"Roomies 3: Digital Frontier," written by Freedom Fighter Back on track now, hoping things will go smoother now that "Mystery Solvers" is done. In addition, this double-length halfway episode should also help you all get back into the groove. Disclaimer: I do not own any of the anime series, characters, or locations represented in this fanfic. I also do not own any of the reality show elements presented as well. = = = = = = = = = = Tenchi: (VO) 16 contestants from 12 anime shows. 42 days living by themselves in the wild Digital World. But only one will walk away with a grand prize of one million dollars. (Begin theme song, showing each of the contestants one at a time for 1.5 seconds each) - Amy M., Sailor Moon - Amy R., Sonic the Hedgehog - Haruka, Love Hina - James, Pokémon: Master Quest - Jet, Cowboy Bebop - Keith, Yu-Gi-Oh! - Nabiki, Ranma 1/2 - Rally, Gunsmith Cats - Rini, Sailor Moon Super S - Takuya, Digimon Frontier - Tally, Digimon Tamers - Trowa, Gundam Wing - Trunks, Dragonball Z - Whitney, Pokémon: Master Quest - Yugi, Yu-Gi-Oh! - Yusuke, Yu-Yu Hakusho (Show scenes of Tally being stretched, Jet riding a roller coaster, Nabiki playing a card game, and Trowa giving Gatomon an order.) Tenchi: (VO) Some of them will become the best of friends. Others will develop grudges against those they hate. But only one will walk away with up to a million dollars or more in cash and prizes. (A log cabin appears in the background.) Tenchi: (VO) These men and women are... Roomies! (End theme song, with a picture of all 16 contestants standing with Flame Terminal behind them in the background.) = = = = = = = = = = Episode 9 - Returning to the Norm? (04.29.03) Night Sixteen Returning from the trading challenge at the Autumn Leaf Fair onboard Kettle, the sixteen Roomies looked to have a little rest and relaxation. There were a few people though that seemed as if they were going to do anything but relax. Case in point... once everyone got back to the hotel, Trunks and Yusuke went off in their own little corner to have a little conference of sorts. Yusuke: This bites! I thought this would be a walk in the park, but Haruka's too darn slow! I can't work with her! Trunks: What are you complaining about her for? You weren't exactly helping yourself by yelling at all the vendors! Yusuke: They wouldn't help me, okay? Trunks: Look, we're not here to discuss what happened in that last challenge. We just need to prepare so that we're in a better position to win. Yusuke: Shouldn't Nabiki be here to talk with us? Trunks: Forget about her! She hasn't helped us out one bit at all. Yusuke: But remember that she spied on us when we had our first sparing session! If we work behind her back, she might blab on us! Trunks: (smiling slyly) When has caring about her mattered to you? Yusuke: You're right! Screw her! You and I can manage things well enough on our own! Trunks: Yeah! Yusuke: We're the strongest ones here! It's time to start acting like it! Trunks: That's what I was thinking! But how do we accomplish that? Yusuke: I've got a full-proof plan that's sure to work! Just leave it all to me! ====== But while the Trunks-Yusuke-Nabiki alliance was being shortened to a Trunks- Yusuke one, another group of busybodies decided to have their first meeting together in Jet and Keith's room. Jet: The first meeting of the Adult Alliance has come to order! Tally: Adult Alliance? Don't you think that it'll make it too obvious to the others that we're together? Keith: Why worry about that? They're all little dweebs and they have to listen to us! We're the ones that they look up to for guidance! Tally: Because if we start acting too pushy, they're going to vote against us. We need to find a way to get on their good side. Haruka: I think we should start with our roommate challenge partners. Maybe we can help them out, and in return they'll help us. Jet: That's not a bad idea, Haruka! Tally: It might just work! I'm partnered with Amy Rose. Jet: I have James. Haruka: Yusuke. Keith: Rini. Jet: Hmmmm... Tally should have an easy time getting on Amy's good side. And James is gullible enough for me to take care of. Keith: Hold on! You want me to work with the squirt? Tally: He's got a point, Jet. I can't see Rini wanting to help out Keith. Haruka: (to Keith) If you want, we can switch partners. Keith: You mean take Yusuke? (rubs his chin) Now him I can deal with! Tally: You sure you don't mind talking to Rini? Haruka: No problem. Jet: Great! Now remember, we have to do this without letting on that the four of us are together! So be careful of how you approach them! Tally: And let's make sure we don't all do it at the same time. Keith: Heh... this ought to be a cinch! ====== Day Seventeen The following morning, Trowa is seen coming out of the elevator and into the ground floor lobby, heading out the door. Waiting for him is Nabiki, who waves happily at him. The two depart, with their destination unknown. Trowa: (CC) I'm finding myself at the point of the game where I need to start thinking about making deals so that I can get into the final four. It's no surprise that the first person I wanted to talk to about that was Nabiki. Nabiki: You're not coming with me just to keep me out of trouble, are you? Trowa: I wasn't going to, but since you brought it up... Nabiki: I won't do anything bad, honest! The two of them walked through the streets of Hamburger Village, glancing around as several Hamburgermon came out to observe them. Trowa: (CC) Seeing how well we worked together the first few days, we should have no problems maintaining a lasting partnership. Trowa and Nabiki are seen sitting inside a burger restaurant, chatting with each other as their hamburgers lied half-finished in front of them. Nabiki: You want to work with me? Trowa: That's why I decided to come out here with you. Of course, I don't want to force you into a partnership if... Nabiki: I guess it's okay. Trowa: You're accepting my offer? Nabiki: On one condition! Trowa: (leans back in his chair) You want money out of it, right? Nabiki: Of course! A good chunk of your winnings. Trowa: My winnings? How can you be thinking about that now? This game's far from over, and I surely don't consider myself a front runner... Nabiki: So? What have you got to lose? You only have to share the grand prize with me if you win. Trowa: Point taken. But how much of a share do you want? Nabiki: I really hadn't thought of that. Hmmm... twenty-five percent? Trowa: (raising an eyebrow) Isn't that a bit much? Nabiki: I'm being generous here! I could honestly go for an even 50-50 split if I wanted to! Trowa: Okay, no need to get that carried away! Twenty-five percent it is. Nabiki: Fine then! If you win, I get a quarter of what you win! Trowa: And if you win, I get a quarter of your pot. Nabiki: Wait a minute! That wasn't part of the deal! Trowa: But isn't the partnership that we just agreed on designed to benefit us both equally? I should get the same reward if you win as you do if I win. Nabiki: But... but... Trowa: You seem to be awfully worried. Remember that you only have to share IF you win. You've got a 1-in-16 chance, same as me. Like you said, what do we have to lose? Nabiki: (CC) How come it seems like I got the short end of the straw there? If only I had known Trowa wanted to work with me, I would have planned ahead! Trowa: (CC) Nabiki seemed a bit shaken from the deal we just made. Sometimes I think that all her life revolves around is money and how to get her hands on it. ====== Looking out the window of his hotel room, Takuya has a worried look on his face as he holds his D-Tector in his right hand. Yugi is lying down on his bed, watching a Digimon television show while shuffling his Duel Monsters deck. Yugi: Is something wrong, Takuya? You've been staring out that window all morning. Takuya: (turning to look at Yugi) I'm worried about what's happening at the campsite. Yugi: But didn't Tenchi say they have their own crew to take care of it. Takuya: But they don't know Digimon like I know them! I should be there, helping them out! Yugi: It's out of your control! Besides, if they would have needed you, they would have let you stay! Takuya: Do they expect me to just sit around here and do nothing while who knows what is going on back there? Yugi: You've got to calm down! They have their job to do, and you have yours. Participating in this game to the fullest. Takuya: (calming down) Maybe you're right. I know I can't do anything. But that still doesn't make me any happier. Yugi: I'm sure that when we get back, everything will be a-ok! Takuya threw his D-Tector onto his bed, then headed for the door. Yugi: Where are you going? Takuya: Out for a walk. ====== An hour later, James is seen in the hotel's restaurant, stuffing himself with food of all Digiworld-varieties. Or in the case of this particular restaurant, gourmet burgers of all varieties. While he was munching down, he didn't notice Jet come in and walk over to his table. Jet: What's going on, partner? James: (wrapping his arms around the food) This is all mine! MINE! Jet: (sitting down) You're going to give yourself a heart attack eating all of those burgers. James: I don't care! I'm hungry! Jet: We've been here practically a whole week and all you can think about is stuffing your face? James: I'm used to eating very little on the road. (sadly) I don't have the money to pay for much. Jet: Living from paycheck to paycheck, huh? Must be rough. James: Especially when I get paid very little! Jet: If the pay's low, then why don't you just quit and find another job? James: If only it were that easy. Besides, I couldn't leave Jessie and Meowth behind. Jet: Then