A Woman Brought About His Downfall

A Woman Will Be His Downfall is the sixth episode of Survivor: Cayman Islands.

Previously On Survivor...

 * The previously unbeaten Las Caimanes tribe went to tribal and chose to risk keeping power couple Brett and Erin in the game, voting out their most aggressive player in Natalia…

Jeff: Natalia, your tribe has spoken. [snuffs torch]


 * …leaving Yvonne on the outs of a core four alliance.

"lascaimanes"

- I need a tribe swap and I need it badly, or I’m screwed. If none of my original tribe is willing to work with me, I have to find new allies. I’m praying for a switch-up because it’s my saving grace and I’ve got to get out of this situation I find myself in.


 * A tribe swap shook up the game as the three tribes drew new buffs and became two new tribes: Las Tortugas and Los Lagartos.

"loslagartos"

- When I heard Jeff say those three magical words, I was so excited! It was like a breath of fresh air! I knew I was on the bottom of my old tribe after Natalia got voted off, so I needed this swap badly, and it came at the perfect opportunity.

"loslagartos"

- Yes! Thank [censored] for this swap. I needed this now more than ever. My old tribe sucked!I just need to adapt and make something good out of this second opportunity.


 * For players on the outs, like Yvonne and Mitzi, the tribe swap was a welcome addition.


 * For other players, it spelled disaster.

"lastortugas"

- I was not happy to be swapping. Us four on Las Tortugas, we were through a lot together. And this swap jeopardizes all of that. Now two of our number are on the other tribe and I worry about them. And we’ve got all these boisterous guys joining us from Las Caimanes and I’m not too sure how we’ll all gel together as a new tribe. It’s definitely unnerving.

"lastortugas"

- Starting out on a new tribe, I lose my main ally Erin to the other beach. I still have my guys, Callum and Peter. Unfortunately, it's evident that their behavior is getting on everyone's nerves - on Ingrid, on Oberon, on Elmer and on Mitch. Unless I want to lose them, I need to get my soldiers in order and get them to stop making an ass out of themselves or us three are going to be in trouble if we ever go to tribal.


 * On the new Las Tortugas tribe, Ingrid found herself the only woman in a tribe full of men.

"lastortugas"

- This tribe swap has left me as the only girl on a tribe full of men. And...wow. The misogyny I'm detecting from Callum and Peter is off the charts.


 * And Callum and Peter started to get on their new tribemates’ nerves.

"lastortugas"

- Not everyone is getting along and some of these people aren’t making a very good first impression on me.I cannot stand some of these guys. Callum and Peter especially get on my nerves.They have no respect for anyone but themselves. That arrogance, that egoism – it’s stifling.

"lastortugas"

- I can't stand either of them. Callum treats it all like one big joke. And Peter's just trash.


 * On Los Lagartos, Terrence was in trouble, as Mitzi and Aisha, formerly in the minority, went to work on securing a majority alliance of women to target him and send him out of the game as an act of revenge.

"loslagartos"

- Not only have I lost my main allies in Oberon and Ingrid, I'm stuck with Mitzi and Aisha, the two people who were very clearly on the bottom. It's obvious us three aren't sticking together for numbers and I know they'll gun for me. So this swap has really put me in a dangerous position.

"loslagartos"

- I have prayed and wished and hoped for a fresh start in this game. This tribe swap was exactly what me and Aisha needed to survive another 3 days. Terrence has got to go, because he’s Oberon and Ingrid’s loyal ally. I need to get together a group of four, and fast! Now, I have a potential all-females’ alliance in the works. It’s exciting to feel like I can play this game again with a new beginning. I would soooo love to see the look on Oberon’s face if our tribe comes into a reward challenge after tribal and he sees his buddy Terrence isn’t here anymore. I would just…cackle and die.


 * And Terrence sought new allies in Darnell and Yvonne, forming the Trinity Alliance with one member from each original tribe.

"loslagartos"

- I am on board with this new trio. And we are…the Trinity alliance. One person from each original tribe, banding together. I love it.


 * At the immunity challenge, Las Tortugas won, sending the already split Los Lagartos tribe to tribal council.


 * Facing tribal, Mitzi wanted to target Terrence but Erin shifted the target onto Yvonne, wanting the older woman out for voting against her in the previous tribal council and for being their weakest link in challenges.

Erin: Yvonne voted against me last tribal council. So, I want her gone. She is of no help in challenges. She’s the weakest one on our tribe. She has to go.

"loslagartos"

- It’s my own personal vendetta to send Yvonne out of this game after she voted against me last tribal. I believe I have the numbers to do it, so I’m going right for the jugular.


 * And the Trinity Alliance targeted the human firecracker, Mitzi.

"loslagartos"

- I always knew Mitzi had a couple screws loose. I have to walk on eggshells just trying to have a normal conversation with this chick. I know Terrence will be voting Mitzi, Darnell will be voting Mitzi, and so will I. All we need right now – that one crucial vote I need to secure to save myself – is Penny.


 * Facing tribal council, the Los Lagartos tribe was at a stalemate, leaving Penny smack dab in the middle as the crucial swing vote between both alliances…

"loslagartos"

- I truly believe I am the swing vote this round. I can go with the girls Mitzi, Aisha and Erin and take out Yvonne, or I can go with my old tribemate Darnell, Terrence and Yvonne and take out Mitzi. But I don't know what I want to do!


 * At tribal, Penny was conflicted, but eventually made the decision to betray Darnell and voted alongside Erin and the girls, sending Yvonne home…

Jeff: Yvonne, your tribe has spoken. [snuffs torch]


 * …breaking up the Trinity Alliance and putting Mitzi firmly in the majority.

Mitzi: Nice. [whisper] Stick with us. We’ve got your back.

Jeff: The two people who counted on the tribe swap to save them ended up on the chopping block. I'm very interested to see how your tribe dynamic will evolve moving forward. Grab your stuff and head back to camp. Goodnight.


 * 13 are left, who will be voted out…tonight?

Challenge
Reward Challenge: Kicking and Screaming (Cagayan)

One representative from each tribe will cling onto a pole for as long as they can, while two members from the opposing tribe attempt to pull them off the pole and drag them to their mat. First tribe to drag three members from the opposing team to their mat wins reward.

Reward: Picnic reward near a waterfall. Includes clue to hidden immunity idol at the feast.

Winner: Las Tortugas

Immunity Challenge: Basket Case (Worlds Apart)

One at a time, castaways will dive into the water and swim to a platform where they will find buoys attached to a rope. They will maneuver a buoy through a series of obstacles and swim to the next platform, then the next person in the tribe goes. Once a tribe has collected all five buoys, they will attempt to toss them into a basket. First person to score all five balls wins immunity.

Reward: Tribal Immunity.

