"Roomies 3: Digital Frontier," written by Freedom Fighter Well, this is the moment we've all been waiting for! The season finale of the third installment of the Roomies series. Who will win? You have to read on to find out. 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) - Tally, working with partner Riley as they boot up the Juggernaut program - Yugi, putting together the Millennium Puzzle - Amy M., studying for high school entrance exams with her friends - Rally, driving her Shelby GT down the highway at more than 120 mph - Yusuke, facing off against the three-eyed demon Hiei - James, being swindled by the Magikarp seller - Takuya, diving out of the way of a truck that spins to avoid hitting him - Keith, observing a duel between Yugi and Kaiba atop Pegasus's castle - Rini, chatting with her own Moon kingdom kitty, Diana - Amy R., freeing her idol Sonic from a cage upon the Death Egg - Jet, piloting the Bebop as Spike looks on from the side - Nabiki, standing in front of the Anything-Goes Martial Arts dojo - Trunks, practicing how to fuse with Goten - Trowa, slipping on his circus costume - Whitney, ordering Milty to roll down and back up a hill - Haruka, showing the dilapidated Hinata Summer House to the Hina crew (Show scenes of Keith walking to Salt Lake City, Haruka in a giant Bowser suit, Takuya sitting in a square, and Amy M. carrying a tent building kit.) 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 18 - Somewhere I Belong (07.01.03) Day Thirty-Seven [Prize Challenge 5: Crossdress! Cosplay!] A crowd of Digimon is gathered as Tenchi comes out to start the show. Backstage, all the Roomies, in costume, wait nervously for their turns. Tenchi: Good afternoon everyone! Welcome to "Crossdress! Cosplay!" Today, sixteen anime characters have dressed up as characters of the opposite sex. They will be judged on how well they resemble that character, both in looks and in actions. The male and female that does this the best will walk away with a 2003 Honda Civic! The Digimon aren't sure what that is, but they politely applaud anyway. Tenchi: Before we begin, we need to introduce the four human judges who will determine who the winners will be. We'll start at the far end with our youngest judge. This young lady definitely knows a lot about fashion. She's former Roomie Tomoyo Daidouji, of 'Cardcaptor Sakura!' Tomoyo smiles happily and waves to the screen. She's dressed in her school's black winter uniform. Tenchi: This next guy may not be fashion conscious, but he looks good in whatever he wears! From 'The Big O,' another former Roomie, Roger Smith! Roger, wearing his black tuxedo and sunglasses over his face, just nods. Tenchi: Our next judge has seen a lot of bad things in his time, so maybe being here might cheer him up. An otaku from 'Neon Genesis Evangelion,' here's Kensuke Aida! Kensuke whoops and hollers all over the place, excited to be in a more cheerful anime series. He's wearing an Oxford white short sleeve shirt and blue slacks. Tenchi: And last, but certainly not least, we've got another otaku from the future... but at least this one DOES pilot a mobile suit! Here's Hikaru Amano, of 'Martian Successor Nadesico!' Hikaru goes crazy over all of the cute Digimon around, and nearly jumps out of her seat go down and hug them. She would have, if not for Kensuke pulling her back. Hikaru is dressed in her orange NERGAL uniform. Tenchi: (laughs) Looks like the four of you are ready. Hikaru: (happily) Ready and able! Bring on the cosplayers! Kensuke: (staring at Hikaru's chest) Yeah... what she said. Roger: (shakes his head) Let's just get this over with. Tomoyo: (starry-eyed) So many costumes! I just wish Sakura was here to share this with me! Tenchi: Okay, we're ready to go! Will the first two Roomies step out, please? Since we are going from shortest to tallest by sex, we start with Rini and Trunks. They come out as their names are called. Tenchi: Rini Tsukino of 'Sailor Moon' is dressed as Manta Omayada of 'Shaman King,' while Trunks Briefs of 'Dragonball Z' is portraying Ryoko of 'Tenchi Muyo.' Rini takes out a dictionary and starts flipping through it in a hurry. Once she found the page she was looking for, she started acting wildy. Rini: Let's see... shaman, noun. In animistic religions, a person who communicates with, or is possessed by, gods, spirits, and the dead. (freaking out) What? How can you do that? You can actually talk to ghosts? No way! Trunks: (sweetly) I'm a demon, sort of. I can control spirits to an extent, if that's what you're talking about. Rini: (CC) While we were getting ready, we were told that whomever we were partnered off of, we'd have to act off of them. Trunks: (CC) This added element made it tough on me, because I could barely do my character, much less play off another. In terms of costume, Rini definitely looked like Manta, minus the freaky persona that he usually has. Trunks, on the other hand, didn't look comfortable dressed in a skimpy kimono, and didn't show anywhere near the sensuality he was supposed to. Tenchi: Next, we have Amy Rose of 'Sonic Adventure' as Goten Sonn of 'Dragonball Z' and Takuya Kanbara as Princess Sasami of 'Tenchi Muyo.' Amy R.: (hyper) Really? You're a princess? I've always wanted to see a princess! Do they really were a small crown and have servants do stuff for them? Takuya: (tries to giggle cutely, but fails) It's not like that, really! I have fun, doing all the things girls my age do! Amy is dressed in some fighting clothes, as she demonstrates some basic fighting motions and stances. Takuya twirls around and plays with a Ryo-ohki plush doll. Tenchi: Now up, we have Amy Mizuno, playing Ken Ichijouji of 'Digimon Adventure,' and Yugi Mutou as Rockna Hiragi of 'Mon Colle Knights.' Amy M.: So many bad things have happened to me. I don't know why you trust me so much after everything I've done! After all the Digimon I hurt! Yugi: As long as you admit that you've done something wrong and you're willing to apologize for it, I think you're as good as anyone. Although Amy has the personality down, she doesn't seem to be working the Digimon Emperor that she decided to use. Yugi looked rather playful and open... probably a little too much for Rockna's taste. His hair wasn't working for him, either. Tenchi: Our next pairing features Whitney Emerson dressed as Roger Smith of 'The Big O' and Yusuke Urameshi as Motoko Aoyama of 'Love Hina.' Whitney: (CC) Of all the people I had to be paired up with, it had to be Yusuke, didn't it? Yusuke: (CC) I don't like this challenge, I don't like dressing up like a girl, and I don't like doing it in front of Whitney! Whitney: So what's this? You've come to attack me, I see. Yusuke: (raising his sword over his head) Secret Arts Wind Technique Splitting Sword! The wooden sword comes down and Yusuke stops it just inches from Whitney's head. Whitney didn't look happy about it, whether the move was intentional or not. The scared look on Whitney's face didn't do much to impress the judge she was dressed up as, while Yusuke's determination to do his role was actually scary. Tenchi: Our fifth pairing features Nabiki Tendo as Shinji Ikari of 'Neon Genesis Evangelion' and Trowa Barton as Melfina of 'Outlaw Star.' Nabiki: (points at Trowa) It's you... you... you're the one! You're working for them, aren't you? Trowa: What are you talking about? I've never even seen you in my entire life! Nabiki prances around in a male plugsuit, making her moans of uncomfortableness rather obvious. Meanwhile, Trowa looks as if he could pass off as Melfina's body double, carrying that pleasant smile of hers. Tenchi: Here's Tally Onodera, portraying Quatre Raberba Winner from 'Gundam Wing,' with James Morgan dressed as Sakura Kinomoto from 'Cardcaptor Sakura.' Tally: Pleased to meet you. But may I ask as to why you are dressed this way? James: My friend likes to dress me up while I'm capturing Clow Cards. Cute, isn't it? Tally seems to be pleased playing the role of Quatre, looking just as shy and refined as the Gundam pilot himself. But James seems to be overjoyed at playing a little girl and being dress in the most decorative outfit of the group. Tenchi: Next up, we have Haruka Urashima as Professor Elm of 'Pokémon' and Keith Howard as Nami Asagi of 'Digimon Tamers.' Haruka: So, you interact with grade schoolers too? I bet if so many kids didn't aspire to be Pokémon trainers, they'd all be coming your way! Keith: Are you kidding? I'm glad that you're doing your job! That means less kids for me to take care of! Sheesh... I only took this job just to look good. Haruka doesn't have to do much to pull off the professor look, though from some angles she just looks like herself with glasses. Keith, meanwhile, can barely keep his balance while wearing heels and a skirt... plus, his hairy legs don't help him either. Tenchi: And here's our final pairing, Rally Vincent as Vash the Stampede from 'Trigun' and Jet Black as Rain Mikamura of 'Mobile Fighter G-Gundam.' Rally: Stay away from me! You're in danger if you stick with me! Nothing but trouble follows me... you've got to trust me! Jet: But... but I want to help you! I'm a professional doctor, so I can help you deal with your problems. Rally closely resembles Vash the Stampede... if only she had time to make her skin lighter to match color tones. Meanwhile, Jet is also struggling, as except in terms of dress, he looks nothing like Rain. Tenchi: One last time, let's bring out all of competitors! All sixteen of the contestants come out and line up on stage, shortest towards the center, with the females on the left and the males on the right. Once they are all on stage, they