Well, it's been a long time coming, but "Roomies 2: Country Living" is finally ready to start! Twelve characters living in a mansion for forty two days. Will they be able to co-exist? We will soon see. Currently, new episodes are scheduled to air every Tuesday, beginning with the official series premiere in two weeks. That's right... Episode 1 airs Tuesday, April 23rd! This is the Casting Special. Twenty candidates are chosen to be finalists, but only twelve will make the show. Read on and try to figure out who the lucky twelve are. If you wish to be informed of when new episodes are posted, please e-mail me at jgg121@yahoo.com and join the mailing list! As customary with all of my fanfics, I ask that you leave a review. Leave a comment, suggestion, or some constructive criticism. I don't do flames. Flame me and you will be dealt with appropriately. If you don't like this fanfic, tell me why you don't and how can I make it better. Or you can simply just stop reading right now and safe yourself the hassle. The rating listed is correct. "Roomies 2: Country Living" will be rated PG-13. But don't worry... that will only apply to a few episodes here and there. Most of the episodes will contain PG material. If an episode requires a PG-13 rating, a notice will be posted to indicate that. For example, the Casting Special is rated PG. Okay, done with all of the required stuff. Now for some personal comments... This took a lot more time to finish than I thought. And finding accurate character profiles wasn't easy in some cases. All information provided is based on the dub versions of the characters, including ages [which I know differ between versions in some cases]. Also, those of you who know me as a writer know that character descriptions are still a major weakness of mine. I still totally suck at writing them. Maybe one day I can actually write a decent one. Anyone, all character information is based off of what I know and what I have gathered from websites. If you think I made an error somewhere, e-mail me or leave a review detailing it, and I'll correct it posthaste if need be. And now... the wait is over! Let "Roomies 2: Country Living" begin! Disclaimer: I do not own any of the anime characters that appear in this fanfic, nor do I have the money to buy any of them. I also do not own any reality show elements that may have been adapted for this series. Please do not sue me, as I am a college student and I am already strapped for cash as it is. * * * * * * * * * * Mystery Voice # 1: In less than a month from now, twelve complete strangers will converge here. Mystery Voice # 2: Behind us stands a newly built mansion, nestled in the prefecture of Okayama, Japan. Mystery Voice # 1: These twelve will fight through challenges, the harsh elements, and each other. Mystery Voice # 2: All in hope of being the last one standing at the end. Mystery Voice # 1: There are tons of prizes to win. Some are more unbelievable than last season’s. Mystery Voice # 2: Plus, there’s up to one million dollars at stake for one lucky person. Mystery Voice # 1: My name is TK Takashi. Mystery Voice # 2: And my name is Kari Kamiya. TK and Kari: And we’re your hosts for the casting special of “Roomies 2: Country Living.” *************** Roomies 2: Country Living Story Written by Freedom Fighter *************** Episode 0 - The Casting Special TK: Today, we’re going to introduce you to the twenty finalists. These finalists were picked out a field that runs into the hundreds! And see what happens as the field is narrowed down to the twelve that move into this mansion next month. Kari: We’ll also give you a first look at the new mansion, including some new features that TK and I didn’t have at our mansions last season. TK: And, there have been some rule changes since the first season ended. We’ll get you updated on everything you need to know. Kari: And all of this will be brought to you by TK and myself, as well as a few of our fellow housemates from last season. This ought to be fun! Davis: But first, we need to settle some things! TK and Kari: Davis? Davis comes in stage left, dragging along two bags full of mail, and lots of it. Kari: Davis, this isn’t the time to bring up our love triangle problem. TK: Besides, our show ended in America months ago. No one cares about us anymore. Davis: On the contrary, TK! These sacks are all fan mail for us! TK: For us? Davis: Yeah! (points to the one on his right) This one is full of people wanting Kari to choose TK. TK: Well, what can I say? You’ve got to give the fans what they want. Kari: (serious) Calm down, lover boy. Davis: (points to the one on his left) And this one here is full of people wanting Kari to choose me! Kari: And the point of all of this is? Davis: (shrugs his shoulders) Beats me. But just like you Kari, it seems there are plenty of people out there who can’t decide between TK and I! TK: (sarcastically) Thanks for the useful update, Davis. Davis: Are you being sarcastic? I hate it when you respond like that! It makes me look dumb! TK: I thought you were already dumb. Davis: Hey! TK and Davis start arguing in the background as Kari shakes her head and moves away from them so that she is now alone in front of the camera. Kari: Those two will never learn. So before we get swamped with yet another five hundred letters asking me why I haven’t chosen between those two numbskulls over there… TK and Davis: (off-screen) Hey! We’re not numbskulls! Kari: Let’s head to Goldenrod City, where the first group of finalists are revealed! *** [Begin video feed - Goldenrod City Radio Tower] A red haired woman in her twenties appears on the screen. She is wearing a green long sleeve sweater and a black skirt. She is also sporting a pair of glasses. She puts her best smile on and raises a microphone close to her mouth as she begins to speak. Goldenrod Correspondent: Welcome to the Goldenrod City Radio Tower! My name is Mary, Goldenrod’s number one DJ for two and a half years running! I’m outside here because literally hundreds of characters from the monster anime shows, including numerous representatives from the show I’m from, Pokémon, have come out here to tryout for the reality series known as Roomies. The camera gets a shot of the long line of people forming outside the Radio Tower. The line extends several blocks down the street. DJ Mary: This is so exciting! The only event in history that has ever drawn more people than this is the annual Pokémon League championships! The response here is unprecedented! You should’ve seen the excitement on the faces of some of these entrants when I got here this morning. [Interviews from earlier in the day] The camera is on a purple haired young girl dressed in a pink kimono. Two petal throwers stand on either side of her. This girl happens to be Jeanette Fisher, a Pokémon trainer from Crimson City. DJ Mary: So, what made you come down here and tryout? Jeanette: Well, I heard that the first one drew a lot of publicity for some of Pokémon’s better-known minor characters, so I decided to come here and give it my best shot. Later on, the camera is now focused on a young black haired boy who wears a red short sleeve shirt and a pair of dark