The Family Sends Their Regards

The Family Sends Their Regards is the second episode of Survivor: Comoro Islands - Champions and Contenders.

Day 4
A brand new morning is dawning upon the Mwali beach.

People are getting up, ready for the new day.

Hazel is climbing out of the shelter, stretching languorously, her buff pulled down over her mouth as she yawns.

Hazel: [waving to sun] Morning, world…

Keira casts her a weird look.

Blake: Morning, Hazel. I’ve made breakfast.

Maverick makes space for Hazel to sit down on a log next to him. Blake hands her a shellful of rice, which she gratefully accepts.

"mwali"

- Life on the Mwali beach has been positively peachy these last few days. I’ve really enjoyed my time out here so far, and it hasn’t been as tough as I feared from the start, having to live on an island. Blake and Maverick have really been looking out for me; he’s a father figure I look up to, and Mav is like a goofy older brother. It’s a really tight family dynamic on our tribe thus far! The outliers are the other half of the tribe, the two veterans and Keira. It’s not like I dislike any of them, it’s just that...they’re the outsiders, and it’s plain to see. We’re not really all that close with Keira, but the two returning Champions definitely pose more of a threat in this game by virtue of having won the game before. It’s pretty clear to see that…[shrugs] they are on the outs on this tribe.

Hazel looks around curiously.

Hazel: Where’re Markus and Erin?

Blake: Took off to the woods a while ago. Haven’t seen them since.

Hazel: ...Hm.

A moment of silence passes.

Hazel: Do you think they’d be looking for an idol?

Blake looks up and leans back on his haunches.

Blake: [shrugs] ...Possibly.

Hazel: Ooh, if they are...we should go and bust them. Right? Right?

Maverick chuckles as she nudges him in the sides.

Maverick: Right.

Blake: We can go now, if you like.

Hazel: Yeah, let’s go!

She dumps the rice back into the pot as the three of them get to their feet. Keira, lazing back in the depths of the shelter, watches them go through narrowed eyes, before calmly pulling her buff over her face and shutting the light out.

Elsewhere, deep in the forest…

Markus is tromping over a pathful of leaves.

Markus: Erin?

Erin calls back from within a thick set of trees.

Erin: Yeah! I’m over here.

Markus: Find anything yet?

Erin: No...Have you found anything?

Markus: No.

"mwali"

- Erin and I are on shaky ground on the Mwali tribe. We don’t have a solid alliance to call our own, and it’s pretty evident from tribal dynamics that we’re being singled out and could be in hot water if and when we go to Tribal Council, purely because we’re two former winners playing with a group of four newbies. So it is do or die time right now...we need to find this hidden immunity idol, or Erin and I are gonna wind up toast. I guarantee you the Family have us on the top of their hit list...and that’s what Erin’s dubbed the trio at the top of the Mwali food chain, by the way. [laughing] I think it’s a perfect name.

The camera cuts to a montage of Markus and Erin scouring the forest for idols or clues. Markus is shown sticking his head around boulders, digging near tree roots and climbing them, even. Erin is shown scurrying about bushes, tugging on vines and stuffing her hands into every nook and crevice found near boulders or trees; both of them getting filthier with each search.

"mwali"

- So I’ve decided to give a nickname to the tight alliance of three that is clearly controlling this tribe. They’re the Family…[laughing] and it’s fitting because they’re honestly like a little Russian mafia. We have Blake, the Godfather, since he’s plainly the head honcho of it all; he’s the one deciding where the shelter is, when the tribe eats, what we eat everyday, little nitpicky things that he doesn’t need to dictate but that he’s deciding for all of us anyway, and Maverick and Hazel are content to let him do it. We have Maverick the Mafioso, the muscle of the Family. We all saw how he beasted the sandbagging portion of yesterday’s challenge. And Hazel, the subservient Consort, who only talks with her two guys and wants little to do with the rest of us. There you have it…[spreads hands] the Family. [giggling] Now what does that make me, Markus and Keira?

Erin wanders over to where Markus is still searching.

Erin: Wonder which one of us the Family will ice first? [chuckling]

Markus: Probably me, since my win was more recent. [digging]

Erin: No, I think it’ll be me. Godfather Blake will want to keep you around to help in challenges for as long as the Family needs you.

Markus: [laughing] I’m not that helpful in challenges. Yeah, I try, but...I mean, you won more immunities than I ever did in my season.

Erin: I don’t think Blake keeps track of a statistic that far back to Cayman Islands. He probably just thinks you’re better to keep around because men usually stay over women in the first phase of the game.

Markus doesn’t appear to know how to respond to that, and simply shakes his head dejectedly and keeps digging.

Over their shoulder, the camera zooms in on a shadow in the distance. Maverick is peeking at the pair of them from behind a large tree, and he silently sneaks back without them noticing.

Blake and Hazel are wandering around on the other end of the forest, as Maverick returns to join them, snickering to himself.

Blake: Well? Are they…?

Maverick: Yeah, I caught them in the act. [sniggering] They’re looking right now.

Blake: Neptune, they’re dumb.

Hazel: They probably feel pretty desperate right about now…

Hazel nonchalantly picks at her teeth with a twig, as Blake leans against the nearest tree.

Blake: I give them credit for at least being astute enough to know that...it’s one of them, next. Like, there’s no other option. Maverick, you should keep following them. In case they really do find it. Then there’s a chance they can turn the tables…

Maverick: Damn, I already left them behind. I can keep after them, though. I don’t mind playing spy.

Back deep inside the forest, Erin is still searching around the floor, when Markus comes up behind her.

Markus: Guess what?

She whirls around.

Erin: No.

Markus holds up a folded piece of parchment, grinning.

Erin: Omigosh, no!

Laughing, she leaps up and hugs him and he laughs back, spinning her around.

Erin: Q-Quick, read what it says! Where’d you find it?

Markus: In that stump over there, underneath all those leaves and [censored]-

Erin: Open it, open it! Is it an idol?

Markus: It’s just a clue, I think. I don’t feel an idol inside.

He opens up the parchment and he and Erin bend their heads over to read it.

Markus: Congratulations, you have found the clue to a hidden immunity idol. But to retrieve it, you have to be bold and daring. At your next immunity challenge, there will be a pyramid-shaped station out in the ocean, where you will be assembling a puzzle. Tied to the bottom of that station is the hidden immunity idol. If you are bold enough to snatch the idol right in front of your unsuspecting tribemates, then safety will be yours. Good luck.

The two share a look.

Markus: This is huge.

Erin: You’re telling me…

Markus: I can’t believe this…

"mwali"

- The hidden immunity idol ISN’T EVEN at CAMP. What in the world? Erin and I find this clue, and the idea of having to find the immunity idol AT an immunity challenge itself...i-it’s mindblowing. I’ve earned idols at the Island of Advantages before. But I’ve never had to find an idol out in the open like this before, where anyone and everyone could catch sight of me doing it! This is going to involve a huge risk, and if I’m discovered...it might backfire on me and make this already bad situation for me and Erin...even worse.

Markus looks up when he hears footsteps approaching.

Markus: Maverick’s coming.

He hurriedly crumples up the parchment behind his back, as Erin walks over to talk to Maverick.

Maverick: Where were you guys? Hazel was asking for y’all.

Erin: Oh. We were just talking. What’s up?

Maverick: Nothing, she was just curious. What’re y’all doing out here?

Erin: Markus and I were only talking. You want to join in?

Maverick smirks at them but says nothing.

"mwali"

- Erin thinks she’s slick. [snickering] Talking...psh. You already got busted, girl. Just give up the act! Erin’s a sneaky one, but this time, she’s easy to see through. She’s not nearly half as slick as she probably thinks she is. For a couple of winners, the two of them are really scraping the bottom of the barrel with how low down the totem pole they are on this tribe. But hey, better them than me.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu beach…

The camera shows Lisa sleeping like a log in the shelter.

The other four are all awake. Carter is hacking at a coconut with a machete. Eli is coming out of the water, and Mallorie is walking around camp, as Candy sits by the campfire.

Mallorie stands in front of the shelter, hands on her hips, staring disapprovingly at Lisa, still dozing peacefully away with her buff obscuring her face. Wrinkling her nose, she bends down and slowly pokes Lisa in the thigh.

Lisa does not budge.

Mallorie pokes her again, then straightens up and jabs her with her toe.

Lisa does not budge in the slightest.

Mallorie: [glancing at the others] You guys think she’s dead?

Lisa suddenly snorts, startling the others, as she groggily sits up, pulling her buff down.

Lisa: Mmrf…[dazed] ...why are y’all staring at me?

Carter: A-Ah, it’s nothing...you want breakfast?

Lisa: Mmpgh...suuure…

Mallorie rolls her eyes deliberately as Lisa stumbles past her to take food from Carter.

"vailheu"

- In light of last night’s Tribal Council...I had to try and smooth things over a little bit with Lisa. She wasn’t happy to not be included in the vote and she confronted me over it. She never even bothered asking about it with the other three, she only wanted to hear the truth from me. And I...decided to spin things a little. I made it out to seem like Chase had wanted her gone from the start, and that we’d saved her life by taking him out instead. There are a lot of holes in that story, but Lisa...she’s not exactly the sharpest tool in the shed. I don’t think she pieced it together herself.

Lisa: So hungry…

Lisa wolfs down the rice Carter has prepared, as Candy watches her with a cautious expression.

"vailheu"

- Last night, Tribal Council was suuucky. I thought, for sure, Mallorie was a goner. But no. Instead, Chase, a man who I wholesomely trusted - is that the word for it? Wholesomely? - either way, the man who I wholesomely trusted in this game, above all else, that beautiful man with the chiselled jaw and rocky chest and abs...turned his back on me. He betrayed me! I was shocked to see my name come up. But yeah...I’m grateful to the tribe for keeping me, buuut...now I don’t think I have anybody left in my corner. Right now, I think only Carter is willing to feed me information about what’s going on. No one else really wants to talk game to me anymore. I guess I’m...sort of the outcast now? Since they all voted for him without telling me? Which is kinda stupid, like...who makes the outcast the prettiest girl? That’s not how this is supposed to work. [laughing]

Lisa: I just wanna say, like, thank you to you guys, all of you, for like...not voting me out last night. You really saved my hide.

Carter: Yeah. Don’t worry about it.

Lisa shrugs, mouth twitching a little as she looks to the others for responses. Candy stares at the fire. Eli is suddenly preoccupied with a crab scuttling by his feet. Mallorie is picking at her teeth, looking bored.

Lisa: ...Okay then.

She gets up.

Lisa: Carter, you want to go out in the water?

Carter: Like...right now?

Lisa: Yeah, I’m so bored. Come on! Let’s go take a dip. It’s the beach, after all!

Carter: Okay, then.

They leave, and Mallorie’s face affixes itself into a haughty expression and she snorts under her breath at the sight of Lisa taking Carter by the hand and running with him down to the water’s edge.

Mallorie: [turning to Candy and Eli] Jeezums, she is such a moron.

Eli: [snorts, grinning] So dumb.

Mallorie: Right? [giggling] What an idiot.

Candy shrugs, scratching at her leg.

Mallorie: I seriously wonder what must go on inside her head. I bet it’s nice and peaceful in there. It’d be liberating to be that ditzy and airheaded, surely…

The camera cuts to Lisa and Carter playing around in the water, as Lisa laughs flirtatiously, literally throwing herself onto Carter and running her hands down his back. Eli watches them from camp.

"vailheu"

- It’s a funny thing, that Lisa is, of all people, struggling the most on this tribe right now. Survivor is meant to be a social experiment, and many times it has proven itself to be a microcosm of the real world and the real modern society we find ourselves in in our day-to-day lives. Lisa, in real life, would fit the bill of the pretty, popular girl who sails by on her looks and gets men to do what she wants and is generally pretty privileged and lucky outside of this game. And yet, in here, she is suffering the most. No one wants to have conversations with her. She’s rubbed both other girls on this tribe the wrong way with her banal chatter. And her flirting “strategy” just isn’t working. I think what she expected when she signed up for this game was that she could wrap men around her finger by being the hot girl, but she wasn’t expecting all the men on her tribe to be there to actually play the game, and not hook up. It would explain why a stereotypically pretty girl of her archetype is actually the unexpected outsider within this group, because really, in most normal social situations, it’s the dweeb like me that ends up on the outs of such a pretty group. [chuckling] Yet here I am, in good graces with all three other players. Lisa’s head is the one on the chopping block next, and the only thing “pretty” about her is that it’s “pretty” clear she’ll be the next one to go.

