This Could Be the Heist of the Millennium!

This is the Season Finale of Survivor: Bermuda - Brain vs Brawn vs Beauty

Challenges
Immunity Challenge: (Day 37) Giant Tick Each person will race through a giant obstacle course. They will each go to six stations over different obstacles and collect six bags of puzzle pieces along the way. They will then use those pieces to solve a puzzle. The first to finish wins immunity.

Winner: TBD

Immunity Challenge: (Day 38) Operation Balance Build The castaways used a long pole to maneuver a wooden bowl around a metal rod structure; they would then balance the bowl on the top of the structure. The structure is mounted on a spring, so the structure would sway if the castaway touches the structure while maneuvering the bowl, possibly toppling the bowls from the top of the structure. The first to stack thirteen bowls on top won immunity.

Winner: TBD

Night 35
(Following Adrian's elimination, the Final Five make their way back to camp and lean their torches against the tree.)

Phyllis: Well, looks like karma bit me right in the butt tonight! (laughs)

Will: That's right. Does it feel nice? (laughs) That's what happens when you try to pull one over me.

(With a smirk, Will heads for the shelter. His confessional is heard over the top.)

"vireo"

- I said that I was going to blindside Adrian tonight and that's exactly what I did. My plan worked perfectly; Jacob and Oswald bought everything I told them and now I'm guaranteed Final Three because no one's going to be stupid enough to let Jacob and Oswald go that far. What's even better is that Adrian bought my bull and actually voted for Jacob. Idiot. I always had Veronica's vote on my side so I was getting the numbers no matter what. Now, no one has anything they can pull over me at Tribal, because any time someone got the better of me, I burned them. Things are looking brilliantly for me. In a few days, I'm going to be a million dollars richer.

(Veronica looks over at this exchange and shakes her head.)

Veronica: Of course.

"vireo"

- I'm not surprised in the slightest that Will's convinced he pulled this move off, but what nobody knows is that I was the one pulling the strings tonight. I knew who everyone was voting for and I had three different options. In the end I chose to stick with Will and get rid of Adrian. The thing is, yes people might think I just followed Will, but at this stage of the game and with the heat I'm already going to get, it didn't make much sense for me to betray anyone else. Will's also been the one who stuck by me through a lot of stuff, so I felt like I owed him in that sense. I just wish he wasn't being so cocky about it.

(Following this, the camera transitions to Jacob as the music grows sad. He heaves a deep sigh, leaning his torch against the tree.)

Oswald: You okay, buddy?

Jacob: Yeah... no... kinda? That just sucked.

Oswald: You know we made the right decision, don't you?

Jacob: Yeah, it's just... I mean, I wanted to make that decision and I knew I had to, but it still sucks. (sigh)

"vireo"

- Tonight I voted my best friend out of the game. It soothed the pain a little bit knowing that he voted for me as well, but it still really hurt to have to do. Adrian and I bonded so closely on such a deep personal level that voting him out just seemed... wrong, and I struggled so badly, but I had to do it to advance my game. At least he took it well and knew it was a strategic move, because I was so terrified he'd feel I abused his homophobia situation for nothing more than game. There's no doubt in my mind that Adrian and I can be best friends once this game is done but, for now, I have to make sure that I win this thing. I know it's going to be tough from here, but I can't let that Adrian vote be for absolutely nothing. I owe it to him and to me.

Oswald: You know our go plan from here, don't you? We've got one shot at this and it's playing the emotional route to get Veronica on our side.

Jacob: Yep, I know the plan. Don't worry.

Oswald: Good! If we can get through this next vote, we're fine. We just need to focus all our energy on this plan working out.

(As he and Jacob head back to the shelter, the camera focuses on Oswald, who is smiling.)

"vireo"

- Voting out Adrian was the easy choice 'cause the kid's smart and a really dangerous player and even though the target would've been less on our backs, we would've been stomped to high heaven if we took him with us any further. I feel genuinely bad for Jacob, because I saw how badly it hurt him to even think about voting for Adrian and it can't have been easy, but he knew exactly the same thing I did. A big part of the decision for me was that he's the next best in challenges and I want to make those things as easy as possible just for added security in case our plan falls flat. Our next move is playing the emotional card and getting Veronica to take us to the end because she thinks we deserve it more. She's well aware that she's not winning so I think that's giving her a little more freedom to play with her heart over her head. I've genuinely enjoyed talking to and getting to know Veronica and I think she enjoys my company too. As for Jacob? That kid could make anyone like him. Hopefully that counts for something and we can pull ourselves one step closer to the end. We've got one shot left: I want the win just as much as any of these guys, so I'm focusing all my energy into making sure that happens.