gray shorts. He also has a small wristwatch on, which seems to have a badge of some sort inserted in the middle of it. The boy’s identity is Ikki Tenryou of Medabots. DJ Mary: Excited about being here today? Ikki: Of course! Medabots doesn’t get enough press just because the animation is poor and Nelvana did our dub. But at least our show didn’t end up as bad as that other one. You know, the one with the girl in those overdone costumes? At least the characters in our show don’t stick out like sore thumbs! [Back to the video feed] DJ Mary: But after interviewing over one hundred applicants on several topics, the audition crew selected seven to fly to Tokyo for the final interview. They are, in no particular order... [Rolling audition videos] A tall, gray haired teenager bikes to school, with Toya and Sakura following him on a bike and rollerblades, respectively. Toya and Sakura, of course, were competitors from last season. DJ Mary: Julian Star, a 17 year old boy from “Cardcaptors.” Julian: (waving hello) Hi! I'm Julian! I want to be on Roomies just because Tori and Sakura did so well last time around and yet they didn't win. Hopefully, I'll be selected and I'll win the million dollars to split among us. Tori: Almost anybody can do better than the squirt. Sakura: Hey! I finished as the runner-up! A brown haired girl with a pony tail tied up with a green ribbon walks in West Shinjuku park. A small white Digimon, Calumon, walks alongside her while munching on a piece of bread. DJ Mary: Jeri Katou, a 13 year old girl from “Digimon Tamers.” Jeri: My name's Jeri, and whatever you do, you have just got to pick me for Roomies! I make friends very easily. I have many talents, too. I can play the Digimon card game, help my dad by working at the family restaurant, and I'm a puppeteer in training! Jeri's Puppet: (appearing on Jeri's right hand all of a sudden) See? I'm the puppeteer and she's the puppet! Jeri: (giggles) Silly puppet. I'm the puppeteer. (turning back towards the camera) Anyway, please pick me! You know you want to! I'm so cute! Calumon: It's true, it's true! Vote for Jeri, she's the one! A blond haired teenager dressed in a green school uniform pulls out a deck of Yu-Gi-Oh playing cards as he prepares to duel an opponent. His friends, Yugi, Tristan, and Tea are on the sidelines, cheering him on. DJ Mary: Joey Wheeler, a 15 year old boy from “Yu-Gi-Oh!” Joey: Just in case something goes wrong at the Duelist Tournament on my show, I'm using this as a back-up. I really need the money to help fund the operation my sweet sister Serenity needs to stay alive. You've got to help a guy out here! I can be the most compelling and intriguing personality you've ever had in a reality series! So pick me for the show! A red haired teenager dressed in a Team Rocket uniform appears on the screen, reciting her motto. Her companions, James, Meowth and Wobbuffet, also fill in their respective parts. DJ Mary: Jessie, an 18 year old female Team Rocket member from “Pokémon: Johto League Champions.” Jessie: You saw what Team Rocket did to your pathetic little show last season in Pallet Town! And we'll do it again in Okayama if I'm not picked to be in the show! Besides, how could you resist a face as pretty as mine? James: Or mine? Jessie: (hitting James on the head) Hey! This is my audition video! Meowth: Meowth, dat's right! Wobbuffet: Wobbuffet! A brown haired boy on rollerskates zooms by, jumps into the air, and lands perfectly on the ground. DJ Mary: Genki, a 12 year old boy from “Monster Rancher.” Genki: (pointing at himself) I'm Genki, and I'm begging the selection committee to choose me! We need the funding to get the third season over to the U.S. and Canada! There are tons of "Monster Rancher" fans who want to see what's going on with us. Holly: (walking on screen) Did we finally get the Phoenix to help us defeat Moo? Genki: The Western Hemisphere's never going to find out unless I get on the show and win. So come on! Do it! You know you can't resist my hyperactive persona! There'll never be a dull moment with me around! A black haired boy wearing a red shirt, blue shorts, and a watch on his left wrist appears on the screen, with his fellow Medabot, Metabee. This happens to be Ikki once again. DJ Mary: Ikki Tenryou, a 12 year old boy from "Medabots." Ikki: If I'm chosen to be on Roomies, I promise to represent the cast members of my show like they should be. Hard working junior high kids who spend their time battling their Medabots rather than doing homework. Metabee: It's a fact. Ikki does it all the time. Ikki: And if I don't get in, then you'll miss out on a great opportunity to promote my show like the thousand dollar toy franchise it is! Metabee: Basically, don't pick us, and we kick your butt! Ikki: Metabee! A very short black haired boy with a bandage in the shape of a small X on his forehead appears on top of a rock. Posing and stating a motto of sorts, he shares the stage with his teammate and girlfriend, Rockna. DJ Mary: And last but not least, Mondo Ooya, an 13 year old boy from “Mon Colle Knights.” Mondo: We spend every week going to Mon World... Rockna: Trying to find one of the six Monster Items... Mondo: But that gets boring after awhile... Rockna: So Mondo is trying out for your show... Mondo: So if you want a character from the craziest show on TV... Rockna: Then pick Mondo, 'cause he's my man! Mondo and Rockna: Ta da! And that poem was written by us, so don't try to steal it! [End audition videos] DJ Mary: Well, TK and Kari, it looks like we’re sending seven your way! Hopefully, you’ll know what to do with them when they get to Tokyo! [End video feed] *** TK: Interesting bunch we’ve got there. But why so many monster shows? Kari: Well, you know how it is. You can never have too much of a good thing. Which is why there is too much of a good thing. And all of the bad shows are going off the air. TK: At least ours isn’t. Kari: True, but it’s technically a new show anyway. After all, would someone like Jeri survive in our universe? TK: Well, she’s almost like you, so I think she would. As long as she had some type of special power, like your ability to control the Numemon. Kari: You call that a power? I thought my power was being able to produce light from darkness. TK: Yeah, that too. But honestly, if you were as weak as Jeri, you wouldn’t survive a day in the Digiworld. Kari: (sarcastically) Thanks for the vote of confidence, TK. Remind me to get stranded in the Digiworld one day without a D-3 to get back, okay? TK: But seriously, you wouldn’t! Kari: (a little peeved) Let’s just get on with it. TK: Right. Speaking of runner-ups, the host of Roomies 2 was actually the guy who finished second to me. Kari: You mean... TK: That's right! It's Tenchi Masaki, and he's here to give you a sneak peek at the new mansion the twelve lucky anime superstars will be staying for a month and a half. Tenchi? *** [Begin video feed - Okayama Prefecture, Japan] Tenchi is standing outside the new mansion. The exterior resembles the ancient yet simplistic Japanese style that includes a sliding door entrance and a small garden full of beautiful flowers, including roses and cherry blossoms. Tenchi: