"Roomies 2: Country Living" - written by Freedom Fighter First off, special thanks to Ryan McDonald, who pointed out that the Lake Victoria Base was not destroyed in Episode 4 of "Gundam Wing." Wufei had only blown up the dormitories, but the rest of the base remained intact. If I had more time to research it (since it's been awhile since that show was on), I probably would have remembered that. Chalk it up to all of the writing I did last week. So, after two up-til-5 a.m. nights and two up-til-4 a.m. nights since last Monday, the second season of Roomies comes to a fast and relieving end. But why the rush? Well, I know a lot of you out there also read Survivor Globie's "Anime Survivor 4: Pararakerus." And to have two reality series reach their conclusions in the same week is practically too much for any reader to bear. So, for the benefit of everyone, I released three episodes last week in order to get to this, the 18th and final episode, up today. That preps us for the official end of this fanfic next Tuesday, when the reunion special airs. And with all of the explanations out of the way... Episode 18! Episode Rating: PG-13... just to be on the safe side. Disclaimer: No real English words can describe the disclaimer, so we'll skip it this time around. ====== Tenchi: (VO) Last time, on Roomies... Jeri: She doesn't see it coming. Tenchi: (VO) Just what is Jeri up to these days... Jeri: (CC) I probably look desperate going around and asking everyone for help, but it's all part of my master plan! Mondo: Really? Mind sharing it with me? Jeri: Sorry, Mondo. Jeri smiles as she walks up to Mondo, giggles, and then has her puppet poke him on the nose. Jeri: But I need someone who's a little more mature. Tenchi: (VO) Jeri's plan may be coming to fruition, but Jessie's... Jessie: Say yes! Joey: No way! Tenchi: (VO) Might be going up in flames... Joey: No way! Jessie: Yes way! Bit: (yelling at the top of his lungs) Shut up! Tenchi: (VO) But once again, alliances take a back seat come the challenge... Duo: You mean we're going to train to be mobile suit pilots? Lucrezia: We're not going to go that far. Naomi: I see we've got quite the eclectic cast of rookie pilots here. Tenchi: (VO) Faye had a lot riding on the result of this one... Faye: (CC) This is about me doing what I've been unsuccessful at this whole game. And that's be on the winning side of a physical challenge. Tenchi: (VO) And in the end, her team pulled through... At the same time, the ship on the left side of the vidscreen also exploded. And Kiyone and Joey were celebrating because of it. Tenchi: (VO) Now, it's come down to this. Three days... Bit: Counting down the days 'til the end. I can't wait. Tenchi: (VO) One challenge... Roger: The war's far from over, Faye. Far from over. Tenchi: (VO) And two votes... Faye: Because if it does work, then I'll have egg on my face for missing out on a shot at getting into the final four myself! Tenchi: (VO) Tonight, the winner of Roomies is finally revealed! Jeri's Puppet: (appearing out of nowhere) And then it's every girl for herself! Melfina: Agreed! Tenchi: (VO) Coming up... next! = = = = = = = = = = Tenchi: (VO) For 42 days, 12 anime converge to live in a mansion somewhere in Japan... Mimi: (VO) But one of the 12 will leave with nearly a million dollars in cash... (Begin theme song, showing each of the contestants one at a time for two seconds each) - Kiyone, flying the Yagami while dressed in her Galaxy Police uniform - Duo, taking an order at the salvage yard he runs - Jeri, being held in Takato's arms after being rescued from the D-Reaper - Melfina, resting her head against Gene's shoulder - Joey, playing his favorite combo: Baby Dragon and Time Wizard - Roger, using his wristwatch to call for the Big O - Keitaro, standing in the snow as he stares at Tokyo University - Chi-Chi, training Goten out in the front yard - Bit, piloting the Liger Zero in battle against an Elephander - Mondo, tasting one of Rockna's dishes after a Mon World cooking competition - Faye, returning to the place where she believes she grew up - Jessie, recalling Wobbuffet back to its Pokéball after it had gotten out (Show scenes of the gang preparing for the final four vote, Mimi welcoming them to Smallville, and then a montage of all of the author cameos.) Mimi: (VO) Some of them will become friends... Tenchi: (VO) Others will develop grudges against those they hate... Mimi and Tenchi: (VO) But only one will walk away with up to a million dollars in cash and prizes. (End theme song, with a picture of all 12 contestants standing in front of the mansion.) = = = = = = = = = = Episode 18 - Taking the Fall (10.01.02) Night Thirty Nine That evening, Jessie is wandering around the mansion, still in search of alliance partners. Heading into the kitchen, she spots Melfina over by the sink, washing the dishes from dinner. Joey is sitting at the counter, munching on a turkey leg, as well as some green beans and mashed potatoes. Jessie: (cheerfully) Oh Melfina, can I talk to you in private? Melfina stops what she's doing to turn and look at Jessie. She then reaches for a paper towel to wipe her hands dry. Joey: Don't even bother, Mel. Jessie's just trying to get you in to her alliance. Jessie: (to Joey) Quiet, twerp! Melfina: (happily) Really? Another alliance for me to join? Joey: (blinks in confusion) Another? Just how many are you in? Melfina places her right index finger under her chin as she recalls the number of people she's allied with. Melfina: With Jessie's here, it would make four. Jessie: You mean you'll help me? Melfina: Of course! Joey: Wait a minute! Four? Melfina: Yes. (counting them off her fingers) One with Duo, one with Keitaro, one with Jeri, and now, one with Jessie. Jessie: (surprised and angry at the same time) Jeri? What kind of alliance is the Tamer twerpette running? She's supposed to be with me! Joey: (snickers) I guess Keitaro had a way of persuading you to join him. Melfina: Nope. I just caught him with Kiyone a few days ago. Keitaro needed someone as an ally, so I decided to help him out. Joey: (thinking out loud) The one with Duo, I understand. And I know that allying with Jessie is no good. Jessie: (shaking her fist at Joey) What do you mean no good? My alliance is the one that'll get into the final four! Melfina: I'm giving Jessie a chance to win. Joey: Why would you do that? Jessie: Because she knows that the money rightfully belongs to me! Melfina: Not really. I just think that you and Keitaro have a lot in common. Jessie: What would I have in common with that geeky pervert? Melfina: (smiles) You don't have a chance in hell. Jessie and Joey fall to the ground... which ends up being harder for Joey, since he had been sitting in a chair. Joey: (as he and Jessie get up) Melfina! Melfina: But it's true. I've calculated everyone's chances of getting into the final four and winning the whole game. And both Jessie's and Keitaro's are highly unlikely. Joey: That's great and all... but I was referring to the 'hell' part. Melfina: (giggles) Sorry, I couldn't resist. Back when Duo and I were still roommates, he talked a lot about the battles he was in. And he kept saying that word everytime he'd get to a part where he was destroying a mobile suit. Joey: (sighs) It's one thing hearing it from you. But if Mondo starts saying that word too, you can bet Chi-Chi's gonna start washing your mouths out with soap. Melfina: Why would she do that? Jessie: (growls) Aaarrgghh! Forget about that! We're supposed to be talking about MY alliance here. Melfina: I already said I was going to join you. No need to fuss. Jessie: Don't tell me not to fuss! Joey: Hey... what about the alliance you have with Jeri? Why are you with her? Jessie: Yeah. What are you gaining by allying with her? Melfina: I'm helping her get into the final four, along with a friend of hers. Jessie: I bet it's that Mondo kid. It is, right? Melfina: (shakes her head) Sorry, but Jeri's plan is top secret! Jessie: Oh yeah? Well, she's in my alliance, so I'll force her to tell me! Joey: You can tell me, right Mel? Melfina: (shakes her head again) Sorry. Jeri specifically said not to tell you about it all. Joey: Wha? Why would she keep it from me? I'm trustworthy! Jessie: If she's not going to tell me, she sure isn't telling you. Joey: That's what you think, Jessie! Melfina: I'd better get back to washing the dishes. (to Joey) And could you please hurry up so I can wash yours too? Joey: (turning back to his food) Alright. Jessie: (glancing