To Blindside, Or Not To Blindside

To Blindside, Or Not To Blindside is the fourth episode of Survivor: Comoro Islands - Champions and Contenders.

Night 9
The camera cuts to a shot of dark clouds passing over the full moon.

Candy: That was a tough one.

Returning to the Vailheu camp, Candy is quick to hug Mallorie first, and then Carter.

Carter: You’re good.

Candy: Thank you. Thank you, both. That was hard. I don't know how you get used to that.

Mallorie: It's hard but it's the game.

Candy: I know.

Mallorie: You did what you had to, you didn't do anything wrong.

Candy: I know. Thank you.

Mallorie: I told you I'd have your back, girl. I repay my debts.

"vailheu"

- Watching Eli go home like that...it was difficult, to say the least. I'm a bit of a people pleaser, myself. We'd all really connected during our short time on this beach and having to betray him and say goodbye to him like that, knowing how much this game was his dream to play...it's not fun, especially considering we saved Lisa to pull the move off, and she doesn't seem especially grateful for her second chance. But I do love this game a lot and I feel I've been given a second chance too. I respect the game too much and so I know I have to learn to harden my heart a little, and get used to being more cutthroat if I want to survive. Tonight, as far as I'm concerned, had one positive outcome and that's that it has solidified the bonds of trust between Carter, Mallorie and I. I strongly believe that us three as a trio can depend on one another and I hope that's a constant moving forward.

Candy sinks into a seat close to the fire and lets out a big sigh, rubbing the back of her neck.

Candy: I hated seeing the look on his face like that.

Carter: It wasn’t easy. Don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s a game. Eli knew that.

Lisa is scooting back into the shelter, massaging her feet.

Lisa: Why’d you do that?

Carter glances nervously at her.

Carter: It was him or Candy tonight.

Lisa: I was never even an option?

Carter: We thought you had an idol.

Lisa snorts derisively.

Lisa: You idiots actually bought that? I wasn’t even trying to fool you.

Carter stammers, then shrugs.

Carter: Better safe than sorry, I guess.

Lisa rolls her eyes.

Lisa: [shrugs] I wish I could’ve been in the know too, but it is what it is.

"vailheu"

- [gestures with surprise] ...I must be, like, a Mensa genius mastermind or something. A lie that I never even really meant to tell ended up saving me in this game and I didn't even realize it! I'm just that good. I walked into that Tribal Council having completely given up on my game and I walked out of there unscathed, without a SINGLE vote cast my way, and I barely had to try. Am I good, or what?

Lisa: If I’m here another day, then I’m here another day. Whatever works, you know? I’m just glad to be here. I’m interested to see what’s next.

Mallorie regards her with a cold look as Lisa lays back in the shelter, hands behind her head.

Carter chuckles a little uncertainly, eyes flitting back and forth between the two.

Carter: ...Crazy Tribal.

Mallorie: You’re telling me.

"vailheu"

- Blindsiding Eli over Lisa was not without risk, but I stand by the move. I only hope keeping Lisa around won’t bite me in the butt, but judging from what I know of her and her gameplay thus far, I can safely say that I really don’t think she’s capable of something like that. I can tell Lisa's bitter about being on the outs so long, but that's nothing I haven't faced before. I took care of Felicity my season before. I can handle Lisa too, because even Felicity was playing a better game than her. I WILL win this war between Lisa and I.

Mallorie chews on a toothpick as she continues to watch Lisa in the shelter with narrowed eyes and a wary, almost predatory gaze.

Day 10
The next morning, on the Pamanzi tribe…

Elmer is taking a walk through the woods, peering behind his shoulder after every few steps to ensure he isn’t being followed.

With him is his bag, which he has slung over his shoulder.

Elmer: Making sure no one's tailing me...I've had enough of that my last season…

He stops by the shade of a large tree and digs around in his bag, pulling out the idol he found the other day.

Elmer unwraps the idol and kisses it tenderly.

Elmer: I can't tell about this to nobody, not even Kelli. This is my little secret, just me and the Survivor gods. [laughing]

He bends down to bury the idol in between the roots of the tree, covering it up with a heavy rock.

Elmer: Thank you, Survivor! I promise to use it well.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu beach…

Carter, Candy and Mallorie are eating breakfast around the fire, chatting and smiling.

Candy: And that’s when he shot me in the back of the head, and won the game. I was so [censored] pissed.

Carter: [laughing] What a betrayal. Seriously?

Mallorie: Damn. Your games sound more cutthroat than Survivor. [laughing]

Candy: I know, right? That legendary moment was clipped so many times on stream, people still reference it to this day. I was so close to winning that match too…

As they eat and laugh together, the camera cuts away to Lisa, off in the distance, heading down a path into the woods.

"vailheu"

- Even today, waking up this morning, still in the game, it’s hard to process and realize that...I’m really still here. I honestly, like...I didn't even think I'd still be here and was totally prepared to be eating a cheeseburger right about now, but now that I am? It's lit a fire under my ass. These people don't want to play with me? They want to leave me out of the vote not once, but twice? That's fine. They'll all get what's coming to them, mark my words. Even if I have to exact revenge on my own, Lisa Rosenbaum WILL be their downfall. I don’t need their votes to make a move. I’ll make a move of my own, and I’ll show them I’m not just a pretty girl. Mallorie may be Queen Bee, but I’m an Ice Queen. You don't cross the prettiest girl on this beach and expect not to get burned, bro!

Lisa is shown checking inside tree stumps, scouring the forest for the idol.

She recoils and cringes everytime she has to crawl around in the dirt, squealing or reacting with disgust whenever an unsightly insect appears and grunting whenever she pushes her way through thorny bushes or climbs up rock formations.

Back by the fire, Carter glances around curiously.

Carter: Where’s Lisa gone off to?

Candy: She’s not down by the beach?

Carter: Not in her usual spot.

Mallorie: Maybe she’s looking for the idol for real this time.

Carter: Should we follow her then?

Mallorie: I don’t have time to babysit her. Besides, she’ll never find it.

Carter: Why, do you have it?

Mallorie: I wish. I’ve been searching for ages but clearly, it’s somewhere I’ve never looked.

The camera cuts back to Lisa, who is still on the hunt, squealing as she slides down a small muddy slope.

Mallorie: It’s probably good that she’s gone. Today, we solidify...this.

Carter: This?

Candy: Us three, you mean.

Mallorie: I think this could be the Final Three, you guys.

Candy: You really think so?

Mallorie: It may be hard to get us all to the end, but I really want to try. I have complete trust in both of you.

Candy: Aww. You too, Mal.

Carter: I’m down.

Mallorie: The three of us to the end?

Candy: For sure. If we go back to Tribal Council or we get another chance…

Carter: Lisa goes.

Candy: I’m not wavering on that.

Mallorie: Me neither. This trio right here...we’re good.

Candy: We’re good. [nods]

Even as the three continue to smile and talk and strengthen their new Final Three deal, Lisa is still looking, now crawling around the bushes too.

Lisa: [sighs] If I were an idol...where would I be…? I don’t got a [censored] clue, do I?

As she is wandering around aimlessly, she glances up into the trees and stops in her tracks upon spotting a small, almost imperceptible package tied to a branch.

Lisa: Is that...[censored]? Oh, come the [censored] on.

She stands at the base of the tree, scowling up at it.

Lisa: How the [censored]...I gotta climb up there?

She sighs, slapping her hands against her bare thighs.

Lisa: Well...at least now I know none of them have it. Stupid…[censored]...

Moaning as she does so, she gingerly plants one foot on the tree trunk and inches her way upwards, reaching out for the idol clue with a long hand.

Lisa: [grabbing package] Thank [censored] I did gymnastics…

She drops back down and begins to unwrap her package, revealing the idol clue inside.

Lisa: Congratulations, you have found the clue to the hidden immunity idol. Blah blah blah...I went through all that, and it’s not even the [censored] idol itself? Brilliant. What else is new?

She reads on.

Lisa: At your next immunity challenge, you will be stacking blocks atop a disc, attached to a series of ropes. Tied to the bottom of the disc is the hidden immunity idol. In order to retrieve it, you need to be daring. Are you bold enough to secure safety for yourself in the game at the risk of exposing it to the rest of your unsuspecting tribemates? The decision is yours.

Lisa pinches the bridge of her nose with dissastisfaction.

Lisa: Damn it…

"vailheu"

- So I find the idol clue. That’s great. Great news! But now I need to go get the stupid thing...potentially in front of my entire tribe...at the next challenge. ...That’s not cool. That’s really scary to think about. I just know that, given that I can be clumsy even at the worst of times, I’ll probably drop it in front of everyone and expose myself. [blows raspberry] But...my tribe all hate me anyway. So perhaps it doesn’t matter if they see me getting it. Maybe it’ll force them to turn against themselves again like they did to Eli. No matter what, I know that I put in too much work this morning to find this stupid clue, so I’m not leaving that challenge without getting the dumb idol.

Meanwhile, back on Pamanzi...

Randall is sitting with Constance and Kelli in the shelter.

Drew and Bridgette are out in the water, having an amicable conversation.

Elmer returns, just as Kelli grabs a banana from a pile near their belongings.

Kelli: Want one, Elm?

Elmer: No thanks. I'm good.

Kelli giggles as she peels hers.

Kelli: You don't know what you're missing out on.

She winks devilishly and chortles to herself as she pretends to stuff half of her banana into her mouth. Constance harrumphs, but smiles serenely.

Constance: That's so wrong.

Kelli: Elmer loves it, doesn't he?

Elmer: No comment.

Randall raises an eyebrow, watching them banter back and forth.

The camera cuts to Kelli slapping Elmer’s bicep flirtatiously, laughing with a big smile on her face as Elmer finally gives in and takes a big bite of her banana.

The camera cuts to Randall and Kelli having a conversation by the well, later in the day.

Kelli: You wanted to talk?

Randall: Yeah. I wanted to preface this by saying you’re smarter than most people give you credit for. That’s why I wanted to approach you about this.

Kelli: Okay. I’m listening. [giggling]

Randall: I think that...it’s pretty clear to most of the tribe that you and Elmer sorta...have this thing going on between you guys.

Kelli laughs this off airily, biting on one of her fingernails as Randall refills her water canteen.

Kelli: I wouldn’t put it like that...we just like each other’s company, that’s all.

Randall: Be that as it may, you two are practically joined at the hip on most days. I think it gives certain people cause for concern because they don’t know what your gameplan is with him. Because I think you’re a smarter player than most people would give you credit for.

Kelli: Yeah?

Randall: Yeah. I’m hoping that you’re not naive enough to not realize that...being associated with Elmer, it’s going to be a death sentence.

Kelli: I’m aware that people could perceive us as a pair. But we’re really not trying anything shady like that. We’ve not even talked about a Final Two deal or anything. We just like each other’s company.

Randall: From what you’re saying, it sounds like you’d be alright with it if he’d be the one going first?

Kelli: I mean, I’m not saying I’d like it or advocate for it, but I’m not stupid enough to go against the grain if that’s what the whole tribe wants for our first vote. But I’m pretty sure our first vote will be Constance.

Randall: And if it’s not Constance, but if it’s Elmer? Would you write his name down?

Kelli: If it came down to it and I had to vote with the majority, then, yes. I’m not laying my life down for him even though we hang out with each other a lot. It’s a game. [shrugs]

Randall: It’s just that I genuinely believe you’re hurting your game, by being so close with him. Because everyone can see it, and you’re gonna become a target by association.

Kelli: I hear what you’re saying, and I get that. But I’ve got it. You don’t need to worry about me.

Randall: I’m just saying, that you’re a strong woman, and you shouldn’t need to have to attach yourself to or hide behind a guy just to have some agency in the game. You’d be fine standing on your own.

Randall reaches out a hand and Kelli smiles, bumping it in return, but she pulls a face when he turns his back on her and he can’t see.

That afternoon...

Jeff: Come on in, guys!

In come Mwali and Pamanzi, smiling with excitement and confidence.

Jeff: Mwali and Pamanzi getting your first looks at the new Vailheu tribe…

Hazel tiptoes to see over Maverick's shoulder. Kelli glances curiously as the four remaining Vailheu members march in.

Jeff: Eli, voted out at the last Tribal Council.

Elmer nods, mouth twitching.

Bridgette: Interesting…

The Vailheu tribe stands on their mat as Mallorie firmly plants the tribe flag in the dirt.

Jeff: Alright! Constance, it's been more than a week since this adventure began. What's it been like for you, living with the same people for this long and never needing to attend Tribal Council?

Constance: It feels nice. Our tribe has become not unlike a little family. Yeah, we have our own petty little quarrels and squabbles like in every other family, but that's nothing out of the ordinary.