get a decent round of applause from the judges and the Digimon in the audience. Tenchi: Now, it's time to hear what the judges have to say about each of our cosplayers. We'll start with the ladies... what do you have to say about Rini? Tomoyo: I like how you look, Rini. The only problem is that I didn't quite feel the personality. You didn't capture the wild and freaky personality that Manta is known for having. Tenchi: How about Amy Rose? Kensuke: You got the cute part down, no doubt! If this contest were just based on that, you'd win. But you also didn't get down the personality. You're right about him being hyper for a little kid, but you didn't capture his essence. I'm disappointed. Tenchi: Miss Amy Mizuno? How did she do? Hikaru: Quite the opposite, I say! You spent a lot of time getting down Ken's persona, which is great, but you needed the total package! The costume just didn't work for me... you should have chosen him in his school uniform. It's much cuter! Tenchi: Onto Whitney here. Roger: I do not act anything like you! I'm surprised and shocked by your performance! Plus, you looked scared when that guy dressed as Motoko tried to hit with that stick. There's only one word for your showing... pathetic! Whitney: (CC) Hey! I followed his personality to the letter! He should've scored me higher! Tenchi: (cringes) Ouch... did Nabiki do any better? Kensuke: I'm not as mean as Roger. I'd never be as mean as him. But in terms of sentiment, I'd have to use the same argument for you. Picking Shinji was not a good fit, for you look uncomfortable in that plugsuit. What made you choose him anyway? (shakes his head) At least Shinji is lucky to have a girl portray him. Tenchi: Okay Tally, it's your turn! Judges? Tomoyo: You look like Quatre and you sounded like him! Great job! The only thing I have to say is that you didn't have any emotion in your performance. Other than that, I liked it! You'd make a great cosplayer! Tenchi: Haruka... let's see what the judges thought of you. Roger: You didn't pull off the professor look, but you did get his personality. It's great that you know a lot about Professor Elm's job, but you came out here looking like... well, you, except that you're wearing glasses and a lab coat. It's not as good as I expected. Tenchi: And finally, Rally. Hikaru: I loved you! From the moment you stepped out, you had me thinking that you were Vash the Stampede! I don't know what more to say... I just loved you! Tenchi: Well, we've got a mixed bag among our female performers, but did the guys do any better? Let's start with Trunks. Roger: (shakes his head) Why did I even agree to the judge this? Except for a few of you, you all sucked! You, especially! How could you pull off a character as multi-dimensional as Ryoko? You expect to me to believe you're a space pirate? Well, you weren't anywhere close! Tenchi: Let's see if Takuya did any better. Hikaru: I hate to say it Tenchi, but none of your girls better have watched this, because they'd be disappointed. Takuya, I know you probably tried your best, and yes, Sasami is the cheery type, but I think you overdid it. I'm sure if you had spent some time getting into character, you'd have done much better. Takuya: (CC) I would've done better if I had a say in who I dressed up as! Tenchi: How about Yugi, judges? Kensuke: This Rockna girl that you're supposed to be... she's cute, right? Well, I saw anything other than cute. I saw a guy portraying a girl that was annoying and way too open. And even though I don't mind that in a girl, this girls not even a teenager yet! You got her all wrong, Yugi. Tenchi: Judges being tough on the guys. Tomoyo, does Yusuke change that? Tomoyo: Not completely, but he's the most in character thus far. But I saw that Yusuke was struggling with Motoko's feminine side. Although that side of her is very little, I'm surprised Yusuke didn't do anything to show it was there. Otherwise, he was stunning. Tenchi: How did Trowa do? Hikaru: Well, he's definitely got the casual, simple look that Melfina has. He didn't have the chippy, innocent sounding voice, though. That may be because that's not what you are, but I think you should have at least made an effort at trying it. Tenchi: James, it's your turn! Tomoyo: You're the only person I saw that looked as if you enjoyed this challenge. You're nowhere near as cute as Sakura-chan, but you pulled off the look and the personality. I'm impressed! Tenchi: Keith, let's see how you did. Kensuke: You know the expression 'I'm hot for teacher,' right? Guess what? I'm not hot for you! You're the ugliest female teacher I've ever seen! In fact, you're the ugliest guy to ever portray a female teacher! Enough said there! Tenchi: (sweatdrops) I hope we saved the best for last, so what's with Jet, judges? Roger: (glances at the other judges) How do I always get stuck with the ones that stunk? (to Jet) Jet, I've seen this woman named Rain before, and there's no way that anyone would ever mistake you for her! That's all I have to say! Tenchi: Wow... the judges were tough today. While they make their final decision, the competitors can step backstage to relax. As the four judges try to pick out the best cosplayers, or maybe the ones that didn't stink the most, several of the Roomies go off behind the curtain. Jet: That's got to be the worst performance ever! That's basically what he said! Haruka: His words for me weren't exactly flattering, either. Yusuke: How could he tell me that Motoko has a feminine side? She's all man as far as I'm concerned! Nabiki: It just shows that you should've studied her more. Me, I just wish I picked someone with a better costume. Meanwhile, off in the corner, Amy Mizuno seems disappointed with herself. Yugi seems to have noticed, as he walked over to talk to her. Yugi: Are you okay, Amy? Amy M.: I'll be fine. It's just... I just thought I'd be better than that! If only I had chosen a better costume. Yugi: It's not like anyone had a perfect performance. We were all nervous out there! Amy M.: It's not the same when you're someone like me, who always has to be at the top! Yugi consoled Amy, who was saddened by her less-than-stellar showing. ****** After ten minutes, the competitors, all still dressed in their costumes, came back out on stage, to the delight of the Digimon. The judges had made their decisions, and now it was time to announce the winners. It's worthy to note that almost everyone is either sad for doing so bad or angry for being bashed by the judges. But there can only be two winners, and we're about to find out who they are. Tenchi: It's taken some time, but the judges have finally chosen the winners. Hikaru and Tomoyo, will you please announce who you picked as the girls' winner? Tomoyo: I'm sure that most of you were nervous, and that left a lot of you with incomplete performances, either in terms of wardrobe or personality, and in some case, sadly, both. Hikaru: But only one of you managed to fool us enough to make us think you were actually the person you were portraying! Tomoyo: Therefore, we are pleased to award the prize to Miss Vash the Stampede, Rally Vincent! Rally walks over to the judges table, where she hugs Hikaru and Tomoyo, then shakes hands with Roger and Kensuke, while trying to avoid a ill-placed hand from the latter, before being given a small trophy by Hikaru. Tenchi: Roger and Kensuke, I know you guys weren't particularly impressed by the guys... but there has to be a guys' winner. Who is it? Kensuke: Are you sure we can't just choose another girl to win? Roger: (ignores Kensuke) I have to admit, I understand the guys' fears about dressing as girls, but there were too many of you who did that! It gave me a good idea of which sex is in control of this game. Kensuke: Anyway, like Tenchi said, we had to pick somebody. And we saw two viable candidates. But only one freaked us out so much that we had to give it to him. Roger: I'm the only one who disagreed... but majority rules, so the men's prize goes to the guy who dressed up as Sakura Kinomoto, James Morgan. James pumps his fists in the air as he quickly runs over and jumps onto the judges' table. He hugs the whole panel: Kensuke and Roger, who are instantly repulsed, Tomoyo, who just imagines Sakura doing the hugging, and Hikaru, who happily accepts the hug with open arms. Tenchi: Congratulations to both of our winners! Now, let's get to the trailers so we can get you out of those costumes! The Digimon audience cheers and applauds as the Roomies depart. The winners are last to exit, as Rally and James bow and receive a standing ovation. ====== After changing back to their regular clothes and hairstyles (but not hair colors for the majority that had it dyed for the challenge), the Roomies head back to the Trailmon to return back to the campsite. James: (cheerily) I can't believe I won! I didn't think it was possible! Yusuke: You don't have to rub it in, you know! (under his breath) I should've won that trophy! Tally: (patting Rally on the back) Great job, Rally! Rally: Yeah. But it's not like I got a great car or anything. I might just give it to Minnie-May or something. The cast boards the train and heads back, leaving the performance grounds. ====== Once back at Flame Terminal, the group splits in half depending on where they lived before the challenge. Because of the nature of the challenge, no one knew for sure who was moving where... if anyone was moving at all. The group that was living at the cabin returns... and finds a note attached to the door. Haruka pulls it off the door and reads it aloud. Haruka: To everyone in the cabin... please pack your things and move