did they listen to me? Like hell they fucking did not!"

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"Kenneth, Arron, here we are for the final round. Remember, guys, who wins this gets an entire day of relaxation at an exclusive resort with his loved one and a straight pass to the semifinals," Ludwig says. "To win this, you need to get across the line with the rod in your paws, understood?"

The two badgers bump fists as they hunker down in the sand, their bodies fully encrusted with sand and sweat after four straight rounds of diving and grappling.

"Ken is not afraid of any opponent, willing to show his fighting spirit and do whatever it takes. I'm definitely certain he will beat that honey badger in a snap. I've seen him dispose of burlier fiends at the Box, after all."

~Cassandra, 26, American Badger, Kenneth's Co-Worker

"Oh trust, child, Arron's gonna give everything he got when I'm on the line. He has the speed, reach and size advantage over Kenneth AND has gotten the first one in all rounds. Including this one. Honey, you gonna win this."

~Dominique, 26, Honey Badger, Arron's Wife

"Ready? GO!"

Both badgers get up at the same time and make a sprint towards the last baton, shoulders almost touching as they both try to outmuscle their opponent and throw each other off track. After darting a quick look to his opponent, Kenneth decides to anticipate him and take a long dive - propping his paws forward as he tumbles into the end zone like a wide receiver scoring a touchdown. He's quick to whisk the baton out of the sand and tear it away from Arron's grasp, the firefighter immediately going to wrestle down his opponent in order to keep him from making a move towards the start.

"Both badgers are in a stalemate!" Ludwig points out, both Dominique and Cassie loudly cheering for their loved ones. The honey badger has the size advantage, but his grip on Kenneth is faltering as the roofer pushes forward on all fours like a possessed badger - Arron struggling to reassess his hold on his opponent's midsection and being forced to grasp the hem of his swimsuit to avoid him escaping.

In a split second, Kenneth forces an opening from Arron's grasp, sprinting a few steps before the honey badger grabs his foot and sends him to the ground again, attempting to pull Kenneth closer enough to get a hold of the rod. Both badgers twist and turn in the sand, the whole crowd cheering them on as they battle it out. "And Arron has his paws on the baton!" the host yells, as it becomes clear both guys are contending for the stick and trying to wrestle it out of each other's hands - a cloud of sand almost hiding their motions as they rip into each other with little care for their safety.

"It kills me seeing Arron doing all of this, but there is a passion and a fire behind that that is so... I'm rooting for you, honey, let's bring it home."

~Dominique, 26, Honey Badger, Arron's Wife

"Get him on the stomach, Ken!" Cassie shouts, jumping on her spot at every tug Kenneth attempts. The roofer immediately complies, forcing his friend on his back and starting to pull on the rod they're both holding on to with powerful yanks of his biceps. The plan works as the honey badger's grip ends up faltering, Kenneth immediately jumping off his friend's body and making a move towards the start. With the strength of desperation, Arron latches to the badger's left thigh, holding to the limb for dear life as Kenneth pulls him forward for a couple feet before his paws give up.

"Kenneth's on the run!" Ludwig exclaims, the roofer crawling forward at a breakneck pace with the baton firm in his paws. "Can he bring it home?"

With one last push, Kenneth manages to roll past the line, immediately falling to his back as soon as he realizes he's managed to cross it and win the challenge. "AND KENNETH WINS THE CHALLENGE AND BECOMES OUR FIRST SEMIFINALIST!" the host yells, Cassandra immediately jumping out from the bench to go congratulate her friend - not caring in the least about ruining her dress as they share a hug in the sand. Meanwhile, Arron is lying in the middle of the field, a pained expression on his muzzle as he clutches his left arm.

The camera focuses on Dominique, the honey badger holding both paws in front of her mouth. "Oh crap..." she mutters. "Looks like he hurt himself or something..."

"I'm good, it's just... friction..." Arron looks down at his arm, much less fur on his elbow than before. Despite his stoic demeanor, the medical team is quick to rush by his side to check on the damage, soon cleaning up the superficial wound from the sand and bandaging the limb with a cotton gauze wrap. "It's all good, hun," the firefighter reassures his wife, who has immediately rushed to his side just as his arm is treated. "Don't worry about this, we'll have all the time we want as soon as I'm out of here."

