The Anime-zing Race
Episode One
Disclaimer
I so own nothing. The concept,
characters, and even the hosts belong to somebody else. I feel so lonely!
Authors Notes
This is the curtain call. An encore reality series simply for fun. The AAs
gone, hopefully taking all the depressing elements along with it. Thisll be
pretty much what youd expect from my previous reality series- the comedic
crossover element, the glory and thrills of competition, and of course, the
marketing element thats going to make you want to go out and buy all these
series you havent seen before. In case you arent familiar with all of the
characters, head on over to the official Anime-zing Race website
(which you can find on my author's profile page) to learn more about the teams,
vote for your favorite teams and who you think will win, and enter a contest to
win a DVD of any of the series seen here.
Leg
One
(Breathtaking shots of the tropical
landscape of Okinawa, an island southwest of Japan. Finally, pan in to a shot
of Love Hinas Keitaro Urashima, walking along one of
the islands many beaches.)
Keitaro: Im standing here in Okinawa, Japan. A beautiful island, where the hot
springs tamago breed of turtles fly naturally and the
Iriomote mountain cats live in seclusion. This is the
starting line for a race unlike any other except for that one on CBS which
this steals just about every concept from without their permission.
(Keitaro
stops and looks around nervously.)
Keitaro:
Dont tell anybody.
(Keitaro
continues walking.)
Keitaro:
From this starting line, eleven teams will begin a race around, and above, the
world for ten million yen.
(Shot
of a boat, sending four liferafts to the shore.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Boats are taking the teams to this location.
(Back
to Keitaro)
Keitaro:
Each team is made up of two people with a pre-existing relationship. And
theyre going to need that relationship to survive the world and everything
within it. The eleven teams are
(The
first raft lands, and the first team steps onto the beach- Takuya Kanbara and Zoe Orimoto from the fourth season of Digimon.)
Keitaro: (VO) Takuya and Zoe, digi-destined
from Tokyo, of the series Digimon.
(Shot
of Takuya and Zoe traveling along a Trailmon track. Interview sessions are shown through
italics.)
Takuya: (VO) Were part of a team with a major responsibility. Of course
were going to work together well. Were pretty much screwed if we dont.
Zoe: Its a professional relationship. Not friendly,
not mushy, not at each others throats every five seconds. Its professional.
Well maybe at each others throats every five minutes. But still professional.
(The
second team, Cardcaptor Sakura title character Sakuya
Kinomoto and friend Tomoyo Daidouji, get off the boat.)
Keitaro: (VO) Sakura and Tomoyo, best friends and
schoolmates from Tomoeda.
(Shot
of Sakura practicing her cheerleading routine, as Tomoyo
videotapes her.)
Sakura: (VO) We know everything about each other, and weve been through
enough together so that I know nothing can hurt me if I know Tomoyo is nearby.
Tomoyo: Sakura has been through quite a few fun
adventures and Ive been very content watching her and keeping a living record
of all the amazing things she does. But were in this to work together, and
were going to do just that.
(Cowboy
Bebops Spike Spiegel and Jet Black step on the beach. Both have little
expression, looking at the situation carefully.)
Keitaro: (VO) Spike and Jet, bounty hunters wandering aimlessly from the series
Cowboy Bebop.
(Shot
of Spike lounging around the back of the Bebop as Jet passively types around on
the computer.)
Spike: (VO) It gets to a point where you look up at the same stars youve
seen for the last month and you say- theres gotta be something we can do to
change the pace a little. I think thats why were here.
Jet: The moneys an afterthought. This is a lot of work, even for all that
cash.
(The
final team leaving the first raft is Ash Ketchum and Brock Slate of Pokmon.)
Keitaro: (VO) Ash and Brock, Pokmon trainers also wandering aimlessly.
(Shot
of Ash battling with Pikachu, as Brock watches
intently.)
Brock: (VO) Its another adventure. We travel a lot, and we think thats
going to give us a big advantage in a race to cover so much ground in so little
time.
Ash: Brocks been a friend, a mentor, and someone Ive come to really
respect. And were both out to do what we always do- be the best.
(The
second boat arrives. The first ones leaving are Tenchi Muyos
Aeka and Sasami. Aeka steps off carefully.)
Keitaro: (VO) Aeka and Sasami, sisters and members of
the Jurai royal family, from the series Tenchi Muyo.
(Sasami is playing in the backyard of the Masaki household
as Aeka observes her, smiling.)
Aeka: (VO) Many of the other teams may discount us immediately, seeing as we
are princesses. But princesses can have their competitive edge as well, and
were more than ready to tackle the demands of this race.
Sasami: I love my sister Aeka and were going to show
them what were really capable of!
(Misato
Katsuragi and Ritsuko Akagi
of Evangelion step off the boat.)
Keitaro: (VO) Misato and Ritsuko, government officials living in Tokyo-3, from
the series Neon Genesis Evangelion.
(Ritsuko
and Misato are walking down the halls at NERV Headquarters, both looking over
some paperwork.)
Ritsuko: (VO) Its not a glamorous life, and we dont get to travel nearly
as often as wed like to. When we do, its always on business. Not that theres
much to see in our world anyway.
Misato: So were going to see the world in this time period and, I dont know,
maybe nab some cash on the way. Get ready world its Ladies Night.
(The
final team on raft two is Syaoran and Meiling Li, of Cardcaptor Sakura.)
Keitaro: (VO) Syaoran and Meiling, cousins from Hong Kong, from the series
Cardcaptor Sakura.
(Syaoran
and Meiling are practicing martial arts together.)
Syaoran: (VO) We have a deep bond with each other. Weve trained together,
and understand our strengths and weaknesses.
Meiling: Not only that, but Im his bride! Thats not just a title thats
thrown around, you know.
(Raft
three- Digimons second rep, Takato and Henry,
disembark.)
Keitaro: (VO) Takato and Henry, Digimon Tamers out of West Shinjuku.
(Takato
and Henry supervise their partners battling the bad creatures on the street.)
Henry: (VO) When you save the world, you get a real different outlook on
life. I want to see what the heck we saved. And maybe get paid for it.
Takato: Were tight. We get the feeling that between either of us, we can do
just about anything. Well, well find out soon enough.
(Next
off is Yukino Miyazawa and Souichiro
Arima from Kare Kano, also known as His and Her Circumstances. They hold
hands on the way.)
Keitaro: (VO) Yukino and Arima,
a dating high school couple from Kawasaki and stars of Kare
Kano.
(Yukino and Arima are both
studying, frequently looking up and making eyes at each other.)
Arima: (VO) Ive been tested before, many
times. And Ive always managed to pull through and excel. Now I want to see how
far my potential really lies.
(His girlfriend, however, is particularly competitive.)
Yukino: The other teams arent going to know what hit
them! I dont care how many times theyve saved the world- theyve never dealt
with the likes of us before!
(Tenchi
Muyos Kiyone Makibi and
Mihoshi Kuramitsu are the next to step off. Mihoshi
trips initially, but Kiyone, without looking, reaches out and grabs Mihoshis wrist, allowing her to keep her balance. Kiyone
smiles as they start walking.)
Keitaro: (VO) Kiyone and Mihoshi, Galaxy Police detectives, currently living in
Okayama, from the series Tenchi Muyo.
(Mihoshi
and Kiyone have their guns drawn in attempt to catch a bank robber.)
Mihoshi: (VO) Were ready for this. Were tough and trained, and were going
to show everybody what the Galaxy Police can do!
Kiyone: (VO) Its a measuring stick. How far can we go when were being
stretched to the limit? This is probably a lot more demanding than playing
interstellar meter maid, thats for sure.
