The Mole 2: Anime Edition

Episode Four

Week Three Mole Poll: Ruki- 26%, Akane, Mitsune- 17%

English/Japanese Differences
Officer Jenny/Officer Junsar

Contestants
Akane- Tomboy: "Ranma 1/2"
Jenrya- Puppy Watcher: "Digimon Tamers"
Kasumi- Romantic Tension: "Pocket Monsters"
Keitaro- Resident Manager: "Love Hina"
Kenji- Research Assistant: "Pocket Monsters"
Miaka- Student/Priestess: "Fushigi Yuugi"
Mitsune- Slacker: "Love Hina"
Motoko- Kendo Girl: "Love Hina"
Ranma- Freak of Nature: "Ranma 1/2"
Ruki- Card Shark: "Digimon Tamers"
Takato- Goggle Boy: "Digimon Tamers"
Takeshi- Hugh Hefner-Wannabe: "Pocket Monsters"
Tamahome- Bishonen: "Fushigi Yuugi"
Washu- Genius: "Tenchi Muyo"

Episode Four
(Mike stands in front of a dirt road, which is barely distinguishable.)
Mike: Almost like a game of chess, moves have to planned precisely in order to succeed. Sometimes, they do succeed, and are able to convince the group to think what you want them to think. But sometimes moves have undesirable side effects. Mitsune's choice in giving Takeshi an exemption may have been a strategic decision, but as a result, her ally Keitaro Urashima was unable to continue playing... and was the Mole's third victim.

Akane: I know this doesn't sound too good, but I'm almost glad he's gone. He was initially a suspect to me, but in time, I was slowly convinced that he wasn't. I feel like I was proven right. First impressions are so hard to get past, but you have to look at everything equally. I think I'm doing that now. I also have an alliance with Tamahome, and I think things are going to look up for me.

Day Seven
(Overhead shot of two vans driving along a freeway. Close in to Barb driving one of the vans, which carries Akane, Kasumi, Miaka, Takeshi, Tamahome, and Washu.)
Mike: (VO) With Switzerland having made a lasting impression on the players, especially those into Cosplay and getting their butts kicked by American Gatekeepers, the team now heads to Italy, where a whole new series of challenges awaits them... tomorrow. For now, it's a nice day off.

(The team is gathered around a table eating dinner.)
Mike: (VO) However, over dinner, the subject of exemptions rears its ugly head.

Jenrya: Seriously, why Takeshi? No offense, but I'd give it to one of my friends. Don't you think that would have been smart, especially after Keitaro got executed?

Mitsune: Hey, I have my reasons. It's a lot of things. What can I say... he went the farthest to ask for them. I like that kind of effort.

Kenji: You mean you like that kind of sucking up.

Mitsune: What's wrong with sucking up?

Kenji: There's nothing wrong with sucking up. There is a problem with demanding that people suck up to you.

Washu: I thought it was the other way around.

Ruki: Either way. Why should brownnosing be rewarded?

Akane: That's what I'm thinking. And even so, I tried talking to you Kitsune and you didn't give me the exemption. What's so special about Takeshi?

Mitsune: Oh uh... you wouldn't believe me if I told you.

Kasumi: Tell us.

Mitsune: (smiling) It's the eyes.

Miaka: What, the fox-eyes?

Takeshi: I was wondering about that. You know us fox-eyes gotta stick together.

Kenji: I don't believe that.

Mitsune: There's a certain sense of unity in having fox-eyes. You should check out the annual convention for people with the trait, it's a huge gathering.

Tamahome: (questioning) Really... so I suppose you know Chichiri?

(Takeshi smiles.)

Takeshi: Da!

Miaka: Yep, that's Chichiri.

Tamahome: Wow... you were serious.

Mitsune: Of course we were.

Akane: Excuse me... weren't we talking about exemptions?

Takeshi: I don't think we're talking about anything specific Akane, we're just going wherever the conversation takes us.

Washu: Fine by me, I don't see what the big deal is.

Akane: What, with exemptions?

Washu: Yeah. I mean if you're really smart like me you don't need 'em.

Kenji: So what, you wouldn't take one?

Washu: Personally I'd rather keep the money. I'm not talking about Kitsune, she earned hers, but if we had to sabotage something to get it, I wouldn't take it.

Jenrya: It's like doing the Mole's work for him... or her.

Miaka: I suppose it's good if you aren't sure who it is.

Kasumi: The more you think you're going to win, the more you want in there. Makes sense.

Takeshi: So here's the question- who here is confident that they're going to make it all the way to the end? Because somebody in here knows they're going to.

(Washu, Kenji, Mitsune... and Barb put a hand up.)

Kenji: Barb, you don't count.

Barb: What? I know I'm making it to the end... unless this group drives me to a nervous breakdown.

Kasumi: Whoever the Mole is, make sure she has a nervous breakdown.

(The others laugh, except for Barb. Close-up of Jenrya writing something in his journal.)
Jenrya: (VO) I think that that question is something to take note of. Who really does think they're the big dogs in the yard? It's telling. And if you look at Kenji, and Washu, and Mitsune, you do set them at a different level. You expect something out of those three. It makes it seem harder to beat them if they aren't the Mole, and it makes it seem harder to unmask them if they are.

(Akane and Tamahome are in Tamahome's room. Akane is visibly in a good mood.)
Tamahome: So if we were to have a coalition, what do you think's the best way to go about it?

Akane: I don't know. I think just sharing information is enough.

Tamahome: Yeah, that's probably the best way to go. I don't want to try to draw suspicion or anything- I want as much money in the pot as possible!

(Akane laughs)

Akane: Great! You know I feel really good about this. I think we can get a lot accomplished. I was really worried before, especially after Ranma was executed. I wasn't sure if Keitaro was the Mole, and didn't know what I'd do if I was wrong. But I changed my mind, and all suspicions towards Keitaro left when I gave him my journal! I feel like it's a fresh start.