The camera cuts to one last shot of Lisa laughing, blissfully ignorant, as she splashes Carter with water.

Meanwhile, on the Pamanzi tribe…

Randall and the women are sitting around the campfire, not doing much.

Constance is helping to braid Bridgette’s hair, as the latter chats with her.

Bridgette: It feels good not to attend the first Tribal Council of the season again.

Constance: Is that right? Seychelles feels so long ago, I can’t quite remember all the details from when we watched it...

Bridgette: No, yeah, I went to the very first Tribal my season. Elmer did as well. So we both know the dread that comes with potentially being first boot, and having to decide the first boot, even. I’m glad neither of us have to go through that again this time around.

Kelli: Who do you guys think got voted out?

Bridgette: Mallorie.

Constance gasps.

Randall: [snorts] Funny you say that. I thought you two were close.

Bridgette: We were! I just think she’s likely to be voted off first because she’s a threat, and everyone knows it.

The camera cuts to a shot of Elmer and Drew walking up the beach, carrying loads of clams under their arms.

Elmer: We brought lunch!

Constance: Oh, yayyy!

Kelli: Woohoo!

Elmer sets down the clams, and the camera cuts to Drew skillfully setting up the pot and cutting clams open.

Elmer: You got it, Drew?

Drew: I got it. Don’t worry about a thing. Can’t let you take care of all the chores around camp, Elmer. [laughing] Go sit down and chill out, I can prepare today’s food.

Drew carries shellfuls of rice to every single tribe member individually.

First, he takes a shell to Elmer and Kelli, who are sunbathing down the beach.

Drew: For you, good sir and madame…

Elmer: Why, thank you, squire.

Kelli: Excellent. Oh, where’s my morning tea?

Drew: I’ll be with you in just a moment, madame.

Kelli: Wonderful, darling. [fake giggle]

Then he takes one to Constance and Bridgette in the shelter.

Drew: Ladies, lunch...is served.

Bridgette: Oh boy! Rice and clam. Just what I ordered!

Constance: How considerate of you.

Lastly, Drew sits down with Randall and hands him his food.

Randall: Cheers, man.

Elmer comes up the beach now, with an empty shell, Kelli tagging along in his footsteps as usual.

Elmer: You know, back in Cayman Islands, me and Oberon used to do this thing.

Drew: Yeah? What?

Elmer: We would do a few pushups before every meal.

Bridgette: What? You’re tired enough as it is starving on the island, why do pushups still? [laughing]

Elmer: It wasn’t many. Not enough to fully tire us out. But we wanted to keep our blood pumping even on days when we didn’t have challenges, so we weren’t completely exhausted when the challenges actually came around. Plus, it helped boost morale. Oberon was a bit picky about staying in shape so I suggested it to lift his spirits back then. I was just talking to Kelli about it.

Drew: Well, I suppose I don’t mind joining in every now and then. If I last long enough in the game, I’ll probably be all skin and bones thirty or so days down the road, won’t I? [laughing]

Elmer: Survivor’s the best weight loss program there is out there, and you actually get paid to do it instead of the other way round! Randall, you want to join in too?

Randall looks up from his food, a snarky look on his face.

Randall: Join in on what? A bit of pointless exercise before meals? I don’t see the point.

Elmer: I think you need it more than Drew, to be honest. It’s not even been five days but you already look a bit peckish around the ribs.

Randall smiles dryly.

Randall: I appreciate the concern, bro. But I’m good. [raises thumbs up] You don’t gotta worry ‘bout me.

Kelli: What else did you and Oberon do in the Cayman Islands?

Elmer turns his attention back to her.

Kelli: You must have so many interesting stories from your first season. Like, what things did you guys do for fun to, like, pass the time? Four days out here and I’m already starting to get sick and tired of sunbathing and swimming...although I bet my tan will be great when I’m outta here…

Randall rolls his eyes to himself as Elmer launches into another, different story. Drew is the only one who catches sight of it.

The camera cuts to the sour expression on Randall's face before fading away.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu beach…

Mallorie and Candy are taking a walk through the woods, and talking.

Candy: You really think you could find another idol?

Mallorie: I’ve found idols before. As long as we keep at it and don’t lose hope…

Candy: Leave no stone unturned…

Mallorie: Exactly.

"vailheu"

- Lisa is our next target. There is no question in my mind that that is what needs to happen. But until then, the only thing that could potentially ruin those plans is a hidden immunity idol, or heck, even the threat of one existing. Lisa having it would be disastrous for all our games, since the four of us are pretty united on wanting her gone. So rather than sit around and do nothing, I decided I might as well get my ass up and go look for the idol in case it somehow falls into her hands. And this also gives me the perfect opportunity to bond with Candy even more. I still owe her one for getting back to me before everyone else about Chase wanting me gone, and...I look out for the people who have my back.

Mallorie: So you’re a gamer, right? You ever been to, like...conventions and stuff?

Candy’s eyes flash with a subtle warning and she laughs it off.

Candy: Yeah, I have...sometimes.

Mallorie: Mhm, well, you probably know more about those kinds of geeky activities than I would. I’ve never even really touched video games much before…

Candy: What? Man, you’re missing out. For real?

Mallorie: I mean, I’ve played a few simple games before, but they’ve never really been my thing.

Candy: Okay, so what do you play? What consoles do you own at home? Do you have any multiplayer games? A favorite genre?

Mallorie: I always just thought games seemed a little childish.

Candy stares at her with a scandalized look on her face until Mallorie breaks and laughs.

Mallorie: Alright, alright! I take it back. Don’t glare at me like that! [laughing]

Candy: Girl, as soon as we get off this island, I am going to- you are going to HAVE to invite me over to your place, and I’m bringing all sorts of games. I am bringing Mario games, Jackbox games, multiplayer shooters...everything. We’re going to find you something - anything! - that helps you realize how amazing playing games can be, trust me…

"vailheu"

- It’s true that I am not a gamer, I think I’m a bit too serious for that. [laughing] But hearing Candy rave so enthusiastically about them...you can tell she has a sincere passion for gaming. And it was nice to see her so fired up on the topic. The stories she told me about the things she’s done in games...she just has this way of engaging you in her interactions that feels genuine, and makes you want to listen to her more. It’s an uncanny ability she has to make any conversation with her stay interesting. We ended up barely searching for the idol because we spent more time just chatting with one another. I really do think, of all the people on this tribe, that I’ve come to like her the most. I had a main girl by my side on my first season, and that was Bridgette. But this time...I think I’ve found her again, and it’s Candy.

As Mallorie and Candy traipse through the woods, deep in conversation, back at camp, Eli is building a sandcastle down by the beach. Lisa is suntanning a distance away again, her buff once again covering her face from the sun, and Carter comes down to check in on Eli.

Carter: How’s it going?

Eli: We are on a beach, after all. I thought I’d try to make a sandcastle without tools.

The messy mound in front of Eli barely resembles a castle and Carter snorts, grinning.

Carter: Wow. That’s...truly, a work of art.

Eli: Indubitably! All it needs now is a moat and drawbridge.

Eli turns to look into camp, as Carter plops down next to him.

Eli: Where’d Mal and Candy run off to?

Carter: I think they went to take a walk in the woods.

Eli: They’ve been hanging around each other a lot these few days.

Carter: Well, I’m not surprised. It’s not like either of them were going to bond much with, say, Lisa.

Eli: Speaking of...I think we’re all four in agreement that she’s the next to go, right?

Carter: [nodding] Yep.

Eli: It may not be the most dazzling strategic move, but…

Carter: It doesn’t need to be. We have no reason to keep her around; there’s no trust with her for any of us. She’s a wild card.

Eli: Right.

"vailheu"

- Lisa is the most on the outs right now, so that leaves the other four of us more or less united against her. After all, there’s nothing better to unite people than a common enemy. And I’ve already noticed Mallorie and Candy getting along great, so I also wanted to get in on the action a little bit by creating a bit more of a uh...a bro bond with Carter, should I say. [chuckling] If Candy’s going to be the new Bridgette to Mallorie’s...well, to Mallorie’s Mallorie, then...I’ll continue the Seychelles analogies and say that I’d like to be the new Graham to Carter’s Dillan, but I’d play that role a little smarter.

Eli: I know the alliance with Chase obviously didn’t work out for, you know...reasons.

Carter: Mhm.

Eli: But I do still want to work with you. Like, genuinely. It was only Chase and Lisa that posed an obstacle to that. But you are someone I’d want to work with.

Carter: And you too to me, man. I mean that. I have no qualms working with you in this game.

Eli: I think if the two girls are going to align, then you and me...we need to help each other as well. Especially given you’re a veteran...I think you need another pair of eyes and ears to watch your back.

Carter: I appreciate it. You can count on me too.

Eli: We could be the new Graham and Dillan.

Carter snickers.

Carter: Let’s hope we don’t end up exactly like they did…

Eli: I do mean it though. As a superfan, it’d be my dream to not only play Survivor but play it with legends like yourself and Mallorie. I mean, you’re called Contenders for a reason. Y’all were good enough at the game to almost win. That means a lot to me.

Carter: You give me too much credit. I wasn’t that great the last time around, honest. I think they just needed another male player from Mozambique who did well enough against Markus and instead of Nicholas, they picked me because I made it further. But I appreciate it though. Really! [laughing] I got your back, man.

"vailheu"

- There are pros and cons to working with the returning players, I believe. They’re obviously dangerous in this game and can’t be allowed to go too far. I know that, I’m not stupid. And eventually I’d want to cut both Carter and Mallorie loose. But for now, I like the idea of us and Candy being in an alliance, because that’s numbers for me in a tribe swap and at the merge. And I’d need to keep shields around in players that are more threatening than me. Being a veteran alone is enough of a target, and that’s why I want to work with Carter and really get to build up a relationship with him. We’re the only two men on this tribe now, so we gotta align!

Meanwhile, on the Mwali beach…

Markus is taking a walk with Maverick.

Maverick: What was it like, knowing you’d made it to Final Tribal Council?

Markus: After playing through the whole game? Best feeling in the world.

Maverick: Dude, I still can’t believe the vote came down to a tie. I can’t even imagine the stress Annabeth must’ve been under, that [censored] doesn’t happen often...crazy…

"mwali"

- My tribe on Mozambique and my tribe now on the Comoro Islands are two very different tribes. For one thing, back on Qamea, I always felt like people had my back and I was confident that I was in control of my own fate. Here...I really only have Erin who’s willing to talk game with me. That’s the unfortunate stigma that comes with being a returning player and winner among a group of newbies. No one wants to work with you! But I’m going to need to at least try to form some inroads within this tribe, so hopefully I’m not completely defenseless if and when we end up going to Tribal Council. And of all the people on this tribe, I honestly think I’d have the best shot forging a relationship with Maverick.

Markus: You know, we could be a secret thing that nobody knows about.

Maverick: Yeah?

Markus: For sure. As a veteran, I can draw away a lot of heat from you, because I’m always going to be a target no matter how far I make it into the game.

Maverick: Of course, yeah. I get that.

Markus: I could help you out in this game. I’ll tell you anything I hear if it crops up…

Maverick: For sure, man. I’m all about it. We could be the Eminem alliance.

Markus: Eminem?

Maverick: Like...M and M. Cos...both our names start with M.

Markus: Oh! [laughing] I see.