to the campsite. Only take the things that belong to you with you. James: Wait, do you mean everyone? Yusuke: Did she stutter? She said everyone! James: But... I won the challenge! I'm supposed to stay here! Keith: Just listen to the note, dweeb. It said everyone, including you! James: (CC) This isn't fair! I won the challenge, so why do I have to move? The group of eight begins packing for the move, though it does surprise them. Yugi: (CC) This doesn't make any sense. At the very least, James should be staying in the cabin. What's going on here? Yusuke: (CC) I don't like this at all! Somebody better start explainin'! ====== The other group was arriving back at the campsite, where they were getting a surprise of their own. Yes, there's a note on the water tank, but that's not the most surprising thing. Whitney: Hey... there are a lot more tents here than we left with. Takuya: Eight of them, to be exact. Whoa... you mean we all get our own tents now? Amy R.: I really hope so! That would be great! Tally: (heading for the note) Let's not get our hopes up just yet. Tally takes the note down and reads it aloud to the group. Tally: You've hit the homestretch, and now it's time to start planning for the final few days. To do so, all of you will now reside here at the campsite, two per tent, for the remainder of your stay here. Takuya: (CC) We find out that we're now stuck at camp for the last few days. That stinks, you know? Especially for me... I've been here more than a week and a half, and now I have to finish out the final five days here too? Whitney: (CC) I just realized what a mess I look like. I've only taken one shower in the last week and a half! That's torture! Rally: (sighs) And I was so looking forward to sleeping indoors again. Whitney: This is going to start ending up like Survivor, where we'll all try to stay away from each other because none of us will be able to shower for days! Amy M.: It's not going to be pleasant, but we'll have to deal with it. Tally: Come on... we'd better clean the place up before the guys get here. ====== When the group that had been living at the cabin arrives at the campsite, they too are told about the news. Rini: You mean we're stuck here for real? Yusuke: That bites. And just when I was looking forward to another night of DVD watching. Trunks: Forget it. I can only watch myself fight so many times before even that gets boring. Rally: Anyway, we'll be living together for the last five days, so everybody better learn to live in peace with each other. Yugi: We'd better if we're all going to get out of here. The eight new campers are assigned tents, and then several people are assigned to do normal camp duties. ====== Night Thirty-Seven Takuya: Why does this setting look so familiar? The sixteen Roomies are gathered around the fire for dinner, which tonight is being cooked by Jet and Rally. Trunks: We'd better not be going back to that whole rationing thing. Rini: You're not serious, are you? I'm hungry! Jet: Stop worrying, everyone! There's still plenty of food left to last the final few days. (scratches his head) I think. Rally: Relax. The supplies from the cabin were moved here a few hours ago, remember? We should be able to last without having to ration. Jet: Okay then... soup's on! Keith: Why are we having soup if there's several boxes of other stuff to eat? Tally: Because we're all too tired to prepare anything complicated. So shut up and eat, okay? Bowls of chicken and tomato soup are passed out for dinner, as the group gobbles it up with no problem at all. ====== Later that night, there's dirty dealings afoot already as Keith and Nabiki meet in some bushes away from the campsite. Keith: Now that everyone's here, we can implement Phase Three! Nabiki: So, who do I go after? Keith: (shrugs his shoulder) It doesn't matter. We just need a few patsies to cover our behinds. Just pick anyone who looks like a sitting duck! Nabiki: Okay. That's fine by me! This should be a piece of cake! ====== Day Thirty-Eight It's the following morning, and Keith and Nabiki are among those up early. True to their plan, they look for people to help vote for them. But Yusuke and Trunks are watching them, and they are already planning a counterstrategy. Trunks: Which one do we go after first? Yusuke: (looks around) Hmmm... Yusuke doesn't Keith around anywhere at the moment, but he does see Nabiki and Whitney talking behind the tents. Yusuke: Nabiki. With any luck, Keith will come running once we take care of her. Yusuke and Trunks head over in that direction, catching the end of the conversation between Nabiki and Whitney. Whitney: You, I'd work with in heartbeat. But not Keith. He's bad news. Nabiki: That's not good. He said that if you don't work with us both, then it's not worth working with you at all. Yusuke: Then I'd find someone else to have as an alliance partner, wouldn't I? The two women turn to see the eavesdroppers, Yusuke and Nabiki. Nabiki: This is a private conversation! Whitney: Just what do you two want anyway? Yusuke: I don't want anything with you, Whitney! It's Nabiki I'm concerned about! Trunks: We'd like to ask you to leave Nabiki with us. Whitney: What for? Yusuke: It's business, okay? Don't worry... I'm not gonna hurt her or do anything like that! Whitney: I don't trust you... Nabiki: (putting a hand on Whitney's shoulder) It's okay. I've got this. Whitney seemed to understand that, as she nodded and left the scene. Yusuke then glared at Nabiki before walking off to the forest. Trunks: We want to talk to you, but away from where everyone can hear us. Follow me. Trunks then headed off after Yusuke. Seeing no other choice, Nabiki followed them. ====== Once out of sight and hearing range, Yusuke and Trunks confronted Nabiki about her alliance with Keith. Yusuke: Okay, since I don't like you and I'm sure you don't like me, I'm gonna make this quick! Break off from Keith or Trunks and I'll take you both down! Nabiki: Why should I? I've got a sweet deal going with him! Yusuke: Heh. And you actually believe he'll follow through with his promise if he wins? Trunks: Keith's the bad guy here, Nabiki! It's not worth sticking by him! Nabiki: Well, he's the only person here willing to help me win this game! A lot of people have done nothing but put me down... especially you two! Yusuke: That's because you don't do anything to help us out! Trunks and I did all the work! Nabiki: You didn't say I had to do anything! Yusuke: That's not how a partnership works! We're all supposed to have equal parts! (scratches his head) Maybe you've been hanging around Whitney too long... that ditziness of hers is contagious. I'm just glad I haven't caught it yet. Nabiki: Leave Whitney out of this! Trunks: Yeah, Yusuke! Don't bring your hate for Whitney into this? Yusuke: Okay, whatever. But still, I thought someone as moneyhungry as you would have the brains to figure out that you had to help us! Nabiki: What is this about? You want me to drop Keith and then work with you two to take him out? Yusuke: Who told you to assume that I'm stupid like you? I just want you away from Keith! I don't care who you decide to team-up with after that, as long as it's not with me! Keith: (off-screen) Heh... that's why you'll lose this game, Urameshi! Yusuke: (turning around) Alright, Bandit Keith. You might as well come out here, since I could hear you snickering from a mile away! Keith came out of his hiding place behind a nearby tree and came over to Nabiki's side. The foursome then engaged in a staring match, mostly focused on Yusuke and Keith. Keith: Don't be talking to my alliance partner like that! Yusuke: And don't be filling her head with promises you don't intend to keep! ****** Keith and Yusuke continued to stare each other down as Nabiki and Trunks looked on with surefire tension. Nobody knew what was going to happen next. Keith: I'm the master of persuasion. No matter what you do, I'll get the votes I need to secure the win. And that means by any means necessary! Yusuke: Well, you'd better look somewhere else! I'm not voting for you, and neither is Trunks! Keith: (glancing at Trunks) Are you just speaking for the runt or does he have a mouth? Trunks: Who are you calling a runt? I could beat you up for that! Keith: You could, but do that and you'll be sent home without a shot at the money. Like you have a shot anyway. Nabiki: Keith... maybe you should stop while you're ahead. Keith: (turning towards Nabiki) Keep your trap shut, bitch! Nabiki: What? How dare you! Nabiki turns to leave, but Keith grabs a hold of her wrist and squeezes it tightly. Keith: I didn't say you could leave! But then Yusuke reaches over and grabs Keith's wrist, squeezing it even harder. Yusuke: I hate it when people pick on others that are weaker than them! Nabiki: Weaker? Yusuke: Will you shut up, Nabiki? I'm trying to help you, you know! Finally, Yusuke squeezes Keith's wrist hard enough that he's forced to let go of Nabiki's own wrist. Nabiki wriggles free and with her other hand, massages that area that connects her arm to her hand. Yusuke: Trunks! Get Nabiki out of here and back to camp! I'll deal with Keith myself! Trunks doesn't object, as he gestures for Nabiki to follow him. Nabiki hesitates at first, but she thinks better of it and leaves with the pint-sized Saiyan. Keith: Don't think of doing anything stupid! You've still got a cameraman behind you! Yusuke: It's okay, because all I want to do is this! Yusuke pushes Keith against a nearby tree and pins him against it with his only two arms. Keith: What the... ow! That hurt, you little... Yusuke: If it weren't for this stupid game, I'd whack you right