ANIME AND VIDEO GAME SURVIVOR
CHAPTER EIGHT: THE CHOICE…POWER VS. POWER
O.K, we are down to 9, and 7 of these will be the jury, and now Helang are in some deep snow (wrestling/Mick Foley fans will get the joke, if not, doesn’t matter) to say the least. Can they get out of it?
But for now, let’s see what has happened….
* * * *
(shot of Misato arguing…hey, wait, forget that, let’s see what’s happening here…)
Misato: You’re letting me go?
Chromus: I’m sorry Misato, but we feel with the jury coming up, we need you to be unbiased and professional. Quite frankly, getting drunk on an island wasn’t exactly what I had in mind.
Misato: But I’m from your favourite anime! You’re not supposed to do this!
Chromus: Yes I can. Two reasons. One, I never expected for Shinji to get this far, so any bias towards him now is out of the question. And two…
Misato: Yes?
Chromus: Two, when I started this fic, I hadn’t been introduced to the wonders of Nadesico, but now I have (thank you very much ADV) and it is my new favourite so…(clicks fingers)…boys?
(A shot of the Biker club from Oh My Goddess comes in, and quick grabs Misato and carries her out)
Head sempei: Sorry, but it’s offical, no girls allowed!
Chromus: Er…right…besides I think it’s time for the girls to have some fun now…oh Akito?
(Shot of Akito Tenkawa entering the frame, as Misato is being carried off, cursing off some phrases which would have been edited if they were on the island)
Chromus: Ah, mister Akito? Why are you here…ignoring the author’s blatant Nadesico fandom…
Akito: I still don’t know how you got me here so fast?
Chromus: (whips out a chair from Anger space) Hey, when you got author powers, you use them. Now sir, even though none of your crew is on the island…
Akito: Thank god.
Chromus: ..just wait till next season. This means you can be an unbiased reporter and announcer. Don’t worry about Misato, she’ll be back for the final.
Akito: O.K, then, so what have I got to…
(Woman’s voice off screen: Hey, let me go!)
Chromus: Oh no…tell Misato that…
Akito: It’s not Misato.
(Indeed, a shot shows Yurika trying to get through but are being blocked by the guys. Akito sweatdrops as Chromus gets a look of embarrassment on his face.)
Chromus: Er…I think I’ll end this little skit and get to the island…
* * * *
(Shot of the island as Akito Tenkawa emerges from somewhere, with a smile on his face.)
Akito: New presenter and a new situation, but the same old island. 9 people remain and they all know that one of them could either be the winner, the loser or a member of the jury now. With Serena’s landslide eviction, a mutual consideration by both former tribes, now things get interesting. Ulah still hold the cards in a 5 to 4 advantage, and with Gohan and Akane’s feat at the last immunity, they need to go all out here to get the same kind of luck.
(Shot of the group. Day 20, time 6.34am.)
(Akito: People are starting to get used to the routine and waking up early in the morning being one of them. Many, like Tenchi, Julia, Sakura and Gohan like getting up to watch the sunrise, Julia has done it since day one for example, and the tribe together seems to be in unity. However, tribal loyalties are still in affect, and old Ulah and old Helang still have divisions.)
(Shot as Akane gets up groggy, and very tired.)
Akane: If I’d known the plan was to get rid of Serena, I wouldn’t have done that immunity for so long.
Gohan: You said it.
(Shot of Julia meditating)
Akane: How does she do it?
Gohan: Will power, nothing more.
(Duo starts to get up as Gohan smiles)
Gohan: Hey Duo, I never got to say thanks for proper last night.
Duo: (smiles) No problem. Of course, the next three days are new, and just be aware, O.K?
Gohan: Yeah, of course, Serena is a sacrifice worth making I suppose.
(Shot of Shinji cooking two crabs caught by Julia, with Sakura helping out)
Shinji: You know, my friend Touji says that Hikari, a friend of ours is a pretty good cook, I think she’d be better at this than I am.
Sakura: Oh come on Shinji, if you start doing that withdrawn act here, then…well, I dunno what I’ll do but it won’t be pleasant!
Shinji: (smiling) I guess you’re right, I just wonder if I can win this now. You have to think, you either have a chance to win or a chance to decide who wins.
Sakura: Hey, I never thought about it like that.
(Shinji: It never dawns on you that the end is coming soon, and we could win a million pounds. I wouldn’t know what to do with that money, however, it always bears thinking about)
(Shot of Chun-Li swimming about as Tenchi is clearing the beach off. Only Nene is still in the camp)
Tenchi: Hmm…well another three days to think about, I think though that this is officially more difficult to do now.
(Tenchi: As hard as it is for some people to accept, we’ve bonded with the former Helang, and to vote one of them off one at a time does seem harsh and cruel. However, if tribal loyalties remain, that is what will happen sadly. It’s up to them to try and do something about it.)
(Finally, the remaining straggler Nene, gets up)
Nene: Uggh…I hate being the last one up, makes me look like I’m the laziest now.
Akane: (smiles as her friend gets up) Hey, look at the bright side, at least they don’t think you’re a threat. (struggles a bit) Me, on the other hand…
Nene: (shouts) If anyone knows any massage techniques…and is female, can you help please?
(A very distant call is made, leaving the island in confusion)
Akane: Huh, what was that?
Nene: No idea.
(Chun escapes the water, and smiles as she ducks a punch from Duo)
Chun-Li: Ha, still too slow Maxwell!
Duo: Yeah, yeah, whatever. (Suddenly lunges and picks her up, Chun-Li screaming and laughing at the same time)
Chun: Hey, put me down!