why don't all of you just quit and find a new job together? James: I guess that could work. James then began eating again, as Jet looked on. Jet: Say... what if I help you win the prize money? James: (stops) What? Are you serious? Jet: Sure. If it'll help you start a new life once you quit your job, then I'm all for it. James: (smiling evilly) Okay... what's the plan? ====== Meanwhile, Amy Rose was in her room, writing a letter home to her fellow Freedom Fighters. Or actually, just to one in particular. Amy R.: (VO, as she writes) Dear Sonic. I hope that you'll be able to read this letter before I get back, seeing as how I don't how to get it to you from the Digiworld. Do you miss me? I miss you! I've never been away from you for so long, and I've still got a whole month to go! Suddenly, the door opens. Rini and Trunks are waving at her. Rini: Amy, come on! We're going to go swim in the pool again! Trunks: Yeah! Come and have some fun with us! Amy R.: (glancing at them) In a minute! I want to finish writing this letter! Rini: (running off) We'll see you downstairs then! Rini and Trunks left, leaving Amy to finish her letter. Amy R.: (VO) A lot of things have happened here, many of which I can't explain. But rest assured, I'm thinking about you everyday! I can't wait for the day that we're reunited back on Mobius! Sincerely yours, Amy. Amy folds up the letter, stuffs it into an envelope, and licks it close. She then searches through her bags for her swimsuit to change into. Amy R.: (CC) I'll be home soon, Sonic! And I'm bringing home the grand prize, too! ****** Night Seventeen It's early evening, and Tally is doing some writing in her own room. But unlike Amy, she's not writing a letter home. She's composing a notebook of all of the Digimon she's seen so far. Naturally, this has not gone by without notice from her roommate, Haruka. Haruka: Catching up on some work, I see. Tally: This is my first chance to witness the wonders of the Digital World first hand. I want to be able to share my findings with my colleagues. Haruka: So to you, this is just an on-site research project to you. Tally: Oh no, Haruka! I'm here for the money too. I want to win this game as badly as you do. Haruka: (putting a hand on Tally's shoulder) Don't work too hard. No use in tiring yourself out mentally. Who knows what we'll be up against in our next challenge. Tally nodded, then resumed her notetaking. Haruka walked off and went over towards her bed, where she lied down and settled into a romance novel that she had borrowed from Amy. ====== At around ten p.m., a piece of paper is slipped under everyone's door. Amy M. picks it up and begins to read it. Amy M.: The next challenge requires an overnight trip by Trailmon. You may bring a change of clothes and any needed toiletries. Be at the Trailmon station in one hour. Don't be late! (shouting) Rally, we'd better start packing! ====== Yugi: So where do you think we're going this time, Takuya? Takuya: I don't know. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Yugi: I guess. Takuya: Hmmmm... I wonder what type of challenge we'll have. ====== Day Eighteen The skies of the Digiworld are still very dark as Worm travels along the tracks. Inside, we peek in at some of the sleeping Roomies. We see Keith stretched out on one large bench and Jet in the same position on a second. Rini and Trunks are sleeping with their backs against each other, and Amy R. is on the same bench, leaning against the right-side railing. Last but not least, Trowa's head is propped back as Nabiki uses his shoulder as a pillow. Surpisingly, there's one person that's wide awake. Takuya. Takuya: (sighs) How can everyone be so calm? Things have been fine the past few days, but what if we get attacked by Digimon again? Will everyone know how to react? They know that I can't protect them all. Takuya glances out the window and into the dark of night, with thoughts of what might have happened to the campsite linger in his mind. ====== The next thing anyone knew, the sun was rising and Worm was pulling into Forest Terminal, their scheduled stop. Worm: Whoo whoo! Forest Terminal, end of the line! Whoo whoo! Everyone slowly came to their senses as Worm slowed down to a complete stop. Jet: (shaking James) Time to get up! James: I don't want to capture Pikachu yet, Jessie. Jet: Unless you want to be left on the Trailmon, get up! James: (getting up) Alright, I'm up! Tenchi, who had been sleeping in a separate car, came in to talk to the Roomies. Tenchi: If anyone wants to take care of their morning business before breakfast and today's challenge, please follow me. ====== Leading the group into the nearby forest, Tenchi comes across a fork in the path. Tenchi turns around and addresses the group. Tenchi: (points to his left) Ladies, you'll go down this way. There's a small pond about a quarter of a mile from here. You can use it to wash up. (points to his right) Gentlemen, you'll follow me to a different pond. It's a bit further away, but the pond there is also big enough to accommodate you. The group splits up by gender and heads off to wash. ====== A little later that morning, everyone is gathered among a bunch of picnic tables that have been set up just outside the Trailmon station. An assortment of breakfast foods, prepared by Kiyone and Mihoshi, are spread out as the group enjoys their last meal before the next challenge. As usual, James and Trunks were eating more than their weight... for different reasons, of course. And that seemed to be turning off some of their fellow competitors. Rally: Didn't your mothers teach you two table manners? Tally: It's bad for your health to eat too much! Keith: I say let 'em pig out! It's their bodies, after all. Amy M.: I think we should be concerned, Keith. Tally is right... having too much to eat can actually be harmful. James: (with his mouth stuffed) Bwesides, I'm wungwy. Trunks: (also stuffed) And it umphs mwe grulfow. Rally: (growls Kiyone-like) I can't believe this! Kiyone: (with her head leaning on her table-resting arm) You're telling me. Next to Kiyone, we see Mihoshi pigging out almost as much as James and Trunks. Tenchi: (sweatdrops, sticking his head out) Hey! I'm the only non-competitor that's supposed to be on camera every episode! ====== Once breakfast had been finished, Tenchi once again addressed the group. Tenchi: Today, we have a prize challenge for you guys. It's the first one we've had in awhile, but first we have to do some walking. You can leave your belongings with Kiyone and Mihoshi, 'cause you won't be needing them. Tenchi leads the way through a forest path and up a grassy hill. After a brief ten-minute walk, they reach the top of the hill. When Tenchi stops there, the Roomies look confused, as there is nothing but grass and forest as far as the eye can see. Takuya: But... there's nothing out here. Yusuke: Please don't tell me that this challenge involves a nature walk! Tenchi: Hold on... give it a few minutes. Rally: Give what a few minutes? Rally got her answer, as a floating island appeared over the trees shortly thereafter. The entire group was amazed as the island stopped in front of them, hovering high enough to avoid hitting any trees, of course. The island's inhabitants, the ShadowToyAgumon, threw down to Tenchi a sturdy, makeshift bridge. Once it was secure, Tenchi led the puzzled group onto the island. To the group's surprise, the island resembled an amusement park. There were rides, a midway, and a stage show or two. All of this while still allowing plenty of room for trees and flowers to grow and bloom. Amy R.: Wow! An amusement park! Rini: This is so cool! Can we go on some rides? Takuya: (to Tenchi) Are you sure we should be here? This place isn't exactly safe, you know. Tenchi: No need to worry, Takuya. The ShadowToyAgumon have ensured full cooperation and free use of the park, provided we don't make a mess of it. As for your question, Rini, yes. Rini: Yippee! Tenchi: But first things first! Today's challenge does involve a ride here on the island. If you'll all follow me, we'll go there to find out what it is. ====== Tenchi led the group through the 'park,' as they noticed a small crowd of ShadowToyAgumon observing them while they were enjoying their day there. But once one ride in particular came into view, the group began to react. Whitney: You mean we have to ride... that? Jet: How about first explaining what that is supposed to be? Rally: It's a roller coaster, Jet! People ride it for a thrill. Rini: Aren't I a bit small for this ride? Tenchi: It's okay... it's perfectly safe. Amy R.: (CC) When I first looked at this roller coaster, my jaw nearly fell off. You mean coasters go that high? I don't like where this is going. Yusuke: (CC) Now this is the type of challenge I've been waiting for! The group now stands at the ride entrance. One ShadowToyAgumon is standing at ready at the control panel, while four others are waiting in the station to lock the group in their seats. The coaster train consists of 10 two-person cars, enough to fit twenty Digimon... or twenty humans. Tenchi: Today's challenge is called Roller Coaster Marathon. The objective is simple. To be the person who stays on the coaster the longest. There will be one male winner and one female winner. Allow me to run through this coaster's specific stats. The 'control' ShadowToyAgumon starts up the coaster, allowing it to take a few test runs, as well as allow the Roomies to watch it fly down the track. Tenchi: (VO, as we look at the coaster train be pulled up the first hill) This coaster is 2,227 feet long and includes five drops. The longest of those drops is of course the first, which