Winner: Los Lagartos

Night 15
The night sky is free of stars. A dark cloud passes over the moon, as the camera pans down slowly to show the new Los Lagartos tribe, trudging back to camp in single file.

As the others set their torches down by the side of the shelter, Terrence is still astounded by the events of the evening.

"loslagartos"

- I just came back from my second tribal council…and it sucked. I lost an ally, and I think that – believe it or not – Mitzi is now running things on the tribe. She’s in the majority, she’s untouchable. It’s crazy how quickly and drastically things have changed around here. Couple o’ days ago, I was doing fine. I had the majority, I was with friends. Now, I’m in the minority and if Mitzi wants to, she can just take me out, no sweat. I’m in deep crap right now, and I’m literally going to have to fight to stay alive and survive Mitzi’s wrath because otherwise – it’s over. My game’s done.

Darnell tosses his bag onto the shelter, still looking pissed. He turns to confront Penny.

Darnell: So Penny, can I ask you something? When you were casting that vote for Yvonne, were you or were you not trying to lose the game?

Penny: Darnell, listen – I know you’re upset, but I-

Darnell: No, don’t give me excuses, Penny. I’m sick and tired of listening to your half-assed excuses. I’ve been with you for two weeks, I know what you’re like, and I’m telling you right now, I don’t want to hear it. The golden rule of Survivor is that flippers never win, and let me tell you, sister – you’re a flipper.

Penny: How am I a flipper? Listen, it’s an individual game and I’ve got to do what’s best for me. That’s the name of the game. I had a choice between two alliances and I chose the one that I believed would better my game. I’m sorry it sucks that you’re not a part of that plan-

Darnell: You’re a dumbass! Okay? You made a move that threatened our numbers! We’re supposed to stick together! I saved you! Okay? I saved you when you could’ve gone home so many times, and this is how you repay me?

He calls after her as Mitzi leads Penny away from Darnell.

Darnell: You’re a flipper, Penny. You are a flipper and a goat and everyone here can see that. If I make it onto the jury, you can forget about getting my vote because PSA: it’s not happening.

Mitzi: Hey, leave her alone! You had your little rant, now piss off. Sucks to be on the bottom now, huh? I know. Deal with it.

The four girls leave to head down to the beach alone, Aisha and Mitzi casting dirty looks back at Darnell, who is left fuming on his own, standing over the fire. Terrence looks uneasy.

Darnell: Gah. I can’t believe this, man. This blows.

Terrence: Yeah…I know.

"loslagartos"

- Darnell blew his lid after tribal. I mean, it’s understandable, he was upset that his alliance mate Yvonne went home and that Mitzi – of all people – ended up on top of that vote. Still, I’m thankful that he blew up, because he just made himself a target by doing so. When you’re on Survivor, you’ve got to keep your emotions in check. I’m upset about tribal too but I’m not losing my cool just yet. And maybe, just maybe, I can use this incident to throw Darnell under the bus if I have to. I don’t want to do it. Best case scenario is we win the next challenge and won’t have to go to tribal until the merge, where Darnell and I can return to relative safety with Oberon and Ingrid. But if we do lose and head back to tribal and I can’t turn the girls against each other – because they’re iron clad tight – then I know my only hope of survival will be to turn against Darnell. I don’t want to have to do it, but better him than me. And him blowing up at Penny like that makes my job a lot easier.

Penny is down on the beach crying. Mitzi and the other girls are busy whispering and trying to comfort her.

Erin: Just ignore him. He’s angry and being an ass.

Mitzi: Yeah, you know we have your back, like we said.

"loslagartos"

- [sniff] It was…r-really hard after tribal. D-Darnell was really upset [sniff] and he just railed into me. Like, I get it. He was angry I betrayed him, angry I went against his wishes. But I knew he and Yvonne and Terrence were getting all buddy-buddy. I saw a better place for me amongst the girls and so I swung with them. I don’t regret my decision. But it hurt to have him mad at me. [sniff] I don’t like it when people are angry with me, I’m the kind of person who tries to please everyone. [laughs] I guess signing up for this probably wasn’t the best plan then. Still…I love this game. I always wanted to come out here since watching it at home. I won’t let Darnell’s words and his anger get me down. The girls have been busy comforting me and if anything, I think that cemented our alliance even more.

Aisha: He’s a jackass. Just let it out.

Penny: [crying] What he said…about flippers not winning-

Mitzi: You’re not a flipper…per se.

Erin: If he thinks you’re a flipper and refuses to vote for you as a jury member, then let’s just make sure he doesn’t make the jury.

Mitzi and Aisha share a worried look at Erin’s words.

"loslagartos"

- Tribal was a success. Yvonne went home, and Erin and Penny have both proven their loyalty to me. I’m in charge of an army right now – and army of girls. And I am running this tribe. But as always, when there are people in the majority, there are people in the minority. And the people in the minority right now are Darnell and Terrence. Terrence, I’d like to get rid of first. Darnell, we planned on keeping as our spare vote, because we figured Terrence would immediately turn on us and run back to his buddies Oberon and Ingrid as soon as we hit the merge. But once we get back to camp, Darnell comes along and gets to work on destroying his own game by blowing up at Penny. My goodness. He is so stupid. Seriously? Who goes and tells someone that they’re not voting for them IF they make it onto the jury WHILE you’re still in the minority in the pre-jury phase? Are you asking to be a pre-merge boot? And I thought I was the only one who enjoyed blowing things up! It’s absolutely crazy. It’s mind-boggling and I’m flummoxed. His little rant served no purpose other than to firmly convince Penny that she had to get rid of him or risk putting a Bitter Betty on the jury, and that takes the crosshairs off of Terrence. I still want Terrence gone. I want revenge on all three of them – Ingrid, Oberon and Terrence – for the crap me and Aisha had to go through on our first tribe. But I know Penny’s going to want to cut Darnell off completely now after his little rant. And I believe Erin will aid her in that. Which puts me in yet another dilemma. I’ve already helped Erin do her dirty work by taking out Yvonne, but it looks like I may have to help Penny do her dirty work too by taking out Darnell. When is someone going to do my dirty work?

Day 16
Jeff: Come on in guys!

Las Tortugas arrives first, the pink tribe flag once again raised high above everyone’s heads.

Jeff: Las Tortugas, getting your first look at the new Los Lagartos tribe. Yvonne, voted out at last night’s tribal council.

Los Lagartos trudges in. Penny and Darnell both make eye contact with Elmer; Darnell shakes his head. Brett nods at Erin. Callum is grinning.

Jeff: Alright, ready to get to today’s reward challenge? Today, one member from each tribe will cling onto a pole for as long as they can, while two members from the opposite tribe try to pull you off your pole and drag you to their mat. First tribe to drag three members from the opposing team to their mat wins reward. Wanna know what you’re playing for? It’s been more than two weeks out here without having a proper feast. So, today’s reward is a memorable trip that will rejuvenate your stomachs and your senses. The winning tribe will be taken to a nearby waterfall where you will enjoy a picnic with all the works. There’ll be great food, refreshing beverages – stuff you haven’t enjoyed in two weeks – and a picturesque scenery to boot. It’s a good way for your tribe to bond and to gather strength for the upcoming immunity challenge. Las Tortugas – you’ve got one extra member.