Tamahome: Cool. So who do you suspect now?

Akane: Well, that's the thing. I think that if the Mole wanted to do something big, they would have done something big...

(Tamahome nods)

Akane: I think the Mole's being quiet right now. I'm looking at Jenrya, and Washu.

Tamahome: Really?

Akane: Yeah. I don't think the Mole would try any big moves this early. So they stay quiet and let everybody else take the fire. And Jenrya tore up that neutralizer, Washu's journal was almost empty. It makes perfect sense to me.

Tamahome: Definitely, I'm thinking the same thing.

Akane: Who do you suspect?

Tamahome: Ruki's one. I don't know about her. She's kinda quiet and open at the same time. But another one I'm looking at is Motoko.

(Akane thinks for a second.)

Akane: Oh yeah... I see what you mean. Motoko... definitely!

Tamahome: I mean, she just knocked Keitaro so hard that... hey you were there, what happened?

Akane: With Motoko? Oh, um, she was so mad that he and Ranma stopped for drinks that she pulled out her kendo stick and nailed him. Sent him flying. As a martial artist I was impressed!

Tamahome: But it doesn't help the team effort much.

Akane: No it doesn't. I was looking at Keitaro at the time, but yeah, Motoko really clobbered him. And Ruki didn't dress up... so I think any of those four could be it.

Tamahome: Hey, four suspects is a lot better than ten, so we concentrate on getting the dirt on those four.

Akane: Perfect, I can't believe how well this is going to work!

Tamahome: I know! We're on the same page, this is perfect.

(Akane and Tamahome high-five. They hear a knock on the door.)

Tamahome: Shoot... I bet that's Jenrya.

Akane: Should I hide?

Tamahome: Nah... he knows how the game works. Or he's the Mole.

Akane: Either way.

Tamahome: Come in!

(Miaka enters. She's unsure why Akane's in the room.)

Miaka: Tamahome?

Tamahome: (uncomfortable) Oh... um...

Akane: Hi Miaka!

Miaka: What's going on?

(Tamahome is very hesitant to admit it.)

Tamahome: It's um... uh...

Akane: A coalition.

Miaka: Coalition?

Tamahome: Yeah. Shut the door so no one else hears.

(Miaka does so.)

Akane: We're working together to learn as much about the Mole as possible.

Miaka: Oh.

Akane: You're welcome to join us.

Miaka: Oh. Um... no thanks.

(Miaka slips out. Akane turns to Tamahome.)

Akane: What's wrong with her?

(Tamahome is obviously concerned.)

Tamahome: I don't know.

Akane: Whatever, you said you're rooming with Jenrya?

Tamahome: Yeah... he's pretty quiet when I'm around...

(Miaka is walking through the hall.)
Miaka: (VO) Tamahome's the only person I can trust. Everybody else is suspicious sometimes, but Tamahome is always there for me. I know I'm playing this game alone, and I have to fight by myself, but knowing that Tamahome's helping me gets me through. So why is he going off and forming coalitions with other people?

(Miaka is still walking through the hall. She happens past an open door, where Kenji and Takeshi are talking.)
Kenji: I just don't see it there... he doesn't match my profile.

Takeshi: Profiles only get you so far Kenji, I'm telling you- Tamahome's the Mole.

(Miaka turns ghost-white, including the dark flashy background. Shot of Kenji and Takeshi watching her.)

Takeshi: Whoops...

Kenji: Sloppy, sloppy, sloppy.

Takeshi: Oh boy...

(Miaka slowly walks off.)

Kenji: That could cause problems. Miaka and Tamahome are really close...

Takeshi: Yeah... if this causes tension between them, think I have a chance with her on the rebound?

(Kenji sweatdrops.)
Kenji: You know, Takeshi's a welcome member on the team, but he's definitely a wannabe. It's harder to be Machiavellian than it seems. I know he's playing the game, and I wish him all the luck in the world, but I don't see him winning.

Miaka: Tamahome as the Mole? I don't want to believe that. Obviously Takeshi could be wrong, but what if Tamahome was the Mole? I'd be lost. I wouldn't be able to play knowing that. I'd never thought about the possibility. And even if the possibility exists, I can't think about it. It would be too much for me to bear.

Day Eight
(Close-up of a door. A hand knocks on it. Barb answers and smiles.)
Barb: Come on in.

(The eleven head to a lounge area in the hotel. Barb is standing with the owner of the hand, plain clothes police officer Ken Ichijouji.)

Barb: I would like to introduce you to officer Ken Ichijouji. He's going to be helping us out with an upcoming challenge. I need...

Jenrya: Um, question!

Barb: Yeah?

Jenrya: Are you ever going to have Digimon Tamers cameos? I mean, what's with all the Chosen?

Barb: Okay, fine... want us to write in Ryo?

Jenrya: (shaking his head) Never mind.

Barb: Anyway, I need one person who is interested in police work, more specifically detective work.

Takeshi: Um, question!

Barb: No Takeshi, Officer Junsar is not helping Ken.

Takeshi: (putting his hand down) Okay, just wanted to make sure.

Kasumi: (to the group) Well, is anybody interested?

Akane: I think it would a good idea for the Mole not to be selected.

Ruki: (dry) Good logic.

Washu: Hey, I'll try it!

Kenji: You will?

Mitsune: Aw... I kinda wanted to.

Akane: You do too? Well why don't we put it to a vote? Who votes for Mitsune?

(Akane, Mitsune, Motoko, Ruki, and Tamahome raise their hands.)

Takeshi: Washu-chan?

(Jenrya, Kasumi, Kenji, Miaka, Takeshi, and naturally Washu raise their hands.)

Barb: Looks like Washu-chan wins.

Ken: Great, you can come with me and we'll get started.