"mwali"

- Honestly, Maverick seems to me like...he’s just a bit of a goofy guy. A little airheaded, perhaps, but with a good heart. But I honestly don’t see him having the same scheming, strategic acumen that a player like Blake, who we’ve literally dubbed the Godfather, might have. I’m hoping that by extending him an olive branch, he’ll do the same and keep me updated on what’s going on on the tribe. Because other than him, I don’t think Blake and Hazel would tell me anything unless it benefited them and their game. Plus, he caught me and Erin searching for the idol! I don’t want him reporting that back to Blake and Hazel. So if he thinks he’s in an alliance with me, maybe he’ll cover for me and I can keep our little secret under wraps.

Maverick holds out a fist and the two share a fist bump, Maverick cackling as he slaps Markus on the back.

Maverick: The “Eminem” alliance is gonna prosper, bro. You can bet on it.

Markus: [chuckling] I hope so.

Night 4
That night, it rains heavily.

The camera cuts to the Pamanzi tribe, huddled together in a pile to preserve warmth.

Constance: [shaking] Brr…

Kelli: Damn...water’s getting in.

Elmer: Here, take my jacket. Cover yourself and Constance.

Randall shudders, shifting closer to Drew, teeth chattering.

Randall: I hope this rain doesn’t last the whole [censored] night…

The camera cuts to the Mwali tribe, in a similar situation. Markus wipes his face, pressing himself up against the others as they cuddle together like sardines.

Hazel sneezes loudly, sniffing through her blocked nose and gasping for air.

Hazel: It’s so [censored] cold…

Blake: Yeah, my [censored] is soaked through…

Hazel coughs, curling up into a ball as Maverick and Keira pat her on her back, the water seeping through her shirt with a wet squish.

The camera cuts to a shot of a bolt of lightning shooting across the night sky, before fading away...

Day 5
The next morning, Blake, Hazel and Keira are still huddled up in the back of the shelter. Hazel has bags under her eyes and looks like she hasn’t slept a wink.

Maverick clambers out of the shelter, pawing through the pile of wet firewood they have.

Maverick: Damn...that’s not gonna be easy to start a fire with. Whole pile’s soggy as [censored].

Markus: That sucks…

Erin: Well...maybe we can go find some dry kindling somewhere…

Keira gets out of the shelter now. Blake is still hugging a petulant Hazel, and he gazes down at her with concern.

Blake: You better now, Hay?

Hazel: [moaning] No…

She sniffs, rubbing at her nose.

Hazel: That was an awful night...

Erin fixes her with a sympathetic gaze.

Erin: Survivor's rough. It can only get worse from here.

Rather than looking grateful, Hazel's demeanor turns sour and she retreats into herself, pulling up her hoodie with a groan.

"mwali"

- [sniffs, pinching bridge of nose with a sigh] I never thought that...last night was gonna be *hic* as hard as it was…? Like...I literally was unable to sleep...the whole night through. It was just a combination of the constant rain and the bitter cold and I could not stop shaking and...add to that all the big bites and the minor injuries from living in the woods the last five days and I haven't had a shower or a proper bed or a decent meal and it's all feeling like it's starting to pile up and…and I…[sinks head in hands] ugh…[sniffles]

Hazel leaves the shelter on shaky legs as Blake pats her soothingly on the back.

Maverick: You feeling okay, Haze?

Keira: Hazel. Hazel, drink some water.

Hazel: No.

Hazel ignores the canteen Keira is holding out for her and begins walking off by herself down the beach.

Hazel: No offense, Keira, but water is the last thing I need right now.

Maverick stands next to Blake, looking concerned.

Maverick: What's the matter with Hazel?

Blake: I think she's having a breakdown.

The camera zooms in slowly on Hazel curled up in a fetal position out by the rocks, the waves spraying saltwater over her while she rocks back and forth, eyes red and splotchy.

Maverick: You wanna go talk to her?

Markus: I can go talk to her.

Blake: No. Give her some space. She needs time alone. I'll have a word with her afterwards, you don't need to talk with her.

Keira looks off into the distance at Hazel's small figure.

"mwali"

- Hazel was upfront with us on Day One about her age, and I did think about how jarring it must be for a girl who's only eighteen to come out here and play a game as physically and mentally demanding as Survivor. I do feel bad for her. Survivor's clearly not easy. Our two veterans have confirmed as much, having gone all the way on their respective runs out here. I can only imagine what Hazel must be feeling and it is part of my sisterly instincts to want to give her a hand and help her toughen up and lend her some of my strength moving forward in this game. I believe it breaks everyone's heart to see her crying and vulnerable out there.

The camera cuts to Hazel staring out at the ocean, still curled up in her wet clothes.

"mwali"

- Last night's rainy night was a bit of a wakeup call for me, a reminder that...Survivor's real, and...it'll kick your ass and it's not easy for anyone to make it to the end, and it's always possible for the game to take it one step further and become even harder the further along you go, be it the conditions or gameplay or whatever. ...And just sitting here on these rocks and thinking on what this all means, I won't lie, it is [censored] daunting to think about. It is almost overwhelming. The pressure...of knowing what you sacrifice to even get the chance to come out here and knowing how this whole experience is gonna push you to your limits…[sniffs] And I don't want to quit because [sobbing] because I love this game and [sniffing] I'm not a quitter, like, I keep telling myself not to quit but…I keep asking myself, why am I out here? Like, did I make the wrong choice to come out here, can I even really do this? Or am I just gonna make a fool of myself, thinking I can handle a game like Survivor? I just…

Blake arrives, sitting down next to Hazel, and putting an arm around her.

Blake: You'll be okay.

Hazel: I just feel…[sniff]

Blake: I know. Let it out. I gotcha.

Hazel buries her face into his chest and he stays with her.

"mwali"

- Hazel struggling early on, especially less than a week in, does give me cause for concern a little bit, as to how well she'll be able to handle the rest of the game, however long that may be for her. We haven't even attended Tribal Council yet and she seemed on the verge of an emotional breakdown this morning, if not quitting. I do feel bad for her, but at the same time, this is a game. Nothing’s stopping the warning signs from going off inside my head that...she might not be up for this. I still like Hazel, a lot, and want to work with her in this game; she reminds me of my daughters and without them here, I do feel inclined to take up the father figure role in nurturing her. That being said, I need to look out for myself too. If I feel Hazel may not necessarily be up to the task and may actually end up hurting my game in the long run...then maybe I should start thinking of potentially cutting her loose.

The camera cuts to the calculating look on Blake’s face even as he continues to stroke Hazel’s back.

Meanwhile, on the Vailheu beach...

Part of the Vailheu shelter has collapsed during last night’s downpour. Carter is standing back and surveying the damage, as Candy gingerly drags herself out from the shelter.

Candy: Ooh...is it bad?

Carter: Well, we’re gonna need to fix it up. Give me a hand?

Candy helps Carter lift some of the fallen bamboo. Eli and Mallorie gather near them, assisting to collect the fallen debris from their shelter into a pile. Lisa is the only one sitting by the fire, blankly watching them without lifting a finger.

Mallorie notices her not doing anything, and scowls pointedly in her direction.

Lisa: ...What?

Mallorie: [shrugs] Could you, you know...help out?

Lisa: Oh! Yes, right. Sure.

Candy suppresses a little giggle as Mallorie rolls her eyes, looking suddenly exhausted.

Lisa: Ah!

Lisa winces when she accidentally slams her pinky finger in between two thick pieces of bamboo.

Carter: You alright?

Lisa: Yeah...just an accident.

Eli: Did you cut yourself?

Carter: Looks like a small scratch...want me to soak it in warm water for you?

Lisa: Yes, please…

Mallorie looks on disapprovingly as Lisa sits back down, and Carter helps to wash her tiny wound.

Lisa: [wincing] Ow, ow…

Carter: That hurts?

Lisa: It stings a little…

Carter: Sorry, no bandaids here. [chuckling]

Lisa: A kiss might make it feel better.

Carter: Sounds great. Eli, come and give Lisa’s finger a kiss.

Lisa: E-Er...never mind. I was just kidding.

"vailheu"

- Lisa makes me...so tired. [laughing] She makes me feel levels of exhaustion throughout my body that...I didn’t think were humanly possible. She is the human embodiment of a catty Winnie the Pooh; there’s just nothing but stuffing inside her head. I cannot stand her. I have a problem when she expects to coast by in camp and do no work by having all the strong men and heck, even women, do all the jobs for her. She barely helps out with chores, she doesn’t cook, she gathers little firewood, she barely leaves the beach since half the time, she’s working on her suntan. She’s the stereotypical pretty, privileged princess you read about in storybooks. Even the girl I clashed with the most on my last season, Felicity...like, at least even Felicity had enough brains to know what she was doing out on the island for as long as she was. But Lisa...she’s a lost cause. I’m sorry, but I don’t know what she was thinking coming out here; she is clearly not cut out for this game. I feel like Big Brother would have been the better show for her. She can manipulate and flirt all she wants on that show without needing to deal with the difficulties of living on an island. And I take offense to her thinking she’s above all of this when everyone else on the tribe is doing their best to pitch in. If I was still the Mallorie from Seychelles, I probably would’ve gone off on her a long time ago. But since I’m still playing the social game, and I’m trying to learn from the mistakes of last time...I’m only going to ‘calmly’ admonish her, and hope she grows from it.

An unknown amount of time later, Mallorie is meeting to talk with Lisa in the forest by a rock wall.

Lisa: What’s up?

Mallorie: I’ve been observing your behavior around camp, and don’t take this the wrong way, but...there are things I wanted to point out about how you’ve been acting.

Lisa: [frowning] Okay...shoot.

Mallorie: Namely, I’ve noticed you’re not helping out as much around camp as the rest of us are.

Lisa raises an eyebrow.

Lisa: I don’t…?

Mallorie: When we were all helping to rebuild the shelter this morning, you didn’t step up to even try and do anything.

Lisa: I still tried to help, didn’t I? I injured my finger.

Mallorie: And then you sat around for the next twenty minutes while the rest of us did all the work.

Lisa: I mean, I was injured.

Mallorie looks like she is making a concerted effort to not roll her eyes.

Mallorie: I don’t like that. I don’t approve of the way that you sit around camp, do nothing...and expect to have everyone do all the work for you.

Lisa: What are you even talking about? I do work. I help out like everyone else.

Mallorie: No. You don’t. Not as much as the rest of us do. We’re a tribe, that means we’re in this together. I just want to tell you that...people’s perception of you right now is that you’re lazy. You’re not helping. It’s not fair to the rest of us. You need to pitch in too. I’m trying to be calm and tell you this, because I’m trying to be fair and help you too, instead of trash you behind your back.

Lisa doesn’t look particularly grateful.

Mallorie: So I’m hoping that you’ll start to pitch in as much, and we can move forward from this as a tribe, stronger than before, so we don’t have to go back to Tribal Council.

Lisa: How does me doing chores or not affect whether we go back to Tribal? I thought it was just winning challenges that did that. What, so suddenly, whether or not I can lift a piece of bamboo is going to determine how well we do in immunity?

Mallorie: Lisa, please, just...just say you’ll try. That’s all I’m asking for. I don’t want to get in a fight. I’m just trying to help you out here by telling you that the way you’re going on right now, it’s not a good look for you.

Lisa: Okay, you know what? Whatever. Whatever you say goes, Mallorie. I’ll do it.

Mallorie: [sighs] ...Okay then.

Mallorie leaves, and Lisa scowls fiercely at her back.

"vailheu"

- Mallorie must still think she’s back on Seychelles, where she was the Queen Bee and all her little minions in her alliance like Bridgette are just going to meekly follow along and carry out all her orders. Who does this girl think she is, to lecture ME? She was so arrogant, and condescending, and she thought she was coming out of that conversation like some saint, like she did it all to help me out rather than to pander to her own ego. I was never a fan of Mallorie before all this and certainly not after I was made to look like the only fool throwing my vote to her while she and the rest of the tribe happily voted Chase out. But now I dislike her even more. You may have been hot [censored] on your last season, Mallorie, but this time around? I’m going to make sure you go home before I do. Okay, don’t come for me, because I will come for you right back.

The camera cuts to Lisa rolling her eyes and leaving in the opposite direction of Mallorie.

Lisa: So stupid.

Day 6
It is early morning on the Pamanzi beach.