(The
final team, Pokmons Gary and Samuel Oak, get off the raft. Samuel puts an arm
around his grandsons shoulder. Gary seems uncomfortable, but eventually lets
it go.)
Keitaro: (VO) Gary and Samuel, grand-relatives living in Pallet, from the
series Pokmon.
(Gary
talks with his grandfather over a video-phone.)
Samuel: (VO) Ever since my grandson left for his Pokmon journey, I havent
really had time to spend with him. We always had a taste for adventure, so this
is right up our alley.
Gary: Im not worried about Grandpa being the oldest one of the group. He did a
lot in his day, I did a lot in mine, and we can both do a lot today, starting
with this race.
(The
eleven teams march to the official starting point. Quick shots of all the teams)
Keitaro:
(VO) The seven series represented here are from across the board.
(Shot
of Spike and Jet walking.)
Keitaro:
(VO) From deep space
(Shot
of Sakura and Tomoyo, walking hand-in-hand.)
Keitaro:
(VO) To your own backyard.
(Shot
of Ash and Brock walking.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Whether with fantastical monsters
(Shot
of Misato and Ritsuko walking.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Giant robots
(Shot
of Yukino and Arima
walking, still hand in hand.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Or just the reality of high school.
(Shot
of Takuya and Zoe.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Whether normal people in a strange universe
(Shot
of Aeka and Sasami.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Or the strange universe here on Earth
(The
eleven teams gather in a slightly curved line. Keitaro stands before them.)
Keitaro: The things theyve learned, the experiences theyve forged through,
and the challenges theyve overcome will help them in this race across fifteen
very different anime series that span the world and the solar system. This is
the Animezing Race.
(Keitaro
turns and greets the teams, explaining the most basic of rules.)
Keitaro:
The seven shows, and the eleven teams, represented here are indeed very
different. But this is only the beginning. In a few moments, youll be starting
a race consisting of twelve legs, representing a total of fifteen different
anime series. Each place that you need to go is marked with a yellow and red
flag known as a route marker. Youll find these flags by solving clues that
youll get in sealed envelopes like this.
(Keitaro
pulls out an envelope, which are identical to those from the real series.)
Keitaro:
Along the way, youll have to complete various tasks. At the end of each leg
there is a Pit Stop. Eight of the Pit Stops are elimination points. You need to
get there as fast as you can because if youre last youll be eliminated.
(Continue
panning across the teams, as everybody takes it in.)
Keitaro:
(VO) At the start of each leg, youll get a small amount of money to cover all
expenses, except for any transportation we provide, airline tickets, and interplanetary
shuttles. Use your money wisely, as any money you save will come in handy later
in the race.
(Shot
of someones luggage, with a yellow envelope draped on top of it.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Your first clue envelope is located on top of your luggage. When I say the
magic word, you can run to your bags, open the envelope, and read the clue.
After that
(Keitaro
smiles.)
Keitaro:
The game is on, and the rest is up to you. Everybody ready?
(The
teams line up.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Good luck the Love Hina leg of the Animezing
Race begins when I give the signal
(Keitaro
raises an arm as the twenty-two wait impatiently.)
Keitaro:
(dropping his arm) GO!!
(Everybody
makes a mad dash for their bags, helplessly trampling poor Keitaro. After
everybody passes, Keitaro remains on the ground, clearly in pain.)
Keitaro:
(moaning) Ow I stayed up all night memorizing my
lines for *that??*
(Back
to the action- the dash to the bags is made even more interesting since the
bags arent directly ahead of the teams. Misato and Ritsuko veer madly across
the pack, dodging opponents left and right. Finally, the teams reach their
bags- Kiyone and Mihoshi leading by a split second. Kiyone swings her bag
around her back as Mihoshi rips open the clue envelope.)
Mihoshi:
Head to the home of Mutsumi Otohime
on the other side of the bay.
(Jet
is reading the clue as Spike straps his bag on.)
Jet:
Two ferries have been chartered to take you there from the port in the nearby
town.
(Zoe is strapping her bag on while simultaneously reading
the clue.)
Zoe:
Hurry- each ferry only has enough room for six teams.
(Takuya
has his bag on and is already running into town.)
Takuya:
Then lets get a move on, baby!
(The
first teams off and running are those three, along with Yukino/Arima
and Misato/Ritsuko. Right on their heels are the teams of Syaoran/Meiling,
Ash/Brock, and Takato/Henry. Although Gary is making a good pace, Samuel is
lagging behind, as is Sakura & Tomoyo and Aeka
& Sasami.)
(Pre-trampling footage of Keitaro in front of the port.)
Keitaro: Teams must run almost a mile and find this port, where they will catch
one of two chartered ferries to the home of one of my study buddies Mutsumi Otohime. Each ferry can
only take six teams, and tickets are given on a first come, first serve basis.
Its important to make it on the first boat, since the second departs one hour
afterwards.
(Yukino and Arima are entering the
town, keeping their eyes towards the sea. Captions are listed in brackets, such
as)
[YUKINO & ARIMA- Dating Couple]
Yukino: (VO) None of the teams had any idea
where to go to find this place. We knew that obviously the place was near the
sea, so we just tried to stay along the shoreline as much as possible.
(Takuya
and Zoe are somewhere else in town, and are passed by
Misato and Ritsuko. Ritsuko looks back.)
[MISATO & RITSUKO- Government Officials]
Ritsuko: Do you know where it is?
Misato:
No! But we just have to stay ahead of them!
Ritsuko:
What good will that do if we dont know where it is?
Misato:
At least well be ahead of them!!
(Elsewhere,
Ash and Brock are wandering around, and reach a dead end.)
[ASH & BROCK- Pokmon Trainers]
Brock: We really should be hanging with the other teams right now; this is no
time for straying off.
(They
turn around.)
Ash:
I thought this was a shortcut
(They
enter a street, and see Syaoran/Meiling and Takato/Henry jogging down it, while
behind them, Gary/Samuel, Aeka/Sasami, and Sakura/Tomoyo are all walking down the street, trying to make sure
its the right direction. Quickly, Ash and Brock enter the street and jog neck
and neck with the first two teams.)
(Kiyone
and Mihoshi are walking towards the shore when Kiyone points and starts
running.)
[KIYONE & MIHOSHI- Galaxy Police Detectives]
Kiyone: I think I see it! Come on!
(Mihoshi
follows suit.)
Mihoshi:
Im right behind you!
(As
they get closer to the ferry operator, they see Spike and Jet, also running
aggressively. Both reach at about the same time. Kiyone and Spike
simultaneously slam their hands on the counter.)
Kiyone
/ Spike: We need to get on that ferry!
(The
ferryman slowly produces the sign-up sheet. He pulls a pen from his shirt
pocket and holds it out in-between Spike and Kiyone. They grab it
simultaneously. Jet and Mihoshi watch idly. After sparks fly for a couple
seconds, Spike gives up and lets it go. Kiyone quickly signs her and Mihoshis names in the top spot before slamming the pen
down. She sighs, brushes her hair, and walks away.)
Kiyone:
(content) Okay first boat Im happy Im calm
(Spike
signs his and Jets name.)
Spike:
(sotto) You coulda been calm when you yanked the pen
out of my hand.
Jet:
Did we make the boat?
Spike:
Hell, were the first ones here
Jet:
You know, I dont really have a problem with cops that are overly aggressive
like that. But I will say that those are the kind of cops that usually end up,
uh retiring early so to speak.
(Yukino and Arima, by doing it
their way, have arrived on the scene as well, but as theyre running towards
the sign-up sheet, Misato cuts them off. Ritsuko runs by them as well, beating the
two to the sheet.)
Yukino:
Bastards!
