(Cut to some time later. MARVIN stands on the edge of camp with a makeshift ax. He seems very angry. He is in the process of chopping up a PILE of WOOD. RITA stands behind him, arms folded. She isn't sure what to say)
RITA
I...I could get you another bunny.
MARVIN
Hmph. Well, perhaps it's not a replacement I'd like...but the same bunny I'll never see again...
RITA
He was a cute rabbit, Marvin...
(MARVIN doesn't respond. He just chops another LOG with the AXE. RITA takes a step closer)
...Do you not believe me?
MARVIN
(Solemnly)
I'm convinced you switched the ropes...
(Pause)
RITA
What?
MARVIN
Did you switch the ropes, Rita?
RITA
No-
MARVIN
(Quickly)
Very well. Very well. Come. Chop wood with me. I'm not going to bite...
RITA
(Crossing over)
When? When was there one time where I could have, like, reached into your bag, removed the rabbit-
MARVIN
How did you know it was in my bag?
RITA
I sleep next to you!
MARVIN
Well, no matter...
(He offers her the AX)
Chop some wood. Make yourself useful...
RITA
I couldn't have taken it!
(MARVIN holds the AX out toward RITA. She jumps back a little, frightened)
MARVIN
The tip isn't that sharp. Want to see?
RITA
What?
MARVIN
Go on. Touch it.
RITA
I didn't do it, Marvin! Do whatever you want, okay-
MARVIN
Rita-
RITA
(Finishing)
But there's nothing I could have gained from taking your pet!
MARVIN
Your concerns are boring me...
(MARVIN rolls his eyes, pulling the AX away from her. He starts to walk away. RITA groans, very annoyed. She rolls her eyes. She calls out to him)
RITA
Wait, wait. I'll...I'll touch it!
MARVIN
Just a prick of the finger...
(MARVIN holds the AX out to RITA, eyes gleaming. She stares at it, angry, lost for words)
RITA
If you cut me-
MARVIN
A finger in exchange for a bunny?
(RITA sighs and holds out her PAW. She touches the AX lightly, feeling how sharp it is. MARVIN yanks it away. Startled, RITA steps back again)
MARVIN
Not a drop of blood...
RITA
What could I have gained?
MARVIN
(Cutting her off)
Why are you aligned with Timon and Sonic?
RITA
Because we're voting out Dodger!
MARVIN
And why haven't I heard?
RITA
I was going to!
MARVIN
Do you know what's going to happen if you make finals?
RITA
I know...
MARVIN
You're in quite the predicament.
RITA
I know-
MARVIN
You're content being dragged to the end?
RITA
I didn't come here to talk game!
MARVIN
Okay...
RITA
I mean, I did - I...I came here to talk about voting for Dodger...but there's more to it...
MARVIN
This should be good...
(RITA takes a deep breath. She starts to sniffle. MARVIN seems disturbed, but he struggles not to show it)
RITA
I'm crying. Damn it...
MARVIN
Go on...
RITA
I was never taunting you...or mocking you. I think it's screwed what happened to your friend... that's all I have to say...
(Pause. MARVIN studies her closely. After a moment, he drops the AX to the ground)
MARVIN
(After a moment)
You really didn't take it, did you?
RITA
No! No!
(She laughs in relief, struggling to stop tearing up)
Yes! I mean, I'm not a witch...
MARVIN
Well...then who did?
(Cut to a shot of TIMON running in the DESERT. He crouches behind ROCKS, ducking into CRATERS, trying not to be seen. He looks absolutely panicked)
(Cut to TIMON in a confessional)
TIMON
I know it's sickening, I know it's messed up, but I've got to cover my tracks...
(Cut back to the scene. TIMON is now scaling the same SMALL CLIFF where he left the BUNNY. He reaches the TOP, squinting in the sunlight, sweeping the ground and trying to find something)
(Cut to another confessional)
TIMON
...Of course, then I remembered...I left my damn backpack on top of the cliff...
(Cut back to the scene. TIMON picks up his KNAPSACK, strapping it on. Suddenly, he hears voices. He glances down in the DESERT and sees CADPIG and WAKKO walking about twenty feet below)
TIMON
Crap...
(TIMON ducks out of sight, trying to hide behind a ROCK. The camera shifts to WAKKO and CADPIG at the base of the CLIFF. They seem to be searching around for something)
WAKKO
Cadpig, this is ridiculous-
CADPIG
I know! I mean, who looks at this cute, snuggly, wuggly little thing and decides, "Hey, y'know what's missing here? A freaking JET ENGINE CARRYING IT AWAY INTO THE STRATOSPHERE!'
WAKKO
We can play detective later...
CADPIG
Aren't you upset?
WAKKO
Well, yes, I am - but-
CADPIG
(Cutting off WAKKO)
Do you think it was Rita?
WAKKO
I don't know-
CADPIG
(Very quickly)
I mean, cause she's always playing mind games with Marvin-
WAKKO
(Struggling to stay calm)
Look. I love bunnies...
CADPIG
Okay...?
WAKKO
But there's a vote tonight.
CADPIG
Don't you care?
WAKKO
Yes. But last round, I lost my sister. You lost Courage. Do you want something like that again? We still have to talk to Rita and Cat about flipping on Marvin...
(There is a shower of PEBBLES from above them. TIMON has lost his balance. He slips off the CLIFF, plummeting down right in front of them. He cushions the fall with his KNAPSACK. WAKKO and CADPIG stare at the KNAPSACK in shock. They make the connection)
TIMON
(After a moment)
Um, hey guys...
CADPIG
YOU!
TIMON
Whoa, whoa, I can explain-
CADPIG
BUNNY ASSASSIN!
TIMON
You better back off all right?
CADPIG
WHY? WHAT WAS YOUR LOGIC?
TIMON
Hey, I'm warning you!
(WAKKO steps forward and heaves TIMON up from the ground. TIMON backs up in the CLIFF, cornered, frightened of approaching them)
WAKKO
I'd like an explanation too, Timon!
TIMON
Well, stop hogging my air! Let me breathe!
WAKKO
Did you really tie the rabbit?
TIMON
I love animals! I hide from poachers, for crying out loud! I mean, I...I stole the rabbit, yes-
CADPIG
You admit it-
TIMON
I did it so Marvin would blame Rita! I thought they were aligning to vote me out! I...I needed to do something to save myself-
CADPIG
So how'd the bunny go airborne?
TIMON
SONIC! Sonic tied the wrong rope to the helicopter. I'm just trying to cover it up, y'know?
(Pause. The OTHERS glare at him
So you...you won't tell anyone, right?
WAKKO
Well...you did steal the bunny-
TIMON
I didn't, like, mistreat it-
WAKKO
But if it hadn't been for you-
TIMON
(Cutting him off)
I gave it carrots even-
WAKKO
(Continuing)
Okay, but If you hadn't taken it, this wouldn't have happened.
