This week’s episode of “Roomies” is dedicated to the victims of the World Trade Center and Pentagon plane crashes. May they rest in peace. ***** Okay folks, now you can finally speak your mind! I am now accepting entries for those of you who wish to submit questions for the Reunion Special at the end of the show! Here’s how it works. As of right now, I have not decided how long the special will be, so there is no limit currently to how many questions will be asked. So, you may submit questions as many times as you want, as many at a time as you want. You may direct the questions to one character in particular, or a select group of characters. If you even want to me ask me a question about the series, you can do that too! Most likely, a final list of questions will probably not be available until about a week prior to the airing of the special. Those lucky fans whose questions make the final list may even be asked to present the question live at the special! More details on that at a later date. Only I will know what questions will be asked at the special prior to its airing. Please note that I will read through each prospective question. Any inappropriate questions will be immediately thrown out. The cut-off date for submitting questions is tentatively scheduled to be October 20th, 2001. Entries submitted after that date will be accepted only in the case that I’ve fallen behind in finishing the series. Oh... to keep the questions as secret as possible, they must be mailed directly to me! My e-mail address is jgg121@yahoo.com. Fanfiction.net readers/reviewers need to remember this especially! Posting it as part of your review diminishes the chances that the question you asked will be used! You have been warned! That’s all for now! If any rules need to be modified or answered, you will be informed of the change immediately. Now, onto Episode 14, which features a special cameo appearance by a famous fanfic author, as well as a few other guest appearances as well! Oh, and before anyone asks, I’m doing this as a favor! This is not an invitation for everyone to try and get into the show! Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters, shows, or songs used in the writing of this fanfic. Please remember that! * * * * * * * * * * Layla: (VO) Last time, on Roomies... Mimi: What is wrong with you, girl? Chelsea: Let’s see... I loved the way you... Nikki: (blushing) Oh my. Layla: (VO) With love in the air, Misty and Kari decide to bring one relationship to light... Kari: We’re a little concerned over how Madison’s been treated the past few days. Giselle: I think it is within the best interests of all of the girls living in this house that Madison move out and be replaced by another girl, if at all possible. Misty: You’re afraid she’ll make advances towards you? Sasami: We should just let Madison be. Layla: (VO) And how did Madison react to all of this? Madison: To be honest, I don’t think anyone’s threatened me. Kari: Really? Madison: But everyone’s scared of me, that’s for sure. Layla: (VO) And the person she had a crush on? Sakura: Well Madison, I haven’t talked to you because I’m afraid of you. Layla: (VO) But as things seemed to calm down, a new development came to life... Mailman: Package for Jun Motimiya. Jun: Let’s see... it’s from my brother? Kari: Maybe he just addressed to you when in reality it’s for me. Jun slowly pulls a sun bright yellow two-piece bikini into the view of the camera. Jun: Ooookay. Sasami: Are you sure it’s for you, Jun? It looks a little small. Jun: I think you’re right. Kari: Then who’s it for? Yolei: (smiles coyly) I think we all know the answer to that. Kari: No way! If Davis thinks this is a good way to impress me, then he’s got another thing coming. Layla: (VO) Talk about a present that Kari definitely doesn’t want to receive... Sure enough, Kari is wearing the swimsuit. Kari: (blushing) Still, I don’t like it! Yolei: Oh, come on Kari! Give it a chance! Sasami: I have to say, Davis is quite the romantic! Kari: I can’t believe all of you! Don’t you realize how insulting this is? Yolei: Lighten up. I’m pretty sure it’s some dare that the other boys put on Davis or something. I bet this is all a joke! Kari: But what if it isn’t, Yolei? What if it isn’t? Layla: (VO) I think that’s a question we all want answered... * * * * * * * * * * Sixteen young girls Four different anime shows Forty-two days living alone in a mansion One lucky soul walks away with up to one million dollars in cash (Begin theme song, showing each of the contestants, two at a time via split screen) Casey, getting on a bike for the first time, with Zachary helping Chelsea, smiling after beating Nikki and Rita at ‘Super Smash Brothers’ Duplica, telling Giselle about the water gun fight Giselle, talking to an out of breath Misty after she had completed the first prize challenge Jun, talking to her parents on the phone Kari, struggling to resolve the conflict between Misty and Sora Madison, giving Yolei the Digiworld costume she recreated Meilin, trying to scare Sakura just before they go for their final dive Mimi, whining that she didn’t get a chance to play the virtual laser tag game at the mall Misty, commenting to herself to make sure she doesn’t have any relatives in Hong Kong Nikki, telling about Madison’s knack for designing clothes for fun Rita, noting how easily she’s gotten alone with her roommate, Sasami Sakura, celebrating after winning the bicycle race prize challenge Sasami, complaining that she’s doing all of the work around the house Sora, comforting Mimi after she got yelled at by Misty Yolei, happily hugging her Digimon, Hawkmon Some of these girls will form long lasting friendships Others will develop intense rivalries But only one will walk out with up to a million dollars in cash and prizes These girls are... roomies! (Four group shots, each featuring one of the anime shows being represented, flashes on the screen for about two seconds each) - Cardcaptors - Rita, Nikki, Chelsea, Meilin, Madison, Sakura - Pokémon: The Johto Journeys - Casey, Giselle, Duplica, Misty - Digimon - Jun, Yolei, Kari, Mimi, Sora - Tenchi Muyo! - Sasami (End theme song, with a picture of all sixteen contestants in front of the mansion) * * * * * * * * * * Roomies Story Written by Freedom Fighter * * * * * * * * * * Episode Fourteen - A Night at the Pokécenter Day Twenty Seven Early the next morning, while at the breakfast table, Misty decides to confront Giselle after all that’s happened in the house recently. As she walks into the room, she sees that Sasami, Sora, and Madison are awake as well, enjoying a plate full of French toast topped with maple syrup. Misty: Giselle! I think it’s time we had a talk, one-on-one! Giselle: (looking up from her plate) Can’t it wait? I’m still eating breakfast. Misty: No, I want to talk now! Misty takes Giselle by the hand and drags her out of the room. Giselle tries to break free, but Misty seems to have a good grip on her. Sasami, Sora, and Madison just ignore Giselle’s pleas for assistance as they continue eating. Sasami: Sometimes those two remind me of Ryoko and my sister, Ayeka. Sora: You’re right. But which one’s which? Madison: My bet’s on Misty being Ryoko! Sora: I see your point. Giselle’s cuter than Misty is, but Misty is stronger than Giselle. I guess it makes sense. Sasami: I’m sure it does... to everyone but Ryoko and Ayeka! The trio bursts out in laughter. Meanwhile, Misty and Giselle are now outside the mansion, on the front porch. Misty: Giselle, I’m just sick and tired of you waltzing around here like you’re the queen! Giselle: What are you talking about? If I was queen, then you’d all be my servants. Misty: Oh, that’s right. You tried that with Jun already, remember? Giselle: I didn’t force her to do that, you know. She did it of her own free will. Misty: So you claim. And what about when Meilin tried to retaliate for your actions? Giselle: You mean that girl who squirted me in the face with a water gun? Misty: Yes, that’s her. And you nearly punched her lights out. Giselle: I think she deserved it. Misty: And then this. Are you really that set on kicking Madison out of the mansion? Giselle: Like I said the other night, she poses a safety risk to us all. Which reminds me... why didn’t you ask about this last night? Misty: Because I didn’t want Duplica, Casey, or any of the other girls involved in this. You’ve