drops you from a height of 62 feet. The coaster averages 14 mph, with a maximum of 47 mph. During the ride, you will experience almost five vertical G's up and down, and just over 2 lateral G's in the turns. As you can see, the coaster also includes a 720 degree downward spiral. All in all, one circuit lasts a minute and 23 seconds. Back to Tenchi and the others on ground level. Tenchi: Note that once you get on, you are considered still in the game as long as you are onboard. If you get off of the coaster or throw up, you are out. Another note, there will be no breaks for food, drink, restroom, or rest. Now... wanna know what you're playing for? Tenchi holds up two plane tickets and shows them to the group. Tenchi: One male and one female will each win a pair of plane tickets. So each winner, and one of their friends or family members, will win a weekend in any city in the world of their choosing. We'll pay for transportation to and from your desired getaway spot, and for your hotel rooms as well. Isn't that swell? The Roomies seem to be genuinely interested, but some are also nervous about the coaster... which, believe it or not, is only middle-of-the-road when it comes to how intense it is. Tenchi: So, if you're all ready, let's get started. ====== [Prize Challenge 3: Roller Coaster Marathon] The sixteen competitors are strapped into their seats. Remember, the coaster sits 20, so four of the seats are empty. [Seating Arrangements: Row One: Takuya (left) and Trowa (right) Row Two: Haruka (left) and Jet (right) Row Three: James (left) Row Four: Trunks (right) Row Five: Amy R. (left) and Rini (right) Row Six: Rally (left) and Amy M. (right) Row Seven: Nabiki (right) Row Eight: Yugi (left) and Whitney (right) Row Nine: Tally (left) Row Ten: Yusuke (left) and Keith (right)] Tenchi: (with a tray in hand) If you guys having anything loose, you might want to put it in this tray so that it doesn't fall out during the ride. Amy M. hands over her transformation pen and her communicator, Takuya puts his goggles in the tray, Keith gives up his sunglasses, and Rini tosses over her locket. But Tenchi tries to get the Millennium Puzzle from Yugi... Yugi: I'm sorry Tenchi, but I don't feel comfortable taking it off. Keith: Will you stop being a dweeb? No one's going to steal it! Whitney: Keith's right, you know. Gee, I can't believe I'm agreeing with him at all. Tenchi: You have nothing to worry about, Yugi. I'll take good care of it. After some reluctance, Yugi gives in and takes off the Millennium Puzzle. Once he puts it into Tenchi's tray, the host steps back as the ShadowToyAgumon starts the ride. Tenchi: The game begins now! Good luck guys! The coaster train makes a left turn and is then pulled up the first hill, which peaks at 62 feet above the ground. As the train makes its way to the top, the nervousness of some of the riders becomes obvious. Rini is covering her eyes, Yugi gulps in fear, and James is shaking in his chair. Yusuke: (looking at the top of the hill) Here it comes! ****** The train finally arrives at the top, as the cars in front begin to edge over to the steep downslope. The train picks up speed as the cars in the back reach the top and start to edge down. Lots and lots of screaming can be heard as the opening 62-foot drop passes in less than two seconds. The first hill pulls the train back up to 45 feet above the ground, leading right into two left turns, the first being banked. It's then another drop to ground level, but this time it leads into two hills, peaking at 37 feet and 32 feet, respectively. It's then around a wide U-turn and up another hill, this one 28 feet up. From there, the track banks right and into the 720-degree downward spiral, which nearly pushes the group out of their seats. If not for the safety bars, they'd probably all fall out. Once through that, the track makes a left-hand turn. It's then followed by two left half-turns, and then one last drop to ground level, where the track's built-in brakes slow the train down as it enters the station. Tenchi: So, I see you all managed to survive one trip. Does anybody not want to risk a second? There are no takers to get off, even though Rini seems to be scared out of her wits, and both James and Trunks are beginning to look a little green. Rally: You call that a roller coaster? I'm ready for more! Bring it on! Whitney: Yeah... what she said. Yusuke: Is there anyway we can make this faster? Then it would be even more exciting! Suddenly, James begins to wave his hands around. The ShadowToyAgumon at the control panel lifts up the safety bars. Immediately, James jumps off the train and runs off, holding his mouth. [James out - Time elapsed: 1 minute, 32 seconds] Tenchi: James is out, and in a minute, so will everything he ate half an hour ago! Tally: That's what he gets for eating too much. Tenchi: Anyone else? Well, let's get the coaster started up again! The ShadowToyAgumon push all of the safety bars down again, and then the train pulls out to begin circuit number two. ====== [Challenge Fast Forward] (Circuit # 2) Immediately after the train comes to a stop, Amy Rose calls for someone to get Rini out. Tenchi and the ShadowToyAgumon run over as the safety bars are lifted. Rini is shaking in fear as she grips tightly to Amy's arm. They manage to pry her off and pull her away from the station. As the train pulls off again, Tenchi and some of the ShadowToyAgumon are seen trying to calm Rini down. [Rini out - Time elapsed: 3 minutes, 9 seconds] (Circuit # 3) Trunks holds his hands over his mouth as he attempts to keep from throwing up. He is pulled from his car, but Trunks doesn't make it off of the platform before puking out part of his breakfast. [Trunks out - Time elapsed: 4 minutes, 39 seconds] (Circuit # 4) Amy M. has had enough, as she waves that she wants out. The same goes for Yugi, who bows out as well just as nausea starts to catch up with him. [Amy M. out - Time elapsed: 6 minutes, 5 seconds] [Yugi out - Time elapsed: 6 minutes, 7 seconds] (Circuit # 5) Amy R. and Whitney both think about getting off, as they don't seem to be holding up well. Neither is Takuya, but he stays on as well... (Circuit # 6) Which is a bad decision because Takuya is seen puking down into the car. For doing so, he is immediately ordered out once the train stops in the station. Trowa thinks about dropping out because he was sharing a car with Takuya, but he stays in. Amy R. and Nabiki are about to toss their cookies as well after seeing that, so they get off as well. [Takuya out - Time elapsed: 8 minutes, 2 seconds Amy R. and Nabiki out - Time elapsed: 9 minutes, 4 seconds] (Circuit # 7) On the next trip in, Whitney immediately leaps out of her car and runs off to the bathroom. Haruka motions to get out, but stops herself short and decides to stay in. Yusuke and Jet are showing signs of sickness, but they also stay on board. [Whitney out - Time elapsed: 10 minutes, 35 seconds] [End Challenge Fast Forward] ====== The train comes in for the eighth time as Tenchi looks at the seven remaining competitors: four of them men, three of them women. Tenchi: Anyone wanting to get off? Obviously by now, if they aren't sick, parts of their bodies are aching, they've nearly screamed their voices out, or are experiencing some other side effect of riding a roller coaster for an extended period of time. Once the safety bars are lifted, everyone waits to see if anyone will make a move. Trowa, though, doesn't wait, and immediately hops out, just happy to get away from the mess that Takuya had made before he could add to it. [Trowa out - Time elapsed: 12 minutes, 10 seconds] Trowa: The trip wouldn't matter much to me anyway. You guys can have it. Tenchi: Trowa surprisingly drops out! Anyone else? Once again, silence and waiting. Finally, Jet gets up and out of his car. [Jet out - Time elapsed: 12 minutes, 17 seconds] Jet: (holding a hand to his head) I'm just glad to get off that thing. Man, does my head hurt! Yusuke and Keith are looking at each other, trying to psych the other into getting off. Just as Tenchi turns to signal the ShadowToyAgumon, Keith jumps up. Keith: I know when I'm beat. (to Yusuke) It's all yours. Keith gets out, leaving Yusuke as the only male left, and thus, the winner. [Keith out - Time elapsed: 12 minutes, 21 seconds] Yusuke jumps out right afterwards, not wanting to make another circuit. [Yusuke - Male Winner - Time elapsed: 12 minutes, 22 seconds] Keith: Hey! I thought you were going to stay in! Yusuke: I was. But then I figured... I didn't want to embarrass myself and puke on national TV. The ShadowToyAgumon push the safety bars down and the train is sent on its way again. Haruka, Rally, and Tally are the only ones still on board. Yusuke: Man, they're crazy if they stay on there much longer. My legs are beginning to feel like jelly! Keith: At least we get to see them aching and groaning afterwards. (smiles) It'll be worth the admission. Can you imagine them being barely able to walk? Yusuke: I hear you on that one! ====== Outside, sitting on a bench facing the roller coaster, Amy Mizuno notices all of the remaining guys (Trowa, Jet, Keith, and Yusuke) come out. Luckily, most of them had recovered already. Amy M.: Don't tell me all four of you got off at the exact same time! Yusuke: More or less, yeah we did. So? Jet: We just realized that it's not worth dragging this on. (sighs) In fact, I probably should have quit earlier. I'm way too old for this sort of thing. Yusuke: And you call yourself a space cowboy? Jet: I usually don't pull that many G's at once! Yusuke: I could've gone a whole lot longer if I wanted to! Whitney: (returning from the