Washu: All right.

(Washu gets up and walks out with Ken, leaving the other ten behind.)

Barb: As for the rest, we have another challenge in store for you. You shouldn't feel too left out.

(Shot of two vans driving down the road.)
Mike: (VO) While Washu gets some inside pointers on how to be a detective, the other ten will face a new challenge. Fortunately, superior intelligence is not required, but the challenge may take the players off the beaten path.

Challenge Six
(A dusty field in front of a large patch of trees. There is a path, marked by two flags, running into the woods. The ten players are listening to Barb.)
Barb: This is the entrance to an off-road dirt track, used for racing purposes. Two of you will have to drive down this six-mile track. One down, and one back. To make things more interesting... the task of driving has been handed to the two youngest players... Jenrya and Ruki. They have half an hour to complete the course, and if they do 40,000 yen is added to the pot. Jenrya? Ruki? Come here.

(Jenrya and Ruki both obey, walking up to Barb.)

Barb: To assist you, you can select one player to help teach you how to use the vehicle, and one player to help navigate the course along with your teacher.

Jenrya: What do you think?

Ruki: We'll go with Akane to teach.

Jenrya: Okay... and I'll pick Kasumi to navigate.

Barb: Akane? Kasumi?

(Akane and Kasumi join Jenrya and Ruki. Mike drives in with the vehicle, a four-wheeler that has been modified to safely fit an extra passenger. Akane, Jenrya, Kasumi, and Ruki, join him.)

Mike: It will be up to Akane to teach Jenrya and Ruki how to properly handle this guy. After I explain the basics to her, she will have one hour to teach you two how to use it.

(Mike gets off and begins demonstrating. Meanwhile Barb addresses the remainder of the group.)

Barb: For the rest, we have another way for you to help. Follow me.

(Barb heads towards the flags. The other six follow. There is a large golf cart next to the flags.)

Barb: These flags designate different sections of the course. There are six sections, each one mile long. One driver will start right here, and the other starts on the other side. While the second driver gets one look at the course while heading to their position, the first will have no idea what lies ahead for them. That's where you come in. Each of you will have to take one section of the track. Write down any and all potential hazards that you come across. These will be used by Akane and Kasumi to help the drivers through the course. The better the notes, the easier they'll get through it. Who wants the first section?

(After some hesitation, Miaka raises a hand. Barb fetches a pencil and a clipboard from the cart and hands it to Miaka. A sheet of paper on the clipboard clearly reads "Section 1.")

Barb: Okay Miaka, all you have to do is walk down the path, and write down anything that could slow Jenrya or Ruki down. When you hit the next checkpoint, turn around and come back here. Again, you will have one hour to do this. The rest of you? Hop on.

(Barb gets on the golf cart. The other five do as well. Although the cart is larger than most are, it still does not safely fit all six people.)

Kenji: Um... isn't this a bit dangerous?

Barb: Not for me... just don't fall off.

(Barb tears down the path. Kenji, Tamahome, and Motoko, sitting in back, are barely able to hold on.)

(Montage as Barb drops off Takeshi at the next marker.)
Barb: (VO) On the course, Takeshi is responsible for the second section...

(Barb drops off Tamahome.)
Barb: (VO) Tamahome has mile three...

(She drops off Kenji.)
Barb: (VO) Kenji takes mile four...

(...and Motoko.)
Barb: (VO) Motoko will work section five...

(Mitsune is dropped off last. Barb continues to the end of the course.)
Barb: (VO) While Mitsune inspects the final mile. Each of the six checkers will report their problems to the first navigator when they reach the start of each section.

(Meanwhile, Washu walks into a police station with Ken.)
Mike: (VO) While the ten concentrate on this task, Washu gets a crash course in cop class.

Ken: Basically Washu, I'm here to teach you the general principles of investigating crimes and solving mysteries. We don't have much time, so let's get started.

(They walk into an interrogation room.)
Ken: First off, I'd like to see how much you can figure out just by first impressions. Tell me as much as you can deduce about me.

Washu: Yourself?

Ken: Yes.

(Washu smiles and starts typing on your computer.)

Ken: Washu?

(A bunch of wires appear behind him, and he is immediately tied to the back wall, sensors flying everywhere.)

Ken: What's this...

Washu: (OS) You said you wanted me to find out as much as I can about you...

(Washu is now in her nurse's outfit.)

Washu: I just have to perform a few...

(She slaps on a rubber glove.)

Washu: ...experiments.

(Ken looks around nervously.)

Ken: Uh, no experiments.

Washu: No?

Ken: Please no.

Washu: You sure?

(Ken nods hurriedly.)

Washu: Spoil sport.

(Washu snaps a finger and all the wires retract, freeing Ken. Washu's back in her normal outfit.)

Ken: Anyway... is there anything you can figure out about me?

(Washu thinks for a minute.)

Washu: Let's see... you're married.

(Ken nods in satisfaction, looking at his wedding ring.)

Ken: Good, that's a pretty good observation...

(Washu is closely examining Ken.)

Washu: Married for about... fifteen years. It's clear that you've have offspring... I'd say more than one, probably closer to three. I can also see that one of them's a girl. And...

(Washu smells Ken's shirt.)

Washu: One of them's a newborn. Other than that, you're a member of a health club, you enjoy whiskey more than sake, and voted LDP in the last election.

(Ken's in shock.)

Ken: How... how did you know all that?

Washu: You must not be much of a detective if you don't know how I figured all that out!

(Ken sweatdrops.)

Ken: One question...

Washu: Yeah?

Ken: How am I supposed to teach you detective stuff for four hours?

Washu: Don't! I'm starving, let's go get something to eat.

Ken: Uh... sure.

(Ken and Washu walk out.)

(Back at the track, Ruki appears to have a good hold on the vehicle. Akane nods in approval.)