"I had it all under control, but it only takes one slipup and everything collapses..." *sighs* "What hurts me the most is that I won't be able to spend time with Dominique, I wanted it so bad..." *Arron is shown giving a peck to his wife before she rejoins the other loved ones on the bench* "But to be fair, I'm here for the big prize first and foremost. I can take this loss if it means I'll win the one that counts the most for her and for our daughter."

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

"So, Kenneth, you and Cassandra are about to head out to your tropical paradise. But there is something more to this..." Ludwig says. "This is way too good of an offer to just let one of you enjoy it."

The rest of the group perk their ears, letting out a collective gasp. "Aw shit..." Kenneth mutters looking away.

"I want you to choose one of your opponents and his loved one to join you on this exclusive reward," the stoat host instructs the badger, noticing discomfort in the winner's eyes. "Who will it be?"

"Ludwig, you can cut the crap..." *shakes his head* "Choice is gonna be obvious." *camera focuses on Arron*

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"I came second to Ken in the final round, so even putting our friendship aside, I reckon it's only fair that I get to see Dominique. I trust that Kenneth will make the right decision with what's on his heart."

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

*John is shown looking towards Kenneth with pleading eyes* "This is the make or break. I stuck to this guy and helped him succeed over and over, and I think that I deserve to see my loved one more than everyone here, especially after he fucked my shoulder up. A wife isn't the same as a brother or a friend, and me and Lindsay will never get a second chance to experience that."

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

Kenneth's pause seems to be taking forever, hands on his hips as he looks on the five loved ones, then to his competitors. "Ludwig, this ain't gonna be personal to anyone not picked, but being an Alpha means to be willing to lend a paw to someone who we feel needs it, and boost fellow mustelids up when they've been down for no fault of their own..." the roofer says, the other mustelids expecting.

"What even's..." John mutters, somewhat dreading to see where Kenneth's spiel would end.

Kenneth resumes. "This guy has been unfairly beaten down in these last days and I am sure we all agree he needs this pick-me-up the most... Zakee, would you join us?"

The hog badger is left slack-jawed in shock, as Tommy's cheer could be heard through the whole island. The rest of the group is decidedly unimpressed, their faces between astonished and downright angry.

"Holy... shit..." Andrew gasps, looking over in disconcert as Zakee and Tommy step forward to join Kenneth and Cassandra next to the host.

Eddie blinks, taken aback at Kenneth's decision."...Course, why not?"

"Just saying..." John interrupts, unable to keep himself. "I'm gonna remember this, you know. Taking my wife from me so that the pig can get his... friend."

Kenneth shrugs, as Zakee and Tommy celebrate. "'Tis the game, John. He went through enough shit, I need to give him something." Besides John, Arron is visibly sulking, almost unable to believe the scene unfolding before his eyes.

"I'm... speechless, man. Me and Kenneth were close since the first bus ride, and when the time comes that he can make a choice between me and the rest, he goes back on that and picks one of our rivals? I know I shouldn't be envious of Z, and I totally get the motivation behind this pick, but it'll take a while to shake off this disappointment..." *sighs*

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

"And this is the moment Kenneth grew his pair. Glad to see he isn't all cliquey like a high school bitch and made an honest decision to help someone up. And for the rest, I wouldn't worry about your wives. You'll see them soon enough." *Andrew is shown content among the lineup*

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"Alright, guys... Sorry to be the spoilsport, but you gotta say goodbye to your loved ones. Barry, Dominique, Jacob, Lindsay, thank you for coming in here..." Ludwig says, as the mustelids who didn't get picked share a last hug with their loved ones. "While Kenneth, Zakee, Cassandra, Tommy... you ready to head out for your island paradise?"

"You bet!" Kenneth yells, the badger trailing sand everywhere before wrapping his arms around Cassie's waist - the girl not even flinching as the sand-covered mustelid pulls her close.

"This is gonna be better than spring break, Z..." Tommy casually says to the hog badger, his teeth flashing as the two friends share a rough bro-hug. "Aight, Mr. Host, shall we do this?"