TIMON
You're going to equate stealing a bunny with tying it to a helicopter?
CADPIG
(Shaking her head)
Ugh. Whatever, Timon...
(CADPIG tries to drag WAKKO away. TIMON angrily steps forward and stops them)
TIMON
Oh no you don't! Ya think I'm going to let you tell Marvin?
WAKKO
What's more important? Marvin's pet or this stupid game?
TIMON
This isn't just a board game, kid-
CADPIG
Yeah! Maybe of we were playing Monopoly or something, you wouldn't have failed at every challenges! I want you to tell Marvin exactly what happened -
TIMON
No-
WAKKO
(Trying to be gentle)
Marvin is going to find out. Why don't you just turn yourself in rather than...have Marvin ..tear you apart?
TIMON
I can't do that...
CADPIG
Well, there's always an alternative...
TIMON
What?
CADPIG
I could tell him.
(Pause)
TIMON
If you told him Cadpig, I swear-
CADPIG
Come on, Timon. I could whoop you like a hunk of salami...
TIMON
What?
WAKKO
OKAY, LOOK! Marvin's going to find out. You're just hurting yourself at this point...
TIMON
(Glaring at WAKKO)
Let Marvin come at me. I'll be ready for him...
(Pause)
Y'know Wak...your pockets are looking pretty empty tonight...
WAKKO
(Glaring at TIMON)
So?
TIMON
Cadpig here has an Idol. You, on the other hand...maybe we could throw a couple of votes your way...
WAKKO
You wouldn't-
TIMON
Well, if you turn me in, I'll just rally the others to vote you out! How's that?
CADPIG
(Blurting it out)
Hey. Hey. Timon.
TIMON
What?
CADPIG
If you don't side with us tonight to vote out Marvin...what if we told him about the rabbit?
(Silence)
TIMON
You're going down that route?
CADPIG
I'll tell Marvin that you grabbed his rabbit, forcibly tied it to a helicopter, and sent it flying away over Death Valley.
TIMON
(Appalled)
Where the heck is this side of you coming from?
CADPIG
It's the side that eats meerkats for breakfast.
TIMON
(To WAKKO)
And you're just going to stay silent here?
WAKKO
(Glaring at CADPIG)
Well, it...it isn't, like-
TIMON
Speak up!
WAKKO
Shut up, Timon!...Look. It's not right to blackmail people, Cadpig-
CADPIG
He's trying to vote you out!
TIMON
(Very annoyed)
...Um, hey dingbats-
CADPIG
What?
TIMON
I could swing to Marvin. All right? That was our plan for tonight. You didn't bother to talk to us!
WAKKO
We were going to...
TIMON
Oh, shut up, Wakko! You kill yourself defending Dot! Now what, you're defending Cadpig?
WAKKO
(Annoyed)
I...I didn't say I was down with what she's-
TIMON
(Rolling his eyes)
NOPE! Done deal! I'll vote with you. Why not? Yay for blackmailing!
(TIMON storms away. WAKKO watches in dismay. CADPIG observes him worriedly, unsure of what to say next)
CADPIG
(Quietly)
I had to, Wakko. I was trying to protect you..
(Pause. WAKKO doesn't respond)
Wakko?
WAKKO
(Not looking at her)
Stop this...
CADPIG
Stop what?
WAKKO
Remember the old Cadpig?
CADPIG
Who's that?
WAKKO
You're..you're letting the game change you. Tone it down. Please...
CADPIG
(Feebly)
I...I didn't mean to blackmail him.
WAKKO
I know-
CADPIG
I just felt bad... about the bunny because-
WAKKO
(Glaring at her)
Yes. But now Timon hates us...
(Cut to TIMON in a confessional)
TIMON
If by some stretch of miracle Cadpig makes finals, I'm going to give her one hell of a jury speech, let me tell you that. ...I could've pulled the sympathy card with those guys, y'know, milking the whole thing about my Mom - but I refused. I won't sink that low. If Cadpig has an Idol, and she's probably sketched out enough to play it at this point...I'm going to get everyone to shoot for Wakko. I don't even want to risk splitting the votes tonight...
(Cut to TIMON, SONIC, RITA, MARVIN, and DODGER gathered around the CAMPFIRE)
TIMON
So you're all right with flipping, Dodger?
DODGER
I mean...it won't be the first time...
(Cut to DODGER in a confessional)
DODGER
Timon approached me with this whole spiel about flipping on Wakko. I mean, initially, I was against it – just, y'know, considering my, uhhh...questionable relationship with Cadpig. Then the more I thought about it, I figured they've got majority anyway – since you've got Marvin, Rita, Timon, Sonic, and Cat all gunning for Wakko. Right? So really, if I just throw a random vote this round and play dumb...I could get rid of Wakko and keep Cadpig going forward...
(Cut back to the scene)
TIMON
I want to believe you want Wakko out-
DODGER
He's good at challenges. People like him. Let's do it...
TIMON
(Slowly)
All right - well, we are going to have to deal with a venomous Cadpig next round-
DODGER
(Pretending to be CADPIG)
"Okay my peeps, let me look into your eyes. Whoever has the most positive energy get a million dollars."
RITA
(Laughing)
That was good, Dodger!
DODGER
(Laughing quietly)
Nah, Cad's a good kid. She's just, y'know, ..loud.
RITA
(Cutting him off)
Whatever! We're all annoying. I'm annoying.
SONIC
(Smiling, moving closer to her)
Nah, you're just spunky, Rita. I like it...
RITA
Yeah. Back away now, Sonic...
(The OTHERS force laughs. SONIC glances over at MARVIN. He seems detached from the OTHERS, staring out into SPACE. SONIC smiles at him)
SONIC
Oh. Hey Marvin-
MARVIN
Yes?
SONIC
Y'know, if you're looking for a new pet, there's some salamanders under that rock by the shelter!
(Long, painful silence. Everyone looks at each other)
MARVIN
Hmph.
SONIC
You could keep it in your pocket!
TIMON
(To SONIC)
Are you an awful person or just an idiot? I can't tell sometimes.
MARVIN
(Coldly)
I'd love to replace my pet!
SONIC
Cool! I'll show you the rock-
MARVIN
And next time a jet engine picks you up and drags you away as your life flashes before your eyes, why don't we replace you?
(Awkward pause)
SONIC
Hey. Um, can I just take this moment to say...
MARVIN
Yes?
SONIC
The guy told me to clip the rope, and I just-
MARVIN
One rope was blue and the other was green-
SONIC
I'm color-blind-
MARVIN
(Standing up)
WELL, YOU'RE ALSO AN IDIOT!
TIMON
(Raising his hand)
EXCUSE ME GUYS? On the "S.S Timon" we run with happy faces. We don't squabble!
RITA
(Whispering to DODGER)
Yeah...if we're going by him, we'd also don't bathe...
