Change is like the Wind
"Is that new lip balm?"
"I've been wearing the same lip balm since I got here."
"Hmm it's nice; I like it. Strawberry?"
"Thank you. No raspberry."
X-ray and Sunshine were sitting beside each other behind the library. After a quick kiss hello, they decided to just sit and enjoy each other's company. In case anyone comes around, X-ray had reasoned.
"So how did you end up here again?" X-ray asked her.
"Underage drinking. Some guys were fighting. One got charged when the other one got hurt and I was sent here for some reason. Ring any bells?"
"Yeah Yeah. I told you my story right?"
"When I first arrived yes." Sunshine remembered how all the boys had tried to get to know her and had taken turns telling their stories. Her favourite was Magnet's— mostly for the cute puppy.
"Why are you so polite?" X-ray asked after a while.
"Quoi?"
"What?"
"Sorry, it's French for what. I used to live next to this old widow when I was growing up. She practically raised me. She was really big on grammar and manners."
"Were your parents not around?"
"You can say that," Sunshine told him quietly, "My dad left when I was young and... my mom was busy. She would always leave me by myself, so the old woman took me in. She taught me the basics-plus a little French on the side. She would always let me read any book I wanted. She never objected to me reading the dictionary."
"Is that why you know so many big words?"
"Yeah. She was really stern, but sweet...till the end. I remember how my mom told me. She had said 'I'm gonna go out, don't burn the house down or I'll kill yea. Oh, and the neighbours came by. Something about that old hag next door dying in her sleep. Guess I'll have to get you a new sitter eh?'" Sunshine paused before continuing. "I had to take the bus in order to go to her funeral. Not many people showed up. My mom grounded me when I got home. I was twelve."
X-ray stared at her. A tear began to roll down her face. He reached over; cupping her face in his hand as he wiped away the tear with his thumb. She leaned in closer to him; her head resting on his shoulder.
"Don't cry, I'd hate to see you cry," he whispered.
She sniffed before replying, "You're so sweet."
"Better not let anyone else hear that, you know the guys around here eat that stuff up like vultures."
"Whatever you say, Napoleon."
"I remind you of Napoleon?" he asked without hesitation.
She nodded.
"Does that make you my Josephine?"
"Only if you want me to be," she whispered as she leaned in closer. Their faces were inches apart when a shot rang out, followed by Mr. Sir exclaiming that he had missed.
"Run!" Sunshine whispered quickly. The two teens ran until they were in front of the almost empty Rec Hall. "Go on ahead, I'll follow after."
"Where's my goodnight kiss?"X-ray gave her a pout and puppy dog eyes.
Sunshine rolled her eyes as she dragged him off into the shadows. After a satisfying kiss goodnight, X-ray left. When he was out of sight, Sunshine followed. She was close to the tents when she was grabbed from behind. She was pulled into the shadows. She squirmed until she felt a kiss on her temple. The grip around her loosened, allowing her to turn, to face X-ray.
"What's wrong with you?"
"I really want to walk beside you rather than ahead," he simply told her.
She smirked before yelling, "You're such a pig!" When he looked at her with wide eyes, she winked. Playing along, he exclaimed,
"Me? You're one to talk!"
The walk to their tents continued on much like that. Only when they had reach them did they scream,
"Goodbye loser!"
"Goodbye freak!"
They went to their respected tents to find their bewildered friends.
"What was that about?" Squid asked X-ray.
"Nothing, the bitch bumped into me," X-ray replied, trying his best not to smirk.
"Harsh bro."
"Shut up man."
In the girls' tent, Song raised her eyebrow at Sunshine.
"Care to explain?"
"The asshole looked at me funny."
"Don't you think that's a bit ridiculous?"
"No?"
"Guys!" Zigzag shouted as he ran into the tent, "Guess what I just saw!"
Nova slipped under the tent cover with an excited look on her face.
"You'll never believe what I just saw."
"What?" Both genders asked simultaneously as they moved in closer to hear well. Both Sunshine and X-ray looked extremely nervous.
"Nova and I were coming back from the Rec Hall see..."
"We had been playing foosball for an hour..."
"Coming back from the hall, we were walking past and..."
"In the shadows..."
"I swear you guys aren't gonna believe me..."
"We saw..."
"Barfbag was making out with Beauty!" the two said in chorus.
The boys' tent had mixed reactions. Armpit and Squid where whistling and cat calling, X-ray-for some reason- looked relieved, Magnet was shocked and grossed out at the same time, and Zero went right back to sleep on his cot.
"What a player!" Armpit hollered.
"No doubt, no doubt," Squid agreed laughing.
X-ray had recovered by saying, "Wow, that's a surprise."
Magnet-noticing his sarcasm-asked, "How'd you know dog?"
"Wasn't it obvious?" X-ray shrugged.
Zigzag noticed Zero on his cot. "Guess that's not exciting news to you, eh Zero?"
Zero remained on his bed; never moving so much as an inch.
The girls had similar reactions. Song was speechless while Sunshine raised an eyebrow whilst smirking.
"About time those two stepped up," Sunshine chuckled.
"That's just..." Song trailed off unable to find the correct words.