"By all means," Ludwig smiles. "Kenneth, Z, we'll be seeing each other at the next individual challenge. For the time being, go and enjoy your reward!"

The party of four walks down the beach, openly celebrating their upcoming experience, as the rest of the competitors are forced to see their loved ones disappearing among the palm trees.

***

"Seriously, Ken, thank ya so much for picking us," the hog badger approaches the firefighter as they're led towards the connected beach suites that will host them for the night. "Know it was a tough decision, but it means a whole fucking lot that you went with me 'n Tommy."

Kenneth scoffs. "They're gonna be salty anyway, so they can eat shit," he says, practically bouncing on his feet, rife in expectation to see the suites. "Now, shall we enter?"

"Crack it open, Tarzan!" Tommy loudly proclaims.

The resort's valet hands off the keys for the massive beach house, all four walking in and marveling at the interiors - custom Bahamian art adorning the living room and adding an exotic flare to the place. The main window is facing the Atlantic Ocean, filling the common spaces with light and providing a breath-taking panorama. A welcome pack of refreshments is awaiting the guests on the main table, Zakee wasting no time in popping open the champagne bottle and pouring the liquid into the flûtes.

"To one hell of an Alpha experience!" the hog badger loudly proclaims, all four furs bringing the glasses together before knocking 'em back.

"This is the most insane thing I've ever lived through. Seeing Kenneth just win and punch himself a ticket to the semifinal just fills my heart with pride. I hope this little experience together fuels him to take it all the way."

~Cassandra, 26, American Badger, Kenneth's Co-Worker

"Cannonball!" Tommy yells, before throwing himself on one of the two king size beds of the room he shares with Zakee. The hog badger is quick to join his friend, both furs bouncing on the mattresses for a while before dropping on their backs, panting out their breath as they look up to the ceiling.

"So, Greasy..." the Tasmanian devil lets out a smirk, immediately starting to bombard his friend with questions. "How's the whole deal? You gettin' along with the rest of the group? Ya got a ride-or-die? Tell me all the shit..."

"Aw, there is shit alright..." Zakee oinks. "We stayin' at a huge-ass mansion in Central Florida, got a summer patio, a swimming pool, a fucking fullass gym... And that's where we're doing all the challenges, too," he says. "The people are killer, too. Mostly," he adds with a frown.

"Killer good or killer like you wish they off themselves?" the Tasmanian devil can't help but laugh out loud.

Z snorts. "Nah, they're alright. You saw the polecat? The young guy with star tats on his chest?" he asks, Tommy nodding along. "Well he's Andrew. Andy's my closest friend in here. Guy's from Austin, we got this whole 'Texas strong' thing going on and we're killing it outright..."

"Austin? Could be worse and say San Antonio, so, I'll give 'im a pass..." the marsupial chuckles. "You know what I mean, though. Who's the biggest competition here? You and him..." he says, pointing towards the door. "You got a deal or any kinda shit?"

"Eh, me and Kenneth are fine. I was surprised that he chose me to join him on the reward, but he must have his reasons and I ain't gonna complain!" Zakee exclaims before sighing. "I know ya wanna know who I got in a fight with-"

"Sumbitches didn't clap when I asked if you were the best..."

"-and to say it's a lie is... well lyin'," the hog badger sits up. "John Blake, short stoat jailer whom you saw with his wife. Well he's been making my life hell on Earth these last few days," he says, letting out a hint of a snarl. "I shrug it off because like hell I'm gonna let him ruin me this experience, but shit... some of the stuff he threw at me was fuckin' personal. And I mean deeply," he says. "The others I can live with, but him? Ugh... Tommy I... had a... you know..."

"Pork episode?" Tommy asks, already knowing the answer.

"Times thousand," Zakee scoffs. "One of the challenges had us eatin' pig throwaways, but raw. I had a fuckin' meltdown and John seized on it and said I was fuckin' faking it..."

The Tasmanian devil's jaw slightly drops. "That's fucked up," he says. "But like I'm here now, we're in a fuckin' tropical paradise, you rather enjoy it or keep dwelling on that shit?"