bathroom) Someone's rather cocky... Yusuke: I have every right to be, Whitney, because I won! Plus, at least I didn't feel like puking my guts out the whole time! Trowa: How did you manage to stay up there? You don't look like the type of person who has the endurance to stand so much tossing and turning. Whitney: Really? So because I'm a woman, you think that I can't take what you can? Trowa: I didn't mean it that way. Yusuke: Of course you did, man! It's written on your face! Whitney: Is that the way you feel, Trowa? I can't believe this... out of all of the men, you were one of the last that I expected to say something like this! Trowa: Whitney, you're misunderstanding... Whitney: (interrupting) You're the one that's misunderstanding, Trowa! You don't understand what it's like to be a woman in a man's world! Whitney then stomps off. Trowa motions as if he's going to go after her, but Yusuke stops him. Yusuke: What are you doing going after her for? She deserved it! Keith: (laughing) Did you see the look on her face? She was so pissed at you, man! Amy M.: (standing up) How can you two be happy with this? Jet: I agree. You two are the absolute worse! Keith: What? Yusuke: Why are you reprimanding us? Trowa was the one who insulted her womanhood! Amy M.: But Trowa didn't mean it, as you two seem to see it! Jet: (to Trowa) I think you'd better go clear things up with Whitney before those bad thoughts of hers settle too far in. Trowa, who had been quiet throughout the exchange, nods and runs after Whitney. Amy M.: Why are you two always so mean to Whitney? Especially you, Yusuke! Yusuke: (points at himself) Me? I didn't do anything to her! Amy M.: You're the person that she's been arguing with the most! And you're the one who always starts it! Yusuke: It's only because I'm voicing my opinion! There's nothing wrong with that, especially if I'm correcting Whitney on something she did! Jet: Maybe, but that doesn't give you the right to take other people's words and change them, like you did with Trowa's. Keith: The broad had it coming to her. Jet: If I were you, I wouldn't talk. You're just as bad as Yusuke is! Keith: What? Yusuke was the one who changed Trowa's words around! Amy M.: Yeah, but you supported Yusuke's actions! That's just as bad! Yusuke: (CC) I can't believe this! I do something right and Amy and Jet are trying to bite my head off for it! I didn't do anything wrong, okay? Jet: (CC) Those two are pathetic. They're just scum. It's taking every fiber in body just to keep from knocking them clear into the next village! ====== Back on the coaster, the ninth circuit is completed. Haruka decides to concede, as she gets out and heads off to catch her breath. [Haruka out - Time elapsed: 13 minutes, 52 seconds] Rally and Tally glance at each other, both waiting to see if either was going to make a move. Rally: Want to give up? Tally: Nope. I want that vacation! Rally: Well, so do I! With that, the bars are relowered and Rally and Tally are sent on their tenth ride on the coaster. ====== Trowa catches up with Whitney, who is still walking away from the roller coaster. Trowa: Whitney, wait up! Whitney stops walking as Trowa comes to a rest right beside her. He takes a second to catch his breath, all the while glancing at Whitney's face. She continues to face forward, not willing to even let Trowa look at her. Whitney: (crossing her arms over her chest) I have nothing more to say to you. Trowa: Whitney, will you just let me explain? Whitney: Give me one good reason I should, Trowa! Trowa: Because... because I'm sorry. They both stood there silently, with only the noises of the amusement park filling the air. After a few seconds, Whitney turned to look at Trowa. But the angry scowl on her face was still there. Whitney: Alright, I'm willing to listen to your explanation. But it better be a good one! Trowa: Very well then. Perhaps we should sit... Whitney: I prefer standing, thank you very much! Trowa, seeing how thin Whitney's patience was, just decides to get straight to the point. Trowa: The comment I made was inappropriate, but I assure you that I did not intend to offend you in anyway. Whitney: Well, if you hadn't noticed, it did! Trowa: You're right, and I'm truly sorry for that. I should have never said such a thing. Whitney: I'm glad you're willing to apologize for making a mistake. I'm willing to forgive you, as long as you promise not to say anything else like that again! Trowa: You have my word. Whitney: Good. Trowa, relieved that he resolved this problem, turns to head back. Whitney: Trowa? Trowa: (stops) Yes? Whitney: (changing from angry to sad) I guess I should say I'm sorry too. Trowa: (turning around) For what? Whitney: For yelling at you. I shouldn't have blown up so easily. I should have given you a chance to explain yourself. Trowa: But you just did, didn't you? I completely forgive you. Whitney: Well, I don't forgive myself! Trowa: Huh? Whitney: (looking down) I let my past experiences in life control my reaction. You didn't deserve the tongue lashing I gave you. Trowa: (walking back towards Whitney) Gender equality problems at work, I take it? Whitney: I guess you could put it that way. Trowa: Want to talk about it? Whitney: Not really. It wouldn't fix things anyway. Trowa: Why not? Whitney: It's kinda complicated. Maybe I'll explain it another time, when I'm not apologizing for shouting at someone. Trowa and Whitney look at each other for a moment, as if to suggest that their reconcile was complete. Trowa: We'd better get back. Whitney: Yeah, before everyone starts thinking we're a couple. Trowa: (shakes his head as the two head back) Catherine would have my head if that were true. Whitney: That's nothing compared to what the tabloids will be saying when I get back home. ====== Once they had gotten back, Amy M. and Jet made Yusuke and Keith apologize to both Trowa and Whitney. Yusuke and Keith: We're sorry. Trowa: Apology accepted. Whitney: You two should know better! I expected better from... Trowa: Whitney, be nice. Whitney: (catching herself) Uh... alright, apology accepted too. Jet: Good. Now, let's go check on the others and see how they're holding up. ====== Rally and Tally have hung on for another two circuits, bringing the total to eleven. Both of them seemed to be tired and aching pretty badly. They also were barely holding onto their stomaches. The two of them seem to be trying to be deal-making again, attempting to convince the other to get off. Rally: We both know that we can't go much longer. Tally: That's true. I think we need to decide who needs it more. Rally: Well, I'm already spending six weeks away from bounty hunting, so I'll want to catch up when I get back. But, Minnie-May might appreciate a vacation with me. Tally: I work for the government, and I barely get any days off. I doubt my boss will give me time off after this is all over, but I don't care. I want an extended vacation anyway. Rally: Hmmm... tough call. Tally: I know. Now what? Rally: (after thinking for a second) I think you need it more than I do. Tally: You really think so? Rally: At least with my job, I can pick my off days. You can't. That's good enough for me. Before Tally could object, Rally got out of her car and walked towards the exit, thus ending the challenge. [Rally out - Time elapsed: 17 minutes, 10 seconds] The other competitors applaud as Tally gets out immediately afterwards. [Tally - Female Winner - Time elapsed: 17 minutes, 11 seconds] ====== Once everyone had caught their breath, Tenchi was there to award the winners with their prizes. Tenchi: Well, a very interesting challenge with an unexpected ending. But we do have two winners... Tally and Yusuke? The two winners step up, to the applause of their fellow competitors. Tenchi: Tally and Yusuke, congratulations! Each of you have a won a weekend trip to any city in the world of your choosing. Yusuke: Now that's what I'm talking about! Tally: I know just who to take too! Tenchi: (clapping as Yusuke and Tally rejoin the others) Good work to all of you. In fact, I think you all did a great job today that I decided that you guys all need a break. So, the park's all yours for the day! Now, go out and enjoy yourselves! The Roomies whooped and hollered in delight as they all went their separate ways and headed off to have some fun. ****** With the pressures of the challenge over with, the group is enjoying a fun day at the Digimon amusement park. They've all split up according to who they are most comfortable with. Jet, though, felt out of place and decided to just sit things out. Unfortunately, neither Haruka or Tally were willing to give him that opportunity. Tally: Come on and have some fun! Haruka: It's a nice way to unwind after the roller coaster. Jet: This isn't my thing! I'm not into amusement parks. In fact, there aren't many around in my time. Tally: That's why you should get up off your butt and go on some rides with us! Who knows when you'll be able to do this again? Jet: Will you stop bothering me? Haruka: I really think you should give it a chance, Jet. Tally: After all, you only live once! Haruka and Tally each grab an arm and try to pull Jet off of the bench. Of course, Jet's too big and too strong for them to lift. Luckily, Jet decides to give in. Jet: Alright, fine. But no more roller coasters! Tally: I second that! Haruka: That makes it unanimous. Tally: Let's just go out and have fun! The trio heads off, searching for something to ride. ====== Another trio has already found some fun on a horse carousel. Both Amys and Rini are content on going around in circles and taking it easy. Rini: Wheeeee! This is fun! Amy R.: I'll say! Rini: Say, where