Duo: Hmmm…nope. (And begins tickling her as she begins to laugh hysterically.)
(Duo: It’s gotten to a point that we know who are the chief members of the tribe and who they conspire with. Whilst the five of us are close, it’s me and Chun, Tenchi and Julia with Shinji as a go between between both of them. Then on Helang, you have the elders in Akane and Nene, and the youth in Gohan and Sakura. Each time a tribal council happens now, another one of that bond vanishes. It seems harsh, but if you want to win a million pounds, it’s necessary.)
(Duo finally puts Chun down so they can head for breakfast, crab and rice. Chun actually tears a crab claw and puts the runny fluid on her rice, which adds to the flavour.)
Tenchi: This is really good as usual, I don’t think we’ve lost as much weight as some other survivors to say the least.
Akane: With Julia on your side, how the heck could you ever starve? I just wish Ukyo was here with her okonomiyaki.
Gohan: Hey, we never starved either really, if you remember the chicken and the fish.
Duo: Oh yeah, I remember the chicken…lucky…lucky…
Sakura: (smiles) Hey, we needed that win!
Julia: Yeah…(slightly sad)…but…
Nene: Oh yeah. I’m sorry about that, I guess that wasn’t exactly easy for you to do.
Sakura: Yeah…we’re sorry.
Chun: Don’t be. He’s gone now, in a hotel probably or a hospital. It’s a shame, if he hadn’t gotten injured and things remained the same, it would have been Davis instead of Serena and I’m not sure if we’d have voted him off straight away.
Gohan/Akane: Really? (both pray to the heavens) Thank you lord!
(all snicker)
(Akane: It’s great that we’re getting along together, but one of us will be going in three days, and considering how sore I am, immunity will be difficult. I need a lot of luck with me.)
(Julia: The first reward challenge is coming up, the first single reward, and in this stage of game, any form of reward will hope someone majorly.)
* * * *
(Reward Challenge)
(Shot of the group brought to a bit of the ocean. Standing there, is Akito Tenkawa, and some of the girls immediately perk up…)
Nene: Wow, he’s a hunk!
Akane: I’ll agree with you there…
Gohan: (whispers) Er, don’t you two have estranged others?
Nene/Akane: SHUT UP!
Akito: Er, sorry for interrupting, but I’m here to replace Misato on the grounds that she cannot be used for the merge considering her own show is still in the competition.
Shinji: That, and she probably was drunk on the island a couple of times.
Akito: Bingo.
Shinji: I knew it.
Akito: O.K, now the reward challenge, the first competitive one for every member is a fairly difficult one to explain. The challenge is that you will face each other in groups of three. You will go into the water, and dive down until you get to a log. You will hold onto that log as long as possible until you come up for air. The three that last the longest will compete in the final, and the winner of that will win the reward. Granted, it’s a bit different from the American versions, but hey, I think we can say that the British are weird anyway…
(Chromus: Shut your pie hole!)
Akito: (sweatdropping) Er, anyway, the trios will be done in alphabetical order, so if Akane, Chun and Duo go first please?
(Shot of the trio going into the water, Akane the most nervous by the looks of the faces.)
Akito: And…GO!
(The three dive and manage to grab the log. Akito has a stopwatch timing them. Chun and Duo have their eyes closed and seem quite comfortable, but Akane is immediately panicking. She eventually gives up and bobs up after about 20 seconds.)
Akito: Right, Akane that was 26 seconds.
Akane: Damn it! I just don’t like the water…
Nene: So a bit of Ranma is rubbing off on you then?
(Before Akane can start a tirade however, a shot of both Chun and Duo back in the water. Both are increasingly comfortable and smile. After a while, they lock hands and emerge out of the water together to applause from their teammates.)
Akito: O.K, Chun and Duo, that was exactly a minute longer than Akane at 1 minute, 26 seconds. Gohan, Julia, Nene, that’s your bench mark you have to beat.
(The three get in their positions, waiting for Akito’s instruction.)
Akito: And GO!
(The three dive in and hold on with their life depending on it. All three are holding their own fairly well, but Nene is the first to go, significantly longer than Akane though.)
Akito: Nene, that was 51 seconds.
Nene: (bobs her tongue at Akane) Hey, at least I beat someone!
Akane: (bobs her tongue back) Ah shat ap!
(The two remaining underwater however are not going anywhere too soon by the looks of things, and Chun and Duo look on, realising something.)
Chun: They’ve got us beat.
(Indeed, it seems to take forever, although in reality, it’s just 30 seconds more, but Julia let’s go, Gohan still intent to hold on. And everyone up above seem to realise what they are dealing with.)
Akito: Julia, 1 minute and 49 seconds. However, does anyone want to forfeit now after seeing this?
(As sweatdropping aplenty, Gohan is still content to remain in the water. However, he does eventually pop up to the applause of everyone.)
Akito: I think you scared everyone off with that Gohan, 2 minutes and 32 seconds. Now, I don’t know why, but Sakura, Shinji and Tenchi have decided to along with the challenge, so let’s just continue anyway.
(The three said people get in their positions, knowing they’ve got to beat at least 1 minute 26 seconds.)
Akito: Ready…GO!
(The three dive in, and grab the log. As soon as he touches it, Shinji floats back up.)
Akito: Eh?
Shinji: I know I’m not going to beat that so I might as well give up now.
Akito: Fair point.
(Back down below, Sakura and Tenchi are in a deadlock battle as the two hold their breath as long as possible. However, age and meditation come over athleticism and swimming ability as Sakura lets go.)
Akito: Sakura, that was 1 minute and 15 seconds.