"Still... I do need to win a challenge soon, but right now, I'm focused on shit being good..." Z replies.

Tommy shoots a look at the mustelid, feeling unconvinced. "You fuckin' gonna ace this, Greasy..." he says. "Forget that asshole, dude. Sooner or later, y'all gonna get the chance to get back at 'im for all the shit he spewed on ya. And he can go back home cryin' to his hot wife..."

Zakee shoots a bewildered look at Tommy's last line. The devil scoffs. "Am I bullshittin'?"

"Fuck you, that mental image is already stuck in my brain," the hog badger oinks. "But I missed ya for that too..."

"Man, I'm not gonna pretend it's all fine 'n dandy, but Torque being here is gettin' me back into my groove. Spending time with him gonna recharge my batteries just fine, Blake bullshit or not. And like... I'm havin' a once-in-a-lifetime experience here and my best friend's in here too, if that doesn't help gettin' me out of that funk, nothing will!"

~Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

Eventually, Zakee and Tommy head out of their room, the mechanic walking towards the other master bedroom to call out Kenneth and Cassie for dinner. "Ken!" he calls out. "You two up to get some grub?"

"Signed, ordered and done for," Cassie replies, surprising the pair. "You were taking a long time in there, so we took the liberty to order food. Ken says Z would eat everything as is."

"It's good Z, not 'everything'..." Kenneth winks.

"You got a point though," Zakee pats the badger's shoulder. "I'm rather famished after today, and if you going ham on the room service, fine by me..."

"And I guessed we just had to order food for two Zakees!" the badger quips, pointing at Tommy.

The marsupial lets out a cackle, nodding along. "The Boss Hog is infamous for killin' all the AYCE buffets in Montgomery County, but I know I can hold my own..."

"Well, let's go see what we got, aight?" Cassie chuckles, leading the trio towards the main table.

"I'm surprised we getting along this well, but the evening's kicked off just fine and Z's pal is great fun." *the four are shown as they sit around the full table, laughing and joking with each other* "As much as I can't help wonder how the other four are faring back in the bungalows, I really believe I made the best choice for myself and my game."

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

***

"Even if I didn't win, it was good to get dad to see that I got deep into this spot..." Andrew says out loud, the remaining four lounging just outside of their own bungalow. The polecat stretches his limbs on the beach chair, looking in the distance as the sun sets into the ocean.

"The look on his face was pure shock," Arron nods, sitting next to the youngster. "Bet it felt good showing him your guns, right? And wait until he finds out about the rest..."

Eddie walks in the common area, wearing a pair of lycra shorts. "I don't know you three, but we got enough beer and food to at least make a good trip to the beach, and I'm done being cooped up for now."

"Imma follow your lead, Ed..." Andrew nods along, turning towards the honey badger as he gets up. "You?"

"Bet." Arron steps up, calling out through the bungalow's open window. "Ayo, John! We heading out, let's go!"

"Eddie has a point. Why mope on losing when the beach is like, RIGHT there? Least we can go out for a while." *the four mustelids are shown sitting down and lounging outside in the afternoon sun*

~Andrew, 22, European Polecat, Roadie

"I'll say the obvious first..." the lutrine, hazed by the alcohol, says out loud as he takes a swig of his beer bottle. "I'm shocked hog's up there and not you," Eddie points at Arron with his paw. "I mean, I know I woulda never gotten it even if I offered to blow him, but you two were tight as thieves ever since day one... What even?"

The honey badger puts his paw up defensively, but Andrew presses on. "I mean, the oily one ain't lying, 'Ron," he says. "If Z had won this and had not picked me, I wouldn't have taken it this well. Like, at this point it's all mustelids for themselves, we all know that... but I don't buy you were fine with saying your wife goodbye and seeing him get his friend."

Arron shrugs, waving his paw to speak up. "I know y'all would see this as a backstab and all, but think of what we went through... I think Ken wanted to help the one that was most mentally in a dark place. And as much I wanted to spend time with Dom' here, you gotta respect a mustelid who cares for others. I would have liked to help Z, and so do you."