Today, I'm going to show you inside the house. I'll show you a few of the rooms, but not all of them! You'll have to catch the first episode to see the whole house. Let's go. Tenchi starts by entering through the front sliding door and immediately heading up the spiral staircase to a room on the second floor that happens to be filled with books. Tenchi: A small study area here. (points to the corner where there's a desk with nothing on it) There's going to be one computer over there for anyone who might need it while reading some of the books in here. Tenchi reaches into one of the shelves and pulls out a book conveniently titled "How to Manage Having Six Girlfriends for Dummies." Tenchi: Gee, I could've used this when the girls first moved in. Moving on, Tenchi exits the room and heads next door to one of the bedrooms. This one happens to have green wallpaper decorating the walls. The room is empty at the moment, though. Tenchi: This is going to be one of the six bedrooms. There are four up here on the second floor, and two more downstairs. Each of them will have two beds, two dresser drawers, and two desks with lamps on them. But that's not all! Tenchi walks over to one of the closets and opens it... to reveal a whole lot of empty space. Tenchi: See this? The closets here are so huge that you can fit a hippo in here. Or a woman's entire wardrobe. I think the latter would be more appropriate in this case. But I wonder what the guys are going to do with all that empty space. Tenchi heads downstairs, all the way to the basement, where we find a recreation room. Inside the room, there's a ping-pong table, a pool table, two computers, a twenty-inch TV, and a Playstation 2 with an assortment of games. Tenchi: This is the recreation room. Basically, the cast members can come here to have some fun and relax, especially after they get through some of the grueling challenges I'm going to put them through. On the other half of the basement, we find an area that's roped off and marked with a sign labeled 'Off Limits.' Tenchi: (points to the door beyond the rope) There's something special behind that door over there, but we're not telling you what's there. Bet you probably already know, right? It's a place I'm very familiar with. Well, at least the girls are. Tenchi then leads the cameraman to the kitchen, which is decorated neatly with white ceramic tile on the floor and on the walls. Tenchi: And of course, there's the kitchen? Any cook could feel right at home in this cozy environment. Like Sasami, for example. But she's not going to be here, so hopefully someone is chosen that can actually cook food. Because if there isn't, the group will be in for a very long and tiring six weeks. Tenchi then heads back outside, with the cameraman in tow. Tenchi: Did I spoil you enough? There's plenty of stuff that I skipped over on purpose! If you want the full tour, don't miss the first episode of the series! And I'll see you there too! Until then, back to TK and Kari. [End video feed] *** Kari: I can't believe they have so much stuff! TK: Well, they were able to fund it. They were taking care of both of the mansions we were staying at last time at the same time. Kari: I just hope they appreciate what's been given to them. TK: They will. Trust me, they will. Kari: Anyway, coming up next... we'll reveal seven more of the finalists for you. TK: And what has changed since the first edition? We'll tell you what new rules the roomies will have to know this year if they want to survive. *************** TK: Welcome back, folks! Enjoy the break? Kari: I think the crowd's getting antsy, so let's keeping this casting special going! TK: Our next seven finalists are from shows that use flying spaceships! Kari: I thought UFOs didn't exist. TK: In these anime, they do! For more, we head to the planet of Sentinel III! *** [Begin video feed - Sentinel III] A red haired man in his twenties stands outside of the shop/house that is owned by him and his partner, Starwind and Hawking Enterprises. The man is wearing a sleeveless black shirt and matching colored pants, both which show off the well defined muscles that spread all over his body. There is also a tattoo of a black star on his left arm, just below his shoulder. Sentinel III Correspondent: Hey, it's about time you got here! I'm Gene Starwind of "Outlaw Star." You won't believe what happened today when I found out that there were hundreds of characters out here trying to get on this little show of yours. I thought they were all here because they needed the help of Starwind and Hawking Enterprises, where our motto is, "We fix anything... from tractors to relationships!" Switch to another camera, where the crowd begins to dwindle as the tryouts here start to wrap-up. Gene: Speaking of fixing relationships... (developing a lecherous smile on his face) I wonder if I can start one with one of the fine ladies out here. (gets serious once again) Ahem... like these little firecrackers... [Interviews from earlier in the day] A woman with blue hair in her late twenties appears, wearing a green dress. This happens to be Bulma Briefs of "Dragonball Z." Gene: So, what makes you think you can make this show? Bulma: Well, every reality show needs a genius whose looks are on par with her intelligence. And I happen to fit that profile! Gene: I can live with that. But between me and you, let's say we put those looks of yours to better use... Bulma pulls a mallet out of nowhere and starts pounding Gene with it before he can draw his blaster to destroy it. After recovering from that beating, Gene meets up with a fifteen year old red haired girl wearing a pink Earth Federation uniform, complete with a long sleeve vest and a matching skirt, as well as a pair of brown boots that rise up halfway between her knees and her ankles. From "Mobile Suit Gundam," the young and beautiful Fraw Bow. Gene: And why are you here, miss? Trying out as well? Fraw: Actually, I'm hear to cheer on Amuro. He's a good friend of mine that's trying out for the show. Gene: Boyfriend? Fraw: (blushes) Of course not! Gene: (believing her) Well then, how about I take you out on a date when this is all over? Fraw: (faking as if she hears something) Oh! It sounds like someone's hurt. I'd better go and help. Gene: (looking around as Fraw sneaks away) Where? I didn't hear anybody scream. (notices that she is gone) Damn it! [Back to the video feed] Gene: As you can see, I didn't fare too well. But who needs those two when these hotties were chosen to make the trip to present-day Tokyo for the final interview. And they are... [Rolling audition videos] A woman with red hair walks towards the camera, with the first Gundam kneeling motionless behind her. She is wearing a yellow polo sweater over a white short sleeve shirt and blue jeans. Gene: Let's start off with another beauty from the Gundam universe... twenty-one year old Christina McKenzie of "Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket." Talk about a girl who knows how to work a joystick! Christina: Being a test pilot for the famous first Gundam was the most thrilling adventure of my life! But being on a reality show is even better! It would be nice to meet