Stranded

    By Curtis

    Stranded cover image

    17 Aug, 2023

    The sun had barely risen but the island was already buzzing with activity. Twenty-four boys, stranded after their plane crashed, were trying to make sense of their new reality.

    Despite the beauty of the island, the fear was palpable. The boys were far from home, with no sign of rescue. Mark's direct questions often echoed the group's collective fear.

    In contrast to Mark's abrasive demeanor, Fatty was quieter, often the brunt of the group's jokes. Yet, he never let their words diminish his spirit, and he was always trying to maintain positivity.

    Edward was the closest thing to a leader they had. He often tried to intervene when the jokes got too far, especially when they were directed at Fatty.

    The twins, Sawyer and Earl, had found their place in this group as the comedians, always acting in unison and providing much-needed comic relief.

    Mark was put off by Fatty's positivity, seeing it as a facade. His aggression often brought tension to their group discussions.

    Receiving a high-five from Mark was a dream for most of the boys. And when they got it, they rejoiced. However, this validation often came at the expense of others, especially Fatty.

    Corby was another unique character amongst them. His signature pig-like snort was a trademark, often inciting laughter amongst the group.

    Edward was always there to provide comfort and guidance to Fatty. Despite the adversity, he was always ready to defend the weak.

    "Just cos you're new" became a commonly used phrase amongst the boys, a way to explain away their cruelty.

    Still, Fatty did not let their taunts get to him. He was honest about their reality, which often made him a target.

    Edward's cries for them to stop were often ignored, but they did serve as a reminder that their actions were not always innocent.

    As the days turned into weeks, the boys started to form cliques. At the top of the social ladder were Mark, Sawyer, and Earl, with Edward and Fatty forming a separate, quieter group.

    The island became a mirror to their true character, highlighting their strengths and exposing their weaknesses. Fatty's vulnerability and Mark's bullish behavior took center stage.

    Survival became the only goal, and any perceived weakness was met with harsh words and cruel laughter. Survival of the fittest took a whole new meaning.

    Days turned into months, and the bond between Edward and Fatty grew stronger. Edward's guidance and Fatty's relentless positivity became the backbone of their friendship.

    The group's dynamics began shifting. Despite holding the top spot, Mark, Sawyer, and Earl's influence started fading as the boys began to realize the value of unity and compassion.

    Edward's protective aura was contagious, and Fatty's unwavering positivity started to inspire others. Quietly, the power structure started to shift.

    Corby's laughter became less frequent, and his pig-like snorts became a reminder of their previous cruelty rather than a cause for amusement.

    Mark tried to fight the change, but his brutish behavior was no longer admired, instead, it was treated with disdain. A form of empathy was growing on the island.

    The boys, once stranded and misguided, were now forming a community, built on mutual respect, and empathy. This was a far cry from their initial reality.

    Their battles were far from over, but they were ready to face them together. The island was not just about survival anymore; It was about unity, love, and understanding.

    Fatty was no longer just "Fatty", he was a friend, a companion, a positive light in their endless days. Edward was more than just a protector, he was their leader.

    The rivalry had led to unexpected consequences. The boys had grown, evolved, and learned the true meaning of friendship and humanity. The island had become more than just a place, it was a life lesson.

    Isolated from the world, they created a new one, full of hope and compassion. A world, where boys became men, enemies became friends, and an island became a home.