Akane: Looks good. I'd say we're ready.

Kasumi: Who should navigate who?

Akane: I'll navigate for Jenrya. Sound good?

Jenrya: Yeah. Ruki, are you okay with Kasumi?

Ruki: Whatever.

Kasumi: We should have a competition to see which side gets done fastest.

Akane: Sure! That sounds fun.

Kasumi: Redheads vs. blue-nettes. I guess.

Jenrya: Whatever works!

(Tamahome is arriving at his checkpoint. His paper has a number of hazards listed.)
Tamahome: (VO) One of the interesting things in this particular challenge is that it's so hard to observe everybody else. All the track inspectors are working alone, and it's really difficult to identify any suspicious activity. It's a good thing Akane's with the drivers though. I'm sure she'll come through for us.

(Barb drives by on the golf cart, carrying Ruki and Kasumi.)

Barb: Five minutes until they begin.

Tamahome: Gotcha!

(Barb continues driving past.)

(Mike and Miaka are standing at the first checkpoint. Jenrya and Akane are in the vehicle. Both appear ready.)
Mike: When I say "go," you have thirty minutes to reach the end of the course, switch places with Ruki and Kasumi, and have them drive back here. Along the way are five checkpoints, which the cart must drive through. At each checkpoint, another player will give you information on the next section of track. You may spend as long or as short as you feel is necessary talking to them, but they will give you a sheet with the details. Any discussion with Miaka about the first mile can be done now, free of charge.

(Miaka hands Jenrya the sheet.)

Miaka: The path doesn't look too bad. A few tight turns, but that's just about it.

Jenrya: Okay... good.

Miaka: Good luck Jenrya.

(Jenrya smiles and high-fives Miaka.)

Jenrya: Thanks.

(Akane looks at Miaka oddly as Jenrya passes back the sheet.)

Jenrya: I think this is yours.

Akane: Right. Thanks.

Mike: If we're ready, the thirty minutes begins in five... four... three... two... one... go!

(Mike starts the clock and Jenrya and Akane take off down the course.)

(Montage of shots as they race through the first part of the course. Jenrya handles the machine well. Akane delivers instructions very accurately.)

Akane: After this, it says there's a tight left turn.

Jenrya: Okay... I think this is it.

(Jenrya slows down and gets past it okay.)
Akane: Good... speed up a bit, we need to get going.

Jenrya: Roger!

(Meanwhile, at the end of the course, Kasumi is trying to talk strategy with Ruki. Ruki, however, is focused on the course.)
Kasumi: (VO) I feel like we're at an advantage. Although we don't get any direct instructions from the course inspectors, we already saw the course ourselves once. And considering that Ruki doesn't hesitate to drive fast, we're good to go.

(At the second checkpoint, a thick part of the forest. Takeshi is waiting eagerly. The four-wheeler approaches and Takeshi waves his arms. They meet up, and Takeshi hands them the list. Caption: "Elapsed Time- 2:08")
Takeshi: Okay, you've got to watch the first part of the course, but after that it clears up. You should be good once you pass the tree branch.

Akane: What tree branch?

Takeshi: (as they depart) You'll know it when you see it!!

(Later on the second mile, they're going at a solid pace.)
Jenrya: Um... there's a turn up ahead... left or right?

Akane: Oh... it doesn't say...

Jenrya: Shoot... I can't stop!

(While the course goes left at a 45 degree turn, Jenrya steers right, and brakes hard.)

Akane: Shoot...

Jenrya: Sorry...

(Jenrya backs up, and slowly gets back on track.)

Jenrya: Are you sure there wasn't anything written?

Akane: The turn wasn't that hard, he probably didn't think it was a problem.

Jenrya: Great...

(They continue. Akane looks at her sheet, then up at Jenrya.)

Akane: Tree branch!!

Jenrya: Wa??

(A low-lying tree branch is in the middle of the trail. Jenrya ducks, but it hits Akane in the nose. After clearing it. Jenrya slows down and looks back.)

Jenrya: Akane, are you okay?

(Akane is clutching her face.)

Akane: I'm fine! Keep going.

Jenrya: You sure?

Akane: Yes!

(Jenrya continues, but has some trouble with a small series of bumps.)

Jenrya: Akane, are you sure you're okay, I need your help.

Akane: Sorry...

(Akane tries to read the sheet. She has a bloody nose. Jenrya turns around.)

Jenrya: Akane, you're bleeding!

Akane: It's a bloody nose, it's no big deal.

Jenrya: Look, I'm really...

Akane: (angry) I don't care! Drive!

Jenrya: Sorry!!

Jenrya: She's bleeding, it's partially my fault that she's bleeding, I'm trying to make sure she's alright... is that a problem?

(They approach the next checkpoint. Tamahome is there to greet them. Akane is leaning back, trying to treat her nose. Caption: "Elapsed Time- 5:27")
Tamahome: Akane? What's wrong?

Akane: Nothing! Give me the details.

Tamahome: Okay, besides a couple tricky turns at the end, this one's pretty consistent. Read the sheet.

Akane: Thanks.

(Tamahome hands Akane the sheet and Jenrya drives past.)

(Montage of Jenrya and Akane driving. Both appear to be focused.)
Barb: (VO) The next three sections are pretty solid for Jenrya and Akane...

(Montage of Jenrya driving through a tough patch. He is going very slowly.)
Barb: (VO) The final section causes a few more hang-ups, but they survive with no superfluous injuries.

(They arrive at the last checkpoint. Caption: "Elapsed Time- 15:20")

Kasumi: Turn it around!

(Jenrya drives around in a circle, bringing it back. He immediately jumps out of the car. Akane is a little slower getting out. She goes up to Kasumi and hands her the sheets.)

Akane: Um, that last section is a bit...

Kasumi: I'll read about it, okay?

(Kasumi and Ruki jump in and head off.)