Day 36
The camera opens on Day 36 with the castaways sitting around the fire as Phyllis dishes out the morning meal.

Phyllis: Final Five, you guys! Can you believe it?

Jacob: I never thought I'd get this far. It's amazing!

Phyllis: I couldn't agree more. I thought I'd be lucky to just make the merge, but no, I'm sitting here with a one in five shot at winning! Just curious, and you don't have to answer, but what would you all do with the money?

Will: Spend it.

Phyllis: (laughs) I know you'd spend it, but what on? I think I'd like to take the family on one last trip together. Obviously nothing too far, but I'd like for us to have some memories with Patrick before he gets too... Anyway, I'd also like to spruce up the home a little, maybe help out with my children and grandchildren.

Will: I'd buy myself a fantastic house and get a new car I'd start treating myself a little more than I do, because obviously the salary of a waiter isn't much. I deserve to eat a little fancier.

Veronica: You'd spend it all on yourself? Not anything with your girlfriend?

Will: Obviously she's encompassed in all that, but who else would I spend it on? I don't have seven children and an army of grandchildren, I don't have a dying mother or father; my life has been about me for a long time. I've only recently even gotten a girlfriend. Sure, I'd loan my siblings something if they needed it, but it really shouldn't be any surprise to you that I'd want to spend it all on myself.

Veronica: Okay! Well we all know I'm not going to get the money, but in some crazy alternate universe where I came out on top, first I'd put some money away for my daughters to go to college if they wanted to. Then I'd pay the mortgage off the house and just spoil Clarke and I. I'd take us on a lovely, romantic holiday where we could finally have some time to ourselves. (laughs)

Will: Please... I'm eating.

Veronica: (laughs) Oh, Will. What about you, Jacob?

Jacob: Dude, I'm 26, that's money would be life changing! It'd ease so much stress for me financially. I've got a deposit on a house and I'd be able to pay off the entire thing; I could afford to renovate and change things up. Like Will said, I could eat fancier and I could afford to treat myself a little more. I'd give a bit back to my Mom too. She's really helped me out a lot in life and I couldn't have gotten to this stage without her.

Phyllis: (smiles) That's really sweet.

Oswald: First thing I'd do is put my kids through college. We never went 'cause we couldn't afford it. I want them to have those opportunities, and one of my boys is particularly wanting to go. I'd spend it on the family, upgrading and everything. It'd ease a lot of pressure off us financially. I mean, there's times we've struggled to make ends meet, and I don't mind y'all knowing that 'cause y'all know about my family already. It'd certainly be very useful, that's for sure.

Veronica: Awww! That's lovely!

Phyllis: Isn't this a lovely conversation to have over breakfast? From what you've all said., I wish they could declare us joint winners so we'd all have that million to spend!

"vireo"

- I know we're playing a game and we're at the Final Five, but... we're at the Final Five! Waking up this morning and realising it put everyone in a great mood. We were able to just sit down and talk about our lives and what we'd do with the money. Usually everyone's rushing through breakfast because we all have to get off and strategise, or we neeed to run over something, but it was almost like a family meal. We ate slowly, we talked, and we listened and we got to know a little more about each person. It was a fantastic way to start the day.

(Following Phyllis' confessional, the camera picks up again as the castaways have finished their breakfast. Will approaches Phyllis and taps her on the shoulder.)

Will: I need to talk to you.

Phyllis: Okay, let's go.

(Will waits for Phyllis to stand up before the two of them walk off together. The camera picks up on them as they walk through the forest.)

Will: Phyllis, I know you're not actually stupid despite some questioning contrasting evidence. You know we have to go to the Final Three together, don't you?

Phyllis: Yes, absolutely. If anyone goes against Oswald or Jacob they're getting decimated. I'm not going to give them a chance.

Will: Good. We bring Veronica and it comes down to the two of us. Nobody's voting for her.

Phyllis: I wouldn't be surprised if Luca did, but that's the only vote I realistically see her getting. The other eight would come down to us. I'm just nervous now that Adrian's gone; he was the only one other than Oswald who had won a challenge, I don't want Oswald to sweep the last two challenges because if he does, he wins just because he's more popular with the Jury.

Will: I can beat Oswald easily. Don't worry, he's on his way out.

Phyllis: (raises eyebrows) Really?

Will: Don't say "really" like that. Of course I can beat him. I'm strong, I'm good at puzzles. I've got his number, bet on it.