at Joey) So... Joey: Don't even think about it! Jessie: (stomping away) I'll convince you yet! Joey: Unless it involves a lot of begging, don't bet on it! ====== An hour or so later, Jeri is on the phone and talking to Takato. Takato: (VO) Asking for my advice? No offense, but wouldn't Rika be better suited to help you with that? Jeri: If I was going to ask her, I would have called her first. Takato: (VO) Good point. Jeri: Rika's a great friend and all, but I think that you and I are closer than I am with her. Takato: (VO) Uh... yeah. Another good point. Jeri: Takato, please help me! My plan's working, but I'm hurting someone else's feelings in the process. Takato: (VO) But that's the point of an alliance, isn't it? You're keeping someone else out so that they get dropped out of the game. Right? Jeri: But I'm purposefully keeping him out of the loop because I'm afraid he'll spill the beans before it's time to vote. Takato: (VO) You're friends with this guy and yet you don't trust him enough to keep the whole thing a secret? Jeri: I'm afraid that he'll think I've already given up. That I'm sacrificing my shot at the prize money by helping someone else get it. Then he'll try to stop me, because he cares for me so much and... Jeri sniffles as she tries to hold back tears from falling. Jeri: Takato, I don't know what to do! Takato: (VO) Calm down, Jeri. First off, how many people know about it? Jeri: Three so far, but I have two others in mind. Takato: (VO) That would be six including you, right? Half of the people in the mansion? Jeri: Right. I think six would be enough for the plan to work. Takato: (VO) If I were you, I'd go through with it. Jeri: Really? Takato: (VO) Of course! And let your friend in on it too. It would increase the odds in your favor. Jeri: Are you sure I should? Takato: (VO) You've connected with this guy from day one. If you can't trust him after this long... then why did you ever become friends in the first place? Jeri: I guess you're right. Takato: (VO) Give the guy a chance. After all, he's lucky to have a friend like you. Jeri: (blushes) Takato... Takato: (VO) He might even be as lucky as me. Jeri: Somehow, I doubt he'd deny that. Takato: (VO, laughs) Okay Jeri. I've got homework to do. Stay strong! Jeri: I promise to stay strong, no matter what. Takato: (VO) We'll throw you a big 'homecoming' party when you get back. We miss you a lot, Jeri. Jeri: (smiles) I miss all of you too. Especially you, Takato. Takato: (VO) Shucks Jeri, now you're making me blush! Jeri giggles before saying goodbye and hanging the phone up. ====== Upstairs in her room, Chi-Chi is kneeling beside her bed. Her roommate, Jessie, is not in the room. Clasping her hands together, she bows her head and begins to pray. Chi-Chi: I hope you're watching over all of us, Goku. I hope that Gohan, Goten, and everyone else back at home are fine. And I hope that when this game ends in three days, the right person wins the game. I just wish you were here with me, Goku. She gets up from the floor and goes to her nightstand, where she picks up a picture of her with Goku and Gohan... the last one they ever took together as a family. Chi-Chi: Goku... please guide me down the right path! Please pray that when I vote on Saturday that I make the right choices. She then puts the picture back down, turns off the lights, and climbs into bed. ====== Outside on the balcony, Faye is smoking as she stares out into the forest. Faye: Tomorrow's got to be the day. I have to stop them both tomorrow. *************** Day Forty Keitaro: This is the day I tell her. This is the day I tell her. Keitaro is standing in front of the bedroom that Kiyone and Faye share. The door is closed, so he's knocking on it, waiting for one of them to answer. Faye ends up answering it, dressed in a loose white T-shirt and a pair of tight yellow shorts. Faye: (annoyed) What do you want this early in the morning? Keitaro: I need to talk to Kiyone. Faye: She's not here, okay? Keitaro: Do you know where she is? Faye: (yelling) How should I know? You just woke me up, okay? With that, Faye steps back in and slams the door in Keitaro's face. The force from the door causes his glasses to droop down slightly. Keitaro: (fixes his glasses) What's her problem? He heads for the stairs leading down into the basement. Just as he makes the turn though, Kiyone is coming up, wearing nothing but a pink and white towel around her body (and one wrapped around her head). Keitaro's nose starts to bleed as Kiyone realizes the precarious situation that she's just walked into. Kiyone: (trying to cover herself) Keitaro! Keitaro: (covering up his nose) Kiyone! I was looking for you! Kiyone: (clenching her fists angrily) Looks like you succeeded! Now, it's time for your reward! As Kiyone rears back and prepares to give Keitaro a fist in the face, he waves his arms about in a panic. Keitaro: Hold on, I just want to talk! Keitaro closes his eyes, waiting to be punched straight through the front door. But nothing has happened at all. He opens his eyes to see Kiyone's right fist just inches from his face. She slowly pulls it away and drops that arm back to her side. Kiyone: Keitaro, you'll be lucky if you live to be thirty at the rate you're going. I mean, with all of the beatings you get from women... Keitaro: I didn't even know you were down in the hot spring! Kiyone: (sighs) Give me a few minutes to get dressed, and I'll meet you on the balcony. Keitaro: (as Kiyone pushes him aside) Okay... ====== Up on the balcony... Keitaro: What's taking her so long? She said she only needed a few minutes. As if on cue, Kiyone walks onto the balcony, now fully dressed. Kiyone: Okay Keitaro, what did you want to talk about? Keitaro: Well... remember a few days ago when we here and I was about to tell you something, but then Melfina interrupted us? Kiyone: Yes. You're going to tell me what that something is now? Keitaro nods. Kiyone: So? What is it? Keitaro: Kiyone... I love you. After a few heart-wrenching seconds of silence, Kiyone speaks up. Kiyone: Keitaro. I don't know what to say. Keitaro: You don't have to say anything. Kiyone: But I feel obligated to do so. Keitaro: Obligated? Your reassuring smile is good enough for me. Kiyone: Keitaro, you don't understand! Keitaro: Kiyone? Is there something I should know? Kiyone: (looking away) Keitaro... I'll be honest. I don't share the same feelings about you. Keitaro's face goes white with shock after hearing Kiyone's subtle rejection. Kiyone: I'm sure you're a sweet guy and all, but the whole 'catching women in compromising positions' trait isn't exactly a turn-on. Keitaro: You know, you could help me get over that. Kiyone: The only way that would happen is if I made sure that I was the only women that you'd catch like that. And I'm not willing to lower myself to do that. Keitaro: But you don't have to! In fact, I don't want you to! Kiyone: I'm sorry, but it wouldn't work out. Besides, I have my heart set on someone else. Keitaro: Right... Tenchi. Kiyone: More or less, yes. Keitaro: Then I guess that asking you out on a date is a bust, huh? Kiyone: To answer the $64,000 question... yes. The two stand in silence for a minute, reflecting on their failed attempt to hook up. All of a sudden, Keitaro starts to laugh uncontrollably. Kiyone: Keitaro? Are you alright? Keitaro: (controlling himself) Yeah. I just knew that the plan wouldn't work. Kiyone: (putting her hands on her hips) What plan? Keitaro: Bit and Roger suggested that I seduce you so that we could get you on our side. But I guess that plan's a bust. Ha! Kiyone: You conniving little... so and so! Keitaro sees the 'evil eye' look from Kiyone and begins to panic, flailing his arms in the air again. Keitaro: Wait, it wasn't my idea! Kiyone: No saving grace this time, Keitaro! Before Keitaro knew it, Kiyone had delivered a powerful roundhouse kick, sending him flying into the air and into the forest. She hears branches snap as Keitaro falls to the forest floor with a thud. Kiyone: (dusting her hands off) Hated to do it, but it had to be done. (thinks out loud) Maybe I should think about doing the same whenever Mihoshi annoys me. I wonder if it's allowed by the Galaxy Police rulebook. As Kiyone thinks of how to use her anger more productively against her partner, she heads back into the mansion. ====== Mondo is sitting on his bed with a notepad in hand. At the top of the page is Jeri's name. And below her name are the names of the other eleven house members, including