Drew and Randall are down by the rocks, talking and washing dishes. Constance is sitting in the sand by them.

Kelli is sitting with Elmer by the fire, looking bored as he stirs the pot of water. She glances back over her shoulder to where Bridgette is dozing in the shelter, before turning back to Elmer.

Kelli: You know, I’m curious. Between this tribe and your first tribe on the Cayman Islands, which do you like more?

Elmer shrugs.

Elmer: Depends on how well I do this time around, I suppose.

Kelli: Yeah, I guess.

Elmer: I mean...I had to deal with my fair share of problematic people my season at the start too. Wilkes in particular, she was not fun to live with. And my first week was really stressful.

Kelli: You don’t have a Wilkes among the six of us this time, right?

Elmer: I guess you’re right. One could say Randall’s a little whiny.

The camera cuts to Randall snorting as he talks with Drew and Constance.

Elmer: But overall, I like the vibe of the tribe.

Kelli: What’s it like being back here with Erin? You two on good terms?

Elmer: Sure. I voted for her to win. I have respect for the way she played. It remains to be seen how it’d pan out if we ever met up again out here.

Kelli: I liked Erin too. She was a good winner. I watched the three seasons, like...before I came out here. I mean, your season was great. I loved you and I loved Erin too.

Elmer: She’ll be happy to hear that, I’m sure. Wow, a lot of Erin fans on this tribe. [laughing] First Drew, then you? Sucks that she’s missing out on all this love since she’s on Mwali instead.

Kelli: And Markus’s season was phenomenal as well. All my friends said they loved that one the most. But Seychelles...just sucked, like [giggling] I don’t know about you, but it was so baaad.

Elmer: I’m not one to judge, since...you know, I’ve played before. But yeah...I wasn’t much a fan of Seychelles either, at least...not compared to, say, Mozambique. I don’t want to sound conceited by naming my own season. [chuckling]

Kelli: Regardless, Bridgette was not who I would’ve crowned winner, that’s all I’m saying.

Behind her back, Bridgette still has her buff pulled over her face. The camera focuses on her, and her mouth twitches, suggesting she is listening in on the conversation.

Kelli: I mean, what did she even do? All she did was piggyback off of Mallorie the whole game and she wasn’t any better herself.

Elmer raises his hands defensively.

Elmer: I’m not pretending to know much about everything that went down during that season. I only know what I saw on TV.

Kelli: Plus, I bet Dillan only kept her around because he had a thing for her. She flirted with all the boys and not just him, I heard. It’s a lot off from what we saw. Like, I have nothing against flirting as a strategy.

Elmer: Yeah?

Kelli: I know Penny did it your season too.

Elmer: [chuckling] No offense to her, but I don’t think she was really being strategic when she did that.

Kelli: Yeah, like, even so, I have nothing against her. I actually met Penny before.

Elmer: For real?

Kelli: Yeah. I know a girl, who knows a girl, who knows a girl, who’s friends with her. So...I sorta know her...ish. And she’s great. Obviously, because you liked her too, so she can’t have been that bad. But even Penny made moves her game, questionable or not. Bridgette...like, did nothing. It was all Mallorie’s work. Honestly, she just ripped the cheque out of Mallorie’s hands right at the very end. I thought it was super lame.

Elmer chuckles a little at Kelli’s disdainful expression.

Elmer: Careful with what you say. She’s right there, isn’t she?

Kelli: Yeah, but she’s asleep. Who cares?

Bridgette continues to lie in the shelter, but the heaving of her chest is enough of an indicator that nothing Kelli and Elmer were talking about went unheard.

Later, Bridgette is walking down to the rocks to join the other three. Constance looks up and sees her approaching.

Constance: Hey, baby. What’s wrong?

Bridgette is only a few steps away before she is already starting to cry, tears leaking down her face.

Constance: Omigosh, Bridge. Why are you crying? Hey, are you okay?

Randall and Drew turn to stare as Bridgette sinks down onto her knees next to Constance, while Constance pats her thigh with visible concern.

Constance: What’s the matter? What’s wrong?

Bridgette: Nothing. It’s just...something stupid. [wipes face]

Constance: What happened?

She glances back up at camp, far off in the distance, where Kelli is getting up and parading around camp, still chatting away to Elmer. Kelli laughs out loud at something he says and playfully shoves him.

Constance: Did Kelli say something to you? What is it?

Bridgette: No, it’s just...I don’t know, I feel stupid even crying about it. [sniffs] It’s dumb.

Randall: What? What’s dumb?

Bridgette: Kelli was just...talking [censored] about me and my season...saying stuff like...I didn’t deserve to win, or...that Mallorie should’ve beaten me. Things like that…

Drew: What? She said that?

Bridgette nods, upset but trying to stem her flow of tears, without much success.

Constance: Awh, Bridge...don’t pay her any mind.

Bridgette: I know. Look, I know it’s just her saying that, I just...I can’t help it. [chokes] It’s still hard to hear, even now. Like, I mean...I came back to the game to prove to myself, to prove that I didn’t float my way to the end to steal a win, that I genuinely won that game of my own merit, and just...it sucks to hear people talking [censored] about me when I can’t even defend myself. I’ve had to endure comments like that ever since Seychelles but it’s completely different hearing it said out loud instead of reading it on a screen…[sniffs, wiping eyes with buff] It never gets easier.

Drew stops his work for a second to reach out and pat Bridgette on the back, as Constance hugs her. Randall watches them, eyes drifting over Bridgette’s shoulder to stare at Kelli and Elmer in the distance.

Bridgette: She even had the audacity...to like, point out I was just a flirt. I mean...what is she doing with Elmer, then, pawing at him every hour of the day? I mean, come on. If you’re gonna criticize me for something, don’t be guilty of doing the same thing. She shouldn’t be putting me down for something like that if it makes her out to be a hypocrite. It’s not nice.

Constance: You’re right, honey. It’s not.

Drew: That is messed up.

Randall: You know, what is messed up is that Elmer’s just sitting there and letting her drag your name through the mud like this without even trying to stop it.

Bridgette glances at him through splotchy eyes.

Randall: I thought you two were returnees and were going to stick together. He doesn’t even bother standing up for a fellow veteran while he lets his new islander girlfriend talk mad [censored] about you behind your back. That’s what’s messed up.

Drew: Alright, enough. Give her some space.

Randall: I know…

Drew and Constance continue to comfort Bridgette as she blows her nose and tries to compose herself.

The camera cuts to Drew watching Randall closely even as he continues to spew vitriol to Bridgette about Elmer and Kelli.

Later...

Jeff: Come on in, guys!

The Mwali and Pamanzi tribes arrive at the challenge, one after the other. Maverick and Elmer set their flags down.

Jeff: Mwali and Pamanzi, now getting your first look at the new Vailheu tribe.

In walks the five remaining members of Vailheu, as the other two tribes crane their necks to see who's missing.

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

There are a few shocked reactions. Maverick whistles. Markus is chuckling to himself. Kelli looks stunned and turns to share a look with Elmer.

Bridgette: Wooow…

The Vailheu tribe takes their place on their mat. Mallorie catches Bridgette's eye and winks.

Jeff: Alright, ready to get to today's immunity challenge? First things first, Kelli and Keira, I will take back the idols.

Jeff walks over and takes the idols back.

Jeff: Once again, immunity is back up for grabs. For today's challenge, you will be out in the water. On my go, each tribe member will swim out into the water, run up a ramp and dive back in to retrieve two bags of puzzle pieces tied down underwater. Once your tribe has released both bags, you will swim to a floating platform where you will use those pieces to assemble a pyramid puzzle. First two tribes to assemble their puzzles win immunity. In addition, you are playing for reward. First tribe to win gets…

He unveils a covered item next to him.

Jeff: Chickens!

Several castaways whoop and cheer.

Jeff: Second tribe will only win immunity. Losing tribe...nothing but a date with me at Tribal Council. Worth playing for? Before we begin, Mwali and Pamanzi each has to sit out one member. Mwali, who'll it be?

Hazel: [raising hand] Me, Jeff.

Jeff: Pamanzi?

Constance: I guess I'll sit out.

Jeff: Alright. Hazel and Constance, take your spots on the bench. Rest of you...We’ll get started.

The camera cuts to the Mwali puzzle station, then shows a closeup of the hidden immunity idol package attached underneath it.

Soon, all three tribes are out at their stations and awaiting Jeff’s signal.

Jeff: Survivors ready? Go!

The first member of each tribe races forward and leaps into the water, and starts swimming out.

Jeff: It is Maverick up first for Mwali, Kelli for Pamanzi and Eli for Vailheu. Maverick off to an early lead…

Maverick reaches his ramp first and clambers up, making his way up to the top, and promptly diving back in.

Eli gets to the ramp, and Kelli not far behind him.

Jeff: Maverick heading down for the bags…

Maverick is now diving down to untie the first of the two bags of pieces for Mwali.

Eli jumps off the ramp too, and begins to swim. Kelli jumps off as well, hot on his heels.

Jeff: Eli diving down to try and untie his bag too…

As Eli dives down, Kelli swims past him, headed for the puzzle platform at the end.

Jeff: Kelli, not even trying to untie the bags for her tribe. Interesting strategy…

Kelli gets to the platform.

Jeff: Go, Pamanzi!

Now Drew is leaping into the water, swimming out.

Underwater, Maverick successfully unties the bag and he and the bag both break the surface of the water.

Jeff: Maverick has the first bag for Mwali!

Hazel: Woohoo! Go, Maverickkk!

Maverick grabs the bag and begins swimming for the platform.

Eli surfaced for air, the bag unretrieved, gasping.

Jeff: Eli, not having much luck…

Eli shakes his head and decides to swim for the platform instead

Drew is up the ramp and jumps off.

Maverick arrives at the platform with his bag.

Jeff: Go, Mwali!

Erin is now in the water, paddling out.

Drew is heading underwater to work on his bag.

Eli makes it to his platform emptyhanded.

Jeff: Go, Vailheu!

Candy is heading into the water.

Erin is climbing up the ramp and she leaps off.

Underwater, Drew manages to untie his bag, and surfaces with it.

Jeff: Drew has the first bag for Pamanzi!

Drew begins swimming back, as Erin dives down for Mwali's second, and Candy makes it to Vailheu's ramp.

Jeff: It is Mwali and Pamanzi both tied for first with one bag each, and Vailheu still with none!

Erin begins untying her bag underwater.

Candy swims to her bag and dives down as well.

Drew reaches the red platform.

Jeff: Go, Randall!

Randall jumps into the water.

Erin surfaces for air, the bag unretrieved.

Jeff: Erin doesn't have the bag…

Hazel: Woo, let's go, Eeerin! Don't give up!

Erin dives back down for a second try, while Candy also resurfaces, coughing.

Candy: Dang it.

Jeff: Candy also facing some difficulty…

Candy goes back down.

Randall is up the ramp, and leaps into the water.

Candy resurfaces again, struggling. She gives up too, and begins swimming for the platform.

Jeff: Candy heading back...Vailheu still with no bags.

Eli looks dejected, sitting on the platform and awaiting Candy.

Randall dives down for his bag.

Candy gets to the platform, as Eli helps her up.

Jeff: Go, Vailheu!

Carter leaps into the water.

At last...Erin releases her bag.

Jeff: Erin has the second and final bag for Mwali!

Blake: Whoo!

Hazel: Yes! Go, Mwali!

She begins swimming back to her platform with the bag.

Randall comes up for air, blinking saltwater out of his eyes with a grimace.

Jeff: Randall also struggling…

Carter is up his ramp quick, and jumps into the water.

Randall goes back down again.

Erin reaches the blue platform.

Jeff: Go, Mwali!

Keira dives in.

Jeff: It is Mwali in a solid lead with both bags...Pamanzi with one, and Vailheu still not on the board.

Carter dives down to retrieve his bag.

Meanwhile, Randall again comes up, with nothing.

Jeff: Randall still can't get the bag for his tribe.

Randall: I can't [censored] see down there, man.

He begins paddling for the red platform where Drew and Kelli are.