already tortured several of them already. Now it’s my turn to step up to the plate. Giselle: (raising an eyebrow) You’ve been hanging around with Casey a lot lately, haven’t you? Misty: Forget that! You do realize that you’re not making many friends here. Giselle: So? We’re here for the money! I take whatever I need and use it to my advantage. I want to win this thing and I know you do too! Misty: Yes, I want to win! But not like this! You’re back to your old habits, aren’t you? Giselle: What do you mean by old habits? Misty: You know, using someone to help you get through a task or challenge and then discarding them like useless playing cards. That’s what I mean! Giselle: That’s life. Misty: That’s life? That’s all you can say? Giselle: That’s how I was raised. How many times do I have to say that to everyone? Misty: So? This is the real world! This is more important that anything you learned in that prep school of yours! Giselle: Hey! I resent that! Misty: I don’t care if you’re training to become a Pokémon master! You’re not going to do it with the method you’re using. If you use people, people will start using you. And then you’ll get into a situation you’re going to regret for the rest of your life. Giselle: Uh huh. Listen little girl, I’m old enough to look out for my own well-being. Misty: (angrily) Little girl? You can’t be more than a year my senior at the most! Giselle: Maybe, but I’m more mature than you’ll ever be. Misty: See? That’s what I’m talking about! If you can’t get your way by force, then you’ll get it using pleasurable persuasion. You’re using people! Giselle: (smirks) You’re not that much different. You’re using Ash, aren’t you? Misty: (a little surprised) Huh? Giselle: Oh, excuse me. I meant using your bicycle. You know, as an excuse to keep following him around? Misty: The way I use my bike is my business and is totally different from you using Jun, Meilin, Madison, or any other girl in this house! Giselle: There’s no difference, Misty. We both use things to get our way and you know it. Misty: That’s not true! Giselle: Don’t lie. I know the truth. Tracey told me so himself. Misty: Tracey? Giselle: You see, I actually made that blind date of mine more enjoyable. I got him to tell me everything he had learned about you while he was traveling with you. And trust me, if you ask him, he’ll say the same thing I’m saying now. Misty: Tracey wouldn’t do that. Giselle: Wouldn’t, couldn’t, shouldn’t, but he did anyway. Giselle begins to head back inside when all of a sudden, she turns, grabs Misty by the suspenders, and pulls her face up to her own. Giselle: No offense Misty, but this time, it’s war. I’m going to make these last two weeks a living nightmare for you. She lets go and struts her way back inside. Misty, not feeling threatened by Giselle’s verbal and physical attack, shouts back a response. Misty: Oh yeah? We’ll see who survives! Later that day, at about eleven o’clock, another event takes place in the kitchen. Mimi is already hard at work, getting lunch ready, when Kari comes stomping into the room. Mimi: Kari? You seem a little angry today... Kari: Angry? That’s a understatement! I’m going to give Davis a piece of my mind and then some! Mimi: Davis? What does he have to do with all of this? Kari ignores Mimi and heads over to the phone, where she dials the number to the Pallet Town mansion. Mimi listens in as she hears Kari start yelling at whomever is at the other end of the line. She gasps in shock as Kari begins arguing with whom Kari believes is Davis. After about a minute, Kari hangs up and stomps out of the room, still as pissed off as ever. Mimi attempts to stop her in hopes of getting her to spill the details. Mimi: Um... Kari? Kari: (without turning around) I don’t want to talk about it. Mimi: But... Kari: (now turning around to face Mimi) It’s none of your damn business! With that, Kari runs off towards the staircase, apparently heading for her room. Mimi can only sigh and wonder what Davis did that made Kari so upset. As she turned her attention back to fixing lunch, she sees that the pot of chicken vegetable soup was beginning to boil over. She panics as she runs over to turn off the stove. As she does, though, some of the hot liquid from the pot splashes out and onto Mimi’s clothes and skin, especially on her left arm and around her belly button. Instinctively, she heads for the sink. She rinses her left arm with cold water while using her right hand to wet a paper towel, in order to wipe the soup from her body. Mimi sighs again, this time relieved that she had gotten the situation under control. Of course, it’s now that she realizes that her white skirt has several stains on it. Mimi: (screams) Aaaaaahhhh! These stains will take forever to get out! Later on, just after one o’clock, Chelsea goes to answer the front door. Opening, she begins conversing with the mailman for a few minutes before he walks off. He comes back with a push cart that has a big box in it. Chelsea guides him to the first floor recreation room, where she orders the mailman to leave it there. The mailman then leaves the mansion, off to continue his route. Chelsea locks the door after him and then goes to get everyone else. In a matter of minutes, all of the girls, with the exception of Mimi and Casey, are in the room. Jun, Misty, and Sora are at work, opening the box. Jun, the first one to reach in, pulls out a white envelope and a videotape. She hands off the videotape to Sasami, who puts it into the VCR. Sasami then turns on the TV before taking a seat on the couch. Everyone’s eyes are focused on the TV. As the video starts, several music videos begin to play. It starts with the four theme songs of the four respective shows: Cardcaptors, Pokémon: The Johto Journeys, Digimon, and Tenchi Muyo! It then moves into traditional music videos. That sequence starts by playing Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive,” followed by B-52’s “Love Shack,” Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You,” No Doubt’s “Don’t Speak,” Mariah Carey’s “Fantasy,” Britney Spears’s “Baby One More Time,” and last, but not least, “Lady Marmalade” by Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mya, and Pink. Miss McKenzie then appears on the screen. Layla: You’re looking at just a few of the most influential pop videos by female artists in America over the past twenty years. Tomorrow night, you just might find yourself singing one of them. That’s right! It’s time for a “Night at the Pokécenter!” I hope you girls can carry a tune! With that, the tape comes to an end. Madison gets up and screams in delight. Madison: A singing contest? I’m sure to win that! Sakura: (standing up) I’m sure you will, Madison! Giselle: (under her breath) Only someone like you would. Giselle snickers before turning and seeing that Misty was glaring at her. She had obviously heard Giselle’s comment and was not happy with it. But before Misty could publicly complain about it, Casey walks into the room. Casey: Sorry I’m late, guys. I just finished lunch. Did I miss anything? Duplica: Miss McKenzie just told us that our next challenge involves singing. Casey: Singing? Cool! Jun opens the white envelope and reads the piece of paper inside out aloud. Jun: (reading aloud) Today at 2 o’clock, you are to report to the Pokémon Center in the Osaka district in downtown Tokyo. There, you will receive specific instructions on the next physical challenge. Please bring the two small boxes inside the big box you got today with you. And don’t forget to pick teams! This challenge’s team captains are Madison and Mimi. Madison: I’m a team captain? All right! Sakura: (jumping up and down) Ooh! Pick me, Madison! Pick me! Sora: Hey! Where is Mimi, anyway? All of a sudden, Mimi walks in. But instead of wearing the white skirt that she usually combines with her red, white, and blue blouse, she is wearing a very tight pair of yellow shorts. Yolei: Mimi? What happened? Sora: And why are you wearing my shorts from last night? Mimi: (scratches her head) Well you see, I had a little accident this morning... The girls pile into their vans and make their way downtown. It doesn’t take long for them to get to their destination... the Pokémon Center in downtown Tokyo. When they went inside, though, this was not any regular Pokémon Center. Instead of a Nurse Joy, loads of Chansey running