himself, scrambled all over the page. Grabbing a pen from his desk, Mondo starts to make a diagram. Mondo: She's roommates with Melfina, which means she must be in on it. And Duo's very close to Mel, so he has to be in as well. So if I'm Duo's roommate, shouldn't I know as well? Mondo tears the page out, crumples it up, and throws it in the trash can. He makes another diagram on the new page. Mondo: Bit and Joey have gotten to know Jeri better the past few days, so maybe they're in her alliance. But when I asked Joey this morning, he said he didn't know anything. And Bit refused to talk about it. Could they both be hiding it from me? But wouldn't they tell me something like that? He tears that page out as well and tosses it. On the new page, he creates yet another diagram. Mondo: Maybe she's fooling me so that I won't worry about Jessie backstabbing her. After all, Jeri trusts Jessie more than probably anyone else in the mansion, except for maybe Chi-Chi. Now that I think of it, Chi-Chi has quite the influence. She'll only choose four people who in her mind have performed to the best of their ability, while staying out of trouble. Jeri could very well be one of Chi-Chi's choices. Once again, Mondo tears the page and throws it away. He makes yet another diagram on the new page, circling every person who has a reason to vote for Jeri. Mondo: So that would make six. I might vote for her regardless. Kiyone might as well, given that she's the wild card after keeping out of all of the alliances. But that should be more than enough. Jeri's got this planned out perfectly! Mondo then examines the diagram, tapping the pen against his chin. Mondo: But if the plan's that simple, why won't she tell me? ====== Night Forty Speaking of Jeri, she's now seeking Chi-Chi's help in her alliance. Jeri: I know I haven't been a model young girl exactly, but could you do this just for me? Chi-Chi: I can't guarantee anything. I have no idea who to vote for. Jeri: You get to vote for four people. My alliance only requires you to use up two of those votes. You can use the other two for whomever you want. Chi-Chi: I don't know if I want to vote for you or your friend. I'm sorry Jeri, but I want to keep all of my options open until it's time. Jeri: (bows) I understand. Thanks for your time. Jeri runs off, heading back to her room. Chi-Chi: (CC) I admit, Jeri has a noble cause. But I haven't selected my four yet, and it may take all day tomorrow for me to figure it out. ====== Day Forty-One Seeing as how it's Saturday morning, most of the house has slept in. For the few people that were up, they had begun packing for the trip back home. And among them were Bit and Joey. Bit: So, are you sure about this? Joey: Positive. I'll vote for you man, but I can't vote for Keitaro or Roger. I'm not going to do it. Bit: I just hope we both get in. That's all that matters. Joey: We've been watching each other's backs since the start. We either both get in or not at all. Bit: Got it. They continue to pack in silence for a minute. Joey then speaks up again. Joey: Do you think it's bad to be in so many alliances? Bit: Of course. You honestly can't vote for everyone. Why? Joey: I think Melfina's going around and joining as many alliances as she can. Bit: Intriguing. She hasn't approached Roger, Keitaro, or me about ours. Joey: She's even teamed up with Jessie! Bit: Let her. Jessie's not getting in anyway. We'll make sure of that. Joey: You and the guys will? Bit: Trust me. We've got everything under control. *************** Kiyone and Faye were also beginning to pack their belongings in their room. Kiyone: Faye... how good do you think my chances are of winning the whole thing? Faye: Do I look like an oddsmaker? Ask Melfina. Kiyone: I just want to know your honest opinion. Faye: Okay. I think you'll win it all. Kiyone: (raising an eyebrow) Did you even think about it? Faye: You're earning all of the money! Look at me... I barely have any! Kiyone: It takes more than that to win the game. Faye: Enough people like you to get you into the final four. It'll be up to you to sell yourself. Kiyone: Sell myself? That sounds so degrading. Faye: First of all, that's something I'd say, not you. Kiyone: You've got a point there. That's definitely something... Faye: (interrupting) Kiyone. Kiyone: Sorry. Faye: Second, by selling yourself, I mean presenting yourself to the rest of the mansion as a law-enforcing woman who doesn't take any crap from anyone, yet can still be approachable when off-duty. Kiyone: (gasps in amazement) Wow! I never thought that you'd say something like that! Faye: So I'm 0-for-2 in terms of staying in character today. Maybe I'll give up bounty hunting and become a gardener. Kiyone: Stop kidding around! Faye: Okay, okay! All I'm saying is that this game is yours to lose. Don't lose it! Kiyone: I won't lose it. I'll do everything to win. ====== Around noon, the group is called for their final challenge. Piling into the two vans, they are about to head to an airport near Osaka. Duo: What do you think we're doing this time? Melfina: Something to do with flying. Roger: Thank you, Mrs. Obvious. Chi-Chi: Come on guys! This is the last time that we'll be competing in a challenge against each other. Let's just have some fun, okay? ====== Arriving at the airport, they are guiding to a flying school located by the runway. Tenchi and two men, one dressed in a pilot's uniform and the other in a skydiver's outfit, wait for the group to pile out of their vans. Tenchi: Hello everyone! Well, today's the last day of the competition. Tonight, you will vote for which four of you will get a shot at the grand prize. But first, there's one last challenge that you must complete. Instructor: (stepping forward) We've got a special surprise. Today, you will all be doing a tandem skydive. Skydiver: (pointing up in the sky) From all the way up there! Jeri: (gulps) All the way up there? Keitaro: (also gulps) Do we have to? Instructor: Don't worry. A tandem skydive means that two people are attached to each other. They jump together with one parachute between them. Joey: Only one? Is that safe? Skydiver: We're all professionals here. Our first priority is your safety! Instructor: Enough chit-chat! We've got a lot of work to do, and very little time! ====== The group walks into the building, where the instructor teaches them the proper way to skydive, how to use a parachute, and other related topics. Instructor: (pointing to a blackboard) There are two parachute cords that you can pull. This one here is the primary one, and should be pulled first. Normally, the chute should then open. But in case it doesn't, pull the secondary cord to activate the emergency chute. Faye raises her hand. The instructor points to her. Instructor: Yes? Faye: Don't people die from doing this? Instructor: They can. But as long as you make the proper preparations, you'll be fine. Everyone then hears Joey and Jessie, both conveniently sitting next to each other, snoring with their heads down on their desks. The instructor takes a yardstick and whacks on Joey's desk, just missing his head. The sound of the impact, naturally, jars both of them from their sleep. Joey: Wha? Jessie: What's the big idea? Instructor: Rule one! You can't survive a skydive if you know how to work a parachute. So stop sleeping and pay attention! Joey and Jessie: (meekly) Sorry. ====== [Prize Challenge 6: One Final Leap] [Team Assignments: - Team A: Bit, Jeri, Roger, Melfina - Team B: Chi-Chi, Duo, Faye, Mondo - Team C: Keitaro, Jessie, Joey, Kiyone] After teams were assigned and the lessons are over, the group is split in half. Six of them join the pilot and the skydiving teacher in the plane, while Tenchi and the other six head for a grassy field. Marked in the grassy field is a giant bullseye. There are different point values depending on what ring the skydivers land in. Mondo: Let me get this straight. They have to jump from the plane and guide themselves to this target? Tenchi: That's the gist of it. And the closer you are to the bullseye in the center, the more points you'll earn for your team. The team with the highest combined score wins. Melfina: What are we competing for this time? Tenchi: That's a secret. You'll all find out at the end of the challenge. ====== [Plane 1: Bit, Chi-Chi, Keitaro, Jeri, Duo, and Jessie] The plane takes off from the runway and slowly rises to the proper altitude. Inside, the six contestants and their tandam skydiving partners, each chosen so that