Mitch raises his hand.

Mitch: I’m sitting out.

Jeff: Alright, easy. Let’s do it.

First up clinging to the pole for Los Lagartos is Mitzi, looking determined and focused. Brett is up for Las Tortugas.

Jeff: Survivors ready? Go!

The two pairs charge out. Darnell and Aisha get to work trying to pull Brett off his pole, whereas Peter and Ingrid move to attack Mitzi. The muscles in Brett’s massive biceps ripple as Darnell tries to pry his arms off; his grip only tightening like a vice. Aisha clings onto Brett’s back, trying to use her small body weight to topple him over. Ingrid savagely grabs Mitzi’s legs, grinning up at her old ally-turned-nemesis. The scowl that Mitzi shoots her turns rapidly into a wide-mouthed gasp of surprise as Peter grunts and wrenches Mitzi up off her ass and literally drags her through the sand, huffing and puffing as he pulls her to his mat.

Callum: Alright! Yeah! Go Pete!

Mitzi: Mmf! What the [censored]!

Ingrid is left in the dust as Peter singlehandedly drags Mitzi across the floor, getting sand all over her body, face, hair and in her mouth. She splutters madly, thrashing and convulsing, kicking and thrashing in a mad attempt to get out of Peter’s vice-like hold on her legs.

Aisha: You got to be kidding me.

Aisha pulls and tugs on Brett’s back like a child tugging at an adult, but to no avail as the other man is rock solid. Darnell changes tactic and works on his legs and manages to pry Brett’s left leg off his pole. Brett grunts, face scrunching up out of exertion, but it turns to relief when Peter viciously dumps Mitzi’s prone body by his tribe mat, triumphantly scoring the first point for Las Tortugas.

Jeff: Peter literally drags Mitzi back to his mat, with no help at all from Ingrid! Las Tortugas leads 1 – 0!

Next match-up has Erin and Ingrid clinging onto their poles, with Elmer and Brett going up against Penny and Terrence.

Jeff: Go!

The two pairs race out. Brett reaches Erin first.

Brett: Sorry, Erin.

He lunges under her arms with a slight hint of apology, trying to tug her off her perch. While Brett pulls a shrieking Erin backwards, Elmer works on unraveling her legs, which she has wrapped securely around the pole. She kicks out and sprays sand right into his eyes, as Elmer curses.

Penny employs Aisha’s tactic. The dainty girl latches onto the older woman’s back and attempts to drag her down off the pole by the shoulders. The skinnier Terrence does as Elmer is, working on pushing her legs off.

Terrence: Sorry Ingrid.

Ingrid: Oh, no, it’s fine Terrence.

She grunts, trying to lash out at him with her feet but Terrence lifts them over his head, using his brute force to pry her legs apart.

Jeff: This is a close match! Who will come out on top?

Terrence successfully pushes Ingrid’s legs off the pole. Penny is inching backward in the sand, grunting with the effort of slowly maneuvering Ingrid away from the pole. Ingrid thrashes weakly, reaching out a hand to try and grab back onto the pole.

Brett now has his arms wrapped around Erin’s midsection and is carrying her back. Elmer has his arms around her legs and is trying to stop her from kicking around. Terrence now loops his arms under Ingrid’s legs as he and Penny hoist her up and run back to their mat, with her held up high like a trophy.

Jeff: Both teams heading back to their mats!

Erin’s struggling provides Terrence and Penny with just enough time to slump down at the brown mat with Ingrid, who looks exhausted, hair blowing in her mouth and eyes, looking not unlike a madwoman.

Jeff: Los Lagartos scores one point! We are tied 1 – 1! Next matchup!

Next up is Elmer and Darnell clinging onto the posts, with Terrence and Penny heading out again against Ingrid and Oberon.

Jeff: Survivors ready? Go!

Elmer locks himself in around the pole, his whole body ripped and tense. Terrence rushes over and grabs Elmer’s bulging arms, panting as he tries to move them but the latter is rigid and rock solid. Penny kneels down and encircles Elmer’s neck, almost choking him as she tugs futilely at him in a vain effort to pull him off.

Oberon, who matches Darnell in size and build, tackles the poker player from behind, trying to get under his arms. Ingrid employs a more curious strategy. On her knees, she reaches out and tickles Darnell’s foot, causing the latter to jerk backward, taken by surprise, as Oberon grunts, taking advantage of Darnell’s momentary lapse of concentration in grabbing him around the torso, fighting to pull him over to the mat.

Jeff: Ingrid practically tickles Darnell off his post! This is going to be a hard fought scuffle!

The tussle goes on for a while. Terrence and Penny are hardly making much progress on Elmer, whereas Oberon and Darnell are scuffling in the sand like a couple of pro wrestlers; Darnell trying to shake Oberon off and latch back onto the post, Oberon trying to get his hands around Darnell’s waist and shimmy him over to the mat. The effort and exertion required to drag the well-built Darnell to the pink mat shows on Oberon’s sweaty red face.

Eventually, Darnell starts to lose steam. So does Oberon. Ingrid grabs Darnell’s arm and pulls, to no avail. Darnell spits some sand out of his mouth, breathing heavily, sweat trickling down his brow.

Elmer is still tightly wrapped around the pole, his muscular arms not budging. Terrence is considerably skinnier and has little to no effect on pushing Elmer. Penny has given up, sitting next to Elmer, watching Terrence.

Jeff: This is taking a toll on everyone. Oberon, almost there with Darnell.

Darnell groans, as Oberon pushes him slowly towards the pink mat. Terrence weakly shoves Elmer’s statuesque form, heaving and retching. With a last push of effort, Oberon dumps Darnell by the pink mat, both large men shining with sweat, completely drained.

Jeff: After an intense battle, Oberon scores the second point for Las Tortugas! Las Tortugas leads 2 – 1, they only need one more to win.

The next match up has Aisha wrapped around the pole like a monkey, clasped and wound tightly around it. Callum is clinging on for Las Tortugas, grinning already at the prospect of the challenge.

The two pairs heading out are Elmer and Peter for Las Tortugas, Mitzi and Erin for Los Lagartos. They set off, and Elmer works on Aisha’s back as Peter clings onto her legs. They work on pulling her off, as Aisha clings onto the post, her arms and legs locked around it as best she can. But she is clearly not strong enough and it is only a matter of time.

Callum smiles and sniggers as Mitzi and Erin try to pry his arms off. Mitzi manages to pull apart his feet, but Callum is still deadlocked around the pole. Peter now has Aisha’s legs free and Elmer drags her on her back towards the pink mat.