around the place, and trainers looking to have their Pokémon healed, they instead found a shop full of Pokémon merchandise as well as a restaurant and a performance stage. [The team assignments (picked in random order): Yellow - Madison, Duplica, Sakura, Nikki, Misty, Yolei, Giselle, and Jun Pink - Mimi, Casey, Sasami, Meilin, Rita, Kari, Chelsea, and Sora] With Jun and Sora carrying the two small boxes from earlier, they make their way towards the stage. As they approach it, a green haired woman steps out from behind the curtains. The girls look at her closely, as they had seen her somewhere before. Sasami runs ahead of the group and goes to greet the woman. Sasami: Hi Kiyone! Kiyone: (turning towards Sasami) Just a minute. (yelling backstage) Hey, those costume racks better be ready! The girls are here! Mimi: Are you the stage director, Kiyone? Kiyone: More or less. At least for your challenge. (sees Jun and Sora still holding the boxes) You two can just put those down here on the front of the stage. Jun and Sora do so. Kiyone then takes a seat next to the boxes as the girls gather around her. Misty: So what are doing today, Kiyone? The message we got from Miss McKenzie wasn’t exactly crystal clear. Sora: What’s in these little boxes anyway? Kiyone: You’ll see in just a minute. But let me explain the challenge first. First of all, can you girls get into your teams? Madison and her teammates move to Kiyone’s left, while Mimi and her teammates slide over to Kiyone’s right. Kiyone then handed out appropriately colored handbands to each of them. Kiyone: Okay, simply put, you girls are going to participate in a karaoke contest. Madison: (her eyes light up) Karaoke? Wow! Mimi: (jumping up and down) I can’t wait to get up on stage and sing! This’ll be great! Kiyone: Now, in these boxes are several books. Each box has three manuals which lists all of the songs that are available. Also in there are two books which contain pictures of the artists from their performances of these songs. Once your team chooses their songs, we’ll give you copies of their music videos to study. In other words, you’re not just singing. You’ll also be dressed like the artists you are portraying, as well as dancing to their moves. Kari: That’s a lot to do. Duplica: We don’t have to do this all by tonight, do we? Kiyone: No. We need to be at least somewhat reasonable. You have until eight o’clock tomorrow night to prepare for your performances. Good luck! With that, Kiyone goes backstage to continue preparations for tomorrow night. Miss McKenzie then walks in from the front door. Layla: Well, I see Kiyone has already briefed you on the challenge. Sakura: (smiles) Yep. We’re going to sing, dance, and dress like pop stars! Layla: I think I should give you girls time to choose your songs. The two teams take their box and head to opposite sides of the restaurant. Once they’re far enough, Madison’s team gets settled. Once Jun puts it down on the table, Madison immediately opens it. On top of the pile of books inside is a pink sheet of paper. On the other side of the room, Mimi opens her team’s box to discover the exact same thing. Madison: (reading aloud) This challenge will be split into three parts... Mimi: (reading aloud) Each part has a different theme, which is listed below... Sakura: (reading aloud) In the first part, three or four team members will sing a song from a girl group. Rita: (reading aloud) One person will go solo in the second part of the competition, which requires that person to sing a song from a distinguished diva. Misty: (reading aloud) The final part involves three or four team members singing a song from a boy band. Sora: (reading aloud) The team that compiles the highest composite score will win the challenge. The teams take the song selection manuals out and begin looking over their choices. Let’s see what the yellow team is up to... Yolei: How about that one? Giselle: “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls? You have got to be kidding me. Misty: I agree. I think we’d look really freaky dressed up as them. Sakura: What about doing one of those Destiny’s Child videos? Madison: Hey, that’s not a bad idea, Sakura! Just think of the possibilities! Yolei: I say we do it! I’ve always wanted to dance like Destiny’s Child! Madison: (writing down on a piece of paper) Okay, we’ll do a song by Destiny’s Child. But which one? Meanwhile, let’s see how the pink team is doing... Kari: Mimi, I think you should do the solo. Sora: Yeah. You could probably carry a tune better than anyone else here. Mimi: Okay, I’ll do it. But which song shall I sing? Chelsea: Just pick one. You’ve got so much talent that I don’t think the judges will score you low no matter what you sing. Casey: Why don’t you sing a Madonna song? Mimi: What am I going to sing? “Like a Virgin?” Oh, please... Rita: Not a Madonna fan, I take it. Mimi: Ooh! How about this one? Chelsea: (sweatdrops) Britney Spears? Kari: Personally, I prefer Christina Aguilera. Casey: You prefer? What, do you listen to that cheap stuff? Kari: What can I say? I’ve been bored since we saved the Digiworld from MaloMyotismon. So sue me. Meilin: Mimi, if you do a Britney Spears song, I will personally wring your neck! Mimi: (singing) Oops, I did it again! Meilin: Wait, why are you singing? Mimi: (singing) I played with your heart! Meilin: You’re really asking for it, aren’t ya? Mimi: (singing) Got lost in the game. Meilin: Are you deaf or something? Sasami: I think you’d better stop, Mimi. Mimi: Huh? Oh, I was right on tune, too. Sora: Mimi, Britney Spears is not a diva. Mimi: Shows how much you know about American music, Sora. Chelsea: Why can’t we do Japanese music? American music is too poppy for my tastes. Sora: For a girl who has had romance on her mind for the past week, I find that last statement to be out of character. Chelsea: (whines) Sora! I thought you agreed you weren’t going to tell anyone! Rita: It’s not like everyone’s in the dark about your relationship with Richie. Chelsea: (blushes) Can we not bring that up right now? Mimi: Chelsea’s right. We’ve got some work to do. The two teams select their songs and inform Kiyone of their decisions. She then hands each team three videotapes; one for each song they selected. She directs them to two makeshift viewing rooms, where the girls go to study the videos in detail. In one of the rooms, a team is watching the video “Summer Girls.” Sasami, Rita, and Casey examine the video closely while the other girls enjoy this short break off. Sasami: (CC) We’ve decided that for the boy band round, we’re going to sing “Summer Girls” by LFO. I haven’t heard it personally before, but now that I’m seeing it for the first time, I like it! The words to the song run on the bottom of the screen, as the girls attempt to sing along with them. Sasami: (singing) New kids on the block. Rita: (singing) Had a bunch of hits. Casey: (singing) Chinese food makes me sick. Meilin: (angry after the insult) Hey! Chinese food does not make people sick, Casey! Casey: I’m just singing the song, Meilin! I love Chinese food! Really! Mimi: Yeah, Meilin. (laughs) Take a chill pill. Meilin: Take a chill pill? What, are you living in the 90’s? Over in the other viewing room... Madison: (CC) I’m going to attempt the greatest singing challenge of my life. I’m going to try and sing a Mariah Carey song. The song “I Still Believe” plays in the background as Giselle and Jun watch from the back of the room. Giselle: You know, I’d sing a Mariah Carey song if I had that type of vocal range. Jun: Oh, stop kidding Giselle. You wouldn’t sing that song even if you had the talent! Giselle: (glares at Jun) So you’re telling me that I’m not talented? Jun: Wait a sec, Giselle, I didn’t say that! Sakura walks over to the duo with a videotape labeled ‘Destiny’s Child.’ The name of the video, though, is strategically blotted out by the cameras. Sakura: So Giselle, are you doing this with Nikki and me or what? Giselle: I’m not sure about this, Sakura. We don’t even look the part. Sakura: Would you rather sing a boy band song? Giselle: (sticks out her tongue) Ick. No way. (takes the video from Sakura) Let’s find out what moves we have to learn for this video. Sakura: (CC) I’m surprised. I expected Giselle to jump at the chance to sing and dance to a video that shows so much skin. A little bit later, Madison is backstage, getting ready to head into the main dressing room, where all of the outfits are stored. She is currently looking for one that is right for her video. Madison: Let’s see... She pulls out a female U.S. army uniform. She frowns and slides it back into the rack. Madison: This may be dedicated to the army, but I’m sure not wearing one of their uniforms to impress them. The next ensemble she pulls out is a white tank top and some tight black pants. Madison: That one’s a bit too daring for my taste. She then pulls out what seems to be a human-sized version of a Barbie outfit. Madison: Cute, but not my style. Madison continues to rummage through the clothes, still trying to find something to wear. * * * * * * * * * * Night Twenty Seven Sakura, Giselle, and Nikki are in the living room, practicing their routine for the competition. Sakura: This shouldn’t be too hard. Giselle: It’s as easy as pie. Nikki: Easy for you two to say. I feel like I’ve got three left feet. Sakura: Nonsense, Nikki! We’ll get through this together! Giselle: Besides, ninety percent of the choreography just requires us to wiggle our hips and shake our butts! Nikki: Why did you choose this video anyway, Sakura? Sakura: I thought it would be fun to do! I’ve always wondered what it was like to be Destiny’s Child, and now we’ll get our chance! Giselle: I agree. Just one question though, Sakura. Sakura: What? Giselle: I’m Beyonce, right? Sakura: I am. I’ve got the most adoring figure, remember? Giselle: Since when? Have you avoided looking at me for the past four weeks? Sakura: Besides, you’d be better off as Michelle. Giselle: Michelle? You’re telling me that I’m the new girl? (points to Nikki) Why can’t Nikki be the new girl? Sakura: Nikki’s Kelli. I picked our roles based on who would fit the names the closest. Giselle: I don’t see why you and I can’t switch. I’m more suited to be Beyonce. Sakura: Giselle, drop it. I don’t feel like arguing about this. Nikki: (CC) Sakura and Giselle are bickering over who should be Beyonce, while I’m still nervous about the whole ‘shake your booty’ that we’re supposed to do in this song. The girls try to stay in step with the music, but Nikki seems to be struggling. She’s not used to tossing her body in so many directions at once. Sakura and Giselle both have experience in this, one way or another. But she was a rookie at it. That was obvious from the start. Giselle: Wiggle your hip a bit more! Nikki: I’m not comfortable with this. Sakura: Nikki, you have to! That’s what the whole song is about! Nikki: I don’t think I can do this. Giselle: Stop thinking don’t and start thinking do! You’ll dance on stage with us and you’ll dance perfectly, whether you like it or not! Sakura: Yeah! We’re with you all the way! The trio continues to practice late into the night, with Giselle and Sakura continuing to usher Nikki on to learn the moves for the competition. Day Twenty Eight With four hours to go until showtime, Kiyone and the stage crew rushed to get the final preparations up. Miss McKenzie was overseeing the whole thing, making sure that everything is set up correctly. Kiyone: Can I get a test on mic 1 please? (turning one way) Those chairs were supposed to be up an hour ago! (turning another way) You’re hanging the banner upside down! (turning yet another way) Why isn’t the judges’ table set up? (holds her in frustration) Why do I have to do everything around here? Back at the mansion, the girls were making some final preparations of their own... Up in Sora and Mimi’s bedroom, Sora, Chelsea, Meilin, and Kari are almost done making their costumes. Using miniature paint blowers and stencils, they are making several assorted designs on their T-shirts. Chelsea: This was a great idea! Kari: I agree. Tye-dying our shirts will not only make us stand out above the other acts, but will allow us to define ourselves as individuals! Meilin: I don’t know what you just said Kari... but I love it! Sora: Me too. Mimi walks into the room to check on the girls’ progress. But when she spots the cameraman in the room, she quickly shooes him away. Mimi: (pushing the cameraman out) Go away! This is supposed to be a secret! You’ll have to wait for the show to see what we’re wearing. With that, Mimi closes the door in the camera’s face. Night Twenty Eight It’s almost showtime at the Pokémon Center Sound Stage in downtown Tokyo. The restaurant / dinner theatre is packed to the gills and then some. Not only are they enjoying some great food, they are anxiously awaiting the start of the show. Backstage, the two teams, already dressed in their costumes, are waiting to go on. Kiyone walks past them, on the way to the stage, but not before giving each them a pat on the back for good luck. Just before Kiyone walks on stage, the theme song for “Pokémon: The Johto Journeys” plays on the restaurant’s PA system for the fourth time in the past forty five minutes. Meilin: If I hear that dang theme song one more time, I’m going to barf! Sora: Relax, Meilin. You won’t hear it anymore once the show starts. Kiyone, remembering something, quickly runs back to the girls and calls the two team captains over. She takes a quarter out of her pocket and shows it to them. Kiyone: Well, Mimi and Madison, before we begin, we have to decide which team goes on first in each of the rounds. Madison, you call the first toss. Madison: (as Kiyone flips it into the air) Tails! The quarter flips several times before landing on the ground, with the tails side up. Kiyone: (picking up the quarter) Does your team want to go first or second in the first round? Madison: I think they’ll do better if they go second. Kiyone nods and prepares to toss the quarter into the again. She signals for Mimi to call it this time. Mimi calls heads, but the quarter lands tails. Madison, with the choice again, decides to go first in the second round. The process is repeated once more, with Madison calling again. This time, the quarter lands in favor of Mimi. She defers the option to Madison though, satisfied with her trio being the final act. Kiyone confirms the results of the tosses one more time, then wishes them good luck as she heads on stage. Madison: (CC) Let’s see if Mimi is as good at singing as she claims to be. Mimi: (CC) Madison, a singer? We’ll just see about that. The Japanese theme song to “Tenchi Universe” begins to play in the background. The audience claps as Kiyone comes out on stage, waving one hand in the air towards the crowd, while the other is holding a microphone. A spotlight appears and shines down on her. Kiyone: Good evening, everyone! Are you guys having fun tonight? Crowd: (shouts) No! Kiyone: I see. Well, I’m here to kick it up a notch! What’s the one thing that everyone likes to do when they go out? Voice # 1: Go drinking! Kiyone: Okay, I guess. But something else? Voice # 2: Find someone to make out with! Kiyone: (slaps her face with her free hand) Oh brother. (looks at the crowd) Look people, I’m talking about the one thing that we never get tired of! Crowd: Huh? Kiyone: Karaoke! Crowd: Karaoke? Kiyone: Yes! Karaoke! Crowd: Oh. (begins to shout and holler) Yeah! Kiyone: Good! I see that you all have a lot of energy tonight! But before we begin, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kiyone and I’m your host for tonight’s competition, being done as part of the Roomies reality series. We’re here at the Tokyo Pokémon Center Sound Stage and everything’s ready to go! Crowd: Hurray! Kiyone: Now, tonight, sixteen young ladies will sing their hearts out just for you! They’ll be singing some of the most popular songs from America! How about that? Crowd: Boo! Kiyone: Hey, I know some of you don’t like that kind of music, but let’s give these ladies a chance, okay? Now, before we begin, there are two things we’ve got to do. First, let’s tell you what these ladies are competing for. She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a hundred dollar bill. Kiyone: This, as you all know, is a hundred dollar bill. These girls tonight are competing to add a thousand of these to their personal jackpot. That’s one hundred grand more that each of these girls could win at the end of their journey. So as you can see, tonight is a big night for them. The crowd gasps in amazement as Kiyone puts the bill back into her pocket. Kiyone: Luckily for me, I don’t have to worry about deciding which team gets that money. That’s