The camera cuts to Elmer squinting and Randall looking down at his toes as she says this.

Constance: Not having to attend Tribal has definitely boosted morale on the Pamanzi beach, no doubt. We're at peace...loving life, and grateful to have held our own in these challenges so far.

Carter: Sounds almost like they're on vacation, Jeff.

A couple people snicker.

Constance: I can't argue with that. [chuckling]

Lisa, hands on her hips, rolls her eyes.

Jeff: Kelli, you feel the same way?

Kelli: Yeah, sure I do. But we are all here to play Survivor. At some point, the vacation starts to feel...drawn out. It's a good thing to avoid Tribal Council, of course. But there's also an itch we're begging to scratch. Kinda like...when do we get to play? We're waiting! [laughing]

Candy pouts at this statement. Blake watches her with a twinkle in his eye.

Jeff: Maverick, what about life on Mwali? Peachy?

Maverick: For sure. We have our ups and downs but we're still here and still thankful for every day.

Hazel: Hear hear!

Jeff: Agree with that, Keira?

Keira: [shrugs] Yeah.

Jeff: You look apprehensive. Why is that?

Keira: Because this line of questioning has me worried that...things are about to change.

Jeff: Really? How so?

Blake: I smell a swap coming, Jeff.

People start to grin.

Jeff: Do you?

Blake: [grinning] Prove me wrong, Jeffrey!

Jeff: You are, unfortunately, correct. Everyone, drop your buffs!

There is a collective explosion of varying reactions. A few people groan, gasping and squeal, while others are smiling more earnestly, quietly celebrating, or cheering.

Elmer: [grinning] Seriously?

Markus: Wow.

Drew: Damn, that was fast.

Randall: Only three Tribals in? What?

Blake: [laughing] I told y’all.

Hazel: No way, I don’t want it! [giggling]

Carter smiles sheepishly, shaking his head as he tugs off his yellow buff.

Jeff: We are switching tribes.

Lisa: [muttering] Finally, [censored] yes.

She tosses her buff off her head quickly.

"vailheu"

- Hearing Jeff tell us to drop our bluffs, it took everything in me to not shriek, spit in my buff and toss it into the sand where it belongs! I almost wanted to rip it in half. I am so done with Vailheu...so done with Candy, Carter and Mallorie…! I just want to get away from them and this toxic tribe who clearly want me gone and just get as far away from all of them as possible. I needed a tribe swap so bad. Get me the [censored] off this tribe! [laughing] Get me outta here and with some new peeps!

Elmer kisses his red buff before promptly tossing it into the sand. Hazel takes a big whiff of hers, smiling before throwing it away.

Hazel: Bye bye, Mwali. I'll miss you…

Maverick: We might all still be together, you never know.

Jeff holds up a tray full of covered buffs.

Jeff: Take one buff and do not reveal it until I say so.

He walks up to the Mwali tribe first and holds out the tray as people grab buffs off it.

Maverick: Can I go last, Jeff? Picking last has helped people before. I kinda wanna let fate decide my new tribe for me.

Jeff: If it’s what you want. Very well, Maverick will pick last.

Markus is breathing out through his mouth, turning his new covered buff over in his hands, licking his lips.

"mwali"

- When I heard Jeff say those three magical words…"drop your buffs"...I was ecstatic. I was jumping for joy on the inside because being on the bottom on the Mwali tribe, it's like living on tenterhooks day by day, because I'm never certain that I'm safe and I'm never comfortable about my position on the tribe. Now that there's going to be a shakeup, I'm ready and excited to get away from Mwali and hopefully meet some new people, who might be a bit more willing to play ball with me.

Jeff is now moving onto Pamanzi. Elmer is grinning, closing his eyes as he chooses a buff at random, as Randall rolls his eyes at him.

Jeff makes his way to Vailheu, as the remaining four pick the tray clean, save for one final buff, which Jeff tosses over to Maverick.

Jeff: Alright. End the suspense, and reveal.

The castaways excitedly tear open their new buffs.

Blake straightens out another blue buff.

Blake: I’m still blue.

Keira: Same.

Hazel: Yay, blue power! [laughing]

Maverick snickers, seeing them three with blue buffs, holding up his own red one.

Maverick: Told you you’d stay blue.

Jeff: A lot of Pamanzi staying together…

Sure enough, on the Pamanzi tribe, everyone is staring around and checking out each other’s new buffs. Four of them are holding up new yellow buffs.

Bridgette: Wow, did we all get yellow…?

Drew: What are the odds?

Randall: You have to be kidding me.

Constance is the only one still holding a red buff.

Constance: Oh...bye, guys.

Kelli reaches up to hug Elmer, clutching her blue buff in one hand.

Kelli: I’ll miss you.

Elmer: You too. Stay strong.

The Vailheu four is splitting up too. Candy is hugging Carter, then parts to hug Mallorie as well.

Lisa is awkwardly grabbing her things, walking over to the Pamanzi mat.

Candy: Good luck…

Mallorie: You too. Be careful of her.

Candy: I know.

Carter: See you. [hugs]

One by one, the castaways disperse and move onto their new mats.

Constance: Welcome. [nervous laughter]

Maverick: Alright.

Maverick gives Constance a friendly embrace, as Markus lurks behind them both, waiting to introduce himself too.

Hazel: Hi!

Carter: Hey, nice to meet you. I’m Carter.

Hazel: I knew that already.

Carter: Right, yeah. [laughing]

They hug in greeting as Kelli moves to shake Blake’s hand.

Bridgette squeals and opens her arms wide as she moves to hug Mallorie.

Bridgette: Omigosh, heyyy!

Mallorie: Oof. [laughing] Hey, Bridge. Looks like we’re on the same tribe again.

Bridgette: I know, right? [laughing] This is gonna be so fun…

Mallorie: Elmer, hi.

Elmer: Hey. [hugging Mallorie] Nice to officially meet you! [laughing]

Soon, everyone has settled down, more or less.

Jeff: Alright, let’s assess the damage. On the new Mwali tribe, we have three original Mwali in Blake, Keira and Hazel…

Hazel pretends to cheer, waving her hands excitedly. Carter smiles wryly in her direction.

Jeff: ...one original Pamanzi, Kelli…

Kelli puts one hand on her hip, nodding.

Jeff: ...and one original Vailheu and one Contender, Carter.

Carter folds his arms over his chest, swallowing with a smile.

Jeff: On the new Pamanzi tribe, we have one original Pamanzi member in Constance…

Constance smiles a little nervously, swiping at strands of her hair blowing in the wind.

Jeff: ...two original Mwali members and one Champion, Markus and Maverick…

Maverick is grinning cheekily, busy pulling his new red buff over his head and around his neck. Markus nods seriously, glancing at him and chewing the inside of his cheek.

Jeff: ...and two original Vailheu members, Candy and Lisa.

Candy holds up two peace signs. Lisa licks her lips, tugging at the red buff she is now wearing.

Jeff: On the new Vailheu tribe, we have one original Vailheu member and Contender, Mallorie…

Mallorie smirks.

Jeff: ...and FOUR original Pamanzi members, with one Champion and one Contender each, in Bridgette, Elmer, Randall and Drew.

Bridgette beams, looking pleased. Elmer chuckles, putting an arm around her shoulder playfully. Randall is crossing his arms, swaying from foot to foot, giving Elmer a sideways look.

Jeff: Mallorie, you’re now in an interesting position. You’re now a minority of one on a tribe with four people who have all been playing this game together since the beginning. How do you feel about that?

Mallorie: It is a little daunting and definitely surprising, to now still be at my old beach, but also be stuck with...basically, being the sole original Vailheu member up against a majority of four original Pamanzi. But it’s not all bad. After all, I don’t know what the relationship dynamics are like with these four. It could still work out in my favor. Plus, I got my girl Bridge back…

She wraps an arm around Bridgette’s shoulder and squeezes playfully, as Bridgette laughs.

Mallorie: So that’s cool. Um...and our guys all look pretty strong, so I’m holding out hope that this tribe swap didn’t work out too badly despite the way the numbers may look on paper. It’s Survivor, after all, and nothing’s ever always as it seems.

Randall makes a face at that, smirking as he sways from side to side, hands planted on his hips. Drew glances nervously between him and Elmer.

Jeff: On the flip side...Constance.

Constance: Yes, Jeff?

Jeff: You went from being on a dominant tribe to losing...all your original tribe members, while still staying on the same beach. How does that feel?

Constance: I admit, I already miss my Pamanzi family. We were very close after being together and winning so many challenges. But...I think the main thing I feel is...excitement. I’m excited to meet my new tribemates and get to know these new people and learn about who they are and what they’re like. This is a social game, after all, and I am mostly glad about this, no matter how worrisome it might seem to start with.

Candy smiles at her.

Jeff: Let’s move on over here to Mwali. Blake - you, Hazel and Keira are all still together, with one person from each of the other two tribes joining you. What’s your take on how the swap panned out for you?

Blake: Like with the others, I’m excited to get to know and meet our new tribemates. Even if things go south, which I hope they don’t, I still have two original tribemates with me so it’s definitely not the worst case scenario. I think everyone’s just excited to get back into it and see how the game changes from here.

Jeff: Alright. The game has, indeed, changed again...and who knows how these new swaps will shake things up? Head on back to your new camps, and get to know your new tribes.

Hazel pretends to cheer, giving a half-hearted whoop as Blake laughs and pats her on the back. The three tribes move to grab their belongings and turn to go back to their respective camps.

The camera zooms in on Candy as she walks off with her new tribe, Maverick chatting with her as they go.

The new Mwali tribe is returning to the Mwali beach, and the trio of original Mwali are leading the way back up to the tribe shelter, as Carter and Kelli follow in their footsteps.

Blake: Welcome to Mwali, you two!

Carter: Thanks. [laughing]

He shakes Blake’s hand as Hazel hugs Kelli.

Kelli: Excited to be here! [giggling]

Hazel: This is our shelter. It’s not much, but it’s home.

Carter: We’re definitely not complaining.

"mwali"

- Making it to the tribe swap feels like a mini-milestone. Winning the game is obviously the main one; making it to the merge is another. Surviving to the tribe swap, at least, is one stepping stone on the pathway to the end, and as a fan of the game, I’m excited for the tribes to be shuffled! All things considered, I think I was very lucky to still be on the same tribe with two of my former tribemates. I would’ve preferred that the Family all stay together, but keeping Blake while losing Maverick isn’t terrible. And Keira’s cool too. We just need to stick together, and decide what to do with our two newcomers. Kelli’s gorgeous, and she looks composed and fun and flirty to be around! And it’s funny, that now our Mozambique returnee has been replaced by the OTHER Mozambique returnee, Carter.

Blake: So what are your names? Well, I mean, obviously Carter, we know who you are.

Carter looks a little embarrassed, scratching the back of his neck.

Kelli: [raises hand] Hi, I’m Kelli. [laughing]

Hazel: Hey, it’s so good to meet you. So how was Pamanzi like?

Keira: Must’ve been nice winning all those immunities, right?

Kelli: Oh yeah, definitely. We were living a good life on that beach. [giggling]

"mwali"

- It was only this morning that I was still talking with Elmer and the rest of my original tribe on Pamanzi, and now, all of a sudden, I...find myself all alone? Like...now I’m the only member of Pamanzi on my own, with four new people? ...That’s so scary, seriously. I basically have to...start this game all over, and play with four strangers, three of whom have been on the same tribe since the start, and the fourth is a returning player. Plus, I’m coming from Pamanzi, the most dominant of the three tribes in winning immunity challenges. That puts a target on my back! I’m just going to have to talk to everyone, form connections with my new tribemates. I definitely want to pick Carter’s brain and see if he has a plan for us both to survive being on this new tribe together. I’m nervous but...I’m optimistic that I have to make it past this so I can reunite with Elmer on the other side.

Carter: What was Mwali like for you guys?

Blake: Oh, we were a pretty calm tribe. Not a whole lot of drama, to be honest with you. The Erin vote was unanimous so no real feathers ruffled.

Carter: Yeah? I wish I could say the same.

Blake: You had drama?

Carter: This girl, Lisa, she’s...she’s quite the character.

Keira: Really?

Carter: She’s no strategic threat, or anything. She’s just...messy. She should’ve gone home last night, but we...decided to keep her around for now.

Keira: You sound like you’re already regretting that decision.

Carter: I don’t want to look back. I’m just gonna keep looking forward. But yeah, we had some drama on our tribe.