Phyllis: If you say so, just as long as there's no funny business and we're definitely going to the end. You're not still mad at me over Maria, are you?

Will: No, of course not. I got you back for that so I don't care anymore. We're fine, now stop stressing. I've got this under control.

"vireo"

- I'm extremely confident in everything. Last night's vote went exactly as I planned and now, Phyllis has fallen into my trap and is forced to take me to the Final Three, where I know I'll beat her. I've got Veronica with me, who isn't turning at all, so there's my Final Three done. Phyllis is carrying on about Oswald winning the last two challenges but I'm not worried at all. I know I can beat him because I want it. He's the only tiny little obstacle that could prevent me from getting to the end. I'll never let that happen so I'll just have to crush him. You would have to shoot me, dissect my body into a million pieces, bury me underground and then fill the hole with cement to stop me from winning immunity tomorrow. Then, I'll go on to win the game because everyone knows I've played better than these other two. Everything is going perfectly.

(The two of them nod and head back to camp. The camera focuses on Phyllis, who is smiling.)

"vireo"

- Will's certainly not selling himself short on his chances of winning immunity tomorrow. If confidence was food he'd have enough to feed a nation for the rest of their lives. Oswald winning the last two challenges is a very legitimate concern because if he does, he's going to shut me out at Final Tribal. If Will manages to pull it out, though, my Final Three is sealed. Will's extremely certain, I think, that he can beat me but I think I've got his number. I've made stronger bonds and I've had more strategic control on the game. Will thinks he got me back but I still have an advantage over him, not that I'll let him know that! (laughs) I'll just keep letting him ride this enormous wave of confidence all the way to the end. When he crashes and burns, I'll be right there to take the title!

(Following this, there is a transitioning shot of the waves on the beach, before the camera picks up on Oswald and Jacob, who are sitting on the beach talking.)

Oswald: Can you believe we're at the Final Five?

Jacob: Nope! I'm so glad we had those two idols at the Final Eight, though. We completely changed the game right there. All we have to do is get Veronica to side with us and we've pretty much made the Final Three.

Oswald: Damn, imagine that. Final Three! If you'd've told me I'd have even a chance in Hell at getting close to it when I came into the merge, I'd have laughed. But now, we're nearly there! I bet Lorraine's gonna be so proud of me. Gosh, I wish she could have come and seen this camp. We share everything together.

Jacob: Yeah, it sucks that we never got to meet her. You guys seemed like the loveliest couple.

Oswald: We were friends from the day we met and we've been each other's sweethearts almost as long. Now I've been married to her for twenty-three years and each day my love for her just grows stronger and stronger. Every morning, when I wake up next to her, it's a blessing. When I turn on the lights in my butchery and head to work every single morning, she's my motivation. Knowing that we've brought five amazing kids into this world fills me with so much joy. Just thinking about when she's going to see this, I know she'd be proud of me regardless, but that money would mean so much to her. She deserves everything.

Jacob: Aww, that's the sweetest thing ever! She's gonna be so happy you made it this far. I'm kinda nervous about playing the game, to be honest, and I have been since we started. I know my mom was joking about the family legacy when she found out I got cast, but it weighs on my mind a lot. Like. I've finished higher than her now, but I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing yet. (giggles) Half the time I've felt like a complete flop because everything I did seemed to go wrong and other times I feel like I've been doing well;. I think I've played fine overall, but, like, it always lingered in the back of my mind that people would compare me to my mom.

Oswald: You shouldn't worry about that. If anyone's gonna compare you to your mom, they're going to point out the personality quirks and what a great pair of people you are. You shouldn't expect to come out here and emulate your mom's game exactly because you're two different people.

Jacob: Yeah. I'm a twenty-six year old guy whose only experience with the outdoors is walking around at five in the morning to get coffee, or walking my dogs in the park  I don't have as much life experience as her and I'm definitely not as smart, but what I do know how to do is make friends and stick with them. Hopefully that counts for something, right?

Oswald: It damn well does and I know you've made some fantastic friends out here, myself included. It doesn't matter that votes haven't gone your way or anything, because we're still here and we're still in with a chance. You and I have stuck together since the Final Nine and we've gone through all the ups and downs of the game. As long as we stick to the Final Three bond, everything's going to sit well for us. I just have a feeling. You're a great guy, Jacob. You shouldn't doubt yourself.

Jacob: Thanks, dude. You're a pretty awesome guy yourself. I'm really glad we've become close, because I totally wouldn't have met anyone like you in real life.