(Tenchi hears this blurred down and holds on for another 15 seconds before releasing.)
Akito: Tenchi, well down, that puts you in the final, 1 minute 32 seconds. Julia and Gohan, you two are the other two finalists so if you please?
(Tenchi, Julia and Gohan make their way for their second test, Duo and Chun cursing slightly, whilst the others just smile.)
Akito: Ready…for the reward challenge…GO!
(As they dive, the remaining 6 cheer them on as best as they can, as they hold on. A minute passes by and not one of them is budging. All three have their eyes closed in some form of mediation.)
Akane: This makes me look embarrassing now.
Nene: Hey, it’s a reward, they need it.
Sakura: We all needed it, it’s just they are much better at this than we are…
Duo: We could have held on you know…
Chun: Hey, how was I supposed to know that Gohan was like an oxygen tank…
Shinji: That’s why I came up, hey, better than…whoa!
(Tenchi pops up, gasping for breath)
Akito: Tenchi, 1 minute 45 seconds…let’s wait now for the end of this contest.
(Again, the remaining two seems unwilling to budge. However, Julia sees Tenchi gone and already seeing what Gohan has done, decides that’s enough and slowly floats up.)
Akito: Well done Julia, 2 minutes and 3 seconds.
(Gohan is still down, unaware that he has won as his eye’s are closed, and seems to have cut himself from the world, as the calls from his fellow tribe members aren’t reaching him.)
Sakura: You’ve won Gohan, you can come out now!
Julia: Well, that is impressive.
(Finally, Gohan snaps his eyes open and sees he is alone. He pops up to the surface, and takes a deep breath admist the applause of all his teammates.)
Akito: Gohan, 2 minutes, 53 seconds. Incredibly impressive, and I think you earned the reward. Later today, we’ll be picking you up and taking you to a nearby island, where there, you will be given treatment comparable to a 5 star hotel, where you will have dinner, a good comfortable bed, a massage expert, and then breakfast in the morning.
(All the tribe are immediately gasping at Gohan’s reward.)
Akito: However….there is another option. You can bring someone with you to share this reward. You have 10 seconds to decide if you want to hog it, or bring someone for the ride.
(Gohan smiles and is about to answer)
Gohan: Sa…
(But he stops as Sakura is shot, shaking her head and points to someone else. Gohan immediately understands and changes his answer.)
Gohan: Akane.
(Akane is shocked and gasps, but is smiling none the less. Akane hugs Gohan much to the boy’s embarrassment, but the applause from the tribe is genuine.)
Akito: A heart-felt offer, so Akane and Gohan, table for two at a nearby island from the Mishima Conglomerate. Enjoy.
(Shot of the group going back to camp, their faces revolving around joy, jealously, mock hating…and confusion.)
* * * *
(As Gohan and Akane prepare for their reward, a lot of murmuring is made in Gohan’s surprise choice)
Nene: Well, Sakura, I guess you’ve been left behind for the older woman now.
Sakura: (does the anime eye put down and raspberry at Nene) Bleurgh! Shows what you know!
Tenchi: No seriously, I was surprised that Gohan choose Akane. I would have put money that it would be Sakura.
Julia: I guess that sparring session is out for this afternoon then eh Chun?
Chun: Darn, I wanted to see how good Akane is….well, at least with the time we’ve got left.
Tenchi (walking up to them): Yeah. Our two main choices are….wait a minute. (smiles) I think I understand now.
Chun: Huh?
Tenchi: Why Gohan chose Akane instead of Sakura.
(Shot of Akane and Gohan being sped off via speedboat, waving at the other 7 members of the tribe, trying not to act too jealous of course…)
All: WE HATE YOU!
Akane/Gohan: THANKS! (all burst into laughter)
* * * *
(Shot of a nearby island where Akane and Gohan have been taken to. On sight, they are greeted by a king sized double bed, a table with their favourite foods on them, and a Shitsu therapy massage expert (straight from Bubblegum Crisis 2040). Gohan and Akane high five)
Gohan/Akane: Yay!
(A shot of them preparing for dinner, something other than rice, fish and to a lesser extent, rats)
Gohan: This is the life…(munches down)…a chance to relax and enjoy ourselves.
Akane: (also munching) You said it….but how come…(swallows)…you chose me anyway?
Gohan: (looks up from eating) Huh?
Akane: I thought you would have picked Sakura instead, how come? (Takes a look at the bed behind them) Unless….HEY, WAIT A MINUTE?
Gohan: WAAAHHHHH! NO, THAT’S NOT THE REASON, I’M NOT LIKE THAT! BESIDES, I HADN’T A CLUE WHAT THIS REWARD WOULD CONSIST OF!
Akane: (smiles) I knew that, just wanted to see you frustrated.
Gohan: Why you…
Akane: Seriously though, why me?
Gohan: (smiles) It’s simple really. You and I are in a lot more danger than Sakura and Nene are I think. And we both suffered over 20 hours on a log yesterday, and in our conditions, neither of us will be a match if it’s a physical immunity later on. This way, we can let our sore limbs rest and be in top shape for immunity, which I think we both need to win.
Akane: Shame the immunity isn’t shared instead of the reward…(smiles)…but that was really sweet of you. You’re always thinking about the others on our tribe.
Gohan: Hey, tribal loyalties can work out. Unless we can get someone from them onto our side, we’re doomed. And sadly, it’s unlikely.
Akane: Maybe I could get Chun or Julia to our side, but with Duo and Tenchi on theirs, I doubt it.
Gohan: What about Shinji? He’d be the most likely to go against them, he would probably be the next one eliminated out of the 5…
Akane: Maybe, I dunno about him…look, let’s forget it and just enjoy our meal, and have that relaxation we were talking about.