should we go next? Amy R.: (shrugs her shoulders) I don't know. Amy M.: (pointing towards a nearby funhouse) How about over there? Amy R.: Good idea! ====== Meanwhile, Takuya and James have paired up and have found their way to a miniature golf course. It was one of the few places where there were a lot of ShadowToyAgumon around. Takuya: Looks like this place is pretty popular. James: I don't know... I've never played miniature golf before. (whiny) What if I end up playing like a girl? Takuya: (with a teeth-bearing smile) Come on, bud-dy! What's the worse that could happen? Holding a golf cub and a golf ball each, Takuya's red and James's blue, they set up at the tee of the first hole. It's a simply uphill putt over a short bridge and then back down to the hole. Takuya: See, this is easy enough? You go first. James puts his ball down on the tee and prepares to strike it. James: Here goes! Swinging the club backward and then back forward, the ball is sent flying. It goes over the bridge and the hole, and into a tree. The ball bounces off of the trunk and lands on the ground, but off of the putting service. James: (throwing his club down in frustration) This is like that darn video game! Takuya: (laughs) You just have to learn to control your swing. Takuya puts his ball down and gets ready for his tee shot. Takuya: Just watch me! Hole-in-one! Pulling the club back and then swinging with all his might, Takuya's club connects with the ball. He drives it straight ahead and right into the hill, making it bounce back. Takuya moves out of the way, just nearly avoiding the ricocheted ball. Unfortunately, a foursome of ShadowToyAgumon approaching the hole don't see it coming. The ball bounces off of each of their heads, one at a time, knocking them all out and sending them falling to the ground. Takuya: (tossing the club away and sprinting off) I forfeit! James: (realizes what Takuya's doing, and does the same) Don't forfeit without me! ====== The foursome of Nabiki, Whitney, Yugi, and Trowa are together... well, they were a second ago. Maybe it's because of the fact that they've become separated in the middle of the park's complex hedge maze. Trowa: There must be a way out of here. Whitney: I could swear this was the right way. Yugi: (shouting) Don't worry! I'll find you guys and get us out! Yugi runs around, but ends up in a dead end. He sweatdrops. Yugi: Never mind... I'm as lost as you guys! Nabiki: Yippee! Whitney: Nabiki? Did you find the exit? Nabiki: Nope... but somebody dropped a few digi-dollars on the ground! Trowa: You're thinking about money at a time like this? Nabiki: It's hard not to think of it when it's on the ground in front of you! Finally, Yugi comes across a ShadowToyAgumon in the maze. Yugi: Excuse me, but I've bet you've been through here many times before. ShadowToyAgumon: Of course. Yugi: Do you happen to know the way out of here? ShadowToyAgumon: I'd tell... if I knew. Yugi: What? But you just said you've been through here a lot! ShadowToyAgumon: I have. I've been stuck in this maze for a week now, going through the same paths over and over again. Yugi: A week? How are you still alive? ShadowToyAgumon: (picks at his teeth) You sure you really wanna know? Yugi: (runs away) Somebody get me out of this maze! ShadowToyAgumon: Hey, hold on! Don't run away! I've never tried human before! I wanna open myself to new experiences here! Hello? (kicks the grass under his feet) Oh, darn it! ====== Keith and Yusuke are in the midway, where they have found themselves a rare oddity in the Digiworld... a punching machine. Yusuke: (rolling up his sleeves) Why don't I give this thing a test run and see how strong I am compared to the average Digimon? Keith: A scrawny guy like you on a punching machine? This I gotta see! Yusuke: Oh, you'll be seeing with your eyes bugged out when I'm done with this game! Yusuke hits the boxing glove with a powerful right jab. But he is filled with surprise when his score shows up on the results screen. Yusuke: What? A 31? This thing's rigged! Keith: (laughing out loud) Oh my God! Geese... you had me worried there for a moment. Yusuke: I must still be tired from all of that roller coaster riding. Keith: You're just weak! Let a man show you how it's done! Yusuke: (stepping aside) Be my guest, man! Keith rolls his sleeve up and then punches the boxing glove with all of his might. But now it's Yusuke's turn to laugh, as Keith scores only 19 points. Keith: That's impossible! Yusuke: (laughing his head off) A 19? Ha! I guess all those muscles of yours are just for show, huh? Suddenly, a ShadowToyAgumon steps up between them and tries his luck at the punching machine. Yusuke: I wouldn't try that if I were you. You won't even register a score at all! The ShadowToyAgumon proves him wrong, as he jumps up and jabs the glove. A score of 35 pops up. Keith: What? He's stronger than me? Yusuke: Forget you... he's stronger than me! That's it... this thing's rigged! Keith: What a rip-off! That's the first time I've ever been cheated! Yusuke: Cursed machine. Let's get outta here. ====== The sun is starting to go down as the group comes down from the floating island and back on solid ground. They head for the Trailmon station, where they quickly board to head back to Hamburger Village. Dinner awaits them as well as the group settles in for the trip back. ====== Night Eighteen When Worm pulls into the Trailmon station at Hamburger Village, the skies are still pitch dark and, according to Japanese time, it was around three a.m. Nevertheless, the group disembarks and makes their way back to the hotel to catch up on the rest of their sleep. ====== Day Nineteen The following morning, Takuya can be heard singing in the shower, even with the bathroom door closed. Yugi doesn't seem to notice, as he's too busy staring at a picture of him and his friends Joey, Tristan, and Téa. Yugi: (CC) Today's a very special day for one of my best friends. It happens to be Joey's birthday. Of course, I was hoping to not be in the Digital World today, but it's out of my control. But I guess it doesn't matter to you much. After all, you were in Okayama during your birthday last year, and you didn't mention a thing about it. ====== An hour later, Yugi and Takuya are down in the hotel gift shop. Yugi was searching for a late birthday present for Joey. Takuya: Are you sure you wanna go through with this? Yugi: Joey and I are the best of friends. I couldn't live with myself if I forgot his birthday. Takuya: But what are the chances you'll find something he likes here? Yugi: If I can't find anything, I'll just get him a card. I'm sure he'll understand. Yugi and Takuya go over the shop several times before Yugi finally settles on just getting a birthday card... for lack of something that Joey might adore. Yugi: (holding up the card) It's not a Duel Monsters card, but it'll do. Happy birthday, Joey! Takuya: Now all you have to do is figure out a way to get it to the real world. Yugi: I forgot about that! Joey's never going to get the card now. Takuya: Actually, I might have an idea. ====== A little while later, Worm is seen departing the station. Kiyone and Mihoshi are waving from the Trailmon car, with the former holding up the envelope containing the birthday card for Joey. Kiyone: He'll get it before the end of the day, Yugi! You can count on us! Mihoshi: Yeah! We're there before the sun goes down or your money back! Yugi: (as Worm disappears over the horizon) But I didn't pay you anything. ====== That afternoon, the Roomies were greeted with a message from Tenchi. Rally, in her room at the time, picks the notice off of the ground and reads it aloud. Rally: The 'Halfway Home' Pool Party. 2-5 p.m. in the hotel's indoor pool. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. And don't forget to bring your swimsuits! ====== Slowly but surely, the sixteen competitors get into their bathing suits and arrive downstairs in the indoor pool. It's rented out to them alone, so they can relax without having to worry about Digimon around... even though there were a few looking through the glass wall that separated the pool area from the main lobby. Off to the side, a table with all kinds of snack bowls has been set up. There's even an assortment of drinks... fruit punch, beer, and everything in between. As expected, certain people were delighted to be here at the party. James: I finally get a chance to work on my tan! Keith: Forget that! Why don't we get some real action? Yusuke: Why even try? There's too many prying eyes. Keith: This is the perfect opportunity! Just look at all the babes in bikinis! It's a man's paradise! James: (walking off) There's nothing special about that. Keith: Nothing special? What are ya, gay or somethin'? Yusuke: He's got a point. I'm kinda nervous about this too. Keith: So what, you're chickening out on me as well? Yusuke: It's too perfect, man. There's an accident waiting to happen, and I'm not going to be the one caught with my pants down! Keith: (rubbing his hands together) Suit yourself... the more for me! Yusuke: It's your funeral. I don't have to remind you about what happened with that Digimon, do I? Keith walks over towards where Rally and Whitney were talking, having not heard a word that Yusuke had said. Yusuke: (sighs as he heads to the other side) Why do I even bother? Keith tiptoes over, hoping that the two young women didn't notice him coming. It seems that was the only ones he was concerned about, as practically everyone else was watching him sneak over. Surprisingly, no one dared say anything... they only waited to see what would happen next. Rally: And so, we continued to chase him when this