"Shush, I think she's coming!" Nova hissed. She climbed into her bed; trying to look inconspicuous. The other two simply rolled their eyes. However, the flap of the tent lifted to reveal a flustered, yet content Beauty.
Coughing, Beauty said, "Hey guys."
Sunshine grinned as she poked Beauty, "So you and Barfbag? Congrats girl!"
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Please, it's so freaking obvious. That and Nova saw you guys exchanging spit between the tents."
"I saw nothing! I know nothing and I heard nothing!" Nova exclaimed in a somewhat believable German accent. Sunshine rolled her eyes.
"You are mistaken, it was not me and By—Barfbag!"
"Well seeing as neither Song nor Nova has made a move yet on their guys, I'm single and no guys have come out of the closet, it's safe to assume it was you." Her statement received glares all around.
The girls heard hollering coming from the boy's tent. Sneaking a peek outside, they could see the boys—clad in their pajamas—gathered around Barfbag, high-fiving him. Song and Sunshine let out a groan, Nova face palmed and Beauty's face turned a bright shade of red.
Hearing the girls, Magnet looked over to them before waving. The rest of the group waved with him. Beauty quickly dived inside, the blush on her face darkening. Song rolled her eyes as she followed after her. Nova sniggered at Beauty, ducking under the flap.
By then, almost all of the boys had disappeared into their own tent, leaving X-ray outside. He smirked in Sunshine's direction, to which he received a wink. He returned to his friends and tent mates with a grin on his face.
"Are you guys gonna kiss?"
"No!" Beauty and Barfbag yelled from their respective holes.
"Why not?"
"Because we are not gonna kiss just for your amusement," Beauty huffed as she lifted her shovel over her head.
"We all know you guys have the hots for each other, so it should be no problem. No tonsil hockey though," Nova joked.
"Nova, shut up," Barfbag sighed just as the water truck came rolling down the road.
"Make me!"
"How about this," Beauty whispered to Nova as she lifted herself from her hole, "We'll make out in public when you and Zigzag do."
Zigzag, hearing only his name, looked up, "Who called?"
"Nothing! Don't worry about it!" Nova nearly shrieked earning her many sideway glances. Zigzag simply shrugged. The crew lined up for water without any further disruptions. Nova noticed how Barfbag's annoyance faded away when Beauty grabbed his hand. Nova was about to call out, but bit her tongue when Zigzag lined up behind her.
Nova had just been handed her water when Squid yelled out in fright. He was standing over one of the older holes, pointing inside it. Mr. Sir and the others ran to him. Stopping, Mr. Sir cursed out when a rattle sound was heard from inside the hole. A diamondback rattlesnake was coiled inside, his rattle shaking loudly.
The group let out cries of exclamation as they backed away from the hole.
"What are you pansies' worried about," Mr. Sir laughed, "He can't get us."
Just then, the snake shot upwards; his head nearly reaching the edge. Mr. Sir jumped up, reaching for his holster. He grabbed his gun, aiming it directly at the snake. Two shots were fired before the snake became limp.
The group was silent, except for Beauty's quiet whimpering. Barfbag wrapped his arms around her; trying to calm her down. The teens looked to one another, unsure if they should say anything. Mr. Sir finally let out a sigh,
"Damn Rattler. I hate this time of year; they're all over the bloody place."
The crew stood still until Mr. Sir ordered them to get back to their holes. When no one else reported any snakes, he left in the truck.
"That snake was fucking huge! Did you guys see that, it could have bitten me!"
"We know man," Armpit groaned, "Quit your bitchin'."
"It could have!"
Beauty was still sobbing quietly as she climbed into her hole.
"Are you alright?" Barfbag asked.
"Yea, I'm just shaken up, that's all," she smiled weakly. He smiled back, holding her gaze. When they didn't look away, Nova sighed.
"Romeo, where are yea?"
She glanced back at Zigzag, who had struck a dramatic pose as if he was holding something above his head.
"I'm right here Juliet, is thou blind?" Nova played along, bowing low.
Zigzag frowned, "Why am I the dame?"
"Because apparently, I'm Romeo. You started it."
Zigzag shrugged as he pretended to flip his hair back, batting his eyelashes. The two jokesters burst out into uncontrollable laughter, and were only silenced when Barfbag, Beauty, X-ray, Sunshine and Squid yelled at them to shut up.
Cool air was blasting throughout the Warden's home. The television was blaring with music. Chopping sounds were coming from the kitchen. A knock came from the front door. The TV was shut off as the Warden walked to answer the front door. Opening it, her frown deepened as she stared at the youth on her doorstep.
"You are late. Do you have what I need?"
"Yes Sir, I have it right here. This one was easy to bait, but it seems he isn't happy about being caged." Lifting the covered cage up, a small hiss was heard before a distinct rattle began to shake.
"Well get him in here before the whole camp knows!" She stepped aside to let the young man inside. He walked through her house, going directly to a closed door near the back.
"Now I want at least three bottles this time. My supplier has tripled his price again, which means I have to use a...homemade brand. Luckily for me, you happen to have dealt with snakes before. Your father was a smuggler, correct?"