Jeff: Elmer has Aisha free and is dragging her! Can he do it?

Elmer drops Aisha by the mat as if she is very light – which, she is.

Jeff: That’ll do it. Las Tortugas, wins reward!

Mitzi scoffs as she and Erin trudge back to their losing team, darkly watching Callum get to his feet, whoop and cheer as he joins his victorious tribe.

Mitzi: Shocker.

Jeff: Las Tortugas, again with another win. A helicopter is coming to pick you up. Head out and enjoy your reward.

Callum: Good looking out, Jeff!

Elmer: Thanks Jeff.

Las Tortugas grabs their stuff and prepares to leave for the helicopter, which has touched down further away from the group. Elmer nods at Penny and Darnell as he leaves with the others. She gives him a small wave back. Darnell looks displeased. Mitzi catches the action out of the corner of her eye and gives Elmer a suspicious glare.

Jeff: Los Lagartos, unfortunately for you, you’ve lost again. Got nothing for you, head back to camp, I’ll see you at the next challenge.

The helicopter rises up into the air. One cool transition shot later, it is shown hovering over a nearby waterfall, where it deposits the members of the victorious Las Tortugas tribe at the base by the rocks. A picnic feast is laid out on a mat by the shallow water; a spread of delicacies like muffins, cookies, pies and other sweet treats and foodstuffs. Callum whoops as the group gathers around the food in a chorus of awed ‘ooh’s and ‘ahh’s.

"lastortugas"

- When we got to the waterfalls, the food was splendid, the scenery was right out of a postcard - it looked amazing.

Mitch pops open a bottle of champagne and pours everyone a glass. Callum is excited at the prospect of getting wasted, and is cackling with laughter as he pops a strawberry into his mouth.

Callum: Oh man, I can’t wait to get dead drunk. I’m so sick of coconut water.

Peter is stuffing his face full of sandwiches, and Brett passes a plate around as Oberon and Ingrid take their shares as well.

Brett picks up his flute of champagne in a toast.

Brett: To our new tribe!

Everyone follows suit and joins in the toast. Elmer does as well and while everyone tips their heads back to drink, his eyes wander downwards, roving over the picnic mat. The camera zooms in and focuses on what appears to be a small roll of paper sticking out from in between a pair of napkins.

{{quote|lastortugas|So today at the reward, you know, it was fun. It’s not every day we get to go on such a cool reward; we got to fill our bellies, we got to bond more as a tribe, Callum got dead drunk and extra rowdier than usual – but the main thing about that reward for me was when I noticed this little scroll; this tiny roll of parchment; sticking out from between a pair of napkins. I was sitting between Oberon and Ingrid and that’s when I saw it. The clue to the hidden immunity idol, right under everyone’s noses.

Elmer stays by the table, washing down remnants of the meal with another sip of alcohol. Callum and Peter have both cannonball-ed into the pool of water by the falls, laughing and spitting everywhere. Oberon is stretched out languidly by the shoreline, dipping his feet in, enjoying the breeze. Elmer’s eyes flicker warily amongst the others, watching them attentively.

{{quote|lastortugas|I wasn’t even expecting to find the clue to the idol. But I knew that the best place to hide one would be at a reward. I knew that it was possible one of the others might also suspect it. I think I saw Peter snooping around earlier, he might’ve smelled something fishy too. So I knew I had to snatch it for myself fast before they could get it.|Elmer}}

Ingrid gets into the water joining the others, the only bikini-clad woman amongst the men. Callum is dunking Peter under the water and laughing. Elmer eyes Brett and the other guys dodgily, making sure no one is looking his way before shooting his hand eye out, stealthily and swiftly snatching the idol clue in between the napkins and stuffing it in his pocket.

{{quote|lastortugas|It was the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve done this whole game. But I knew I had to retrieve it. That clue was mine. And so I snatched it as quickly as I could and subtly hid in my pocket. No one saw me do it, as far as I know. That was incredibly stressful. But…now I have the clue to an idol! [takes out idol clue and reads it] First chance I get, I’m gonna go looking for this thing, because if I get it in my hands, that’s a lot of power for me and my game.|Elmer}}

Meanwhile…

Returning to Los Lagartos, the defeated tribe is in low spirits at their third consecutive loss. Darnell is still fuming from the events of the night before and slumps down in the shelter, hands behind his head, dozing.

Penny casts one look at him and looks irked.

Penny: I’ll be at the lake if y’all need me.

Erin: You want me to wash out your hair, Penny?

Penny: No, it’s all good.

Penny leaves. Terrence sits next to Darnell in his hoodie, picking at his teeth absentmindedly, watching Penny go.

Terrence: You think I should go talk to her?

Darnell: [eyes still closed] Why?

Terrence: To see if we can work her over. We need to do something or we’re screwed.

Darnell: Suit yourself.

Terrence: I’m not going down without a fight.

Darnell: Penny’s still wounded after last night. I know the girl well by now. There’s no way she’s turning on the other girls.

Terrence: Better her than Aisha, Mitzi or Erin, right? I’m going to go talk to her.

Darnell: Mmhmm.

Terrence leaves to follow Penny. Darnell squints open one eye and watches him leave.

Mitzi walks over, returning from washing the cooking pot.

Darnell beckons to her.

Darnell: Might wanna go check on your girl, Penny.

Mitzi casts him a distasteful glance, suspicious.

Mitzi: Why?

Darnell leans his head back again, closing his eyes with a sigh and hitching his legs up against his haversack.

Darnell: Casanova’s going to try and pull her away from you.

Mitzi eyes him with distrust. Eventually, she decides to head off into the forest.

At the lake, Penny is sitting by herself, sniffling quietly, dangling her feet idly in the water. Her face streaked with tears, eyes red and bloodshot, she leans back on her hands, staring up at the leaves over her head, lost in her own thoughts.

{{quote|loslagartos|Penny went off to the lake to cry again. She was upset and in a bad mood after our recent loss, and the bashing Darnell put her through the other night didn’t help matters. I didn’t want her to feel too bad, so I followed her out there to try and comfort her.|Terrence}}

Terrence steps out into the clearing, nodding at Penny.

Terrence: Penny, you alright?

Penny: [sniffs] Yeah, I’m fine. [sniff] I just…I just needed a moment to myself…away from camp.

Terrence takes a seat next to Penny, looking a little awkward as she cries beside him.

{{quote|loslagartos|Of course, yes, part of it is because I feel bad for her. But it was the smart thing to do strategy-wise because I know I’m on the bottom with Darnell. If I want to stay in the game, I need to bring people over to my side. If someone in the majority alliance is feeling hurt and vulnerable, especially someone as emotionally fragile as Penny, it’s an opening for me, an opportunity for me to sneak in and try to work on her.|Terrence}}

Terrence: Still upset about last night?