(Cut to MARVIN in a confessional)
MARVIN
I know exactly what Timon's trying to do. He's planning to use Dodger and myself - two people who have been relentlessly targeted all game - to pick off Wakko and Cadpig. After that, they'll gain majority and finish off both of us. So at that point, you're looking at a Final Four: Timon, Sonic, Cat, and probably Rita - also probably the most anticlimactic ending ever.
(He pauses for a moment)
Still, I'm just playing along for now - because I think if I just feel people out a little more, I could turn the game around...
(Cut back to the scene. TIMON glances around the CAMPFIRE, inspecting everyone's faces. After a moment, he frowns)
TIMON
Hey guys...has anyone seen Cat?
(Cut to somewhere out in the DESERT. CAT seems to have retreated very far from CAMP - in fact, he seems to be off in an uncharted area. The area is a SMALL FOREST of DEAD TREES. CAT glances through the FOREST, glancing up at the BRANCHES, shielding his FACE from the SUN)
CAT
After Marvin's...incident...I felt bad breaking the news to everyone. So, I decided to go for a walk first...
(Cut to CAT glancing up at the BRANCHES. He seems to notice something. It's some kind of SMALL ANIMAL stuck on a HIGH BRANCH, very frightened. CAT's jaw drops)
(Cut back to CAT in a confessional)
CAT
When I was at the clinic, there were a lot of things going on in my head - but one thing I kept coming back to was...when I was little, Dog and I went to this carnival in town. They had a freak show - y'know, those barbaric practices: bearded women, people with three heads... Then the ringleader came up to us. He wanted us to sign a contract...to be in the show. The freak show...
(Cut back to the scene. CAT is climbing up the TREE, heading toward the HIGHEST BRANCH. When he reaches it, he finds MARVIN's BUNNY. It is shaking and terrified, still tethered to the ROPE that somehow came loose from the helicopter. CAT smiles and picks it up)
(Cut back to CAT in a confessional)
CAT
Being kids...we didn't know any better. We signed the forms. We went on stage...and we stood there, belittled and abused. People threw soda at us. Popcorn. Kids our own age were yelling things...
(Cut back to the scene. CAT caresses the BUNNY, stroking its back. It seems to like him. Sitting at the top of the TREE, CAT glances out at the HORIZON. He ponders what to do)
(Cut back to CAT in a confessional)
CAT
I don't remember what happened next. I think this woman got us outside somehow. I just remember being with my brother by the merry-go-round crying. The police were there...and one of them said something to me. Something I just remembered now..."Those people don't get you. I don't even get you...but your brother does, and that's all that matters..."
(Cut back to the scene. CAT now stands in the middle of the DESERT with the BUNNY. Over the HILL, smoke rises from the FIRE at the CAMP. CAT seems to consider approaching. However, he frowns, holding back. Very gently, CAT places it down on the ground. It stays for a moment, sniffing his hands. CAT nudges it forward. The BUNNY - formally known as HOPSALOT - takes off into the DESERT. CAT watches and smiles)
CAT
When I let the bunny go free...that was where I felt it. Seriously, I don't remember the last time I felt so happy. I realized what really mattered. I realized what didn't...and then the words just rose up to the top of my throat...
(Cut back to the scene. CAT's smile quivers, trying to form words. He takes a step forward. He raises his arms to the DESERT, standing in the sunlight. Then, at the top of his lungs, he screams)
CAT
I QUITTTTT!
(Cut to several minutes later. CAT, SONIC, and TIMON are sitting together on ROCKS on the outskirts of CAMP. TIMON and SONIC look shocked)
SONIC
C'mon. You have to at least let me try to talk you out of this...
CAT
I'm done.
SONIC
Come on, Cat-
CAT
(Quietly)
I made a mistake.
SONIC
But-
CAT
And if you guys just needed me for the vote this round, I don't know what to tell you.
TIMON
(Quietly)
We didn't need you for this round...
CAT
Okay...
TIMON
I mean...it would have been nice...
(Awkward pause)
SONIC
I don't understand what you're feeling...
CAT
What do you mean?
SONIC
I don't have a brother. I don't know. I don't get how it feels...
TIMON
Why didn't you just tell us this earlier?
CAT
I didn't want to complicate anything.
(Pause)
I'm sorry, Timon...
TIMON
For what?
CAT
The letter...everything...
TIMON
You shouldn't be...
CAT
I was going to see Dog when I got home no matter what. I mean, for you, based on what you said about your Mom, it really seemed like...y'know, that was up in the air-
TIMON
Hey. We brought that upon ourselves. Talking to your family shouldn't be something that...gives you the jitters like it does for us, y'know?
(Pause. CAT is taken aback)
Look, look...I'll tell you what...
CAT
Yes?
TIMON
Didn't you say people mess with you and Dog back home?
(CAT starts to tear up, but not out of fear. His manages to smile. TIMON struggles not to cry as well)
CAT
Yeah..
TIMON
(Smiling back)
Well, give me their address. I'll mail them a bunch of millipedes. How's that?
CAT
Thanks...
(CAT breaks down. He wipes his tears)
I feel like... you guys were my only friends here. I mean...before I left...just...thank you...
SONIC
(Resting a hand on his shoulder)
Get out of here, Cat. All right? If you can't take the heat, go home..
(CAT stands up awkwardly. He glances at SONIC. SONIC struggles to make eye contact - but he still opens his arms to invite a hug. CAT accepts. When they finish, SONIC seems to be struggling for word. TIMON watches from the side. He seems to want to get up, but he can't manage to do it)
CAT
Something to say to me, Sonic?
SONIC
Just...look, hit me up when we get back home. I'll get you in shape. Next summer, you'll be looking like a tank!
CAT
Well, before I go, there's something else I can offer you guys...
TIMON
Yes?
CAT
Use it tonight. Burn it. Whatever. Just take it.
(CAT reaches into his KNAPSACK. He pulls out the IMMUNITY NECKLACE that he won at the CHALLENGE. The OTHERS gawk at it)
Who wants to be immune?
(Cut to several minutes later. CAT is nowhere to be found. TIMON and SONIC stand together by the CAMPFIRE. SONIC holds the IMMUNITY NECKLACE)
TIMON
THANK YOU, CAT! HALLELUJAH!
SONIC
(Very forced)
If either of us win the million man, we're giving a little something to him! No questions asked!
TIMON
I'll chip in for a scratching post!
(He claps SONIC on the shoulder)
So what's up, whatcha thinking big man?
SONIC
Hmmm. Let me think...let me think...
(SONIC takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself. TIMON notices that he seems uncomfortable)
TIMON
You still shaken up?
SONIC
(Trying to laugh)
...Yeah. I mean...I don't deal with this stuff, y'know?
TIMON
Saying goodbye?
SONIC
I don't know. Drama. Like, I'm okay with drama.. Usually. Unless it's depressing...
TIMON
(Gently)
Isn't all drama depressing?
SONIC
(Smiling at TIMON)
Yeah, whatever. So...we can only play this necklace thing tonight, right?