(More montages of Ruki's driving.)
Barb: (VO) Ruki, trying to make up for lost time, tries taking the course fast, which meets with some rough obstacles in the first two sections. However, in the third and fourth legs, that speed becomes an asset, and she makes up some time.

(Tamahome is greeting Ruki as they fly past.)
Barb: (VO) With two miles left, they have less than five minutes to complete the course. Given Ruki's speed, it looks like it's possible, if not for a major setback in section five.

(They are driving downhill, along a very bumpy stretch.)
Kasumi: (taking the bumps) Let's see..e..e... tree!!

(That same low-lying tree branch is approaching. Ruki swerves, but she's going too fast to handle that kind of turn. She goes off the path, and almost flips the cart.)

Kasumi: You okay?

Ruki: Fine, let's get out of here...

(She tries to continue driving, but can't. The four-wheeler is stuck in the mud.)

Kasumi: What's wrong?

Ruki: We're stuck.

(Kasumi gets out.)

Ruki: Don't get out... I'll manage.

Kasumi: No... you're really stuck. I think we should get some help.

Ruki: No! Hold on!

(Ruki steps on the gas, causing the tires to spray Kasumi with mud.)

Kasumi: Ruki! Don't force it!

Ruki: We don't need help!

Kasumi: Yes we do! Tamahome wasn't that far back! I'll be back soon.

(Kasumi starts running back. Ruki gets out and tries forcing the tire out herself. It obviously doesn't budge.)
Barb: (VO) According to the rules, if stuck, the navigator is permitted to run to the nearest checkpoint to get help. But with only four minutes to get one and a half miles, things look pretty grim.

(Ruki continues to try to get the tire out. She only gets more mud on it... and herself.)

(Back at the starting point, Mike calls time. Miaka looks disappointed. Caption: "Challenge Failed")

(Kasumi finally walks back, with Tamahome. Ruki is sitting on the vehicle sulking.)

Kasumi: Sorry it took so long.

Ruki: We can forget about winning now. You took forever.

Kasumi: Hey, would you rather stay stuck? Tamahome, can you get us out of this?

(Tamahome manages to lift the vehicle out of the mud.)

Tamahome: Okay...

Ruki: Why bother? It's over.

Kasumi: You don't know that...

Barb: (OS) Yes she does...

(They look over to see Barb, Akane, Jenrya, Kenji, Mitsune, and Motoko on the golf cart.)

Barb: Is that thing running?

(Ruki checks it... it is.)

Kasumi: Yes. It's fine now.

Barb: Good, hopefully you can fit Tamahome and Takeshi on it. I don't trust two more people on this.

Mitsune: Why not- the more, the merrier!

(Barb drives past them.)

Kasumi: Well, come on... the sooner we get back, the sooner we can get some clean clothes.

(Shot of Jenrya, talking to Akane. Jenrya doesn't look pleased.)

Jenrya: Man, you'd think they'd be able to report everything. I can't believe how much they missed. Especially Takeshi and Mitsune.

Akane: It wasn't that bad, people just have a different idea of what's considered hazardous.

Jenrya: I guess...

Kenji: I noticed that Jenrya's starting to act up now. Between him and Ruki, the new Digimon kids are a lot more... spunky than the old ones.

Motoko: The Tamers are a handful sometimes. Mole-ish? No... it's just naptime for them.

(The ten arrive back at the hotel with Barb and Mike.)
Mike: (VO) After a disappointing loss, the players find that the game is not over yet. A new challenge is about to greet them, as soon as they step in the door.

(They walk in the door, to find Ranma 1/2's Tatewaki Kuno awaiting.)

Akane: (surprised) Kuno-sempai... what are you doing here?

(Kuno is pleasantly surprised.)

Kuno: Akane Tendo! What a pleasant surprise to find you here! Fate works in ways mere men can not understand... and I see you've brought friends. I suppose that letch Ranma Saotome is around...

Mike: Nope, he's gone!

Barb: Done!

Mike: Outta here!

Barb: You are the weakest link,

Barb/Mike: Goodbye!

Mike: Of course, you're probably happy about that.

(Kuno scoffs)

Kuno: Heavens no- an enemy smited by means other than my own hand smites none but my own hand.

Barb: Great, just read your lines.

Kuno: Recently, I, the Blue Thunder of Furinkan High Tatewaki Kuno, has won a kendo tournament and have been presented with a prestigious medal of victory. Since this is such a glorious occasion, I am inviting you all to a party on my behalf to display this medal to the viewing public. The party starts at three o'clock tomorrow, with the presentation at four. I hope you all attend... especially you Akane. Till then, farewell.

(Kuno walks out. When he's good and gone...)

Motoko: (dry) This better be a challenge.

Barb: Hell yes! First off, I need two people who would like to act as guards to this medal.

(Nobody wants to at first. Slowly, Kasumi and Kenji put hands up.)

Barb: Alright, Kasumi and Kenji. Your task at this party will be to make sure nobody steals the medal. If the medal is there when it is presented, 10,000 yen will be added to the pot and you two each receive an exemption from the quiz.

Mike: The other eight, meanwhile, will have to work together and find some way to steal the medal. If you do, a special investigator will come in, interview everybody, and try to deduce who the thief is. If the culprit isn't identified, 20,000 yen is added to the pot, and the thief earns an exemption.

Tamahome: So who's the investigator?

(As if on cue, Washu bursts through the door.)

Washu: I'm back! Did I miss anything?

Barb: Come on in and I'll give you the details.

(Washu and Barb go off into another room. The rest of the group appears nervous.)

Mike: Should Washu successfully pick out the thief, no money is added to the pot. Furthermore, Washu gets an exemption. You have about twenty hours to prepare. Good luck!

(Later that night, Kasumi and Kenji are trying to listen through a closed door.)
Kasumi: Can you hear anything?