"The best when it came to snakes," the teen muttered, "He taught me how to skin 'im, milk 'im and cook 'im."
"Lovely," the Warden rolled her eyes. "Remember to release him out back when you're finished and put the bottles in the same cabinet as last time. Hopefully, this one can blend in with all the rattlers that are coming here this time of year. I'll be in the kitchen."
Slamming the door to the small laundry room turned extraction lab behind her, the youth looked into the cage to see the miserable snake inside.
"Don't worry, you'll be let out in good time," he smirked a devilish grin.
"Then the student said, 'I can't, I speak terrible English'!"
The D-tent members roared with laughter. Their forgotten meals were cooling in front of them as they listened to Zigzag's latest joke. Armpit and Squid were laughing the loudest, the prior pounding his fist on the table. Nova had to stop laughing in order to breathe at one point. The laughter died down into soft sighs and chuckles. Song had been grinning until she noticed that Magnet hadn't been laughing at all.
"Are you ok?" She asked him quietly.
He shook his head, replying, "Just thinking. I need to go for a walk."
He stood up and walked out of the hall with his hands in his pockets.
"What's with him?" Squid wondered aloud, watching the retreating Hispanic.
"I don't know, but I'm gonna find out," Song pushed away from the table, following after him.
"As much as I would love to eat this food," Sunshine grimaced, pushing away her tray, "I need to go the tent."
When she had left, X-ray muttered something about taking a shower and swiftly left the hall. Squid glanced at Armpit before proposing a poker game—the winner gets the loser's shower tokens. High- fiving, they went in the direction of the Rec Hall. Zigzag wanted to watch the outcome of the game. Nova and he were placing bets as they ran after the two boys. Zero looked between Barfbag and Beauty before silently getting up and walking out of the hall. The couple glanced at each other. They grinned. Beauty dragged Barfbag out of the hall and into the shadow of the tents by his sleeve; a goofy grin was plastered over his face.
Song found Magnet walking outside opposite of the Rec Hall. She ran to catch up to him. He stopped when he heard her behind him.
"Do you wanna talk?" she asked quietly.
"Sure. But not out here." He walked over to one of the buildings and leaned against the siding. Song stood beside him.
"What is wrong? You know you can tell me."
He turned to face her, rubbing the back of his head. "Nothing really, I was thinking of home."
"Do you miss it?"
"A bit. I don't really want to think about it now. Distract me. Tell me something else that I can focus on."
Song thought about it for a minute before asking, "Did I ever tell you what went wrong with stealing that stupid Walkman?""
"No."
"I was walking home from school one day when a car filled with the popular kids drove beside me. They...threw water balloons at me, calling me...things I don't want to repeat. That's when my friend suggested that we get back at her. She would keep lookout while I broke into the cheerleader's busted locker, steal her precious Walkman and then we would throw it into the river near our school. The plan was full proof, until my so called friend betrayed me. It turns out that she wanted to be on the cheerleader's good side. She was the one who got rid of our friend and told the perra about our plan. I was arrested and brought here. My parents—mostly my dad- was...livid. My mom was-still is- in denial. My little sister has been using the time I've been gone in order to get my stuff. Everything my dad ever told me was about how much... d-disappointment I have brought my family. How he raised me to be better."
Magnet stood still, staring at Song. She sobbed as a tear rolled down her cheek. Song closed her eyes, but she could feel herself being pulled toward the thief. Comforting arms wrapped around her gently.
Song looked up at him; his hand holding her face while his thumb swiped her tears away. She buried her face into the crook of his neck while he held her, silently listening to her sobs.
"I hate this."
"I do too, but we can't go from despising each other to dating each other."
"I would hardly consider this a date."
"Do you see any movie theatres around here?"
"Point taken, Josephine."
Sunshine smiled as X-ray kissed her cheek.
"We should get going."
"Sir's not on parole yet."
"I heard him say at dinner how he will be out earlier because of all the rattlesnakes around here."
They exchanged a goodnight kiss before X-ray left in the direction of the Rec Hall. Sunshine followed shortly after. From outside the door, Sunshine could hear Armpit swearing in the less crowded Hall. She saw Squid shovelling shower tokens towards him while Armpit grumbled. Zigzag looked displeased as he handed a grinning Nova a few shower tokens. X-ray was watching from afar, nodding at Sunshine. Sunshine stuck out her tongue with the faintest of smirks.
The group left the hall; Armpit's pockets weighing less than before. Magnet and Song joined the group—her eyes were still red. When Sunshine gave her a concerned look, Song mouthed that she would tell her later. The crew had just reached the first tent down the line when Beauty and Barfbag stumbled out of the dark. Both had horrified looks spread upon their faces. Armpit, Squid, Nova and Zigzag all hollered and whistled at the mortified couple. Sunshine gave Beauty a sympathetic look. The rest ignored them.
Upon seeing their tents, both genders said their goodnights. Barfbag waved to Beauty, who looked disappointed.
"Aw, what the hell," he shrugged as he pulled her into a passionate kiss. The quadruple from before continued their catcalling. Barfbag ended the kiss, reaching into his pocket to pull out a piece of paper. It was a simple flower, folded from a corner of an old newspaper. Beauty blushed; thanking him.
