Look who's here, if it isn't Captain Bystander. Enjoying the view from the bottom, as usual?
You've changed so much! How have you done it?
smirks Oh, you know, just a little makeover and a whole lot of attitude adjustment. But hey, don't worry about me, sweetheart. I'm living my best life.
Good to hear. I hope you find what makes you happy, Ethan.
Oh, believe me, darling, I found exactly what makes me happy. And it's not some cheesy pick-up line or a fake smile. It's the knowledge that I outsmarted all the fools like you. leans closer So, tell me, how does it feel to be on the losing end of life's game?
He smiles. Still better than high school.
laughs mockingly Still better than high school? Well, congratulations! I guess that makes you the king ofmediocrity. But hey, don't sell yourself short. Maybe you'll actually find some success in life after all. Who knows?
shrugs Anything is possible. Your turn. Ask me something.
You wake up tomorrow morning with a newfound sense of purpose and determination to finally achieve your dreams. Option B: You wake up with an epic case of bedhead and spend the whole day wondering where your mojo went. Choose wisely, my friend.
I think I'd prefer option A.
Ah, finally someone who can recognize a good joke when they see one. So, what's next for Captain Bystander?
probably becoming who I always wanted to be. Finding love, finding success. I don't know, maybe I'll even travel. There's a whole world out there, after all.
rolls his eyes Travel? Seriously? Come on, Fleming, we both know you can't handle anything outside of your comfort zone.
Would you like to come with me?
smirks Oh, please. Like I would waste my time on one of your failed adventures. I've got bigger things to attend to, like ruling the world.
See you around then. At least you're in a better place than this gym.
<Despite their initial animosity, Ethan and Fleming eventually become friends and embark on a world trip together>
Was there ever a particular reason you picked on me? You certainly didn't do it because you hated me. I mean, look at us now.
rolls his eyes Oh, come on, Captain Bystander. Do you really think I was picking on you because I wanted to be friends? Please, spare me the naive fairy tales. I picked on you because it was fun. And let's be honest, you were the perfect target. Always trying too hard, never fitting in. But hey, you know what they say, "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em." So here we are, two peas in a pod, traveling the world and proving all the haters wrong. Isn't life wonderful?
Yeah, yeah, whatever you say. Here, take my picture by that pretty waterfall over there.
holds up his phone, takes the picture Sure thing, Captain Bystander. I'll make sure to tag you in it so you can cherish this moment forever.
See? Not so bad, being a nerd after all. We've even been hired as tour guides. You got any plans for our birthday next month?
raises an eyebrow Birthday plans? You really think I'm gonna waste my precious time celebrating your meaningless milestone? Sorry, Captain, but I've got bigger fish to fry.
Oh c'mon, besides everything we've been through, I spent years making you how you are today
smirks Oh, I see. So now you're taking credit for my success? How generous of you, Captain Bystander.
I'm saying if it wasn't for me, you might still be getting beaten up in the halls every day
pauses, reflecting Yeah, I guess you did have a hand in shaping me into the person I am today.
puts his arm around Fleming's shoulder Alright, alright. If it'll make you shut up, how about I plan a little surprise birthday party for you?
Alright, Captain Bystander, buckle up and get ready for the most epic birthday bash of your pathetic existence!
frowns, seeing someone bullying another kid Excuse me a second
follows Fleming over to the bullying scene Hey, buddy, mind your own business. Can't you see you're bothering him?
Say, Ethan! Can you believe this punk? He thinks he can threaten me again just 'cause we used to be enemies? What a loser! punches the bully in the jaw and walks away
a private yacht on a sparkling lake, surrounded by beautiful people, gourmet food, and endless champagne. And of course, a live band playing all your favorite songs. What do you say, Captain? Ready to celebrate in style?
Sounds good to me, spits out mouthguard and throws it on the floor Hope Mr. Hippy over there enjoys his cheap-ass birthday present.
takes out his phone I'll start inviting our friends right away.
while you start to text everyone, I walk over to the guy you punched. Listen pal, unless you want to give Mr. Perfect here a black eye, you'll leave that kid alone. Got it? the bully stares at me angrily, then nods. Good, because my ex-bully best friend over there wasn't kidding.
nods towards the bully Looks like someone learned their lesson. Now let's get back to planning your epic birthday party, Captain Bystander.
Of course! slaps the bullies ass before walking back to you and winking at you.
We need some killer entertainment! How about hiring a DJ to spin some sick beats? And I'm talking about the kind of music that'll make you want to dance like nobody's watching. What do you say, Captain?