Arima:
Dont worry about it, Im sure were still on the first boat.
(They
jog up and sign in immediately after Misato and Ritsuko. Arima
smiles as his prediction is true.)
Misato:
(VO) Its all about positioning yourself early on. I knew that if we could get
off to a good start and make the first boat, then we can breathe a lot easier
later on.
(Joint confessional of Yukino and Arima.
Yukinos pissed.)
Yukino: I cant stand it! We had the best idea to get
there, and NERV lady shoves us aside! We signed in what? Fourth? Unacceptable!!
Arima:
(calmer) Its not really necessary. We all made the first boat easily. I dont
think we need to be that competitive this early.
(Takuya
and Zoe arrive. As Zoe
signs in, Takuya passively watches the road.)
[TAKUYA & ZOE- Digi-Destined- 5th Team on Ferry]
Zoe: Fifth to sign in means first boat. Primo!
(Takuya
begins to panic when he sees all of the other teams running towards the ferry,
still led by Syaoran/Meiling, Takato/Henry, and Ash/Brock. He grabs Zoes arm and gets out of their way.)
Takuya:
Here comes the cavalry!!
(The
race is heated, but Syaoran, Henry, Meiling, and Takato have a slight lead.
However, Meiling begins to slow eventually to a walk. Takato and Henry,
meanwhile, speed up to a sprint, surpass Syaoran, and make it to the ferry.
Takato takes the pen and the sheet.)
Takato:
Come on yes!
(Takato
looks at Henry.)
Takato:
Were sixth!
(Takato
and Henry slide by, allowing Syaoran, Brock, and Gary to sign in for the second
boat. Takato and Henry are clearly happy, and arent ashamed to express it.
Gary mutters as he signs in immediately after Brock, just as the last two teams
arrive.)
Gary:
Yeah, yeah, rub it in. Im sure Takato and Henry are tickled pink to make it on
the first boat, but Grandpa and Ill find a way to catch up to them- just wait!
Henry:
We are happy about it. Its a huge load off my mind. Its very important to be
in the lead pack right away. By beating the Lis by a few seconds, we end up
gaining an hour on them. Thats huge.
----
(The
teams board the first ferry as Keitaro narrates.)
Keitaro: (VO) All the teams have signed onto one of the two ferries. The first
ferry carries Kiyone & Mihoshi, Spike & Jet, Misato & Ritsuko, Yukino & Arima, Takuya & Zoe, and Takato & Henry. The second ferry, leaving an
hour later, carries Syaoran & Meiling, Ash & Brock, Gary & Samuel,
Aeka & Sasami, and Sakura & Tomoyo.
(Keitaro
is standing with Mutsumi near the clue box, by the
yellow-and-red route marker. She simply smiles, although she has no idea whats
going on.)
Keitaro: Teams need to find their way here, to Mutsumis
front yard.
Mutsumi:
Kei-kun? Who are you talking to?
(On
the first ferry, some teams begin to mingle. Takato and Takuya are chatting,
while Zoe talks with Kiyone and Mihoshi. Meanwhile, Arima is standing alone starboard side, speaking directly
to the camera.)
Arima: I
tend to be more calm than Yukino. She tends to act
pretty sweet, and shes the perfect lady when shes around other people. But
shes actually quite competitive. In fact
(Arima looks over, to see that Yukino
is standing by what would become the exit ramp.)
Arima:
Shes already got a claim to the exit ramp so she can be the first off the boat.
(Yukino is smiling very politely, seemingly standing about
with no ill intentions. Ritsuko walks past her and takes note. After glancing
at Yukino for two seconds, she continues on.)
Ritsuko:
Youre not fooling anybody.
(Yukino ignores the statement until Ritsuko is good and
gone, then she looks down angrily.)
Yukino:
(pissed) Dammit, shes on to me
(The
first boat pulls in and the teams are let off. Chaos ensues once more as
halfway down the ramp, Mihoshi trips, sending not only herself down, but
knocking Kiyone and Arima down in the process. Takato
and Henry dodge out of the way, just avoiding the fracas and getting ahead.
While Spike, Jet, Takuya, and Zoe take off, Yukino is forced to wait for her partner. Misato and
Ritsuko, and later Takato and Henry, run past her.)
Yukino: Arima!!
(Arima and Kiyone get up. Kiyone stays behind to get Mihoshi
up while Arima runs towards his partner.)
Arima:
Coming!
(Arima merely jogs, forcing Yukino
to do the same. Shes not happy about it though.)
Arima:
(VO) I want to save my energy until its really needed. Were in the lead pack,
and we dont have to go full steam at every turn.
(Meanwhile,
Kiyone is trying to catch up to them, but Mihoshi is keeping them back, walking
instead of running.)
Kiyone:
Come on Mihoshi! Thanks to you we have to play catch up now!!
(Mihoshi
pouts a little, then starts jogging.)
Mihoshi:
But Kiyone! Were ahead of the other group, its okay if were not the first
ones there!
(Kiyones still running.)
Mihoshi:
Kiyone! This isnt a race!!
Kiyone:
I knew that my biggest challenge for me in this race would be my partner. Shes
a complete klutz, as everybody clearly saw back there on the boat. Ive learned
to always keep that in the back of mind, so that I can account for her Mihoshi
moments.
(The
first team at Mutsumis is Takuya and Zoe, with Spike and Jet right on their tails. Takuya opens
the envelope.)
Takuya:
Route info go to the city of Naha and find the route marker along the
boardwalk.
(As
he, Zoe, Spike, Misato, and Ritsuko run by, Mutsumi stands outside with tea cups.)
Mutsumi:
Would anybody like some tea?
(Only
Zoe grabs a cup and continues to run.)
Zoe: Gracie!
(Zoe drinks it while running. Mutsumi
offers to Takato and Henry, who pass. Mutsumi is left
confused.)
Mutsumi:
Its good tea
(Rapid
shots of a cab driving to a dock.)
Keitaro: Teams need to get to the city of Naha by taking one of the boats that
leaves Nago
every hour. Cabs are awaiting the teams, but teams must tell them where to go
and pay them of course.
(Misato
and Ritsuko climb into a cab.)
[MISATO & RITSUKO- Currently in 3rd Place]
Misato: Nago?
(The
cab takes off.)
Ritsuko:
I dont think were in an incredible hurry right now.
Misato:
Were ahead of a few teams, were good for the moment.
Ritsuko:
We spend our careers supervising battles with the fate of humanity at stake. We
have to be very shrewd about our decisions. We have to know what battles are
worth fighting for. Sometimes, the best bet is to stay calm and be prepared for
the next encounter.
(Spike
and Jets cab is approaching the docks. Spike sees one docked boat.)
[SPIKE & JET- Bounty Hunters- Currently in First Place]
Spike: Think thats ours?
Jet:
If it is, wed better hurry to catch it.
Spike:
(to the driver) Hey, could you step on it?
(Takuya
and Zoe see the cab ahead of them speed up.)
[TAKUYA & ZOE- Currently in 2nd Place]
Takuya: Theyre speeding up.
Zoe:
Driver, can you keep up with them? We need to stay on their toes.
(A
bit behind them, Takato and Henrys cab passes somebody.)
Takato:
Could you see who it was?
Henry:
Uh it looked like the NERV girls.
[TAKATO & HENRY- Digimon Tamers- Currently in 3rd Place]
Takato: I see a boat over there.
Henry:
If thats ours, we gotta make it.
Takato:
Were hitting the ground running, thats for sure.
(At
the port, Spike & Jet hustle towards the ticket counter. Takuya & Zoe are right behind them.)
Jet:
Is that boat going to Naha?