now! But as things stand... all I'm going to do is say this. Your reign of terror is over! You're not going to pick on Nabiki or anyone else anymore! If you do... I'll make sure you're sorry you ever did so! Yusuke then releases Keith, who falls to the ground and goes to rub his sore arms. Yusuke: I'm not gonna tell you again! And trust me... I do keep my promises when it comes to getting rainchecks on beatings. He then headed back to camp, leaving Keith behind to mill things over. Keith: (CC) He should have finished me when he had the chance! I still have James on my side... and I'll have a few more before he even knew what hit him! ====== Yusuke returned to camp, where Whitney was busy preparing an ice pack for Nabiki's swollen wrist. Trunks was with them, just watching the whole thing. Nabiki: You didn't have to help me, you know. Yusuke stares at Nabiki and Whitney for about a minute, not saying anything at all. He then turns his head to look at Trunks. Yusuke: Come on, Trunks. We've got to go do some sparring. Trunks: Sparring? Yusuke: Yeah! Right now, that's the only way I can think! Now, let's go! Trunks gets up and departs with Yusuke, heading back to the old spot where they used to spar together. Nabiki: How do you like that? He didn't even say 'you're welcome!' Whitney: Leave him be. That's his attitude, and far be it from us to correct him. Not with a temper and fighting skills like that. ====== Elsewhere, Takuya and Tally were out collecting meat apples to help add to the supply that would last the remainder of their stay in the Digiworld. So far, their baskets were each half full, and they were looking to add more. Tally: (CC) We're getting down to the end, and now we'll see a lot of people begging others to vote for them. Well, we've got a strategy that doesn't involve that! Takuya: Campaigning? Like running for class president? Tally: Yeah, that sort of thing. We're just going to do it in an honest way. We'll advertise our strengths. You, for example, have saved us more than once as Agunimon. Takuya: Hey, you're right! And you've been one of the best when it comes to the challenges! Tally: Right! Showing off our strengths should be enough to put us over the top! Takuya: But how are we going to do that? Tally: First, we make some posters! And I'm sure Amy wouldn't mind lending us some tools. I bet she has some that we can borrow! Takuya: Good idea! I'll ask her when we get back! ====== Night Thirty-Eight That evening, Takuya and Tally are in one of the tents with Amy Mizuno. A lantern is lit as the three work on posters to advertise their strengths. Tally: You didn't have to work with us, Amy. It's not like we're forcing you to. Amy M.: Oh, it's quite alright. I just feel like working with you, that's all. Besides, you two have a great idea here! Takuya: It is a great idea, isn't it? Amy M.: Very much so! Tally: This idea of ours better work then. I don't know if we have many other options. Takuya: We'll be fine! I feel really good about this! This is our ticket to the finals! Tally: (CC) I don't know why I didn't think of this before! Amy and Takuya work so well together, it would be natural to have her part of our alliance! A little while later, Amy is outside while Takuya and Tally quietly discuss her. Tally: What do you think? We don't have to if you don't want to. I really don't care either way. But we all work so well together, it's just like we're made to be a threesome! Takuya: I would be okay with teaming up with Amy. She's probably the coolest girl here... other than you, of course. Tally: (laughs) No need to defend yourself. She's more your age anyway. Takuya: We're just friends, okay? And we shouldn't do this if all you're going to do is tease us! Tally: Okay, okay! I promise not to tease you two about it. They brought Amy back in and presented the offer to her. Amy M.: Really? You want me to be with you two? Tally: Only if you want to. We're against forcing you to do anything you wouldn't want to do. Takuya: It'll just be the three of us. We don't have to worry about other people or alliance messing us up! Amy M.: Actually... I have an alliance with Rini already. Tally: Rini? Hmmm... we might have to bring her in too. Takuya: Are you sure? She was directly involved with the whole AA mess-up. I don't know if she'd be willing to work with you. Tally: That's true. Amy M.: I can talk to her. There's no guarantees, of course, but I'll see what I can do. Takuya: You will? Oh, that's great! Amy departs to go find Rini while Tally and Takuya continue to work on their posters. A few minutes later, Amy returns with Rini in tow. Rini: Okay, I'm in! Tally: Really? Rini: (smiles) Yeah! I know you were just playing the game! I forgive you! Besides, I still want to be loyal to Amy, and if this is the only way, then so be it! Tally: Are you sure? If this seems forced, we shouldn't... Rini: I'm sure! I trust you two. Takuya: That's good to hear! So now we're a group of four! Amy M.: I just hope that'll hold up in the end. The foursome continue to burn the lantern oil away, as Rini too gets into the fun of creating posters. ====== Day Thirty-Nine Another day arrives, and with only four to go, people are starting to get downright lazy. Other than the mandatory cooking and chopping wood, nothing else is really getting down. And surprisingly, even Haruka isn't working, as she's in a friendly chat with Rally and Tally... the latter showing off her new poster. Off in one of the tents, Yugi and Trunks are engaged in a double Duel Monsters duel with Amy Rose and Rini. Rini's pink poster is off to the side of her, but in plain view as well. Meanwhile, Takuya seems to have caught Trowa and Whitney's attention with his ad poster, as they are both intrigued by how much hard work he put into it. The same goes for Amy Mizuno, who is being complimented by Jet on her handiwork. Even Yusuke, also glancing at the poster, is mightily impressed. One of the few people not relaxing is Nabiki, who is preparing lunch with James. James: How come we have to do the work? Nabiki: Because it's our turn. How many times do I have to tell you? James: I still don't like it! I say we go on strike! Nabiki: We? I don't mind cooking as long as I get to eat afterwards! Stop complaining and start spicing up these hot dogs! James: Sure thing, Jessie. Nabiki: Jessie? Who's Jessie? James: (freaks out) Oh, I meant Nabiki! Nabiki: That's better. About to say... we've been here for five weeks and you still haven't learned my name... James: (CC) I can't believe I called Jessie, Jessie! No, wait... I mean called Jessie, Nabiki. No, that's not right either! I'm so confused about Jessie! While James was having problems in terms of his withdrawal from Jessie, Keith was about to get revenge on Nabiki for what happened yesterday. Keith: Nabiki, we need to talk NOW! Nabiki: I have nothing more to say to you! I'm cooking lunch. Keith: When I give you an order, you're supposed to follow it! Nabiki: I'm not working for you anymore! I quit! Keith: You quit? Nabiki: I'll find some other way to get to the money. It's not worth the abuse you're giving me to go through you. Keith: Why you little... James: I believe she said no! Why don't you be a good little boy and go away? Keith: Little boy? By now, this scene had grabbed the attention of everyone in the campsite. Whitney: (running to Nabiki's side) Nabiki, are you alright? Yusuke: (going to confront Keith) Remember what I said yesterday, Bandit Keith? Looks like you're as stubborn as I am. Keith: So? What are you going to do about it? You gonna punch my lights out? Yusuke: No... but a few other people might. Trunks runs over and stands right by Yusuke's side. James and Whitney were already protecting Nabiki, and they were quickly joined by Trowa, Amy M., Rini, Tally, Takuya, and Yugi. Yugi: If you just think that you can push people around, then you're sadly mistaken! Keith: What? How can this be? You're telling me all of you are together? Whitney comes up and stands next to Yusuke proudly. Whitney: Some of us definitely don't see eye to eye. Yusuke: But we do have a respect for everyone here. And no matter how much we want to, we would never try to hurt someone. Whitney: What you did to Nabiki yesterday was wrong, and we won't stand for it! Amy M.: There are two ways of winning this game... the right way and the wrong way. And you've been doing it the wrong way the whole time! Haruka: (walking over) You'd better listen to them. They know what they're saying. Rally: (following Haruka) And if you try to hurt Nabiki in anyway, we'll all be by her side to help her! Amy Rose and Jet are the last two to come over, but they too share the same sentiment. Keith seems appalled at this development. Keith: I don't believe this! Yugi: Believe it. All of us together are much stronger than you are. So why don't you just give up trying to cheat your way to victory? Keith: (turns to run) I'll figure a way around this! You just wait! As Keith bolts out of camp, the group rejoices in celebration. Jet: Ha! Did you see him run? Yusuke: (smiles) He knows when he's beat. He won't bother anyone anymore. Nabiki: Thanks, everyone! I don't know what to say! Whitney: Just promise us that the next time you make a deal, make sure it's with someone you trust! Things pretty much going back to normal as everyone pledges their help to protect Nabiki from Keith. And speaking from Keith... Keith: (CC) They think they're so smart! Well, little do they realize that Nabiki's not the only person I can go after. You just wait... one way or another, I'm going to win that money! ****** After getting some time to cool