Jeff: Randall gonna give up too…

Elmer is biting his nails at the other end, watching tensely alongside Bridgette.

Carter surfaces with his bag.

Candy: Woo! Yeah, Carter!

Mallorie: [aggressively clapping] Yes, Carter, yes!

Jeff: Carter with the first bag for Vailheu!

Carter begins swimming back, as Keira jumps in and begins swimming along near him with broad strokes.

Randall reaches the end, and now Elmer dives in, heading out.

Carter gets to his platform, and Mallorie jumps in.

Keira gets to hers a few seconds after, and now Blake jumps into the water.

Jeff: It is Elmer out ahead, heading straight for the second and final bag of puzzle pieces still in the water for Pamanzi. Mallorie, also heading out for her tribe's second. Blake, not far behind, but Mwali already has all their bags…

Elmer dives off the ramp, and sinks, already heading for the bag of puzzle pieces, his fingers a flurry even underwater.

Mallorie paddles out to hers too and quickly dives down to get her bag.

Blake is swimming past both of them.

Elmer releases his bag, and comes up, swimming for the Pamanzi platform.

Jeff: Elmer with the second bag for Pamanzi!

Constance: Good job, Elmer!

Randall makes a face.

Mallorie comes up for air, spluttering and cussing.

Jeff: Mallorie having trouble…

She goes back down.

Blake reaches his platform.

Jeff: Go, Markus!

Markus enters the water with a splash.

Jeff: Markus, the last member of Mwali heading out…

Lisa, the lone figure still on the original starting platform for Vailheu, watches rigidly as Markus swims out.

Elmer makes it back.

Jeff: Go, Bridgette!

Bridgette: [jumping] Wahoo!

Bridgette, the last person for Pamanzi, begins swimming out.

Mallorie comes up again, without the bag.

Mallorie: Can't [censored] get to it.

Carter: Just come back!

Candy: Yeah, come back.

Jeff: Mallorie, gonna start swimming to her platform...leaving Lisa to get the bag on her own.

Lisa looks comically concerned, eyes big and round with fear.

Markus jumps off his ramp, Bridgette barely a few steps away.

Both begin swimming to their respective platforms, with Markus still in the lead.

Mallorie gets to her platform and grumpily hoists herself up.

Jeff: Go, Lisa!

Lisa hops into the water with a squeal.

Jeff: Lisa, the last person left for the Vailheu tribe…

On the yellow floating platform, Eli nudges Carter.

Eli: [murmuring] We made her go last so she wouldn't have to go under but now look…

Carter: Yeah...this sucks.

Markus makes it to the Mwali platform.

Jeff: You're good! Mwali, get to work on your puzzle!

The members of Mwali begin opening up their bags of pieces and emptying out their contents onto the puzzle station. Hazel is applauding frenziedly from the sidelines, bouncing in her seat.

Lisa is climbing onto the ramp now, looking exhausted and out of breath.

Jeff: Come on, Lisa, let's go! You're still in this, don't stop!

Candy: Come ooon, Lisa, you can do this!

Pulling up her bikini bottom, Lisa hobbles up the ramp, wincing.

Bridgette gets to her platform, and clambers up.

Jeff: You're good, Pamanzi! Get started on your puzzle!

They get to opening their bags too.

Lisa teeters on the edge of her ramp.

Lisa: Brr.

Mallorie: Jump!

She jumps in, and surfaces, discombobulated.

Jeff: Lisa, heading out for the final bag for Vailheu!

Both Mwali and Pamanzi tribe members are now getting to work on their separate puzzles, turning pieces around and trying to get them to take shape.

Jeff: You are building a pyramid puzzle. It is the kind of puzzle you could spend forever working on, only to figure it out in an instant, just like that.

Lisa dives down for her bag, even as her tribe calls out feeble encouragement.

Jeff: Both Mwali and Pamanzi with huge headstarts...but this is Survivor. Anything and everything can and will happen, so never give up. Vailheu, you can still catch them.

The four members of Vailheu sitting on their platform waiting on Lisa don't look terribly hopeful.

The camera cuts to a shot of Lisa underwater, swimming around her bag, tugging at the knots, before surfacing.

Lisa takes a dramatic lungful of air, wiping at her wet hair.

Lisa: I can't do it!

Candy: Yes, you can, Lisa. Keep trying!

Mallorie: [quiet voice] No, she can't.

Lisa dives back down.

Carter: I can go out again if you want me to.

Mallorie: I feel like you should. I think you're our best shot.

The Mwali and Pamanzi tribes are still working hard, several of them looking frazzled.

Kelli: Wait, so this goes here…

Bridgette: No, I don't think so. I think-

Randall: We need to find a corner piece first. Find a f-

Elmer: Take a step back, guys, let's look at it. We got time, just stay calm.

Randall: Yeah, well, we don't got a lot of it.

Mwali is faring no better.

Maverick is pacing around the station, carrying a fat piece in his arms like a baby, studying the incomplete mess they have on their station that resembles nothing like a pyramid.

Markus: Then this goes here…

Blake: I don't follow.

Erin looks like she is concentrating intently on Markus' direction.

Maverick: ...I'm lost, guys, to be honest.

Keira: I am too.

Lisa comes up for air a second time.

Carter: Lisa, come back.

Candy: Come back, Lisa!

Carter: Come back, I'll swap out.

Lisa begins swimming to them.

Jeff: Lisa heading back now without the bag, as Carter prepares to swim back for it...huge setback for Vailheu. Almost none of them were able to retrieve a bag except for Carter.

Eli looks irritated. Mallorie scowls, sitting crosslegged and fuming.

Lisa returns, and Carter dives back in.

The Pamanzi puzzle is starting to come together.

Bridgette: Put that piece there...yes, that one! The one you're carrying, Drew…

Drew moves pieces about.

Elmer: Right, right…

Jeff: Pamanzi starting to put their puzzle together...

Kelli: Omigosh, we're gonna win again. [snickering]

Elmer: Move that there!

Bridgette: And that one!

Drew moves back and forth with pieces, as Randall tries to help.

Carter is diving down under for the second bag.

Jeff: Pamanzi's puzzle is almost fully formed...while Vailheu watches dejectedly from the sidelines, helpless to do anything…

Candy looks on sadly. Mallorie's scowl has subsided, replaced with tired resignation.

Drew puts in another piece, and Bridgette follows up with another, and another, and then…

Drew: Jeff, Jeff! We got it!

The Pamanzi tribe steps away for Jeff to examine the puzzle as Drew puts in the top piece. Over on Mwali, Blake and Markus are struggling to see what they've done.

Jeff walks around the puzzle, checking it, before throwing his hands in the air.

Jeff: Pamanzi wins immunity!

The Pamanzi tribe whoops in celebration and the five grinning tribe members run to share a big group hug. Constance is jumping up and down by the sitout bench, smiling gleefully and clapping.

Jeff: We're looking for one more!

The camera zooms in on a spot in the water, as Carter bursts up, the final bag for Vailheu popping up next to him.

Jeff: Carter has it!

Mallorie immediately perks up, as do Candy and Eli.

Mallorie: Yes, Carter! Yes!

Eli: Woo!

Carter swims back, and Candy pulls him onto the platform.

Jeff: Vailheu, start working on your puzzle!

Carter and Eli quickly get to untying their bags, sending the pieces scattering all over the platform, as the girls rush to grab them and get to work.

Jeff: It is now down to Mwali and Vailheu. Vailheu already went to the previous Tribal Council, they do not want to have to vote someone off again.

Mallorie: We have to work fast, guys.

Blake glances over at them to see how far they've come along.

Maverick: I'm still stumped, guys.

Markus steps back to survey their unfinished mess of pieces, looking lost.

Blake: How is this so difficult?

Keira: We are not smart. [chuckling]

The five members of Vailheu are doing their best to catch up, all looking reinvigorated.

Eli: Alright, it's just a stupid puzzle. We got this.

Mallorie: Candy, take that piece. That piece goes here.

Candy: I got it.

The Pamanzi tribe is watching on both sides as both the Mwali and Vailheu tribes rush to finish their puzzles before the other.

Hazel looks like she is on the edge of her seat on the sitout bench.

Hazel: Come ooon, Mwali, let's do this!

Eli: And then that piece goes here, yeah, yeah, that one…

Jeff: The Vailheu puzzle is slowly starting to form…

Eli is calling out hurried instructions as Candy and Carter rush to arrange various pieces. Mallorie is observing the puzzle and moving with them. Lisa is standing off to the side, looking both clueless and awkward, a perpetual look of confusion on her face.

Eli: Over here is a flat piece, right here. Yes! And that triangular one-

Mallorie: I've got it, I've got it…

Mallorie runs around the puzzle carrying pieces.

Jeff: Vailheu working together very nicely...sans Lisa.

Lisa shoots Jeff a slightly cross look.

Blake glances over for the umpteenth time even as the other members of Mwali scurry helplessly around him.

Blake: I just can't figure this [censored] out.

Erin looks desperate, trying to cram two pieces that don't fit together.

Markus: That's not it.

Erin: Shoot. What are we doing wrong?

Maverick: Maybe if we turn this over…

Keira: I got no clue.

Jeff: Vailheu moving things around faster, they're speeding up!

Sure enough, the Vailheu tribe has only a few pieces left, and the energy is clearly picking up among them as Eli commands the other three around like an orchestra. Lisa sinks to her knees, pulling at her hair.

Jeff: Do they have it?

Candy and Mallorie help put the last two pieces on top.

Eli: That's it. We got it. We got it!

Blake glances over at their puzzle, frazzled. Maverick looks up from the puzzle pieces he is carrying, nervous.

Carter: Jeff, Jeff!

Mallorie: Jeff!

Jeff: Vailheu thinks they have it...

Eli throws his hands in the air and looks at Jeff expectantly. Candy is jumping up and down almost uncertainly, holding her fists up to her chin in rigid anticipation. Lisa is on her knees, looking scared.

Jeff: And they do! Vailheu wins immunity! What a huge comeback!

The five of them erupt into shrieks and cries of celebration. Candy leaps into a gleeful hug with Mallorie, who is laughing and thumping her on the back as the boys gather them into a group hug. Lisa gets up, smiling weakly too, and Carter welcomes her in.

Over on the sidelines, Hazel hangs her head, crestfallen, as Constance pats her sympathetically on the back. Erin winces, disappointed, staring bleakly at their incomplete puzzle. Maverick lets the pieces fall out of his clutches.

Maverick: Damn.

Markus sinks to the floor in defeat, and when he is sure no one is looking, he slips his hand under and grabs the idol from underneath, hurriedly shoving it down his pants in a split second.

Constance narrows her eyes at him from the sidelines, as if sure she caught something but not entirely certain either.

The tribes take their respective places on their mats again.

Jeff: Pamanzi, congratulations. Well-earned.

He hands a giggling Kelli the idol, and she raises it above her head with a whoop as the other five cheer and clap.

Jeff: Immunity once again. You will also have chickens waiting for you back at camp.

Kelli plants a kiss atop the idol as she rejoins her tribe.

Jeff: Vailheu, congratulations. Great come from behind victory. Once again, Survivor continues to be an unpredictable ride. Immunity for you as well…

Carter takes the idol from him. Lisa is bouncing on the balls of her feet, elated.

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

The two tribes dive back into the water and begin swimming out.

Jeff turns back to regard the Mwali tribe.

Jeff: Mwali, unfortunately for you, I got nothing for you but a date with me tonight at Tribal Council where one of you will be the second person voted out of this game.

Hazel flinches and nods. Erin has a dark look in her eyes.

Jeff: You got the afternoon to figure out who it's gonna be. Grab your stuff and head on out. See you at Tribal.

As the six of them head into the water, the camera focuses on Blake as he swims away.

"mwali"

- Tonight, it realistically only comes down to one of two options. I want a returnee to go home first. I understand people on the tribe have been iffy on Hazel and that she might not be mentally strong enough to cope with this game. I get that. And I also understand that Keira doesn't talk as much with the rest of us or really bother to gel well with the rest of the tribe. But those are trivial matters. The fact still remains that the veterans are the biggest threats in the game, especially the Champions. Their time on Survivor is done. Their shot at the million is over. The spotlight's for the newbies this season. So either Markus or Erin, ehh...one of them's gotta be the first one to go. And I'm gonna push to make sure that that's what's going to happen tonight.