they are almost the same size as their partners, prepare to jump as the skydiving teacher opens the side door. They're all jump in skydiving outfits as well. Skydiver: (yelling over the wind) The wind's picked up a little, so I'd advise you to be careful. Who wants to jump first? Chi-Chi immediately gets up, anxious to jump. Duo gets up right after her. They both prepare for their jumps as they wait for their attachments to their partners are complete. Keitaro and Jeri both glance at each other, rather nervous about leaping out of a plane. Keitaro: You're scared too, aren't you? Jeri: (trying to hide it) Me? Of course not. Bit: It's okay to admit you're scared. It's not easy jumping out of a plane. ====== [Challenge Fast Forward] Chi-Chi jumps out of the plane first, spreading her arms like an eagle and obviously enjoying the wind flowing through her hair. Her jumping partner, on the other hand, is motionless as the two fly through the air. Not too long after that, Duo and his partner leap out of the plane. Duo also enjoys the rush of freefalling through the air. Bit is the next to go. He jumps out without any problems. That just leaves Keitaro, Jeri, and Jessie in the plane with their partners. Jessie preps to jump as Keitaro and Jeri try to decide who will jump next. After a lot of convincing from the skydiving teacher, Jeri decides to go before Keitaro so that he can look out for her. Jessie jumps, followed by Jeri and Keitaro after that. Chi-Chi is the first to become visible to Tenchi and the others on the ground. Using all of her strength, she guides the parachute in towards the target. Her feet come down just outside the center bullseye, scoring ten points. Duo is next to land, guiding himself in. He undershoots the target though, and barely lands in the outermost ring, earning a single point for his team. Bit may have enjoyed the ride, but doing so, he flies way off course. As a result, when those on the ground first see him, he's already over the target, but several hundred feet above. He tries to turn around, but he's unsuccessful as he comes down way outside the target. Jessie and Keitaro are heading for the target at the same time, even though Jessie had jumped nearly two minutes before he had. Jessie is closer though, so she makes her approach first. She guides herself and her partner into the middle ring of the five that made up the target, scoring five points. Keitaro, her teammate, comes down right after her. Jessie and her partner get out of the way as Keitaro and his partner land in the same ring, but off to the right and just short, but still earning another five points. Jeri, who had opened her parachute really early, took a few extra minutes before she and her jumping partner came into view. With some guidance from her partner, she slowly guides them into a safe landing. But outside the target. [End Challenge Fast Forward] [Results after Jump 1: Team A 0, Team B 11, Team C 10] ====== Jessie is thrilled as her partner unlatches them from the parachute. Jessie: For once, it was fun to blast off! As Jeri gets unlatched, she wipes the sweat off of her forehead. Jeri: I'm just glad to be on solid ground again. Tenchi: Alright, after one jump, Team B is in the lead with 11 points. Team C is right behind them with 10. Team A has yet to get on the board. But it's still anyone's game. The six remaining jumpers examine the situation, trying to figure out what they have to do. *************** [Plane 2: Roger, Faye, Joey, Melfina, Mondo, and Kiyone] The second plane takes off from the ground and heads up into the air. The six remaining jumpers, with their tandem partners, are preparing for their jumps. Faye: I don't know about this. What if the parachute doesn't open? Roger: What's the matter? Too scared to jump? Faye: Nonsense! I'll jump! Skydiver: (opening the door) Okay, who's first? Joey: (jumping up) I'll go first! This ought to be a cinch! Joey and his partner start hooking themselves together and then to their parachute. After a few minutes, they are standing by the door, ready to jump. Joey: Let's go! Skydiver: We're counting down from three! Three! Two! One! Go! Joey and his jumping partner leap out into the wild blue yonder, both yelling their lungs out. Off to the side, Kiyone is preparing for her jump. Kiyone: (with her eyes closed) I'm not afraid. I'm not afraid. Kiyone's Partner: Relax! Don't worry about falling! Just worry about having fun on the way down! Kiyone nods as the attachments are locked and she and her partner step up to the door. After a countdown, they jump as well. ====== [Challenge Fast Forward] After being pushed by Roger, Faye jumps next. Roger goes immediately after her. Melfina and Mondo are getting hooked up for their jumps. Melfina is ready first, so she goes first. Mondo is the last to jump out. [End Challenge Fast Forward] ====== Bit: Get the lead out! Bit is shouting in the air as he spots Roger coming down. Jeri is next to him, cheering her teammates on. Jeri: Roger! Mel! You can do it! Meanwhile, Joey and his partner are coming down, as Joey tries to guide them to the target. Keitaro: You've got it, Joey! Joey and his parachuting partner land almost dead center in the target. Keitaro and Jessie are ecstatic as they run over to tackle him with glee. Keitaro: You nailed it! Jessie: You got us 25 points! Unbelievable! Joey: (scratching the back of his head) It was nothing, guys. Faye is approaching the target now, with Kiyone and Roger both in plain view, not too far away. Joey and his partner are pulled away from the target area before unlatching them. Duo and Chi-Chi try to guide Faye in, who is having trouble turning the chute in the direction she wants. Duo: (moving his arms to his right) Right! Turn right! Faye: (yelling) I'm trying! Faye comes down in the second outermost ring... worth 3 points. She quickly is pulled out of the way as Kiyone makes her landing in the third ring, earning her team another five points. Keitaro: Good work, Kiyone! Kiyone: (to her partner) You were right! That was fun! Roger lands right after Kiyone, barely leaving her enough time to escape. He comes down on the other side of the target, but in the same ring as Kiyone. He earns five points... the first for his team in the challenge. Bit helps Roger and his partner get unlatched as Jeri cheers Melfina on, who is now visible and is approaching the target. Jeri: Aim for the bullseye, Mel! Melfina tries to direct herself in, but the wind is really affecting her parachute. She makes a miracluous save, landing on the edge of the second innermost ring, earning ten more points for her team. Melfina: (as Jeri and Bit run towards her) I tried, guys. The wind was blowing me away. Bit: We know. We couldn't ask for anything more. Only Mondo is still in the air, and he's fighting the wind as well as he guides his chute in. He also seems to be receiving guidance from his tandem partner on how to land. Chi-Chi: Come on, Mondo! Land in the target! Mondo isn't as strong as Melfina though, and so he is finding it hard to keep straight. He manages to land in the target, but farther out than Melfina had been. He is in the front part of the target, in the outermost ring. He adds one point to his team's score. [Final Results: Team A 15, Team B 15, Team C 40] ====== Tenchi: Well, it's time to announce the final results. There was a tie for second place, as Team A comes back to share runner-up honors with Team B. Both teams scored a total of 15 points. But thanks to Joey's superb landing, Team C is the winner, hands down, with 40 points! Congratulations, guys! Keitaro, Jessie, Joey, and Kiyone are celebrating happily. Tenchi hands each of them a green index card. Tenchi: You guys know the procedure. And when we do the prize drawings tomorrow afternoon, two of you will this sixth and final prize. Joey: Say... what did we win? Tenchi: You'll find out tomorrow. Keitaro: Why can't we find out now? Kiyone: Yeah, Tenchi! We risked our lives jumping out of that plane! Tenchi: But you're safe now, aren't you? Anyway, tomorrow's not that long. Besides, we've got other matters to attend to. After dinner tonight back at the mansion, you will be voting for which four of you gets the shot at the grand prize of up to one million dollars. You may head back to the mansion, and I'll see the twelve of you tonight. The twelve wave goodbye to Tenchi and the entire skydiving crew as they pile into the vans and head back to Okayama. ====== Night Forty-One Mondo and Faye are talking