"So you saying it was John's fault," Eddie quips, Arron and Andrew laughing out loudly.

"I don't see what's fucking funny," the jailer hisses behind his drink, his voice full of venom. "Your friend picked the pig and his dumbass friend instead of someone like me and you who have wives we need to see. And c'mon, he snapped my fuckin' shoulder..."

"And ya got it popped back in place," Andrew blissfully scoffs, not wanting to deal with the stoat. "I can't with y'all old guys, I'm swimmin' out..." the young polecat steps up, jogging to the sand and into the water.

"I was upset and feeling low like everyone else for not being picked or winning this shot to see my wife. But looking at what Kenneth did, I came along to realize, it takes guts to go against the grain for the good of someone who needs it. Zakee was really feeling at his worst, and he just offered the biggest retribution he could. That badger is a real one, and I got no doubts we are still together after this."

~Arron, 28, Honey Badger, Firefighter

The stoat, feeling less of an outcast because of Andrew leaving the spot, eventually inches closer to both Arron and Eddie, who were busy taking in the sun rays of the mild afternoon. "Man... sometimes you get good ideas, Eddie," the honey badger nods.

"Arron, none of this Mother Teresa bull, okay?" John speaks up, cracking open another bottle. "We need to ditch... we need to send one of these guys home, and both of you know who I'm talking about..."

"Heh, you'll struggle to get this one on board on any plan..." Eddie casually says, jokingly patting Arron's thigh. "He promised we'd be watching after each other and then went off against me and Crispin in the shooting challenge."

"Man... you serious?" the honey badger shoots back. "You know I got ears, right?"

The lutrine shrugs, putting both paws behind his shaven scalp. "We're all grown-ass men here, dude..." he says. "I'm just takin' responsibility for what I've done here, wouldn't ya know?"

"Shit's in the past, we need to get the pig out," the white mustelid sighs, cutting the two from their own argument. "We always see him puss out in the big challenges and then he just decimates you all before he gets his dues in the duel. I'm done with him taking the easy route and fucking y'all over. Like you Ed, twice."

"I admit I'm... pretty damn liquored." *chuckles* "So when little John starts soapboxing how much he hates Z, I'm like 'Uh-huh. Yeah. Sure. Bet'. I think he doesn't get the message that I wanna disconnect and enjoy my beach time, even if it's next to honey here."

~Eddie, 32, Giant Otter, Demolition Foreman

"You do remember two of us five are going out at once, right?" Eddie turns towards the stoat. "If us three are sticking together against Z, that leaves out his buddy by default, too," he says, pointing towards the shore where Andrew's letting himself get dunked by the big waves.

"And at this point... does it matter?" John asks.

"Might to you, since you've been propping him up like mad for winning a challenge or two..." the lutrine slurs. "I'm like... you're all treating Andy as the Burrow's golden kid, but... at this point I'm open to anything that doesn't involve my name..."

"Game's cuttin' it close. So who knows?" Arron shrugs. "Remember, whoever of you all is in the way, then I'm making it and not you."

The lutrine takes a long swig, giving the honey badger a look full of contempt. "Aight, you ain't willing to commit to shit. No surprises there."

"Talking to these guys just seems like talking to a brick wall, but I just hope they agree to kicking Zakee to the curb because... the Mustelid Alpha can't be a guy who looks and sounds like his parents met each other at a family reunion..." *snerks, holding back laughter with his paws on his face*

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

"Guys, let's be real for a moment. The Texas pair needs to be broken up now, and either you on board with doing this or they're gonna get us first," the stoat insists. "Are you willing to put your BS behind and see shit for what it is for once?"

Arron cocks his head, half-annoyed at the constant pleading, but realizing the point stated by the jailer. "I mean, if one of us wins the next challenge and not them..."

"Yep," John agrees. "If we get the chance to, we should commit to not go against each other," he says. "And you can sort out your business once we're all back to Apopka."

"You know, stoat... this can work," Eddie nods, emptying the remaining of his bottle's contents into his muzzle before setting it down to his feet. "But like... let's all commit to that. I'm not getting fooled again."

"Fine by me," the stoat huffs. "Whatcha wanna swear on? Gentlefur's word is enough to ya?"