"Anything for a beautiful girl like you." He told her as he kissed her hand. His face matched the shade of red on her face. He turned and walked inside without another word.
The other boys ran into their tent—hollering as usual- with Magnet waiting outside until all the girls had disappeared into their tent. He let out a sigh of relief. He didn't notice a shadow dodge behind the girls' tent.
Beauty danced around the tent with a big smile over her face.
"Someone is happy," Sunshine noted.
"Why wouldn't I? This is the greatest I've felt in years," Beauty sighed, "I have a boy who wants me for me and not my body. I'm far from my bastard of a step-dad. Sure, I could do without the holes, heat and horrible food, but otherwise, I'm so happy." She collapsed onto her bed, her feet dangling over the edge. She closed her eyes, sighing deeply.
A shuffle came from under her bed. A rattle was heard.
Oh my god... a snake is in the tent!
She sprung up in her bed, placing her feet flat on the ground. She was about the whisper what she discovered—trying her best to keep calm—when she heard a hiss and a slight swish of air.
The moment the serpent's fangs punctured her ankle, her unearthly screams echoed throughout the camp.
He could feel his heart literally stop when he heard her. There was no doubt that the screams coming from nearby were hers. Barfbag shot up from his bed.
All the boys in the tent stopped what they were doing, staring in bewilderment at the girls tent across from them. Hearing cries of alarm, they sprinted to the tent just as Nova ran out, the look of fear on her face made the boys pause.
"Beauty! A-a snake bit her!" she managed to utter. Barfbag's face turned to that of horror; he rushed inside before any of the guys could stop him.
Song was frozen with fear on top of her bed, staring at the sight in front of her. Beauty had fallen back on her bed; her eyes were closed, as if she had fainted. What was truly a sight was how Sunshine had managed to grab the snake by the back of its head, immobilizing it in the air. The snake thrashed and hissed, but Sunshine held onto it firmly. Barfbag remembered Beauty, immediately running to her bed.
"Don't move her!" Sunshine warned as the snake whipped its body in her hand again, "She needs to stay as still as possible."
Barfbag was unsure of what to do. He reached out to her, placing his hand on her head.
"Beauty! Open your eyes! Please don't be dead..."
She stirred, partially opening her eyes to look up at him.
"Lewis?" she whispered weakly.
"I told you Sophie," he told her quietly as his body began to shake, "Call me by my middle name, Byron. You know how I hate my first name."
Several footsteps were heard outside, followed by the Warden, Mr. Sir, and Mr. Pendanski rushing into the tent with a guard holding a box.
"Where in tar nation is the critter?" Mr. Sir yelled.
Sunshine held out the snake to him. He screamed in a rather high pitched squeal.
"Get that damn thing into the box," He scowled. Sunshine carefully placed the snake into the box; the guard closed the lid and left the tent immediately. The Warden lifted up a small briefcase onto the bed, opening it quickly. Inside, various vials and bandages were organized into the many pouches. The Warden took a vial, filled a syringe full of it and placed it on Beauty's arm. Byron watched as the needle was inserted, the liquid disappearing in a swift motion.
"Where the hell is that stretcher?" The Warden yelled as she withdrew the needle. Two more guards rushed into the tent, carrying a small, old looking stretcher in their arms.
"Get these two out of here!"The Warden ordered Mr. Sir as the guards went to move the incapacitated Beauty. Sunshine led a dazed Song out of the tent in silence. Byron stared at Beauty as Mr. Sir practically dragged him outside.
The group was waiting several feet away. Armpit, Squid and Zero wore similar worried expressions. Nova was shaking. Magnet ran to Song, taking her from Sunshine's possession. Barfbag was thrown roughly on the ground by Mr. Sir just as the guards carried Beauty out on the stretcher. Getting off the ground he took a step towards her, but was held back. Turning, he saw Zigzag and Armpit were restraining him.
"What are you doing? Let me go!" he screamed as Beauty was loaded into the back seat of a Ford truck with the Warden. Mr. Pendanski climbed into the front seat. She ordered him to drive.
"Sophie!" Barfbag hollered in pain as the truck drove outside the gate and into the night, "Sophie-"
"Barfbag stop!" Nova yelled at him sternly, with tears forming in her eyes. He ceased his struggling to look back at her. Seeing her expression, he broke down. Falling to his knees, he collapsed into sobs. Unsurely, Nova bended down beside him, wrapping her arms around him comfortingly. Squid ran his fingers through his hair while Armpit paced back and forth. Zigzag watched Nova before siting cross-legged in front of Barfbag, resting his hand on his shoulder. Song had moved away from Magnet and held Sunshine's hands as she looked worried. Mr. Sir walked to the group.
"Okay, I want answers, and I want them now. Start talking. What happened? You," he pointed to Song.
"We had come back from the Rec Hall, all of us—except for Zero. Sun—I mean Katrina, Nicole and I were sitting on our cots while S-Sophie was standing. She lay down on her cot, but immediately sprung back up. Before she could say anything, she screamed. The rattlesnake had bitten her ankle, but let go when she kicked it across the tent towards Katrina's cot. Sophie fainted, and Nicole ran outside. Katrina managed to get a hold of the snake before it could get away. Then Barf—Byron came into the tent and…yeah."