left up to our panel of judges for tonight’s competition. The spotlight moves to the left of the stage, where it begins to shine on the three judges. Kiyone: Our first judge may be a bubblehead and unfortunately, my partner, but when it comes to karaoke, she just can’t get enough. Meet Mihoshi, everyone! Mihoshi smiles and waves dumbfoundedly at the crowd. This grabs the attention of the crowd... especially all of the single men in the room, as they gawked at her impressive figure. Mihoshi: Hi! Let’s sing some karaoke! Right Kiyone? Kiyone: (to herself) Yeah, sure. (to the audience) Anyway, our next judge is the captain of a spaceship named the Outlaw Star. He just wants to fly! Here’s Gene Starwind! Gene stands up and then bows to the crowd. He then turns towards Mihoshi and takes her by the hand. Gene: Say, after this is done, you want to go party with me? Mihoshi: (her eyes light up) Really? Oh, I’d love to! Gene: That’s great! Then we can have a little fun afterwards, of course. Mihoshi: (oblivious to the true meaning of Gene’s words) Sure. Kiyone: (growls) Damn Mihoshi. Why does she get all the luck? Kiyone turns and sees that the crowd is eyeing her curiously. She tries to laugh it off. Kiyone: I’m just kidding, folks. I’ve had my share of guys too. Anyway, our third and final judge is a fanfic author from Canada. Most of you know him as the host of ‘Anime Survivor.’ He feels so alive... give it up for Survivor Globie! Globie stands up and bows to the crowd, receiving a standing ovation. Kiyone: Hey Globie, I’ve got a question for you. How come you never include anyone from the more adventurous anime in ‘Anime Survivor?’ Hey, some of us are dying to get on that show of yours, myself included. Globie shrugs his shoulders, obviously not knowing how to answer that. Kiyone: Better yet, here I am hosting a competition for the ‘Roomies’ reality series, yet there’s only one representative from my show? Sasami’s cute and all, but seriously! Do they expect her to win this whole thing by herself? It’s discrimination, I tell you! She glances at the crowd and sees that they once again are giving her a few strange looks. She then hears someone yelling at her through an earpiece she’s wearing. After a few seconds, the yelling stops. She recomposes herself before talking to the crowd once again. Kiyone: Did I mention that Sasami and the other girls are all given an equal chance to win this, no matter how uneven the anime representation is? (coughs) Anyway, I think it’s time to begin this contest. If the girls are all ready, we’ll start. Out of nowhere, a small board appears out of nowhere. Kiyone lifts it up and sees that the words ‘Round 1: Girl Groups’ is on it. Kiyone: Well, it seems that our first round of performers will be singing songs by girl groups. Isn’t that peachy keen? Anyway, let’s meet our first act... Mihoshi: Kiyone! Kiyone: (looking over towards her partner) What? Can’t you see I’m in the middle of an introduction here? Mihoshi: Oh, can I introduce this one? Kiyone: (sighs) Okay. Just don’t screw up, okay? Mihoshi: Yeah! Anyway, let’s meet our first act! These four young girls have done everything they’ve wanted to do as kids. Now, they’re ready to become teenagers... although technically one of them already is. You know, they’re all learning about looking for cute boys, getting them to notice them, going on a date with them, and then getting it on behind their parents’ backs! Kiyone: (yelling) Mihoshi! The crowd laughs at Mihoshi’s little joke. Mihoshi: Ah, so before Kiyone strangles me, meet Sore-a, Kelsey, May-i-lin, and Kare! Sora, Chelsea, Meilin, and Kari come out on stage, dressed in tye dye short sleeve shirts and blue jeans: with Sora and Meilin wearing shorts while Kari and Chelsea sport pants. They are all angry at Mihoshi for messing up their names. Especially Meilin. Meilin: Hey birdbrain! Didn’t your mom ever tell you how to read a cue card? Mihoshi: Oh! Sorry! Did I mess your names up? Everyone in the room facefaults to the ground. After getting up, Kiyone shakes her head in embarrassment. Kiyone: At least you all know what I have to put up with twenty-four seven, huh? Random Person: Why don’t you just switch partners? Kiyone: (to herself) ‘Cause she refuses to be with anyone but me. Kiyone turns her attention to the four girls on stage. Kiyone: Anyway, I apologize for my partner. She’s not the brightest tool in the shed. Meilin: I know what exactly what you mean. I have a friend just like her. Sora: I’ll second that. Kari: A brother for me. Chelsea: Not me. I think all of my friends are bright. Kiyone: Let’s just get back to business, okay? For the folks at home and for the crowd, will you girls properly introduce yourselves? Meilin: I’m Meilin! That’s Chinese, for those of you keeping score! Chelsea: I’m Chelsea. Sora: I’m Sora. Kari: And I’m Kari. Kiyone: Okay ladies, what song are you doing for us tonight? Sora: Well, we thought about it for awhile before finally deciding that we’re going to do “This is Me” from Dream. Kiyone: Ooh. I heard that one’s got a lot of dancing in it. Are you up to the task? Meilin: (smirks) Just watch us. Kiyone: Okay everyone, here’s Meilin, Chelsea, Sora, and Kari as Dream, performing “This is Me.” Kiyone steps off stage as the girls take their place. Kari is up front, with Meilin to her right, Sora to her left, and Chelsea almost directly behind. The music starts playing and the girls start dancing along to the beat, quickly drawing a few cheers from the crowd. Kari: This is me. This is me. Ah... yeah... c’mon. The introduction plays out as Sora tries to get the crowd moving. The first verse begins, with Kari signing. Kari: (signing) She stole your heart Only did it because she could Chewed you up and spat you out That girl never was no good Baby I will never do that I'll love you faithfully But your suspicious mind thinks I'm gonna repeat her story The crowd is really into it thanks to Kari’s nearly perfect singing voice. Meilin and Chelsea then jump into the song. Meilin and Chelsea: (singing) She's making you crazy Making you a wreck Making you follow me Making me a suspect You seem to think I'm playing her game Don't you know my name The crowd quiets down because the duo’s singing isn’t as good, but Kari jumps back in to lead the group into the chorus. Kari: (singing) That was her, this is me Kari, Meilin, Sora, and Chelsea: (singing) We're as different as can be She and I we're nothing alike You’re confusing day with night That was then, this is now You wanna trust me, But you don't know how I'm never gonna mess around, Set you down, can't you see That was her [Chelsea: That was her] And baby this is me [Chelsea: This is me] [Sora: This is me...] Chelsea: (CC) I can’t believe how much the crowd loves us! This is amazing! Meilin, Sora, and Chelsea: (singing) That was her, this is me As the instrumental break plays, the girls do their best to keep the crowd in it. Sora and Meilin head to the crowd, looking for someone to bring up on stage. Kari starts blowing kisses to another section, while Chelsea talks to the audience. Chelsea: (points one guy out) You want to come up? Yeah, you with your mouth wide open! (waves him up) C’mon, it won’t hurt! Sora and Meilin spot the guy Chelsea’s pointing to. Meilin, being closer, quickly runs over and pulls him back towards the stage. Sora returns empty-handed, but no matter, because a now dazed Jim Hawking stands on center stage. Sora and Meilin start to walk around Jim, running their hands over his chest and shoulders. Into the final chorus, with Kari now dancing around Jim as well, while Chelsea decides to take a risk by jumping off the stage to do some crowd surfing. Kari, Meilin, Sora, and Chelsea: (singing) That was her, this is me [Sora: Oh...] We're as different as can be [Meilin: Uh... yeah] She and I are nothing alike [Kari: Oh, oh] You confusing day with night [Chelsea: Day and night] That was then, this is now [Meilin: You're mine now] You wanna trust me, But you don't know how [Meilin: You don't know how] I'm never gonna mess around [Chelsea: Mess around...] Set you down, can't you see [Meilin: C'mon] That was her [Sora: That was her] And baby this is me [Kari: Get a grip] The music comes to an end, as Chelsea is finally lifted back on stage, and a dazed yet satisfied Jim is lifted to his feet. Jim makes his way off stage as the girls