TIMON
You can't stash a necklace you won at a challenge...
SONIC
But - wait - oh my God, my gears are spinning!
TIMON
Whatcha thinking, bro?
SONIC
(Awed)
We're "bros?"
TIMON
DUH! Since - well, since Norb got blindsided, right?
SONIC
(Raising his hand)
WAIT! One of the pillars of "brohood." We need a handshake.
TIMON
..Um, what?
SONIC
I've got a handshake for all of my friends! Don't you?
TIMON
I only have, like...two.
SONIC
(Raising his hand)
Well, we'll start with our fists, man. See? Spin them around. Do the thumbs-up...
TIMON
(Fumbling with his hands)
I'm uncoordinated...
SONIC
(Laughing a little)
Just, here, take your finger-
TIMON
(Getting annoyed)
I give up. What's your big idea?
SONIC
(Holding up the NECKLACE)
Let's give this to Wakko, right? We save him tonight. Marvin freaks out. He plays his Idol. Heck, for all we know, Cadpig freaks and plays hers, so no more Idols. Then with Wakko covered, everyone votes out Dodger. Bam!
(Pause)
TIMON
I...I don't think we're cool with Wakko and Cadpig...
SONIC
So we flip. We earn their favor; we take majority-
TIMON
(Frowning)
But - that's a really bad idea...
(Pause)
SONIC
Why?
TIMON
(Very nervous)
I'm not...cool with Cadpig and Wakko...
SONIC
What did you do to them?
TIMON
There's just a lot of, um...differences...
SONIC
Um...what?
TIMON
There's, like...um, cultural, economic, um, sociological...um...differences...
SONIC
What?
TIMON
Y'know what I mean?
SONIC
No, I don't-
TIMON
(Cutting him off)
And like, personality conflicts! Y'know?
SONIC
I don't...
TIMON
There's just a lot of, like...conflict between me and those guys, so...so going forward, I'd prefer not to bother them. That's all.
(Awkward pause)
SONIC
So - are they, like, racist?
TIMON
What?
SONIC
Well, you said cultural-
TIMON
No! What? Don't be an idiot!
SONIC
(Annoyed)
I don't know! Maybe they're, like, prejudiced against meerkats-
TIMON
No one hates meerkats-
SONIC
(Shaking his head)
Dude, we're sidetracked. Go back, go back-
TIMON
Isn't it better to work with people who don't, y'know, hate you?
SONIC
That's a loaded word: "hate."
TIMON
You really think they hate me because I'm a meerkat!?
SONIC
Ugh. Timon-
TIMON
(Pointing at SONIC)
Give me, like, one example of any time they hated me-
SONIC
See! Look!
TIMON
What do you mean?
SONIC
See! Now you're arguing that they like you. If that's true - why can't we just flip?
TIMON
I...I don't know...
SONIC
Are you, like, paranoid that they don't like you? I mean, if it's the meerkat thing - I mean, you're covered in dirt all the time, you kind of smell like the jungle...but it's no reason for them to, like, hate you...
(Pause)
TIMON
(After a moment)
I got to tell you something...
SONIC
Sure...
TIMON
(Glaring at him)
You can use this against me...but, I mean...it's something I did...
SONIC
Okay...
TIMON
I have nowhere to go.
SONIC
What is it?
(MARVIN appears behind them. Very quickly, SONIC hides the IMMUNITY NECKLACE. MARVIN crosses over to the CAMPFIRE and picks up an EMPTY PAIL. He winks at them, clearly observing)
MARVIN
Didn't mean to disturb you.
SONIC
Just talking here, Marvin...
MARVIN
Hmmm. Thought I smelled something fishy, but I must have been wrong-
SONIC
(Annoyed)
Okay, Timon doesn't smell that bad!
TIMON
(Looking at MARVIN)
Actually...I think I have a a migraine.
SONIC
(Confused)
Um - you sure, bro?
TIMON
Yeah, yeah, really. I'm fine. I'm...I'm going to go lie down. Catch you later...
(TIMON hurriedly walks away. On his way out, he turns to MARVIN, winking at him quickly. MARVIN nods before looking away. SONIC looks at MARVIN, confused, wondering what's just happened
MARVIN
Don't worry, Sonic. Friends always come back...unless they're bunnies...
(Cut to TIMON in a confessional)
TIMON
I mean, I know Sonic's playing the friendship card and everything. I feel bad about it...but what am I supposed to do? Align with Cadpig and Wakko after..."bunnygate?"
(He takes a deep breath)
I mean, if I can't vote out Cadpig because she might play her Idol, and I can't vote out Wakko because Sonic's freaking giving him immunity - well, yeah, I guess I'm going to have to flip on Sonic...
(Cut to MARVIN, RITA, and TIMON standing together off in the DESERT. TIMON looks very uncomfortable. The atmosphere is very tense)
MARVIN
Are you sure it was Sonic?
TIMON
Positive.
RITA
Sonic stole the rabbit?
TIMON
I'm going by what he told me...
MARVIN
He tied it to a helicopter?
TIMON
You can believe what you want...but that's what I heard, and I think he's trying to pull in Wakko and Cadpig to frame me-
MARVIN
(Quietly)
Did he feed it?
TIMON
Why would you ask?
MARVIN
I want to know if Hopsalot ate...before his...demise...
TIMON
Well...he gave it a couple carrots maybe...
RITA
(Glaring at him)
So...what do you want from us?
TIMON
If you guys, me, and Dodger team up...we could vote out Sonic tonight. He's giving Wakko Cat's immunity necklace...
RITA
Wait, slow down - go back - where's Cat?
TIMON
Cat quit.
MARVIN
What?
TIMON
He got picked up by a truck. He's gone. So, think about it: what does that mean for you guys?
MARVIN
(Appalled)
He quit?
TIMON
Yes, Marvin.
MARVIN
That...that ungrateful, spineless little-
RITA
Cool it! So - you're saying you want Sonic out, Timon?
TIMON
Yes-
RITA
We'd have to talk to Dodger. In that case, we'd want Dodger and Wakko out next. Then in the Final Four, we knock out Cadpig. How does that sound?
TIMON
Sounds like a relief...
RITA
(Still glaring at him)
You bet..
TIMON
(Standing up)
Thank you, guys! I don't know what I can do for you! I mean - if you ever need a box to sleep in Rita, or if you ever want to, like, abduct some gazelles in Africa to probe them Marvin, I'm your guy! Thank you.
(RITA nods at him, not responding. MARVIN is still too angry to speak. TIMON nods awkwardly, smiling, and takes off)
MARVIN
(Annoyed)
I wasn't even down with that, Rita-
RITA
Shut up, Marvin...
MARVIN
What?
RITA
Look at what our jungle friend left behind...