sharp curve came up! Being on new tires, there was no way my Shelby could take the corner at a hundred thirty. Whitney: A hundred and thirty? Were you crazy? Rally: It's nothing I couldn't handle. Of course, Bean got away. Unaware that Keith was within striking range, the girls continued to chat away. He moved in for the score... but Rally's instincts were too sharp, and she easily saw him coming. She pushes Whitney away from her, then sidesteps just in time to avoid the reach of Keith's lecherous hands. He lands on the ground, defeated and unsuccessful in his plot to cop a feel. But before he could catch his second wind, Rally places her right foot on his back, pinning him to the ground. Whitney, a little angry, thinks about yelling at Keith... only Rally gets to him first. Rally: (yelling angrily) You should consider yourself lucky! Had I had my gun on me, you'd probably be dead right now. She then lifts her foot off and walks away to go chat with a few of the others. Keith picks himself up, a little peeved as he heads for a chair and sits down on it. Keith: (growling under his breath) How did she move that fast? It's like she sensed I was coming! Rally: (smiling) The Cubs will win the World Series before someone ever gets the drop on Rally Vincent! As Keith sulks, he doesn't notice his fellow alliance members get together in the corner. They all didn't seem to be impressed with him at all. Tally: All in favor? Everyone in the trio, Tally, Jet, and Haruka, raises their right hand in the air. Tally: All opposed? No movement from anyone in the group. Tally: It's settled then. We're dumping Keith from the alliance tonight. Keith glances up in the ceiling, off in his own world and unaware of what awaits him tonight. ****** It's a good thing that the pool party wasn't just about seeing everyone else in swimsuits. Some of the Roomies were happy with just swimming in the pool and having fun. The 'kids,' Amy Rose, Rini, and Trunks, were leaning against one end of the pool and pointed towards the other side. They were about to have a race east-to-west across the water, keeping them on the shallow end of the pool. Rini: First one to the other side wins! Ready? Set? Go! The trio begins their swim across, but the girls are no match for Trunks. He just doesn't beat them... he flat out embarrasses them by reaching the other side in just eight seconds. It takes Rini five times that and Amy more than six times that amount of time to cover the same distance. Rini: No fair! Amy R.: You're so much better than we are! Trunks: I can't help it... I was born that way. In another part of the pool, the other Amy was practicing the backstroke. Trowa notices how fast Amy seems to glide through the water. Trowa: (as Amy stops to take a breather) I'm impressed... you've very good. Amy M.: Well, swimming has always been one of my strong suits. Trowa: You wouldn't have a problem escaping a mobile suit if it crash landed in water. Amy M.: Thanks... I think. ====== Towards the end of the pool party, Tenchi arrives to mingle a little bit. But once he's done with that, he gathers the group around him. They are all now out of the pool, with towels wrapped around those who are wet. On the refreshements table are seventeen glasses, one for Tenchi and each of the Roomies. They are all filled with the appropriate drink, dependent on age. Tenchi: Although we are not officially at halfway for another two full days, we had to have the party here for one important reason. Tonight, we will be departing the hotel and finally be heading back to the original lodging site near Flame Terminal. Tally: You mean we're going back? Tenchi: Yep. The Digimon problem has been solved, and it's safe to return. There was some chatter amongst the group, as some were concerned that it wasn't safe just yet. Rally: No offense, but is there an expert who can tell us for sure? Tenchi: I assure you, everything is okay! You'll all be fine! I've been told that the Digimon attacks have stopped completely, and that one has not happened in more than three days. Trowa: That sounds good enough to me. Amy R.: Wait... I don't want to go back! Not if we have to go and sleep on the ground again! Whitney: (shudders) I'm not looking forward to that either. Tenchi: Yep. With the exception of a few days here and there, you'll be back at the cabin and the campsite for the remainder of the game. You guys need to go back to your rooms and pack your stuff. We'll be leaving just before midnight. Tenchi picks up his glass of iced tea, non-alcholic for him, of course, and raises it for a toast. The group picks up glasses of their choice and raise them to the sky as well. Tenchi: To a great first 19 days, and hoping that the remaining 23 are just as exciting as they can be! Tally: Cheers to that! The group toasts and then downs their drinks. Once everyone's done, the party begins to wrap up as people go to wash up. There's still dinner and packing to do before it was time to leave. ====== Night Nineteen But, there was one matter to take care of first. We go to Jet's room where the Adult Alliance is have a meeting... and Keith is on the hot seat. Tally: Keith... the three of us have been talking, and we've decided that your behavior the past few days is detrimental to our plan's chances of succeeding. Haruka: We thought that you could keep your cool and stay out of trouble. Jet: But now we see that all you want to do is be an ass and play around with whomever you like! Tally: I'm sorry Keith, but we're going to have to kick you out of the alliance. Keith: What? You can't kick me out! You need me! Tally: The way I see it, you need us! And we've decided not to fufill that need of yours. Keith: Oh yeah? I'll prove that you still need me! Jet: And how's that? Keith: What would you say if I told everyone about this very alliance? That would certainly grab everyone's attention. Tally: But our alliance is only supposed to be accessible to them on a need-to-know basis! Only people we can trust should and will know! Keith: If you let me go, I swear I'll go knockin' on everybody's door one by one and tell them right now! Jet: So, this is how you're going to play it, huh? Blackmail? Keith: Well, you losers played the Betrayal card on me. I'm just giving you your just desserts. Haruka: If you think we're going to allow you to continue as part of our team, you're out of your mind. Keith: Is that the way you feel? How about I go across the hall and talk to James and Trunks? I'm sure they'd be glad to hear about this alliance. Tally: Look, we're willing to cooperate. Jet: Speak for yourself! Tally: (to Jet) Jet, please! (to Keith) We don't want everyone knowing about this alliance just yet. Please don't tell anyone! Keith: Well, you'd better keep me in the alliance then. Tally: Done. Keith: And make me the leader of this here alliance too. Jet: What? You can't demand that! Haruka: I don't think you have the qualifications to fill that position. Tally: Done. Jet: Tally, are you nuts? Keith: Good. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got some packing to do. Keith heads over to the drawers to start pulling his folded clothes out. Jet seems to be sending a menacing glare Tally's way as she slumps in her seat. Tally: (CC) Why didn't I see this coming? I knew Keith was going to betray us... I just didn't think it would be so soon. Jet: (CC) I don't see why Tally's so scared of Keith. I can take him if I wanted to! Keith: (CC) Ha! I've turned the tables on those three! Now all I have to do is get a few more loyal supporters and this game's in the bag! ====== As the midnight hour, Tokyo Standard Time, approaches, bags are being loaded into Franken, who will take them part of the way there. Amy R.: (yawns) At least we'll still get some time to sleep. Rini: Only until the first changeover. We'll be up and changing Trailmon before the sun even comes up. Finally, with everyone and their bags on board, Franken departs the station at Hamburger Village. ====== Day Twenty After an overnight and a early morning transfer, the group are now on board Worm, en route to Flame Terminal just as lunch time approaches. But Whitney seems to be more concerned about her standing in the game rather than what awaits them at the campsite. Whitney: (CC) I did some calculations last night, and in terms of total money earned per person... I'm dead last. Whitney is seen discussing the matter with her roommate challenge partner, Nabiki. Nabiki: I'd hate to be in your position. We've been here three weeks and that's all you have? Whitney: Yep. I knew this was going to be tough... just not this tough. Nabiki: Yeah. Whitney: (CC) I think the reason that I'm at the bottom of the charts is that I've been subjected to a bit of bad luck. Flashback brief scenes of Whitney guiding her team in circles in the Supply Hunt challenge (Ep 1), letting go of the rings in the stretching challenge (Ep 2), being disqualified after her partner Trowa dropped a Gabumon caricature (Ep 3), hitting Kirby too much and sending him flying off the course in VR golf (Ep 6), having to ride last-place Mole in the Trailmon race (Ep 7), and having been separated from Nabiki towards the end of the Autumn Fair challenge (Ep 8). Whitney: (CC) Now that I think of it, after all of that bad luck, I've gotta have nothing but good luck left in me! Right? ====== Worm pulls into Flame Terminal, and the 16 Roomies disembark. Tenchi prepares to split them back up into two groups of eight, with half heading to the cabin and half to the campsite. Tenchi: As you know, we are going to resume the split living quarters deal. It's been decided that the top four athletes of each sex from