Ticket
Guy: Sure is.
Spike:
Any tickets?
Ticket
Guy: Sure are.
Jet:
Get us on there then.
Ticket
Guy: Sure thing!
(The
ticket guy gets tickets ready for them, and Takuya who reaches the counter
asking the same thing. Both teams get their tickets with no hassle. Takuya
flashes the tickets at Zoe.)
Takuya:
Got em!
Zoe: All
right!
(Zoe hugs Takuya.)
Takuya:
Now comes the best part!
(Zoe releases.)
Takuya:
Watching the other teams not making it!
Takuya:
For a girl, Zoe seems to get along with me well
enough to get by. We dont really have that romantic misunderstanding problem
that seems to bother other teams like us. Do we like each other? Heck, we can
barely tolerate each other!
(The
boat is blasting its horn, signaling that its ready to depart. Takato and
Henry fly out of the cab. Takato grabs both his and Henrys bags as Henry pays
the driver. Takato hands Henry his bag and both run frantically towards the
ticket counter.)
Takato:
Can we still make it on the boat to Naha?
(The
ticket guy again prepares tickets.)
Ticket
Guy: Youll have to hurry
(Henry
checks the amount and gets the appropriate amount of money out. Takato gets the
tickets and theyre off running.)
Takato
/ Henry: Thank you!!
(Follow
them as they make a run for the boat. The ramp is being sealed off.)
Takato:
Wait!!!
Henry:
We have tickets.
(They
are allowed on at the last second.)
Henry:
Thank you so much
(They
get on and are greeted by Takuya and Zoe. Takato and
Takuya high-five.)
Takuya:
Welcome aboard, buddy.
Henry:
Who else made it?
Zoe: Just
us and the cowboys.
(They
all turn towards the shoreline as the ramp is again lifted. They cheer as the
boat takes off.)
Henry:
(containing excitement) And I see a couple taxis.
(Takuya
looks closer and sees Yukina & Arima and Misato & Ritsuko exiting the cabs.)
Takuya:
Looks like the Anno teams.
Zoe: (waving)
Ciao!!
Takato:
It was a very unique adventure that we went through, and its nice to have a
team like Takuya and Zoe who at least understand a
little of what we did. Were not really working together, but were definitely
pushing each other to do well. Its more of a friendly competition between us.
(On
the second ferry, the two Cardcaptor teams are chatting.)
Sakura: (VO) Were thinking of working together with Li and Meiling. Were
friends with them and it doesnt make sense to try racing against them when we
have all these other teams to worry about.
Meiling:
Sakura and Tomoyo didnt even beat Team Princess to
the ferry. They need our help.
(The
second teams are released and none of these ten are even thinking of relaxing
on their way to Mutsumis. Random shots of each of
the five teams running to Mutsumis. Sakura, Tomoyo, Syaoran, and Meiling are sticking together.
Unfortunately, theyre also bringing up the rear. The first teams to arrive at Mutsumis are Ash/Brock and Gary/Samuel, although Samuel is
really out of breath. Gary reads the clue while his grandfather takes a
breather.)
[GARY & SAMUEL- Grandson / Grandfather- Currently in 8th Place]
Gary: Boats to Naha leave from Nago every hour
Mutsumi:
(to Samuel) Would you like some tea?
Samuel:
Oh my thank you, dear.
(Samuel
takes a cup and starts to drink. By now, Ash and Brock have left while Aeka and
Sasami have arrived.)
Gary:
Grandpa! We gotta get going!
(Samuel
quickly gulps the rest down and sets the cup on Mutsumis
tray. They take off alongside Aeka & Sasami, but
before Sakuya/Tomoyo or Syaoran Meiling leave. As
Gary & Samuel get a cab, Samuel narrates.)
Samuel:
(VO) I consider myself very fit for my age. Unfortunately, it seems that Im
not all that fit compared to many of the younger fellows in the race. This is a
lot of running for an old man.
(Aeka
and Sasami get into a cab and it takes off.)
[AEKA & SASAMI- Sisters / Jurian Princesses-
Currently in 9th Place]
Aeka: Please drive as fast as you can.
Sasami:
Yes, it would help us oh so much!
(The
cab speeds up and passes Gary & Samuel. Aeka narrates as they sit back and
enjoy the ride.)
Aeka:
(VO) I was a little nervous having to take care of young Sasami
during the race. But Ive calmed down significantly. You see, several of the
other teams have boys and girls Sasamis age, and
perhaps having a big sister like myself with Sasami
would be an advantage.
(Sakura
and Tomoyo are also in a cab. Tomoyo
sees the second boat off in the distance.)
[SAKURA & TOMOYO- Best Friends- Currently in Last Place]
Tomoyo: That could be the boat to Naha.
Sakura:
Hoe its so far away do you think well make it?
Tomoyo:
Im sure we will Sakura!
Tomoyo: As long as Sakuras spirits are high, she can do absolutely anything.
We cant get down on ourselves if anything bad happens.
(Meiling
also sees the boat some distance away. She sits back along with Syaoran, both
trying to stay calm.)
[SYAORAN & MEILING- Cousins- Currently in 10th Place]
Syaoran: (VO) Were in an alliance with Kinomoto
and Daidouji right now, but were also behind
everybody else. I dont want to think that working together is going to keep us
back, but unless it starts to pay off, Meiling and I may have to move on and
pass them.
(Yukino & Arima, Misato &
Ritsuko, and Kiyone & Mihoshi are boarding the second boat.)
Arima: Do
you think any of the teams from the second ferry will make it?
Kiyone:
Man, I hope not.
Misato:
Doesnt really bother me. Its a win-win situation.
Kiyone:
Why do you say that?
Misato:
Well, we obviously are way ahead if they miss the boat. But if they make it
well get to watch them scrambling like mad to get on here in time!
Mihoshi:
That should be fun!
(Ash
& Brocks cab is the first to pull into the docks.)
[ASH & BROCK- Currently in 7th Place]
Brock: Right in here thanks.
(They
get out and start running.)
(The
teams on the boat have left their stuff inside and Misato and Mihoshi are
watching Ash and Brock run to the ticket counter. Mihoshi narrates as if it was
a horse race.)
Mihoshi:
And theyre off! Theyre heading to the ticket counter waiting for their
tickets. Theyre getting impatient.
Misato:
Oh! Ash drops the money that could cost them some time.
Mihoshi:
He gets it back and pays. Theyve got the tickets and now its a sprint for the
boat theyre nearing the home stretch they round the corner and charge up the
ramp... here they come!
(They
both turn to see Ash and Brock run up the ramp and board the boat right next to
them. They run past without acknowledging Misato or Mihoshi. Misato swings her
arms out.)
Misato:
SAFE!!
(Mihoshi
looks back at the dock.)
Mihoshi:
Theyre in, but can anyone else make it? Here comes another taxi and its Aeka
and Sasami!
(Indeed,
Aeka and Sasami are now running the gauntlet. They
reach the ticket counter when the boat signals that its ready to depart.
Concerned, Sasami starts running to the ramp,
followed closely by Aeka, running about as fast as she runs. Mihoshi calls out
to them.)
Mihoshi:
Go Aeka! You can do it!!
(Aeka
speeds up slightly, and makes it just in time. She slows down and walks up the
ramp. Sasami, however, continues to run, until she
reaches Mihoshi, greeting her with a hug.)
Sasami:
Mihoshi! We made it!!
Mihoshi:
That was some good running!
(Aeka
reaches the boat, the ramp is pulled up, and the boat begins to take off.)
Aeka:
(winded) Yes. Well we promised ourselves that we would put forth a serious
effort in this race regardless how high the exertion.