"mwali"

- With this tribe swap, I am now the only returning player on the new Mwali tribe. I kinda wish I was with another...you know, maybe Mallorie, because we were both aligned on Vailheu, or even Markus, because he’s a familiar face? I could’ve used another veteran for camouflage because otherwise, I stick out like a sore thumb amidst these newbies. [laughing] But like I told the others, I don’t look back and I try to let go of lingering regrets and “what-ifs”. I’m looking straight ahead and I’m gonna make the best of this situation. It’s definitely tricky because I’m on this tribe with four new people and no past allies but Survivor changes on a dime. Just because it looks bad for me on paper doesn’t mean I can’t make it out of this alright.

Later, Carter and Kelli are talking in the water. He looks over his shoulder to where the Mwali trio are talking in the shelter as Keira cooks up a batch of rice.

Carter: Looks like it’s just you and me, and all three of them.

Kelli: I know, right? Dude...definitely a dicey scenario to start off with, having three Mwali altogether and only you and me. You think they’re gonna stick to their original numbers?

Carter: Oh, it’s likely. I’d wish they wouldn’t but it’s risky. I think we’ll need to talk to them more to try and get a hold of their relationships first.

Kelli: And if they keep their numbers, then…?

Carter: One of us would be in trouble. [laughing]

Kelli: Ugh, that would suck! I would hate for a stupid swap and bad luck to be the end of my game.

Carter: It’s not the end of the world yet. We just have to wait and see. I’m hoping their trio isn’t that tight or strong to begin with…

"mwali"

- I’ve only just arrived on this beach and I’m still getting to know the three people from Mwali. I haven’t yet discovered any cracks there, since I don’t know them all that well so far, but I’m hoping over the course of the next few days, I’ll be able to get one or two of them to want to work with me, and then I can keep my head safe from the guillotine should we end up going to Tribal Council as a new tribe. In the case that they don’t want to play ball, however...it’d be really bad news for me and Kelli. I think they’d come for me first. I am a veteran, after all, and this tribe was the tribe that sent home the first veteran in Erin, so I know they’re not playin’ around. If it really comes down to me and Kelli, then...I’m sorry, Kelli. I still don’t really know you all that well yet either, but I’d have to throw you under the bus if it’s you or me, because I want to survive! [laughing] She was an original member of Pamanzi, who still have all their people in the game, so that’s one argument I could make. But for now, I’m going to have to play it by ear, and work out just how to navigate this new tribe and these four new people. There’s a safe way out of this, I’m sure. I simply need to find it.

Meanwhile, on the Pamanzi beach…

Constance is sitting with her four new tribemates, now the sole original Pamanzi member in the shelter.

Constance: My name is Constance Reid. I’m a retired actress.

Candy: Whoooa, really?

Markus: That’s cool, what did you act in?

Constance: Old sitcoms back in the day. And I was quite good, if I do say so myself. No, I’m kidding. [laughing] But I was good.

The camera focuses on the look on Markus’ face as he listens to the others talk.

Maverick: You feeling alright, buddy?

Maverick snickers as he pats Markus on the back.

Markus: I wish I wasn’t still the only returnee, you know? But…[laughing]

Candy laughs too, patting him sympathetically on the arm.

Candy: This’ll be fun! New tribe, new beginnings, right? [giggling]

Lisa: I certainly hope so…

Constance: I can show you ladies the water well, if you’d like.

Candy: Sure!

The three girls leave, and Maverick moves to sit inside the new shelter, staring up at Markus.

Maverick: So. Looks like we’re still together.

Markus: For sure.

Maverick: Thoughts on the swap?

Markus: I don’t know. If we’re sticking by tribal lines, it could mean that Constance is the swing vote between…

Maverick: Between us and the two Vailheu ladies?

Markus: Yeah.

Maverick: If that’s really what it comes down to, I think we’d be in luck. As guys, we probably both have more to offer in terms of challenge strength than either Candy and...whatever the second girl’s name is, I forgot. Lucy?

Markus: Lisa.

Maverick: Lisa, right.

Markus: We need to stick together, because if we don’t have each other…

Maverick: We could both be targets.

Markus: Exactly. You get my drift.

At the Pamanzi water well, Constance is ladling water into the girls’ canteens, as Candy and Lisa stand on either side of her.

Constance: So, what do you two think of the boys?

Candy: I’m nervous. Like...Markus is a huge threat, isn’t he?

Constance: He is.

Lisa: I just think they’ll both be helpful in challenges. I’m sick and tired of losing.

Candy: Same…

Constance: What was life like, back on Vailheu?

Candy casts Lisa a nervous glance. Lisa ignores it, twirling a strand of her pink hair around her pinky.

Lisa: It was...interesting, to say the least. Quite frankly, I shouldn’t even be here right now.

She laughs heartily and Constance joins in, looking oblivious to Candy’s awkward discomfort.

Constance: What were your two returnees like?

Lisa: About exactly who you’d expect, from television. Carter was a lot less fun than I thought he’d be.

Candy: I don’t know. He’s cool.

Lisa: Sure, you’d say that. But he seemed so lively on Mozambique. I thought he’d be more like that this time around the way he was with Christine. But he’s so stiff this time.

Candy: I don’t think he’s just here for a showmance and a good time like he might’ve been on Mozambique.

Lisa: And Mallorie, ugh...don’t even get me started. I understand why she was so unpopular back then, in Seychelles. That girl is seriously bossy.

Candy: She was still the closest contender for the win on her season. That says a lot.

Constance smiles a little stiffly, eyes flitting between the two girls.

Constance: Girls, I just hope I’m not the obvious target on this tribe.

Candy: What? No, why would you say that?

Lisa: Yeah, we only just met you.

Constance: It’s just, I worry. I haven’t been to Tribal Council yet, and I was from the most dominant tribe and now I’m the sole member still left here and there’s two pairs. I worry that makes me an easy vote, if you wanted to vote based on tribal lines and lessen Pamanzi numbers, since all six of us are still in the game. What’s more, if you vote based on strength too, I am the scapegoat because I’m the oldest castaway...

Candy: Don’t even say that. There’s still time to get to know everyone! I honestly haven’t even started thinking that far ahead yet. I think we as a tribe still need to get to know each other and bond first beforehand.

Lisa: Yeah, like...we only just arrived on this beach.

Constance: Well, that’s comforting to hear. Thank you, ladies.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu tribe…

The four Pamanzi members are gathered around the shelter as Mallorie dumps her belongings on the ground. Bridgette is already squealing and hugging her as Mallorie laughs.

Bridgette: Seychelles represent! [laughing]

Mallorie: Hehe...Seychelles represent, indeed.

She pats Bridgette on the back as they part.

"vailheu"

- [squeals] Me and Mallorie are back on the same tribe again! Obviously, I knew we were competing on the same season again but having her on the same tribe as me once again is definitely evoking some nostalgic memories for me. We were on the same tribe throughout our first season and were never apart for thirty-eight days! Thirty-eight days on Seychelles, we spent together! And now the dynamic duo is back together. [giggling] I am a bit nervous that we’ll be seen as a pair again like we were before, especially considering everyone will have already seen how close we are. And maybe it’s not smart of me to be so open about how excited I am to reunite with her. She and I are playing different games out here, and she’s had to form brand new relationships with other people like I’ve had to. But putting all that aside, it’s nice to have another friend. This tribe swap went pretty picture perfect, in my book. I’m still with majority of my original tribe members, most of which I’m already working with, and now there’s Mallorie too. I think I was blessed to be put in such a really good spot, out of sheer luck.

Bridgette: Can you guys believe we’re all still together? The chances of it happening…

Drew: It’s not that unbelievable, but yeah, it’s definitely still pretty funny.

Randall: Hey, I couldn’t believe it. It’s luck of some kind, for sure...

Bridgette: Four of the six of us, still together...and now we got you, Mallorie!

Mallorie smiles wryly.

Mallorie: Regardless, I’m happy to welcome you four to Vailheu.

Bridgette: We also have the most number of veterans in the game now.

She points at Elmer and Mallorie in turn.

Elmer: Oh, you’re right. Good catch.

Drew and Randall share a look.

Bridgette: This is gonna be so much fun! I seriously think we’ve got the strongest tribe of the bunch.

Mallorie: You four have been on a real win streak anyway, which I really hope transfers to this tribe too. I could use a break from Tribal.

"vailheu"

- As close as I’d gotten to both Candy and Carter on Vailheu, there’s no dancing around the fact that...as a tribe, we sucked ass in challenges. But Pamanzi has been killing it and have never been to Tribal Council yet, so having four of them now might not be as bad as I’d initially thought. We’re the only tribe with more boys than girls, our boys look strong and Bridgette and I can hold our own too. I have high hopes that now, I’m on a tribe that can pull its weight in these immunity challenges. And I’d like to take a break from the stress of Tribal Council. Let other people sweat it out for once. The Queen Bee needs a moment of peace to herself for once. [chuckling]

In the woods, the camera cuts to Bridgette and Mallorie taking a walk.

Bridgette: I seriously am still shook. I was hoping we’d get to meet up again eventually, I wasn’t expecting it so soon. I was worried one of us wouldn’t make it far enough for us to reunite.

Mallorie: I know, it’s very cool. This is our second season together. Crazy how far we’ve come from the beaches of Seychelles, right?

Bridgette: Yeah, totes! Remember Meisie? Seuntjie? Felicity?

Mallorie: Oh, wow. Memories…

Bridgette: The nostalgia is hitting me hard right now. You never forget your first time…

Mallorie snorts with laughter.

Bridgette: So tell me about your tribe. How was Vailheu like those early days? You guys went to two out of three Tribals.

Mallorie: Tell me about it. It wasn’t fun.

Bridgette: How’d things go?

Mallorie: We may have voted out two men first, but it’s this girl, Lisa...hoo, boy. She gets on my last nerve, and then some.

Bridgette: Really? Mal, why are you always getting into fights with other girls?

Mallorie: I do not.

Bridgette: We just brought up Felicity. Need I bring up Sasha too?

Mallorie playfully shoves Bridgette into a tree and Bridgette cackles.

Mallorie: [laughing] Very funny, Bridge. Look, okay, I fought with lots of people, let’s be real. People expect me to be one thing and get upset when I reveal I’m another entirely.

Bridgette: [laughing] True. Never change.

Mallorie smiles wryly.

Mallorie: No, but this is different. Everyone dislikes her. Carter doesn’t like her. Candy wasn’t fond of her. She was just...annoying. She’s the laziest person I’ve ever met across two seasons of Survivor. Weak around camp, never did any chores, never talked much outside of flirting and suntanning…

Bridgette: Wow…

Mallorie: We all had our issues with her. She was a whiner.

Bridgette: You’re not gonna like Randall much then either.

Mallorie: Which one is that again? The guy in the beanie?

Bridgette: No, the glasses. He’s a bit of a whiner himself.

Mallorie: I can tune out the whining. It was being dead weight that really irked me about Lisa. But never mind her. She’s out of my tribe, and out of my mind. Tell me about yours.

Bridgette: You’d think Pamanzi would be peaceful, considering we won every immunity challenge.

Mallorie: But you weren’t.

Bridgette: But we weren’t. It was mostly Randall and Elmer going at it.

Mallorie: What, like, vying for leadership?

Bridgette: Not so much that, but rather, they just really don’t like each other. They’ve just never been able to get along. The rest of us are kinda caught in the middle of all that. It’s quite awkward.

Mallorie: I can imagine. How well do you get along with Elmer?

Bridgette: He’s a good guy. We get along, he’s really friendly. Some might say, a little too friendly…

Mallorie: Why is that?

Bridgette: He and this girl named Kelli, they’re kinda a thing…

Mallorie: Really? [shakes head] You’d think Elmer would’ve learned his lesson by now, knowing how his first season panned out with his old flame, Penny…

Bridgette: I suppose not. Though to be fair, Penny and Kelli are vastly different women…

"vailheu"

- Having an immediate connection to Bridgette is both a blessing and a curse. It’s great catching up with her, of course, and it’s also great to know I’ll be sharing this adventure with her a second time. Playing with someone on your first season and sharing that experience the second time...it’s really special, and it forms a bond with that person that’s hard to break. Furthermore, it’s advantageous in that Bridge is very readily spoonfeeding me all this information about her old tribe and their dynamics that are helpful in helping me figure out how best to proceed in this game, knowing what I now know. Especially since I’m now on this tribe with four of the six Pamanzi, knowing all I can about their original tribe dynamics is more important than ever. For instance, now I know that...Randall and Elmer aren’t fond of each other. That’s interesting. Elmer and this girl Kelli are also hooking up. Gross, and frankly a dumb boneheaded decision on Elmer’s part, considering I thought he was smarter than that to keep it in his pants, but also a good piece of information to hold onto. I’m storing all these nuggets of info in the back of my head, and whenever they become relevant, I’ll bring them out into the light again, and make use of it. The part of having Bridgette as an easy ally a second time that’s a curse is...the fact that everyone knows it. Everyone has seen us play together on Seychelles, everyone’s seen us align and become friends on TV, and everyone knows we made it to the Final Four together in a solid alliance. We are both going to be outed as a pair pretty obviously if we don’t find some way to keep it on the down low.