Oswald: That's the beauty of this game, my friend. I don't meet a lot of people like you, either, but I'm lucky I did.

Jacob: Yep! And you bet I'm sticking with you. (laughs) Won't the look on Will's face be amazing if we get that third vote on our side?

Oswald: (laughs) Oh, that'd be worth a million in itself.

(The two of them continue laughing. The camera focuses on Oswald, who is beaming.)

"vireo"

- Jacob's a hell of a guy, he really is. I don't know what it is about him, but he's one of the sweetest people and has this crazy ability to make deep, genuine friendships. I was drawn to him initially only strategically, but as we bonded and became closer, it became less about the strategy and more about the personality. If there's one guy in this game I had to ride or die with, I'm glad it's him. We've been through a lot together and to think we've survived this long is amazing. I want this Final Three with him to work and I know it will, but regardless, I know we're going to be friends after this game ends. Don't get me wrong, I'm still playing the game and I still want to win for my wife, but if I had to lose a million dollars to anyone, it'd be him, no question. You know what'd make me even happier, though? Me winning. I'm sure Jacob will be happy enough with the runner-up prize. (laughs)

(The camera then focuses on Jacob, who is also smiling.)

"vireo"

- Oz and I are such a great duo because we just get along. He's a lovely guy with an amazing family and a lot of personal reasons for going after the money. The way he talks about his wife is the same kind of relationship I aspire to have one day. It reminds me of the time I spent with Louis and how happy we made each other and... gaah, okay, I'll shut up about that now. (laughs) But seriously, like, Oz is just such a great guy. I make friends really, really easily and I expected to get along with people like Adrian and Misty, but if you told me that one of my best friends out here was gonna be some fifty-one year old dude I would have doubted you. It's great that we've gone so far together after being the two on the bottom. I'd kill to see the pissed off look on Will's face when we beat him at this vote, and I really, really want this Veronica plan to come through for the both of us but... could I beat Oz in the end? I'd like to hope so, but I have been kinda floppy when it comes to the strategic game. I want to go to the end with Oswald, but I also wanted to keep Adrian. I knew I couldn't do that and I didn't. If I can't beat Oz, then sorryyyy, he's probably gonna have to go. I'd be thrilled if he won the money, but I wanna win it too.

Immunity Challenge
Jeff: Come on in, guys!

(The Final Five walk in and stand on the mat.)

Jeff: You guys ready to get to today's immunity challenge?

Castaways: Yes!

Jeff: Okay, first thing's  first, Oswald I need to take it back.

(Jeff takes the necklace off Oswald and hangs it up on the pole.)

Jeff: Immunity is, once again, back up for grabs. For today's challenge, you'll race through a giant obstacle course, with six different stations, collecting a bag of puzzle pieces at each one. Once you have all six bags, you'll use the pieces to solve a puzzle. First person to solve their puzzle wins immunity and is guaranteed a one in four shot at winning the game. We'll draw for spots and then we'll get started,

(The castaways are awaiting Jeff's signal.)

Jeff: For a guaranteed spot in the Final Four, Survvors ready? GO!

Challenge Summary: 
 * Will and Oswald got out to quick leads as they raced through the course. Phyllis and Jacob weren't far behind, with Veronica making up the rear. Oswald got his first bag quickly, Will not far behind;. As they raced for their second, each taking off in different directions, Phyllis and Jacob grabbed their first.
 * Oswald maintained his lead in grabbing the second bag, but Will was again very close. As the former took off for his third bag, Will followed, so he'd force Oswald to wait for him to pass through at the third station. This worked, cutting Oswald's lead slightly, but he still maintained the slimmest edge. As they ran for their fourth bags, Phyllis picked up her second and made her way for the third, while Jacob picked his second not long after.
 * Oswald managed to extend his lead in grabbing the fourth bag, while Will was slowed down, forced to wait for Phyllis to come through after he grabbed his fourth bag. This allowed her to grab the third bag, staying in the hunt.
 * Will's running made up the slightest ground on bag number five, but Oswald still maintained the lead as he raced off for his final bag, Will in hot pursuit. Phyllis grabbed her fourth bag and was well on her way to the fifth when Oswald arrived at bag number six, taking it a few moments before Will.
 * Oswald beat Will back to the puzzle station, giving him a head start. He got a couple of pieces in before Will arrived, at which point Phyllis grabbed her sixth bag and was on the way back. Will  made some progress as Oswald began to get a little lost.
 * Will soon overtook Oswald but the latter was still well in the hunt as he figured out the puzzle soon after, closing in on Will quickly. Phyllis arrived back at the station and began working on her puzzle too, sliding in some pieces with ease. She made quick work, but was a little too far behind the two leading men. Oswald continued to make up little bits of time and it came down to an extremely close finish. In the end...