Kenji: Nope.

Kasumi: What do you think they're going to do?

Kenji: Whatever it is, we'd better be ready for it.

Kasumi: I don't think listening in is going to work...

Kenji: No... let's go.

(Kasumi and Kenji leave the door and walk down the hall.)

Kenji: (making small talk) So... have you seen the new issue of Pokémon Monthly?

Kasumi: I don't subscribe to that anymore... where would I have it delivered?

Kenji: Oh yeah... see ya.

(They each enter a separate room. Pan over to the door- everybody else besides Washu walks out. Most seem pretty satisfied. Staying behind in the room is Mitsune and Motoko.)

Mitsune: Happy now?

Motoko: I wasn't complaining that you didn't give me the exemption. It was just who you gave it to.

Mitsune: Yare, yare... besides, I like this plan anyway.

(Kenji is busy jotting something down in his journal when Takeshi enters the room. Kenji smiles.)

Kenji: So Takeshi... is it a good plan?

Takeshi: Huh? Oh... uh... yeah, it's not bad.

Kenji: Not bad? I hope it's better than not bad if you expect it to outsmart me, Kasumi, and Washu.

Takeshi: I don't know, it could.

Kenji: Could? I wouldn't take that chance. Who thought it up?

Takeshi: Uh, Kitsune.

Kenji: I suppose she's the thief.

Takeshi: No...

Kenji: So who is it?

Takeshi: I'm not telling. You're the guard, we have to get past you tomorrow.

Kenji: Why? If the plan's not that good, you might as well take the ten grand and give me and Kasumi the exemptions. Beats trying to outsmart Washu.

Takeshi: Well... I still can't...

Kenji: Sure you can. I mean, if you're the thief, then I understand, but if you're going to give the exemptions to somebody, wouldn't you rather have it be me and Kasumi?

Takeshi: Hmm... I suppose. But Kitsune...

Kenji: I don't care what Kitsune says... I wouldn't believe anything she says for a second. I think you should tell me what to expect, help me and Kasumi get the exemptions, and we have the 10,000 with no problem.

(Takeshi thinks about it for a second, then nods.)

Takeshi: Okay... I think it's a bit complicated myself. First off...

(Takeshi continues explaining.)
Takeshi: (VO) There's nothing wrong with this, right? I'm just cutting our losses now. We can't outsmart Washu-chan, and this way my friends get the exemption. I think it's a win-win situation.

Day Nine
(A large, luxurious estate. Inside, most of the group is gathered inside a multi-purpose room, with a stage at one end. There are food tables set up, and it looks like any normal party. The players are all dressed up, and are behaving normally.)
Mike: (VO) Here's the setup. The medal is being kept in a covered display case backstage.

(Shot of Kasumi and Kenji watching the medal.)
Mike: (VO) Kasumi and Kenji are free to do as they wish in the time given.

(Shot of the floor, and two doors leading to the stage area.)
Mike: (VO) There are two doors that connect the floor to each side of the stage. The stage itself also has a curtain separating the stage area from the back wall. With the plan formulated, each of the players has a special role to fulfill.

(Jenrya and Ruki walk up to Kuno. Both are wearing maintenance uniforms.)
Mike: (VO) Jenrya and Ruki are to stay backstage for the entire hour.

Kuno: And who might you be?

Jenrya: Electricians.

Kuno: What are you doing here?

Jenrya: Well, we figure you have this medal to show off. We're going to go backstage to make sure the lighting's good enough.

Ruki: An item of this prestige must be shown off as well as possible, and that's our department.

Kuno: Ah! Of course! The stage is over there. Make haste, the showing is in one hour!

(Takeshi is talking to Washu.)
Mike: (VO) Takeshi's task is to occupy Washu, who has not been told what is going to happen.

Washu: Hmm... something's fishy here. Is this a challenge?

Takeshi: I don't know. All I'm thinking is that there's free food... as long as you can beat Miaka to it.

(Miaka and Mitsune are quietly standing at the food table. Miaka is stuffing herself.)
Mike: (VO) For now, Miaka and Mitsune are staying under the radar. Their roles haven't picked up yet.

(Shot of Kuno as he walks up and greets Akane with a kiss to the hand.)
Mike: (VO) Akane, Tamahome, and Motoko get the unenviable task of dealing with Kuno himself.

Kuno: Akane Tendo, please introduce me to your friends.

(Tamahome puts an arm around Akane's shoulder and smiles.)

Tamahome: Name's Tamahome. What's up?

Kuno: You fiend! Hands off her!

(Meanwhile, shot of Miaka, visibly burning with anger.)

Mitsune: Sorry, he was the only one who could do this.

Miaka: (bitter mumbling) Stay away from him...

(Back with Akane and Kuno, Akane introduces Kuno to Motoko.)
Akane: And this is Motoko. She practices kendo too, you know.

Kuno: (to Motoko) Ah... but I didn't see you at the tournament.

Motoko: (dry) I was busy.

Kuno: Busy or not matters not, the outcome would still be the same. A mere woman such as yourself would have nary a chance against the Blue Thunder.

Motoko: Wanna bet?

(Motoko is dressed formally, but still pulls out her kendo stick.)

Motoko: You're on.

(Meanwhile, backstage, Jenrya and Ruki are quietly waiting for their cue.)
Jenrya: (quietly) At quarter-to-four, we basically make as much noise as possible, sounding busy. Hopefully we can distract those two.

Ruki: (quietly) Right.

(Silence for a couple seconds.)

Ruki: Um. I think I should say this... I'm sorry.

(Jenrya's obviously surprised.)

Jenrya: For what?

Ruki: The whole thing with Miaka. I admit it. She could be the Mole. I was collecting information, and I shouldn't have withheld it from you.

Jenrya: (smiling) Apology accepted. You know, this is what we need to do to work together. We can do a lot as a team. So do you want to team up and try to watch Miaka a little closer now?