Gohan: (smiles) Sure!
Akane: Oh, and you better keep way over to the other side of the bed young man or all the Saiyan powers in the world won’t be a match for my right hand…
Gohan: (sweatdrops) Sure….
* * * *
(Back on the beach, Tenchi explains the exact same thing to Duo and Shinji, having already informed the two girls)
(Tenchi: We worked out that Gohan choose Akane because they needed to restore their strength and that they were the most likely candidates for eviction in the next immunity. It sad to do, but they are the strongest of Helang, if not the whole tribe, and if we have any chance of winning, we need to cut them off at immunities.)
Duo: Clever devils.
Tenchi: No one said they were stupid.
Shinji: So which one do we go for?
Tenchi: If one wins immunity, the other. If neither of them win immunity, then we’ll have to decide. Gohan is stronger, but Akane is more popular with both tribes. If we get rid of Akane, then Julia and Chun won’t feel so bad if we eliminated later on.
Duo: I see what you mean. If Akane lasts longer, then the two girls will find it more difficult to vote her off.
Tenchi: What about you Shinji?
Shinji: (smiles) It’s nice to be asked a question which is straightforward. Personally, I don’t mind either of them, I think both are threats, but Gohan showed that he’s not unbeatable on the log, he’s still a boy. Akane on the other hand may not have all his strengths, but she is getting too close to our tribe.
Tenchi: Well, Gohan is quite friendly as well, damn, this is more difficult than I thought.
Duo: What about the other two, Sakura and Nene?
Tenchi: Although both are potential threats, they are not as strong as Akane and Gohan and more unlikely to win immunity challenges. We’ll wait until the girls come back with water, and we’ll talk.
(Meanwhile, said other two, Sakura and Nene are watching out some laundry and making the beach a bit cleaner)
Sakura: (sigh) It’s a bit boring without Akane and Gohan.
Nene: Yeah, despite everything, we are two tribes, and I’m sure they are talking about which one of us is going next.
Sakura: We made a pact with Serena, but now, it’s Ulah vs. Helang. And Ulah have the advantage.
Nene: Unless we bring on in, we’re doomed, and I don’t see any chance of that happening.
Sakura: It’s like we are waiting to be executed. Ulah are nice, but it still hurts when you see that fact.
Nene: I think we’re safe for the moment though, it’s Akane and Gohan in the hot seat. That was nice and thoughtful of you though to let Akane take the reward, when Gohan was going to choose you.
Sakura: (blushes) Thank you Nene.
(Sakura: The issue with Gohan choosing Akane was simply a way for them to discuss how to try and avoid eviction, to recharge their batteries. We know that all of Helang are seen as threats, but Ulah also know that if their plan is to succeed, all 4 of Helang will be on a jury of 7.)
(Nene: If one member of Helang gets to the final two, the remaining 3 members will vote for that member, no questions asked. If not, then there will be 4 Helang members voting for an Ulah member. They have to get their act together if we think they are worthy of winning a million pounds)
* * * *
(Back at the reward)
(Akane and Gohan are getting the full massage treatment and are obviously very comfortable. Akane looks like she’s drifted off to sleep.)
Akane: Damn, I’ve never felt this good before.
Gohan: The sun is coming in, we’d better make this last.
(Back at the beach, Julia and Tenchi are talking with Nene and Sakura)
Julia: Hey, you two all right?
Sakura: Yeah, I guess it feels we’ve known Gohan and Akane for a long time, when it has only been three weeks. We feel more comfortable with them around, here, it’s like we’re outcasts.
Tenchi: Don’t say that, we don’t want to feel like we’re barbarians.
Nene: (smiles) I know that Tenchi, and I don’t think we are. It’s just that we feel we’re ready to be cast away, and don’t deny it. We just hope that unless a miracle happens, we want to enjoy our time on the island.
Julia: I never realised it from that point of view. We’re sorry about this Nene, but you know what this is for.
(Nene: Talking to Julia that night and Tenchi showed that there are people who want to win this for a reason. It made me see them in all new lights.)
Julia: To preserve my mountain village, the wilderness surrounding it, that is why I took part in this. Back in Arizona, we feel that the protectors and the protected are kindred within a natural balance. That is why I want to win.
Nene: I never thought about that. I don’t really have a reason why I want to win this…
Sakura: My family has said that I should put it in a balance until I’m older, that way I’m safe for life. I guess though a few of my friends may have something to say about that…
Tenchi: Heh. If I won, I’d hide it away from Ryoko first off, and see if I can do something about my school life. My life as a descendant of Masaki Shintu priests with 6 women from outer space hasn’t exactly been a way to relieve stress.
Julia: Speaking of stress, I wonder how Akane and Gohan are sleeping tonight….
(Shot of Akane and Gohan, they are both on their separate sides, but are sleeping soundly, like the pressures of the last three weeks have caught up with them)
(Back at camp, Duo, Chun and Shinji are just ready to put out the fire)
Duo: We’ll wait till immunity.
Shinji: You know guys, we should try and talk to Nene and Sakura. I mean, Tenchi and Julia are doing their best to make them feel welcome…
Chun: What’s the point? They know and we know that they will be all gone within the next 12 days.
Duo: I guess…it does feel like a losing battle doesn’t it?
Shinji: (a bit sad) I guess.
(Shinji: I don’t think Duo and Chun still know what info I have. I’m sure Tenchi would have told Julia now, and the way that Helang are simply being cast away, it something I don’t like. I dunno how this will end up, but the bottom line is, if I want to survive, I have to keep my mouth shut….as much as I don’t want to…)
* * * *
Day 21, Time 9.00am.