 * Will was able to maintain the slimmest of leads and got his last piece in a couple of moments before Oswald, giving the former the win.

Jeff: WILL WINS IMMUNITY AND A GUARANTEED SPOT IN THE FINAL FOUR!

Will: (immediately throws his fists in the air) YES! ''YES! (Will pumps his fist as a huge grin comes on his face, while Oswald places the last piece in and sighs.)''

Oswald: So damn close...

(Phyllis smiles and congratulates Will, who still maintains a wide grin, before there is a timeskip and the castaways are back on the mat.)

Jeff: Will, come on over.

(Will continues smiling as he walks over, allowing Jeff to put the necklace on him.)

Jeff: Cannot wipe the smile off your face!

Will: I knew I'd get this one today.

Jeff: Will, you're safe and guaranteed a spot in the Final Four. As for the rest of you, someone's journey for the million dollars is going to fall just two days short as they become the fourteenth person voted out and the eighth member of the Jury. You have the afternoon to figure out who that's going to be. You guys can head back to camp. I'll see you at Tribal.

(The Final Five depart the challenge area, the camera focusing on Will's grin.)

Vireo Tribe
(Following Will's immunity win, the castaways head back to camp. Will is still smiling.)

Phyllis: Congratulations, Will! I can't believe you pulled that off.

Will: I can. I knew I was going to.

Veronica: I can't believe how close it was! It really went down to the wire.

Will: Close or not, the important thing is that I won it.

(Will hangs the necklace up outside the shelter. The camera focuses on him as his confessional is heard.)

"vireo"

- What did I say I was going to do today? Win the immunity necklace. What did I do? Exactly that. I told you, when I'm determined to get things my way, I get them done. Now I have the necklace around my neck, but the most important thing is Oswald does not, so Oswald's going home tonight. That's not even me being cocky. I'm stating a logical next step, which should occur unless Veronica starts playing with her heart and gives it to Oswald over Phyllis because he's the "good guy" or something. I don't need to strategise tonight because that's done already. Tonight it's my job to keep watch on Veronica and if I see the others working her, I need to rope her back in and make sure things run smoothly.

(The camera then focuses on Oswald, who looks on enviously.)

Oswald: So damn close!

Jacob: Don't worry, we've still got one shot left! We just need to vote Phyllis and hope Veronica comes with us.

Oswald: We gotta go balls to the wall, my friend.

"vireo"

- Son of a damn bitch! (laughs) I was two seconds away! I had the lead but I lost it on that bitch of a puzzle! That necklace don't wanna come anyone's way more than three times, huh? Maria got it thrice, I got it thrice, and the one time I probably need it more than anything is when I don't have it. I know there's about a ninety percent chance of me going home tonight and these guys probably think there's a solid three against me, but I've got one last trick up my sleeve. I'm gonna throw everything I've got at this thing. Will's been smiling ever since that necklace went 'round him but, if I have anything to say about it, that smile's gonna vanish by the end of tonight! I'm not down and out yet, buddy. Not by a long shot. (laughs)

(From here, the camera transitions to Will, Phyllis and Veronica as they talk about the vote.)

Will: There's no doubt that Oswald has to go home.

Phyllis: I could not agree more. If he wins that Final Immunity, we may as well just pack up and go home.

Will: Good. Do you  agree, Veronica?

Veronica: Well, yeah...

Will: We can't afford to waver. If the two of them survive, then it's going to be a tie at the Final Four and they'll probably pick you just so they can beat you and get in to the end.

Veronica: Would you even consider Jacob?

Will: No. Jacob's no threat to win the immunity challenge, Oswald is. If we get him out, I can easily win the Final Immunity Challenge and then we're in the Final Three.

Veronica: Okay, then. I'll vote Oswald with you guys.

Will: Good. This should be the easiest vote in the world.

Phyllis: I'm just so excited you got that necklace today! You really saved our bacon, Will.

Will: That's what I'm good at. (smiles)

(The three of them begin to go separate ways. The camera focuses on Phyllis, who is excited.)