other anime characters who don't have war on their minds twenty-four seven, whether they are trying to attain peace or not. So pick me for the show! You'll be glad to see what my life is like when I'm not working! A woman with blue hair held in place by a hairband appears next. She's wearing a small bright yellow tank top and similarly colored biker shorts... leaving very little to the imagination. She happens to also be smoking a cigarette inside what appears to be a ship of some sort. The ship, of course, is the Cowboy Bebop. Gene: Oh yeah... this woman I like! This is twenty three year old Faye Valentine of "Cowboy Bebop." She's a bounty hunter, just like me. Coincidence? I think not! Faye: I'm perfect for this and you know it! Who in their right mind wouldn't want me on their show? I can turn a few things my way and then easily win the grand prize! No one's going to stop me from winning one million dollars. (beginning to think) Gee... I wonder how much that translates to in this day and age... Spike: No one's going to put you on that stupid show! Faye: I happen to be from the early 21st Century, so let me do this! It's a good chance to learn what life was like back then! Jet: You're just in it for the money. Faye: I am not! Next up is a teal haired woman dressed in a Galaxy Police Officer uniform. Along with the red headband that she wears around her head, her uniform consists of a blue sleeveless vest, an orange tie, a navy blue long sleeve shirt, and a pair of gray pants. Gene: I'm not exactly on good terms with law enforcement types, but this woman can arrest me anytime! She's twenty three year old Kiyone Makibi, a police officer from "Tenchi Universe." Mihoshi: Kiyone, Kiyone! Kiyone: Will you shut up, Mihoshi? I'm trying to audition for a reality series here! Mihoshi: You are? I'll try out too! Come on, it'll be fun! Think of everything we can do together if we're both there! Kiyone: Mihoshi, no one wants to listen to you whine and blurt out useless sayings everyday! Mihoshi: I don't do that! Kiyone: And you're clumsy! Mihoshi: No I'm not... (stumbles) whoops! As Mihoshi falls, she takes the camera down and out with it. The next woman has her black hair tied up in a bun. She is wearing a long white long sleeve shirt under a yellow sleeveless dress, with a purple scarf tied around her neck. Gene: This next woman kind of reminds of Aisha... only not as busty or as rude. Which, in reference to Aisha, is a good thing. This is thirty five year old Chi-Chi Sonn, a housewife from "Dragonball Z." Chi-Chi: Put me on the show! You know you need a responsible adult who will take charge and keep the young kids from getting too close, if you know what I mean. I also know some martial arts, so if someone needs straightening out... allow me to do the job! But most of all, I need to be on the show because my family will go broke if I don't! Gohan: I thought you said that we'd be broke after the last World Martial Arts Tournament. Chi-Chi: Gohan, don't you see I'm trying to evoke some pity from the producers! Gohan: Sorry, mom! If you're that desperate to get on the show, they'll put you on! Chi-Chi: That's what I thought. They'll put me on and I know it! Last but not least is a black haired beauty familiar to Gene himself. She wears a white buttoned long sleeve shirt, a blue tie, and a black skirt with black pantyhose under it (similar to something you might see on a female lawyer or any other female in a major business profession). But she also wears a blue poncho over all of that. Gene: And last but not least, we can't forget this little cupcake from my own show, "Outlaw Star." She's an android, but who can tell? She acts just as normal as any other woman. Meet seventeen year old Melfina, the navigator of the Outlaw Star! Melfina: Hello! I really hope I get onto this show! I know it's going to be hard to interest you since I'm always quiet, but I can cook and can be very helpful if any electronical problems arise. How could the rest of the roomies live without someone like me? Jim: I don't think they can. Melfina, you'll be perfect for this! Aisha: Yeah! You'll knock 'em dead and win the prize money for us all! Suzuka: I agree. Melfina would be a perfect choice. [End audition videos] Gene: Well, five lovely ladies heading your way. Jim: (appears next to Gene) Jim, what about the two guys that made it! Gene: What about them? Jim: You have to mention them too! Gene: (sighs) Fine, okay? [Rolling audition videos] A young boy with afro-like brown hair puts on his helmet as he is about to be launched from White Base while inside the RX-78 Gundam mobile suit. He is wearing a blue Earth Federation uniform long sleeve shirt, white pants, and a pair of tan boots of similar length to the aforementioned Fraw Bow, his friend, neighbor, and companion from Side 7. Gene: The first male candidate is a mobile suit pilot. I don't even know why he got chosen as a finalist... his show aired over twenty years ago! I don't care if he was the pilot of the first Gundam ever made. From "Mobile Suit Gundam," this is fifteen year old Amuro Ray. Amuro: I would have never had expected to be an integral part of the One Year War, yet by piloting the first ever Gundam, I led the Earth Federation to victory over Zeon! But it seems the American public isn't as interested in how the whole Gundam saga started! Well, get me on the show and I'll give the audience a history lesson on how Gundam came to be! Fraw: Honestly... without us, there wouldn't be a Gundam franchise still alive and kicking today! A young man with dark brown hair tied up in a ponytail hanging down his back smiles as he admires his Gundam, the Deathscythe, in the background. He's wearing a dark blue mechanic's outfit, but this guy can't only fix Gundams, he can pilot one too! Gene: The other's a real hit with the ladies. He dubs himself the God of Death. This is the pilot of the Gundam Deathscythe, sixteen year old Duo Maxwell, of "Gundam Wing." Duo: Now that peace is abundant in the year After Colony 197, things have gotten kinda boring around here. Not that I want another war, mind you, but maybe this whole reality show business may be the thing I need to feel alive again. Hilde: Come on, Duo! Salvaging parts isn't interesting enough for you? Duo: (shrugs his shoulders) I guess, but it doesn't make as much money as it does if I win this reality show. Hilde: It's a one-in-twelve chance! And you have to be away for at least six weeks! Duo: Since when have I backed away from a challenge before? Besides, we'll see each other again after this is all over. Hilde: Of course. What was I thinking? You'll be back. Duo: Of course I will. The God of Death will walk in, make friends with everyone, and walk away with all of that money. [End audition videos] Gene: There! Happy? Jim: Yes. Gene: Fine then. Back to you guys in Tokyo! [End video feed] *** Kari: Wait a minute... what was this rated again? TK: I think it was PG. Or was it PG-13? No wait, that's what they said the series MIGHT be. Kari: Why did we have to include teenagers and adults in this? You know what this'll lead to. TK: Of course. That's what the fans want. As much as they want to see you and