(Whilst the camp is already hustle and bustle with breakfast going, Gohan and Akane wake up from the best night sleep they’ve had since arriving from the island.)
Gohan: Ah, that’s the life, all the aches and pains now seem a distant memory.
Akane: Good, we need to forget them later today.
(They sit down for breakfast, which is cereal, eggs and fried rice with sushi. They dig in and it is visible that both Akane put many spoonfuls of sugar in their orange juice, the first sugar they’ve had for quite a while.)
(Back at camp)
(Shot of Sakura and Julia on fishing duty, as the others gather round after a simple breakfast of rice and rat. O.K, not that simple…)
Nene: I guess that Akane and Gohan are having something slightly better…
Duo: What? Shinji’s cuisine isn’t good enough?
Shinji: I wouldn’t exactly call this cuisine, but…
(Suddenly, a boat comes by and Julia and Sakura look up and smile. Both give a wave as a shot of Akane and Gohan, in blue and yellow kimonos respectivelly, go off as Sakura gives both of them a hug, as Julia smiles.)
Julia: Welcome back guys, just in time for a late breakfast.
Gohan: I think we can say that we are both full…
Sakura: And by the scent of you, high on sugar and aromatherapy.
Akane: Nothing wrong with that I hope?
Sakura: Nah!
(Shot of the group back together as Akane and Gohan talk about their reward, and insanely making the others jealous…)
Duo: You had a massage therapy? That’s it, guys, can you just vote me off now, this is making me depressed…
(Duo goes into Soun Tendo depressed mode mockingly as Akane joins in, patting his back. The group laugh.)
(Duo: I must admit, it’s going to be hard to vote anyone off Helang now, because we seem to have bonded so well. Sadly, it’s going to be the case.)
* * * *
(A shot of Akane, Julia and Chun sparing, with Tenchi, Gohan, Duo, Sakura and Nene watching on)
Tenchi: Hey girls, don’t tire yourselves out, we’ve got immunity soon!
(Julia aims her bow and arrow kick at Chun, who jumps, but is met in mid air with a throw by Akane, Chun lands on her feet as they all stand up, smile and bow to each other)
Julia: We know Tenchi, we’re just warming up for it.
Gohan: Akane, you should conserve your energy you know?
Akane: Bah, if this is my last couple of nights, I’m going to enjoy myself!
Nene: By beating up Julia and Chun?
Akane: Yep! Two Ulah members on the ground unable to get up, ah, paradise!
(All laugh, but the next bit is no laughing matter, it is time for the immunity challenge)
* * * *
(Shot of the 9 of them, all on bamboo poles in the middle. There are more poles behind them and in front of them as Akito stands in front of them explaining the rules.)
Akito: O.K Sekutu, we are ready for the all important immunity challenge. This challenge is about your mind rather than your physical strength (Akane and Gohan groan), as you will soon find out. This challenge is a trademark, know as much about anime question. This will be about your own shows and others as well, so let’s see who pays as much attention to them as I do. If you think the answer is A of the question, move one place forward. If it’s B, move on place back, and C, stay where you are. Everyone got that?
(All nod)
Akito: Let’s start, with a cheap plug, and a question on Nadesico.
Question: What is the alias that pilot Giro Yamada went as?
A: Cody Iorida
B: Guy Daigoji
C: Haga Chigica
(Shot of Chun, Julia and Tenchi all moving forward, whilst Duo, Shinji, Nene, Akane, Sakura and Gohan all move back)
Akito: The correct answer is B, Guy rest in peace bud, and Chun, Julia and Tenchi are out.
Question 2: From Tenchi Muyo, what is Washu’s last name?
A: Habuki
B: Hibiki
C: Nabiki
(Everyone moves forward except Akane who stays put)
Akito: A is the correct answer, Akane, get down.
Akane: Even now my sister haunts me…
Akito: Now, from Ranma, which one of these is not and repeat, NOT, in some sort of business involving cooking.
A: Kasumi
B: Ukyo
C: Shampoo
(Confusion as many aren’t sure whether to move forward or stay put. In the end, Nene, Gohan and Shinji move forward, whilst Sakura and Duo stay put.)
Akito: The answer is Kasumi, A. I said business, Kasumi doesn’t get paid for it. Sakura and Duo are eliminated.
Akito: Next question;
From Card Captors, which one of these isn’t a name of a Japanese character?
A: Chiharu
B: Yamazaki
C: Kodosho
(Shinji moves back, but Nene and Gohan stay put.)
Akito: The answer is C. Shinji, sit down. It’s down to Nene and Gohan now.
(Shot of Akane, literaly sweating herself to nervousness…)
Akito: From Pokemon;
Which one of these ISN’T a gym leader?
A: Koga
B: Shingo
C: Falkner
(Nene moves back, and Gohan stays still)
Akito: Gohan…you’re wrong. Nene…you’re correct. Congratulations Miss Romanova, you are immune.
(Shot of Nene happy, as she kisses the amulet as the others congratulate her, although Gohan is a bit forlorn.)
* * * *
(Back at camp)
(Akane: I’m happy Nene won, but that means that either me or Gohan are for the chop.)
(Gohan: I did plenty of studying for this, and anime was the main subject. However, I never looked at gym leaders. I knew Koga was one, and I thought Falkner sounded the least likely. Gary never told me anything like this…and I may pay for it as well.)
(Nene: My preparation saved me this time. However, my survival has probably cost one of the comrades their chance at a million pounds)
(Shot of Sakura and Gohan swimming in the ocean)
Gohan: This could be it.