"So the snake was under her bed?"
"I believe so."
"Okay, next question. How in Sam's hell did you manage to wrestle down that snake?" His question was directed at Sunshine.
"Sir I…I-I honestly don't know. I think I heard someone discussing how one should hold a snake and that information sort of just stuck," she rubbed the back of her neck.
"Damn rights it did. Now, you" Barfbag looked up, "Quit your whining and tell me why you ran into the tent?"
"B-because I-I was worried about Sophie," he managed to choke out. Nova rubbed his back reassuringly.
"And you," Nova perked up, "Why did you run out of the tent?"
"I'm deathly afraid of snakes. Have been since I was five and I was nearly bitten by a water moccasin."
"That last bit is irrelevant," Mr. Sir rubbed his temples, "Okay you scum bags, here's what's going to happen. The girl is being sent to the nearest hospital as we speak- it is a good seventy miles away. The Warden has a vast amount of knowledge when it comes to snake venom, and she has taken a kit filled with rattle snake anti venom. There is enough in there to last the girl long before she reaches the hospital. You all are to continue with your regular schedules. You are not allowed to leave this camp to go after her, you are not allowed to bug neither the Warden nor I about her condition, go ask Pendanski that shit. Understood?"
The group slowly nodded. Mr. Sir left towards his office, leaving them outside. Barfbag managed to pull himself together enough to stop sobbing. Nova stood up while Zigzag offered his hand to the sad romantic. The assembly of youths turned to X-ray as he spoke,
"Well, you heard the Warden. Might as well wait till Pendanski gets back."
"So…we are just gonna do nothing?" Barfbag inquired, "Just sit on our asses and do jack?"
"What else can we do?" Squid reasoned.
Squid made a good point. He and Armpit were the first to leave for their tent, followed closely behind a slow walking Zero. Magnet walked Sunshine and Song back to theirs, with X-ray soon after. Zigzag motioned to the girl's tent. Nova declined, reasoning that she would stay to make sure Barfbag was well.
"No, we should go inside," Barfbag looked down at the ground, "It's...dangerous out here." Walking past the girl's tent, Barfbag thanked Nova for her support before she disappeared into her tent. When the boy's reached their own, the tent was silent. Zero, Squid and Armpit were already in their beds and X-ray and Magnet were getting ready to do the same. No one spoke a word to anyone, especially Barfbag. As their lights were turned off, they all drifted off into a light slumber much later than they normally would. The only one who stayed awake was Barfbag. He simply stared up at the ceiling until dawn—not even jumping when the trumpet was sounded.
D-tent walked to the library the next morning more sluggish than ever. It seemed no one had gotten a decent sleep the night before. All three of the girl's had red, swollen eyes. Magnet was practically leaning on his shovel when they had stopped to get a quick breakfast. Even Zero was moving more stiffly than usual. They were about to follow Mr. Sir out to their holes when the Warden stopped them.
"Good morning. I have good news about Sophie." A sigh of relief was heard from everyone. "She managed to arrive at the hospital in time to receive proper treatment and it looks as though she will pull through." The group cheered. "However, she will not be returning to us for a while. There is a sack load of procedures and paperwork that need to be done before she can return. Mr. Sir most likely mentioned this already, but under no circumstances are you allowed to leave this camp in order to visit her. Mr. Pendanski will be updated on her condition routinely, so any questions should be relayed to him. As you were."
The tent mates cheered and hugged one another in respite.
"That's great news," Sunshine exclaimed, "Isn't it Barfbag!"
"Yeah," he sighed sadly. They all gave him strange looks until he replied, "I would really like to visit her though."
Magnet put an arm around him, "Don't worry dog, she'll be back before you know it."
The horn from the water truck sounded. The misfits began their trek across the desert.
After a long day of digging, the tent crew met up at the Rec Hall—minus Barfbag who went to rest in the tent. Song was surprised to see the Rec Hall practically empty. Normally, there were at least three other tents including themselves trying to relax under the same roof. Sunshine took a seat on one of the couches with X-ray on the other end. Squid sat in a chair and Armpit sat on the other couch along with Zigzag and Magnet—who kept fiddling with his laces as they could not stay tied. Nova remained standing while Song leaned against the couch arm closest to Sunshine. Zero leaned against the pool table, rolling the eight ball in his hand.
"So…how is everyone," Song asked trying to make conversation.
They mostly muttered fine and okay. Silence followed. Eventually Sunshine sighed.
"Why are we so depressed? Beauty is well and in stable condition. She'll be returning soon."
"Beauty was one of us man," Zigzag explained, "And Barfbag has been like the walking dead all day. I kinda hate seeing him like this."
"Yeah," Nova agreed, "Both of them were so nice to me when I first arrived. They tried to include me in their conversations, even if I didn't want to at the time."
"They both were happy together," Song commented, "They-I don't know- made things happier around here, if that's possible."
"Even if it was only when they were sucking face half the time," Armpit shrugged. Nova and Zigzag glanced at one another before they snickered.