(RITA bends down and picks up TIMON's knapsack, orphaned on the GROUND. There is something orange in the front pouch, clearly visible. She pulls out a BABY CARROT. There are a RABBIT'S BITE MARKS on it. She shows it to MARVIN, who is aghast)
RITA
What's up, doc?
(Cut to RITA smiling in a confessional)
RITA
So – I don't know, after exposing Timon as a marsupial bandit, I'm actually a lot more calm. It's like – it felt good to do something right. I mean – for a while, I was really anxious about the idea of having to send home Marvin – but now, I just feel better with everyone in general. I mean, I'd hang with Sonic - even Dodger, and I thought was a flea-ridden pest before. It's just...relieving. I can make my own moves. I can stop caring. I can just, y'know.. be me...
(Cut to a few minutes later. RITA and MARVIN are now crouched together in the SHELTER. MARVIN is holding one of the CARROTS in his palm. He strokes it back and forth, staring out into space. RITA seems excited, talking about some kind of plan)
RITA
I'm fine with going incognito, man. I'll pretend I'm with them. Then I'll just flip. We'll vote out Sonic...
MARVIN
(Forcing a smile)
Is this some kind of spy movie? I should watch out; the villains tend to die grotesquely-
RITA
I don't think you're a villain. I mean - coming from me, that's a compliment...
MARVIN
You think so highly of yourself...
RITA
The dark side's great...
MARVIN
I'm glad we're in tune with each other...
(Awkward silence)
RITA
So, I mean, after this round, we could just vote out Dodger and Wakko right? We could save Cadpig for Final Four - then, I mean, whoever wins final immunity just takes Timon...
MARVIN
Hmph.
RITA
Can you speak English?
MARVIN
A captain goes down with a sinking ship...and I'd be pleased to go down with this one...
RITA
Well, I'm going to go talk to them; pretend to side with them, y'know? I'll talk to you before the vote...
(MARVIN scowls at her. RITA smiles)
Hey, hey, can I get a hug?
MARVIN
Excuse me?
RITA
For making it this far?
MARVIN
If I had a festering wart on my foot, I can assure you...I'd name it Rita.
(RITA grins and steps forward. She reaches out to hug MARVIN. MARVIN, very uncomfortable, allows it. He doesn't even move his arms. It's probably the most awkward thing ever)
RITA
That was weird...
MARVIN
Adios.
RITA
Goodbye Marvin...
(RITA takes off in the other direction. MARVIN glares at her, watching her go)
(Cut to MARVIN in a confessional)
MARVIN
I can tell what's happening - they're all going to shack up together, alienate Dodger and myself, and then try to vote us out. Rita's just playing both sides to...pacify me for now. So is that it? Do I bow out now? Do I leave this game...covered in dirt and holding the lingering remains of my friends' carrots? In my anger management classes, I was advised...to practice deep breathing. Right now however, I can hardly breathe at all - and I've never been more thrilled to be angry...
(Cut to somewhere out in the DESERT. SONIC is standing with CADPIG and WAKKO, both of whom look horrified)
WAKKO
Who's trying to vote for me?
SONIC
Timon - but wait, let me explain-
CADPIG
(Cutting in)
Wakko, it's not like we didn't see this coming-
WAKKO
Ugh, Cadpigggggg-
CADPIG
Timon was antagonizing us-
WAKKO
You could've handled it better!
(WAKKO starts to pace back and forth, rubbing his head. The OTHERS watch worriedly. CADPIG takes a step forward)
CADPIG
Calm down! We'll bring in Cat and...um - I mean, if Sonic's willing to vote with us, we'd only need two more so-
SONIC
Cat quit...
CADPIG
WHAT?
WAKKO
I'm so done!
(WAKKO seizes his KNAPSACK. He chucks it into the air. It goes flying and lands about fifty yards away. He starts to walk away from the OTHERS. CADPIG runs out to stop him)
CADPIG
I said I was sorry-
WAKKO
(Not looking at her)
Stop. Please. Stop talking-
CADPIG
(Glaring)
I'm not going to sit here like a slug, all right? We're not going to sit here, like...like wiggling amoebas. We're cognoscente; were capable of intelligent thought here- so let's apply reason-
WAKKO
How?
CADPIG
Well, reasonably, you're probably going home-
WAKKO
(Groaning)
Oh my God..
CADPIG
But let's apply conflicting reason to argue! Look at me - you're not going home tonight...
WAKKO
Then tell me how? How? I know you said we're not slugs, but I feel like jelly...
SONIC
I know how...
(SONIC reaches into his KNAPSACK. He pulls out the IMMUNITY NECKLACE that CAT gave him. The OTHERS stare at in shock)
SONIC
Cat's immunity necklace. He gave it to me before he quit-
(He points to WAKKO)
Tonight at Council, I'm hooking you up with it, boyo-
WAKKO
You're out of your mind-
CADPIG
Cat gave that to you?
SONIC
He hooked me up before he left - so cut the confrontation; hang with the hedgehog. I'll give this to you. We make a pact for the Final Three...
CADPIG
There's no funny business here...?
SONIC
I'm missing the punchline.
CADPIG
I'm just..perplexed...
SONIC
There's no other reason for me to give this to you.
WAKKO
(Pointing at the NECKLACE)
Yeah, Cadpig - I don't have the receipt for this...
CADPIG
Well, we would need a fourth person. Who would that be?
SONIC
(Frowning)
Timon's being fidgety. Don't tell him...but I think he suspects you guys are a little...prejudiced...
WAKKO
What?
SONIC
I mean, meerkats are kind of gross. But don't, like, discriminate...
CADPIG
What's Timon been telling you?
SONIC
He seems scared.
CADPIG
(Catching on)
Wait, Wakko - because we yelled at him about the rabbit!
WAKKO
You think that's why he targeted me?
CADPIG
Yes! Can you believe him, man?
SONIC
(Excited)
Wait, wait - go back - did they find the rabbit?
(Pause)
WAKKO
Should we tell him?
CADPIG
I mean, we kind of have to. Sonic - um - are you like biffles with Timon?
SONIC
A biffle?
WAKKO
It's Cadpig-speak for...friend...
CADPIG
I think it's great that you guys have built such, like, positive camaraderie-
WAKKO
Cadpig, don't beat around the bush...
CADPIG
Timon stole the rabbit...
(Pause)
SONIC
What?
CADPIG
He stole Marvin's bunny.
SONIC
I think you guys have something mixed up here...
WAKKO
He confessed.
SONIC
But - dude, I gave him a secret handshake-
CADPIG
Sonic, we're sorry.
WAKKO
(Gently)
Hey. I mean, I know you mentioned that he made you eat that caterpillar too...but really, bugs just, like, burn through your digestive system...
CADPIG
What?
WAKKO
I've eaten a few.
CADPIG
Okay, well - that's beside the point...
(RITA appears behind them. The OTHERS crowd together, apprehensive. SONIC struggles to hide the NECKLACE. RITA sees it but doesn't seem surprised)
RITA
Did you guys already tell him about the rabbit?