"vireo"

- I can't tell you how elated I am that Will pulled out that win today! If Oswald had gotten it, he'd be in the Final Four and could easily have gone to the end, but now we have the votes lined up to send him home. I have no doubt that I'm getting two votes tonight because they'll try and work Veronica. It does linger in the back of my mind that Veronica is an emotional player and she could decide to go with Oswald and Jacob because she likes them better, but if Veronica goes against us here she might not even make it to the end, and if she does, she's screwed two people out of a million dollars. That's going to be some catastrophic Jury heat for her that I know she won't be able to, nor want, to handle. I'm pretty confident logic will prevail here.

(Following this, the camera focuses on Veronica after walking away from the group. She is approached by Oswald and Jacob.)

Jacob: Hey, Veronica!

Veronica: Hey guys!

Oswald: I'm gonna come right out with it. It's pretty safe to assume they're voting me tonight, right?

Veronica: You don't have an idol or anything, do you?

Oswald: If I could pull another idol out of my ass I don't reckon we'd be having this conversation. (laughs) I've got nothing but my mouth and my brain to help  me out tonight.

Veronica: Then, yes, they've asked me to vote for you. They're saying you're too big a challenge threat and you're just going to win the next one.

Jacob: We're voting Phyllis. Is there any chance you'd come over to our side? Please? Pretty please? Pretty please with a cherry on top? (giggles)

Veronica: (sighs) I really don't know if I can...

Oswald: You know how much this money would mean to me. We had that conversation yesterday about what we'd do with the money and I said it'd all go to the family. We've struggled to make ends meet, my kids want to go to college and I can't afford it. This is the kind of money we dream of. I told you about my wife, about how long we've been together. She'd be so proud if I made it to the end.

Veronica: I know she would, and yes, I know how much the money means to you.

Jacob: It would be so life changing for me, too. We're so close to the end, Veronica. We want to win so bad, we've been through so much. Please side with us.

Veronica: I know you guys want and deserve the money. (sigh) I'm not winning anyway, I know I'm being taken to the end for that reason so I'm not even thinking about money.

Jacob: If you aren't winning anyway, why not take us? We've played really clean games, we've fought back from the bottom and we've stuck by every alliance we've ever made. We have selfless motivations for the money. Why take Phyllis and Will? They're selfish players who have flipped and backstabbed so many times. Would you really like to sit next to them instead of us?

Veronica: You guys are right. You do deserve the money... I just want to set a good  example for my children.

Oswald: Then show them that the good guys can win in the end. What better example to set? You have the power in your hands right now to decide whether the good people win, or the evil people.

Veronica: I know all that... I'm just not sure I want the additional Jury hate that's going to come with it.

Jacob: Stick to your guns and tell the Jury you were aware you weren't winning, knew that sticking to Will and Phyllis wouldn't make any difference, and instead wanted to set a strong moral example to your kids. Would you be happy with yourself at the end of the day, taking Phyllis just to avoid getting heat for it, when she's played the game she has?

Veronica: You're right... you guys have played heroically and you deserve it way more. I'll think about it, okay? I promise.

Oswald: Thanks. That's all we could ask for.

(Oswald and Jacob walk away. The camera focuses on Oswald, who looks back a little guiltily.)

Oswald: We did what we had to do. Hopefully it pays off.

"vireo"

- We had to play emotional with Veronica. We may've come across as a pair of self-righteous dicks by arguing what we did, but it's the only card we can play. We can't argue any strategic value to keeping us, because there's none. Veronica knows about my wife, my family and my motivations for winning this game, so I had to appeal with her to play with her heart and let the good guys win. She's not like a lot of other people; she's well aware that she's not winning, so there's not much difference for her either way. I can tell we got to her; she feels we deserve the win more than Phyllis, but she's worried that she's gonna get even more flack from the Jury. I sure as Hell don't blame her for thinking like that, 'cause it wouldn't feel good for anybody to be on the receiving end of that much heat. I just hope her emotional side wins out, she thinks this is a good example to set for her children, and there's three cards with Phyllis' name on them tonight.

(The camera then focuses on Veronica, who is looking conflicted.)

"vireo"

- I'm completely torn on what to do right now. I know the money would mean the world to both Oswald and Jacob, and Oswald's motivation for the money is absolutely touching. I think they absolutely deserve to make it to the end and win. They are the good guys and it would be setting a great example for my children. I feel like I have the choice of good and evil in my hands right now. Does Phyllis really deserve to make it to the end? I'm not sure. She's backstabbed and lied and abused the people who trusted her and that's not a game I respect at all. I respect Oswald's game so much. I just know that if I go that way, I'll probably get even more heat from the Jury. Is that worth it to help good people win? And if I don't help them, can I live with myself if I sit in a final three with Will and Phyllis?