down, Keith returns and immediately heads to his tent, which he is currently sharing with Jet. Most of the group is busy eating dinner, though a few of them have noticed his return. Haruka: I'm glad he's taken care of. Jet: I wouldn't count him out just yet. Rally: He'll try something else, I just know it! James: We'll just have to figure out how to stop him. Rally: We can't do anything until we makes a move. Jet: For his sake, he'd better not risk it. Not if he wants to get out of here alive. ====== Day Forty Another day passes, as the Roomies edge ever closer to the end. On this fateful morning, we see Amy M. and Gatomon out on their daily morning run. They're just returning to camp, where Guilmon is being fed breakfast by Jet. Amy M.: Good morning, Jet! Jet: Hello there, Amy! Out running again, I see. Amy M.: Yes. Gatomon has to stay in shape for whenever she has to battle Guilmon. Gatomon: (to Guilmon) You're not going to win by just stuffing your face. Guilmon: Really? I thought food gave Guilmon strength. Gatomon: Not if you eat too much of it. Jet: I hope she's in good enough shape. (pulls out a piece of paper from his pocket) This was on the water tank when I got up. Looks like it's time. Amy M.: Today's your last chance to earn some money before the final vote. Be at the challenge field at eleven with your Digimon in tow and ready to battle. Jet: (CC) The way things are around here, how strong your Digimon is will not be the only factor in who wins this final challenge. Amy M.: (CC) It's going to take a whole lot of cooperation and teamwork to pull out a win here. ====== The sixteen Roomies, Guilmon, and Gatomon are at the Challenge Field at eleven o'clock, where a small ring has been constructed for the battle. Tenchi is there to greet them. Tenchi: Good morning, everyone! Ready for your last challenge? (sees mostly everyone nod) Good. For starters, remember the teams that were constructed all the way back on Day 2? Well, get into them now. [Team Assignments: Yellow (Guilmon) - Tally, Haruka, Jet, Nabiki, James, Rally, Keith, Yusuke Red (Gatomon) - Takuya, Whitney, Amy M., Trunks, Rini, Amy R., Yugi, Trowa] Tenchi: This is your final physical challenge of the game. In fact, it's the final one, period. The rules are simple... your two Digimon, which you've raised well, hopefully, will fight each other. They may use any attacks they've learned. The match continues until one Digimon is knocked down for ten counts, gives up, or is dislodged from the ring. I have the right to stop the match if I feel it's dangerous for one or both Digimon to continue. The teams head into the position on opposite sides of the ring. Tenchi: The match will last a maximum of 30 minutes. If a winner is not decided by then, I will have the final say in naming the victor. Do you all understand? Takuya: Sounds simple enough. Tenchi: Okay. You can have a minute or so to strategize with your Digimon, and then we'll begin. ====== [Physical Challenge 8: Digimon Trainer Battle] Takuya: It's all you, Gatomon! Tally: You can beat 'em, Guilmon! Gatomon and Guilmon are in the ring, staring each other down and waiting for the signal to start. Off to the side, everyone looks on anxiously, not knowing what to expect. Keith seems to be uninterested at all, as he's away from his teammates. Tenchi: Let the match begin! Neither Digimon moved at first, wanting to watch what the other would do first. Trunks: Why doesn't Gatomon just attack? Yugi: She can't rush into things. She has to approach this carefully. Whitney: (whispering to Takuya) What do you think, captain? You're the one in charge here. Takuya: Just leave it to me! I've got the perfect strategy! (points straight ahead) Gatomon, let's get started! Charge towards Guilmon! Whitney: That's your strategy? Gatomon does as she's told, as she rushes towards her opponent. Jet: Bad move. Yusuke: You're really gonna get it now. Tally: Guilmon, go meet Gatomon halfway and give her a piece of your tail! James: You're kidding... right? The two Digimon met in the center of the ring. Guilmon swung his tail around, trying to take the floor out from underneath of Gatomon. Takuya: Gatomon, jump now! Gatomon jumps out of the way to avoid Guilmon's tail. Gatomon: Lightning Paw! With a quick strike, Gatomon delivers a big hit on Guilmon's big snout, knocking him back a little. Gatomon lands on one foot and then pushes forward, immediately going for another attack. Takuya: What's she doing now? Trunks: She's doing the move I taught her... the Paw Pounce! Gatomon gets in front of Guilmon, and before he could do anything, she leaps up and headbutts him in the chest hard. Amazingly, it's enough to send Guilmon to the ground. Yusuke: The hell? How can that mangy cat be that strong? Haruka: They've certainly improved her abilities by a wide margin. Rally: Tally, remember that we have the advantage in close-range combat! Tally: (nods) Right. Guilmon, Megaton Punch! Guilmon gets up and balls his fist up. He then rears it back as Gatomon starts charging towards him for another attack. Amy M.: Takuya! Takuya: I know, I know! Gatomon, dodge it! Gatomon tries to slow down so that she could successfully dodge the attack, but she couldn't do it in time. Guilmon's fist connects with Gatomon's fist as she's sent flying all the way to the edge of the ring... but not quite out. Nabiki: Yeah! That's it! Yusuke: That's what I'm talking about! Finish her, Guilmon! Tally: And hurry, before she gets up! Guilmon: (nods) Right. Rini: Gatomon! Get up! Amy R.: Yeah! You can do it! We believe in you! Gatomon is seen rising to her feet, battered but still strong enough to continue on. Tally: Another Megaton Punch! Guilmon: (rearing back his fist again) Here we go! Gatomon: (smirks) Not this time. Seeing Guilmon charging at an incredible speed, the Red team quickly scatters in hopes of avoiding being caught in the blast. Guilmon gets ready to strike, but at the last possible instant, Guilmon leaps high up into the air, avoiding it completely as the wave of punch energy flows out of the ring. Amy M.: That could've been the end of Gatomon! Takuya: (clenching his fist) Gatomon! Don't give up! Gatomon flies over Guilmon and lands behind him. Guilmon turns around to face her. Guilmon: You're pretty fast. Gatomon: You're not bad yourself. Shall we continue? Guilmon: (smiles) Yeah! This is fun! Yusuke: Wait a minute... Tally, why haven't you tried any of Guilmon's natural attacks? Nabiki: Because he hasn't learned them! Yusuke: Yes, he has! I made sure to that myself the other day! He can do them! Yusuke whispers the names of Guilmon's two natural attacks into his ears. Tally: But those both sound like long-range attacks. Yusuke: So? We need to mix it up! If we just do short-range attacks, she'll eventually catch on. Haruka: I agree. We need to make our attack pattern as unpredictable as we can. Tally: Right. (to Guilmon) Pyro Sphere! A red energy fireball formed in Guilmon's mouth, which was wide open as it developed. Guilmon: (as he fired) Pyro Sphere! The fireball flies towards Gatomon, who is stunned initially but is just barely able to dodge it. Tally: Headbutt, Guilmon! Guilmon flies in and headbutts Gatomon, sending her down to the ground. Amy M.: It looks like Guilmon's finally learned fire attacks. Takuya: Get up, Gatomon! You faced off against my fire blasts, so this should be nothing! Tenchi: (beginning to count) One! Two! Thr... Before Tenchi could get to three, Gatomon was back on her feet. Trowa: We need an attack that gives us control of the match. Whitney: But what? Takuya: I have just the one! (to Gatomon) Gatomon, use Cat's Eye Hypnotism! A pocketwatch suddenly materialized in Gatomon's left paw. She started walking towards Guilmon, swinging the watch back and forth. Yusuke: What are you waiting for? Attack! Rally: Wait! If he attacks, that'll just make it easier for Gatomon to hypnotize him! Tally: Whatever you do, Guilmon, don't look at the watch! Unfortunately, Guilmon couldn't resist watching the pocketwatch swing back and forth, back and forth, back and forth... Amy R.: Come on, Gatomon! Get him now! Rini: Yeah! He's wide open! Yugi: Wait! Guilmon's not completely under Gatomon's spell yet. Gatomon: You are getting sleepy. Very sleepy. When I count to three, you will fall asleep and not wake up again until I say the magic word! Guilmon: And what's the magic word? Gatomon: (smiles) Out. Okay, ready? Guilmon: (thumbs up) Ready! Gatomon stops swinging the watch and puts her paws on her hips. Gatomon: Hey! You're supposed to be hypnotized! Guilmon: (laughs) I guess you need some work! I just feel funny! Gatomon facefaults. Yusuke: Ha! So much for that idea! Whitney: We're not done yet, Yusuke! (to Takuya) What now? Takuya: Well... let's put it this way. Who else taught Gatomon something? Trunks: (scratches his head) I tried to teach her how to do a Kamehameha wave. Takuya: Okay, let's use that then! Trunks: Wait! I don't know if she perfected it or not! Takuya: Gatomon! Use the... uh, whatever that wave that Trunks uses! Gatomon gets up and nods, understanding completely. Gatomon: Here goes nothing. (brings the heels of her paws together) Ka... me... Jet: What's she doing now? Yusuke: A Kamehameha wave! Trunks must have taught her how to use it! Gatomon: Ha... me... Guilmon: You're saying funny words, Gatomon! Tally: I can't believe he doesn't... (yelling) Guilmon, get out of the way! Gatomon: HA! It was too late, as Gatomon's Kamehameha wave made its way towards Guilmon. It connected with its target, but instantly the wave shut off before it could do any serious damage. Rini: That's it? Trunks: (sighs) I