me... Kari: (puts her hand in TK's face) Let's just leave it at that, okay? TK: (dropping the subject) Let's just be happy that Gene's not in the show. At least, be happy for the women. Kari: Thank God for that. TK: What's next, by the way? Kari: The rules segment. And we've got another former Roomie, Princess Sasami, to do that segment. TK: I feel sorry for Sasami. I thought she deserved to at least be in the Final Four. Kari: Well, I would've voted for her if I hadn't already committed voting to my list. TK: Who did you vote for anyway? Kari: Let's see... Sakura, Madison, Misty... and Giselle. TK: (in surprise) You voted for Giselle? That stuck-up little brat everyone hated? Kari: Hey! I thought that she had redeemed herself by the end. I don't think people gave her much of a chance. TK: You got that right. If I remember right, she only got one vote... yours. Kari: So people didn't think she should have been forgiven for all the things she did. So what? TK: (smiles) You voted for her out of pity, didn't you? Kari: I didn't not! Giselle deserved my vote and I stand by my decision! TK: I still say you should've voted for Sasami instead. Kari: (sighs) Whatever. You're just lucky that Giselle's not here to slap that silly grin off your face. TK: What silly grin? Kari: The one that's on your face! You like her, don't you? TK: What can I say? She's hot! Kari: And I thought that you were the perfect guy for me. I guess not. I'm leaving! Kari stomps off just as TK snaps out of his daydream about Giselle. TK: Kari, wait! (snaps his fingers) Nuts! (turns to the camera) Look, just watch Sasami for a few minutes while I try to make things up with Kari, okay? As TK runs off, he mumbles something about how Giselle is even screwing him over... *** [Begin video feed - Okayama Prefecture, Japan] Sasami, dressed in her everyday kimono, is standing in front of the long flights of steps leading up to the Masaki shrine. Sasami: Hello everyone! I'm Sasami, as if all of you remember. Today, I'm going over the rules that the twelve members of the new mansion here in Okayama will have to abide by if they want to stay in the house and win the million dollars. The slides that you are about to see will provide a visual guide to these rules as I explain them. So let's begin! A picture of a calendar appears on the screen with the month of January showing. All of a sudden, it starts moving as the calendar flips through each of the months of the year. Sasami: The first one is the most obvious... the contestants have to stay in the mansion for six weeks, or forty two days. During this time, they will not only have to compete in numerous challenges, but they will also have to learn how to live comfortably with each other. The next picture has two houses in it. A chibi version of TK comes out of the house on the left, and a chibi version of Kari comes out of the house on the right. A third house then appears. TK and Kari walk towards it and enter it. Chibi versions of Professor Oak and Miss McKenzie suddenly appear. They too approach the house in the center and enter it. Sasami: Number two... unlike last season, where there were two mansions separated by sex, this time around, there's only one. Altogether, there will be twelve contestants: six male and six female. Also, there are no age restrictions anymore. The next picture has Ash and Gary pushing and shoving each other. A pair of pincers then appears, grabs Gary by the collar, and flings him out of the picture. Ash then celebrates by flashing his victory sign. Sasami: Three... also unlike last season, this time around more than one representative from an anime series is not allowed. Only one character per anime. It's just more fair that way. In the next slide, a running shoe, a television, and Sakura and Madison appear on the screen. The shoe represents the physical challenges, the television represents the prize challenges, and Sakura and Madison represent the roommate challenges. Sasami: Rule number four involves the types of challenges. This year, there are three types. The first are physical challenges. These split up the residents into two teams of six in order to complete a task that involves a lot of strength, quick thinking, and endurance. Next are the prize challenges. The residents may be split up in any assortment of ways, but the teams who finish with the best result become eligible to win a prize, which will be drawn at the end of their stay. The last type are roommate challenges, which are new this year. Roommate challenges are just as you think... two roommates make up a team. They compete against other pairs in varying competitions to add extra money to their pot. The fifth slide shows a big bag of money. Ryoko and Ayeka then show up and start throwing the bills all over the place. Sasami: The fifth role deals with how much money the residents can win. If you're a member of the winning team in a physical challenge, you add $100,000 to your personal jackpot. You could win up to $50,000 more depending on where you place in a roommate challenge, as the money decreases in increments of $10,000 the worse your finish is. There's also money available for confessionals. $5,000 per day for every camera confessional a resident does, up to a maximum of 20. Altogether, the most one resident could win is $1,000,000. Sound simple enough? In the sixth slide, Vegeta and Goku appear on the screen. Vegeta then begins to beat the living daylights out of Goku. But then... yes, the pincers are back! It grabs Vegeta and throws him off the screen. The pincers disappear and then return with Gohan in hand. The pincers drop Gohan onto the ground. Gohan then goes and helps his father get up as the pincers leave once again. Sasami: Number six involves fighting. If any resident intentionally attempts to hurt another resident, whether the attack was successful or not, that resident will be kicked out and be replaced, depending on how much time is left in the game. The resident that is kicked out loses all eligible money and prizes. That is given to the replacement, once again dependent on the amount of time still remaining. The next slide features Genki of "Monster Rancher" reaching into a hat full of slips of paper with different names on it. He pulls one out and begins to celebrate... because his name is on it! Holly appears and hands Genki a miniature Playstation 2. Sasami: The seventh rule involves distribution of prizes. On the forty second day, the residents are gathered to witness the prize drawings. The number of people that qualify for a prize determines how many will actually win it. This year, for every three that are eligible, one will win the prize. The prize could be anything... from a pair of rollerblades to a new spaceship. Slide number eight features the cast of "Sailor Moon". Serena, Amy, Raye, Lita, Mina, Amara, Michelle, Trista, Andrew, Molly, Melvin, and Rini are sitting on some chairs while Darien lectures to them. Afterwards, each of them gets a ballot. They each check four names and then put their ballot into a box. As we see Amy's ballot, her name is crossed off of it on hers. Darien then tabulates and announces the results. Serena, Rini, Raye, and