WAKKO
What are you doing back here?
RITA
There's a vote soon.
CADPIG
Yes, we told Sonic about the bunny napping. Now, what do you want?
RITA
Timon's trying to frame Sonic...
(Cut to several minutes later. SONIC is sitting on a ROCK, dejected, his face in his hands. RITA stands beside him, her hand on his shoulder. WAKKO and CADPIG stand nearby)
SONIC
He just, like, threw me under the bus...
RITA
Well, it took you like three weeks to realize, Sonic, but congratulations! You're playing "Survivor"...
CADPIG
Well, the good news is we know the truth. Marvin does too, like Rita said. Timon will never win now...
SONIC
(Quietly)
He deserves to go home...
RITA
(To WAKKO and CADPIG)
Well, I'll tell you what, guys. If you're gunning for Marvin right now, you're making a mistake...
CADPIG
What's going on?
RITA
Well, during that whole schism to blindside Wakko, I think Marvin stopped trusting the two of you...and just so you know, Dodger was in on it too...
CADPIG
Are you telling me that Dodger flipped?
RITA
Yep.
CADPIG
Again?
RITA
He wanted Wakko out...
WAKKO
I mean, if we're willing to work together tonight to get rid of Dodger, I'm down...
SONIC
No. I just...like, why would Timon do that?
RITA
Oh Sonic, get over it. People lie. At this point, yes, I'd be fine getting rid of Dodger...
WAKKO
Cadpig?
(CADPIG doesn't respond. She looks away from WAKKO, apparently in deep thought)
Cadpig?
CADPIG
(Quietly)
I'm going to be honest. I don't know...
RITA
Are you kidding me?
(WAKKO steps forward. Very quickly, he pulls RITA aside and whispers to her)
WAKKO
Look Rita - look - I think I know where she's coming from with Dodger. I can sort her out. Go...sort out Sonic...
(RITA glances at WAKKO wearily. She nods and takes SONIC, nudging him away. SONIC sighs and follows her off, shaking his head. CADPIG and WAKKO are left alone. CADPIG sits down on the ROCK, massaging her head. WAKKO forces a smile. He sits down beside her)
WAKKO
All right, the doctor's in the house!
CADPIG
I'm sorry, Wakko - really-
WAKKO
What's bothering you? Here. No secrets here. Nothing's embarrassing. Like...two years ago, I crammed fifty jelly beans into my mouth and they turned to juice and I couldn't find a trash can, and so when my sister talked to me, it all spilled out of my mouth-
CADPIG
(Smiling a little)
Well, I guess that's...funny-
WAKKO
What's eating your head?
CADPIG
(Closing her eyes)
I do I want to vote out Dodger. I do-
WAKKO
Good - well, that's a step in the right direction!
CADPIG
I don't...I don't want to say Dodger's gotten into my head. It's embarrassing - but-
WAKKO
What are you embarrassed of?
CADPIG
He flipped to try to vote out me and Courage! I know he's just screwing with me when he tries to nice but - Dodger's really good at making me think he, like, needs help. He gets in my head...
WAKKO
Help with what?
CADPIG
He plays the victim! He makes me think he, like, deserves something!
(She takes a breath)
So I don't want to ask you for help...but do you have an idea of how I can, like, stop thinking about him?
WAKKO
You want to hear my honest advice?
CADPIG
Yes?
WAKKO
Vote him out...
(Pause. WAKKO starts to chuckle. CADPIG is put off for a second. Then she starts to giggle as well)
And this appointment will be ten million dollars...
CADPIG
No. Do me a favor, if I ever, like, stick up for him again...please slap me-
WAKKO
Can I hit you with a mallet? That's more my expertise...
CADPIG
I'd like to push Dodger off a cliff...
(She starts to laugh harder)
I'm hysterical. Oh my God, I'm losing it! I mean, it feels so good to get this out...
(She stands up and hugs WAKKO. WAKKO hugs her back)
Thank you! You smell like roadkill but thank you!
WAKKO
And you smell like a really old carpet covered in pee!
(Cut to somewhere else off in the DESERT. MARVIN stands by the WELL, dropping the PAIL down into the WATER with the ROPE. TIMON appears behind him. MARVIN is aware but ignores him. TIMON clears his throat, trying to smile. Again, MARVIN ignores him)
TIMON
Hey Marvin-
MARVIN
I'm getting water, Timon. Can it please wait a second?
TIMON
Yeah, yeah - sure. Busy guy right here!
(MARVIN doesn't laugh. TIMON takes a deep breath)
Uhhh...yeah. Look, I just wanted to say thanks...for believing me. I thought that was honorable...
MARVIN
Do you consider throwing your friend under the bus honorable?
TIMON
I mean, in comparison to me, I feel like Dot was a horrible person...but once we get home, I wouldn't be surprised if ya'll start partying with her, y'know?
(MARVIN chuckles. TIMON relaxes a little)
Well, except you, Marv - can't see you drinking through a funnel or anything. I like you, y'know that? I mean, I feel like we're two of a kind; we're aliens. That's how I feel half the time anyway...
MARVIN
You're some kind of African rodent...
TIMON
The inside, man - not on the outside... Hey. When this game is over, you know what I'm going to do?
MARVIN
What?
TIMON
(Smiling a little)
I mean, with the million - a resort in Africa, man. Like, in Africa, but completely fenced-in, y'know, to save everyone from the hyenas. Well, you can think whatever you want of me Marv...but I'm hooking you up with a one-week stay. Bell hops. A pool. A cabana. I want to give that to you...
(MARVIN doesn't respond. TIMON glares at him, a little annoyed)
Y'know, it would be really nice of you to say something...
MARVIN
(After a moment)
I'm glad to be invited to your..."meerkat manor"...
TIMON
...Yeah...
(Pause)
Well...Dodger's in the loop now, right?
MARVIN
He's getting firewood...
TIMON
Well, let me know. And y'know, the resort. I'm not kidding. You're welcome anytime...
(TIMON walks off. MARVIN doesn't respond. He pulls the PAIL out of the WELL with the ROPE, unfazed, unflinching)
(Cut to the center of CAMP. DODGER is sitting alone at the CAMPFIRE with MARVIN. The sun has completely set and the flames are licking their faces. The time for TRIBAL is fast approaching)
DODGER
Whose voting me out? Who flipped?
MARVIN
You. You abandoned Cadpig in order to vote out Wakko. Before you accuse our tribe mates Dodger, it would be helpful to look in the mirror...
DODGER
I'd rather save my own hide...
MARVIN
You're going home. Why don't you be a little less accusatory and listen?
DODGER
(Glaring at him)
I just feel like...kind of mistreated. That's all-
MARVIN
Well, I'm sure Cadpig feels the same...
(Pause)
DODGER
What do you want?