Penny pauses.

Penny: I know I shouldn’t let it get to me…but I can’t help it.

Terrence: Yeah, no, if he hurt you, then you should let it out. No use keeping your emotions bottled up inside you. You’ll feel better after a good cry.

Penny: He was really harsh with me. He didn’t have to be that harsh, did he?

Terrence: You’re right, I agree that I felt he took things too far. Some people just take things really serious, I guess. Don’t worry about Darnell…he’s just mad, that’s all. Don’t let his words get you down. Just tell yourself – it’s just a game and the things he says can’t hurt you if you don’t let him get to you.

Penny: I know.

Terrence: He’s upset because he’s on the bottom and he took his anger out on you. I’m upset too, but…I’m not going to just rail into someone.

A short distance away from the lake, Mitzi peeks her head out from between a bunch of leaves, spying on the pair, hidden away in the underbrush.

Terrence: But, you know, it’s just a game. And for Darnell to have ripped into you like that was uncalled for.

Penny: Thanks for understanding, Terrence. It just hurt so much more because me and Darnell were on the same tribe together and I feel like I did him wrong. Like, I hurt him more than he hurt me, with my move the other night. [sniffs]

Terrence: Would it help if you want a shoulder to cry on? I can sit here and wait.

Penny: [sniff] Ah…thanks.

Penny leans her head on Terrence’s shoulder, still sniffling to herself, her face blotched with red and grimy tear marks. Terrence sits awkwardly, looking out at the surface of the lake as Penny clings to him, shivering.

Mitzi’s eyes narrow from where she lies, hiding in the bushes, watching from the shadows where she lurks.

{{quote|loslagartos|[wags finger at camera] I see what you’re doing, Terrence. Don’t think I don’t see what you’re doing…because I see what you’re doing! Right now, Penny is part of my alliance. And when there are people on the bottom, they have no choice but to exploit whatever cracks there are in an alliance to try and stay alive a few more days. And maybe I underestimated Terrence. I always thought he was just Oberon’s pet puppy and loyal soldier but he clearly has enough social and strategic game in him to be doing what he’s doing and know why he’s doing it. I’m not comfortable seeing Terrence and Penny getting that intimate with one another. Penny is my extra vote right now, I need her on my side to help me get further in the game. If Terrence is going to reel her away from me, then I’m going to need to step in and put a stop to that. I wanted Terrence gone over Yvonne and now I want him gone more than ever, but Penny – she wants Darnell out.|Mitzi}}

Mitzi retreats, leaving the pair on their own by the lake. Terrence grimaces, letting his legs float in the water, eyes glazed over and focused on something in the distance.

{{quote|loslagartos|I’ve gotten to know Penny a little over the three or four days we’ve spent together on this new tribe. I know a little about what she went through back on Las Tortugas. She went through her little redemption arc or whatever, winning that challenge for her tribe when the chick with the tattoos said she was their weakest link. She formed close relationships with a guy on her old tribe and cried when she had to leave him. The game is taking an emotional toll on her and it’s to my advantage. The difference between me and Darnell is that he blew up at her. I’m offering her consolation, a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on. If she starts to feel like we have a connection, that’s a relationship I can rely on. This is where I need my social game to come into play to get me out of this pickle, because I know Mitzi is dead set on having me go. But if Erin could shift the target off me onto Yvonne, Penny can potentially do the same and shift Mitzi’s target off me and onto Darnell. She’s stubborn, yes, but would she risk going against Penny’s wishes when she needs the women by her side at this point? That’s what I’m going to have to take into consideration.|Terrence}}

Mitzi returns to the shelter. Erin is off in the ocean, helping to wash Aisha’s long hair and scrubbing out any knots and dead leaves. Darnell is where Mitzi left him, still chilling in the shade.

She walks over and slumps down next to him.

Mitzi: Terrence and Penny are getting close.

Darnell lets out a sharp laugh dripping with sarcasm, lazily opening one eye to regard Mitzi.

Darnell: I know. That kid has got game. If you don’t watch out for him, he’s going to pull Penny away from you.

Mitzi: Why would you want to sabotage him? Why would you tell me about that?

Darnell: Cos I know that if he doesn’t go home, I will. And I know you want him gone because of your personal vendetta against your old tribemates. I’m down for that. If you want Terrence gone, I’m on board for making it happen, if you can keep me safe because I just want to make the merge.

Mitzi considers this.

Mitzi: The thing is, you really upset Penny last night. You don’t think before you speak, do you? You showed absolutely no tact the other night. If you wanted me to work with you and try to save you over Terrence, you just made my job and yours ten times harder with your little outburst. Because until you opened your mouth in a fit of rage, Terrence was set to go home at our next tribal. You screwed yourself.

Darnell: Well, I’m begging you. We can make a deal.

He opens both eyes now.

Darnell: I am willing to vote for Terrence. Okay? I just want to make the merge to not let down my folks at home.

{{quote|loslagartos|The story about my parents? Total bull. I’m an orphan. But I have to give Mitzi some cock-and-bull story to try and play on her emotions and maybe she’ll be more motivated to try and get me to the merge. It’s all I’ve got, and I’ve got a damn good poker face. I’ll lie my ass off if it gets me onto that merged tribe.|Darnell}}

Darnell speaks in a more conspiratorial voice.

Darnell: Listen, if you keep Terrence over me, he’s just going to reunite with his allies on the other side.

Mitzi: Oberon and Ingrid.

Darnell: Yes, them. I know about the story, that you had beef with them, that they treated you like crap before, and you want revenge. Terrence is here and ripe for the picking. You let him get to that merge, you miss out on that chance, and he will blend into the background and other, bigger threats will take centre stage, and it’ll be that much harder for you to take him out.

Mitzi: What about you? You don’t have friends on the other side as well?

Darnell: Oh, please. It was never anything serious. To be honest, I bet they were going to blindside me at our next tribal.

Mitzi shoots him a smile that doesn’t quite meet her eyes, picking at a scab on her leg.

Mitzi: That’s not the version of the story Penny told me and the girls. She said you were in a solid position among the men, and that she would’ve gone home next.

Darnell: Oh, please, again. Penny was all over Elmer. The two of them are totally having a fling.

This visibly concerns Mitzi.

Darnell: Let me guess; when you and Erin asked, she told you it was nothing serious and nothing major. I was with Elmer and Penny for two weeks. The two of them were in love. They were the power couple of the tribe. I’m willing to bet that had we gone to tribal, Elmer would have decided to keep Penny and tried to blindside either me or Mitch. And I think he would’ve decided I’d be a bigger threat than Mitch. So I would have gone home.

Mitzi: This is all your speculation. Point is, there are still people left in the game for you to reunite with.

Darnell: The same goes for Terrence. And there are more Los Lagartos left in the game than there are Las Tortugas. We’re a dying breed. You guys are thriving. You really want one of the three people who isolated and alienated you from the tribe enjoying that merge feast with his friends?