Later in the afternoon, Bridgette and Elmer are rendezvousing at the well.

She gives him a quick hug, both of them all smiles.

Bridgette: This is good! This was a good swap for us.

Elmer: You think so?

Bridgette: Of course. I think we are set. No matter which way we go, we’re golden. I know I have Mallorie, obviously. And should we lose an immunity challenge...

Elmer: We have Randall as an easy vote.

Bridgette: Yeah! You’re good. See? Things will work out.

Elmer: So how do you want to play this?

Bridgette: I think...you and I can be part of two alliances. We can have one group that stays Pamanzi-strong…

Elmer: Right…

Bridgette: But I think it’s more prudent too, for us, as the three veterans on the tribe, to stick together.

Elmer: You, me and Mallorie, versus the two of them?

The camera cuts to Randall and Drew sitting by the fire.

Bridgette: Yeah. Of course, the best case scenario is just staying away from Tribal. But if we don’t...then if it has to come down to them, we can send Randall home.

"vailheu"

- This tribe is very interesting to me. Because you’d think, given there are four of us from original Pamanzi and only one person from Vailheu...the four of us have the obvious majority. And it’s very easy for us two to simply approach Drew and Randall and say...hey, let’s not be idiots and throw away the numbers. Us four can take out Mallorie easily. She’s a massive threat in this game, she has a lot of experience, she almost made it to Final Tribal Council and would’ve won her season had she not faltered at the very end. And we take out another original member of Vailheu. But there is also another option. And as wary as I am of Mallorie’s threat level from watching her play before...I think I like this option more. And it’s joining in this new veterans’ alliance that Bridge is proposing, of her, myself and Mallorie...against the two newbies. Because with one Champion already out of the game, I don’t want to have to share Erin’s fate. Veterans are outnumbered out here. We need to stick together to survive. We need each other for camouflage, at least, for as long as possible.

Mallorie is now approaching from down the path.

Mallorie: Hey, you two.

Elmer: Hey. We were just talking about you.

Mallorie: Yeah, what about?

Bridgette: How would you feel about us three? I know it’s pretty obvious, but on this tribe, we might need this.

Mallorie: What, us three as an alliance of veterans? Enough said. I’m down.

Bridgette: I hate the idea of leaving our former Pamanzi tribemates out in the cold, especially Drew, because he’s such a nice guy. But it’s a game, and I think as veterans, we need to stick together more than we need to stick to our original tribal lines.

Elmer: Plus, Randall’s out for my blood. I know Drew’s sticking with him too. It’s best we nip that in the bud before he makes the merge because I don’t need one more person coming after me when it’s not convenient.

"vailheu"

- Being the sole member of Vailheu still on this tribe, I’m in no position to say no if an alliance is offered to me, and I don’t have a lot of options right now. Bridgette wants to pull me into a trio of veterans, consisting of the two of us and Elmer, and I’m good with that. Since the four Pamanzi could easily come together and decide to take me out for being the obvious outsider and with the reputation as a Contender that I have, having an alliance of convenience with two other veterans is my ideal course of action. I think Elmer’s a huge threat in this game, and was honestly most wary of him of all five other returnees when I first stepped onto the mat this season, but that’s something to be tackled down the road. I don’t need to deal with him right now. I just need to survive and make it to a position where I can reunite with Carter and Candy. So if I have to work with Bridgette and Elmer for now, I’m more than happy to, no matter how aware I am of Elmer as a player in this game. If that means targeting one of the other two newbies, then so be it. You want Randall gone first? Done. You want Drew? Whatever. I’ll say yes to anything until I’m more comfortable with where I stand in this tribe of five. But I’m going to sleep with one eye open for every night that passes that I’m on this tribe, outnumbered by this foursome. I may be in my homebase on this beach, but I’m not guaranteed safe.

The trio put their hands in the middle of their little triangle.

Bridgette: Veterans, on three. Quietly! [giggling] One, two, three…!

The three of them whisper “Veterans” in a soft cheer and throw their hands up slightly in the air. While they’re grinning at one another, the camera cuts to Mallorie casting Elmer with a suspicious look all the same, and then to Elmer glancing at her warily out of the corner of his eye when she moves ahead of him.

Day 11
The next morning, on the Pamanzi tribe…

Constance is stooping her head down low to reach into the shelter, shaking a groggy Lisa.

Constance: Lisa? We’ve made breakfast for you.

Lisa groans, waving her off.

Lisa: Five...more minutes…

She goes immediately back to snoring.

Constance: Don’t take too long or the rice will-

Lisa: Mmph! Gimphe mfe mphore fhime…

She swats Constance’s hand away. Looking insulted, Constance stalks off. Candy raises an eyebrow and shoots Maverick an incredulous look, while the two men share a look as well.

Lisa is soon fast asleep once more.

Maverick: She’s a heavy sleeper, huh?

Candy: Tell me about it. She snored every day on Vailheu like you would not believe. She told us all she needed her mandated nine hours of beauty sleep or she’d get wrinkles.

Maverick chuckles.

Lisa finally rouses herself from sleep, as Maverick and Candy leave to soak in the water and chat.

Lisa: What’d I miss?

Markus: Hm? Oh, not much. Hungry?

Lisa: Starving.

He hands her her coconut shell of rice, which she takes gratefully.

Markus: We haven’t had much of a chance to talk in private since we swapped.

Lisa: Yeah, no kidding. You wanted to talk?

Markus: I’d like to, yeah. I heard a little about the dynamics of Vailheu from Candy but I’d want to hear it from the horse’s mouth, you know what I mean?

Lisa: I guess, sure. What’d Lollipop tell you?

Markus: Lollipop?

Lisa: That’s what I’m going to call Candy from now on. She doesn’t deserve to have me call her by her real name.

Markus can’t help but laugh a little, regarding Lisa with a strange look as she gives a snooty little shrug, a smug smirk on her face as she takes a bite of her food.

Markus: Well…Candy told me you felt you were on the bottom.

Lisa: I’m surprised she was that honest with you. I’d’ve thought she’d’ve kept that part hidden.

Markus: I mean, I suppose she figured you’d spill the beans anyway.

Lisa: She’d be right about that…

The camera cuts to Markus watching Lisa shrewdly, as the latter continues to spew about Candy.

Meanwhile, on the Mwali tribe…

All five castaways are lying down in the shelter, chatting in the sleepy hours of the morning a little after dawn.

Kelli: He wasn’t popular. He never stopped whining.

Carter: Really?

Kelli: Yeah, it was insane, honestly, how much he could talk and not get tired of it. I’ve never, in my life, heard a dude complain and bitch so much as he did.

Hazel laughs out loud, clapping.

Hazel: He sounds like quite a character.

Blake: I could never stand for someone like that. I’m glad that kid and I didn’t end up on the same tribe or I’d smack his mouth for not shutting up.

Kelli: Yeah...but other than that, life was sweet.

Keira: ...No drama on Pamanzi?

Kelli: Hmm...no.

Hazel: What about showmances? Were there any?

Kelli laughs a little and chokes.

Kelli: [coughs] Um...not really, no. Why? Did you guys have one?

Hazel: Oh heck no. [laughing] All the men on our tribe have wives and girlfriends. And I’m dating too.

Keira: Same here. I’m not looking for a man anyway.

Hazel giggles, slapping Keira’s arm and Keira shows one of her rare smiles in return.

Blake: Carter, what about you, buddy? You had any couples like that?

Carter: Ahh...look, I know what you’re thinking. Carter from last season, he was always with Christine so definitely, there’s something like that going on again here. I’m telling you now, it’s not the case. No showmances for me this time around! I’m done with them.

Blake: Good for you.

Carter: I wouldn’t call it a showmance, but the first person we voted out, Chase...he and this girl, Lisa, did have a...well, they were closer than the rest of us, I suppose. Not that it amounted to much, but it’s the nearest thing to a showmance we had on our tribe…

Kelli is silent, listening to all this.

"mwali"

- It was lowkey funny to hear the others share their stories on their lack of showmances on their tribes, because little do they know, I’m in a showmance myself! I’m thankful I’m the only Pamanzi member here now, because had any one of them other than Elmer been with me, they would’ve immediately spilled the beans about how close Elmer and I are. I don’t...want to be seen as part of a showmance, so I know it was probably a mistake to have made our duo so obvious back on Pamanzi. [giggling] But now that I’m on a new tribe...it’s best to keep that secret. I don’t want these guys thinking...hey, Kelli is one half of a pair with Elmer, let’s take her out to weaken Elmer in the game. I swear, should these Mwali bitches vote me off, you can bet they’ll have incurred the wrath of Elmer to deal with. That’s why I’m going to play it smart while I’m here on my own, and keep mum about that.

Hazel: Either way, I’m sorry you had to endure that on Vailheu. What with two out of three Tribals and all…

Carter: It could’ve been worse. We could’ve attended all three.

Keira: You’re welcome.

Hazel laughs at Keira’s quip again.

Carter: I’m mostly just grateful I’m here at all. I know veterans came into this game with an instant target on their back.

Blake: Naw, you’re good. Don’t worry about it.

Carter chews on his lip, lying on his back and looking up at the ceiling of the shelter.

"mwali"

- I want Carter gone. I don’t like veterans. I don’t want to play with people who’ve played this game before. But I’m trying not to make it too obvious I feel this way. I’m pretending to form a bond with Carter, playing nice, telling him stuff like, ‘oh, don’t worry about it, no one’s gonna target you because you’re a returning player’ and all that jazz. It’s all horseradish. I plan on taking out the veterans one after the other, the sooner the better. The more wool I pull over Carter’s eyes and the safer I make him think he is...the better. And he’s none the wiser.

Blake: Alright. That’s enough resting. I’m gonna get some food ready.

Keira: I’ll help.

The two get up. Carter watches Blake even as Hazel continues to chitter away in his and Kelli’s ears.

"mwali"

- Blake likes to act as if he’s fine with having me around, and he doesn’t think I should have to worry more than the new players that I’m a returning player. [shakes head] Sounds like a load of malarkey to me. I can call his bluff easily. There’s such a sly, fake vibe to him that I can’t shake off. I can tell he’s blowing smoke up my ass, and it’s blatant for all to see. Hazel, too, has a terrible poker face. She told me the other day that she didn’t think I’d have to worry and that Kelli was more likely to be the target than I was, because she was from Pamanzi and they have all their members still in the game. [flashes air quotes] Yeah, right. I know I’m likely in the hot seat if we attend Tribal again. Like I’ve already pointed out, this is the tribe that cut Erin loose at their first vote. They’re a ruthless bunch, and I think Blake’s the one leading the charge. I know I’m in danger. You can’t fool me. I’m not the same naive dude I was on Mozambique. Playing with Markus taught me a lot on how to be more perceptive. Had it not been for him, I could’ve been blindsided early on in Mozambique by the people I thought I could trust. Having seen upfront the way he played...I know now the benefits of playing with a healthy amount of paranoia.

Carter eyes Blake up, and looks away right as Blake realizes he’s looking back.

"mwali"

- I’m really settling into Erin’s little nickname for me now. I was a bit insulted when I heard it at first, but now I realize...I got no reason to be. It’s a compliment! I’m the Godfather! My daughters will think it’s hilarious. And I've made my peace with Hazel for making her the decoy boot during Erin's vote to keep Keira off our alliance's scent. I believe she'd blindly follow me into battle if I decreed it, and Keira's not the type to rock the boat. I sincerely have faith they'd stick with me on this new tribe and I trust their loyalty. Maverick was the only one starting to feel iffy about my leadership and he's not here. So I say...be it Champion or Contender...I don't care. Carter this time around is clearly much more strategic and cutthroat than he was the first time, now that he’s backstabbed two men in his first two votes, according to what he told us. To me, that puts him on par with the Champions like Markus and Erin. And so, my anti-veteran stance stays strong. As long as you're a veteran, you're a target. And if the Godfather says you gotta go, then you gotta go! Sorry, Carter. [laughing]

The camera cuts to Carter staring obliviously forward into space, as Blake plots against him while a clip of Blake’s laughter echoes in the background.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu tribe…

The tribe is awake, and Elmer is fanning the fire as he prepares a pot of water.

Randall is scratching his back as Drew returns from the beach with Bridgette by his side.

Randall: I’m going to get water. Drew, wanna come with?

Drew: Sure, man.

They grab their canteens and go.