MARVIN
I'm dead-locked out of the finals. Even if I play my Idol at Final Six, I wouldn't last the next few rounds without winning immunity - and if I voted you or Sonic out, there's a very good chance that immunity would go to Wakko. I don't want that, Dodger. You can think of yourself as my human shield; you can think of me any way you want- but if it means keeping the target off my back, I'd be willing to save you tonight...
DODGER
That's an offer.
MARVIN
The smirk on your face says otherwise...
DODGER
Who would you vote out this round instead of me?
MARVIN
You're going to laugh in my face-
DODGER
Timon?
MARVIN
Think about it: Rita's not worth getting rid of, Cadpig has an Idol, Wakko's going to be immune, Sonic's not worth getting rid of...If we aligned with Sonic next and guilt tripped him into flipping, Sonic could probably beat Wakko in the challenges. Timon, on the other hand, is a waste of space to me. He's outlived his usefulness...
DODGER
You'd be losing someone you could definitely beat...
MARVIN
What's the honor in that?
DODGER
Does...this have anything to do with your rabbit, Marvin?
MARVIN
Were you aware?
DODGER
(Smiling)
Aware of what? See now you've got to tell me; what happened?
MARVIN
I don't have to-
DODGER
Is Timon the one that stole it?
MARVIN
I'd prefer not to...have you intrude...
DODGER
Dude, to you, everything's personal.
MARVIN
I don't want to talk about it.
DODGER
Are you sure?
MARVIN
Yes.
DODGER
Fine...
(Pause)
I mean, thanks for covering me though, man. I could return the favor...
MARVIN
You're not responsible for anything...
(Another pause)
Well, I wish you an exciting Tribal...
(MARVIN gets up to leave. DODGER watches apprehensively. He coughs, trying to get MARVIN to stop. MARVIN turns and looks back at him)
MARVIN
Yes?
DODGER
Yknow, I had a pet too when I was a puppy.
MARVIN
A what?
DODGER
A goldfish. I had a goldfish. I stole it from a pet store. I got it in this plastic bag full of water - but there was a leak inside, and so the time I got to fifteenth street, it was dead...
MARVIN
(Frowning)
Well, that's enthralling...
DODGER
Are you sure you don't want to hang out, man?
MARVIN
(After a moment)
I...I could I suppose...
(MARVIN crosses back over to DODGER. He sits back down on the LOG. DODGER smiles at him. MARVIN struggles to return it)
MARVIN
I mean, that's unfortunate - about your goldfish..
DODGER
Yeah, there was this, like...coral reef thing on display. It poked the hole...
(A pause)
MARVIN
So...is there a reason you're so...uncomfortable around Cadpig now?
DODGER
(Quietly)
Oh. Just, like...steam leftover from Courage really. She's weird.
(Pause)
So, are you into, like...do you like any football teams?
MARVIN
(Ignoring him)
Why do you seem so scared of her though?
DODGER
(Annoyed)
Why are you bringing this up?
MARVIN
Retaliation. You brought up my bunny. Is it because you're...guilty?
DODGER
Marvin, I'm here to be friendly with you. That's all.
MARVIN
Fine.
DODGER
Good.
(Awkward silence)
Anyway, the New York Jets are a football team..
(Cut to TRIBAL COUNCIL later that night. The TRIBE enters with their RESPECTIVE TORCHES. They place them on the RACK and take their SEAT at the BENCH. SONIC is wearing the IMMUNITY NECKLACE. The HOST is already standing on his PODIUM, ready to make an announcement)
HOST
Well, as you're all probably aware at this point, Cat has decided to quit the game - however, after having a conversation with his brother over the phone, he has also agreed to stay on location and become the third member of our Jury. That means he will still be a deciding vote as to who gets a million dollars..
(The OTHERS nod, some relieved, some apprehensive. The HOST smiles at them)
Well...with that being said. It's time to vote. Sonic, from the look of it, Cat gave you his immunity necklace before he left the game. For those reasons, the necklace is still in play this round. Are you planning to keep it or give it away to somebody else?
SONIC
Well, some decisions are hard, but I made this one in a heartbeat. Wakko...I'm hooking you up tonight..and I hope somewhere down the road, you can respect that...
(SONIC takes off the IMMUNITY NECKLACE. He hands it over to WAKKO. WAKKO smiles softly before clipping it around his NECK. Both, however, still looks incredibly anxious. The same can be said for CADPIG and RITA sitting nearby)
HOST
Wakko...now immune tonight. Yet for some reason...absolutely nobody looks surprised. Dodger, would you care to comment?
DODGER
Well, they don't have anything to be smug about. I mean, there's people here who know what's going to happen; then there's the guys who don't. They'rethe ones who are history tonight. So...I'm not going to squeal on nobody. I'm just going to sit back and watch...
HOST
Well, with that being said, it is time to vote. Timon...you're up...
(Cut to TIMON in the VOTING BOOTH)
TIMON
All right Sonic, I can't keep you around anymore. Just...stop blindly trusting people so much. One day, you're going to walk into traffic. I'm sorry but...I'm not going home tonight. Goodbye.
(Cut to WAKKO in a confessional)
WAKKO
I shouldn't have survived this round, but low and behold, I'm standing with this around my neck. Dodger, you have ten lives in this game...and if you make it to eleven, I might just stick my head into a washing machine...
(Cut to SONIC in a confessional)
SONIC
All right, Timon, I'm angry. It's really, really hard to make me angry, and you've managed to make me angry. So congrats. Um, I can't vote for you tonight, but mark my word: I am not going to let you take a seat at finals - and yes, just so everyone knows, I'm not a racist. Meerkats are cool. It's just Timon...
(Cut to CADPIG in a confessional)
CADPIG
Dodger, we've had the most confuzzling relationship ever. If you don't go home tonight, there is something really out of whack with the cosmos...
(Cut to DODGER in a confessional)
DODGER
I'm in a real rough patch right now, ya'll...but trust me, I'm going to dig my way out of it...
(Cut to RITA in a confessional)
RITA
So, I really thought about this one - and - I mean, as much as I've built up a good rapport with Marvin, I wouldn't beat him in the finals. This is the best time to flip. My vote tonight goes to Dodger. I'm probably going to have to deal with Marvin going psycho on me next round...but I don't know, I'll find him a pet squirrel or something...
(Cut to MARVIN in a confessional. He doesn't say anything. He just writes down a name. Once he's done, he pulls a BABY CARROT out of his sleeve. He bites on it in front of the CAMERA. Then he whistles and strolls out of the BOOTH)
(Cut back to the scene. The CONTESTANTS all sit together, waiting for the HOST to return. DODGER in particular looks very apprehensive. He keeps glancing at MARVIN, trying to make eye contact. MARVIN doesn't return it. The HOST comes out of the HALLWAY with the URN of VOTES)
HOST
Once the votes are read, the decision is final. The person voted out will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. If anyone has a hidden immunity Idol, now would be the time to play it...