about their plan to discover Jeri's plan. Faye: So, you couldn't find out anything? Mondo: She won't tell me. And everyone I asked either doesn't know about it or knows about it, but refuses to tell me. Faye: I guess we have to hope that it doesn't work out. Mondo: I hope it does. I think Jeri deserves a shot at the million. Faye: Her? I think I deserve it more than she does. Mondo: (ignoring Faye) Let's see if her plan actually works. Faye: (frustrated) Why do people always want to ignore me? ====== Kiyone is in Keitaro's bedroom. Although most of the drawers were already empty and suitcases full of luggage were lying all over the room, she still managed to spot something on Keitaro's desk that he hadn't packed yet. She walks over and starts to flip through it. As if you haven't guessed, it's Keitaro's sketchbook. Just as she gets to the part where he drew all the pictures of the girls in the mansion (from a few days ago), Keitaro enters the room. Keitaro: Kiyone! Kiyone: (turns around and gasps) Keitaro! Keitaro walks over and takes the sketchbook from Kiyone. Kiyone: I'm sorry! I didn't mean to... Keitaro: I didn't think you'd do something like this! That's my private sketchbook. Kiyone: I figured that. Some of those drawings in there are borderline PG-13. Keitaro: It's my hobby, okay? Kiyone: No wonder you're still single. If you had a girlfriend and she ever found out about this, she'd flip! Keitaro: I have no regrets about this. It's my hobby and no one's going to convince me to change. Kiyone: You're free to do whatever you want. I'm not going to stop you. Kiyone motions to walk out, but Keitaro stops her. Keitaro: Promise you won't tell anyone about the sketchbook. Kiyone: Of course. (winks) It'll be our little secret. Keitaro, believing that the wink was Kiyone's way of flirting with him, becomes as light as a feather. Kiyone snaps Keitaro out of his trance by grabbing him by the arm and dragging him out of the room. As she does, Keitaro drops the sketchbook onto the floor. Kiyone: Alright Romeo, let's get a move on. We've got business to take care of. ====== Tenchi is standing behind a podium that has been set up beside the TV in the living room. Three rows of chairs are positioned in the room and are quickly filled by the twelve Roomies. Tenchi: Good evening, everyone! As of right now, the game has officially ended. There are no more chances to earn any money or become eligible for any prizes. Tonight, the twelve of you vote for which four will get the shot at the grand prize. Everyone shoots odd glances at each other as they consider their picks. Tenchi pulls out a laptop and a giant monitor. He hooks them up to the nearest outlet, with the monitor on a table and the laptop on the podium. Tenchi: You've come a long way these past six weeks. You've learned to live with each other, become friends, work your way through disagreements, and in some cases, you've found love. Tonight, everything you've done since this game began 41 days ago will be fair game. There are a couple of angry glares at Jessie, but she ignores them. Tenchi: Mistakes will not be taken lightly. Achievements will be treated with the highest of regard. But only four of you will get a shot at your personal cash jackpots. And only one will walk out of this mansion tomorrow with that money in hand. Duo and Melfina smile as they grasp each other's hands. Tenchi holds up a small voting form, listing the 12 Roomies down the page, in alphabetical order. Tenchi: Here's how the voting process will work tonight. One at a time, you will go to the confessional room, where you'll fill out one of these. Check off four names on the ballot, speak your peace about why you made those choices to the camera, and then come back here. After everyone has voted, I'll count the votes and then, one at a time, I'll reveal the four finalists. Okay? Jeri is seen nodding in agreement before glancing at Joey to her left. Mondo, sitting next to her, watches her carefully. Tenchi: Mondo, since you are the closest to the door, we'll start with you. Okay? Mondo gets up from his seat as he sees Jeri turn to watch him leave. He heads to the confessional room to vote. Mondo: (CC) I think everyone knows this is coming. Jeri, I love you so much, and I just hope whatever you're planning works out for the best. I'll check your name here because I think you deserve it. As for Jessie... let's just hope you aren't so lucky! Back outside to the living room, where Jessie is quietly snickering to herself. Jessie: (CC) This is it! I can see it now! I'll be onstage with the finalists, and then I'll take this game hands down! *************** As Mondo returns to the living room, Jeri gets up and heads out to vote. She enters the confessional room and without hesitation, fills the ballot out. Jeri: (CC) You may not know about my plan, but regardless I think I've gained enough support to get both you and me into the finals! Good luck! Next up in the voting booth is Bit. He fills out the ballot and sounds off. Bit: (CC) I still don't know how we came upon the idea to vote for you, but Roger thinks you've got a pretty good shot. So, here's one for you, Duo! Joey follows his roommate in and tells the camera one of his choices. Joey: (CC) A lot of people have ignored you, but I haven't! You've done pretty well, Mondo, and I think that's enough to earn you a shot in the finals. Good luck, buddy! On to the second row, where Melfina starts to fill out her ballot. Melfina: (CC) Let's see... I know I'm forgetting to vote for someone here. But I have four names checked, so I must have gotten them all. Melfina smiles as she puts her ballot into the voting box. She meets Duo on the way back, who heads straight into the confessional room. Duo: (CC) Nobody's done better in this game than you, Kiyone! And so, one of my four votes goes to you. He deposits the ballot and returns to the living room. Chi-Chi heads off to vote. Chi-Chi: (CC) Although I still don't approve of your relationship with Duo, you've been such a great help around the mansion. And for that, I gladfully vote for you, Melfina! After finishing, Chi-Chi heads back and points to Jessie. She heads back to submit her vote. Jessie: (CC) Whatever your plan is twerpette, it better involve me getting in with you as well! Otherwise, you'll be sorry! Eight down, four to go. Roger goes to the confessional room next. Roger: (CC) As per the alliance, two of my votes go to Bit and Keitaro. And as for Faye... I hope no one votes for you, because you never did anything in the mansion and you never were a factor in the challenges. Consider this my farewell to you. You won't be walking out of here with anything! Roger's roommate, Keitaro, is next. He actually takes his time to vote before finally dropping his ballot into the voting box. Keitaro: (CC) The last vote I had to make was my toughest. I only voted for one girl, but I couldn't decide who was best suited to try for the prize money. I'm voting for one, hoping the other one I was considering also makes it in. Keitaro leaves, allowing Kiyone her chance to vote. Kiyone: (CC) You never were on a lot of people's good side, but as your roommate, I'm doing this out of respect for you. If you get a chance to be in another reality show, hopefully you'll learn from this experience and apply it there. Here's to being good friends after all is said and done! Faye is the last to vote, as she heads to the confessional room. She fills out her ballot and holds it up for the camera to see. Faye: (CC) I've got a few unconventional choices in here, but hopefully those votes will allow two certain individuals to keep out of the final four. Roger and Jessie, don't let the door hit you on the way out! Faye doesn't even fail to hide an evil smirk as she deposits the ballot and heads back to the living room. Once she's back there and she takes a seat, Tenchi gets ready to leave. Tenchi: I'll go count the votes. Tenchi leaves and heads for the confessional room. ====== Tense minutes pass by as the Roomies await the results. Mondo and Jeri are chatting with each other. Roger had stepped out to get a drink of water. And Faye and Kiyone were comparing notes, trying to figure out if they made the right voting choices. Just as Roger returns from the kitchen, Tenchi enters the room. Everyone takes a seat as Tenchi goes to the podium, boots up the laptop, and turns on the monitor. After a few minutes, he looks up at the group. Tenchi: The votes have been tabulated. It's time to