Mihoshi:
Well, you did good. Come on, lets find Kiyone!
(Back
on the dock, Gary and Samuel rush to the ticket counter.)
Gary:
We need to get to Naha.
Ticket
Guy: Aw you just missed the boat. Next one leaves in an hour.
(Gary
is shocked, and runs over to see the second boat, a good thirty yards away from
the docks. Its gone. Gary is bewildered. Samuel simply shakes his head.)
Gary:
What do we do now?
----
(Pan
across the boardwalk along Naha, and show the clue and route marker.)
Keitaro: (VO) Teams need to take one of three boats to Naha and find this route
marker along the boardwalk.
(Shot
of the first boat, and the teams on it.)
Keitaro:
(VO) The first boat carries Spike & Jet, Takuya & Zoe,
and Takato & Henry.
(Shot
of the second boat, and the teams on it.)
Keitaro:
(VO) Riding the second boat, which departed one hour after the first, are Yukino & Arima, Misato &
Ritsuko, Kiyone & Mihoshi, Ash & Brock, and Aeka & Sasami.
(Shot
of the third boat, and the teams boarding it.)
Keitaro:
(VO) On the third boat, which departs two hours after the first one, are Gary
& Samuel, Sakura & Tomoyo, and Syaoran &
Meiling.
(The
first boat docks. The three teams rush after the route marker again. It is only
a few hundred feet from the dock, and isnt much of a run. Once again, Takuya
and Zoe are the first to get there. Zoe opens the envelope.)
[TAKUYA & ZOE- Currently in 1st Place]
Zoe: Route info get yourselves to Tokyo University
by booking one of two flights leaving Naha Airport for Tokyo.
Takuya:
Alright, back to the mainland!
(Rapid
shots of a plane flying through the air. Mitsune Konno takes over narration
duties.)
Mitsune: (VO) Teams must now fly more than 900 miles to Tokyo and reach Tokyo
U., the prestigious university and cause of just about everybodys problems. To
get there, teamsll need to take one of two flights
out of Naha, each leaving two hours apart. However, theres only enough tickets
reserved for the first flight for four teams.
(Spike
and Jet reach the clue after both Digimon teams run ahead.)
Spike:
one of two flights leaving Naha Airport for Tokyo.
Jet:
(starting to run) Here we go again
Spike:
Hold on a minute Im not done. It says here the first flight doesnt leave for
another two hours, and that theres enough seats for four teams.
(Jet
stops and scratches his head.)
Jet:
Man, kids are stupid.
Spike:
There were only three teams on our boat, theres seating for four teams and it
doesnt leave for two hours. Why are those kids running? As long as we get
there before the other boat arrives, were fine.
(Theres
some wheeling and dealing meanwhile on the second boat, as Aeka and Sasami are talking to Kiyone and Mihoshi outside. Sasamis mostly enjoying the breeze though.)
Kiyone: So whos on that last boat? Anybody we should worry about?
Aeka:
Well, lets see Gary and Samuel were behind us. I dont know if we have to
worry about them. But the two younger teams- Sakura & Tomoyo
and the two Li cousins. They seem to have formed a coalition of sorts.
Mihoshi:
Maybe we should work together too.
Sasami:
Yeah! That would be great! At least for a little while?
Kiyone:
Eh, why not? Im sure it couldnt hurt to help you two out for awhile.
Mihoshi:
An alliance with Aeka and Sasami is perfect! Were in
the Galaxy Police, so we have all sorts of experience dealing with tough
situations. Now we can help our friends do the same!
(Naha
Airport. Takato and Henry immediately have the right counter pinpointed and get
in line.)
Takato:
(smiling) For the first time in my life, Im actually glad I have relatives
here!
Henry:
Always helps to be in familiar territory.
(Takuya
and Zoe get in line behind them.)
Zoe: This
the right line?
(Takato
and Henry frown.)
Henry:
Or not
(The
second boat arrives in Naha and the umpteenth mad scramble of the day begins.
Ash & Brock win this round, followed closely by the Tenchi quartet. They
all read the clue. Ash and Brock head off to find a taxi. Mihoshi and Sasami begin to follow them.)
Kiyone:
Hold on, lets go see if theres a shuttle from the seaport.
Aeka:
A bus?
Kiyone:
Sure, its a lot cheaper, thats for sure.
(The
foursome turn around and run back to the port.)
Sasami: (VO) This is why its nice to have Kiyone and Mihoshi on our side!
(Yukino and Arima read the clue.)
[YUKINO & ARIMA- Currently in 7th Place]
Yukino: (watching the Tenchi group) Where the heck
are they going?
Arima: I
think theres a bus from the port.
Yukino: No
lets take a taxi. We might be able to make that first flight.
(Misato
& Ritsuko decide to head for the bus.)
Misato:
(VO) We decided to go with the bus. We figured it was cheaper. And hell, it
might even be faster.
(Yukino and Arima jump into a cab
and immediately spot Ash and Brocks cab rushing to the airport.)
Yukino:
Please go as fast as you can!
Arima: We
need to get ahead of that cab in front of us.
(The
cab starts picking up speed, and gets into the fast lane of the divided
highway.)
Yukino:
Yes! Come on, come on
(Meanwhile,
Ash and Brock are doing an equal job trying to persuade their driver to step on
it.)
Brock:
Theyre catching up, you have to stay ahead of them!
(As
much as the driver tries, Yukino and Arimas cab starts to overtake them. Ash looks out the right
window at them. Yukino has her really, really, super
evil demonic face pressed against her window and is staring back at Ash. Ash
looks straight ahead and gulps.)
Ash:
I did not see that.
(Meanwhile,
about ten minutes later, the shuttle has arrived. Kiyone, Mihoshi, Aeka, Sasami, Misato, and Ritsuko board. Misato drops some change
into the machine, somewhat unsettled.)
Ritsuko:
At least its still cheaper
(At
the airport terminal, Spike has the tickets for the first flight secured, and
is loitering around. Jet arrives and hands him a meat bun.)
Spike:
Oh yeah we have spending money to eat now. Thats refreshing
(Jet
points at the entrance.)
Jet:
Sos this
(Ash
and Yukino are angrily rubbing cheeks as they entered
at the same time, flanked by
Brock and Arima. All four frantically search for the
right counter.)
Spike:
(his mouth full) This oughtta be good
(The
two teams finally reach the desk they believe to be correct. They are helped by
different clerks and both encourage the clerks to step on it.)
Ash:
Come on we need to get on this flight
Yukino:
1,000 yen if we get on
(Finally
one of the teams is confirmed.)
Clerk:
Youre in!
(Yukino smiles kindly.)
Yukino:
Thank you so very much, youve been most helpful.
(Arima smiles and picks up the tickets. Yukino
skips away merrily.)
Yukino:
(singing) Gonna win the race gonna
win the race
(A
dejected Brock and an angry Ash watch her skip away, followed by Arima.)
Ash:
Im really starting to hate that woman.
Ash:
Just just dont go there. Shell get hers hopefully.
Brock:
You know shes kinda cute when shes not trying to crush your dreams.
(The
third boat drops off their load. Gary and Samuel lead the way towards the route
marker)
[GARY & SAMUEL- Currently in 9th Place]
Gary: (VO) At this point, were desperate. The last place I want to be is
stuck in the last group with these Cardcaptor kids. So were pretty much ready
to do anything right now.
(Gary
and Samuel are in the cab to the airport. Garys fingering through the clue
envelope.)
Samuel:
Well, I dont think we have to worry. We should make the second plane with no
trouble and we could catch up from there.
Gary:
I have a better idea
(Gary
hands Samuel an envelope. Samuel looks at it.)