told you that I wasn't sure if she was ready for it! Yusuke: Whew... we got lucky there. Man, I should've taught Guilmon the Spirit Gun. This would've been over already if he had that! Tally: Now, Guilmon! Megaton Punch! Guilmon rears back for another Megaton Punch. He also just misses again, as Gatomon dodges it. Takuya: Okay... any other ideas? Whitney: I taught Gatomon how to do a rollout attack just like Miltank. Takuya: That's powerful, right? Okay... let's use that! Whitney: She never got it strong enough to move Miltank! She won't be able to use it against Guilmon! Takuya: (ignoring Whitney) Gatomon, use rollout! Gatomon curled up into a ball and started rolling towards Guilmon. The dinosaur Digimon reached down and picked Gatomon off of the ground before she could even get started. He uncurls her and grabs her by the tail. Tally: Bora bora! Takuya: Crap! No! Whitney: I told you that she couldn't do it! Guilmon starts swinging Gatomon around and around. After a few revolutions, he lets go, sending Gatomon flying towards the edge of the ring. Rini/Amy R.: Gatomon! James: It's over! We win! Gatomon seems as if she's about to fly out of the ring, but suddenly she gets control of her descent and manages to land on her two feet, two feet away from the edge of the ring. Nabiki: (gasps) She's still in? Yusuke: How can she? I thought we had her! Gatomon is breathing heavily, exhausted, but she turns to face Guilmon again, ready for more. Amy M.: Gatomon's still in it! Takuya: But not for long! Please tell me someone has an idea! Yugi: Actually... I might have one. Whitney: Did you get a chance to practice it with Gatomon? Yugi: Only once. Takuya: (shakes his head) Oh no. We're not going with another untested attack. I may have done in twice, but I'm definitely not doing it thrice! Yugi: If it works, it could end the match for them! Takuya: And if doesn't, it could end it for us! Trowa: I say we try it. Yugi told me about this idea a few days ago. It's worth the risk. Takuya: (looks at the rest of the team) Anyone else not want to try to this? There's no response from the other teammates. Takuya sighs as he turns around to look at the battlefield. Takuya: Okay Yugi... what's this idea of yours? Tally: We need to strike before they come up with a counterstrike. Guilmon, a simple flying tackle to end it! Guilmon: (charges at Gatomon) It's time to end this, Gatomon! Yugi is seen whispering something to Gatomon, who nods and then smirks at Guilmon. Gatomon: It is time to end this... but you'll be the one down, not me! Yugi: This is it! This is for all the marbles! Takuya: Gatomon... I can't believe I'm saying this... Dark Magic Attack! Using the Dark Magician's signature move, as suggested by Yugi, a purple ball of energy formed in Gatomon's paws. She promptly fired it right at Guilmon, as it quickly became a beam that nearly matched the Kamehameha wave in power. But this beam showed no signs of slowing down, as it hits Guilmon, stops him dead in his tracks, and starts pushing him back towards the opposite end of the ring. Yusuke: What the? Guilmon, break through it! Jet: How are they doing that? Even Keith, who had kept to himself the whole time, finally had a reason to pay attention to the challenge. Keith: This has to be Yugi's doing! But how? The beam continued to push Guilmon, edged the Digimon closer and closer to the edge of the ring. Rally: We have to find a way to stop the wave. Otherwise, Guilmon'll be pushed out of the ring. Yusuke: Dang! And we can't go out there to help him! Shoot! Guilmon started pushing against the energy wave, as he was strong enough to avoid being blasted by it. He wasn't strong enough to push it away, though, as he felt the ground slipping beneath him. Guilmon: Uh oh. Gatomon: You're done, Guilmon! With no way out, no move to counter the attack, and no end in sight to Gatomon's power, Guilmon had no choice but be pushed out of the ring. Once he was out, the beam shot past, dissipating upon reaching the nearby cliffface overlooking Flame Terminal. Tenchi: Since Guilmon has fallen out of the ring, the Red team wins! The Red team celebrates, running into the ring and dogpiling onto Gatomon, so to speak. The Yellow team is disappointed, but for the most part, still upbeat. Yusuke: We did everything we could and it still wasn't enough? How? Tally: Maybe they had a better connection with Gatomon than we did with Guilmon. Who knows? Jet: So much for that $100,000. ====== Guilmon and Gatomon are seen recovering with a hearty lunch and plenty of rest, as they compliment each other on a great battle. Guilmon: How did you do that? Gatomon: You know, I'm not really sure. I think I just wanted to win more. Guilmon: Then I'd better be sure to want to win more next time. Gatomon: I can't wait for that next time. You're a great battler, Guilmon! Tenchi and the Roomies watch them from afar. Tenchi: Great work on training the Digimon, guys. But in the end, the Red team trained theirs a little better. So, they win the last challenge of the game. The Red team cheers again as they get congratulations from everyone on the Yellow team, except for Keith. Tenchi: Tomorrow's a very important day. Tomorrow night, we're here at 8 p.m. to vote for which four of you will get a chance to go for the money. If you think you have a valid chance and/or reason to be in that running, tonight and tomorrow are your last opportunities to let the others know of that. I'll see you all tomorrow. The group heads back to camp, leaving the Digimon in the capable hands of Tenchi. That, of course, is not before all of them leave their best wishes with Guilmon and Gatomon. ****** Returning to camp and with just about 48 hours left in the game, some people immediately go to work to look for partnerships. Instantly, some old friends hook up. Jet: We have so much in common... we should work together. Rally: I wouldn't want to be with anyone else. Jet: Great. So, it'll just be the three of us! Rally: Three? Haruka: He's working with me, you know. Rally: Well... I guess the three of us together can't hurt. After all, we've got the most influential power. Haruka: What about Tally? Jet: (shakes his head) No. Then it would be the Adult Alliance all over again. Besides, Tally's already got some new partners of her own, so leave her be. Haruka: Good luck to her then. You think we can beat them? Rally: They have a head start with the posters, but I think we can overcome that. ====== Meanwhile, a current alliance has already started planning their final moves. Trunks: Are you serious? We're done? Yusuke: We're done. Trunks: But it's just the two of us! Yusuke: There's nothing we can do, really. It's not worth it anymore to try and drag up new partners. Especially after all the luck we've had. Trunks: How do we get into the Final Four by ourselves? Yusuke: We'll just to have to trust that things will work our way. Yeah, I know it sucks, but like I said, everything's out of our hands now. Trunks: And if doesn't? Yusuke: (shakes Trunks's hand) It's been nice knowing you, but I've gotta be heading back to being a spirit detective! See ya! Trunks: (CC) I can't believe Yusuke's that confident about winning. Yusuke: (CC) You know, I never wanted to be here in the first place. But after six weeks, I've changed my mind. Everyone here's cool... even Whitney and Keith. I could care less if I win this or not... but I'd gladly accept the money if by some chance I did win, of course. ====== Night Forty James is out sitting by the cliffs overlooking the Pagumon village and Flame Terminal. He's all alone, thinking about things back home. James: (CC) I know that Jessie'll kill me if I don't come home with the money, but what can I do? I don't have a chance at all. The only way that would happen is if I could steal it... but I don't know where the money's being kept! Little does James know, but Whitney, of all people, watches him from behind some nearby trees. Whitney: (CC) Don't get me wrong... James is a bad guy, one that I'd never work with in a million years. Still, he's human just like the rest of us... except for Amy anyway, but... he's got feelings too. I feel sorry for him. ====== Day Forty-One Cooking breakfast, Amy M. and Rini are doing their best to empty out the supply crates by tomorrow morning. For one of the only few times here, they are about to enjoy a feast of sorts. After all, they'll need full stomaches to make conscious decisions at the Final Four vote. James: I don't know if I deserve this. I won't be in the Final Four anyway. Rini: Eat, James. Everyone's going to eat whether they like it or not! Amy M.: Besides, you won't know for sure until we get there. The rest of the group eventually gathers around to munch down a meal of scrambled eggs, rice, and instant oatmeal. Okay, not exactly a breakfast feast, but it's more than they've had in a breakfast meal before this. Jet: (sighs) I'm just glad that oatmeal isn't readily available in my time. I'm sick of the stuff. Yusuke: Then why are you still eating it? Jet: I've got to eat something. I always eat what's on my plate. Rally: I bet you wouldn't if someone put worms or grubs on it. Rini: You're kidding, right? Rally: No way! They do it all the time on 'Survivor.' Whitney: (breathes a sigh of relief) Glad I'm not on that show. The group laughs, blissfully forgetting the fact that they're living half the 'Survivor' experience now by being out in the wild. ====== A few hours before the Final Four vote is scheduled to commence, the gang gets a special delivery from two special Digimon... Bokomon and Neemon. Neemon is holding a large manila envelope in his hands. Takuya: Bokomon and Neemon? What are you two doing here? Bokomon: Ah, Takuya! Long time no see! We've got a special delivery for all of you! Neemon: We do? Bokomon: (hits Neemon on the head) Give him the envelope, you dummy! Neemon: Ohh! Neemon gives the envelope to Takuya, who is now surrounded by Amy R., James, and Yugi. Takuya: I wonder what it could be. Bokomon: You all enjoy it now! We've got to be going! Neemon: We do! Bokomon pulls Neemon out of the scene by tugging on his elastic sweatpants. Once they're gone, the small group that includes Takuya heads to the others to share the contents of the envelope. Rally: So, what's this all about? Yugi: (as Takuya opens the envelope) We're about to find out. Takuya: (reading the letter that was inside) Inside this envelope, you will find sixteen index cards, one for each person. On each index card is a name and the amount of money you have earned in the game. Whether you disclose your winnings to each other now is up to you, but note that the numbers will be revealed at tonight's Final Four vote. Takuya reached in and started pulling out index cards, that are folded in half and taped shut. Some of them immediately open them without question... and the reactions are mixed. Some are happy... James: (overjoyed) Five hundred and ten thousand? Unbelievable! Rini: Wow! Five hundred and seventy thousand? That could buy me everything I've ever wanted! Yugi: (gasps) No way! Seven hundred thousand? On the other hand, some have a mixed reaction... Whitney: (disappointed) Three hundred and forty thousand? Well, I guess it's a whole much better than earning a fifth of that a year. Jet: Four hundred and ten thousand? Hey, does anyone know how to convert that into woolongs? And others are just downright upset over it... Nabiki: That's it? Just three hundred and forty thousand? I came here trying to make a million! Haruka: For six weeks this is it? Only two hundred and fifteen thousand? Well, looks like most of that's going to Keitaro and Naru to pay for Tokyo University... if they ever get in. Yusuke: (CC) Seeing everyone's reactions to how they did was priceless! I ended up somewhere in the middle. Not bad for a guy who didn't want to be here at all! Amy R.: (CC) Now I wish my chances of winning were better! All of this money certainly would impress Sonic! ====== Night Forty-One That night, using flashlights given to them earlier in the day, the sixteen Roomies made their way to the Challenge Field. Tenchi was waiting for them in a forest clearing that was lit up by a giant circle of torches. On one end was a small path leading to a laptop, where the votes would be counted electronically. The group took seats on a set of metal two-row bleachers... the eight tallest sat on the top row, while the shortest eight were on the bottom. Tenchi: Welcome, Roomies! As of this point, you are out of chances to earn money or other people's trust. Tonight, you will vote for which four of you will get a chance tomorrow to win the grand prize. A laptop is on the ground next to Tenchi's chair, already on and ready to go. Tenchi: It's been six long weeks for all sixteen of you. You've handled a lot of surprises that were expected, unexpected by you, and, though I hate to admit, unexpected by even myself. But the fact that all sixteen of you are still here proves that you all have a lot of heart. Keith doesn't seem to care much about anything, as he's not even looking at anyone. Tenchi: Right now, sixteen are eligible to win your cash jackpots. In half an hour, that number will be cut to four. And sometime tomorrow, only one of you will be left to claim it. Yusuke and Trunks look at each other with concern, while Rally sits patiently. Tenchi: Before we get to the vote, a few small things to take care of. First off, a few facts about the money totals. Yugi ended up with the most, at an even $700,000, while Amy Mizuno was right behind at $698,333. Tally was the only other person to break the 600,000 mark with $633,333. Down at the bottom, we had Haruka down at $215,000, with the next two being Nabiki and Whitney, who had racked up $340,000 apiece. Jet is seen looking around the entire group. Tenchi: And, although it's too late to sway people to vote for you, is there anybody that has any last words they'd like to say? At this, Keith brightened up. Keith: Alright, I have some! (to the group) You're all losers! I'll get back at all of you! Just you wait! Keith then sat back down, invoking the angry glares of the entire crew. Tenchi: (sighs) Does anyone having anything good to say? Haruka: Actually, I do. Haruka stands up to address the group. Haruka: Don't you think that the four that earned the most money should be the ones who should be given a chance to win it? They've worked the hardest, so shouldn't they be the ones who get the tickets into the Final Four? Tenchi: (as Haruka sits down) Very interesting. Thus far in three tries, we have not succeeded in making that happen. Let's see if our luck changes tonight as we get ready to vote. ****** The voting podium is set up, and it's now time to begin the Final Four vote. Tenchi: I'll start on the end, so Whitney, you're up first! Remember, you can vote for any four people you want. Whitney heads over to the computer screen. There's also a camera there so that they can say what they want about one of the people they're voting for. Whitney: (CC) I had to think long and hard over whom I was going to vote for. Then I realized... there's at least one person that should get a shot at the money. Rally, you're such a strong woman. I wish I were more like you. This one's for you. Whitney heads out, and Yugi is the next to vote. Yugi: (CC) No hard feelings for dumping me. Still, you're one of the few people that I've trusted here. So Whitney, one of my votes goes to you. Good luck. Amy Rose comes in to cast her vote for her favorites. Amy R.: (CC) I wish well to everyone here, but I can't vote for everyone. The ones I am voting for are ones I believe need the money. Trunks follows the pink hedgehog, as he reveals one of his votes. Trunks: (CC) Only the strongest should win, and I believe Yusuke falls into that category. He probably won't win anyway, but I've got a promise to keep. Four down... Rini is next to vote, as the young Sailor Scout takes her turn. Rini: (CC) You all probably know three of the people I'm voting for, so I tell you who number four is. It's Amy Rose. We're the best of friends, and out of everyone here other than the other Amy, you're the one I'd like to spend more time with even after this is over. Good luck, girl! Takuya comes up to take his turn, as the fourth season Digidestined votes. Takuya: (CC) Well Tally, this is it! I don't know who in our alliance will get in. I'm hoping all four of us will, but that probably won't happen. Whatever happens, I just want to let you know that we're still be friends after this, no matter what! Amy Mizuno goes next, as she strategically selects her four choices. Amy M.: (CC) You're a very special person to me. You've worked so hard that you deserve a chance to win. Hopefully my vote will just be one of many on your way to the grand prize. To round out the bottom row, Yusuke steps up to the plate. Yusuke: (CC) Vote for four? I can barely think of two? Man, there weren't many people I really liked. Oh well... whomever gets my votes better appreciate them. Up to the top row... Bandit Keith takes his turn. Keith: (CC) I don't care who wins this thing! You're all a bunch of dweebs! I'll get back at you, one way or another! And that's the bottom line! Ahem... next is the other game's American, Rally. Rally: (CC) My fourth vote was a tough one, because there were about three or four people I could have chosen. I decided to pick Amy, the Sailor Scout. She's very smart and I think she'll go far in life. I hope she's one of the finalists! James is the next to go, as he goes up to put in his vote. James: (CC) So I can't vote for myself, huh? Oh well... I've got one person I'm definitely voting for! He may be a twerp, but he saved us all way back when. The next to vote is Nabiki, who's certain for her choices. Nabiki: (CC) Whitney, you were always the one person I could talk to. I probably won't win... so if you do, you won't mind sharing it with me, right? Even just a small bit? After all, we did earn the same amount of money! Come on! Only four to go. The next is Trowa, who places his vote. Trowa: (CC) I usually don't do this, but I'm giving one of my votes to Nabiki out of pity. You're a nice girl, but a life of swindling isn't the right one. Hopefully once you leave to go your own way, you'll figure that out. Tally comes up to vote now. Tally: (CC) See, Takuya? I told you I would keep my promise! You've done a whole lot more to help the group than hinder it. If that's not enough to earn you a shot at the money, I don't know what is. Jet comes up to the confessional to place his vote. Jet: (CC) You may be the smallest person here, but back during that whole freaky Marik incident, you were the one that saved the day. Yugi, I hope my vote isn't the only one you're getting, because if it is, then something's definitely wrong. Last but not least, we end with Haruka. Haruka: (CC) I said that the best thing to do would be vote for the top four money earners. And that's what I did. Hopefully, everyone else did the same. Once Haruka returns to the bleachers, Tenchi starts typing away at the computer. After a minute, he turns around the screen so that everyone can see it. Tenchi: Only four of you advance to tomorrow's grand prize vote. In a few seconds, a tally of all the votes will show up. The