Sakura: Don’t say that Gohan-kun, there’s always hope!
Gohan: (smiles) Who do you think you are, a Digidestined?
Sakura: Well, that T.K is a cutey-pie…
Gohan: (mockingly) Sakkkurrraaa….
Sakura: (giggles) I was just kidding! Seriously though, don’t give up yet, maybe we can still survive here.
Gohan: I dunno, (swims over to Sakura and lifts her in his arms) but hey, I might as well enjoy myself (throws her into the ocean)…
(Sakura splutters up as Gohan smiles at her. Sakura splashes water at Gohan, and the two get into a splashing contest, giggling all the way)
(Shot of Duo and Shinji getting some wood, watching Sakura and Gohan)
Duo: You know, when it’s all said and done, the two of them are just kids if you think about it.
Shinji: True, they are kids…of course kids with magical and alien powers, but what you going to do?
Duo: (smiles) Shinji, was that a trace of humor in that there?
Shinji: (also smiles) Maybe.
(Shot of Akane, sparring with Julia)
Akane: Julia (ducks a sweeping elbow)…can I ask you something?
Julia: (ducks a roundhouse kick) I know what you’re gonna ask, and I’m sorry, but I don’t know.
Akane: Come on, I won’t get mad, I promise. If it’s me, just tell me, I want to enjoy myself (swinging with a roaring elbow) as long as I’m here, even if it is just one more day.
Julia: (catches the elbow and swinging with a throw, but Akane lands on her feet) Akane…please, I don’t want to vote you off, you’ve been really welcoming to our tribe, but…
Akane: You want to win this as much as we do. (puts a hand on her shoulder) Listen, it doesn’t matter if it’s me, if it’s Gohan, if it’s Sakura or anyone of your tribe. The decision is going to be hard.
Julia: (sighs) I know…
Akane: But tonight, old Helang are going to sit by the sunset, as this will most likely be the last time we can enjoy it together. And if any of you wants to join us, it’s fine, because none of us hold a grudge, in the end, it’s a game, and you play to win.
Julia: I thought you didn’t like losing.
Akane: I don’t when it’s someone back home, but to the people here, it’s a honour to lose to people like you. We couldn’t compete with you back in the old tribes, and the loyalties remain thick to Sekutu. Julia, listen, we like you, and we want you to win this, either you or Tenchi. If you vote us off, remember this, our votes will be for one of you two, just promise me to get that far.
Julia: Akane….
Akane: Oh, and one more thing (removes her hand and does a judo takedown, landing on her)
Akane: ….gotcha. (smiles and helps Julia up, both are smiling)
(Julia: I’m not sure if Akane or Gohan have accepted defeat, but what she said does bare thinking about. Do they want me to win, or is it a trick? I don’t think so…Akane has been my favourite Helang member since we got there, and I don’t think she was lying.)
(Akane: I made a promise to Julia, and I think she is the most deserving of the million pounds. I may have white lied about all of Helang voting for her, but I certainly win. I just hope she keeps the end of the bargain and gets to the final.)
(Shot of Chun-Li with Nene in the jungle, on water patrol)
Chun: Hey, at least you’re safe for tonight!
Nene: I guess…but come on, you’re gonna vote for a member of Helang right?
Chun: (slowly) I guess so…
Nene: Hey, we would have done the same thing as well, but…(stumbles over the water hole, Chun instinctivelly stops her from falling)…thanks.
Chun: Hey, no problem. This may be tribal loyalties, but we’re friends none the less. After this game is over, I hope we can have a get together with the 9 of us, maybe adding Davis as well.
Nene: You should have met Vivi, he was such a sweetie-pie, I quite liked Gary too before me and him began to shout each other off for each others screw ups.
Chun: Ah, I see.
Nene: Never mind, let’s just get this water back.
(Nene: I am the only one guaranteed safety tonight, and although it’s unlikely that I’ll win immunity every time, it does help seeing who is generally trying to win our affections and who is sucking up. They know it as well as we do about the jury, and the proof is in the pudding with how everyone talks to us. They need to become friends with us, the problem is, who is generally doing it and who isn’t.)
(Chun: With each day, you sense Helang sensing more and more doubt. It is a game, and I want to win, we all do. It comes down to loyalties and luck, and in Ulah’s case, we had the share of both, and we intend to keep it like that.)
* * * *
(As the sun sets, all 9 members of the tribe are outside the sunset, at Akane’s request. Shot of the group sitting opposite their camp watching the sunset. The order sitting is Gohan, Sakura, Nene, Akane, Julia, Chun, Duo, Shinji, Tenchi.)
Akane: A last appreciation of the glow of the island’s beauty.
Gohan: For one of us it is.
Julia: This should be a ritual for us now, the night of an immunity challenge we do this, and enjoy someone’s last day on the island.
Tenchi: The pressures of Council and evictions are forgotten during moments like this, which is relaxing.
Duo: Speaking of relaxing, we are still envious of that treatment you got!
Akane: (winks) Hey, win the next reward, and enjoy it for yourself.
Duo: Fair point.
Shinji: It’s been such a wonderful journey…it’s almost like I don’t want it to end.
Sakura: I see what you mean, our lives changed when we came here, and even if it’s only for a few weeks, it is almost like a holiday.
Chun: Well, except for the starving part.
Nene: Of course.
Akane: Well guys, no matter what happens tomorrow, no-one, and I repeat, no-one breaks from this ritual O.K?
Tenchi: No problem. (holds his hand out) Promise?
(All of them put their hand on each others)
All: Promise.