line up and take a bow in front of the delighted crowd. They then excitedly run off stage as Kiyone comes back up. Kiyone: Wow! They were good, weren’t they? The crowd whoops and hollers in agreement. Kiyone: I have to say, that young man they dragged up here must feel like he’s in heaven. Random Crowd Member: Oh yeah! This comment draws a laugh from the crowd. Kiyone begins introducing the next act. Kiyone: Well, I must say, this trio will have their work cut out for them. These three young girls are also going to attempt to show a little sex appeal tonight. Of course, it’s up to the judges to find out how much is enough. Here’s Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle! The three girls come out on stage. Each of them is wearing a very revealing all pink outfit, each one designed differently to accent one part of their body. Their hair is also colored in different ways. Nikki’s hair is brown, but highlighted with some red on top. Giselle, who’s a naturally brunette, is now sporting black hair. As for Sakura, her chestnut brown hair is now completely blonde. Kiyone: (smiles) It looks like this act came out dressed for the part. Okay, so who’s who here? Giselle: I’m Giselle, of course! She blows a kiss to the crowd, which of course makes them go crazy. Sakura: Hi! I’m Sakura! Her cute voice is enough to make the crowd go wild again. Nikki: And I’m Nikki! Hello Tokyo! The crowd goes dead silent. Nikki puts her hands on her hips and grumbles to herself. Nikki: Oh, don’t hate me ‘cause I’m not as cute as they are. Kiyone: So, what song are you girls going to do for us? Giselle: Well, as you said, we’re going for some sex appeal. And what better song than Destiny’s Child’s “Bootylicious!” The crowd cheers in approval. Kiyone: I see you’ve already got the crowd’s interest, so allow me to step out of the way. Ladies and gentlemen, here’s Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle as Destiny’s Child, singing “Bootylicious.” The music starts as the three girls take center stage. Sakura’s in the middle, with Nikki to her right and Giselle to her left. They start shaking their hips to the beat. Sakura: (guiding her hands down her body) Nikki? Can you handle this? Nikki: (bumping Sakura out of the way) Giselle? Can you handle this? Giselle: (pushing them both aside) Sakura? Can you handle this? Sakura and Giselle: (as Nikki steps back) I don’t think they can handle this! Whoo! Nikki faces stage right as she starts to dance and sing at the same time. Nikki: (singing a bit off-key) Barely move, we've arrived Lookin sexy, (slapping her butt) lookin fly Baddest chick, chick inside DJ, jam tonight Spotted me a tender thang There you are, come on baby Don't you wanna dance with me Can you handle, handle me Off stage, Sora, Chelsea, Meilin, and Kari can’t believe what they’re seeing. Nikki’s really getting into the song. In the meantime, Sakura moves to center stage, taking Nikki’s place, who continues to dance as she moves to the side. Sakura: (singing) You gotta do much better if you gonna dance with me tonight You gotta work your jelly if you gonna dance with me tonight Read my lips carefully if you like what you see Move, groove, prove you can hang with me By the looks I got you shook up and scared of me Hook up your seatbelt, it's time for takeoff The three girls join together in the chorus, as the crowd continues to cheer. Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle: (singing) I don't think you ready for this jelly I don't think you ready for this jelly I don't think you ready for this Sakura: (singing) Cause my body too bootylicious for ya babe The girls repeat the chorus once more, but this time when Sakura’s solo line comes up, she humps the stage floor once as she sings it. The crowd whistles with approval. Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle: (singing) Baby, can you handle this? Baby, can you handle this? Baby, can you handle this? I don't think you can handle this! The crowd noise reaches an all-time high as Giselle steps up for her solo, wiggling her body left and right as she does. Giselle: (singing) Move your body up and down [Sakura and Nikki: Whoo!] Make your booty touch the ground [Sakura and Nikki: Whoo!] I can't help but wonder why [Sakura and Nikki: Whoo!] Is my vibe too vibealacious for you, babe The final chorus starts up as the girls begin singing in unison. Sakura, Nikki, and Chelsea: (singing) I don't think you ready for this jelly I don't think you ready for this jelly I don't think you ready for this Sakura: (singing) Cause my body too bootylicious for ya babe The girls repeat the chorus five more times. Sakura and Giselle take this opportunity to go up to a few of the guys in the front row. Each taking one guy at a time, they shake their bodies vigorously in front of them for a few seconds, causing each guy to either cheer in delight, get a nosebleed, faint, or a combination of the three. The girls step back and join Nikki at center stage as the song ends. The trio, despite not having the best singing voices, definitely earned the respect of the crowd as they get a standing ovation. They bow carefully, making sure that nothing is showing after their wild performance. They then high five each other as they run off stage left. * * * * * * * * * * Kiyone: I have to admit, those girls have guts. I’d never do something like that at my age. I’d be afraid of someone stalking me after that. (looks at the crowd) And nobody better get any ideas, either. I’m a Galaxy Police Officer, you know. Kiyone then looks at the judges, who are scoring the acts. Kiyone: Well, our judges aren’t allowed to reveal their scores ‘til the end, but let’s see what they have to say. Mihoshi? Mihoshi: I couldn’t tell the difference between them, Kiyone. They were both so good! Kiyone: Gene? Gene: Let’s just say that I’ve never seen girls their age do the things they’ve done tonight. Man, I won’t be able to wash these eyes for a week! Kiyone: Okay... Globie? Globie: I enjoyed the two acts. Very interesting, I must say. Kiyone: I have to agree. Both of those acts were superb. But after all that excitement, I think we need to slow things down a bit. Another sign mysteriously appears next to Kiyone. She picks it up and shows it to the crowd. The words ‘Round 2: Divas’ are on it. Kiyone: Round 2 features solo acts by the two team captains. Two very talented young ladies who must be very brave to attempt something like this. And let me tell you something, some of the songs that these divas sing are hard on the lungs. Your voice has to be in excellent condition to handle these songs properly. Let’s see what we’ve got. The judges and the crowd eagerly await the next act. Kiyone: Our first contestant actually hails from right here in Tokyo... the Reedington district, to be exact. In fact, she actually is one of the lead solos for her elementary school choir! That gives her quite an edge over her opponent. But is that enough to handle the song she’s about to sing? Please welcome Madison Taylor everyone! The crowd cheers and claps as Madison comes out, surprisingly dressed in her school uniform. Kiyone: (shaking hands with her) Nice to meet you, Madison. Madison: Likewise. It’s a pleasure to be here tonight. Kiyone: So Madison, compared to the last round, it seems that you’ve decided to not be flashy and instead wear your uniform. Any particular reason why? Madison: That’s simple. I want everyone to focus on my talented singing voice. Kiyone: Well, I think everyone’s focused on that right now. I can tell some of the guys out there are disappointed that you aren’t wearing something more revealing. Still, what song are you doing for us tonight? Madison: I know this one’s a toughie, but I’m going to try it. The song is “I Still Believe” from Mariah Carey. Kiyone: (starting to head off) Well, let’s see what you’ve got. Madison Taylor, performing Mariah Carey’s “I Still Believe.” The music begins as Kiyone hands Madison her microphone. Madison then takes her place at center stage, closing her eyes and raising the microphone until it is right in front of her chest. She opens her eyes and begins singing with her well tuned voice. Madison: (singing slowly) You look in my eyes and I get emotional inside. I know it's crazy but you still can touch my heart. And after all this time you'd think that I, I wouldn't feel the same but time