"What are you two giggling about?" X-ray raised his eyebrow.
Nova explained, "We always used to bug them whenever they made goofy eyes or silly faces at each other. It was sort of hilarious."
"Yea, what about that Romeo and Juliet thing?" Zigzag laughed.
The pair did a re-enactment of their skit, which seemed to lighten the mood in the room a little. Once the two sighed after rolling around on the floor laughing, the light mood slowly faded to what it was before.
"We should do something else," Squid suggested as he stretched.
"Like what…?" Armpit yawned.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd say you guys were suggesting we'd all go to bed early," Sunshine smirked.
"I got no sleep last night man, so I second the motion," Zigzag raised his hand.
"Where are we? In city hall?" Nova teased, which earned a light punch to the shoulder.
The four left the room yawning and waving goodnight. Once they were gone, Sunshine laid down on the couch, stretching her legs until her feet were resting on X-ray's lap.
"What are you doing?"
"What does it look like I'm doing? Now move."
"As if, I was here first. You move your stinky feet."
"They are not stinky. Unless you want to go smell Armpit's sneakers, then mine are nothing to complain about. Besides, have you taken a shower lately? Phew!"
"Why you-!"
"Take it outside you guys," Song sighed, waving her hand towards the exit. The duo stood, yelling insults at each other until the door shut behind them. Surprisingly, their insults died down once they were outside.
Leaving only Zero, Song and Magnet in the hall, Zero glanced between the pair. With a bored expression, he turned to go outside.
"Yo, where you going Zero?" Magnet called after him.
He turned back around—his face still neutral—as he pointed in the direction of the showers.
"Okay, see you later dog."
The door shut quietly behind him, leaving the two by themselves in the empty and quiet hall. Song was still sitting on the couch across from Magnet.
"So…have you heard from your family yet?" Magnet asked.
"No, not yet. I should expect one any day now," Song answered timidly. They sat in mutual silence
"Mind if I sit on that couch? This one is always lumpy. I think it's stored with enough crap to fill a hole."
Song nodded. Magnet sat down in the middle of the couch. He began to twiddle his thumbs.
"Is there something on your mind?" Song asked curiously. He held his breath, making his cheeks look puffed up until he exhaled loudly.
"Nah, not really…I mean… maybe…yes," he sighed.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Song raised her eyebrows as she sat down beside him.
He paused for a second, rubbing the back of his neck. He glanced at her as she waited patiently. "No, it's nothing now that I think about it." He stood up and stretched. "I should go to bed." He went to turn towards the door when Song stood behind him.
"Wait!"
He turned, but his loose laces were tangled again. He stepped on a lace and tripped forward onto Song.
"Ah, shit I'm…" Magnet opened his eyes to realize he was inches away from Song's face. He had landed on top of her on the couch. Her green eyes met his brown ones. They could feel their warm breath against each other's lips. For a moment, both remained completely still. Before Song realised, Magnet had jumped up, muttered a quick apology and left her alone in the Rec Hall by herself. Sitting on the couch once more, she sighed.
What was that about? And why do I feel so shitty about it? He could have kissed me. Did I want him to kiss me?
She sat with her thoughts for another minute before shots were heard outside; alerting her that Mr. Sir was now on patrol. Exiting the hall quickly and quietly, she made sure not to slam the door behind her.
"You have to tell me, how is she?"
"And I have told you for the last time. She is fine but not enough to come back. Now vacant this office this minute Lewis before I call the Warden."
Barfbag left the councillors office without any further prompting. It was late at night, meaning that there were less people around. As he stalked off back to his tent, Barfbag could not stop thinking about Sophie.
I wonder how those doctors are treating her. Is she getting enough to eat? Is she lonely?
He walked past the main gate, where two guards armed with rifles watched him from under the rims of their hats.
No way will I be able to get out that way. I can't go during the day; too many people around and that sun would kill me. I can't sneak out at night either; it'd be too dark and the lizards would kill me.
He walked past the showers and the library.
I wonder if her low life step father has visited.
The thought made him stop in his tracks. Sophie had told him—after they had arrived at camp— about her stepfather and what he had done to her. His blood began to boil in his skin.
He is probably thinking of his next get money scheme while she's defenceless like that. God, why wasn't I there to help her?
He was about to walk into the light to go to the tent when voices were heard from around the corner. Pausing, he heard Squid, Armpit, Zigzag and Nova talking through numerous yawns. Nova was chuckling at something Zigzag had told her when the two reached her tent. She wished him a good night, smiling shyly. He winked at her. She gave him a sharp punch in the arm and stuck out her tongue. Holding his arm dramatically, he waved goodnight to her as they both disappeared into their tents.
Watching them, an idea popped into Barfbag's head. It was a crazy idea. It was a stupid idea. It was the only plan he had though.
I'm coming Sophie, he thought as he made his way to the opening, I'll be there soon.
"Your acting skills are amazing."
"Oh thank you. I pride myself on being a great actress. It has come in handy more than once in my life."
"Today would be a good example."
"At least you knew my cue. That's always the hardest part whenever you are improvising with someone else."
"No kidding. Your nails are nice."