announce who will make up the final four. He points to the monitor, which is now showing a blue screen. Suddenly, lined up on the left side of the screen and going down, are the names of the Roomies, in the order that they went to the voting booth. Tenchi: I will go down the list in the order of how you voted. For every vote you received from one of your peers, a small man will appear. If you are in the top four, all of the men by your name will glow green. If those men are still glowing green when I reach the end of the list, you are one of the four finalists who will be begging the rest of you for the grand prize tomorrow. Tenchi starts typing away at his laptop, putting Mondo's name in. Tenchi: Mondo, we'll start with you. Mondo looks on as the figures starting popping up next to his name. They are all glowing green, and they number a total of three. Tenchi: Mondo, three votes. Jeri, on to you next. Mondo nods before looking at Jeri, who subconsciously grabs both of Mondo's hands and begins to squeeze them nervously. Five green glowing men appear by her name. Tenchi: Jeri, five votes. Jeri cracks a smile, but it hasn't calmed her nerves down. Tenchi: Bit? As Tenchi types Bit's name in, he looks on with interest. Three green men appear next to his name. Tenchi: Bit, three votes. Bit doesn't seem too happy about it, but he hides his feelings anyway. Joey looks on tentatively as Tenchi glances his way. Jeri and Mondo also turn their attention to Joey, but for entirely different reasons. Tenchi: Joey, you're up next. After waiting a few seconds, Joey jumps out of his seat and whoops and hollers when six green men appear next to his name. Joey: Yeah! That's what I'm talking about! He high fives Joey, who's glad that his roommate has a decent shot at the prize now. Jeri also flashes a smile in Joey's direction, which he notices but can't make heads or tails out of. Tenchi: Let's not jump to conclusions, Joey. We've still got eight people left. Joey has six votes. Now, we move to Melfina. Melfina watches the monitor closely. She worries about her chances... but that's shortlived as nine green men appear next to her name. Duo: Wow, Melfina! Look at that! Melfina: (happily) I'm so glad my strategy paid off. Tenchi: Melfina with nine votes. Most so far. Let's see if Duo did as well. Melfina holds off her celebration to see if Duo got in with her. The two hold hands as the number comes up. Six green men pop up, as the green glow from Mondo's and Bit's men disappears. Tenchi: Duo, six votes. Duo and Melfina share a hug. Chi-Chi would probably take this moment to tone the romantic stuff down, but she was focused on seeing how well she did. Tenchi: Chi-Chi, let's see how you did. Chi-Chi sits quietly, waiting for the result. Sadly, only three men appear next to her name. Tenchi: Three votes for Chi-Chi, not enough to compete for the money. It's now Jessie's turn. Jessie: (happily) I can't wait to spend all of that money! Jessie feels confident about her chances, but is quickly brought back down to Earth when only two men, the least so far, appear on the screen. Jessie: (outraged) Hey! That's it? I was expecting more than that! Tenchi: I'm sorry Jessie, but only two people voted for you. Jessie: I demand a recount! Chi-Chi: (pulling Jessie back into her seat) Cool down! Take defeat like the rest of us, okay? Jessie: My plan was flawless! I should be among the top four! Tenchi: I can't change the facts, Jessie. Only two people checked your name on the ballot. Now, we need to move on. Roger, you're up next. With four left to go, Jeri, Joey, Melfina, and Duo are the ones currently in. Roger awaits his fate... and is treated to two men as well. Tenchi: Roger, two votes. Roger was outraged, but he manages to keep his temper in check. Tenchi: Keitaro, you're up! Keitaro: (starts praying) Please make me one of the finalists! I'll do anything! Kiyone: (elbowing Keitaro in the shoulder) When you pray like that, no one else is supposed to hear you. Keitaro: Oh. (scratching the back of his head sheepishly) Sorry. Keitaro glances at the screen just to see... two men next to his name. Tenchi: And another person with two votes! Sorry Keitaro, it's not your day. Keitaro, disappointed, bows his head in shame. Kiyone pats him on the back, trying to keep his spirits up. Tenchi: Two left. Kiyone, it's your turn. Kiyone watches the screen carefully. So does everyone else. Seconds later, the men start appearing next to her name. Kiyone: (counting out loud) One, two, three, four, five... Tenchi: Six for Kiyone. Enough to put her in that three-way tie for second! There's a mild round of applause for Kiyone as her men glow green. Of course, because she's now among the top four, someone has to fall out. And that happens to be Jeri, who's just staring at the screen with disbelief. Mondo: (waving his hand in front of her face) Jeri? You okay? Jeri: (slowly regaining consciousness) Y-yeah. I'm fine. Tenchi: Faye, you are the last one. Six votes gets you into a four-way tie with Duo, Joey, and Kiyone. Seven or more gets you into the finals with Melfina, forcing Duo, Joey, and Kiyone to fight for the other two spots. Anything less than six, and Duo, Joey, and Kiyone all join Melfina tomorrow. Tenchi types Faye's name in. She and Kiyone look on, wondering if they'll be together in the finals. Suddenly, a man pops up next to Faye's name. One man. Tenchi: Well Faye, there was only one vote for you. Which means that the finalists are Joey, Melfina, Duo, and Kiyone. Congratulations! Faye: How can that be? (to Kiyone) You're the only person who voted for me? Kiyone shrugs her shoulders, not knowing what to think. Roger walks over towards her with a smug look on his face. Roger: The only consolation I have in this game is that I got twice as many votes as you did, Faye. Faye: (gritting her teeth) Don't rub it in, Roger. Tenchi: The field has been set. After lunch tomorrow, we'll have the prize drawings and then the final vote, which will determine who will walk away with the cash prize of a million dollars. I'll see you all tomorrow. As Tenchi walks out the door, the group breaks up to think about the results of the vote. ====== Right away, Jessie pulls both Jeri and Mondo aside, still outraged over the final results. Jessie: Alright you two, spill it! Which one of you didn't vote for me? Mondo: I did. Jeri: Yeah. Me too. Jessie: (pointing to Jeri) You're lying! I can see it in your face! You think you're so smart, forming an alliance against me. Jeri: My alliance was never against you, Jessie. No one needs an alliance to keep you from getting in. Jessie: Why you little twerp! I could've guaranteed you a free seat in the finals! But you had to go off on your own, and now look at us! We're all on the outside! It's all your fault! Mondo: Don't go and accuse Jeri for your failed plan! Jeri: (grabbing Mondo's arm) It's okay. Jessie has a right to be mad. Just like I have a right to be disappointed. Mondo: (turning towards her) I can't believe your plan didn't work. Jeri: Well, at least the part that would've gotten me in. The other half worked like a charm, though. Mondo: Other... half? Jessie: What are you talking about? But Jeri was no longer standing beside Mondo. She had wandered off... over to Joey, who was just leaving the living room to head up to her room. Jeri: Congratulations on making the final four, Joey! Joey: Well, thanks Jeri. I'm surprised your so humble about it. I mean, I saw that look on your face when Kiyone took your spot. Jeri: (sadly) I'm disappointed that it was meant to be. (happily) But at least you got in! Joey: You mean you were hoping I would make the cut? Jeri: Hoping? I wanted you to make it! Jessie: (walking over) You mean you made an alliance with HIM? Joey: (smirks) Come to beg? It's too late for that, Jessie. Jessie: I'm not here to beg! Mondo: I would've never guessed it! You and Joey, working together! Joey: Huh? Someone mind filling me in? Jeri: (laughs) Joey had no idea at all. I teamed up with a few of the other members of the house, who agreed to vote for both me and Joey to get in. Joey: But I never knew about the alliance. Why me? Mondo: (crossing his arms over his chest) Yes. Please tell us why. Jeri: Well, while I was thinking about who to vote for, I thought about Joey's reason for being here. To fund his sister's operation. It's a noble cause, and I think if anyone deserves a chance to win, it's him. Joey: Jeri? You did that all for me? Jeri: Yep. Mondo: And you wouldn't do