melts into nothing and nothing's changed. Madison hits the high notes as the chorus begin. Madison: (singing) I still believe someday you and me will find ourselves in love again. I had a dream someday you and me will find ourselves in love again. The crowd claps in approval as Madison shows off her smile and begins the second verse. Madison: (CC) I was a bit nervous coming out here and singing to such a big crowd, but I now suddenly feel a whole lot better. As Madison heads into the final chorus, she encourages the crowd to wave their hands back and forth in the air. Madison: (singing) I still believe some day you and me in love again. I had a dream someday you and me will find ourselves in love again. I still believe (yeah I still believe) someday you and me (baby) in love again. Madison sighs in relief and then curtsies to the crowd as they applaud her effort. Madison hands the microphone back to Kiyone before heading off stage. Once Madison is off the stage, she sighs in relief. Mimi passes by her, getting into position for her act. Neither of them notice the other, as they are both focused on their perfomances... the one that Madison just finished and the one Mimi is about to partake. Kiyone: That was Madison, everyone! She’s got a bright future in the music business, if she decides to pursue that field of interest, of course. Let’s meet her opponent, shall we? She also hails from Tokyo, but she’s from the Odaiba district. It looks like there’s going to be a little pride on the line as well. Although she may not have the singing experience that Madison has, this young lady has been known to strum a few bars perfectly to herself. Let’s see if that’s enough to impress the judges. Introducing Mimi Tachikawa! Mimi runs on stage screaming with delight as she blows two-handed kisses out to the audience. She is dressed in a long strapless pink dress that shows off her developing chest. The dress also stops just a few inches above her knees. Kiyone is pleasantly surprised at Mimi’s choice of clothing, but she already knew that Mimi was one of the older girls in the house, so it was perfectly fine to her. Kiyone: Well well, I see someone tried to be a little daring tonight. Mimi: Well, I’m aware that Madison is a slightly better singer than I am. So, I decided to even the score a little bit. Kiyone: I have to say, you’ve already got the young men in the crowd focused on you. Mimi: (laughs) I’m used to it. Kiyone: So Mimi, what are you singing for us tonight? Mimi: Being from America, I have to say that one of the most influential divas of our time has got to be Whitney Houston. So, I’ve decided to sing her hit, “My Love is Your Love.” Kiyone: Interesting choice. Let’s see if you can pull it off. Here’s Mimi Tachikawa, singing Whitney Houston’s “My Love is Your Love.” Kiyone hands Mimi her microphone and heads off the stage. Mimi clears her throat as the music begins to play. She calms down considerably from her exciting entrance as she focuses her mind on the song. The first verse begins as Mimi begins singing. Mimi: (singing) If tomorrow is judgment day And I’m standing on the front line And the Lord asks me what I did with my life I will say I spent it with you, it’s alright The crowd is silent as Mimi continues her performance. Mimi begins to feel some pressure, but she resumes her singing anyway. Mimi: (singing) If I wake up in world war three [World war, world war three] I see destruction and poverty [Oh my, my, my] And I feel like I wanna go home It’s okay if you’re coming with me, it’s alright The more upbeat chorus then begins and Mimi is ready for it. Mimi: (signing as she picks the beat up) Your love is my love and my love is your love It would take an eternity to break us The chains of Amistad couldn’t hold us Your love is my love and my love is your love It would take an eternity to break us And the chains of Amistad couldn’t hold us Mimi smiles and begins tapping her feet to the beat. She feels much more relaxed as she begins the second verse. Mimi: (singing) If I lose my fame and fortune [It really don’t matter] And my home is on the streets [On the streets, oh Lord] And I’m sleeping in grand central station [Okay] It’s okay if you’re sleeping with me The last line really excites the crowd as Mimi blushes in response. Mimi begins tossing her hips from side to side as the chorus starts up again. Mimi: (signing) Your love is my love and my love is your love It would take an eternity to break us The chains of Amistad couldn’t hold us Mimi continues to sing the chorus until the music fades away. She then bows to the crowd as Kiyone comes back up to get her microphone. Mimi waves goodbye as she trots off the stage. Kiyone: That was simply amazing. What do you think, folks? The crowd cheers loudly with applause. Kiyone turns to the judges. Kiyone: Well judges, any thoughts on this part of the competition? Gene: (standing up) Yes. Can I just say that Mimi is one sweet cookie I wouldn’t mind getting my hands on. The boys in the room whistle in agreement. Kiyone buries her face in her hands and shakes her head in disbelief. She then turns her attention back to the judges. Kiyone: Mihoshi? Globie? Anything? The other two judges decline to comment. Kiyone didn’t mind, especially since it keeps her partner from saying something stupid. Kiyone: Well, it’s time for the third and final round, folks! Let’s see what our final contestants have to sing. Another small sign appears. This one is labeled ‘Final Round: Boy Bands.’ Kiyone groans as she picks it up and shows it to the audience, who also groans in disbelief. One small guy in the middle of the crowd, though, yells ‘Yeah!’ The rest of the crowd reacts by throwing all of their cups right at him, burying the small fry under the pile. Kiyone: (sweatdrops) Talk about your audience clichés. Anyway, our first group of contestants in this final round may not exactly be the perfect match for each other. Still, they do have one thing in common. (smiles) They’re looking for some hot boyfriends! Here’s Yolei, Jun, Duplica, and Misty! The four girls come out in their respective order, each drawing some cheers from the crowd. They are all dressed in white T-shirts that are cut off at their belly buttons, as well as matching white jeans. Kiyone: Hello ladies! How are you tonight? Yolei: Perfecto, of course! Kiyone: So, who’s who? Misty: (points to Yolei) That’s Yolei with the glasses. (points to Jun) Jun’s the one here with the weird haircut. (points to Duplica) This girl with the ponytails is Duplica. Yolei, Jun, and Duplica: (together) And the redhead here is Misty. Duplica: (winks) She’s available for dates, by the way. Misty: (blushes) I am not! Duplica: I know. You’ve already got Ashy-boy anyway. Misty: Ash is not my boyfriend! Yolei: Let’s just move on, k? Kiyone: Yes, let’s. Anyway, what are you ladies going to sing for us? Jun: We’ve decided to sing “I Do” from 98 Degrees. Kiyone: Okay then. I definitely want to see this. Here’s Yolei, Jun, Duplica, and Misty, singing “I Do” from 98 Degrees. The song begins playing as the girls take their place. From left to right, here’s how they’re standing on stage: Misty, Yolei, Duplica, and Jun. Duplica leads off the first verse. Duplica: (singing) All I am, All I'll be Everything in this world All that I'll ever need Is in your eyes Shining at me When you smile I can feel All my passion unfolding Yolei: (singing) Your hand brushes mine And a thousand sensations Seduce me cause I The girls team-up to sing the chorus together. Yolei, Jun, Duplica, and Misty: (singing) I do Cherish you For the rest of my life You don't have to think twice I will love you still From the depths of my soul It's beyond my control I've waited so long to say this to you If you're asking do I love you this much I do Into the final chorus, with some of the crowd singing along with them. Yolei, Jun, Duplica, and Misty: (singing) I've waited so long to say this to you If you're asking do I love you this much I do Duplica: (singing) Oh, I do The four girls take a bow as the crowd claps for them. They then walk off the stage as Kiyone walks back on. Kiyone: Weren’t they darling? I bet they won’t be looking for boyfriends after that little number, if you know what I mean. But I bet you that their opponents have a few tricks planned as well. Let’s say hello to Sasami, Rita, and Casey! The three girls