Andrew celebrate as the others hang their heads in defeat. Sasami: Voting for the Final Four; rule number eight! On the forty first night, the residents will gather and vote for who they think are the four residents who should have a chance to win the money they've earned during their stay. The four that get the most votes get that opportunity. Also, note that a resident cannot vote for himself or herself. In the ninth slide, the "Digimon Tamers" cast appears, sitting in a similar fashion as the Sailor Moon cast was in the last slide. This time, the group consists of Takato, Rika, Henry, Jeri, Kazu, Kenta, Suzie, Ryo, Yamaki, Talley, Riley, and Shibumi, with Calumon, of all people, standing up front. Takato, Rika, Henry, and Jeri then get up, one at a time, to speak to the others. The foursome then sits down in seats next to Calumon as the others go to vote. Ryo raises his ballot up, which has Takato, Rika, Henry, and Jeri's names on it. He votes for one (we don't see whom) and puts it in the box. Again, as in the last slide, Calumon tabulates the votes after everyone has gone, and announces the winner. This time, it's Takato, who starts dancing around happily as Calumon gives him a sack of money. Sasami: Rule nine is the final vote. On the forty second day, the members of the Final Four must convince the other residents to vote for them to win the money they are eligible. Then, the non-Final Four members vote for which of the four finalists they want to win. The votes are tabulated and the one with the most votes wins his or her jackpot. The tenth and final slide features Bit, Brad, and Leena from "Zoids." Leena seems to be happy, since she is holding a rather decent sized pile of $20 bills, while Bit is crying because he doesn't have any money left to spend. Leena then proceeds to board an airplane, handing some money to the attendant, who is Brad. Bit looks disappointed, but his mood changes when Brad motions for him to get on the plane. Brad then pulls some money out of his pocket and pays for Bit's ticket. Bit celebrates as he boards the plane himself. Sasami: Tenth and final rule. Residents are expected to bring their own spending money if they want to buy something. The exceptions are when it is required to pay to do something, such as buy groceries, pay the electric bill, or in the case of this slide, get onto an airplane to fly to a challenge. The slide show ends as Sasami's smiling face reappears on the screen. Sasami: That's all easy to remember, right? I hope so. I spent a lot of time putting that slide show together! TK and Kari, I'm sending it back to you! [End video feed] *** TK: Well, Kari's all steamed with me right now. Hopefully she'll calm down in a few minutes. Coming up next, the identities of the remaining six finalists are revealed! Then, watch what happens as they are asked one eternal question. Will they come up with the right answer to make the show? Twenty go in... only twelve will come out happy! *************** Kari: Can you believe the nerve of that guy? And he thinks that I don't remember how close he was to being head over heels for Chelsea! (notices that the camera is on) Why don't you people tell me when you're filming? (rolls her eyes) Let's just reveal the last group of finalists, okay? [Begin video feed - Chicago's Wrigley Field] Two beautiful young woman appear on the screen, with the famous baseball stadium in the background. The first is rather tall and buxom. This black haired woman is wearing a lime green short sleeve shirt, with an unzipped black leather jacket over it, and a short brown skirt, with black pantyhose plainly visible under it. The second, much shorter blonde haired one, sports a brown leather jacket instead of a black one, along with a white tank top with red stripes going across her body and a black skirt. Both women seem to be completely competent and on guard... but one of them is not happy with her current predicament. Chicago Correspondent # 1: To think I'm reduced to doing this! I'm not being paid to be a reporter! Why can't you get Becky to do this? Chicago Correspondent # 2: Because Becky wasn't available, Rally! Besides, we should be thankful we're get paid to do this at all. Rally: Seventy-five dollars apiece? You call that getting paid, Minnie-May? Minnie-May: At least we'll have some fun doing this! Rally: (crossing her arms over her chest) At least you will. Minnie-May: Anyway, we've had our own share of anime characters who've come through here trying out for this reality show. Rally: A lot of them aren't worth it, though. We managed to find a few gems among all of the trash. Minnie-May: They come from all over the world, as well as different places in space and time. Rally: Altogether, we selected six prime individuals to send to Tokyo for the final interviews. Minnie-May: They may not have as many exciting adventures as we do, but they each have their own outstanding qualities that will appeal to viewers of all ages! Rally: You're starting to sound like an infomercial, May. Minnie-May: Sorry about that. Let's introduce them! [Rolling audition videos] A brown haired girl wearing what resembles a white tennis blouse with a green collar and a green skirt appears in the first video. With the streets of Chicago in the background, this finalist is a 'friend' of the correspondents. Minnie-May: Let's start off with one of our own... sixteen year old Misty Brown, from "Gunsmith Cats!" Rally: What? That little brat is a finalist and I'm not? Who's in charge of this anyway? Misty: (waves hello) Hi! I'm Misty and I'm just perfect for your series! (beginning to plead) I promise not to steal anything! Chicago's has taught me a lot of lessons in life and not stealing things is one of them. Rally: Wait a minute! When did Misty learn that? Minnie-May: Rally, hush! Give her a chance! Rally: (under her breath) I'll give her a chance... to meet my foot as I kick her little... The next person to appear is a young blue haired girl, who is wearing a 'sailor' type school uniform. She's carrying her brown knapsack with her as she heads to school. Minnie-May: (coughs) Moving on, our next finalists is one of the famous Sailor Scouts of Tokyo. She's Sailor Mercury, to be exact. Introducing fifteen year old Amy Anderson of "Sailor Moon." Amy: I'm really thrilled to try out for this series. I know I seem shy, but I'm very friendly and I get to know people rather easily. I'm also very smart. I always get the top score in my class. Lita: They all know you're a genius, Amy! Tell them something that'll get your attention. Mina: For example, tell them that you're available and looking for a guy your age to date! Amy: (blushes) Guys, this is a reality series, not a blind date game show I'm applying for! Mina: Who says you can't mix both? Lita: Seriously. Go for it! Amy: Oh my... now I've lost my place! Rally: (rolls her eyes) Oh brother... In the next video, we see a man with black hair, sporting a black tuxedo. In fact, everything he's wearing, with the exception of the white oxford long sleeve shirt inside, is black, from head to toe. Rally: Now this guy's not half bad. As long as he's not packing any heat. Minnie-May: This is twenty five