"Aight, tell you what," Arron interrupts, abruptly turning towards Eddie. "I'm gonna swear on the Bible I'm not coming at you if I got the chance. How you gonna top that, rudder?"

"By saying I'm on board," the lutrine nods. "Facts are facts, the Texas gang is dangerous..."

The honey badger insists, unconvinced. "What guarantees me you're not framing us? You're not the kind to give up this easily."

"You want me to pinky swear, too? I thought we weren't in elementary..." Eddie scoffs. "But fine, if it makes you feel happier, I swear. Final four, guys..." he says.

"I'm getting the pig and the kiddo out and a security cushion at the same time? All I need is to win that second immunity and John Blake will be your new Mustelid Alpha. Can you picture it, America?" *behind Eddie's beach chair, the cameras capture the lutrine's index and middle fingers slowly crossing over*

~John, 36, Stoat, Jailer

A few miles away, Zakee is knocking down a glass of Chardonnay as the four are finishing up the remnants of a sumptuous rock lobster dinner. The entire group is bordering on tipsiness, the Texan pair growing rowdier by the minute as Kenneth and Cassie openly laugh at their antics.

"Y'all..." Tommy says with a long inflexion. "This is the best shit I've ever eaten in my darn life!"

Cassie taps Kenneth's arm. "The taz said it..." she cooes, propping herself up on her chair as the male badger returns her smile. "Once this is over, you two gotta pay us a visit at our gym in Philly, aight? I'll gladly put ya through the paces, especially Tommy there..." The group joins in a laugh as the marsupial shoots the female badger a mockingly angry glare.

"Yanno, I bet those guys are feeling shitty right now." Zakee comments, reaching out for a leftover claw. "All them wives and family..."

Kenneth shrugs. "They'll play that card for sure, but some roots go deeper than just being born in the same tree or having a ring. If they think our bonds are less than theirs, they can shove a coconut up where it hurts." His paw joins Cassie's on top of the table for a quick while. "And at the end of the day, I'm happy to be spending tonight with you three. That's all it matters."

Tommy taps Zakee's arm, pointing with his muzzle at the giggling badger pair.

*looks at the camera, shaking his head in bewilderment* "And what's goin' on right here in front of muh drink? Y'all two serious?"

~Tommy, 30, Tasmanian Devil, Greasy Z's Friend

Taking his friend's cue, the hog badger is the first to excuse himself. "Aight, I dunno you guys, but I still have a challenge to ace if I'm to join Kenny in the big semi..." he says, standing up and motioning Tommy to follow his lead. "We'll see each other tomorrow at brekkies, alright?"

"Bet, man. Have a good night," Kenneth nods, as the Texan pair make their way into their own room. As soon as the two friends are out of the picture, Cassie turns to Kenneth, a glint in her eye.

"They're good company, but better like this, Tarzan..." she chuckles, wrapping an arm around Kenneth's barrel-like chest.

The badger's features distend in a smile. "Just in case, I was totally fine with you doing this in front of the other guys. I almost laughed when you were introduced as 'Ken's co-worker', y'know..."

"Oh shut up, it ain't a lie!" Cassie exclaims, letting out a hearty laugh before messing the badger's long locks. "I didn't wanna ruin your game by making all of your opponents jealous... though it was hard to contain myself when you won, champ."

"I was hell bent in winning this thing. This upgrade is amazing, and with ya, priceless!" Kenneth exclaims, Cassie growing less attentive of his conversation. "The semifinal... eh, I was going to get in one way or another-" Just then, she lunges her muzzle into the male's, playfully biting his lips before turning it into a passionate smooch. Kenneth is left agape, only able to look at her in surprise.

"You're such a hardhead sometimes, Ken..." she scoffs, her fingers digging in Kenneth's hair, faintly scratching behind his neck with her blunt claws. He lets out a small growl, dishing a soft peck to her nose before letting his lips join hers once more.

*opens his mouth, processing a thought* "I admit this... let's call it perk, has totally slipped my mind when I won. I mean, I knew it was a chance with Arron and John, but it totally passed me by... until now." *raises his eyebrows, breathing through his gritted fangs*

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

*shrugs, giggling* "I mean, we can't let such a luxurious experience go to waste, right?"