the last challenge will live in the cabin, while the rest will be sent to the campsite. These will be the arrangements until the next challenge, whenever that turns out being. [New Living Arrangements: To cabin: Haruka, Jet, Keith, Rally, Tally, Trowa, Whitney, and Yusuke To camp: Amy M., Amy R., James, Nabiki, Rini, Takuya, Trunks, and Yugi] The groups separate, each carrying their belongings to their new living quarters... for the time being, at least. ====== After making the walk to the cabin, the 'winners' of the last challenge settle in. By settling in, we mean that they're dashing to mark their territory. Rally: (tossing her bags into a corner) That spot's mine! Yusuke: (running over to where the desk is) Don't anyone come over here! Keith: (plopping down his stuff near the kitchen) I've got this one! The rest of the group decides on their respective spots as well. Immediately, people make their own decisions as to what to do. Tally: Somebody slip in Digimon Frontier! Yusuke: No way! We're watching Dragonball Z! Rally: Put in Cowboy Bebop! That's a real show! Keith: How 'bout we just watch Gunsmith Cats? Rally: I'd rather not watch my own show. Tally: Especially when we can learn so much more about this world with Frontier! Haruka: We have chores to do, you four. Jet: Yeah. Things have to get done. Yusuke: The four of you can take care of that easily. Tally: They're right, guys. Work first, TV later. Groaning, Rally, Keith, and Yusuke get up and start doing chores with the others. ====== Meanwhile, the other group has arrived at the campsite. They don't have as much trouble picking tentmates as they quickly get to work on getting the camp back to a livable condition. Yugi: (starting to head out) I'm going out to get some firewood. Takuya: (finding the apple basket) Wait... I'll come with you! As Yugi and Takuya depart, the two Sailor Scouts get to work and start to prepare dinner. Amy M.: (searching one of the crates) I hope the food in here's still edible. Rini: I'm sure we can make it edible, Amy! ====== Yugi and Takuya have made their way out of camp. As Takuya glances above him and into the trees to look for meat apples, Yugi gazes downward to search for firewood. Suddenly, Yugi comes to a stop. Takuya notices this out of the corner of his eye and stops as well. Takuya: (growing serious) Is something wrong? Yugi: (after a moment of silence) I'm not sure. I sense something. Takuya: An evil Digimon? Yugi: Maybe... but I can't be quite sure. Takuya reaches into his pocket and pulls out his D-Tector. Takuya: No worries... I can digivolve into Agunimon if I need to. Yugi: I guess you're right. Takuya: (smiles) Of course I'm right! Now... how about resuming our search for food and wood? The two resume walking down the path, just missing two pairs of glowing, red eyes watching them from some nearby bushes. ****** It doesn't take Yugi and Takuya long to return full-handed, to the elation of their peers. Nabiki: At least we now have something to eat beside instant noodles! James: Hey! I was looking forward to instant noodles! Takuya: (dumping the apples onto the ground) Well, now you can look forward to a few delicious meat apples! Yugi gently places the pile of firewood in his hands on the ground. Yugi: Is this enough? Amy M.: Yes. Thank you, Yugi. Takuya: Hey, don't I get any thanks for helping too? Amy M.: (giggles) Thank you too, Takuya. Trunks: At least with the meat apples, I can eat as much as I want. Amy R.: You'd better leave some for me! Suddenly, the group hears some rustling in the bushes. It instantly makes them nervous on edge. Trunks: Don't tell me that we've got another wild Digimon to deal with. Trunks got his answer when two Digimon, one spider-like and the other a short Grim Reaper-type, hop out of the bushes. Amy R.: Why can't you just keep your big mouth shut? Takuya takes out his D-Tector and points it to the two Digimon. Takuya: Let's see... Infermon... and Phantomon. According to my D-Tectors, they're both ultimates. James: Ultimates? (smiles) Maybe it's time I capture one of these for the boss. Nabiki: I'd be inclined to agree with you... except for the fact that they both look creepy! Takuya: This is no time to be thinking about catching them! We need to get rid of them before they cause any damage! Amy M.: Nabiki, get the others out of here. Takuya and Trunks can take care of them. Amy R.: Are you nuts? Nabiki: But what about you? Amy M.: I know what I'm doing! Get the others into the tents! Nabiki: (grabbing James by the arm) Stop looking like an idiot and help me! Nabiki and James guides Amy R., Rini, and Yugi out of harm's way and towards the tents. Infermon and Phantomon decide to not pay attention to them for now and focus on the threesome in front of them. Phantomon: Your end has come! Infermon: It's time to be deleted! Trunks: I don't think so. I'm taking you down! Takuya: (holding up his D-Tector) And so am I! The two boys studied their opponents carefully, not paying attention to Amy M., who's sneaking away to find a place to transform into Sailor Mercury. Trunks: That spider looks like the tougher of the two. I'll take him. Takuya: How do you take him? I can change into a Digimon, remember? I'm more likely to beat him than you are! Trunks: I can beat them with both hands tied behind my back! Takuya: So can I! Infermon: Enough! It's time to end your pathetic lives! Phantomon: Now... meet your maker! Infermon: Spider Shooter! Infermon shoots a web out at Takuya and Trunks, who leap out of harm's way in opposite direction. He turns to go after Trunks, while Phantomon swings his scythe towards Takuya. Phantomon: Shadow Scythe! Takuya: (avoiding a near miss) Darn it, you're supposed to wait until I evolve! Phantomon: Shadow Scythe! Takuya dodges this one too, although this one was closer than the first. Takuya: A little help here, Trunks! Trunks: I'm kinda busy! Infermon: Spider Shooter! Trunks backflips onto Infermon's back. Once there, he starts to beat the living daylights out of the Digimon. But it doesn't seem to affect the insect, as he tosses and turns to attempt to knock Trunks off of his back. But it's Sailor Mercury to the rescue, as she steps in to lend a hand. Mercury: Mercury Bubble Blast! The area instantly fogs up, hindering Infermon and Phantomon's visibility. Unfortunately, it was doing the same to Trunks and Takuya. Trunks: I can't see... whoa! As a result of being unable to see a place on Infermon to grab onto, Trunks was thrown off. Infermon, meanwhile, was about to resort to drastic measures. Infermon: Network Grenade! Firing it in a certain direction, the grenade deletes a good chunk of the campsite. It had also been fired near Sailor Mercury, who didn't see it coming. Luckily, she was far enough away to avoid deletion, but the blast knocked her back. ====== Although unaware of the battle at the campsite, the group that was staying at the cabin became aware when the ground beneath them began to shake. Rally: What now? An earthquake? Jet: (looking at Tally) Can earthquakes happen in the Digital World? Tally: I'm not sure. It's never been a focus of my research. Yusuke: (grimly) I think this is more serious than a simple earthquake. Suddenly, the ground stopped shaking beneath them. There was very minimal damage, if any, except for a few rattled nerves and a drawer of pots and pans in the kitchen that had spilled open. Yusuke: (clenching his fist) The evil spirit... it's here! Yusuke pulled open the front door and ran out, heading towards the camp. Keith: Where does he think he's going? Trowa: And what does he mean by evil spirit? Whitney runs over to her bag and pulls out Milty's Pokéball from it. Jet: Whitney, what are you doing? Whitney: What do you think? I'm going after him! Keith: Why? I'm sure those guys at the campsite can handle themselves. Haruka: It's her choice to decide... though I strongly recommend against it. Tally: Don't do this, Whitney! Yusuke can handle things. You don't have to decide to go through with this! It's not our business! Whitney: We have no choice! We have to make this our business! She then ran out of the cabin before anyone could stop her. Rally motioned to go after her now, but Jet put a hand on her shoulder and stopped her. Jet: Don't, Rally. I need you here to help me keep this place secure, just in case we get a few evil Digimon to fight as well. Rally: Fine... (holding up her 'toy' gun) I dare just one Digimon to attack us! ====== Takuya: Execute... Spirit Evolution! Using the opportunity to transform before the fog bank could lift, Takuya evolved into Agunimon. Agunimon: Agunimon! The first thing Agunimon did as soon as the fog had disappeared was go after Phantomon. Agunimon: Take this, you creep! Pyro Darts! The darts hit their mark, managing to phase Phantomon quite a bit. Phantomon: Oh yeah? Shadow Scythe! Agunimon leaped out of the way of Phantomon's swinging scythe. He then reached in and decked Phantomon with a fist to the face. Meanwhile, Trunks had engaged Infermon in combat once again. Trunks moved at top speed, landing punch after punch into Infermon's head. But when Infermon started picking up speed, he was able to begin dodging punches. It eventually got to the point where Trunks was missing every single time. Trunks: Stand still! Infermon: Why don't you? Spider Shooter! Trunks didn't see it coming, as he is encased in a sticky web and pinned to the ground. He struggles to get out, but it's no use as Infermon gets into position to finish him off. Infermon: Prepare to be deleted. Trunks: (smiles) I'm not done yet. In an instant, Trunks powers up to Super Saiyan and instantly breaks the web. Infermon: What? Before