(The music then grows more ominous as the camera returns to the camp. Will and Phyllis are sitting around the campfire, concerned looks on their faces.)

Phyllis: She's been gone a very long time.

Will: They're playing the emotional card on her, I know it.

Phyllis: So we might not have the three votes after all. Do you think she'd turn?

Will: I don't know but we can't leave anything to chance. The problem we have is Veronica actually knows she's not winning, so it doesn't make any difference to her.

Phyllis: Oh my goodness... what can we do? It's going to come down to who she... likes better?

Will: Probably. They're likely telling her how much the money would mean to them. You need to go and talk to her. If she's turning against anyone, it's you.

Phyllis: Me? I know we've had differences... what do you want me to say?

Will: Give her an emotional reason to take you. Think of something that's going to make her want to take you because you deserve it. Your game is counting on it. You're the one getting the votes, because I'm immune.

Phyllis: (sigh) Okay, I'll see what I can do.

(Phyllis gets up and heads out of camp. The camera focuses on her nervous expression.)

"vireo"

- It turns out we may not have the votes to send Oswald home after all and that makes me sick to my stomach. If Oswald survives tonight. I'm sitting on the Jury and I've come too far and done too much to let that happen. Unfortunately, I forgot to account for the wildcard that was Veronica. She's well aware she's not winning and I think her vote tonight is going to come down to who she likes or who she thinks deserves it more. I know that Veronica doesn't like me an awful lot, but I have to somehow appeal to her emotional side. I have a story that I can use- my husband's dementia. Veronica's had experiences with it, so I know she can relate and it might make her think I deserve the end. But... (sigh) what kind of monster would I be if I abused it for my strategic gain? I'm sorry to all my family at home watching this... this sort of position is unimaginable. I'm going home tonight if Veronica sways the other way, so I need to pull out all the stops if I want to stay... but can I go to that level? And if I don't, how can I convince Veronica to keep me over the father of five who just wants to give his family the best in life?

(The camera next picks up as Phyllis approaches Veronica.on the beach.)

Phyllis: Hi there!

Veronica: Hi. There hasn't been a change, has there?

Phyllis: No, we still want to eliminate Oswald. Listen, I won't beat around the bush here. I know that you know you aren't winning and I know that you don't like me a lot and are considering voting me out tonight.

Veronica: Yeah, I've been approached about that. Can you blame me? I haven't exactly agreed with everything you've done. You backstabbed my best friend.

Phyllis: I know that. I know that Oswald's this father figure who just wants to provide for his family and you  think he deserves it a Hell of a lot more than me. You've seen his wife and how in love they are. My husband and I have been married for even longer and he's done incredible things for me. I met him in England when I taught at Oxford. He had an entire life, a steady job, his own family, and when my mother was dying back in Delaware, he didn't even hesitate to pack everything up and move back to the States with me. The only reason you didn't see him is because he has dementia. You know what that's like. Although his mind is fading, that undying love, the same man who did that for me, is still there.

Veronica: Wow, Phyllis... that's lovely.

Phyllis: Now, listen to me. I'm not going to stand here, grovel at your feet and say "poor me, my husband has dementia, let me get to the end." I love Patrick too much to do that. But you've lived through a loved one with dementia. Just to make it to the end would be a memory for us as a family to be proud of. I know you would have done anything to make your mother happy in those last moments, but if you decide that Oswald deserves it more than me, I can't control that. I'm not going to use my husband's condition to get you to keep me. You know what I'm playing for and why I'm out here.

Veronica: I'm glad you said that. I completely understand where you're coming from, and you're right. I would have done anything to make my mother happy. Thanks for that, Phyllis.

Phyllis: You're welcome. I hope you vote my way tonight.

(Phyllis walks away. The camera focuses on her as some tears begin to form.)

"vireo"

- I couldn't do it. I knew I could have probably pulled the vote my way for sure if I played up the dementia card with Veronica. She knows what it's like to lose a loved one through that, so I could have played up the "one last memory for my husband card", but... (she takes a shaky breath as tears come) I love my husband far too much to abuse his condition for my strategic gain. I could never forgive myself, or expect my family to. All I could do was remind Veronica that she knows what I've gone through and that the love between my husband and I is just as strong as the one between Oswald and his wife. I told her what Patrick had done for me. If I go tonight because she thinks Oswald deserves it more, or she just plain doesn't like me, then I'm at least doing so knowing that I've kept my dignity intact. I will never stoop to that level to stay alive.

(The camera focuses on Veronica, who looks after Phyllis as she walks away, smiling.)