four with the most will be the ones who get to go for the money. It's time to tally the votes. A listing of all 16 Roomies appears in alphabetical order by first name, in two columns. Numbers start popping up next to the names. Once all the numbers are done, the finalists are announced. Tenchi: It looks like our four finalists will be Amy Mizuno, Rally Vincent, Tally Onodera, and Yugi Mutou! Yugi got seven votes, while each of the ladies got eight. So the four of you will be going for the money. The Final Four is mighty happy over the result, although there is some disappointment among some of the others. Tenchi: In addition, it seems enough of you listened to Haruka, because the four finalists all finished in the top four in money. So... this should make for an interesting final vote tomorrow. Until then... I'll see you later. The group starts to head back, some more excited than others, ready to head off for their last night of sleep in the Digital World. [Final Four Vote Tally: 8: Amy Mizuno, Rally Vincent, and Tally Onodera 7: Yugi Mutou 6: Jet Black 5: Haruka Urashima 4: Rini Tsukino, Takuya Kanbara, and Whitney Emerson 3: Nabiki Tendo and Yusuke Urameshi 2: Trunks Briefs 1: Amy Rose and James Morgan 0: Keith Howard and Trowa Barton] ====== Day Forty-Two The following morning, the sixteen Roomies are seen packing their things, getting ready to leave after the final vote is finished with. Trowa and Jet seem to be chatting about the vote. Trowa: It couldn't have ended a better way. To have those four going for the money. Jet: How can you be so happy after not getting any votes? Trowa: True, I didn't receive any votes, and I was surprised as anyone. Still, all it means is that no one thought I deserved to win, and that I did something wrong or that made everyone disliked me. Who knows? Jet: I don't think anyone dislikes you. I think it's just that everyone just likes a few other people more than you. Trowa: Well, I guess that could be true too. ====== Rini: Alright Amy! You've got it in the bag! Amy M.: I doubt it's that clear cut. Didn't you see how close the vote was last night? There's no favorite to win. Rini: Who cares? Everyone knows that you deserve it the most! Amy M.: Well... ====== Amy R.: (patting Yugi on the back) We're right behind you, Yugi! You'll win for sure! James: I hope you do, too! I'm investing this whole vote in you! Yugi: Thanks... I think. ====== Rally: Whatever happens... we just promise to still be friends afterwards, alright? Tally: Right! May the best woman... or man, in Yugi's case, win! Rally: Okay then! Let's go! ====== It's around noon when the cast returns to the Challenge Field. Four chairs are set out separate from the bleachers. Tenchi motions for the finalists to sit there, while the rest of the group takes a seat in the bleachers. Tenchi: Today's the big day. Today, these four up here have a chance to win a whole wad of money. And I'm not kidding... there's a lot at stake here. But who deserves to win it more? Tenchi walks over to Amy M. and puts his hand on her shoulder. Tenchi: Amy's been the one who thinks in the tightest of situations. In the early going, she was the top money winner. She was also responsible for helping train Gatomon to win the final challenge the other day. He then moves over to Rally. Tenchi: Rally's the one that's kept under the radar in terms of gameplay. But she did help, although controversially, keep Whitney and Yusuke under control and from tearing each other apart. Next up on deck is Tally. Tenchi: Tally's the mastermind behind the Adult Alliance, and even after the break-up, she was the most resourceful of the core members in getting new help. She's already going home with two prizes and could get some cash on top of that! Last comes Yugi, the only male in the group. Tenchi: Yugi's quick thinking helped us get through the Marik incident, and he's been very friendly to the entire team. He's been the least active of the four finalists in terms of strategy, but that didn't stop him from getting here! Tenchi heads back to his seat, but he continues to talk. Tenchi: Yesterday, you voted these four into this position. You now have to decide who is the most deserving of the money. Consider everything good they've done, as well as anything bad. Your decisions could change one of these four character's lives forever. Tenchi sits down and stares at the four finalists, as the other Roomies do. Tenchi: It's time to vote. The four finalists do not get to vote. The rest of you do. Each of you gets one vote... that vote needs to go to the one person who deserves to win the game. Once again, starting with the bottom row, Whitney, you'll start us off. To the finalists... good luck. Whitney gets up and heads over to submit her vote. The others will follow, one at a time, until they have all voted. Whitney: (CC) I thought about it last night. I thought about it this morning. I'm still thinking about it now. My vote could have gone to any of the finalists. But then I had to weigh all the pluses and minuses to determine who deserved it most. We look at the computer screen as she presses the box next to Amy's name. Whitney: (CC) Amy, I've never seen anyone your age act so mature. I hope that you win. Amy Rose comes up to place her vote. We see her push the box by Yugi's name. Amy R.: (CC) I appreciate everything you've done, Yugi! Go get 'em! You've got me and the whole Freedom Fighter team behind you! Trunks is next to vote. We didn't hear his confession or see his vote. After him comes Rini. We don't see either of hers either, since it's obvious whom she's voting for. Takuya steps up to place his vote. We see him push Tally's box on the screen. Takuya: (CC) Digimon to the end! I don't know if Tally deserves it the most, but I'm staying with show loyalty here. Hopefully, it'll be enough. Yusuke goes up. We don't see his vote, but he does leave a confessional. Yusuke: (CC) I only had to think about this for only a few seconds! There's only one person I'd vote for because she's the only person who knew what she was doing here the whole time! And that's why she should win this game! She'd better, too. We skip quickly through a few people, as Keith, James, Nabiki, and Trowa all vote, all without seeing either their votes or their confessionals. Jet comes up to submit his vote. Jet: (CC) This may be what everyone expects because we're bounty hunters and we have a lot in common. But out of the four finalists, I think Rally's done the best all-around job out of everyone. She did what no one else dared to do... separate Whitney and Yusuke when they were at their worst. Dedication and determination like that should be all Rally needs to claim victory. Here's some money that doesn't involve capturing someone, Rally. Only one person is left, and that's Haruka. Haruka: (CC) I'm giving this to the person who deserves it the most. With that being said... good luck to you all, because I'm not telling you my vote. ====== Once Haruka gets back, Tenchi types away on his laptop once again. The votes are tabulated, and everyone waits to hear the final results. What they didn't expect is for Kiyone to appear on a hovering scooter and seeing Tenchi unplug the laptop and head over to her. Jet: What the? Where are you going? Rally: Yeah! Aren't you going to tell us the results! Tenchi: When we get back to Tokyo in a few weeks, you'll find out! Yusuke: What? You mean you're just going to leave us out here? Tenchi: Nonsense! There'll be a Trailmon at Flame Terminal at two thirty today. You can use that to get back to the real world, and then we'll branch you off to wherever you need to go to get home! Kiyone and Tenchi speed off on the scooter, heading down to Flame Terminal and leaving the sixteen Roomies behind. ====== Once at Flame Terminal, Worm is already waiting for him. Tenchi gets onboard and Worm starts speeding down the track, back towards the Digital World entrance. ========================= End Episode Eighteen ========================= ======================= Additional Author's Notes ====================== So, we still have the obligatory performance challenge. What did you think of our judges? Tomoyo Daidouji is back, or Madison Taylor, as more of you know her as. Finally switched over to the sub version of the series. Roger Smith... man, he was mean as a judge, or maybe that's because most of the cosplayers weren't good, but he still serves as a walking ad for "The Big O 2." Kensuke Aida is in to promote "Neon Genesis Evangelion," which I hope to one day be able to get into. And last but not least is Hikaru Amano, representing "Martian Successor Nadesico" for the first time in this series. Who was your favorite judge? Let me know! We finally had Guilmon and Gatomon battle too. Shame the battle couldn't last longer, but given the conditions, I'm sure you're all satisfied with its length. At least it wasn't one-sided like all of the practice fights... except for the last one, that is. The final four were the same four selected by you, the readers. The difference in voting points was not included... I decided upon individual vote numbers myself. Just for reference, Trunks had the lowest number of voting points two (for one third-place vote). The closest to the Final Four that didn't make it in? Haruka with 26 and Whitney with 22 (fourth place had 27). And amazingly... the character that got the most last-minute votes was Yusuke (16 of his 17 were earned in the final week). Turn the page to see Uncut Session 4, featuring material from the final 5 episodes of the season... Or turn two pages to go right to the Reunion Special and find out who won!