Samuel:
Really?
(Gary
nods.)
Samuel:
Are you sure?
Gary:
Very sure.
(Samuel
thinks about it for a second, then makes his decision.)
Samuel:
First I want to see what the airports like.
(Keitaro
explains what theyre talking about by holding out a green envelope marked
Fast Forward.)
Keitaro: Theres only one Fast Forward hidden on each leg of the race. The
first team that finds it can skip all tasks and go directly to the Pit Stop. However,
once a team uses the Fast Forward, that team can never use another one for the
rest of the race, so they need to decide when it's most advantageous to go for
it.
(Rapid
shots of a cab driving to an airbase, followed by rapid shots of walking
towards Dr. Seta.)
Keitaro:
(VO) To win the Fast Forward on this leg, teams must travel to the nearby Futenma Airbase and find archeologist Dr. Seta. Once found,
he will hand over the Fast Forward.
(Teams
begin to board the first plane. Getting on are Takato/Henry, Takuya/Zoe, Spike/Jet, and Yukino/Arima.
After being seated, Takuya and Yukino dance in the
aisles, happy to be in the lead group.)
(Meanwhile,
Ash and Brock walk through the airport terminal. The pass Sakura and Tomoyo, enjoying ice cream cones.)
Brock:
Hey, you girls on the second plane?
(Both
nod.)
Brock:
Thanks
Ash:
Thats everybody except
(Samuel
sees them and rushes up to them.)
Brock:
Professor Oak!
Samuel:
Hey there!
Ash:
Wheres Gary?
Samuel:
Hes in the cab. I think that were going to go for the Fast Forward.
Ash:
Really?
Samuel:
Yeah. We got stuck in last, so were going to use it now and be done with it.
Brock:
Hmm well Im not going to argue with your strategy. Good luck.
Samuel:
Why thank you. Same to you.
(Samuel
runs off.)
Ash:
Wow
Brock:
It surprised me a little to hear that theyre going for the Fast Forward. Its
so early in the race, and I think using it now could hurt them later on.
(The
first plane takes off. Pan down to the ground, and follow Gary & Samuels
cab as they head towards the airbase. They reach it, and begin to look around
for Dr. Seta.)
[FAST FORWARD- Find Dr. Seta]
Gary: Well, youre a professor Grandpa. Where is he?
Samuel:
There he is!
(Samuel
walks towards the man and extends a hand.)
Samuel:
Dr. Seta I presume?
Seta:
Thats me. Are you here for what I think youre here for?
Gary:
Thats right.
Seta:
Well then, I dont want to keep you waiting.
(Seta
pulls out the Fast Forward and gives it to Samuel. Gary smiles as Samuel opens
the envelope.)
Samuel:
Congratulations, you have won the Fast Forward. Go directly to the Pit Stop-
the Hinata Inn just outside of Tokyo.
(Rapid
shots of a plane in the air. Naru Narusegawa
narrates.)
Naru: (VO) Having won the Fast Forward, Gary and
Samuel can now skip all tasks and go directly to the Pit Stop
(Naru is standing at the springs at the inn.)
Naru:
The Hinata Inn. They will get here by a direct
flight chartered by Mr. Seta.
(The
first plane arrives in Tokyo. The teams do all that boring stuff that never
gets aired and are out the door. Yukino and Arima are the first ones to successfully hail a cab.)
Arima: (VO) As soon as we landed we were
flying again. We have to grab a cab and get over to Toudai.
(Takuya
and Zoe are next, followed by Takato and Henry.)
[TAKUYA & ZOE- Currently in 2nd Place]
Zoe: (VO) We didnt mind second place, but
we really wanted to stay ahead of the other Digimon kids. They seem to be such
a good team it really says something if Takuya and I of all people can beat
them.
(Spike
and Jet bring up the rear.)
[SPIKE & JET- Currently in 4th Place]
Jet: (to the driver) You uh you know where this is, right?
Jet:
Were not from around here. And thats a real problem early on when it comes to
riding in cabs and stuff. We figure that if we can at least hang in the middle
until we get into something more our atmosphere, preferably one without an
atmosphere at all, were good.
(Gary
and Samuel are aboard the chartered flight, enjoying themselves.)
Gary: Man is Ash going to be surprised!!
Samuel:
Actually, Gary, while we were in the airport I told Ash and Brock we were doing
this. I hope they didnt mind.
Gary:
Aw, that takes part of the fun away.
Samuel:
Well, I think coming in first after being that far behind is still pretty fun.
Gary:
Amen, Grandpa.
Gary:
(VO) Yeah, its true that Im a little disappointed that Grandpa told Ash we
took it. But it just means that I wont get to see that surprised look when he
finds out we beat him!
(Yukino and Arima arrive at Toudai. Yukino admires the big
university as Arima reads the clue.)
[YUKINO & ARIMA- Currently in First Place]
Yukino: (VO) You know, Toudais
almost a dream of mine. My grades are definitely good enough to get me in, but
my familys very middle class, and Im also the oldest of three girls. Were
not planning to go all out to fund my college education.
Arima: (reading)
Go to Hinata Springs Town and find the route marker
near the old bridge.
Yukino:
See you soon Toudai!
(The
two jump back in the taxi.)
(Mitsune
is standing by the route marker at the bridge in Hinata
Town.)
Mitsune: Teams must now take a cab almost ten miles to the Hinata
Springs Town, where theyll find this route marker by the bridge.
(The
second plane is about to land. Kiyone leans across the aisle and turns to
Aeka.)
Kiyone:
Okay, when this lands, were going to have to really move to get cabs before
everybody else.
Aeka:
Understood.
Brock:
(VO) So right now, the Cardcaptors have an alliance,
the Tenchi girls have an alliance, and I dont what the heck is going on with
the Digimon gang since we havent seen them since they beat us to the ferry. It
definitely makes me a little uncomfortable, but hopefully those alliances will
be more of a burden than anything else.
(Its
a relatively short drive, so Yukino and Arima are also the first to arrive at the bridge. Yukino does the honors this time.)
Yukino: Detour choose between Old School or New Age.
(A yellow
envelope marked Detour is held out.)
Kitsune: (VO) A Detours a choice between two tasks, each with its own pros and
cons. In this Detour, teams need to choose between Old School and New Age.
(Shot
of kendo girl Motoko Aoyama practicing her trade.)
Kitsune: (VO) In Old School, teams will need to line up in front of a boulder
as Motoko practices a Shinmei Ryu
attack called Zanmaken ni
no tachi. If executed properly, the attack will
slice through the boulder, leaving the team completely unharmed.
(Show
Kitsune walking in the vicinity of Motoko.)
Kitsune: If not executed properly
(Kitsune
looks down at little Shinobu Maehara,
in a little nurses outfit and with a tray of bandages.)
Kitsune:
Shinobu-chans got band-aids.
(Over to a different street in town, and a mecha the
size of a bus walking down it.)
Kitsune: (VO) In New Age, teams must climb into the cockpit of a mecha designed by our resident techie Kaolla
Su. Together they must steer the mech fifty yards
forward, turn it around, and go fifty yards back. The mecha
is extremely unwieldy and tough to control, but theres no physical risk
involved.
(Yukino observes Motoko for a few seconds. Arima is reading the card.)
Yukino: Arima, youre really strong at kendo, what do you think?
Arima:
Yeah, Im really strong at kendo and what theyre saying here this isnt
possible. Were doing the mecha.
(Yukino and Arima go off in the
other direction as the two Digimon teams arrive at the scene.)
Takato:
I could go either one, what do you say?
Henry:
Well do kendo, its faster.
Takuya:
Zoe?