"vailheu"

- [pouts] I’m...really not feeling this new tribe. No, I’m not. It’s funny, because honestly, not much has changed. Four of the six of us are still together. But I wasn’t feeling uber positive about my old tribe to begin with, and it feels worse now, having Mallorie here. She already has a connection to Bridgette, and Bridgette, I know, is most likely aligned with Elmer. So, realistically...what has changed? I still feel like my name would be thrown out there first at a potential Tribal. With three returning players and only two newbies on this tribe of five, this is basically a Seychelles reunion, plus Elmer from Cayman Islands, and then what are me and Drew? The two newbie idiots who crashed the returneefest party. Ironically, for the first time this season, being a returning player actually gives you the advantage in numbers rather than being a newbie, because the three of them now outnumber the two of us. Even if me and Elmer did get along just fine, the fact is...it’s a numbers game now.

Rnadall: Dude, I’m not feeling good at all about this.

Drew: [ladling water] About what? ...The water?

Randall: No, dude. Dude, wake up. There are three of them and two of us. I’m thinking we’re in hot water, is what it is.

Drew: This water’s pretty lukewarm if you ask me.

Randall: ...Dude.

Drew: I’m kidding, I’m kidding. [laughing] Look, relax, alright?

Randall: Easy for you to say. You know as well as I do that if them three get together and decide to knock one of us out next...it’ll be me first over you.

Drew: Well, I told you not to make it so obvious you hated Elmer.

Randall: I don’t hate him. I wouldn’t use so strong a word.

Drew: Well, you certainly don’t like him, do you?

Randall: I’m just the only person not being charmed by his mesmerizing eyes and charismatic personality enough to see him for the threat that he is. I wanted to target him from the start and that made me stand out instead. Funny, how being the only one with common sense makes you the easy vote.

Drew sighs.

Drew: Just try and stay positive. Don't be a pessimist.

Randall: Face it, one of us is screwed. We're dead in the water. ...I swear, if you make one more water-related pun...

Drew: We're not screwed...and no, I wasn't gonna make another joke. It's not that bad yet. I think we can still stay together.

Randall: What, like...Pamanzi-strong? And take out Mallorie first?

Drew: That's what I'd like.

Randall: Dude, have you forgotten me and Elmer have this silent war brewing still? Or that Bridgette and Mallorie...were literally on Seychelles together, and were friends too? There is no way this works out against her.

The camera cuts to Mallorie washing the dishes by the rocks, then to Elmer and Bridgette talking, the latter laughing at something he said.

Randall: You’re a smart cookie, brother. Even you can’t be too blind to acknowledge the dynamic here that puts us both at risk. Should those three get together and form an alliance of sorts since they’re all three returnees...we’re the ones in trouble. You really think you could turn things around on Mallorie, when one of her best friends is on this tribe, and the other veteran knows I have beef with him?

Drew: You definitely didn’t make it easy, I’ll tell you that much.

Randall: Oh, enough with the reproaching, man...I can say I’m sorry but you know it wouldn’t be any different.

Drew: I have hope we can pull a Pamanzi-strong deal together. Mallorie’s a huge threat.

Randall: I agree, for sure. I just think Elmer’s a bigger one, and needs to leave first.

Drew: Yeah, but would either Bridgette or Mallorie go for that? I think we have better luck pushing for us four on Pamanzi to stick together like glue, and take out Mallorie first.

"vailheu"

- Randall’s freaking out about the possibility of there being a returnees’ alliance, of Bridgette, Mallorie and Elmer. I think Bridgette and Elmer are close. She and Mallorie are obviously close too. But I don’t think this means it’s hopeless for Randall and I. He’s not wrong that the new dynamic of this tribe means us two are up against three veterans. But at the same time, having us four Pamanzi stick together and stay Pamanzi-strong isn’t completely out of the realm of possibility yet. No matter how deep the rivalry between Randall and Elmer run, I’m hoping they can put aside their differences, recognize that we have the numbers right now, and stay true to that, and we can take Mallorie out first. I connect with her the least anyway, having only just met her, and I’ve seen the way she plays, and it intimidates me because she’s very good at this game. She’s a leader. Who knows what friends she has on Vailheu, that could spell bad news for the rest of us at a merge or even another swap? My plan is to stay Pamanzi-strong and eliminate Mallorie from the mix. The only obstacle is getting Randall and Elmer to put their egoes aside and acknowledge that that’s what’s best for all our games at this point.

Drew: Let me talk with Bridgette, as well as Elmer. I’ll see if we can’t work something out to target Mallorie first.

Randall: Yeah, you should handle Elmer. He and I would have such an uncomfortable conversation. So you know, I don’t have faith in this plan of yours. But you do you, you work your magic.

They share another fistbump and Drew slaps him playfully on the back.

Drew: Don’t be such a worrywart.

Randall: That’s rich. Weren't you the one warning me about laying low before?

Drew: Yeah but you're still already assuming you're dead in the water. The lukewarm water, mind you. Whine a little less. [laughing]

The two leave.

Day 12
Jeff: Come on in, guys!

The three tribes enter.

Jeff: Ready to get to today’s challenge? First things first, Keira and Constance, I will take the idols back.

He takes the two tribal immunity idols back.

Jeff: For today’s challenge, you will be balancing a disk with ropes and stacking letter tiles on it to spell the word “IMMUNITY”. One by one, each of the five of you will grab one of the letter blocks on the table next to you, and move to the disc in the centre and place your block. While doing so, the rest of your tribe must hold onto the ropes keeping the disc in the middle steady. If you pull the rope with too much or too little tension, the disc wobbles and your blocks will fall and you gotta start over. First two tribes to spell out the word “IMMUNITY” on their discs...wins immunity, safe from Tribal Council. Losers, nothing but a date with me at Tribal where one of you will become the fourth person voted out of this game.

Maverick whistles through his teeth. Candy nods solemnly.

Jeff: We’ll get started.

The camera cuts to the round disc in the middle of the Pamanzi section, then to the idol stuck to the bottom of it, for Lisa to retrieve.

Soon, all three tribes are in position.

Jeff: Survivors ready?

Markus exhales, clutching at his rope.

Drew: Yes, sir.

Jeff: ...Go!

All three tribes have their disc lifted up, pulling on their ropes equally, and begin talking to one another.

Jeff: It is Kelli moving forward with the first block for Mwali...Candy for Pamanzi and Drew for Vailheu.

Elmer: Slow and steady, Drew.

Markus: You got it, Candy.

Drew is moving fastest, Candy right behind him, and Kelli a little slower.

Jeff: Drew places the first block! Candy places her first block!

Kelli reaches the disc right as the other two begin heading back.

Blake: Kelli, go faster. We don’t need to hold our balance much for the first few blocks.

Kelli picks up the pace, casting Blake a mildly miffed look.

Jeff: Bridgette heading out now with the second block for Vailheu. Lisa heading out for Mwali…

Bridgette places the letter “T” down, and starts heading back, moving fast while the rest of the tribe holds the disc steady.

Lisa is taking her time, gingerly setting the block down.

Maverick: Lisa, move a little quicker.

Lisa doesn’t acknowledge him.

Jeff: Kelli is back. Now, Hazel heading out with the next block…

Bridgette returns. Mallorie is now moving down the rope with her next block.

Jeff: It is the new Vailheu tribe, with a majority of Pamanzi members, in the lead. Even with the accursed yellow buffs on their heads, the previously red tribe is continuing to dominate with a strong performance in challenges…

Mallorie reaches the disc at the same time that Lisa and Hazel return from placing theirs.

Jeff: Constance and Blake heading out now, head-to-head, for their respective tribes, trying to catch Vailheu…

Mallorie places her block and moves back slowly. The tower of blocks wobbles a little but does not fall.

Jeff: Mallorie moving a little more carefully now that the tower of blocks is getting higher. You are spelling out the word “IMMUNITY” which means you have a total of eight blocks to stack. The taller your stack gets…

The camera cuts to Blake and Constance putting their “I” blocks down.

Jeff: ...the likelier it is to fall. This challenge requires precision, a steady hand...and teamwork. How well can you work within your brand new tribes to win immunity? You do not want to be punished with a trip to Tribal Council. With completely new tribe dynamics, the risk of going home is even higher. The only way to ensure safety is to win...this...challenge.

Randall is heading out, clutching the “N” block in one hand and holding the rope with the other.

Elmer: Randall, go slower.

Randall: I am going [censored] slow.

Elmer: You’re shaking the thing.

Randall: It’s fine. I don’t want them catching up.

Elmer: We’ve got a good lead, we’re fine. Just keep going, slow and steady-

Randall: I got this. Bro. I got it.

Jeff: Elmer and Randall, arguing in the middle of a challenge for no good reason…

Randall blushes. Drew cannot help but share a look with Bridgette.

Jeff: Keira and Markus, both heading out with their blocks…

Keira gingerly places her block atop the stack, and flinches slightly, fear breaking through her otherwise stony facade of concentration for the briefest moment. Her tower settles and she relaxes, never taking her eyes off it as she moonwalks back to her post.

Markus is sticking half of his tongue out between his teeth as he places his block.

Maverick: Steady...nice one, man.

Markus moves backwards, keeping the tower still.

Maverick: Good job. You got this.

Jeff: Maverick doling out encouragement…

Randall is inching his way back from placing his block, and reaches his original spot.

Elmer: Alright. I’m gonna head out.

Randall: Go for it.

Jeff: Elmer heading out with the fifth block for Vailheu…

Markus returns. Maverick takes his cue and begins scooching forward with their fifth block, taking big, calculated steps.

Keira returns as well, and now Carter is moving forward, down his rope.

Jeff: Vailheu is still retaining a slight lead but the other two tribes are right on their tail, eager to make up for any lost time. This...is going to be a slow, but intense footrace. You want to be faster than the other tribes but not fast enough that you drop your blocks. Only the tribe that finds that balance will succeed…

Mallorie: Randall, you’re leaning.

Sure enough, the disc is leaning slightly on Randall’s side, dangerously close to tipping the tower of blocks over the edge.

Randall: No, I’m not.

Bridgette: Randall, pull up your rope.

Drew: You’re giving too much slack.

Randall: I am pulling on my rope! Look.

He pulls back the rope as much as he can. The disc is still leaning slightly.

Mallorie: No, you need to pull it towards you. Pull it-

The disc wobbles seconds before Elmer can reach it and the tower shakes ominously. The first two blocks fall over.

Elmer cusses as he races to pick them all up.

Jeff: Vailheu drops! Vailheu now has to restart…

Mallorie’s face is dark.

Randall squints at her, shaking his head.

Blake: Slow and steady, Carter. You’re doing great, we’re in the lead…

Carter places his fifth block and exhales, moving back down his balance beam at a snail’s pace, but it pays off as the stack of five remain intact.

Blake: Nice one…

Jeff: Mwali now in the lead with five...Pamanzi right behind…

Maverick places his fifth block, huffing as he moves backwards.

Jeff: Vailheu lost a major lead. A huge setback for the tribe in first place, especially with four people who have won every single immunity challenge thus far and have yet to go to Tribal Council! Now they’re racing to catch back up. You need to pick up the pace, Vailheu!

Drew is racing back down his beam, having hurriedly replaced his first block. Bridgette is now rushing to place hers as well.

Jeff: Kelli, now heading back out again to place her sixth block…

Kelli is moving slowly, the block tucked under her armpit, sweat dripping down the side of her red face as she sticks her tongue out, eyes locked onto the stack of blocks on the disc in the centre.

Candy is moving too, a little faster than Kelli, overtaking her.

Markus: Careful, Candy…

Constance: No need to rush, sweetheart. We only need to avoid last place. Coming second is fine. We just can’t drop here…

Jeff: All the two tribes need to do is outlast Vailheu…

The camera cuts to Randall replacing the fourth block, inching back now, with the eyes of the other four lasered in on him and the disc of blocks.

Jeff: But Vailheu is doing their best to catch up.

Kelli places her sixth block and starts to make her way back. The disc quivers slightly and so does Kelli, who struggles a little to stay on her balance beam.

Hazel: Ah, ah…!

Hazel opens her mouth, freezing in fear, as the five on Mwali watch their tower for any further signs of movement.

The disc stabilizes…

...and the blocks stay.

Jeff: Nice save from Mwali…

Kelli continues moving backwards, as Hazel breathes an exaggerated sigh of relief.

Candy places her block, and starts inching back too.

Elmer is heading out again, for the second time, with the fifth block once more.

Jeff: The key to rebounding after dropping your stack is not to panic.

Hazel is heading out now, taking a breath to steel herself as she scoots down her beam with the seventh block.

Blake: We’re so close guys. We got this, just take it slow and steady, slow and steady wins the race.