that for me? Jeri: If the circumstances were different, it would have been you and me. But I had to go with my heart. It's too bad about what happened in Smallville though, because that cost me my chance. I didn't think it would've been that close on votes. Mondo walks over and gives Jeri a reassuring hug. Mondo: You're still a winner in my eyes, Jeri. Jeri: Thanks, Mondo! Jessie: (throwing her hands up in frustration) I knew I couldn't trust any of you! Joey: (shouting after her) Maybe next time you'll be a little nicer to people! *************** Day Forty Two Since the final four was announced, the finalists have been keeping away from each other. That would give each of them the opportunity to campaign for votes and to avoid being influenced by each other. But even two of the finalists couldn't keep away the entire time. Duo and Melfina are eating breakfast at the same time. Mondo and Jeri are also there, but they seem to be quiet this morning. Duo: I never thought we'd both be in this together. Melfina: I know. It's all surreal. Duo: Only one of us can win the game. You promise to accept the result, no matter what happens? Melfina: Of course! And you? Duo: Naturally. Melfina: (raising her glass of orange juice) To us. Duo: (doing likewise) To us. The two toast to their delight, as they can't wait for the end of the game. Jeri and Mondo just look on as they contemplate who they'll vote for. Mondo: (CC) Duo and Melfina are two great people, don't get me wrong! But don't they seem a bit too happy with the final vote looming? ====== Faye and Kiyone are up on the balcony. Faye is smoking as usual, while Kiyone is pacing back and forth nervously. Faye: You keep doing that and you'll wear a rut into the balcony. Kiyone: (stopping) But I can't help it! I'm so nervous! Faye: You're surprised that you actually got in without the help of any alliances, and now you don't know what to do, huh? Kiyone: I'm more worried about what will happen if I do win. Faye: Why? Faye then remembers Kiyone's relationship with Tenchi. Faye: I see. Kiyone: What do I do? Keitaro walks on to the balcony. Keitaro: Tenchi's here. It's time. Faye: We'll be there in a minute. Keitaro walks off, leaving Kiyone and Faye alone again. Faye: You haven't tried to influence anyone to vote for you today, have you? Kiyone: (shaking her head) No. Not at all. Faye: Good. Then you have nothing to worry about. Faye walks past Kiyone and into the mansion. Kiyone, wondering what Faye meant by that statement, follows her in. ====== The group is gathered in the living room once again. But this time, four of the chairs are set off to the side, separate from the others. And on the podium is the ballot box. The laptop and monitor are set up again. The monitor is displaying a message that reads 'Have colored prize cards ready.' Tenchi enters the room, as the finalists take their seats off to the side. Everyone else sits in the eight chairs positioned in front of the podium. Tenchi: Good afternoon. This is the day you've been waiting for. We're all going to find out together if any of you walk out of this house with a prize. And for our finalists, one of you will walk away with the grand prize. All eyes are on the foursome of, from left to right, Joey, Melfina, Duo, and Kiyone. Tenchi: But first things first! We've got some prizes to give away. Does everyone have their index cards with them? Everyone rushes to pull theirs out, except for Bit and Jeri, who didn't have any to begin with. Tenchi goes around and has the group deposit all of their cards in the box. He then shakes the box as he heads back to the podium. Reaching the podium, he puts the box down on it before starting to type away on the laptop. Tenchi: We'll start with the CD Walkman, valued at $130. Three people qualified for that after completing our magic challenge. He reaches in and pulls out an orange card. Tenchi: And the winner is Mondo. Mondo smiles as he gets a congratulatory hug from Jeri. Jeri: At least you'll walk out of here with something. Tenchi sticks his hand in the ballot box again. This time, he pulls out three white cards. Tenchi: Next is the Nike gift certificate, worth $400. Three people get it because seven of you completed the snow tubing challenges. And those three will be... Faye, Kiyone, and Duo. Faye, ecstatic that she actually will walk away with something, rejoices happily. But then, the realization hits her. Faye: Say... I'm not aware of a company like that! Duo: Me neither, now that I think of it. Kiyone: Then you two better do some shopping before you go home! The group laughs as Tenchi reaches in and takes out two gray cards. Tenchi: Next up is the Ericcson T68 cell phone, which six of you are eligible for because of the results of the haystack relay. Only two will get one though, and those two are... Joey and Melfina. Joey laughs with glee as Melfina smiles with joy. Tenchi then reaches in for a black card. Tenchi: Our fourth prize is the Playstation 2 package. Only two people earned the right to be in the drawing for that after they completed the fugitive escape challenge. One of those two will get that... and it will be Chi-Chi! Chi-Chi: The boys would really love that. Tenchi: Two to go. Next is the 36" flat-screen TV, which could be won by any member of the winning team from the basketball challenge. He takes a blue card out of the ballot box. Tenchi: And guess what... Chi-Chi's got the TV to go with the Playstation 2 package! Chi-Chi has a big grin on her face, knowing that the boys will be happy about this. Meanwhile, Tenchi reaches into the ballot box one last time and pulls out two green cards. Tenchi: The last prize will go to two of the four people who became eligible after being on the winning team in yesterday's skydiving challenge. And those two will be... Joey and Kiyone. Joey: That's great! Uh... what did we win? Kiyone: Yes, what did we win Tenchi? Tenchi types away at his keyboard. In an instant, a picture of an SUV appears on the monitor, to the delight of Joey and Kiyone. Tenchi: Each of you will get a four-wheel drive, 2002 Honda Passport LX. Joey and Kiyone jump out of their seats and start dancing around happily. Joey: That's awesome! Kiyone: What a great prize! Roger: (CC) I can't believe what I'm seeing. Those two get an SUV, Faye gets at least a gift certificate. But I don't have anything at all! ====== Tenchi: There's only one prize left to give away, and that's the cash grand prize. But which one of you four will it be? He walks over to the four finalists and put his hands on Kiyone's shoulders. Tenchi: Kiyone has always been in the right place at the right time to win or be in contention to win in practically every challenge. But, her strategy of keeping out of alliances could bite her, as she is without any 'free' votes. He makes his way over to Duo. Tenchi: Out of these four, Duo has probably been under the radar for most of the game. But since Mondo moved into his room, Duo has gotten the short end of the stick in the prize and physical challenges. Next up is Melfina. Tenchi: Melfina has been the most helpful around the mansion, doing chores more than everyone except maybe Chi-Chi. But will all of the people she formed alliances with the past few days still think she is the worthy of winning? And last but not last is Joey. Tenchi: Joey has a good reason for wanting the money... funding his sister's operation. But Joey hasn't been a model housemate, especially when we look back at what happened when he was captain of the first physical challenge. Tenchi heads back to the podium. Tenchi: You voted these four in because you believed that all of them deserved to win the money. But we all know that only one of them will win it. Today, you have to look back at everything they've done. All of the good things. All of the bad things. You'll have to use all of that to decide which one of these four should win their money. Tenchi pulls out four envelopes, each with the name of one of the finalists on it. Tenchi: In these envelopes is a card that tells how much money each of the finalists walk out of here with if they are declared the winners. I was pleasantly surprised at how much these four earned in this game. Without looking inside, I can tell you that each of the four finalists has the possibility of walking out with at least half a million dollars. Joey, Duo, and Kiyone are all shocked about the figure that they nearly jump out of their seats in excitement. Tenchi: To figure out which one of these four