~Cassandra, 26, American Badger, Kenneth's Co-Worker

The pair remains on the patio for a while, enjoying the sight of the starry night over the Atlantic, before Cassie gets out of the male's lap with an impatient motion. "So, our next American Mustie Alpha... shall we get to our room now?"

"By all means," Kenneth nods along, following Cassie's lead inside the house before turning towards the camera operator. "Leave us alone for a while, 'kay?" he says, waiting for the fur's unseen nod before closing the bedroom door behind himself.

"This road trip couldn't start on a better note. A huge win against the whole bunch, a massive reward and a night with one of my closest friends." *lets out a broad smile* "Long as I keep like this the big W is at my paws' reach, and I can't wait to see how the other fellas will scramble in order to keep up with me. Which they won't." *chuckles*

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

"Tom, do ya think...?" Zakee tries to ask, but gets cut by the marsupial's paw.

"I know," the devil's tail flicks in amusement.

The hog badger plops on his bed, looking sideways at his friend. "Whatcha mean, you know?"

"C'mon..." Tommy pokes his friend. "I might be half drunk and so are they, but I know they're up to something funny..."

Z oinks, shrugging Tommy off. "I'm telling ya Tommy, ya need to get your mind out of that gutter. If there's any mind left in there yann-"

The devil shushes the hog badger, his marsupial ears propping up and turning a bright red. "Z, you hear that?" Surreptitiously, he draws closer to the wall, motioning to his friend to come closer. Instantly, Tommy explodes in a big fit of laughter as he slaps Z's arm.

"Is that 'em..." the mechanic blurts, eyes popping open. "Aw I can't, dude! This is too fucking much..."

"AAAAAAH!" Tommy yells, jumping back on his bed. "They are! You gotta tell this to the other guys!"

Zakee inches closer to the wall, the telltale sounds coming from the bedroom nearby confirming his suspicions. "Co-worker my ass..." he says as he turns towards the marsupial, the hint of a grin tracing his features. "They were waitin' for us to get off the picture so they could get busy."

"I knew from the minute I saw them!" Tommy exclaims proudly, his ears getting more flustered by the minute.

"Heh, do you blame him?" the hog badger asks. "Twenty days without getting any and that piece of tail surprises you in fuckin' Bahamas? I'd have been way less hush-hush about that whole deal than ol' Kenny was..."

"Aw y'all..." *the hog badger draws a long pause, looking at the camera in a knowing way* "Now where's their employee handbook?"

~Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic

"Man, Torque..." Zakee snorts before turning to the marsupial, looking at his friend from head to paws. "If you're my co-worker, why don't you look like that?" he asks, jokingly disappointed. "I should talk to the boss to hire me one like her and ditch your ass."

"Fuck you!" Tommy retorts, his bellowing laughter filling the room. "I took a week of work holidays to come down here and that's how your ungrateful pig ass thanks me. Bro..."

The hog badger curls on his side. "Blame my dick for doing all the talkin', dude," he shoots back in jest. "I just hope Ken's quick to finish, I can't get any shuteye if they keep jammin' that bed against the fucking wall."

"Leave 'em be, they're just mammals..." Tommy comments, letting the quip hang in the air, before snorting.

Zakee's features tighten in a confused frown. "They just what?"

"You know, they've been watching too much Discovery Channel or some shit," Tommy shrugs sheepishly.

"Discovery wh-" the hog badger stops in his track for a second, before realizing what the Tasmanian devil is hinting at. Without notice, he chucks a pillow at his friend, striking him straight in the muzzle. "You dumbass!" he says, flopping on his back before starting to loudly sing the refrain to the late 90s dance-pop track. "You and me baby, ain't nothin' but mammals, so let's do it like they do on the Discovery Channel..."

*sighs* "Bet it's Kenneth's strategy to sleep-deprive me in time for the challenges and get me packing. I see ya, badger." *snorts amusedly*

~Greasy Z, 29, Hog Badger, Automobile Mechanic