"Pfft, I haven't even scrubbed the dirt out from underneath them, but thank you nonetheless."
X-ray and Sunshine were sitting behind the library; X-ray had his arms around Sunshine as she leaned her head against the crook of his neck. They sat in silence before Sunshine whispered,
"I do hope Barfbag is doing okay."
"He seemed alright today."
"Did you not see how much of a zombie he looked? My hole was right beside his and he couldn't go a minute without sighing or sulking. He wasn't even done half his hole when I was."
"Guys don't tend to talk about their feelings, haven't you realised that? They tend to…close off the world around them and sort out their own problems."
"That doesn't sound healthy."
"Way life works."
Sunshine frowned. "If he does something stupid though…"
"Barfbag isn't that dumb…at least I'm pretty sure he isn't. Don't give that look; I assure you nothing will happen."
"Promise you'll look out for him?"
"Promise."
She smiled as he held her tighter, giving her a kiss on the forehead. They helped each other up and began walking back towards their tents.
"Why do you think he'll do something stupid anyway?" he curiously asked.
"People do crazy things when they're in love," she reasoned as she shrugged. Sunshine stopped him when they were by the Rec Hall and she had seen Zero walk outside. Glancing back at him, she whispered, "Showtime."
The next day was scorching hot with it being 102 degrees Fahrenheit. The water truck made two trips in order to fill the bottles of the thirsty. Everyone moved around slower than normal, as not to overheat. That didn't stop the conversations however.
"Why you gotta be like this man," Zigzag began cursing at the sky, "Won't you have mercy and give us some rain?"
"Quit yelling at the sky," Squid told him, "You're scaring it."
"Yo, shut up man."
"Water," Armpit gasped, holding out his water jug, "Water!"
"You have a full thing of it dude," X-ray exhaled.
"It's warm man!"
"Quit your bitchin'," Squid groaned, "Or I'll shove it-"
"Get back to work, you useless criminals," Mr. Sir yelled at them, holding up a shotgun. He had been ordered by the Warden to be one of the guards who would overlook the tents as they dug. Each one was armed with a rifle, in case they saw anymore rattlesnakes. The silence was only temporarily.
"Nova," Zigzag sighed weakly, "tell me a story."
"What kind of story?" she raised her eyebrow
"Anything to get me not thinking about this heat."
"How about…once upon a time there was this yeti that lived in the Himalayas."
"Where the heck is the Himalayas," Armpit yelled from his hole.
"In Nepal, by China. They are the highest mountain range on earth, "Sunshine answered.
"Why that yeti live up on a mountain?" Magnet called out.
"Because it was the only place he could live," Nova shovelled some dirt, "He was covered in fur, so staying in a desert was a bad idea. At least he was able to roll around in the snow all day."
Zigzag leaned against his shovel, "That's a good story."
"Oh yea," Mr. Sir groaned as he walked past Zigzag's hole, "Such a pretty story. Get back to work!" Once his back was turned, Zigzag made numerous faces and rude gestures, earning a chuckle from everyone around him. No one seemed to notice that Barfbag was the only one who remained silent.
He had lifted his shovel and dumped his remaining dirt out of the hole. He leaned against the edge, sliding down until he was on the ground. He was silent as he listened to his fellow 'campers' scrap at the dirt around him and converse—Barfbag paid no attention to what they were actually saying.
If this works, I'll be with Sophie in no time. I have to protect her this time. I have to.
Standing up again, he heard the faint sound of a rattle being shook. A rattlesnake was curled up no more than a few feet in front of him. He looked around to see that Mr. Sir was walking farther away from him, with his back turned. The other guard was on the other side of the cluster of holes. The campers conversations started to make more sense
"Get that straight, get that straight," X-ray told Armpit after he was done explaining something to him.
"Let me tell you why we're burning up out here man," Zigzag commented, "It's global warming."
"The hole in the ozone is directly above my head," Armpit said as Barfbag jumped out of his hole and slowly took off his shoe, revealing his white sock.
"Dude, the hole is in your head," Magnet joked, earning him a laugh from the others. Barfbag stood up and began walking slowly towards the reptile-its rattle became louder. Song was the first to notice him walking, but her view of the snake was obstructed.
"Barfbag?" she called out.
Squid, noticing what she was talking about, called out to him, "Barfbag!"
"Hey Barfbag, whatchu doin'?" Armpit stopped digging.
The others started calling out to him, pleading him to stop. He continued without a pause.
"Hey Barfbag, that ain't funny man," Magnet said concerned, "stop playing man, get back, Barfbag for real!"
"Don't do something stupid, stupid," Nova yelled in distress.
X-ray watched in silence, simply staring at Barfbag and the snake. He knew instantly what he was planning. Sunshine's words appeared in his head.
People do crazy things when they're in love.
By then everyone was calling out to him, yelling and begging him to back up, but he didn't. He had pointed his foot at the snake when X-ray finally yelled,
"Barfbag!"
The snake sprung, catching his foot in its mouth. Barfbag let out a deadly scream. He saw the snake, and then next he saw the sky. Darkness followed shortly afterword's, with the screams of his friends fading away.