* * * *
(Day 22, 5.34am. Sunrise.)
(Shot of most of the group in camp. However, Akane is up, watching the sunrise. Also out there are Gohan, and a sleeping Sakura by his side.)
Akane: This is the last time one of us will probably see this Gohan.
Gohan: (sleepily) I know…I guess I’ll never get tired of seeing the sunrise. Back home, it came over the hills and mountains, shining over the mountains. It was a spectacular beauty.
Akane: I never realised what it could look like, I never get up early enough back in Nerima to watch it.
Gohan: It’s a sign that you’ve found yourself Akane. You’ve found the person you wanted to be.
Akane: (smiles) I guess you’re right, compared to the hustle and bustle of Nerima, this is a relaxing change.
(Some scurrying is heard, and Julia and Tenchi get out of the camp, and smile seeing Akane up)
Tenchi: I didn’t think you’d be up to watch it.
Akane: I know. I felt this could be my last chance. Sakura, Gary and Gohan did it a lot back in old Helang, and now I know why.
Gohan: (has an arm around Sakura) Hey, Sakura…wake up…
Sakura: (groggily rubs her eyes) Uh…oh…hi. Is it time?
Gohan: Come on. (Sakura sits up, still leaning on Gohan though to the Saiyan’s embarrassment)
Sakura: I’m up…I’m up….
(As the sun shines above Sekutu beach, the 5 people there know that for one of them, two people most likely, the sun will shine for them, for the last time. But they are content that for the time being, there is a togetherness between the group, and for the future.)
* * * *
(8.12am. Breakfast)
(Everyone is now up, and there is an uneasy quiet around the camp, as today is judgement day.)
Akane: Oh dear…a silence among the camp, is it one of the signs?
Julia: I guess this is a feeling we’re going to have to get accustomed to every immunity time.
Tenchi: I know, I don’t like it, but it must me done.
(Nods of agreement as a breakfast of rice is done, nothing more, simple.)
(Akane: Tonight, the jury is Ulah and the executed are Helang. However, I’m sure the roles will be reversed sooner than later.)
(Nene: I’m the only one safe tonight, but it’s a hollow victory, knowing one of my friends and saviours from Helang won’t be here by the end of today.)
(Gohan: I know I’m in the most danger, and I’m hoping that I can survive, but it’s unlikely. If I do, I know it’ll be a huge relief, but I will have to be constantly on my guard.)
(Sakura: Is there honour in the game? I don’t know, but the time for the jury to starts begins tonight, and we know to survive, we need to pull out all the stops, and that means Ulah too, not just Helang.)
(Tenchi: Akane, Gohan and even Sakura. One of those are going tonight, as hard as it may be. For some it is more, others it’s less, but all of us feel a bit of sorrow for tonight’s evictee.)
(Julia: It’s tough, and it’s not fair, but it’s also the rules, and the rules say one must go every three nights, no matter what. It sad, it’s harsh, it’s downright cruel, but it’s the way it is.)
(Duo: Gohan was saved last time by everyone wanting Serena off, this time, he’s not so safe. However, I felt a special kinship with him when he was saved, and I’d feel really guilty knocking the kid off now.)
(Shinji: It’s tough as there are two kids and two teenagers there, and you don’t know which is the most dangerous. However, tonight one will be cut, unless something drastic happens.)
(Chun: It’s all about winning. Friendships, courage, strength, skills, it all means nothing. Ultimate survivor isn’t necessarily the strongest on the island, it is the smartest. Sadly, Helang’s disadvantage plays to Ulah’s advantage.)
* * * *
(Shot of the 4 Helang members)
Akane: We know it’s one of us three, most likely me or Gohan.
Gohan: Should we vote for one person and hope someone on there changes their mind?
Nene: No. It won’t work. I think the best plan is to simply tag the votes.
Sakura: Huh?
Akane: Yeah. What she means is that we simply vote for the ones we don’t want to win, if the 4 of us get to the jury, those votes could mean a huge outcome for the remaining guys.
Gohan: What do you mean?
Akane: Well, I want Julia to win, so I’m not voting for her.
Gohan: I like Duo to win.
Nene: I’ll go with Tenchi.
Sakura: Me too.
Akane: O.K, so each of us vote for either Chun-Li or Shinji. That way, their votes pile up and if it goes to a tie in the future, they are in trouble.
Sakura: Ah, I get it now!
Gohan: Good, and as this is the last time we are together…
(The formerly Helang have a goodbye hug, relishing every second)
(Shot of former Ulah)
Julia: (sigh) I guess this is the best option. I don’t agree with it but…
Duo: No-one does, but not even he can win immunity every time, and it just gets harder for you every immunity.
Julia: I guess…
Chun: I know what you mean.
Tenchi: Sorry, but it has to be done.
Shinji: So, let’s get on with it….as much as we don’t want to.
(General murmurs of agreement)
* * * *
(Shot of Tribal Council. All 9 members have their torches, as Tenchi hits the gong. Akito smiles as they all take their seats and await the next execution.)
Akito: Well, this is my first time, and tonight, the first member of the jury is decided. That person will appear every tribal council until the final two are decided, observing the questions and movements of Tribal Council, nothing else. So, for tonight, the questions. Tenchi, is the choice obvious and it is set in stone?
Tenchi: The choice was difficult, and it wasn’t obvious, and for the person we choose tonight, we are sorry we have to do it, because this said person is very tough, popular and one of the strongest of the tribe, which is why we need to get this person off.