Back at the Mwali camp, the tribe is returning to their shelter and dumping their belongings.

Blake: Hey, guys, before we all disperse and do our things, I just wanted to gather the group for a bit and talk.

The others stand around, looking at him expectantly. Erin raises an eyebrow.

Blake: You know, I don’t think it was anyone’s fault out there. We all tried our hardest…[shrugs] it just wasn’t enough. But we’ll bounce back from this...and do even better the next time.

Maverick nods empathetically. Keira nods, staring at the floor with an unreadable expression.

Blake: That’s all. Alright, let’s go and do...whatever.

The group disperses a bit. Erin blinks, looking confused, but shrugs and turns away.

Markus nudges her in the arm as he sidles up to her.

Markus: ‘Kay, so...we need to talk.

Erin: Oh yeah...definitely.

By the well, Markus and Erin are meeting to discuss their options.

Markus: So...things might not be looking too great. But it’s not over until it’s over, I say.

Erin: Did you get it, at least?

Markus grins mischievously, digging around inside his pants and taking out the idol.

Erin: Awesome! You really are the Idol King. Two last time, and one again now, not even a week in.

Markus: I don’t think you wanna touch it. [laughing]

Erin: Yeah, definitely not. But this is great news! Now, at least, we have something to work with, some form of ammunition.

"mwali"

- Markus has the hidden immunity idol, and I am ecstatic! He really pulled through today. Having to get the idol at the challenge itself is no joke, and anyone could have spotted him at any moment. But while I’m happy for him, truly...I’m also scared. Because now...I’m the vulnerable one going into Tribal tonight. I don’t necessarily have that idol for protection. I want to believe Markus would use it on me if the time comes, but it’s also so early on in the game and so much is up in the air. I won’t know I’m for sure safe unless I have that idol in my possession itself. As it stands, I can only hope he can keep me safe and somehow, we’ll both make it out of tonight alive, as unlikely as it seems.

Markus tucks his idol away.

Erin: The way I see things standing right now…[counting fingers] is that Blake, Hazel and Maverick...are all still together.

Markus: [nodding] Still.

Erin: Mhm. And Keira’s on the outs of that.

Markus: Would she vote with us?

Erin: If we get her to recognize that she’s the fourth person in a group of four, then yeah, she should.

Markus: Honestly, I don’t fancy our chances. She has to know that, given the numbers, even if she were to flip, we’d just tie the vote up. And if I were her, I wouldn’t put my own neck on the line in a tie vote for two returning players, especially two past winners.

Erin: Good point. But then what other choice do we have? Unless the Family turns on each other…

Markus: Another possibility is we get them to vote for Keira.

The camera cuts to Keira sitting by the shelter, staring blankly off into the distance.

Markus: Like you said, she’s the fourth in the foursome. They’d have no blood on their hands voting her off.

Erin: Yeah, but what reason would they have to vote her off? Yes, she hasn’t talked much around camp but the general vibe I’m getting is that the Family are itching to take you or me out first, and send a message to the other two tribes. We’re the black sheep of this family, Markus.

Markus sighs, rubbing his temples.

Erin: In any other season where you and me aren’t two of three Champions, maybe they vote Keira off before us, but not here.

Markus: How do you think we’re gonna make it past tonight then?

Erin: We might need to play your idol.

Markus bites his lip, visibly conflicted.

Erin: It could be our only shot at taking out one of the Family now. And then, with the numbers down, we might be able to flip Keira to our side, and take control of this tribe. That’s what I’ve come up with.

"mwali"

- Markus and I are playing from the bottom of this tribe right now. No one wants to talk game with us; everyone avoids us like the plague because, face it, no one wants their shot at a million dollars ripped away by a couple of people who’ve ALREADY won a million dollars before. We’re the two losers sitting at the outcast table at recess and the Family’s the pretty, popular clique, with Keira desperately clinging on to stay in with the cool kids. I don’t have a lot of faith in Keira flipping, so Markus’ clutch idol find might be the decisive bomb that we need to blow Mwali up at tonight’s Tribal and [mimes an explosion] blow the dynamics of this tribe wide open by breaking up the Family.

Markus: If I were to play my idol tonight...who would I play it on?

Erin: It’s your idol, and...I don’t want to dictate your idol play by forcing you to play it on me if you feel that you’re in more danger. It’s your choice and I respect it. But...speaking from a logical point of view, I really...really do believe that...their first target is going to be me and not you.

Markus nods, looking down at the well and not responding as he mulls it over.

Markus: And who would we take out if the idol play is successful?

Erin: If we control who goes home, we might as well go for broke, and aim right for the head honcho himself.

The camera cuts to Blake chewing on a piece of coconut by the campfire, looking bored.

Markus: And what if they split the votes, to avoid an idol?

Erin: ...I didn’t think of that.

Markus: Well, if they do…

Erin: It would be a tie between whichever one of us didn’t play the idol-

Markus: -and whoever we vote for.

Erin: That’s not good enough.

Markus: ...It would be ideal...if we could avoid having to play an idol altogether, and somehow make it out of tonight alive with the two of us.

Erin: Yeah.

Markus: Maybe...we still try pitching Keira? If we can get at least one person on our side…

Erin: I can try talking to Keira. Heck, I’ll poke around Blake’s mind too, see what he’s thinking for tonight and how much my bull[censored] radar detects he’s spewing. [laughing]

Markus: Right. And I’ll try talking with Maverick.

Back at camp, Keira is getting up and out of the shelter, and heading down to the water.

Maverick turns around to watch her leave, before turning back to Blake, who is sitting across the fire from him.

Maverick: Yo.

Blake: Yeah?

Maverick: What’s the plan for tonight?

Blake glances around to make sure no one else is present to overhear them. Markus and Erin are still in the woods and Hazel has disappeared on her own.

Blake turns back to Maverick and nods.

Blake: Plan doesn’t change. One of them two goes, period.

Maverick: [shrugs] Fine by me. Hazel and Keira?

Blake: We get them onboard, and we’re good. I guarantee you…[makes hand motion] those two are going to be scrambling hardcore later. They know they’re on the chopping block and it’s just a matter of which one of ‘em the cleaver’s coming down on. Just tune them out...and it’s fine.

Maverick nods.

Hazel returns to camp, adjusting her loose hoodie, looking a little worse for wear.

Hazel: Heyyy…

Blake: You alright, sweetheart?

Maverick: Feeling okay?

Hazel: Yeah, I’m fine...thanks.

She plops down next to them.

Hazel: We need to talk.

Blake: I agree.

Maverick: I’m all ears.

Hazel: Like...I dunno where you guys are standing with me after the other day. Like…

Blake: “Standing with you”? What do you mean?

Hazel: I don’t know if you guys are feeling...I don’t know, different? About me, after I nearly had a breakdown, I guess, but...I promise you guys, I’m still here and I still want to work with you guys. My head is still [gestures] fully in the game, and I’m with y’all.

Blake: We know.

Hazel: So like, just tell me who to vote for tonight, and I promise you I will write that person’s name down. Like, I won’t even question it. That’s how badly I want to prove it to you two that I have your backs.

Blake: Like I said to Mav, the plan hasn’t changed. I said it from the beginning and I meant it. A veteran’s gotta be first to go. That much is obvious, and I stand by that.

Hazel: Okay. Then it’s a done deal. [claps hands] They’re done for.

Blake: Let’s just pick a name right now, and stick to it. No scheming, no flipflopping, just...pick one of them to go, and that’s that.

Hazel: Well, I think Erin should go.

Maverick: I think Erin too.

Blake: I can see that between the two, Erin’s not gonna contribute as much in challenges as Markus is. But are you sure you want to keep Markus? Markus has proven he’s way better at surviving being on the bottom than Erin has. Let’s not forget he’s a huge strategic and social threat, like...massive. We can’t forget that.

Hazel swallows, eyes on Blake as he lays out his thoughts.

"mwali"

- It’s my first Tribal Council, aaand...I’m feeling a bit nervous. For those of us that are new, we don’t really know what we’re doing, but these guys...Erin and Markus, I mean, this ain’t their first rodeo. Who knows what they could be scheming up to? I’m hoping that people’s perception of me...isn’t that I’m weak or incapable of handling this game, aaand...hopefully that won’t make me out to be a target at this upcoming vote. I honestly just want us to vote one of the two veterans off as quickly as possible, to get that negative...stressful energy out of the camp, and then come back right after for a good night’s sleep.

Later in the day, Blake and Keira are talking along the beach, standing by the water’s edge and eating coconut.

Keira: So what’s the plan for tonight?

Blake: Me, Maverick and Hazel were thinking...we do one of the returnees first. It’s the easiest option, it doesn’t ruffle any feathers around camp…

Keira: Right.

Blake: And they’re both threats in this game. Can’t let them get too far. You gotta cut them loose whenever you get the opportunity, because who knows when you might get another one? Erin or Markus’ gotta go tonight. We haven’t decided which yet, but definitely...it has to be one of them.

Keira: Alright, I’m down for it. You don’t need to say nuthin’ else. But...what’ll I say if they ask me, later on, whose name I’m putting down?

Blake chews on his lower lip, thinking.

Blake: Tell them Hazel.

Keira: Hazel? Got it.

Blake: Say it’s because...she was breaking down, she’s not cut out for this game...and it’s the common consensus that that’s what’s best for the tribe.

"mwali"

- Tonight, the plan is that we want to blindside one of the two veterans, as a tribe. In case one of the two has an idol, it is paramount that we do not let them catch on to the fact that one of them is going home. So the ideal scenario is to lie to them about who the target is. Normally, I would suggest Keira be the decoy target because...she’s not in my alliance. She’s the fourth person on the outs of a tight trio, and...none of us really have a close bond with her. But I don’t want to tell Keira to her face that...she would be the alternative boot option. Like...that’s stupid. I want Keira to believe that she’s with us. By telling Keira that the decoy boot is going to be Hazel, it should hopefully make her think that...she’s not at the bottom of our hierachy, and so she’ll be more incentivized to vote with us against the vets if she thinks she’s in a good spot, which she really isn’t, but...she doesn’t need to know that. Truth is, she’d be the first to go right after them both. So...I’m spreading this fake lie that Hazel is the alternative boot. After her breakdown the other day, there are definitely eyes on her already so it’s not like her name being thrown out there is coming out of left field. I’m confident Hazel believes in our alliance and will understand we have her back, and...no matter what Erin and Markus think, it won’t be Hazel or Keira leaving tonight. It HAS to be one of them. I feel very strongly about this. You do not pass up an opportunity to take out one of two former winners when you get the chance.

Maverick is heading into the forest, where Markus is waiting for him in the shade of a nearby tree.

Maverick: Hey, man. What’s shakin?

Markus: I am, that’s for sure. [chuckling]

Maverick: Why, man? What, because of tonight?

Markus: Yeah. I think...it's gonna be me, probably.

Maverick: You? Because you're a returning player?

Markus: And a former winner. The most RECENT former winner too.

Maverick: I told you I'd have your back, and I meant it. You're safe tonight, I promise you. No one I've spoken to has even thrown out your name, bro. Besides, if you don't feel safe...just play an idol, right? [snickering]

Markus: ...Psh. [chuckling] I don't got no idol.

Maverick: So you do have one!

Markus: No. I don't.

"mwali"

- I do have an idol. But I'm not gonna tell Maverick that! [laughing] We may have the Eminem alliance going, but I still don't completely trust him. Nor am I certain how strongly his loyalties lie with the Family and with his own, individual game. So I'm just gonna lie and deny! Finding the idol at the challenge was a huge risk today and I am not throwing it all away by revealing that I have it to someone I don't need to know. I only share secrets like that with completely trustworthy allies. It was Annabeth last season, and it has to be Erin on this tribe this season. If things go south tonight, I might need to play this idol on me to stay in the game. The less people who know, the better!