Mitzi: [smiles deviously] How long did you rehearse your pitch?

Darnell: All of last night. Point is, Terrence will be a much bigger threat for you girls if you keep him. I know Penny is pissed at me, but you are still the master of your own game. You control this alliance, Mitzi. If you say ‘jump’, they jump. If you say ‘squat’, they squat. If you say ‘vote Terrence’, they will vote Terrence. You want revenge? You’ve got to take it. You want to deal the chumps who gave you such a hard time a blow? This is your opportunity. Don’t waste it on me, when I’ve done nothing to offend you.

Mitzi sighs.

Mitzi: I wish you’d just kept your mouth shut last night. You know how hard it’s going to be to try and turn Penny against Terrence instead? I just caught the two of them snuggling by the lake! It’s not going to be easy to convince her to vote against him and not you after how badly you chewed her out.

Darnell scoffs.

Darnell: Snuggling, huh? That girl needs to decide which guy she wants to settle down with. She’s an emotional wreck.

Mitzi: Well, I don’t disagree with you.

{{quote|loslagartos|Penny is…gah. I don’t even know what to say. She’s bawling over leaving her man candy Elmer and then the next thing you know she’s all over Terrence like he’s the new best thing since sliced bread. She’s such a flirt. Penny thinks she’s getting every man in the game in her pocket. She’s already working her magic on Terrence. It’s like Elmer never even existed. And I think that’s a pathetic way to play. I never held much respect for her in the first place but I’ve lost even more for her now.|Darnell}}

Mitzi sighs.

Darnell: Do we have a deal? Promise me you’ll try to get your alliance to take Terrence out, and not me?

She looks at his outstretched hand.

Darnell: Deal?

Mitzi nods, and takes his hand.

Mitzi: Deal.

The Las Tortugas tribe lumbers back into camp, all looking happy and satisfied, with full bellies and a fun experience. Callum is red in the face, and Peter’s hair is a mess.

Brett: Well, that was pretty awesome.

Mitch: Yeah. Reward trips are quite fun.

Ingrid: Phew, I’m beat.

The sun is slowly setting, turning the sky a vibrant, fiery shade of orangey-red. Ingrid stares out at the oncoming night, the light casting shadows across her features.

Brett: I’ll go get us some more firewood.

Peter is stumbling over, sinking into a deck chair, looking drop dead exhausted. He holds out an empty bottle, groggily motioning in Callum’s direction.

Peter: Hey…go get water.

Callum: Get it yourself, bruh, why do I gotta do it for you-

Peter: Just help pour me a bottle and shut up, would ya?

Oberon leaves to do the dishes by the shore, leaving Ingrid, Elmer and Mitch standing around the shelter.

Callum grabs the large canister of water in which water from the well is stored. Staggering over, still drunk, he laughs as he holds the heavy green canister up high, struggling to pour it through the tiny hole into the empty bottle that Peter has outstretched.

Elmer: Hey, maybe I should help with th-

Without warning, the large canister of water slips right out of Callum’s hands. It knocks into Peter’s arm, sending the bottle flying out of his hand and shattering against the side of the shelter, causing Ingrid to jump up with a panicked shriek. The canister slumps on its side in the sand, water spilling out an alarming rate, dousing the already simmering firepit.

Mitch: Hey!

Mitch and Elmer rush to put the canister back upright. Instead of being alarmed or concerned, Callum and Peter are in a fit of laughs, the latter slumped weakly in his chair.

Callum: Whoops. Ah [censored].

Elmer: Did we lose a lot of water?

Mitch: Half the can just went all over the fire.

Smoke rises up over the now extinguished fire, dramatically washing right over where Elmer and Mitch are crouching in the sand. Mitch gets to his feet, giving Callum a dirty look.

Mitch: Callum, you should’ve been more careful.

Callum groans, taking a seat in the shelter, giving Mitch a questioning look through bleary eyes.

Callum: Ah, come on, it’s not that bad. We can always get more water.

Elmer lets out an exasperated ‘pfft!’.

Elmer: You just doused our fire!

Callum: It was an accident!

He waves the matter off airily.

Callum: You guys gotta lighten up, seriously!

Brett returns, a load of firewood under his arm, in time to see Callum let loose.

Callum: Jeez, you two guys are such a bunch of tools. Honestly, look at yourselves. Why are y’all being so moody all the damn time? I didn’t do it on purpose, no one got hurt, what’s the big deal? Take a chill pill, for [censored] sakes.

Elmer: Ingrid, are you okay?

Ingrid gingerly touches her thigh, where a ricocheting shard of glass has pierced her skin, drawing a small amount of blood.

Ingrid: I got hurt.

Elmer: Here, I’ll go get the wound clean.

Elmer leads Ingrid away. Mitch folds his arms, looking stern.

Mitch: The problem is, you should have let one of us handle it. You and Peter got too drunk on that reward. You could have really hurt someone-

Callum: Injuries happen all the time on Survivor. I get cuts and scrapes and bruises every damn day working around camp, what are you on about? Seriously, nothing about that was permanent. Scars heal, water can be fetched again, and fires can be restarted. Picky, picky, fussy, fussy – you’re as strict as Natalia was. Big effin’ deal. You want me to start another fire? I’ll do it right now!

Mitch waves him off, storming away.

Mitch: Do whatever you want, Callum.

He turns to leave.

{{quote|lastortugas|My patience is starting to wear thin as of now. Callum is really starting to annoy me. It’s just his attitude – he’s all about kicking back and making jokes and playing the role of the funny guy, but I see no humor in anything he does. It’s just immature and juvenile, and he and Peter ham it up like it’s all fun and games. Callum doesn’t have a single responsible bone in his body. He’s irresponsible and a vagrant.|Mitch}}

Callum watches him go with his trademark cocky grin back on his face, shaking his head.

Callum: What a nuisance. He and Natalia must be related.

Peter laughs.

Brett, on the other hand, dumps the remaining firewood by the pit, as Callum gets to work on starting a new fire. He looks concerned.

{{quote|lastortugas|When we came back from camp, everyone was in high spirits, we were all laughing, we had full bellies, it was great. I was glad my buddies Callum and Peter were having a good time. But after another episode of Callum’s shenanigans, I look at everyone’s faces and I’m like ‘oh no’. I can see them getting annoyed, I can see Ingrid getting irritated, Elmer getting frustrated, and like, I know he’s pissing them off. And it’s like, no! Callum, we talked about this! You have to tone your behavior down, or we’re screwed! So now he’s probably ticked them off again. And I’m going to have to do damage control for all three of us.|Brett}}

Day 17
Jeff: Come on in guys!

The castaways are transported on boats to two floating platforms out in the sea – one pink, one brown. Jeff stands on his own platform, watching them arrive, hands on his hips and smiling.