(Ruki nods and smiles slightly.)

Ruki: Yeah.

Jenrya: Great.

(Mitsune and Miaka are observing Kuno... after he was driven into the wall by Motoko.)

Mitsune: Yare yare.

Miaka: Kitsune? Isn't it almost time?

Mitsune: Right. You take the left side, I'll take the right side.

(They both leave.)

(Mike narrates as Akane, Motoko, and Tamahome are talking. Miaka arrives and talks to Tamahome. Tamahome leaves with Miaka.)
Mike: (VO) At 3:45, the plan begins to take effect. Miaka calls Tamahome away.

(A few seconds later, Mitsune walks up to Motoko.)
Mike: (VO) And Mitsune calls Motoko away.

(Akane walks towards Washu.)
Mike: (VO) Meanwhile, Akane helps Takeshi distract Washu.

(Backstage, Jenrya and Ruki are on opposite sides, and start to clamor a lot on the lights, hoping to draw attention. On the left side, Miaka and Tamahome watch and wait. On the right side, Mitsune and Motoko watch and wait.)

Kasumi: Is this them?

Kenji: Why don't you go check it out? I'll stay here.

Kasumi: It sounded like it came from more than one direction.

Kenji: Make a circle.

Kasumi: Oh, um... okay.

(Kasumi leaves her post to check on Ruki. Kenji stands in a position, where he sees both the medal display and the right side of the stage. Although Mitsune and Motoko are hiding, he waves to them.)

Mitsune: H... how does he know we're here?

Motoko: Should I hit him?

Mitsune: No... maybe you should try from the back. I'll go back out and look suspicious.

(Motoko goes towards Ruki while Mitsune rejoins the party. Kenji sees Mitsune leave and smiles confidentially. On the left side, Miaka and Tamahome are waiting.)

Miaka: We're just supposed to wait?

Tamahome: Yep... Motoko gets to do the job. In fact, we can head back out.

(Miaka and Tamahome do so. Kenji takes a quick glance backstage. No sign of Kasumi, Jenrya, Ruki, or Motoko.)
Mike: (OS) With the area secure, it looks as if the theft would be unsuccessful. But then again... looks can be deceiving. Especially when Kenji's involved.

(Kenji shrugs and seizes the opportunity to steal the medal himself.)

Kenji: It was a spontaneous decision. We double the pot, and I still get an exemption. All I have to do is convince Washu that I didn't do it. That shouldn't be too hard.

(A perfectly healthy Kuno prepares to show off the medal. Everybody has returned to their original posts. However, the medal has disappeared. Kuno is shocked, as is Kasumi. Kenji pretends to be shocked.)

Mike: (OS) With the medal stolen, the detective is on the case.

Challenge Seven
(Barb is on the stage explaining the rules to Washu. Washu smiles confidently.)
Barb: (VO) Washu will be given one minute for each of the ten other players. She may ask whatever questions she wants, as well as look at the crime scene. The other ten have been isolated immediately, and will not have an opportunity to collaborate on a story.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Akane.)
Washu: Did you see anybody go backstage during the party?

Akane: Yes. Miaka called Tamahome away and I think they went backstage.

Washu: Anybody else?

Akane: Uh... nope, none that I noticed.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Takeshi. No audio.)

(Shot of Washu interviewing Ruki.)
Washu: Did a guard check up on you backstage?

Ruki: Yes.

Washu: Who?

Ruki: Why should I tell you?

Washu: Because I can do very mean things to you.

Ruki: Fine... it was Kasumi.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Tamahome. No audio.)

(Shot of Washu interviewing Miaka.)
Miaka: I was watching Tamahome the entire time.

Washu: Did any of the guards stay at their posts?

Miaka: Um... yes.

Washu: Which one?

Miaka: Well...

Washu: Miaka...

Miaka: Kenji.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Mitsune. No audio.)

(Shot of Washu interviewing Motoko.)
Washu: Did any of the guards notice you backstage?

Motoko: Yes. Kenji did.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Jenrya.)
Jenrya: It was Kasumi. Yeah, she was on my side.

(Shot of Washu interviewing Kasumi. No audio.)

(Shot of Washu interviewing Kenji.)
Kenji: Kasumi went to check the left side. I checked the right.

Washu: Did you see anybody there?

Kenji: Yes. Motoko... and Ruki.

Washu: Thank you.

(Washu is standing before the ten players, along with Barb and Mike.)

Barb: Okay, Washu. We are ready for your verdict. Again, if you are right, the challenge is a failure but you earn an exemption from tonight's quiz. If you are wrong, 20,000 yen is added to the pot. Let's hear it.

Washu: Great! Well, I can eliminate Akane and Takeshi from suspicion since they were with me when the crime happened. Jenrya and Ruki were both supposedly recognized by the guards, as was Motoko, so those three are out. Miaka, Mitsune, and Tamahome all were backstage, but none of them would have had the time window to pull off the crime. Also, all of their stories matched against each other. That leaves us with two people... the guards themselves! I have narrowed it down to either Kasumi or Kenji. Now, the only story that does not match up is Ruki's. She claimed that it was Kasumi that inspected the right side of the stage. Motoko and Kenji both said that it was Kenji that was on the right side. Therefore, it's either Kasumi and Ruki that are lying, or Kenji and Motoko. Kenji also said that Kasumi checked out the left side- Jenrya's. Jenrya confirmed that, which means that Jenrya and Ruki both said that Kasumi was the one who left her post while Motoko said that it was Kenji. And that's the obvious disparity- if Jenrya was working on one side, and Ruki was working on the other- how could Kasumi be on both sides at the same time? That's what doesn't fit. I have deduced that while Kenji was checking on both Motoko and Ruki, Kasumi rushed back after checking on Jenrya and stole the medal. I accuse Kasumi, you can hand me my exemption now!