Maverick: Listen, trust me. You got nothing to worry about tonight. Just chill..keep your head down...and you're good.

Markus: Okay. I trust you. Should I at least talk to Blake about it?

Maverick: The vote? Go for it.

"mwali"

- When I came into this game, I wanted to make myself known as a strong player. And to that end, I also want to surround myself with strong players. There's no doubt that Markus is a strong player. But Mama didn't raise no follower. Blake is right to be careful of him. I'm wary of Markus and am only going to use him as long as he's good for my game. I'm telling him he's safe, because as far as I know, the plan is still to do Erin, and I want him to stay trusting of me for as long as possible, until I'm ready to [draws line across neck] cut him loose, so to speak. [snickers]

Down by the water, Erin is talking with Keira.

Erin: Heyyy.

Keira: What's up, girl?

Erin: Listen, I know we haven't talked a lot of game, but there's something you should know. I am pretty positive that...there is a main alliance of three ruling this tribe right now.

The camera cuts to Blake standing by the campfire, then to Maverick and Hazel laughing with each other in the shelter.

Erin: I've played this game before and I trust my instincts when I say that...it's plain to see. And it leaves you, me and Markus on the outside looking in.

Keira is quiet, staring at the water and washing between her toes, barely acknowledging her words.

Erin: Even now, I still am not totally sure what's going to happen tonight. And I think it's gonna be me.

Keira: You, why?

Erin: Because they're threatened by me. Blake and Hazel and even Maverick. They're threatened by playing with two returning players, and former winners. But that doesn't mean anything. It's a brand new season. And right now, Markus and I aren't in control of anything. He is.

Keira: He? Who's 'he'?

Erin: Blake, of course, the Godfather himself.

The camera cuts again to Blake, looking calculating as he maneuvers a toothpick with his teeth.

Erin: Because, you know, the Family...they’ll only see you as No. Four, and they’re going to keep you in their back pocket only as long as you’re a number for them, but beyond that...you’re the first one they’d lose.

Keira: “The Family”? S’that what you call ‘em?

Erin: What? ...Oh, yeah. Sorry, that must’ve slipped out. Yeah, I...came up with a little nickname for them. It’s cause them three always go around as the obvious trio. And Blake is like the Godfather.

Keira: ...Right.

Erin: That's why me and Markus are kind of on the bottom right now. And we think you are too. We need to come up with a way to keep that trio from running things.

"mwali"

- Erin pitches to me that...there's an alliance of three trying to take over this tribe, and it consists of Blake, Hazel and Maverick. But three people isn't going to monopolize a six. I'm actually in agreement with Blake that the veterans like her and Markus are the most threatening, not only on this tribe but in this game. I think we lucked out having the two biggest targets and most reputable players on our tribe to start with and we're being gifted the chance to take them out before the merge.

Keira: Personally, I don't think that's the case.

Erin: You don't?

Keira: No, I don't. Besides, I haven't heard you or Markus' name, I've only heard Hazel.

Erin: Hazel? What, cause she cried the other day?

Keira: Blake said she was the obvious weak link. I love Hazel to death, but it's true. So she should be the first one to go. I don't think you need to concern yourself.

Erin looks troubled still.

"mwali"

- Keira REFUSES to believe that she is fourth. To her, it is inconceivable that she could be on the bottom of the hierarchy! Girl, wake up! You are not a part of their alliance. You are just their pawn. She completely lacks the drive to go against the Family. Even if we tell her about Markus’ idol, now I fear she’ll just go back and rat us out to Godfather Blake, and next thing I know, I’ll be the one getting sent home because they’ll be too scared to put their votes onto Markus. I completely understand why she might be hesitant to jeopardize her own standing on the tribe for a couple of former winners, but her own game is on the line here. It was simply frustrating to see that and be unable to have her see it too. I don't believe Hazel is going home. I think it'll be. And it sucks to think that...I might not be able to do anything about it. Markus and his idol might be my last hope.

Returning to camp, Markus is standing with Blake over the fire, and leans in to talk to the latter in a low voice.

Markus: What are you thinking for tonight?

Blake is quiet for a moment before speaking.

Blake: [whispering] Vote for Hazel.

Markus: Hazel? Really?

Blake: [nodding] She's the weakest link. She'll drag the tribe down with her. Too young, erratic behavior, breaking down...you get the gist.

Markus looks deep in thought.

Blake chews nonchalantly on a piece of roasted coconut, spitting flakes out into the sand.

Blake: No need for dramatics, tonight. She doesn't think she's going, so don't let her catch on.

"mwali"

- Blake surprised me today, claiming that the main target that night is Hazel. And that's very fishy to me. He and Hazel have had such a close father-daughter relationship in this game that one can't help but be suspicious that he's throwing her name out there. It ho honestly feels like it could be a ploy to throw me off his scent, which is that the real target for the night is going to be me or Erin. Maverick's still tight-lipped on the matter so I don't know for sure what's really going on tonight, but I do know that we need to do something big if we're gonna shake up this tribe.

Markus and Erin are next meeting up with Hazel near the treeline. She tugs on her sleeves absentmindedly, casting Markus a suspicious look as he talks to her.

Markus: And I don't know what it is you've heard or think you know about tonight, but I just wanted you to know that your name has been tossed out there.

Hazel: No way. By who?

Erin: Blake!

Hazel: Blake? Blake wouldn't do that to me…

Erin: Yes, he would!

Markus: But he did.

Erin: He clearly figured you were a disposable option to him.

Hazel: No way…

Erin: It's true.

Hazel: Are you guys lying to me?

Erin: Why would we lie?

Hazel: Why wouldn't you, if you think you're going home?

Erin bites her lip impatiently. Markus looks worried.

Markus: [murmuring to Erin] This is going nowhere…

"mwali"

- Blake threw Hazel's own name out as an option to go home and...she's still loyal to him. Is everyone blind to the fact that he's controlling this tribe right now? First Keira...and now this. He's brainwashed the entire tribe. [facepalms] Forget a mob family, this is turning into the Cult of Blake now!

Hazel leaves, and Erin turns to Markus.

Erin: I really don't think she's the actual target. I'm convinced it's you or me, and it'll probably be me.

Markus: Well, what do we do? The only other name out there is Hazel. I don't know, unless you wanted to try and take a shot at Blake instead.

Erin: I don't know...I don't know what to do anymore. I'm kinda at my wits' end, almost. We can't vote for Keira, because she's still our biggest hope, but that's not saying much cos I think she just wants to stay safe and stay out of the drama. But she won't flip and she can't be an alternative target, so where does that leave us? I really think that, unless you pull out an idol, one of us won't live to see tomorrow.

Markus sighs, dragging a hand over his face.

Markus: Survivor never gets easier, does it?

Erin: I actually think it's gotten even harder for me this time around. [laughing]

Back at camp, Keira is approaching Blake and Hazel.

Keira: You should know that the other two are getting paranoid.

Hazel: Markus and Erin, right?

Keira: Yeah. She says you three are in an alliance.

Hazel: Us three?

Keira: You guys, and Maverick…

Blake makes a face, chortling.

Blake: Okie dokie...that's news to me.

Keira: She referred to you guys as “the Family”.

Blake makes a face, laughing a little.

Blake: The what now? What, like...like some kinda Russian mob or something?

"mwali"

- Keira shared with me a little nugget of information that...Erin’s been going around labelling Maverick, Hazel and I as “the Family”. It is kinda funny. I’m not cranky enough that I don’t see the humor in that name. But...the Family? You make it sound like some cheesy Italian mob. I guess that makes me the Godfather of the alliance! [chortling] Which, really, is quite flattering, to say the least. I suppose, being the oldest man, I do fit the role.

Blake: If she thinks we're all in some mafia family or something, we should all sign our votes to make it official. [laughing] Make it look like I really called out a hit on her.

Maverick is arriving now.

Maverick: What's up?

Blake: Get a load of this. Apparently we're the Family now.

Maverick: [frowns] We're...a family? Wha…?

Hazel: Not a family...The Family. Like a mafia family...that's what Erin's called our 'alliance'. And Blake's the 'Godfather'.

Maverick: [snickers] Oh wow...really? That's rich.

Blake: Like I was saying, she thinks we're a mafia family? We should all sign our votes or something with some sort of symbol...make it look like a real mafia hitjob.

Hazel: Ooh, that sounds fun! Let's do a heart.

Keira: Hearts on votes are pretty common.

Blake: What about a star, then?

Hazel: Ooh, that's a better idea. Let's do that…

Blake: Then she's done. [pointing at everyone in turn] One, two, three, four...she's a goner.

Hazel: So much for a past winner, huh?

Blake: I think she got lucky her season. She had three guys on her tribe who all really liked and protected her. The girls she aligned with too were all receptive. But this time around, the guys don't wanna work with her and the girls don't wanna work with her.

Maverick: She's in a corner.

Blake: Nowhere to go. [laughing] The perfect assassination.

"mwali"

- Blake strikes me as...a very shrewd man. And...that does scare me. Erin’s totally right. We are in an alliance; Blake, Hazel and I. And to hear that she’s dubbed him the Godfather? ...That bothers me. I didn’t come here to be no sidekick to a man who’s being treated like he’s the Godfather. I came to Survivor to play my own game, not somebody else’s! That was the part that bothered me the most, about hearing what Erin had to say about our alliance.

Maverick is stroking his chin, watching Blake even as he laughs with an equally delighted Hazel.

The sun is slowly approaching the horizon.

Markus is staring out at the water, as Maverick comes up to join him.

Maverick: Yo.

Markus: Hey, man.

Maverick: I gotta be honest with you. It sounds like Erin’s in hot water tonight.

Markus: That’s what I figured.

Maverick: Word got back to Blake and Hazel that she’s been calling us the Family?

Markus stares at him, surprise registering in his eyes.

Markus: That the case? From whom?

Maverick: Keira told him.

Markus sighs.

Markus: Right. Figures.

Maverick: Have you two been calling Blake the Godfather?

Markus: Wow. You caught on to that too? How much did Erin tell Keira?

Maverick: [shrugs] Beats me.

Markus: So the Hazel vote was a lie too then?

It is Maverick’s turn to look surprised.

Maverick: What Hazel vote?

Markus: Blake and Keira have told me and Erin separately throughout the day that...Hazel is the target tonight.

Maverick: What? Get out of here. This is the first I’m hearing of it.

Markus: Well...it’s true. They’ve been throwing her under the bus the whole day for her behavior before.

Maverick: What…? He didn’t tell me and her jack [censored] about this…

Markus looks excited now, as Maverick curses, scowling out at the ocean and shaking his head.

"mwali"

- It pisses me off now that Blake was throwing Hazel out there as a decoy boot option, without even thinking to ask me and her what we thought of it. If we’re going to be in an alliance, you need to consult us before you pull a stunt like that. It’s bad enough that he’s being given all the credit of some kind of ‘Godfather’, like he’s one man running the whole show, but to try to take all the power on the tribe for himself by naming whoever he wants as targets? That’s where we’re going to have a problem. I don’t like giving up all my power in the game to one guy. I told myself before I came out here that I wanted to make big power plays in the game of Survivor, because those are the players that win at the end. Maybe making a big power play of my own accord, this early in the game, will be the move that defines who I am as a power player.

Maverick: I don’t like that. I admit, Blake and I were working together. But all this scheming, this lying, this unnecessary deceit...it’s just nasty to me. I don’t like that he’s getting all this credit, and I especially don’t like the perception that he’s the only one calling the shots.

Markus: Dude, I am loving what I’m hearing. It’s not too late to change things.

Maverick: If I gave you the word now, would you really vote out Blake?

The camera cuts to Blake again, busy packing things up for the night.

Markus: Yes. Absolutely. I told you, dude. I’m with you. Whatever happens tonight, we’re doing it together. M and M, right?

Maverick: Right. [sighs] I got a lot to think about.

Markus: We can get Erin, and if the three of us are doing something, we can still probably get Keira. Keira just wants to go where the numbers are, that much is obvious. She won’t stick with them if there’s a tie vote.