Jeff: Alright, you guys ready to get to today’s challenge? One at a time, you will dive into the water and swim to a platform where you will find buoys attached to a rope. You will maneuver a buoy through a series of obstacles and swim to the next platform, then the next person in the tribe goes. Once a tribe has collected all five buoys, the remaining tribe members will attempt to toss them into a basket. First tribe to score all five balls wins immunity.

Darnell looks out at the challenge, concerned.

"loslagartos"

- I know that if we don’t win this challenge, there’s a 50-50 chance that I’m going home, no matter how many deals I make with Mitzi. So I’ve got to give this challenge my all, or I could end up going home. And that wouldn't sit well with me at all.

Jeff: Las Tortugas, you’ve got one extra member, who’re you sitting out? Mitch, you have to compete.

Peter points to Ingrid.

Peter: Ingrid will sit out.

Jeff: Alright. We’ll get started.

The tribes get ready.

Jeff: Okay! Survivors ready? Go!

Brett is first in the water for Las Tortugas; Erin for Los Lagartos.

Jeff: It is two original Las Caimanes first in the water, racing towards the buoys! The new Las Tortugas has not lost a challenge yet with their considerable advantage in strength. Will that change today, and will the underdog Los Lagartos finally score their first victory as a new tribe?

Brett reaches the buoys first and is swiftly untangling one through a series of ropes. Erin catches up and is a few seconds behind him, panting, dripping wet.

Jeff: Brett has his buoy free! Erin still behind him…and she’s got it too!

Brett makes it to the opposite platform.

Jeff: Go Las Tortugas!

Callum is next in the water.

Erin reaches the end. Now Mitzi is in the water, thrashing over to the ropes.

Darnell watches her progress, casting a sideways glance over at the other tribe.

Jeff: Callum has his buoy free pretty quickly! Mitzi, taking a little bit more time…and she’s got it too! We’re still relatively even!

Callum makes it to the end and now Mitch is swimming out. Mitzi reaches the end as well and now Penny dives in.

Jeff: Mitch and Penny…both slowing down. You’ve spent more than two weeks out here with limited food, unsatisfactory living conditions and it is undoubtedly wearing you down. How far will you push yourself to ensure you stay safe another three days?

Mitch and Penny both get their buoys free within a fraction of a second of each other, both looking tired and beat already.

Callum: Come on, pops! Let’s go!

Mitch glares at him as he wades over, panting.

Peter cups his hands over his mouth from the other platform, yelling out encouragement – or at the very least, what Peter would count as encouragement.

Peter: Let’s go, Mitch! You don’t want to be beat by a girl!

Ingrid’s eyes flick to him for a second, looking a little miffed.

Jeff: Mitch has reached the end! Go Las Tortugas!

Now Peter has dived in and is swimming out. Penny reaches her platform and Aisha is now in the water as well.

Peter manages to put considerable distance between him and the much slower, physically weaker Aisha. He races out, getting his buoy free even before Aisha has reached her ropes.

Jeff: Peter is here! Go Las Tortugas!

Oberon is now in the water, leaving Elmer on his own. Ingrid watches from the sidelines, white with worry, shivering in the breeze.

Aisha is taking a long time untangling her own buoy, but finally gets it free right as Oberon reaches his own ropes. She slowly wades over to the other platform.

Jeff: Aisha’s here! Go Los Lagartos!

Terrence takes a deep breath and dives in smoothly, leaving Elmer and Darnell now as the only two left on their respective platforms. Seeing no one playing them any mind, Darnell signals Elmer frantically. Elmer sees him out of the corner of his eye and looks over, confused.

Elmer: What?

Darnell: Bro, Penny flipped.

Elmer: What?!

Darnell: I’m telling you, I’m in deep trouble. I’ll be the next to go. You have to help me.

Elmer: What are you talking about? H-how do you expect me to help you?

Darnell: Throw the challenge. Please. If you don’t, my ass is out of this game. Penny turned on us. She’s going to vote me out next, I know it. Come on, man, you’re my last chance of staying in this game.

Elmer: Penny flipped?

Darnell: Yes, bro! She flipped! Listen, we don’t have a lot of time.

Jeff: Oberon has his buoy free! Terrence, rushing to make up for lost time!

Oberon moves past his old friend and ally, swimming over to the opposite platform with large strokes.

Darnell: You’re solid on your tribe, right? You have nothing to lose going to tribal, but if you win this and I go to tribal, I’m a goner. Elmer, please.

Jeff: Oberon has reached the end! Go Elmer!

Darnell: Think about it.

Elmer nods, looking shaken.

Elmer: Yeah.

He dives in and Darnell watches on, forlorn.

Jeff: Terrence has his buoy free! Elmer, the last member of Las Tortugas, now swimming to his platform.

Terrence speeds over to the other side and Darnell jumps into the water, rushing to catch up to the other tribe.

Jeff: All five buoys have been released! The tribe just needs Elmer to make it over so he can start shooting! Darnell, gaining on Elmer!

Elmer makes it to other platform, where Brett and Oberon toss him some balls. He gets in position, eyes focused on the basket floating out in the water.

Jeff: You need to score five in order to win, or you will see me at tribal. And that is something no one wants!

Oberon: You got this, E, let’s go.

Elmer takes aim and shoots. The first ball nicks the edge of the hoop and bounces off, back into the water.

Darnell reaches the final platform. Clambering up, unsteady on his feet, he grabs a ball Terrence tosses him and takes aim.

Jeff: Both tribes are dead even right now! Los Lagartos looking to secure their first victory! Las Tortugas has yet to come to tribal as a new tribe.

Elmer shoots again…and misses. Peter curses, looking at the other tribe.

Darnell shoots…the ball sails through the air…and lands squarely in the basket.

Mitzi: Yes!

Jeff: Darnell scores! It’s 1 – 0!

Elmer shoots, and lands his first ball. His eyes flicker back and forth, concentrating hard.

Jeff: 1 – 1! We are tied.

Darnell scores his second ball on his next try, looking determined to win this challenge, his face a mask of intensity.

Mitzi: Nice!

Erin: Killin’ it.

Jeff: Los Lagartos is in the lead! Who would’ve thought?

Darnell: [under his breath] I’m not going back to tribal.

Penny squints at him out of the corner of her vision.

Elmer takes aim again and jumps up. The ball lands in the basket…and bounces up and right out again. Callum just about loses his mind with the tease, throwing his hands up in the air and groaning. Brett punches the air in irritation. Ingrid fidgets nervously. Oberon runs his hands through his hair.

Darnell throws again and misses, eliciting a couple gasps and moans from the gaggle of girls and Terrence behind him, watching his every move intently.

Jeff: Elmer scores a 2nd point! We are neck and neck this challenge!

Darnell tosses…and scores a 3rd point.

Darnell: Yes!