Lisa is heading out now as well, clutching the rope and her seventh block with both hands.

The Pamanzi disc jolts out of the blue when Lisa tugs on the rope.

Markus jumps in alarm. Constance gasps.

Constance: No, Lisa, don’t…!

But it’s too late, as half the Pamanzi stack takes a spill into the dirt.

Lisa shouts in frustration as Candy’s shoulders sag with crushing defeat.

Lisa: Shoot, [censored]!

She stands there, simply staring at the fallen blocks in despair, until Maverick rounds on her, furious.

Maverick: Pick the [censored] blocks up, Lisa!

Jeff: Lisa, running to grab the fallen stack. Pamanzi, now has to start...from...scratch. This could be the golden opportunity the Vailheu tribe was waiting for…

Reinvigorated, the Vailheu tribe start to call out to Elmer, even Randall.

Bridgette: They just dropped. Elmer, keep going.

Drew: You’re doing just fine, Elmer. Don’t stop to worry about them, just take it slow…

Randall: Be careful…

Elmer places his block and waits a beat, to make sure the stack is solid, before inching back, never once taking his eyes off the prize.

Meanwhile, Hazel carefully places her block. The tower shakes a little as the base of her block touches the top of the tower, and her mouth flies open in a comical expression of fear, while she steadies the shaking tower with her block.

Carter: [breathing] Careful…

Keira: Don’t rush it.

Holding her breath, Hazel lets the block go...and takes an agonizingly slow step back. The tower stays.

Blake: Okay, now make your way back, slowly.

Hazel does as he says, moving her feet one after the other.

Jeff: Mwali is just one block away from victory. It is Vailheu and Pamanzi in a race for second place right now and Vailheu is winning after a horrible setback…!

Drew is placing the sixth block now, and inching his way back. Over on Pamanzi, Lisa is replacing the second block, making her way back as fast as she can, flustered. Maverick looks irritated, watching her work with distaste.

Jeff: Blake is now heading out with the eighth and final block for Mwali!

Blake moves down his balance beam, contorting his face into all kinds of odd expressions as he does so, concentrating hard on his task.

Bridgette reaches the disc, the seventh block in her hand.

Mallorie: Slow and steady, Bridge…

Jeff: Bridgette placing the seventh block for Vailheu. A very nice recovery for the Vailheu tribe so far, but can they keep it up?

Elmer: You’re doing great, Bridge.

Bridgette: Heh...thanks, guys.

She slowly retreats, fingers sliding along the rope.

Blake reaches the middle disc and swallows with difficulty, his hand shaking as he extends his arm and holds the final block above the stack, poised to place it down.

Jeff: Blake about to place the final block...can he do it?

He sets the block down, adjusting it slightly out of nerves as his hand shakes with the tower.

Blake: Hold it steady, guys...h-hold it steady…

The other four are gripping their ropes tightly, with white knuckles showing.

Carter: Come on…

Blake: Steady…

Blake lets go and the tower stays still.

Jeff: Blake now needs to make it back to his post and the tower must remain upright for a full five seconds, for this victory to count. Anything could happen between then and now. If even one block falls, all of Mwali’s hard work is null and void, and they must start over. Surely, that’s what the Pamanzi tribe is hoping for.

On the Pamanzi tribe, Markus is adjusting the fourth block, but can’t quite get it to stay in a centralized spot, as the small tower wobbles a little and the disc tips to one side.

Maverick: Lisa and Constance, you need to give more slack on your ropes.

Constance: I’m trying.

Lisa grunts.

Maverick: Not too much!

Constance: Sorry.

Jeff: The Pamanzi tribe is in dead last now…

Blake is almost back at his original spot, and is sliding his feet back one at a time. Their disc is now almost rock solid, as all five tribe members keep it up.

Jeff: Mwali doing a surprisingly good job...haven’t dropped a single block so far. Mwali, seconds away from winning immunity…!

Blake takes one last step back and waits…

A moment passes, and then…

Jeff: And that will do it for Mwali! Mwali, wins immunity!

The Mwali five erupt into celebration, all releasing their ropes and dropping their disc and block at once. Kelli and Hazel leap off their posts and the group envelops each other in warm hugs, all of them yelling and cheering with joyous looks on their faces.

Blake puts his arms around Carter’s and Hazel’s shoulders as the five gather in a group huddle.

Blake: Mwali on three, guys! One...two...three!

The tribe shouts “Mwali!” with a smattering of laughter and high fives.

Lisa casts them all a dirty look. Candy watches them a little sourly.

Mallorie is placing the final block now for Pamanzi, and moving back on her beam.

Jeff: Mwali, already safe from Tribal Council, and we’re looking for one more. Mallorie placing the final block for her tribe, she now needs to make it back to win this challenge, sending the Pamanzi tribe to Tribal Council…

Maverick turns to watch them, dejection written all over his face.

Markus is making his way back from placing their fourth block.

Constance: Let’s not give up yet, guys. They could still drop. Let’s keep it going.

Lisa: What’s the point?

Constance: No, no. Don’t say that. Don’t give up until it’s over. Let’s keep it going.

Markus makes his way back, and Maverick moves out with the fifth block. But Mallorie is already almost back at her post, and this time, their tribe’s disc and stack looks solid.

Jeff: Mallorie needs to make it back and the tower needs to stay for another five seconds…

Mallorie puts one foot back on her original post. The tower wobbles a little and pure unadulterated horror crosses Bridgette’s tense face for a split second…

But the tower of blocks stays…

A couple beats pass and it remains standing. Jeff throws his hands in the air.

Jeff: And it does! Vailheu wins immunity, sending the Pamanzi tribe to Tribal Council!

The Vailheu tribe cheer and drop their stack with glee. Bridgette is squealing as she leaps into Elmer’s arms, and Drew, Randall and Mallorie are hugging and sharing high fives as well, all looking immensely relieved, the weight and the pressure of the challenge lifted off everyone’s shoulders.

Bridgette: That was awesome…

Elmer: Holy cow...good job, everyone.

The Pamanzi tribe have dropped their stack too. Lisa stands, scowling at the celebratory tribe. Markus shakes his head, pinching the bridge of his nose and looking at his feet in shame.

Constance: It’s alright, everyone. We tried.

She pats Maverick on the back in a consoling gesture, but he looks too disappointed to notice.

Lisa suddenly widens her eyes, and moves to the middle of their challenge to squat down by the stack of fallen blocks.

Lisa: How did we lose that? Damn…

Candy shrugs at her, and turns away. Quickly looking around at the others, Lisa pretends to make a fuss, making a guttural noise in the back of her throat as she lifts the disc, pretending to inspect it for no particular reason. She places her hand on the bottom of the disc and runs it up and down the surface.

Standing back up, she has two of the lettered blocks in her hands to hide the other object she is now carrying, and is walking off with them. Before she drops the blocks back into the dirt, she turns away, and when she turns back, she has already slipped the idol into her underwear. Eyes darting suspiciously around, she awkwardly eyes the others around her, but the rest of her tribe is too absorbed in their disappointment to care.

With no one paying her any mind, she smiles a little triumphantly despite herself.

Soon, everyone is back on their tribe mats.

Jeff: Mwali, congratulations. You kept a steady pace throughout the challenge, and it paid off. Congrats.

He hands a beaming Hazel the idol, and she is beside herself, waving it for her tribe as Kelli and Carter grin and reach out to touch it.

Jeff: Vailheu...you had a bit of a setback, but a nice comeback as well. Just goes to show...you NEVER give up on Survivor. Congrats to you too.

He hands the idol to Bridgette, who smiles widely and takes it.

Jeff: Mwali, Vailheu, head on back to camp and enjoy the night off.

Hazel: Thanks, Jeff!

Mallorie: Finally. I don’t have to see your ugly mug tonight, Jeff.

Jeff grins as Mallorie winks at him and the two tribes leave. Carter nods at Candy and Markus as he passes by the Pamanzi tribe.

Carter: [mouthing] Good luck.

Markus nods back. Candy smiles a tad bit sadly, giving a small wave. Maverick catches both of them in his periphery.

Jeff: Well...Pamanzi. Before the swap, this tribe was doing well. Now...not so much. You have the afternoon to figure out who the fourth person voted out of this game is going to be. I’ll see you guys at Tribal.

The Pamanzi tribe turns to leave.

As they go, the camera focuses on Markus walking alongside Maverick.

Returning to the Pamanzi beach, the tribe of five toss their belongings into the shelter, most people’s faces betraying their concern across the board.

Markus: Don’t feel down, guys. It’s a sucky situation, no matter what.

Constance: I’ve never done this before, guys. I’m a bit nervous.

Candy rubs her arm comfortingly.

Candy: Don’t be, it’s alright. We tried, and...that’s all that matters.

Lisa rolls her eyes.

Markus: Yeah.

Maverick sighs, rubbing the back of his neck.

Maverick: Markus. Wanna get water?

Markus: Sounds good.

The camera follows the two men as they walk to the well.

Maverick: What’s the plan tonight?

Markus: I’m thinking…it has to be one of the Vailheu girls.

Maverick: Right?

Markus: It’s the safest option, we just need to get Constance to vote with us.

Reaching the well, Markus leans against it as Maverick sets his canteen down.

Markus: I think I have Constance on my side. We’ve spoken a bit and I like her. I

Maverick: You think she’d be willing to vote with us?

Markus: I say we start a new alliance with her, get her on our side. We pitch that we take out one of the Vailheu girls for strength and because they may have stronger allies in the two Vailheu veterans.

Maverick: Alright, so Constance’s the swing vote. Which girl do you want to vote out then?

At that moment, Lisa comes strolling down the path.

Lisa: Hey. Can I talk to you boys for a sec?

Markus: Sure. What is it?

She joins the conversation.

Lisa: Okay, so, I don’t know where both your heads are at, but I’m making it clear now. I was solidly on the bottom of Vailheu. I’ve told you both that before. I don’t know how much you believe me, but it’s the truth. And I want to prove it. I will vote with you guys.

Maverick: You will?

Lisa: Yes. This doesn’t have to be a complicated vote. I was neglected and I was sure to go home if we lost another challenge on Vailheu. Mallorie and I were at odds with one another. I was the next target, one hundred percent, without question. And so I don’t have any reason to work with them, especially not Candy.

Maverick: She seems to be under the impression that the two of you will be working together, though.

Lisa: I don’t care. I am not working with her. Whoever the two of you want to vote out tonight, whether it’s Candy or Constance...whatever, I’m jumping ship to you both.

Markus: So if we say we’re voting out Candy tonight, would you do it?

Lisa: Yes. Matter of fact, I want to do that. I would be more than happy to vote her out. She and Mallorie were like two peas in a pod. They were a tight ship controlling the whole operation on Vailheu, like...I’m done with them.

Lisa: I’m telling you, I want to work with you. I just want her gone. That’s all there is to it, no funny business from me. We send her packing tonight, and I’m with you and your allies moving forward. I promise you my loyalty.

Markus: Sounds like a deal to me. Case closed; we do Candy.

Lisa: [nodding] Case closed.

Maverick: [shrugs] I’m all for it. We won’t even need Constance then.

Lisa: Okay. Good.

Lisa returns to camp, and walks down the beach to where Candy is standing by the water’s edge, with Constance, who is washing herself.

Candy: Hey, girl.

Lisa: Hi.

The two stand awkwardly.

Candy: Did you want to discuss what we’re gonna do tonight?

Lisa: Well, what would you have me do?

Lisa cannot help but pull a face, and Candy frowns.

Candy: I was thinking...us three girls need to stick together. I think Markus and Maverick seem like a solid pair. This vote goes along tribal lines, then...we need each other to have the numbers.

Constance: I agree.

Lisa: [shrugs] Sure, yeah.

Candy: So...what are we doing? Do you girls want to do Markus, or Maverick?

Constance: I’m fine with either option. It’s my first vote, so I’m still a little nervous, I don’t altogether know what to expect, so I will go where the numbers are.

Lisa: It’s going to be a 3-2 vote, Constance, so like it or not, you basically control where the numbers go.

Constance looks slightly upset at Lisa’s curt tone of voice.

Candy: Well, let me throw something out there then, if neither of you have a preference. Let’s just do Markus.

The camera cuts to Markus walking around camp, with Maverick watching him from the shelter.

Candy: He’s a Champion, he’s won the game before. That’s an easy reason to single him out as a threat. As none of us want to go home, I think that’s ra eason as good enough as any to vote him out. Maverick hasn’t done much to out himself as a target yet, so I don’t think it makes a whole lot of sense to go after him tonight.

Candy: I hope you still don’t feel some type of way about me after your feud with Mallorie. I don’t blame you if you harbor a grudge against her…

Lisa: That’s not important right now. Why are you bringing that up?