Akito: The old, take the strongest off theory. Hey, it’s worked in other Survivors, both real and anime, so why not this one? Gohan, do you feel under threat because of this…
Gohan: I think history has shown that any Saiyan is a threat to win and people always choose if they should take him out early or not. If it’s my turn tonight, I’ll respect that, and know they cut me off because I was a threat, and not a hindrance.
Akito: And Serena will keep that in mind for future survivors. Finally, Akane, you also are a huge phsyical threat, are you going to feel in danger tonight.
Akane: Absolutely. I think the choice has been made tonight, and I’m sure it’s a former Helang member. But tonight also marks the start of the jury, and that is just as important because we decide who wins, so either way, something drastic will happen.
Akito: Very well, and Akane, we’ll let you go first whilst we’re speaking.
(Shot of Akane going to the pedesal. Her vote ‘SHINJI’.)
Akane: It’s hard to pick when you know you’re in trouble, but we’re just tagging the votes, and hopefully, someone I want to win will take advantage of this.
(Next goes Duo, then Chun, her vote ‘AKANE.’)
Chun: I’m sorry girlfriend, you’ve been great here, but the judges have decided that you are much more an overall threat to winning, both physically and mentally.
(Next is Nene. Her vote ‘CHUN-LI.’)
Nene: Tempting as Shinji was, I kinda feel sorry for him. Chun however, needs to learn a bit about sincerity.
(Next comes Shinji, then Sakura, who votes ‘CHUN-LI.’)
Sakura: When it comes down to it, you remind me of a shrieking Mei-lin. That’s not a good thing.
(A solemn Julia walks up and votes ‘AKANE.’)
Julia: I am so sorry Akane. However, it will get together every day because we like you so much. Be proud Akane of what you accomplished. And I hope that you keep your promise…as I hope I’ll keep mine.
(Tenchi goes up, also solemn and votes. Finally, Gohan votes ‘SHINJI.’)
Gohan: I couldn’t think of anyone else.
(Gohan sits down and Akito comes up)
Akito: O.K, Gohan, you were the last one, I’ll count the votes.)
(Shot of Akito putting the pedesal down checking, and now opening it. He takes out the first vote.)
Akito: Shinji.
(Shinji nods once.)
Akito: Akane.
(Akane also nods, now knowing.)
Akito: Akane.
(Akane smiles, not panicking. Nene clutches her friends hand.)
Akito: Chun-Li
(Chun is surprised to say the least from the vote.)
Akito: Akane.
(Akane’s face just holds a smile. Shot of Gohan, a mixture of sadness and relief.)
Akito: Chun-Li. That’s three for Akane, 2 for Chun and one for Shinji.
(Chun is starting to get a little bit worried.)
Akito: Akane.
(Worry vanishes as Akane just continues smiling.)
Akito: Akane.
(She’s knows she’s gone.)
Akito: And although it doesn’t matter, the final vote is Shinji. Akane, can you please come up here with your torch?
(Akane goes along each of the group, shaking hands with Tenchi, Shinji and Duo, hugging Sakura, Chun, Nene and Julia, who has tears in her eyes, and stops to give Gohan a sweet little peck on the cheek. She turns and gets her torch and goes to Akito.)
Akito: Akane, as you know fire represents your life on this island, you’re life has now come to an end, could you extinguish your flame please?
(Akane, without a care in the word, puffs out the flame.)
Akito: The tribe has spoken, could you please leave?
(Akane turns to the group)
Akane: I take this as a compliment, and none of you better screw up because I’ll be watching every move of yours, good luck to all of you. (she winks at the group before leaving. A shot of Nene who is wiping tears, as is Sakura and Julia, the rest just sighing in relief, none more than Gohan, feeling a bit red as well.)
Akito: Tonight, we have discovered who the first member of the jury will be. In three days, another person will join Akane Tendo to decide who wins a million pounds. For now though Sekutu, return to your beach, and I’ll see you tomorrow.
* * * *
(Akane’s confessional)
Akane: I did what I could, and I got as far as the jury, which is the next best thing to winning, so I can’t complain too much.
(Duo’s vote ‘AKANE.’)
Duo: It’s hard Akane, but we have to do this, please don’t take it personally.
Akane: It’s going to be difficult for any of Helang to have a chance, but I fancy that Gohan could still have a chance. Nene and Sakura, Ulah, please be gentle with them.
(Shinji’s vote ‘AKANE.’)
Shinji: If I need to survive, I have to go along with the majority. Sadly Akane, you were the choice, and I can’t break it.
Akane: It means I’m away from all that water, soak myself in a hotel, and then…oh wait, I avoid Nerima until the contest is over because of the jury! YAYYY!
(Tenchi’s vote ‘AKANE.’)
Tenchi: You are scaring me a bit with your swimming, but besides that, you are a great girl and a strong competitor. We mean no disrespect for voting you off, but sadly, that is the chance. Keep your chin up Akane, there will be something for you in the future.
Akane: (peace sign) Good luck to them all!
* * * *
(Akane was seen as a leader at Helang, the great combination of beauty, brains and brawn, a mothering figure at time to the younger members of Helang, and she found her niche in the island. However, after the disadvantage coming into Sekutu, Ulah made her the first choice of the former Helang to go off because of the threat she posed.)
(And next time on Anime and Video Game Survivor…)
And another one bites the dust.
Akane (5): Tenchi, Julia, Duo, Shinji, Chun-Li
Chun-Li (2): Sakura, Nene
Shinji (2): Akane, Gohan
Again, I had only known a tad about Ranma (you’ll notice at the start of the fic, Akane is swimming…I didn’t realise that she couldn’t swim…). Hopefully since then, things have improved with my use for anime characters, so that the sequels to this (and Pokemole) will be much better.
See you next time!