Zoe: (looking
at Motoko) Um she looks kinda scary
Takuya:
We gotta pick something.
Zoe: Hold
on, hold on
(Takuya
grabs her wrist.)
Takuya:
Were doing the kendo. Its all about facing the fears, you know?
Zoe: I I
guess.
(The
second plane touches down and teams are looking for cabs. Misato makes enough
noise and gets herself and Ritsuko into the first cab. Ash and Brock are soon
to follow. The allied teams have a little trouble, until Sakura successfully
flags down two, one for herself and Tomoyo, the other
for Syaoran and Meiling. Inside Sakura and Tomoyos,
the cab driver seems very nice.)
Driver:
So where to little ladies?
Tomoyo:
(extremely cute) Tokyo University and could you please floor it?
Sakura:
Hoe?
(Sakuras
head reels back as the driver obeys Tomoyos
instructions.)
(Meanwhile,
Kiyone and Mihoshi were finally able to get a cab. Kiyone gets in immediately.)
Mihoshi:
Wait, what about Aeka and Sasami?
(Kiyone
looks back. The Jurians are also able to get one.)
Kiyone:
Theyre good, lets go.
(Takato
and Henry are the first to line up for Motokos
attack. They step up to the boulder.)
Henry:
Wow didnt think theyd try to kill you in the first challenge.
Takato:
No kidding.
Motoko:
Ready?
Takato:
Yeah
Motoko:
(attacking) Zanmaken ni no tachi!!
(The
attack drives through the fearful Takato and Henry.)
Kitsune:
All done!
(Takato
and Henry open their eyes. Theyre both fine.)
Henry:
Did you really do it?
Kitsune:
Turn around
(Takato
and Henry turn around. The boulder is toast. Takato mumbles incoherently as
Mitsune hands Henry the next clue. He struggles, then gets it open.)
Henry:
Walk to the Pit Stop, on the grounds of the Hinata
Inn
(Henry
slowly walks away, almost dragging Takato behind.)
Mitsune:
Next!
(Takuya
and Zoe are equally vexed.)
Zoe:
Well time to face your fears right?
Takuya:
I, uh I guess so.
(Rapid
shots down the streets of Hinata, through an alley,
up a long set of stairs, to the Hinata in, and the
brown mat indicating the Pit Stop.)
Naru: (VO) Teams must now walk less than a mile and
find the Hinata Inn, the Pit Stop for this leg of the
race. The last team to arrive will be eliminated.
(At
said Hinata Inn, Gary and Samuel have arrived from
the Fast Forward and are checking in, calmly stepping on the mat. Naru is greeting them, as is a route marker with a screen
on it. On the screen, in large green letters, is LOVE HINA. Right above that,
in small white letters, is HINATA INN.)
Naru:
Welcome to the Hinata Inn.
Gary:
Lay it on me
(Naru is slightly annoyed, but drops it and smiles.)
Naru:
Gary and Samuel youre team number one.
(Samuel
smiles.)
Gary:
Was there ever a doubt?
(Spike
and Jet have apparently decided to go mecha, and
arrive to see Kaolla watching Yukino
and Arima go at it. Theyre having a lot of difficulties
with Mecha-Miyazawa, and have trouble walking in a
straight line, or even walking period.)
Kaolla:
You guys do better?
Jet:
God, I hope so.
(Takato
and Henry arrive on the mat.)
Naru:
Takato and Henry- youre team number two.
(Takato
and Henry both smile and high-five.)
Henry:
That makes the kendo blast worth it.
(Mecha-Bebop, fortunately, is operating much more smoothly,
with Spike and Jet having a much easier time than Yukino
and Arima. Inside, Spike and Jet are communicating
pretty well.)
Spike: (VO) The mecha didnt really bother us. I
guess were both familiar with stuff like that. I guess we also work pretty
well together when you think about it.
(Meanwhile,
Yukino and Arima finally
get theirs across the finish line. Kaolla opens the
hatch, and two puddles of goo that were Yukino and Arima. Kaolla hands one puddle a clue with her bare feet.)
Kaolla:
Bad work but youre done!
(Yukino quickly reverts back to her normal form, takes the
clue and opens it.)
Yukino:
(reading) Walk to the Pit Stop at the Hinata Inn
(She
starts running.)
Yukino:
Come on Arima!!
(Arima slowly goes back, lagging behind.)
Arima:
Coming
(Takuya
and Zoe jump on the mat.)
Naru:
Takuya and Zoe youre team number three.
Zoe:
Well, that wasnt so painful lets eat!
(Syaoran
and Meilings cab is trying to keep up with Sakura
and Tomoyos, which is seriously moving.)
[SYAORAN & MEILING- Currently in 9th Place]
Meiling: Now this is fun!!
Syaoran:
I think Im getting motion sickness
(They
pass Ash and Brock to advance to eighth.)
(At
the Pit Stop, Yukino and Arima
check in.)
Naru: Yukino and Arima youre team
number four.
(Arima seems happy, but Yukino
seems dissatisfied.)
Yukino: (polite)
Can I have a recount?
Naru: No
you cant excuse me.
(Naru motions them off to the side so Spike and Jet can
check in.)
Spike:
Let me guess team number five.
Naru:
(sarcastic) Oh my, you can count. (normal) Yes, youre team number five.
(The
second group is nearing now, as Misato & Ritsuko read the Detour.)
[MISATO & RITSUKO- Currently in 6th Place]
Ritsuko: We cant operate mecha, were not fourteen.
Were doing the kendo.
Misato:
Right.
(They
walk towards Motoko as Sakura and Tomoyo arrive, soon
followed by Syaoran & Meiling.)
Tomoyo:
The kendo should be faster.
Sakura:
But but
(Syaoran
reads the card.)
Syaoran:
The kendos definitely faster.
Sakura:
But but
Meiling:
Cmon Kinomoto, were dragging you through this.
(Tomoyo and Meiling literally do have to drag Sakura to the
kendo.)
Sakura:
But but hoe!
(Sasami reads the clue at Tokyo University.)
[AEKA & SASAMI- Currently in Last Place]
Sasami: Go to Hinata
Springs Town and find the route marker by the old bridge.
Aeka:
Excellent
(Aeka
and Sasami return to the cab.)
Sasami: Hinata Springs, please?
Driver:
Okay I think I know where that is.
(He
starts driving)
Aeka:
You arent sure?
Driver:
Never had to drive there before. Do you know where youre going?
Aeka:
Actually, no. Weve never been there either.
Driver:
Okay. Well get you there eventually.
Aeka:
Eventually may not be fast enough
(Kiyone
and Mihoshi are at the kendo, and see Misato & Ritsuko lining up for
Motoko, with Sakuya & Tomoyo,
Syaoran & Meiling, and also Ash & Brock lined up behind them.)
Mihoshi:
Wheres Aeka and Sasami?
Kiyone:
I dont know, but were not getting anywhere if we have to wait for all these
teams to finish getting sliced. I think we should do the other one.
Mihoshi:
The mecha?
Kiyone:
Yeah. Aeka and Sasami are going to have to figure out
how to get past the other teams themselves.
(They
start running in the other direction.)
Kiyone:
(VO) You know, I hate to do that to them, but we have to think about winning
this race too. At the rate were going, it would have been us against Aeka and Sasami for elimination.
(Kiyone
and Mihoshi arrive at the mecha and hop in. After
starting out somewhat unsteady, they get it back together. Inside, Kiyone is
instructing Mihoshi.)
Kiyone:
Mihoshi, Ill try to handle all the controls, but I wont be able to keep my
eyes on the road. Could you tell me if Im going in a straight line.
Mihoshi:
Roger, partner.
(Working
together like this, they actually do a very good job navigating the robot.