Maverick: I’m aware, man.

Markus: You tell me what you want to do tonight, and I’ll do it.

Markus claps Maverick on the back and departs. Maverick sighs, covering his mouth and continuing to look out at the water, as the sun slowly sets.

The sky darkens, as the Mwali tribe arrives at Tribal Council. Jeff: Behind each of you is a torch. Grab one, dip it in and get fire.

The six of them light their torches.

Jeff: Fire represents your life. When your fire is gone, so are you.

Everyone sits down.

Jeff: Welcome to Tribal Council, for those of you who are new.

Hazel claps soundlessly, beaming. Maverick grins and laughs.

Jeff: And for those of you who have been here before...welcome back.

Erin tips her hat at Jeff, smiling to herself. Markus nods, smiling slightly, but looking troubled all the same.

Jeff: Markus, you were here at Tribal Council not all that long ago; the very last, Final Tribal Council of your season, to be exact.

Markus: I appreciate you not mentioning that as much, Jeff. [laughing] My being a very recent winner is not exactly a great help to my game right about now.

Erin smirks knowingly. Blake’s eyes dart to him.

Jeff: Well, why do you say that?

Markus: It’s just that...it’s pretty obvious that being a returning player is bad enough when you’re playing with a group of newcomers. It makes you out to be a pretty obvious target. What makes matters worse is being a returning ‘Champion’. For everyone to know you’ve played before and won, and to have seen the way you played to win...your entire game is laid out there on the table for everyone to see. It becomes all the more harder to lower your status as a threat, and when people are looking for all kinds of reasons to vote someone out...things get very difficult and it becomes increasingly harder to stay alive. Survivor’s a very political game, and being a previous winner...it’s like being elected President once before. No one would want to see you get the same treatment again.

Jeff: That’s interesting you say that. Erin, do you agree with Markus’ assessment that the returning players, especially the returning Champions, are being discriminated against in this game?

Erin: I wouldn’t use the word ‘discriminate’ but yeah...totally. I don’t know how well Bridgette is handling it on her tribe, but here on Mwali...that is, certainly, a pretty big factor. We definitely feel...me and Markus, that is...we definitely feel that it’s harder to avoid being a target, both early on and late in the game, when everyone else in the game knows that...you’ve already won the million dollars before. That just strengthens everyone else’s drive to get those players out, because it’s bad enough to lose a million dollars. I’m sure not everyone would be happy to lose it to someone who’s already won it before.

Keira scratches at her hair, listening quietly.

Jeff: Blake, do you believe that Markus’ and Erin’s past reputations as former Sole Survivors make them easy targets tonight?

Blake: It’s unfortunate to say, but um...absolutely. [laughing]

Erin purses her lips, looking away. Markus looks deep in thought. Maverick’s brow creases as he listens to Blake speak.

Blake: I think the general sentiment on the tribe is that Markus and Erin are both very strong, sociable players. They both won their respective seasons for being the best players on their seasons. They came into this game...carrying those reputations with them. I don’t think it matters whether their win was more recent or long ago in the past, as is the distinction between the two of them. It doesn’t change the fact that because they’ve both known what it’s like to win the game before...they’re dangerous.

Jeff: Markus, you can’t get any more matter-of-fact than that?

Markus: No, you can’t, Jeff. [laughs] I don’t know if that’s him being confident that one of us is going home tonight or…

Blake: Oh, I never said I was going to vote for one of them tonight. I’m just answering the question, which is that, yes...both Markus and Erin are bound to be targeted at some point for both being former winners.

Erin’s mouth twitches.

Markus: ...Either way...even if that’s the case or no...I’m no stranger to playing from the bottom, Jeff. So really...this is just Round Two for me. [laughing]

Jeff: Hazel, this must all be very exciting. To be coming into the game and be playing with two former winners, and with the tribe dynamics the way that they are, how do you know for certain if you’re making the right vote tonight?

Hazel: There are lots of different reasons to vote someone out in Survivor. Someone may be too weak, someone may be too strong…

As Hazel talks, Maverick beckons to Markus, who leans over as Maverick whispers in his ear.

Blake catches the movement and frowns in their direction.

Hazel: Whatever the reason, I’m trusting in the people I’ve spoken with and I do believe that tonight, we will be making the best decision for the tribe and I’ll be making the best decision for my game.

Maverick finishes whispering to Markus, who leans back, nodding at him.

Erin has noticed their little interaction too, looking curious.

Jeff: Maverick, what was that?

Maverick: What was what, Jeff?

Even as he speaks, Markus is tapping Erin on the shoulder to whisper to her.

Jeff: You want to share what you just whispered to Markus?

Maverick: Mm...Nah. I don’t think I will.

Hazel casts Blake a questioning look, and he shrugs at her. Keira is turning back too now, to watch as Maverick starts whispering to Hazel.

Jeff: Wow.

Erin looks a little hysterical as she hisses something back at Markus, who is still whispering to her in a hushed voice. Blake is now leaning in to the conversation with Maverick and Hazel.

Maverick: [whispering] ...wanted to know why you threw her name out there.

Blake: [whispering] ...what we had to do to keep Keira…

Hazel: [whispering] The plan stays, right?

Keira is the only one not doing any whispering, sitting calmly in her seat and staring back at Jeff even as the others kick up a whisperfest on either side of her.

Jeff: How you doing tonight, Keira?

Keira: I’m doing just fine, Jeff. [chuckling] A little nervous, but...I’m good.

Jeff: Even as the tribe erupts into whispered conversations around you, you still feel good about tonight’s vote?

Keira thinks on it, and nods.

Keira: Yeah. Yeah, I’m feeling pretty comfortable about where tonight is heading. I know who I’m voting for and I’m not wavering on that.

Blake taps her on her shoulder now, and is whispering in her ear. The other four are no longer whispering and have settled down. Erin looks scared. Maverick has a determined look in his eyes.

Jeff: Maverick, these days, Tribal Council is very much alive. Was what you initiated just now going to change anything in any way?

Maverick: What I was doing just now, Jeff, was reaffirming that what I believe should happen tonight...is going to happen. These days, on Survivor, you can’t be a passive player. You need to have these conversations and make sure you know where the vote is going and that you feel strongly about who is going home that night is the right person. I’m just doing my best to make sure that tonight’s vote is steered towards the right person, who needs to go home tonight to better my game.

Hazel nods slightly, biting her tongue. Markus is watching them both, and turns back as Blake finally pulls away from Keira, who looks slightly out of sorts.

Jeff: Alright, is everyone all settled down? You’re all clear on what you’re going to do tonight?

Hazel: Yes.

Blake: Yep.

Maverick: Hell yeah.

Markus nods solemnly. Erin puffs up her upper lip in agreement.

Jeff: Alright. With that, it is time to vote. Hazel, you’re up.

Hazel sweeps aside her hair as she gets to her feet. Erin’s eyes follow her as she takes her leave.

The camera cuts to Blake chewing on his lower lip, shaking his leg, then to Markus hunched forward, his hair falling over his eyes.

Hazel is shown arriving at the booth, and the camera fades away as she uncaps the pen.

One by one, the others go to vote. Keira is shown walking to the booth.

The camera cuts to an overhead view of Blake holding up his vote.

"mwali"

- The Family sends their regards.

He folds his vote up. The camera cuts to Erin swallowing, blinking, then to Markus staring at the floor with a melancholy expression.

Maverick is shown walking to the booth, then Erin is shown holding the pen, hesitating before putting the tip of it to her parchment.

The camera cuts to Hazel glancing nervously in the direction of the voting booth, then to Keira striking a thoughtful pose, staring straight ahead. At last, Markus is shown arriving at the booth and the camera fades away until he returns.

Jeff: I’ll go tally the votes.

He leaves.

Hazel sits upright in her seat, rubbing her cheek with one hand, and turns back to look at Blake. Blake nods at her, eyes twinkling.

The camera slowly zooms in on Erin solemnly lowering her hat to obscure her face.

Maverick glances to the side at Markus, who has an unreadable expression on his face.

Jeff returns.

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

Keira is pinching her lower lip with her thumb and forefinger, and shoots looks at the others out of the corner of her eye.

Erin swallows solemnly, looking to Markus out of the corner of her eye.

Markus is avoiding her gaze, staring at the floor.

Blake smirks when no one stands up.

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.

Maverick sighs heavily, planting his hand on his thigh. Keira turns back to look at the others.

Erin swallows again, looking worried and unhappy.

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

Hazel arches an eyebrow, chest heaving a little as she cocks her head to the side. Maverick nods solemnly.

Jeff: Erin. One vote Hazel, one vote Erin. (1-1)

The vote for Erin has a star drawn next to it.

Erin winces, swaying in her seat.

Blake’s eyes dart to her and then back to Jeff.

Jeff: Erin. Two votes Erin. (2-1)

The second vote also has a star on it.

Erin is sticking her tongue out between her teeth, anxiety written all over her face, her shoulders stiff and tense.

Markus has a serious look on his face as he looks away, twiddling his thumbs.

Jeff: ...Erin. That’s three votes Erin, one vote Hazel. (3-1)

This vote has no star.

Erin lowers her head, once again hiding her face beneath the brim of her hat.

Keira swallows, not taking her eyes off Jeff. Hazel turns around to look at Blake, who winks knowingly at her. Maverick adjusts in his seat, straightening up confidently.

Jeff: Second person voted out of Survivor: Champions and Contenders...Erin. That’s four, that’s enough. You need to bring me your torch. (Final Tally: 5-1)

Erin looks up now at the third starred vote, and nods, smiling.

Erin: Alright, guys.

Uncrossing her legs, she gets up, grabbing her bags.

Hazel breaks out into a sigh of relief, toying with her hair with one hand. Blake reaches out and squeezes her free hand comfortingly.

Markus turns in his seat to cast Erin an apologetic look. Maverick’s eyes are shining as he watches Erin take her torch to Jeff and put it down.

Jeff: Erin...the tribe has spoken. [snuffs torch]

Erin grins a little awkwardly, hand still holding her torch, as if unsure what to do.

Jeff: Time for you to go.

Erin turns back around.

Erin: It was fun while it lasted, guys. Go get ‘em.

She waves goodbye with both hands as the others wave back.

Hazel: Bye, Erin. Sorry…

Keira nods at her in farewell.

Markus smiles a little, still looking downcast. Blake smirks at Maverick, who shrugs.

Jeff: We are not even a week into the game, and you’ve already made the conscious choice to unanimously vote out one of the three returning Champions of the game. Only time will tell if making such a bold opening move was the right decision. But one thing’s clear. ...You guys are here to play. Grab your stuff, head on back to camp. Goodnight.

Final Words
Erin: Unfortunately, it looks like this time around, I wasn’t so lucky. [laughing, visibly disappointed] I won’t be taking home a second million dollars, but I consider myself incredibly blessed to have even gotten to go on this grand adventure a second time. I thought, given that my win in Cayman Islands was a while ago, I wouldn’t have been outed as a target as quickly as Markus, whose win is still very recent in everyone’s minds. Evidently, I was wrong to think that. While I didn’t go very far at all or even last a week this season, I’m not going to mope and let this defeat keep me down. I’m a previous winner, I was chosen to come back, and I have a loving family back home who will accept me regardless of how I did. That’ll help curb my disappointment a bit. I didn’t expose Markus’ idol to the others on my way out because he is the one I have the highest hopes for, and I really hope he makes good use of it to survive on that tribe. Considering where I’m sitting right now, he’s going to need it if they lose again.

Next Time on Survivor...

 * Romance blossoms…

Elmer is holding Kelli by the waist and the two are kissing in the water, late at night. Kelli giggles, wrapping her arms around Elmer’s neck as the two continue to smooch.


 * Tensions flare…

Lisa: Oh [censored]! Oops.

Mallorie: Did you just-

Eli: Yeah. Yeah, she just dumped the whole thing in.

Mallorie looks completely done with Lisa.

"vailheu"

- That’s our food, Lisa! What the hell?


 * And the game is shaken up, yet again.

Jeff: Wow. Clearly, another blindside, if I’ve ever seen one.