year old Roger Smith of "Big O." He's a negotiator. Rally: (unimpressed) Only a lousy negotiator? Never mind then. Roger: I am Roger Smith. I live in a time everyone thinks Paradigm City is the last remaining place in the world that humans can live safely in. As much as I enjoy my job as a negotiator, keeping the peace here, I feel that I would get to know other people and truly know what our world is or should be like in our day and age. Rally and Minnie-May: (confused) Huh? What the heck did he just say? Next up is a young brown haired man who wears glasses. This individual is wearing a lavender colored long sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a light green short sleeve shirt under that, and some blue jeans. He seems to be busy mopping one of the hallway floors inside the Hinata Inn. Rally: Now what's up with this guy? Minnie-May: He's the manager of a girls' dorm in Tokyo. Rally: That little geek is in charge of a girls' dorm? How did he manage that? Minnie-May: His grandmother was the previous manager. She gave him the position. Rally: Lucky stiff. And his name is Keitaro Urashima, a twenty year old from "Love Hina." Let's hear what he has to say. Keitaro: Being the manager of an all girls' dorm isn't all its cracked up to be. I always seem to be getting myself into a position where I accidentally spot one of the girls in the bath. It's not that I want to on purpose... it just happens. But even I'm not safe here... I'll still get kicked out if I don't pass my entrance exam into Tokyo University this time around. Hopefully being away from the girls for awhile, I can actually get a chance to study! A young girl with reddish-brown hair tied up into two long ponytails with bow ties appears on the screen, inside a television studio of some sort. She is wearing an orange sweater and a pair of blue shorts (which are barely noticeable, since the sweater is very long). Rally: I feel sorry for the women that have to live with him if he makes the show. Keitaro: This next girl may keep him in line if he gets a bit out of line, though. Rally: That's right. This is eleven year old Sana Kurata of "Kodomo no Omocha." But she's no rookie to the small screen. In fact, she's quite the accomplished TV star. Sana: I'm a young TV superstar who's looking to expand her horizons and make it to the big time. There are so many dedicated fans who can't watch the shows I'm in! All of a sudden, Sana hears a lot of noise coming from another room behind her. Sana: What's going on? What do you mean they're taping without me? Hold on! (talking really fast) Okay, you need me on so that Kodomo no Omocha gets to the United States so my fans there can see me in all my glory! Okay, gotta go now! Last but not least is a boy with blond, spiky hair. He is wearing a green, purple, and gray sweatsuit, with an unzipped red jacket over that, as well as some brown gloves. Minnie-May: (sweatdrops) She's a bit hyper, isn't she? Rally: Yeah... anyway, our last finalist is this guy. This is sixteen year old Bit Cloud, a pilot from "Zoids." Bit: This is my kind of game! All I have to do is live with eleven total strangers for six weeks, win a whole lot of challenges, and become friends will them! Then I'll battle my way to victory using Liger Zero! Leena: Bit... you're auditioning to get onto a reality show, not into an all-star Zoids battle tournament! Brad: I have to admit though, it'll be worth a lot of he can win! Leena: (getting angry) And you'd better win Bit! Or else! Bit: Calm down! This'll be a piece of cake. [End audition videos] Rally: And he's a bit cocky, to say the least. He won't get into the show. Minnie-May: I don't know... maybe the producers like those type of people. Rally: We'll see. Back to TK and Kari. Maybe you two can straighten out all of these potential nominees and choose some winners! [End video feed] *** Kari: Finally back, are we? TK: Look Kari, I'm sorry! You know that Giselle means nothing to me! Kari: (raising an eyebrow) What about Chelsea? TK: What about Chelsea? Kari: (starting to walk away) Fine then... TK: Okay, Chelsea doesn't mean anything to me either, Kari! You know that you're the only girl for me! Kari: (stops and turns around) Well... okay. I forgive you. TK: Good! (reaching over to Kari) Let's hug and make up! Kari: (pulls away) Okay... let's not get too far. TK: (smiles, then turns back towards the camera) So, we finally have our twenty finalists! But who will make the show? Kari: Well, we flew the finalists to Tokyo for the final interview. TK: Each of them was asked a set of questions, based on their qualifications and what types of characters the producers wanted in the show. Kari: But the last question they were asked would determine whether they would get in or not. TK: Five different questions were asked, meaning that the finalists were distributed into groups of four. Kari: Let's see how they fared. Will you pick out who made the show? *** [Begin video feed - Tokyo Tower] TK: The first group was asked this question: "What would you do to improve your chances of winning since you are from a show that was represented last year?" Kari: Obviously, we pooled Jessie, Jeri, Kiyone, and Julian for their answers. Here's how they responded. [Group 1 Video] Jessie: First of all, I wouldn't bicker and cry like a baby, which some of the twerps did constantly. Once that's established, I would show off my physical abilities and win as many challenges as possible. And lastly, if I ever ended up in an alliance, I'd backstab my partner before he or she backstabs me! Jeri: The odds are against me since both TK and Kari, Digimon cast members, won. Still, I feel that my friendly personality and my strong heart will make me a fan favorite to win! Kiyone: No offense to Tenchi and Sasami, but I'd do more than just the basic 'housekeeping' duties. I'd wheel and deal, trying to make as many friends as possible. But you have to become true friends with them; just using them to get ahead is a bad idea. There weren't many alliances last year, I heard, but most of them did backfire or fall apart and people relied mostly on voting for people they know. Julian: The key is to be a nice guy and get along with everyone. Who can you get votes from in the end if you've got no one who wants you to win? [End video 1] Kari: Not bad answers from the group there, but that was an easy question. TK: This next one won't be. Kari: The second group was asked this: "Would you be able to part from your weapon, since they are not allowed in the mansion?" TK: Roger, Faye, Misty, and Duo were pegged for this one. What did they have to say? [Group 2 Video] Roger: It's not like I really need it. I only use a gun when negotiations get out of hand. Safe to say, that happens very rarely. So there'll be no need to pull one out if I have to settle a dispute. Faye: Of course! You think it's absolutely necessary! I mean, it helps when you seem to be an easy target like myself, but I can handle myself without a gun. Misty: Are you worried about me stealing something? It's not going to happen! (crosses her fingers behind her back) Honest! Duo: I can subdue someone with my bare hands as well as the next Gundam pilot! Who