Mihoshi jumps out, followed by Kiyone.)
Mihoshi:
Good work Kiyone!
(Kiyone
smiles.)
Kiyone:
Thanks Mihoshi. I guess you did pretty
(A
foot with a clue attached pops in between them. Kiyone takes the clue from Kaolla and reads it, forgetting her last statement.)
Kiyone:
Walk to the Pit Stop- the Hinata Inn. The last team
to arrive will be eliminated.
Mihoshi:
Lets get a move on!
(Kiyone
smiles again and they run off.)
(Misato
and Ritsuko walk up to the Pit Stop, admiring the Hinatasou
on their way.)
Ritsuko:
Nice place
Naru:
Welcome to the Hinata Inn.
Misato:
Hi.
Naru:
Misato and Ritsuko youre team number six.
(Misato
smiles and shakes her head.)
Misato:
Thanks I need a drink.
(Aeka
and Sasami arrive at the kendo line as Sakura and Tomoyo leave.)
Sasami:
Are you sure about this Aeka?
Aeka:
Yes, Sasami. Piloting a robot is much worse than
standing before a master swordswoman. I also believe this to be faster.
Sasami:
But wheres Kiyone and Mihoshi?
Motoko:
Zanmaken ni no tachi!!
(Motoko
attacks Syaoran and Meiling. This time, unfortunately, she doesnt quite pull
it off and Syaoran and Meiling are both airborne.)
----
(Motoko
watches Syaoran and Meiling land, then looks around nervously.)
Motoko:
Um sorry.
Mitsune:
Shinobu! Youre on!
(Shinobu runs towards Syaoran and Meiling.)
Shinobu:
Right Miss Kitsune
Mitsune:
(VO) Fortunately, as they race through each series, they also are subjected to
the physics of each series. Therefore, theyll be fine.
(Ash
and Brock watch the debacle.)
Brock:
I, uh was thinking of hitting on her I think I changed my mind.
(Sakura
and Tomoyo, holding hands, jump on the platform.)
Naru:
Sakura and Tomoyo youre team number seven.
Tomoyo:
Good work Sakura!
(They
hug quickly.)
Naru:
Kiyone and Mihoshi?
(Sakura
and Tomoyo step to the side as Kiyone and Mihoshi
check in.)
Kiyone:
I think we jumped a couple spots.
Naru: I
cant tell you that. I can tell you that youre team number eight.
Mihoshi:
Well take that!
(Syaoran
and Meiling have apparently been helped as theyre off to the Pit Stop.)
Mitsune:
Next!
(Ash
and Brock nervously step forward and stand in front of a boulder.)
Motoko:
Zanmaken ni no tachi!
(This
time, the attack works properly. Ash and Brock sigh in relief and are handed
the next clue. Aeka and Sasami are next, and they are
clearly nervous as well.)
Sasami:
Im scared Aeka
Aeka:
Hold my hand Sasami it will be all right.
(They
stand in front of the next boulder and hold hands. They close their eyes as
Motoko attacks. They hear the boulder behind them go kaput and open their
eyes.)
Sasami:
We did it!
Mitsune:
Yep, heres the clue.
(Aeka
opens it.)
Aeka:
Walk to the Pit Stop at the Hinata Inn the last team
to arrive will be eliminated
Sasami:
Uh oh what do we do?
(Aeka
straps her bag on and sees Ash and Brock, with a sizable lead.)
Aeka:
We have to catch up to them
(Syaoran
and Meiling, beaten up quite a beat, still manage to check in with Naru.)
Naru: I,
uh take it Motoko missed.
(Syaoran
nods.)
Naru: You
okay?
Meiling:
(wobbly) Moumantai
(Meiling
topples over. Naru looks at Syaoran.)
Naru:
Youre team number nine.
(Ash
and Brock spot an alley. Ash points down it.)
[ASH & BROCK- Currently in 10th Place]
Ash: I think its down here.
(Brock
taps Ash on the shoulder.)
Brock:
Ash, I think we have a problem.
Ash:
Whats that?
Brock:
Princesses at nine oclock!!
(Ash
looks to his left, and sees Aeka and Sasami charging
after them.)
Ash:
Waugh!!
(They
both start running. Aeka and Sasami continue to chase
them. They reach a long set of stairs.)
Brock:
(VO) We look behind us, and we have two princesses right on our heels. What the
heck do they feed them on Jurai?? One things for
sure, Ive never run away from girls so fast in my entire life.
(Both
teams begin to tire.)
Ash:
Brock Im getting tired.
Brock:
Just a little further Ash
Sasami: I
cant run any more Aeka
Aeka:
We have to try just pretend were climbing the stairs to the Masaki shrine.
(They
press on.)
(Over
at the Hinata, Naru waits
for the first team to step on the mat. Finally, they reach it as Ash and
Brock, completely exhausted, check in to the Pit Stop.)
Brock:
(panting) Ill uh Ill have to take a rain check on hitting on you.
Naru:
Good good for you. Youre team number ten.
(Both
sigh and walk away. Ash is a little disappointed.)
Brock:
Still in it
(By
now, Aeka and Sasami are walking, both are more
exhausted than disappointed.)
Naru:
(sadly) Aeka and Sasami you are the last team to
arrive.
(Sasami looks down sadly.)
Naru:
Youve both been eliminated.
Sasami:
Oh no
Aeka:
Its all right Sasami.
(They
sadly step off the platform.)
Aeka:
(VO) I think we did what we came to do. We fought as hard as we could, and
although our standing doesnt reflect that, we were at least in the thick of
everything.
Sasami: We certainly made Ash and Brock run for it!
Aeka:
Yes, the other teams had to at least earn their place. We definitely did not
limp to the finish line, thats for certain. We take great solace in knowing
that we were a competitive team, even if we were eliminated.
End of Episode One
Authors
Notes
If you havent figured it out already, the hosting duties will be handled by
the series involved. This was the Love Hina leg, so Keitaro, Mitsune, and Naru handled the job quite well. As much as we all love
Phil Keoghan, and his amazing ability to teleport
from location to location, I thought this had more local flavor to it.
Incidentally, the format of the race, as well as the game-play elements, almost
exactly mirror the real show. Many are turned off by the idea of being
eliminated by picking the wrong taxi driver, but I still prefer to stay
faithful to the series. However, since Im the one playing God and deciding who
wins and loses, I do make sure that the eliminations are due to one team
screwing up or other teams stepping up. In this case, Aeka and Sasami were eliminated because they didnt work as hard as Yukino/Arima to get on that first plane, didnt choose the
other Detour like Kiyone/Mihoshi, and didnt run as fast as Ash/Brock.
In case you hadnt noticed, the Cardcaptor Sakura teams are in sub-mode. Since
the dub has such radical differences that literally changes the relationship of
Syaoran and Meiling, Im using the sub. Complain all you want about the dubs of
Evangelion and Digimon Frontier (although Frontier
has shown great improvement lately), the characters are pretty much the same
both ways. Well maybe not Takuya, but I just feel more comfortable writing
with his dub character (and its not as extremely different, so it doesnt make
a drastic change).
Another cool benefit of being in dub mode is that I can now do inside jokes
with voice actors with the dub (almost all of my previous references involved
Japanese seiyuu). Veronica Taylor would get
laryngitis trying to voice both Ash and Yukino
in that airport scene.
Next Week on The Anime-zing Race:
* As teams get a double-dose of crack anime, will they all be able to stay
sane?
* Takato and Henry find themselves with more home-field advantage, but will
another team try to cash in on it as well?
* And after the Fast Forward gave Gary & Samuel a big boost, will other
teams be tempted to go for the next one?