come out on stage. Sasami waves a friendly hello to Kiyone and then Mihoshi, while Rita and Casey shyly stand to either side of her. Each of the girls are wearing clothes from Abercrombie & Fitch. Kiyone: So Sasami, how are you and your friends tonight? Sasami: To tell you the truth, I think we’re a little nervous. Kiyone: Really? Oh, it’s not so bad. The audience has been pretty kind to everyone else thus far. Anyway, which one is Rita and which one is Casey? Rita: (raising her hand) I’m Rita. Kiyone: (points to Casey) Which means that you’re Casey, right? Casey: Correct. Kiyone: Okay, now that I have your names straight, what song are you girls singing? Sasami: We’ve decided to sing “Summer Girls” by LFO. Kiyone: Oh, I love that song! This, I’ve gotta see! Allow me to step aside and let you girls get to work. Here’s Sasami, Rita, and Casey, singing LFO’s “Summer Girls.” The music starts as Sasami starts singing in her own distinctive way. Sasami: Yeah, I like it when the girls Stop by in the summer Do you remember? Do you remember When we met, last summer? Rita and Casey jump in and join Sasami in song. Sasami, Rita, and Casey: (singing) New Kids On The Block Had a bunch of hits Chinese food makes me sick And I think it's fly When girls stop by For the summer For the summer I like girls that Wear Abercrombie & Fitch I'd take her if I had one wish But she's been gone Since that summer Since that summer Casey happily jumps into the first verse, singing the song with joy. Casey: (singing) Hip-hop mama, spic n span Met you one summer And it all began You're the best girl That I ever did see The great Larry Byrd, jersey 33 When you take a sip You buzz like a hornet Billy Shakespeare wrote A whole bunch of sonnets Call me when you miss me 'Cause I can't speak baby Something in your eyes Really drove me crazy Now I can't forget you And it makes me mad You left one day And never came back Stayed all summer Then went back home Macualay Culkin wasn't home alone Fell deep in love but Now we ain't speaking Michael J. Fox was Alex P. Keaton When I met you I said my name is Rich You look like a girl From Abercrombie & Fitch As the song continues, the girls do their best to look as if they are enjoying their performance. Casey: (CC) This isn’t exactly how I expected to spend this Sunday night, but hey, I’m having fun! Sasami: (CC) I could swear that I had two left feet on stage. I felt like I was tripping over myself several times! The girls join together for one last time in the chorus. Sasami, Rita, and Casey: (singing) New Kids On The Block Had a bunch of hits Chinese food makes me sick And I think it's fly When girls stop by For the summer For the summer I like girls that Wear Abercrombie & Fitch I'd take her if I had one wish But she's been gone Since that summer Since that summer The song promptly ends. The audience applauds as the three girls take a bow. They then head off stage. Kiyone steps up for one last time. Kiyone: Well folks, that’s basically it. All that’s left is for the judges to decide which team will win this challenge. We will break for ten minutes to allow the judges to do so. Thank you! With that, Kiyone walks off the stage. She heads out of the room, with Mihoshi, Gene, and Globie following her. Backstage, the two teams were evaluating their own performances. Yolei: Wow, I didn’t know Madison was such a great singer! Sakura: Well, she has done several solos with the school choir. Yolei: I see. She sure has a seasoned voice. Misty: Mimi wasn’t that bad either, you know. Mimi: Really? You liked my performance? Sasami: It was spectacular, Mimi! I think you had everyone hanging on your every word. Sora: I guess it’s all up to the judges now... Elsewhere backstage, the judges were in a bit of an argument... Kiyone: Don’t give them a 10! They don’t deserve it! Mihoshi: Okay, how about a 6? Is that better? Globie: Look, can we hurry this up? I’ve got things to do. Gene: Me too. I’d like to go out and party tonight. As Kiyone and the judges head back to their places, Sasami comments on them after overhearing their argument. Sasami: (sighs) You’d think that they’d agree on something as simple as this. The crowd applauds as Kiyone comes back on stage. The three judges take their place off to the side. Kiyone: Before I announce the final results, let’s bring the teams out for one last round of applause for their great performances tonight. The girls come out and receive all sorts of cheers and hollers. Kiyone quiets them down. Kiyone: Okay Mihoshi, we’ll start with you. You have in your hands the results from the first round. Will you please read them? Mihoshi: (standing up) Certainly. After careful debate, the scores for the “This is Me” girls are 7.5, 9, and 8.5, for a total of 25 points. The scores for the girls who performed “Bootylicious” are 7.5, 10, and 8, for a total of 25.5 points. So Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle win round one! Sakura, Nikki, and Giselle celebrate, not only because they won their round, but that Mihoshi actually got their names right. Kiyone: (as Mihoshi sits down) Thanks, Mihoshi. Gene, results for the diva round? Gene: (standing up) Before I announce the results, let me say that both Madison and Mimi are tremendously talented. Oh, and Mimi, I’m available if you’re looking for a date. Mimi: (shouting at Gene) In your dreams, buddy! Gene: (shrugs his shoulders) So much for that. Anyway, Madison, who went first, scored three 9.5s, for a total of 28.5 points. Mimi, who went second, scored 8.5, 10, and 9, for a total of 27.5 points. Madison and her team win round two. Madison bows to the audience, as Mimi looks a little disappointed that she lost to her. Gene sits down as Kiyone prompts Globie to stand up. The crowd wasn’t happy that Mimi had lost, either. Kiyone: Survivor Globie, the reality show expert! How ‘bout telling us what the scores were for the final round? Globie: Well, there was a lot of uncertainty in this category. But we finally came up with scores that we could agree with. The 98 Degrees’ girls, as I like to call them, scored 7.5, 8.5, and 9, totaling 25 points. The LFO girls scored 7, 8.5, and another 8.5, giving them a total of 24 points. I know, the scores are low, but that was our decision. As some of the girls tried to total up the team scores in their heads and determine a winner, Kiyone went ahead and announced winner. Kiyone: Thanks Globie! Now, the final composite score. Winning by a score of 79 to 76.5, the winners by a clean sweep of the competition, are the yellow team, led by captain Madison Taylor! Madison and her team jumps all around the stage in celebration, giving a few high fives to random audience members along the way. Mimi is still a little upset over being beat in the manner that they did, but she encouraged her team to congratulate Madison’s for their great performance. As they did, the crowd cheered even more. Kiyone: For Mihoshi, Gene Starwind, Survivor Globie, and all our competitors, this is Kiyone, signing off from the Pokémon Center Sound Stage! Good night everybody! End Episode Fourteen Layla: (VO) On our next episode... Mimi: (CC) Did Madison really beat me because she can sing better than I can? Giselle: (CC) You can’t touch this! Layla: (VO) Are the results of the fifth physical challenge up for questioning? Mimi: You can’t be a better singer than I am! I had the whole crowd in the palm of my hand! Madison: Only because you decided to dress like a slut! Misty: That sounds like something Giselle would say. Giselle: Hey, don’t drag me into this argument! We were on the same team, anyway! Layla: (VO) Meanwhile... what’s up with Jun? Jun: (crying) No. It can’t be! Sasami: Did Jun just run out of the mansion in tears? Sakura: Miss McKenzie just said that someone in the family got injured really bad. Layla: (VO) Oh, and Madison will love the next prize challenge... Madison: It’s a video scavenger hunt! Cool! Yolei: (CC) For some reason, I think Madison’s getting special treatment. First the karaoke, now this! Sakura: Didn’t we already get past this ‘kissing people’ part? Duplica: (smiles) But you’re so good at it, girl! Rita: No one will do that one. Nikki: No way! You’re kidding me! He’s doing it! Layla: (VO) To find out what happens, as well as an update on the current standings, tune in next week for the next episode of Roomies! Copyright Date: 9/11/01