the spider Digimon knew it, Trunks hit him with a roundhouse kick, sending Infermon flying several feet and landing on his back. Trunks: (pumping his fist excitedly) Yeah! I've got you now! Agunimon: Pyro Tornado! Before Phantomon knew it, Agunimon had encased him in a fire-spewing tornado, enough to severely weaken him. The tornado picked Phantomon up and deposited him right next to the disabled Infermon. Infermon: Get me up, you fool! Phantomon: Oh, yes sir. But before Phantomon could do so, a bright beam of energy began to form around Trunks. He was charging up for the Kamehameha wave. Trunks: I wouldn't do that if I were you. Agunimon: (grabs Phantomon and shakes him) Just who are you working for? WHO? Evil Spirit: (coming from off-screen) You will never stand a chance against a power this strong! These Digimon are way too powerful for you to defeat! Trunks and Agunimon turned left and right, attempting to find the source of the voice. But to their surprise, they found it coming from... Sailor Mercury! It was also a shock to Yugi, who had come out of the tent he and the others were hiding in. Nabiki: (sticking her head out) Yugi, get back in here before you get yourself killed! Yugi: It's him! It's gotta be! (activating his Millennium Puzzle) Yu-Gi-Oh! In an instant, and to everyone in the tent's surprise, Yugi changed into Yami, an ancient pharoah from long ago. But except for his seemingly more dark demeanor, he didn't look any different than Yugi. Amy R.: This is unlike anything I've ever imagined! Rini: How did he do that? James: I don't know... and I don't think I want to know! Sailor Mercury turns around and looks at Yugi, smiling evilly. Agunimon and Trunks look on with caution, keeping one eye on Mercury and the other on Infermon and Phantomon. Mercury: (in the spirit's voice) Glad you could join us, pharoah! Yugi: Marik! What are you doing here? Agunimon: Marik? Yugi, that's Sailor Mercury! Trunks: What's going on here? Yugi: Marik's an evil sorceror. He's speaking to us using the Millennium Rod and is using her as a temporary body. Mercury/Marik: I want that Millennium Puzzle! Yugi: (grabbing onto the Puzzle) You'll never get your hands on it. Mercury/Marik: And who do you think's gonna stop me? Trunks comes flying in, about to land a sucker punch onto Mercury's left cheek. But at the last moment, Agunimon leaps in and shoulder tackles Trunks out of the way. Trunks does a full flip in mid-air before regaining control of his body. Trunks: What did you do that for? Agunimon: We can just attack Sailor Mercury like that! Mercury/Marik: Oh, yes you can! Of course, you won't be hurting me. You'll be hurting this poor innocent girl. But this can all be avoided, if Yugi will just give me the Millennium Puzzle! Yugi: Never! Never in a million years! Suddenly, Yusuke runs onto the scene. He is unaware of the situation, but Marik changes that really quickly. Mercury/Marik: Mercury Ice Storm Blast! Sailor Mercury launches an ice attack right at Yusuke. He sees it coming and runs out of harm's way, but glances back to see the area he was just standing on become completely frozen. Yusuke: (stopping next to Yugi) Alright, I thought she was on our side! What is she doing? Yugi: She's been taken over by Marik. Yusuke: A demon? Yugi: No, a sorceror. And a very powerful one at that. Mercury/Marik: Very powerful indeed. Now, Yugi Mutou, I challenge you to a duel! Yusuke: A duel? You mean you're going to fight her... uh, him... er, whatever the hell this guy is? Yugi: He wants to duel me using Duel Monsters cards. (smiles as he looks at Mercury) The problem is, Sailor Mercury has never played the game. And she does not have a dueling deck at all. Mercury/Marik: (smirks evilly) But I know someone who does! ====== At the cabin, things have been rather quiet since Yusuke and Whitney left. Rally and Jet are on guard out front, while the others wait nervously for good news. Tally: It's quiet... too quiet. Haruka: That might be a good thing. Keith: This is lame. I'm going to watch one of the DVDs. Keith headed over to the TV, but then stopped short as he began to glow a bluish hue. Keith: What the... Suddenly, Keith begins to scream at the top of his lungs while holding his head. Tally: (as Rally and Jet run in) Keith! Rally: What happened? What's wrong with Keith? Keith: No... you'll never do that to me again! Jet: Do what? Keith, what's going on? Keith: Someone... someone's in my head! Rally: In his head? Trowa: There must be someone or something attacking his mind. ====== Mercury/Marik: (laughing) It won't be long now, pharoah! Soon my other mind slave will be here, and then it will be the end for you! Ha ha ha! Yugi, Yusuke, Agunimon, and Trunks stood there, unable to think of anything to do to stop this evil entity that had taken over their friend Sailor Mercury. ========================= End Episode Nine ========================= Tenchi: (VO) On the next episode of Roomies... Mercury/Marik: That Millennium Puzzle will be mine! Yugi: We have to stop him without hurting her! Tenchi: (VO) The Roomies try to get rid of their unwelcome guest... Yusuke: I don't care who you are! You just better be ready to eat my fist! Agunimon: Time to take this to the next level! Infermon: (spitting out Spider Shooter) Forget about us? Tenchi: (VO) But the day may be saved by an unexpected source... Whitney: How are you going to help us? Yugi: We must have faith if we are to win the day. Mercury/Marik: Faith won't be enough to stop me! Tenchi: (VO) But when the ordeal is over, who will be able to pick themselves up again? James is snoring peacefully on the ground as Amy Rose quietly fumes in front of him. Trunks: (winces) That looked like it hurt. Tenchi: (VO) And to fool or not to fool... three in a row wins the next challenge... Nabiki: Is that with or without ketchup? Takuya: (holding his head) Why do you always give me the hard ones? James: I disagree! Tenchi: (VO) It's all on the next installment of Roomies: Digital Frontier! Trowa: I'm sure if he were here, he'd give this game five stars. ==================== Additional Author's Notes ==================== It's been another month since the last episode, and basically, the rate at which I'm writing this fanfic is pathetic. I'm physically and mentally struggling, and it's a whole lot harder when so many things push and pull at me in real life and I'm getting no ideas to use in the episodes. I'm hoping that now that spring semester is finally over, I can resume weekly postings and get this season done and over with as soon as possible. I have thought of upping the number of double-length episodes from four to six (the one you are reading was the second), but haven't committed to it yet. I really need to find a way to get this done within the next month and a half. Now, onto the actual notes... The roller coaster used in this episode's challenge is actually modeled, piece for piece, from a coaster I constructed in the PC game 'Rollercoaster Tycoon.' It's a game that I love to play from time to time. I know, some of you are asking why I don't you use the sequel 'Rollercoaster Tycoon 2' instead, since it might have better features? Well, I would if I had it. Being a college student means my budget is very tight, so I can't really put aside money to buy a game. Even if it is only thirty bucks. The island full of ShadowToyAgumon is based off of the one used in the Frontier episode "Island of Misfit Boys," which is the seventh of the season. That makes three challenges in a row based off of the series, huh? All of the rides, though, were created from my mind with the help of 'Rollercoaster Tycoon.' Last week, Fetch e-mailed all of the reality fanfic writers to a page where you could look up birthdays of anime characters. A very ingenious tool, and I would've never known such a site existed. Unfortunately, none of the 16 Roomies' birthdays fall during the taping of this season. Three Roomies do have someone they know, though, that does have a birthday during the taping. The first is Joey Wheeler, who competed in Roomies last season. For those of you who don't know, Joey's birthday is January 25th. That brings up logistical issues though, because Joey was in Okayama during the taping of last season's show during his birthday. Last season, it fell on Day 5 of the competition, as opposed to Day 19 this year. But because of the hassle it would take to make a correction and the fact that I didn't know about Joey's b-day, we'll forget about it. Infermon and Phantomon are Digimon from previous seasons of the show. The Infermon used is the one from Tamers, which was confronted by Beezlemon. Phantomon is used from the first season of Adventure, based off the one that kept numerous Odaiba citizens hostage, including former Roomies competitor and temp-host, Mimi Tachikawa. Because of the time between the last episode and this one, I do not remember who was originally behind the attacking Digimon. For convenience, I just decided to use Marik... I think someone left a review suggesting that the person was indeed Marik. It is now, but trust me, it wasn't going to be originally. I was originally going to finish the whole 'Digimon attack' this episode, but I just ran out of time and patience. It'll finish by the end of the first third of the next episode. ========================= Next Episode ========================= Hopefully I will resume weekly postings with a new episode Tuesday. The second uncut session and Episode 10 will both be released next week. Also, I plan to end the voting for the Final Four soon, provided I remain on schedule. Stay tuned for details... and if you haven't voted, vote now!