Barb: Okay... would the real culprit please step forward?

(Kenji smiles and steps forward. Most of the group is shocked, especially Kasumi. Caption: "Challenge Completed")

Kenji: I outsmarted a genius... that's unbelievable!

Kasumi: W... you did it?

Kenji: Yup!

Kasumi: Why?

Kenji: Double the pot, and I get an exemption.

Kasumi: What about me? Aren't we a team?

Kenji: You already got one!

Mitsune: That was really irresponsible, we almost lost everything because of that.

Kenji: Yeah, but we didn't!

Washu: So it was you? Shoot... I knew it was either you or Kasumi. I thought you would've been too obvious.

Mitsune: (to Kenji) In other words... you got lucky.

Kenji: Luck's an important factor Kitsune, sometimes it's all you have.

Barb: Well either way, Kenji earns an exemption and 20,000 yen is added to the pot. Tonight you face another quiz and the fourth execution.

Kasumi: I feel... betrayed. I mean, sure we got the extra money, but both of us had the exemption and it's like Kenji risked giving it up just to make sure I didn't get one. Washu came extremely close to figuring that out. I just can't believe Kenji pulled a stunt like that.

(Shot of Ruki taking the quiz. Her question is "What was the Mole's role in the Off-Road game?")
Ruki: (VO) We had four minutes to get out of the mud and get to the finish line. Kasumi insisted that she get help, and she and Tamahome took forever to get back. I have no doubt that the Mole was behind us losing that game.

(Shot of Miaka taking the quiz. Her question is "What color eyes does the Mole have?")
Miaka: (VO) I'm still shaken up by everything. The idea that Tamahome could be the Mole... it's scary. And I really don't like the way he's been working with Akane. Whoever the Mole is, trying to get in between Tamahome and I seems to be one of their strategies.

(Shot of Jenrya taking the quiz. His question is "Who is the Mole's Japanese voice actor/actress?")
Jenrya: (VO) I'm leaning towards two people right now. One is Takeshi. Both Ruki and I got hung up on the section that he was responsible for. I don't think that's a coincidence. The other is Miaka. Ruki finally opened up and said she suspected Miaka. That's huge. I've been looking at the notes Ruki had for Miaka... she's definitely a suspect.

(Shot of Washu taking the quiz.)
Washu: (VO) After being told everything, Kenji's definitely questionable. I seriously thought that the plan would have been geared to make Kasumi, somebody who is definitely not the Mole, be the thief. But Kenji ignored the plans, and did something which was obviously for his own agenda. I'm really suspicious now.

(Shot of Akane taking the quiz. Her question is "What did the Mole do at Kuno's party?")
Akane: (VO) Washu said just two days ago that she would take money over an exemption. How then does she explain the effort she put into investigating this? She tried to solve the case and win an exemption when she knew that it would cost the team money. It's the exact opposite of what she said she would do.

(Usual setup- stuffy room, chairs, computer. Barb presides yet again.)
Barb: New country- same drill. I'll enter the names in randomly, and whoever gets the red thumbprint gets a one-way ticket to Loserville... or whatever their hometown happens to be named. Kenji has earned an exemption, so he can not be executed.

(Barb sits down in front of the computer.)
Barb: I'll enter the names randomly, starting with Takeshi.
(Barb types in "TAKESHI." Shot of Takeshi, trying to stay calm.)

(It flashes green.)

Barb: Washu.
(Barb types in "WASHU." Shot of Washu, also calm.)

(It flashes green.)

Barb: Kasumi.
(Barb types in "KASUMI." Kasumi is nervous.)

(It flashes green.)

Barb: Jenrya.
(Barb types in "JENRYA." Jenrya is confident.)

(It flashes green. Jenrya cracks a half-smile and nods.)

Barb: Miaka.
(Barb types in "MIAKA." Miaka is a nervous wreck.)

(It flashes red. Miaka bends down, sad. Tamahome pats her on the back. He's sad, but knew it was inevitable. Miaka stands up and gets her back. She and Barb quietly walk out.)
Miaka: (VO) I knew it was coming. This game is overwhelming. I can usually take overwhelming odds, but between the challenges, trying to identify the Mole, and trying to work with everybody, even Tamahome, it was too much. I gave it my best shot, but I guess it wasn't enough.

(And as usual, the tribute. Jenrya is particularly confounded.)
Kasumi: She was lots of fun. Never a dull moment with her, she lightened up everybody.

Tamahome: I... as much as I love her, I knew that it wouldn't be long. I just wish there was a way I could have helped her. She's a tough girl but... this just wasn't her game.

Jenrya: Yeah, I uh... I'm just really... confused.

(Jenrya looks over at Ruki, who is eyeing him back. Ruki cracks a half-smile and turns away. Jenrya goes from confused to shocked.)

(Outside, Miaka is getting into the van.)
Barb: Good work. Hope you had fun.
(The van drives off- the priestess has been consumed.)

End Episode Four

Author's Notes
In case you are wondering, I'm now taking challenges from various Moles around the world. For example, the Off-Road race is based on a challenge in the German Mole, while the Detective game is from Australia. Next time, I have a couple doozies from Israel!

Hope you enjoyed Kuno's cameo… even if you didn't you still gotta give it up for the fact that I actually made up a nonsense proverb for him to quote! Still easier than doing a Sana-rap though. Next episode- heavy with the Hina!

Finally, the fact that the series was cancelled had nothing to do with the fact that this episode was freaking long. This happens to be a pivotal episode, and there was a lot of stuff to cover. This probably would have happened even if the real show was still on the air. Next time should be a doozy as well, as Jenrya faces the reality of Ruki's backstab attempt, Tamahome continues the game without Miaka, and a secret ballot makes things interesting. The absolute destiny apocalypse!