"vireo"

- I gained a lot of respect for Phyllis there. I'm glad she's not using her personal story as strategy because if she went that low, I don't think I could have restrained myself from vomiting. I know Phyllis and her husband share a deep love from what she told me. I know what she's going through, losing a loved one with dementia. I would have done anything to make Mom's last days amazing and that's what Phyllis is trying to do. But does that automatically make her deserve it more? I don't respect her game or the things she's done, but I do respect Oswald's and his motivation for winning is amazing. I've still got no clue where I'm going. I've got so much to consider. This decision just got a whole lot harder.

(As the day fades into the late afternoon, Will approaches Phyllis.)

Will: Is she voting with us?

Phyllis: I'm not sure.

Will: I'll go talk to her then,

(With a sigh, Will heads off to find Veronica.)

"vireo"

- I should have known this from the beginning. When you want something right, you do it yourself. I may not be in danger of going home tonight but my game is if Veronica takes Oswald forward. I am not letting her screw me out of a million dollars. I can play to Veronica's emotional side, too. What do you think I've been doing since we swapped? I don't have a sob story but I can guilt her into it. I got her here, I can make her see that and I can make her see that she's costing me a million dollars by taking Oswald, which she won't want to do since I've helped her so much. I don't care what level I have to go to. There will be three votes against Oswald tonight.

(The camera picks up as Veronica is approached by Will.)

Will: Veronica, are you thinking of voting for Phyllis tonight?

Veronica: Yes, I'm considering it.

Will: Don't. Look, if you do this, if you take Oswald any further, you're screwing me out of the game. You are destroying the only chance I have left of winning.

Veronica: So I should just take him out so you can win?

Will: I helped you get through the hardest parts of this game. You wouldn't even be able to make this decision if I hadn't. I was the one who made you see past your emotions and side with Gombey, a move that won you back so much respect and made people see you as more than an emotional player. Even when we went our separate ways I still came back to you. I came down to you on that beach and talked you out of quitting the morning after you told Phyllis to kill herself. If I'd left you there, you wouldn't be here by now. We're friends, Veronica, and I've done so much to help you. Is this really how you're going to pay me back?

Veronica: I know you've helped me and I probably wouldn't have gotten this far without you. I have a lot to think about: the Jury. my children...

Will: Are you going to tell your children to bite the hand that feeds you? To repay kindness with backstabbing? Come on, you know the right move is to vote for Oswald.

(Will walks away. The camera focuses on Veronica as she stares into the distance.)

"vireo"

- Everything Will just said was completely true: I owe a big part of my place in the game to him and I'd be screwing him out of his only chance at winning if I vote Phyllis out. I've been with him for a long time. Is that really fair on him? Then again, I have to think, does he really care about me, or is he just counting on my number? Will's played a pretty ruthless game, he's done some nasty things and he's backstabbed me and others. Does he deserve to have a shot at winning over Oswald or Jacob? It's something to consider. Whatever I do, I'm taking the Jury and my children into consideration. How will the Jury feel if I take Phyllis out? How will they feel if I take Oswald out? What kind of message would I be sending my children if I backstabbed the person who helped me through this game? What message would I be sending them if I prevented the "good" people from winning? I'm deciding the game tonight. Whichever two I side with are going to be the two who fight it out at the end. That's insane pressure on me. I need to weigh up everything before I make my decision.

The camera then switches to the castaways packing for Tribal Council. The camera moves in on Oswald and Jacob.

Oswald: Well, Jacob, it all comes down to this. We've done everything we can now.

Jacob: I just hope it's enough, dude. I want us to make the Final Four.

Oswald: It's out of our hands. We've just got to hope things fall our way.

"vireo"

- I've fought my way through the entire merge with strategy, idols and sticking to my guns. Tonight, though, the strategy is gone. It comes down entirely to Veronica and how her heart wants to go. I've done everything I can to convince her that I'm deserving and she should take me over Phyllis and whether that's enough remains to be seen. I sure hope it is, 'cause no way am I ready to go home. I'm playing this game for my wife and my family. This money would change our lives and dammit, I'm so damn close I can see it, and I want it! There's one vote, and then one more challenge. That's all that stands between me and a million dollars.

The sun sets as the Final Five make their way to Tribal Council.

Polls-   During Episode
Who will be the eighth member of Bermuda's Jury? Jacob Oswald Phyllis Veronica

Author's Notes

 * A massive thanks to ItsAjNeale for yet another jury manga. He's really just such an incredible person for doing all of them and if you like it you should totally go check out his second season, Dueling Desert! He totally didn't write this either.