Candy: No, I know, of course, I...I um, was just saying that because I don’t know if you’re keen on working with me after…

Lisa: Of course I am, Candy. What else could I do? Those two guys are clearly coming after one of us. Like it or not, I have to work with us girls.

Candy: Okay. Cool. Then we do Markus?

Constance: I’m fine with it.

Lisa: [shrugs] Like I said...sure.

Candy: Okay.

Lisa is sitting with Markus later.

Making sure Candy and Constance are still down by the beach, she leans in conspiratorially to whisper to Markus.

Lisa: Candy’s decided that our “plan”...is to vote you out tonight.

Markus: Me, huh?

Lisa: Yeah. But I’m not gonna do that. [rolls eyes] Pfft. Candy thinks she’s slick. I wouldn’t expect anything less. I’m through with her.

Markus: [chuckling] Okay.

Lisa: You’ll see my vote tonight. I’ll draw a smiley face next to her name and send her ass home, I don’t give a [censored].

Markus: You really don’t like your old tribe, huh?

Lisa: Not since they left me out of the loop twice in a row, no.

Markus: Alright. Me and Maverick are solid on this. We vote Candy out tonight, we move forward. You have a place with us, I promise.

Lisa: Thank you, seriously. I appreciate it.

The camera cuts back to Candy and Constance. Constance is washing out her hair with saltwater, staring up at Candy, who is biting her fingernail and looking out at the ocean with a concerned look on her face.

Constance: What’s wrong? You look troubled.

Candy: [shaking head] I dunno. I get bad vibes from Lisa. I don’t trust this.

Constance: You don’t?

Candy: No. I don’t think she’s being truthful.

Constance: Did you want to switch the target then? From Markus, to Lisa, perhaps?

Candy: Would we have the numbers for that, even?

Constance: You could throw her name out there and see if the two boys take the bait.

Candy mulls it over.

Constance: I just want to say, I’ll go with whatever decision you make tonight. I have no one else left since all my original tribe members are gone, and of the four people on this tribe, I want to vote with the person I like most, and that’s you.

Candy: Thank you, Constance.

Constance: Don’t thank me. We still need to figure out what we’re going to do tonight first.

Candy: Right. I know. [stares out at horizon] I know…

Some time later, Candy is moving to sit with Maverick in front of the fire, by the shelter. She glances down the beach to where Lisa is, once again, suntanning with her buff over her face.

Markus is nowhere to be found.

Candy: Hey. How you feeling about tonight?

Maverick: [dusts sole of foot] I should be asking you that question. Feelin’ nervous?

Candy: I’d be lying if I said “only a little bit”.

Maverick: A lot, then?

Candy: A lot nervous describes it pretty well, yeah.

Maverick grabs a knife nearby and begins slicing up a coconut for them to share.

Maverick: D’you wanna talk?

Candy: Yes. I have a feeling it’s going to be me tonight, isn’t it?

Maverick pauses, then continues as if choosing his words carefully.

Maverick: And...what would give you that idea?

Candy: [chuckles] You don’t have to play dumb with me. Lisa came up to you with a plan, didn’t she? I could tell from her body language earlier that she has no desire to keep working with me, not that she’s ever expressed that desire to begin with.

Maverick is quiet, still carving up the coconut in his hands.

Maverick: ...That so?

Candy: [nods] Is that what you want to do too? You can be honest with me, I won’t go running back to her or Markus with any information.

Maverick sighs, putting the coconut down.

Maverick: Honestly, I’ve been doing something myself. I’m not entirely sure I want to go through with it.

Candy: [chuckling] I knew it. She’s so transparent. [narrows eyes] You don’t actually want to do what she says, do you? That’s music to my ears.

Maverick: Targeting you was her plan, hands down. Me? I just want it to not be me tonight.

Candy: Of course. Well, you know I’m not coming after you, and for the record, Constance isn’t either.

Maverick: But you want to stay.

Candy: Without question. I can tell you with certainty that...I’m pretty sure, of all five people on this tribe, you’re the one sitting the most pretty. You have the least reason for people to target you at this stage of the game. The tribe needs your strength in challenges. Everyone else has strategic value to be nominated as a target.

Maverick: So you don’t want it to be you.

Candy: I don’t know what stories Lisa’s told you. Is it true she was on the bottom with our old tribe? Yes. But it was an isolation she imposed on herself. We didn’t ostracize her on purpose. Was it a strategic blunder to keep her here? Maybe, maybe not. But the point is, while I can understand the appeal of working with her because she was on the bottom before, doesn’t mean she’s going to be the best ally. There was a reason she found herself on the bottom with no allies.

Maverick: You don’t have to tell me twice. I’ve only known her for so long and I can see she’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

Maverick: I have given it some thought. If no one was going to come up to me with a better plan, I would’ve been fine going along with what she wanted, because it does give me and Markus the numbers on the tribe and if she’s telling the truth about how you, Carter and Mallorie were a tight trio, then it also breaks that threesome up and gives us a free agent as a number.

Candy: I can see that, sure. But I can feel a “but” coming…

Maverick: ...But...I don’t necessarily want to do go along with that plan. I’m not a follower.

Candy: I didn’t think you were.

Maverick: When I knew I was going to be on the season, I told myself I would never play a sheep’s game. I didn’t want to be that guy following orders a-and writing down names...based on what somebody else told me. That’s not a winner’s game, in my opinion. I don’t respect that kind of game. Like, why play Survivor...if you’re not going to actually play Survivor, know what I mean?

Candy: Hey, you don’t need to tell me about gaming, man. [laughing] I know more about games than you might realize.

Maverick: Season after season, I see people wait too long to make the right move at the right time because they were too afraid of going against the grain. I don’t want that to be me.

Candy: Right. I’m telling you, Lisa’s myth about me and the veterans on my tribe having a “threesome”? It was entirely because she felt so on the outs, that she felt the need to perpetuate that kind of storyline. But this means I have numbers that I can bring to your side - to our side, if you will.

Maverick: I definitely feel more at ease talking strategies out with you than her, I’ll say that much.

He picks up a twig and doodles in the sand a bit.

Maverick: You’d write down whatever name you had to to stay in?

Candy: Of course. But that obviously would be better if it meant I’d be writing it down with you.

Maverick: [nods] And Constance has no preference?

Candy: I don’t think she likes Lisa very much.

Maverick: Yeah, I don’t blame her. I can see why those two women might rub each other the wrong way.

Candy: Both me and Constance would put down Lisa’s name in a heartbeat. And you save me tonight, you have me in your corner. I owe you, and I don’t like owing people favors, and that’s the truth. I’ll prove my loyalty to you when push comes to shove, and I mean that.

Maverick: [nods] Okay, Candy. I believe you.

She waits for him to continue.

Maverick stares at the smoke rising from the fire, white tendrils coiling ominously over his face as he now pokes at one of the bug bites on his leg with the twig in his hand.

Maverick: Instead of Lisa...how would you feel about, say...doing Markus tonight?

The camera cuts to Markus brooding down by the beach, now sitting next to Lisa, who is picking at one of her toenails.

Candy: ...You’d do that?

Maverick: I could. I’m entertaining the idea.

Candy: Honestly, I’m in no position to negotiate, but it sounds more than good to me. He’s a big threat. He’s a previous winner, the most recent winner in fact. I’d be fine with either him or Lisa going, as long as it means I stay another day. If that’s what you want to do tonight, you can count on me following through with it. I will put either one of their names down, whichever one you want, and I can promise Constance would do the same.

Maverick is scratching at his beard, smirking at Candy, who grins back.

Candy: We can do it. Seriously, you have the power to pull it off tonight. I got nothing left in my pocket to pull out. My only hope is doing what you want me to and hoping you’re good on your word. If it works, great. You pull it off and you’ve got me and Constance in your debt. I don’t want to push anything onto you because it’s ultimately your decision in the end. You know where I stand. Right now, I’m as much of a free agent as Lisa claims herself to be.

Maverick: I’ll give it more thought. If I tell you I’m down to do it…

Candy: You can bet that that’s what I’m writing down tonight. I’ll let you think things through. I’ll talk to Constance, you get back to us whenever you’re ready.

Later in the day…

Candy is walking with Constance in the woods.

Candy: I have good news. Well, it’s just news. No telling if it’s good or bad just yet, but…

Constance: It’s okay. You can tell me. [giggling]

Candy stops to face her, panting slightly with excitement.

Candy: I think Maverick might actually want to pull off a blindside on Markus tonight.

Constance: Are you serious?

Candy: Yeah. He talked to me about it. I get the sense he’s still struggling with whether or not he really wants to pull the trigger tonight, but if he does…

Constance: We’ll both still be around in the morning.

Candy: Precisely!

Constance: Do you have faith he’ll actually go through with it?

Candy: There’s no way to know for sure. It does stink of a rash move, but if he can be swayed to go along with the idea, then...we’re golden. All we need is our three votes, and we have the majority.

Constance: Wouldn’t you rather go for Lisa?

Candy: I would. Of course I would! I feel bad because I do genuinely like Markus. He’s a decent guy, and he actually pulls his weight unlike Lisa does. And I know Carter would be disappointed. Plus, there’s a lot of bad blood between Lisa and I and the rest of Vailheu that I would love to be able to just [mimes washing hands] wash away in an instant. But we don’t hold enough power tonight. At the end of the day, our situation is far from ideal to begin with. And there’s no doubt Markus is a huge threat in this game if we let him make a deep enough run. I’m content following Maverick’s lead and letting him be the one calling the shots tonight. We don’t need to always be the ones handling all the power. Right now, survival is the only thing on my mind.

The clouds pass by at a rapid pace. As the day begins to finally wind down, the camera cuts to Maverick still sitting in the same spot, lost in his own thoughts as he watches the dying embers of the fire.

Markus is near him, putting on his shoes, and he gives the latter a friendly slap on the back.

Markus: You good? You look focused.

Maverick: Yeah, I’m good. Just thinking about stuff. [laughing]

Markus: Heh. Alright…

Maverick licks his lips, turning away with a slight tinge of remorse on his face.

The sun sets as the camera pans back to reveal the five members of Pamanzi walking down the beach, headed for Tribal.

At Tribal Council…

Four torches light the way as the new Pamanzi tribe enters the set. Constance is looking around in awe, mouthing “Wow” to herself as she takes it all in.

Jeff: Constance, behind you is a torch. Grab it, dip it in and get fire.

Constance grabs her torch as the other four take their seats.

Jeff: In this game, fire represents your life. When your fire is gone, so are you.

Constance sets her torch down in its spot and takes her seat between Candy and Maverick.

Lisa watches her sit down and smiles snidely.

Jeff: Let’s get straight into unpacking the new dynamics of this tribe. Of all three tribes after the swap, this tribe seems to have the most variety in that we have two pairs of players who’ve been together from the start, and then there’s you, Constance, sitting squarely in the middle.

Constance: [chuckling] Very astute observation, Jeff.

Jeff: We’ve already touched on this before, on the same day you tossed your red buff and drew a new one. But let me ask you this question again, now that you’ve all had some time to settle in. How do you feel about your new tribe now, Constance, that you’ve lost a challenge and are at Tribal Council?

Maverick cocks his head sideways to look at her answer.

Constance: Well...it’s interesting to be attending my very first Tribal Council, yet to be attending it with people I’ve only known for three days rather than the people I spent the first nine with, especially since they’ve all known their respective partners for close to two weeks now. Candy and Lisa are together, and then Markus and Maverick. Being on my own, it’s definitely unnerving still. That’s not to say the others haven’t done their best to make me feel comfortable, which is saying something, considering I have been on the same familiar beach for twelve days now. [chuckling]

Markus smiles dryly.

Constance: But yes, to answer your question...like my previous tribe, this one has ups and downs too. Whether it’s better or worse than the original Pamanzi tribe...we did lose this challenge, so there’s something to be said about that, and that we need to fight even harder to prove our salt in the next one. But these people, they’re all nice and I’m glad to get to know them and they me.

Candy smiles warmly at that.

Jeff: Markus, that felt like a very long answer that ultimately didn’t really answer my question.

Constance laughs again, looking embarrassed.

Markus clears his throat.

Markus: I think everyone’s a little on edge, which is to be expected from Tribal Council. Constance’s fears are completely valid, being on a new tribe when it’s her first Tribal Council, and having little to no clue what to expect from the whole procedure.

Jeff: Speaking of which, though, you are no stranger to Tribals like these, as you’ve obviously attended countless Tribal Councils before.

Markus: Correct.

Jeff: But also, you’re not the only one, because Maverick, Candy and Lisa have all attended Tribal Councils too. Let’s talk now about previous tribe dynamics. Lisa, will the results of previous votes come into play into tonight’s?