gets all of that money, the eight of you must now vote. The finalists do not get to vote. They'll just have to sit here for the next 15 minutes to await the result. The final reckoning is upon us. Chi-Chi, please take the voting box back to the confessional room and fill out the ballot in there. Chi-Chi walks up to the podium, takes the voting box, and heads back to the confessional room. She puts the box down on the table, fills out the ballot, and speaks a few words into the camera. Chi-Chi: (CC) After all four of the people I chose yesterday got in to the final today, I had to make another tough decision regarding who would get the money. Only now have I decided upon the person that I will vote for. She holds up the ballot, which clearly has Duo's name checked. A quick look back in the living room shows Duo sitting in his chair with his head resting on his hands and his elbows resting on his kneecaps. Chi-Chi: (CC) I think you have the potential to be more than just a parts salvager. Hopefully, winning this money will be the first step towards something new for you. Best of luck, and I wish you the best, no matter what happens. She folds up the ballot, drops it in the box and leaves. Jeri is the next to vote. She fills it out, deposits the ballot, gives the camera a thumbs up, and then leaves. Jessie is the next person to enter the room. The camera watches as she fills her ballot out. Jessie: (CC) This is payback for not joining my alliance! I'm going to vote for the one person who truly backed me up yesterday. That twerp will get what's coming to him! Don't ever double-cross me, Joey Wheeler! As she heads out, we look back in the living room, where Joey shudders with fright. He's unsure of why he did that until Jessie returns... figuring out that she didn't vote for him, without a doubt. Mondo goes next, filling out his ballot and then putting it in the box. Keitaro follows suit, entering the room, voting, dropping, and departing. Faye enters the room, fills out the ballot, and shows it to the camera. Faye: (CC) Despite how vastly different our professions are, you never held that against me. Kiyone, you were by far the best person in this game. If someone has to win, it better be you. Or somebody's head is gonna roll. She puts the ballot in and leaves. Roger is the next to go. Upon entering the room, he thinks for a second before voting and depositing his ballot. Bit is the last to vote. He enters and makes his vote. He holds up his ballot, but the camera doesn't show who his vote is for. Bit: (CC) I think it's going to take three of the eight votes to win this final vote. It's going to be that close. But I don't agree about the logistics of our alliance's plan. I hope Keitaro and Roger don't kill me for going against our plan, but the person I'm voting for is probably the one person that I have gotten along with since the beginning. This is for you, buddy! Go get 'em! Bit puts his vote in and leaves. As soon as he returns, Tenchi heads for the confessional room to tally the votes. ====== The tension is high in the living room as Tenchi returns with the ballot box in hand once again. He places it on the podium and scans the room once before saying anything. Tenchi: Eight votes to be split among these four finalists. I will tell you that the vote, as expected, was very, very close. But we do have a winner. Now, to reveal the votes. Good luck to the finalists. Duo and Melfina grab each other's hands. Joey mumbles to himself nervously. And Kiyone was practically emotionless. Tenchi opens the ballot box and starts pulling out votes one by one. Tenchi: First vote... Joey. Joey cracks a small smile as the nervousness leaves him almost immediately. Tenchi: (holding vote #2) Duo. Duo nods, but remains motionless otherwise. Tenchi: (with vote #3) Kiyone. Kiyone doesn't react at all, although Faye seems to be rather happy. Tenchi: (with #4 in hand) Duo. That's two for Duo, one each for Kiyone and Joey, and none so far for Melfina. Duo smiles as he squeezes Melfina's hand a little more. Tenchi: (pulling out #5) A second vote for Joey. Joey refrains from pumping his fist, though in his mind he's pretending that he's doing so. Tenchi: (revealing vote #6) Melfina. Welcome to the finals. Melfina lets a small sigh of relief for finally getting a vote as Duo gives her a reassuring pat on the back. The group leans on the edge of their seats as the all-important seventh vote is pulled out and revealed. Tenchi: Seventh vote... is for Kiyone. There is a lot of wild reaction from almost everyone now that Kiyone is back in the race. After allowing everyone to calm down, Tenchi pulls out the eighth and deciding vote. Tenchi: As I said at the beginning, we did have a winner. And in my hand is the name of the winner of the grand prize. Duo and Melfina are squeezing each other's hands very hard, the sweat rolling off of Kiyone's head is plainly visible, and Joey is doing everything in his power to keep himself from chewing on his fingernails. Tenchi: And the winner of Roomies 2: Country Living is... After a brief silence, which puts the whole room on edge, Tenchi slowly turns the piece of paper around so that the name can now be seen. Tenchi: Duo Maxwell. Instantly Duo jumps out of his seat and starts hollering with excitement. Melfina immediately puts a stop to that by wrapping her arms around Duo's neck and kissing him on the lips. As soon as they let go, both Joey and Kiyone give him hugs, showing that they had no hard feelings about losing. Tenchi then walks over and high fives Duo before they are surrounded by the rest of the group. They all offer their own congratulatory handshakes, hugs, and remarks. Even Jessie reluctantly steps in and shakes Duo's hand before walking out. Duo doesn't let it get to him as the celebration continues among his newfound friends... who were now his family. Tenchi quiets the crowd down and separates them to hand Duo his envelope. Tenchi: Let's not forget what you'll be taking home other than that Nike gift certificate from earlier. Duo rips open the envelope and pulls out a card that reads '$655,000.' He starts jumping up and down happily again. But this time, Melfina just smiles, allowing him to celebrate and go wild as much as he wants. End Episode Eighteen (and Roomies 2: Country Living) Additional Author's Notes: Because I'm late, the only thing I'll comment on is the challenge. You know it had to be coming soon or later. Having people skydive out of a plane is one of those challenges that always seems to be effective, no matter what reality show you see it in. The emotions always cover the whole spectrum: from the adrenaline junkies to the fearful-of-heights people. This particular version is a modification off the Real World/Road Rules Challenge... either the first or second edition, I don't remember which one. Although I do not remember who was in that edition, I do know that they had to jump solo from a plane and guide themselves into a target. A couple of people did land in the center (which in that game was worth 100 points). One person flew over a nearby fence, missing the target by a mile (okay, maybe not that far away, but he definitely was nowhere near the target). And one person injured themselves on the landing. An ambulance had to be called to check on him/her (I don't remember if it was a male or a female), but at least that was the last event of the competition. Of course in this edition, we couldn't let the group do solo jumps since a majority of the cast is under 18 (especially freaky about Jeri and Mondo), so a tandem jump was absolutely necessary for all safety precautions. This brings us to the end of Roomies 2: Country Living. But you haven't heard the last of these twelve yet! This Tuesday on the Reunion Special: - Watch the group depart from Okayama as they did at the end back in March. - We talk with the Final Four and how they managed to get there. - How far did the relationships, whether for business or pleasure, go? - The group answers questions from the audience. - A panel of friends grades our Roomies on their performance. - The presentation of all of the prizes. - And a whole lot more... Live from Tokyo University, it's "Roomies 2: Country Living - The Reunion!" Hosted by Cassie Banks (original character from my "Adventures Series" fic)! There's still time to submit your questions! Leave a review or e-mail me on or before Sunday, October 6th! I will try to get in as many questions as I possibly can! Until then, see ya!