Fully aware that dinner is only a few hours away, I allow Jason to carry a small plate with a few bites into the Dining Room for me, as well as a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice which I watched him make. He also brought a sealed bottle of water... but it had a tiny hole near the screw-cap, so I left it untouched.

A short chat with Luisa after Melissa and Jason leave the room leads to an offer of partnership for the purpose of defeating Michael. I give a non-committal answer, as I wish to wait until the actual starting of the contest at dinner today. The fight will be terrific, challenging, and strategic; while a temporary partnership may be fun, I'm looking at the final victory. Seeing my four adversaries bent before me, especially the uppity Michael... well the imagination boggles at the thought. Picturing Jason buggering Michael or Luisa munching Melissa's rug made my crotch wet and deepened my breathing.

I finished with my snack, then headed upstairs, passing Jason. I heard Melissa crying, and stopped by her slightly-ajar door.

"Melissa? Do you need a friend, dear girl?" I turn on my 'Zealander' accent, which should be a touch from home for the girl. Indeed, she rises from her chair and runs to me. I take her in and hug her closely.

I sit down on the couch, pulling her along with me. She lays her head on my shoulder.

"Dear girl; I'm from your part of the world, and wish you no harm. If I may suggest, just relax and clean up from your long trip today. At the banquet this evening, there will be much information to be shared, and may just be a way out of trouble for you! One never knows, right?"

She turns her tearful face up towards me for the first time. I wait for the sobs to stop, listening if she has anything to say for herself.