Lisa: Oh, definitely, Jeff. I was waiting for a question like that.

Candy bites her lip, turning away to glance at Maverick. He raises an eyebrow at her, grinning slightly.

Jeff: Cutting to the chase, I see.

Lisa: Yeah, absolutely. I think it’s very fair to say that...one’s past always comes back to haunt them. I think tribe swaps always make for the most interesting Tribal Councils because that’s when your previous actions return to bite people in the butts.

Jeff: What do you mean by that, Lisa?

Lisa: I want to say that...I felt very alone on my last tribe. I was sure I was leaving the game three days ago. If you’d told me three days ago that I’d be here talking to you again, tonight, I wouldn’t have believed you. That’s how sure I was leaving at that last Tribal Council. I mean, you were there, Jeff! You saw the way the last Tribal went down for me! [laughing]

Jeff: That’s true, but Markus, Maverick and Constance weren’t.

Lisa: Well, yeah, but basically...yeah, it was rough. And I think we’re kidding ourselves if we say our original tribe dynamics and relationships won’t come into play at all now that we’re a “new tribe”. I haven’t forgotten that easily.

Jeff: Candy, you’re the only person here who was at that Tribal Council and can attest to what Lisa’s saying about how rough it was for her. Does it give you concern that she’s being so vocal about past tribal dynamics now that you’re on a new tribe, and we’re about to vote someone out?

Candy: ...I mean, yes, it does. Obviously, it would unnerve anyone, Jeff, especially since I was led to believe this afternoon that me and Lisa had more or less buried the hatchet about stuff that may have transpired while we were on Vailheu together.

Jeff: So let me get this straight. You were under the impression that you and Lisa had, as you say, buried the hatchet? And yet here she is now, at Tribal Council, saying, basically, that she doesn’t forgive and doesn’t forget.

Candy: What she said about the past coming back to haunt you is worrisome. Because I can’t help but feel that statement was very pointedly...directed at me. I mean, she can only obviously be talking about me! No one else from our original tribe is here right now, tonight. So…

Jeff: Do you think there are plans for revenge going on tonight?

Lisa is chewing on her tongue, a sly expression on her face.

Candy: I think...dreaming of or being motivated by ideas of revenge or to get back at someone over a grudge...is a very shortsighted way to play the game. I think your decisions on Survivor should be motivated by...what’s best for your game, not necessarily what’s the more satisfying or the more tolerable option. Sometimes, in Survivor, you need to make peace with people you don’t always get along with, because you may need their votes to stay alive. Harboring grudges won’t get you far.

Lisa: I want to point something out, Jeff.

Jeff: Go ahead.

Lisa: Candy, right now, I think, is getting herself worked up over no reason. I not once said I was putting her name out there and I think she’s freaking out over my comments earlier, so I want to clarify that...past tribal dynamics will always and should come into play in the game, even when on a new tribe. That does not mean I am not working with her.

Candy stares at her, then glances at Maverick over Lisa’s shoulder. Maverick raises an eyebrow.

Jeff: Markus, even as I sit here right now, I have no idea where this supposed feud is going.

Markus: You tell me. [laughing] One moment Lisa says she hasn’t forgotten about the last Tribal Council which puts Candy on edge and the next moment, she’s saying all is fine and forgiven. You can never really know who’s being genuine and who’s just blowing smoke up your ass in this game.

Jeff: So how do you ensure that the people who talk to you about the plan for the Tribal ahead...actually are being genuine with you and not, as you say, blowing smoke up your ass?

Markus: You can only really trust your gut in those scenarios. It’s a combination of gut instinct as well as observing common tells, picking up on subtle signs and suspicious body language…

Jeff: Would you say that, as a previous winner, you have more experience in that?

Markus: I don’t want to toot my own horn. I do have more experience, having played before, but that doesn’t mean I could never be fooled.

The camera cuts to Maverick biting his lower lip at this. Constance inhales sharply, stretching out her arms.

Jeff: Maverick, if people’s past tribes are really going to come into play tonight, that would make the obvious option being that there are two original Vailheu members, going up against two original Mwali members. Then there’s Constance sitting pretty in the middle, either the easy obvious boot or the crucial swing vote. But with Lisa and Candy beating around the bush about whether or not they truly are still working together and have made up, is everything still up in the air?

Maverick: I agree that it’s all up in the air. There are only five people here, Jeff! Only four options for whose name you put down. And while past tribal dynamics are important and do play a role, they don’t cement the lines drawn in the sand. Maybe Lisa and Candy are still working together, or maybe that’s a possibility long dead and buried. Who knows? But it isn’t always as simple as, “oh, we were on the same tribe together so we definitely have to vote together”. That may happen tonight, and it may not. But I think it’s a gross oversimplification to think that that’s the only way this vote will play out. Everyone should be thinking about...how each and every vote they cast benefits their own individual game, and plan out their Tribal Councils moving forward in that manner. That’s what I’m going to do, and I hope everyone else is thinking along the same lines.

Candy nods approvingly. Markus is pondering his words thoughtfully.

Jeff: I think there’s no better time to figure out where the lines are drawn in the sand than the present. It is...time to vote. Markus, you’re up.

Markus gets up to vote. The camera cuts to Candy turning to watch him, the flickering fire throwing ominous shadows across her face.

Maverick looks like he is pondering quietly, resting his chin on one hand and silently running one finger over his upper lip. Lisa looks antsy, bobbing her head up and down, staring off into space.

One by one, the tribe heads up to vote.

The camera shows Lisa holding up her vote with a devious little smile.

The camera cuts back to Candy, eyes wide and frightful, as she swallows.

The camera fades back to Constance walking up to the voting booth, then cuts to Candy drawing a broken heart next to Markus’ name, and then holding up her vote.

The camera cuts to Markus with his arms crossed over his chest, gazing off into the distance, drumming his leg up and down.

Finally, Maverick is shown walking up to the voting booth, shaking the tension loose from his arms before picking up the pen.

Constance is shown sitting up straight in her seat, hands clasped in her lap. Lisa is looking on at Maverick writing down his vote with narrowed eyes.

The camera cuts back as Maverick returns from the voting booth and takes his seat.

Jeff: I’ll go tally the votes.

He leaves.

Lisa watches him go, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Markus is brooding in a corner, rubbing his hands together before lowering his head with a sigh. Maverick glances his way, then turns to look at Candy, who is shutting her eyes and taking a deep breath.

Jeff returns.

Jeff: If anyone has the hidden immunity idol and you want to play it, now would be the time to do so.

Candy leans back to look at Lisa.

Lisa’s eyes are darting around the floor, avoiding everyone’s gazes obstinately.

Maverick is biting his tongue, watching her and Markus both.

Markus’ brow furrows as he rests his chin on his fist, drumming his fingers against his mouth.

Lisa looks up at Jeff, brushing her hair aside confidently.

Markus exhales slowly…

...and remains seated.

Jeff: ...Alright. Once the votes are read, the decision is final. Person voted out will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I’ll read the votes.

He opens the urn.

Candy swallows with a bit of difficulty, leaning forward on her elbows.

Maverick glances at her, then back to Markus, who is watching him intently.

Jeff: First vote...Candy. (1-0)

A scared little grimace comes onto Candy’s face and she nods nervously.

The camera cuts to the smug smile of anticipation on Lisa’s face.

Jeff: Markus. (1-1)

Markus sits up straighter, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Jeff: Candy. Two votes Candy, one vote Markus. (2-1)

Candy shuts her eyes again, lowering her head and drumming her fingers on her knee.

Constance swallows, her attention focused on the votes being read.

Jeff: ...Markus. We are tied.

Markus narrows his eyes, glancing sideways at Maverick, who is ignoring him.

Jeff: That’s two votes Markus, two votes Candy...one vote left. (2-2)

Markus winces, an embarrassed little smile appearing on his lips.

Markus: Oof…[laughing]

Lisa scrunches up her face in bewilderment, shaking her head.

Candy opens her eyes finally, letting out a long, slow breath.

Markus licks his lips, his head shaking slightly. Maverick finally casts him a small look out of the corner of his eye, watching for his reaction.

Jeff: ...Fourth person voted out of Survivor: Champions and Contenders…

…

…

…

Jeff: ...Markus.

Markus breaks out into a shaky grin, pressing his palm to his forehead. Lisa’s jaw drops.

Jeff: You need to bring me your torch. (Final Tally: 3-2)

Markus nods resignedly, smiling at the others. He reaches out and grabs Maverick’s shoulder, squeezing.

Markus: Nice one…

Maverick shrugs sheepishly, smiling.

Maverick: Sorry.

Markus: It’s cool...

Candy lets out a sigh of relief, her shoulders sagging and she nods her thanks to Constance on her left, and then Maverick on her right as Markus gets to his feet. Maverick’s eyes are shining, following Markus as the latter picks up his things and gets to his feet.

Lisa: [whispering] What the [censored]?

Lisa is visibly confused still, and more than a little ticked off. Maverick is chuckling under his breath, spinning in his seat to look as Markus takes his torch down to Jeff. The camera cuts to Candy gulping, watching Markus with a bit of guilt written on her face, while Constance reaches out to rub her thigh in a comforting gesture.

Markus puts his torch down with a bang.

Jeff: Markus…

Markus chuckles sheepishly, with a casual wave of his hand.

Markus: I know...

Jeff: The tribe has spoken. [snuffs torch]

Markus’s smile subsides a little, revealing genuine disappointment as his fire is reduced to smoke for his first time.

Jeff: Time for you to go.

Markus turns around.

Markus: Good play, guys. Really. No hard feelings, it’s a killer game...respect to all of y’all. Have a good game.

He leaves as the others wave.

Candy: [blows kiss] Bye, Markus...you did great, sorry...

Constance: Goodbye…[waves]

Maverick: Sorry, man.

Lisa does not wave back, still looking lost.

Jeff: We are only four Tribal Councils into the season and already, that’s the second Champion to go down.

Candy is grinning despite herself, and Maverick is sharing in her excitement, nodding at her.

Jeff: It is evident that despite this being your first season, all of you are here to play and play hard, and it is only going to get crazier and more chaotic from here. Grab your stuff, head back to camp. Goodnight.

Final Words
Markus: [laughing, spreading hands wide] Okay...I guess I was the idiot who went home with an idol in his pocket this season. Man...I’m gonna be kicking myself in the ass for messing this up for a long time. I blame no one but myself for not seeing the signs. I focused so much on the bad blood between Lisa and Candy that I completely overlooked Maverick. I trusted him too much and didn’t think he would betray me, which was stupid! He helped vote Erin out. I can’t believe I was so dumb. I was so sure that Maverick wasn’t lying to me, that he could see sense and that voting me out of this already weaker tribe was going to be bad for them moving forward, but...I suppose he was willing to take the risk in order to vote out a big threat. I give him credit where it’s due: he got me good. But I also think he’s playing way too risky of a game. That being said, I knew I had my work cut out for me this season and I’m disappointed, obviously, because I love this game and I would’ve loved to have kept playing it. Still...I had a great Survivor run before. What makes this game so great is you can do so well playing from the bottom on one season, and then get completely blindsided and sent home before the merge on another. Survivor’s wild and it’s brutal, but that’s why I love it and why it’s so great to play. Mad respect to those of them who voted me out, and...I’ll be rooting for them to win a challenge.

Next Time on Survivor...

 * The Godfather can't decide which target to line up in the crosshairs…

Blake is scratching his beard, sitting with Hazel as he watches Carter and Kelli talking down by the shore.

Blake: One's gotta go…

"mwali"

- I thought Carter should for sure be the one leaving. But now, I wonder...could there be merit in following through with the "plan" I told him, and taking Kelli out instead?


 * No matter who she ends up with, Lisa continues to aggravate her tribe…

Lisa lies in bed, buff over her face, grumbling.

Lisa: I literally am going to wither away if we don't win this [censored] reward.

Maverick facepalms. Constance has an extremely tired look on her face.


 * And a battle for power between the Queen Bee and the Golden Boy begins to brew…

Randall is sitting with Mallorie by the rocks.

Randall: Elmer is coming after you. I'm telling you, I want to vote him off, and we have the numbers to make it happen.

"vailheu"

- ...This game just got very interesting.


 * But an unexpected twist threatens to throw a wrench into the mix…

Jeff: Only one tribe will win immunity today.

Hazel has an extremely shocked look on her face. Maverick whistles.

Jeff: The two losing tribes will attend Tribal Council...together.

Candy: What the heeeck…

Lisa: We are so [censored] screwed.

Maverick: [irritated] Calm down.

Lisa: No! We’re screwed.