The rest of the day was a blur for Song. After Barfbag had collapsed, Mr. Sir carried him to the water truck—he ordered the others to stay where they were and if they left, he would feed them to the lizards- and drove in the direction of camp. Everyone remained co
completely still until Nova's knees buckled. Zigzag ran to her.
"Nova? Nova, are you…?"
She was shaking. Tears were forming in her eyes.
"Why," she cried, "Why did he do that?"
Zigzag placed his hand on her head, rubbing it softly. The others began to gather around her.
"Come on Nova," Song urged, "Get up hon." She helped lift a sniffling Nova back to her feet.
Sunshine walked straight over to X-ray.
"Why didn't you do anything?" she inquired angrily.
"What could I do?" X-ray answered, crossing his arms.
"You should have done something, idiot," she yelled, pushing on his chest. He fell to the ground with a thump. Looking up at her, her expression was more disappointed than angry. "You…you promised me." She looked at him a final time before she stalked back off to camp.
"Hey, where you going?" Squid called after her, "You heard Mr. Sir!"
"I'm done my hole and frankly, I don't give a damn if he punishes me!" she answered him; not turning back. Song was about to go after her, when Magnet grabbed her arm.
"I wouldn't do that, you're not done digging. I don't want to see you punished too."
She glanced back at him before he let go of her. She stood still for a moment before she ran back to her hole. Song began feverishly digging at her hole, throwing dirt out her hole every few seconds. The others left her to dig; walking back to their own holes. Pretty soon, Song was done her hole and was running towards camp.
"Hey X–ray," Armpit called from his hole, "what was that whole fight about with Sunshine?"
"Yeah man," Squid asked, "What'd you promise her?"
"Nothing," X-ray muttered.
"We can't hear you," Zigzag teased; leaning his ear towards X-ray.
"I said it was nothing!" he shouted in to Zigzag's ear. The teen stumped in shock. "I'm heading back too, he proclaimed.
Watching their friend storm off, the others looked to one another; uncertain about what would happen next.
"Change," The Warden began her announcement. She paced in front of the entire camp that evening from the porch of the Rec hall. "Is like the wind. It is, because change can happen at any time and can come from any direction, similar to the wind. And all of you are probably wondering did I get that out of one of Mr. Pendanski's self-help novels? No, no I did not." The response from the crowd was mostly snickers and whispers. "A once wise man told me that. I believe change is good. Due to recent events, I am implementing several new regulations. First, an armed guard will overshadow tents while they work, due to the recent increase of rattlesnakes in the area. Second, under no circumstances is a camper allowed to approach any snake. Run like hell if you meet one and watch where you step. No camper is allowed to dig after dark until rattlesnake season is over. Any unfinished hole will be left till the next morning and will be completed before you can begin a new one. From now on, tents will be placed into group counselling sessions with Dr. Pendanski once a week at seven for an hour. A-tent will go on Monday; B-tent will go Tuesday and so forth. The girls in the camp will have their meeting on Saturday. These sessions are mandatory and failure to show up will result in punishment. If you do not follow the above implications, you will be punished. Understood?"
A loud chorus of 'yes sir!' was heard before the Warden left the platform and the crowd began to disperse. D-tent—minus Sunshine and Song, who immediately left for their tent-met up with one another beside the porch.
"Warden's cracking down hard," Armpit grunted, rubbing his neck.
"Not surprised," Squid commented, "Two bitten campers in less than three days? She must be feeling the burn."
"Will you both shut up?" X-ray hissed, before facing Nova. The girl was staring at the ground sadly.
"I'm okay," she spoke softly; "I'll be fine."
Zigzag walked to her, "You can tell us if something is wrong."
"Nothing is wrong. I'm going back to the tent; the girls will probably wonder where I am." No one objected to her leaving. When she was out of earshot, X-ray warned,
"It's best if we leave the girls alone for a while."
"What?" Zigzag exclaimed, "They need our support."
"No, they need each other. Girl's deal with certain issues differently than guys, so let them take care of it with each other."
"When did you become the girl whisperer?" Squid elbowed the leader.
"Shut up, just keep your distance. The girls will come around when they're ready."
"I don't like this. What do you think Magnet?" The crazy one turned to his friend, but the latter was staring off into the distance. "Earth to Magnet!"
"What?"
"You don't like X-ray's plan, do you?"
"I don't care, whatever. I'm going back to the tent too." Magnet began walking in the opposite direction. Zero silently followed after him; staying two paces behind him. Zigzag—frustrated—fell to the ground with a thump.
"What the hell is happening around here?"
"That's a good question dog," Armpit hummed.
"Well whatever it is, I don't like it. I can understand what the girls are going through but Magnet? He's more spaced out than Zero is."
"I think the Warden was wrong when she said change is good," Squid agreed.
"I got this feeling guys," X-ray looked off onto the fading horizon, "That things are going to really change around here."
Super long chapter for you guys. I did have it done up until the Warden's speech, but it got lost in my documents and I didn't find it until I was on vacation. The next chapter should involve some more scenes from the movie, I just have to get a hold of a copy so I can watch it a few times.
Leave me a lengthy review guys, I live for them.
Have an awesome summer!
~RiddleGirl7