(The OTHERS glance at CADPIG. She takes a breath, but seems confident. She doesn't go for her KNAPSACK. Everyone turns to glance at MARVIN. There's a moment's pause. Then MARVIN reaches into his KNAPSACK)
MARVIN
Hold on, wait just a moment here-
(WAKKO, CADPIG, RITA, and SONIC exchange smiles, believing they've tricked MARVIN into wasting his IDOL. TIMON seems alarmed, struggling to piece together what's happening. DODGER smiles and leans back in his seat)
HOST
Please bring it to me, Marvin...
MARVIN
Hold up. This isn't for me tonight.
(He turns to address the OTHERS)
Look at these people here. You're looking at a majority of four. Rita's flipped. Sonic's flipped. They're going to have no reservations about going to the end together. Well, that's where I come in. Some may consider this...a waste. Playing an Idol on another person, especially a threat-
RITA
(Alarmed)
Wait, Marvin, what're you doing-
MARVIN
However, I need a foundation to stand on - allies -and I can't do it on my own. Dodger, I offer you my loyalty. You're welcome to take it...
(DODGER stands up. MARVIN hands him the IDOL and sits back down. DODGER crosses up to the HOST and hands him the IDOL. He takes a deep breath and sits back down, grinning ear to ear. Everyone else is horrified)
WAKKO
Cadpig, your Idol. Play your Idol. Quick...
(CADPIG glances over at WAKKO, SONIC, and RITA - all three of them are staring at her, pleading for her to play her Idol. She glances over at DODGER and MARVIN, both of them studying her, waiting for her to play it. Looking at their FACES, CADPIG frowns. She sees something is off. She stiffens. She stares right back at them, fierce, unblinking. She doesn't go for her KNAPSACK)
HOST
Once the votes are read, the decision is final. The person voted out will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I'll now read the votes...
FIRST VOTE
SONIC
SECOND VOTE
DODGER (doesn't count)
THIRD VOTE
DODGER (doesn't count)
FOURTH VOTE
DODGER (doesn't count)
FIFTH VOTE
DODGER (doesn't count)
SIXTH VOTE
TIMON
SEVENTH VOTE
TIMON
Tenth person voted out and the fourth member of our Jury...
TIMON
(Cut to the TRIBES' reaction. CADPIG cries out in joy, thankful that she didn't waste her Idol. WAKKO and SONIC are shocked, struggling to piece together what's happened. RITA seems terrified - realizing now she's been caught flipping. DODGER leans over to MARVIN, thumping him on the BACK. MARVIN doesn't respond. He glares over at TIMON, who is still gawking at the FINAL VOTE)
HOST
Timon, that's enough. Time to bring me your torch...
MARVIN
(To TIMON)
That was for Hopsalot. Don't forget to write...
TIMON
All right, THAT'S IT! You're not invited to my meerkat resort-
MARVIN
But it won't exist. You're not going to be a millionaire.
TIMON
(Too angry to speak)
I...I...I-
MARVIN
Goodbye Timon.
TIMON
Whatever! I'm done with you people!
(TIMON gets up and picks up his TORCH on the RACK. He storms over to the HOST. He has difficulty placing the TORCH on the POST because he's so short. Finally, he stares at the HOST, glaring at the FLAME)
HOST
Timon...the tribe has spoken...
(He puts out TIMON's TORCH)
Time for you to go...
(TIMON storms off down the HALLWAY, swearing under his breath, exiting the game for good. The HOST watches him wearily. Then he turns back to the OTHERS, managing a smile)
HOST
Well...after an unprecedented series of events tonight, we have our final six - Marvin, Cadpig, Rita, Wakko, Dodger, and Sonic - as well as one Idol out of play. Keep in mind: the Final Five is the last time that you can use a hidden immunity Idol. We'll have to see how that plays out. Grab your stuff. Head back to camp...
VOTE TALLY
RITA voted for DODGER (did not count)
CADPIG voted for DODGER (did not count)
WAKKO voted for DODGER (did not count)
SONIC voted for DODGER (did not count)
TIMON voted for SONIC
DODGER voted for TIMON
MARVIN voted for TIMON
CAT quit the game and did not attend TRIBAL COUNCIL
A/N: Two for the price of one!
I actually have a decent amount to say about these two characters, even given that they were more second tier than some of the others. I also kind of like that they went together, because it allows me to talk about their similarities as well - the fact that both of them were sort of similar in a way (not really likable, kind of polarizing, made some questionable decisions) but also had very different ends to their stories.
First off, Cat. In the beginning of the story, I'd be surprised if anyone liked Cat. I wrote him to be snobbish, annoying, and pretentious - but as the story went on, I think we saw a little more of his vulnerability. He didn't really trust people. In fact, I'd go as far to say that the only person that Cat ever really trusted was Dog - and look what happened there.
To me, Cat's motivation was always about validation. He wanted to be respected. He wanted to be a hero. He wanted to force the world to see him as somebody admirable, rather than a freakish cat who was conjoined to a dog and tormented for it.
When Dog sent home, I think that motivation was split two ways, which really gave Cat a lot of trouble mentally. On one hand, he wanted to redeem Dog by winning the game. On the other hand, he had to live with the fact that it was his fault that Dog left in the first place. Even though Cat was pretty unpleasant as a character, it's worth noting that he had some genuinely sweet moments. When he convinced Timon to flip to vote out Dot, I think his concern was coming from a very real place. Then there's his final action of giving up his immunity before he quit, which surprisingly enough, may have been the most selfless act in the story so far.
Really, Cat could've just given everyone the middle finger and left the game - but I think the fact that he was willing to give up his immunity to his friends before he left (and keep in mind, they'd never really even used the word "friends" to describe their relationship to begin with) says something positive about his character. As a whole, Cat's not really a character that I expected anybody would root for. I wanted his story arc to be polarizing, and I hope you were at least able to emphasize.
Timon was another polarizing one- which is why I'm glad I could talk about the two of them together. In terms of personality, Timon was actually one of the most fun characters to write. It's such a blast to write somebody that hypocritical who was constantly putting their foot in their mouth.
Timon was by no means perfect. In last few chapters, he did some pretty reprehensible things. Still, I think it's worth noting that Timon's decisions also came out of a genuine desperation to redeem himself - in his case to his family, particularly his mother. The whole incident with his Mom's letter really pushed him over the edge, and at that point, he may have wanted to win the game more than anything.
Like Cat, I also think it's worth looking at some of Timon's nice moments. In the beginning, Timon was actually really personable and well-liked by his tribe mates. It was only when he realized he looked like a coattail rider,and became frightened of the viewers would perceive him, that Timon started to become an overbearing train-wreck. Also, as evidenced by his final conversation with Marvin, I hope you can see that Timon actually has a lot of heart and genuinely wants to connect with people. He just doesn't really have the tools to make it work...
Anyway, we're down for the Final Six. Predictions and thoughts are always welcome. More to come later next week.
Also...be prepared for some very special visitors next episode. :)