needs a weapon anyway? [End video 2] TK: Weird responses. Kari: I'm lucky I don't have to share a mansion with them. What if they go off the deep end like Ash nearly did? TK: From being apart from his Pikachu? (sarcastically) Yeah, right. (serious again) Moving on... the next group had to answer this: "Being a member of the 17 and up club, a contestant that's at least 17, in other words, what type of role do you find yourself playing among your fellow residents, who will most likely be young kids and teenagers?" Kari: Melfina, Chi-Chi, Christina, and Keitaro... take it away! [Group 3 Video] Melfina: I'm not sure... but if they're all like Jim, then it shouldn't be a problem at all! I'll make friends with them easily! Chi-Chi: If I get in the show, I'll most likely end up being the mother figure. Which would be easy for me, since I'm raising two perfect gentleman at home! Gohan and Goten, that is. Christina: A big sister, maybe? I've always treated Al as the little brother that I never had. It's too bad that I haven't seen him much as of late, working as a test pilot and all keeps me very busy. Keitaro: A brother, I guess. If they are going to be younger than I am, I can at least teach the guys to be careful around girls when they get as old as me. And as for the girls, I guess I'll tell them to be more open-minded towards boys... 'cause you never know when one may become the manager of your dorm. [End video 3] Kari: Right... Keitaro. If that's what college life is like, I'd rather wait a few years until some people get more mature. TK: That'll never happen. For every person that's like you, there's a person that's like Davis. Kari: (rolls her eyes) Anyway, continuing on. The next group got this question: "Since you are among the youngest finalists, how would you prove to the old residents that you can hold your own weight in the mansion, whether it be doing a decent amount of chores, being competitive in the challenges, etc.?" TK: Tough one for the young ones to ponder. Mondo, Ikki, Sana, and Genki... let's put you the test! [Group 4 Video] Mondo: I'm a Mon Colle Knight! I'm able to battle my way through any challenge that you or the other residents may throw at me! The only person capable of stopping me is Rockna! (whispers) Do you know that she has quite a temper? Ikki: I've been through plenty of battles with Metabee, so this should be a piece of cake! I'll do well in the challenges and I'll be helpful around the house! I mean, my parents know me better than anyone! I can do it! Sana: (begins to rap) Will Sana-chan be competitive? Of course she will! Of course she will! I go to school! I do commercials! I have my own show! I am a leader! And yet, I still keep going! I still keep going! And I can take down any guy who thinks otherwise! Oh yeah, yes I can! Genki: What kind of question is that? I was kicking the Big Bad Four's butt in the Monster World! I helped save a town from a flood by building a dam! I can carry Holly, who is almost twice my size! What more do you want from me? [End video 4] TK: (sweatdrops) Quite a hyperactive group we got there. Kari: I hope all four of them don't get in, or the mansion won't last a week! TK: At least our last group is sane. They got the hardest question, though. "If you were to win, how would you spend the prize money?" Kari: Ah, yes. The eternal 'what happens after you win if you win' question. Amuro, Joey, Amy, and Bit got this one. Let's see how they answer. [Group 5 Video] Amuro: Gee... I never thought about winning. I was just going to help promote "Mobile Suit Gundam." But I guess if I did win, I'd probably use the money to help those who lost lives and property in the One Year War. Joey: That's easy. I'll use the money to pay for my sister's operation. Then, if there's any left, I'll use it to buy a plane ticket to go see her. We've been apart for so long and I think that after this, we'll be closer than ever. Amy: I would put the money towards college. After all, it takes a lot of time to become a pediatrician. Think of all of the classes I'd have to take. That's a lot of money, no matter if I decide to go to college here or in Germany or wherever. Bit: I'd probably spend it all on a big celebration. The whole team will thank me for it. I mean, we've been meaning to have one since we won the Royal Cup and moved up to class S! [End video 5] Kari: All noble causes, I see. TK: I just hope the other's feel the same way. Kari: So, assuming a six male/six female mansion, who are your picks to get in? TK: For the guys, Roger, Bit, Duo, Joey, Genki, and Ikki. For the girls, Misty, Jeri, Amy, Kiyone, Melfina, and Christina. What about you? Kari: Me? I'd have to choose Faye, Sana, Amy, Kiyone, Melfina, and Chi-Chi for the women and Mondo, Roger, Amuro, Duo, Julian, and Joey for the men. TK: Interesting picks. Kari: I wonder how many we got right. Two numbers appear on the screen. A '7' appears below TK and an '8' appears below Kari. TK: What? How could you get one more right than me? Kari: Because I'm supposed to be the perfect one, remember? TK: Then how come you didn't get a perfect score? Kari: Well, it wouldn't exactly be fair for the readers at home to guess if I told them the right answers, would it? TK: I guess not. That does it for us for the Casting Special! Kari: Find out who makes the cast when the season premiere airs at Fanfiction.net, Tuesday night, April 23rd! TK: Until then, I'm TK Takashi! Kari: And I'm Kari Kamiya! For all of our correspondants in Okayama, Goldenrod, Sentinel III, and Chicago, good night everyone! End Episode Zero The candidates for Roomies 2: Country Living: Amuro Ray - Mobile Suit Gundam Amy Anderson - Sailor Moon Bit Cloud - Zoids Chi-Chi Sonn - Dragonball Z Christina McKenzie - Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket Duo Maxwell - Gundam Wing Faye Valentine - Cowboy Bebop Genki - Monster Rancher Ikki Tenryou - Medabots Jeri Katou - Digimon Tamers Jessie - Pokémon: Johto League Champions Joey Wheeler - Yu-Gi-Oh! Julian Star - Cardcaptors Keitaro Urashima - Love Hina Kiyone Makibi - Tenchi Universe Melfina - Outlaw Star Misty Brown - Gunsmith Cats Mondo Ooya - Mon Colle Knights Roger Smith - Big O Sana Kurata - Kodomo no Omocha (Child's Toy) So, who do you think made the cut? You'll find out in two weeks, when the season premiere airs April 23rd! Now, for those of you who are interested... I am offering 3-5 cameo spots! If you want to make a guest appearance in "Roomies 2: Country Living," then all you need to do is leave your name and e-mail address for me to contact you. This just tells me if you're interested in being a cameo. This is NOT first come, first serve. All people who apply to be a cameo by 11 p.m. EST on April 18th will get a chance to do so. For the week following that, those interested will be sent a cameo application to fill out. From there, I will select the cameos. The number of spots I give out depends on how many people apply! So if you guys want to see 5 authors/readers make cameos, then get as many people as possible to sign up! Thanks for hanging in and reading this very long casting special. I'll see you all in two weeks with Episode 1! Copyright Date: 4/9/02