Oberon: Come on, Elmer, you can do this, think about how awesome it’d be to win four straight challenges.

Callum: Yeah, cos you’ve never felt that before. [snicker]

Elmer grits his teeth and shoots, narrowly nicking the edge of the hoop. Ingrid appears close to snapping, her whole body tense due to the suspense of it all, watching ball after ball miss the edge by mere inches. Peter’s face is a mask – stony and cold, beady eyes watching as Elmer tosses another ball into the air.

Jeff: Darnell scores again! Los Lagartos leading 4 – 2, twice Las Tortugas’ score!

Elmer: Gah, sorry guys. I’m not on my A-game right now.

Oberon: Come on dude, just try your best, don’t worry about it. You got this, we believe in you.

Callum: Yeah, whoo. Go Elmerrr…

Darnell is trying his hardest to focus amidst a cacophony of cheers, gasps and curses from the girls. Terrence watches from behind him, breathing heavily, looking worried as his figurative life in the game hangs in the balance with Darnell’s every move; Penny is clutching his arm tightly, wound up tight with frazzled nerves.

Jeff: Darnell can win it all right here…

Darnell inhales sharply. He raises his arms, throws the fifth and final ball…

…and scores!

Jeff: Darnell goes for it and succeeds! Los Lagartos wins their first challenge and their first immunity – safe from Tribal Council!

Darnell: YES! YES!

Darnell whoops and kicks the air triumphantly. Turning, he gets on his knees as the tribe rushes around for a group hug, Penny included. Darnell slaps Terrence on the back, a huge grin on his face.

Darnell: Hell yes!

In stark contrast, as soon as the fifth ball enters Los Lagartos’ basket, the Las Tortugas tribe appears to sag almost immediately as disappointment comes crashing down on them. Elmer slams a ball onto the platform and it bounces up and plops into the water. Oberon pats him on the back consolingly. Mitch looks defeated. Peter is unleashing a string of curse words in a long line of censored vulgarities.

Jeff: Los Lagartos – in spite of a terrible beginning, sometimes, the underdogs take it all when it matters most. Congrats. [hands Terrence the idol] Safe at tribal council tonight. I’ll miss you guys. Head back to camp.

The Los Lagartos tribe turns to swim back to shore. Darnell casts Elmer a look and gives him a nod of thanks.

"loslagartos"

- [puts hand on chest, breathing sigh of relief] Oh, man! [laughs] That… was by far one of the most intense games of basketball I’ve ever had. That was the most stressful challenge so far! The whole deal was very much a David beats Goliath moment. If Elmer threw that challenge for me, then I owe him one. I really do. Because I know Penny would have wanted me gone had we gone back to tribal. I may have just been blessed with another three more days to scramble and try to stay alive. It would be amazing to make it to the merge…

Jeff: As for you, Las Tortugas, unfortunately, in spite of being the supposedly stronger tribe, you will not be escaping this Tribal Council unscathed. Peter, you predicted challenge success early on. Upset that your streak has ended?

Peter: Well…all good things must come to an end I suppose. On Las Caimanes, we thought we were invincible too but apparently not. Honestly, what sucks the most was losing to a tribe with so many girls.

Ingrid looks up, staring ludicrously at Peter. Oberon raises an eyebrow.

Peter: You know, that’s, like, the worst part of it all. It’s humiliating. That’s the hardest pill to swallow.

Ingrid rolls her eyes, looking disbelieving.

Jeff: Alright, well, tribal tonight, where I’ll get my first idea of your new tribe dynamics, and someone will be the 6th unlucky person voted out of the game and this successful tribe. You have the afternoon to figure out who it’s gonna be. Head on back to camp, I’ll see you guys at tribal.

The tribe prepares to go. Callum does a back flip into the water. As they leave, the camera zooms in on the look of irritation flitting across Ingrid’s face.

"lastortugas"

- Today, we lost our first challenge. We were all set on taking out Callum because of his drunken antics the other day – dousing the fire, breaking a bottle, cutting open my leg, for crying out loud! But then Peter…decides to make some very questionable comments about how we lost to a tribe of girls…and I’m just thinking, ‘okay…does this guy not pay attention to the crap that comes out of his mouth, or is he really just that emotionally self-unaware?’ I’m standing right here, bro! That comment was made in poor taste and it incensed me. Peter just made himself a target.

After a snappy commercial break, the camera pans over the Las Tortugas beach. The now defeated tribe returns to their camp. Elmer sadly puts the pink flag down, sighing.

"lastortugas"

- So, losing today’s challenge was not good. I am very worried about tribal, because I know my trio of guys and I – we’re on the bottom. Clearly. And we’re in trouble, because of Callum’s and Peter’s antics. But I’m trying to be optimistic. Tribal’s not over until it’s over – and you can bet that if one of us three really is going to be sent out of the game, we’re going to keep fighting, and scrambling, and do our damnedest to stay alive to the very end. It’s time to go to work.

Elmer: Sorry, guys. I tried, I really did. I messed up. That’s all I can say.

Oberon: No worries, man…no one here blames you.

Callum: I mean…I blame you a little bit.

Elmer and Oberon both turn to look at him.

Callum: Kidding.

He snickers and walks off. Elmer rolls his eyes skyward.

"lastortugas"

- So, yeah…confession time. I threw today’s challenge. [sneaky grin] Darnell gave me some very interesting information from the other tribe. He told me that Penny flipped…now I don’t know what to make of that but it alarms me. But it’s not the time to worry about that now. Throwing a challenge is a major risk. You never want to go to tribal in this game. I dread going back to tribal after Las Tortugas’ disastrous beginning. But Darnell is an ally and if he really was on the bottom of that tribe of girls and Penny flipped, then I had to save him. Besides, the three Las Caimanes boys are on the outs right now. As long as me, Mitch, Oberon and Ingrid band together, we can send one of the trio home and no sweat.

Elmer meets up with Mitch, Oberon and Ingrid down by the beach, where they are having a discussion.

Elmer: Hey guys.

Oberon: Hey.

Elmer: So, we’re all good and in agreement with the idea of sending one of those three boys out?

Ingrid: Yes. For sure.

Mitch: Only problem is which one? Callum or Peter?

Oberon: Not Brett.

Elmer: Yeah, not Brett.

Oberon: Brett will be more of a threat at merge.

Elmer: Brett is more of a physical asset right now. If we don’t merge like I believe we will…I think we need him for our tribe to stay away from tribal. But going into the merge, Peter will be a strategic threat and that’s potentially more dangerous. Ingrid: I’m fine with getting rid of Peter. I can’t stand him, especially considering the stuff he was saying today. Mitch: Callum strikes me as a very foolish and irresponsible young man. I’m not fond of him either. Elmer: I know. We can have our pick of the two as to who to kick out. "lastortugas"

- So now, on this new tribe, the four of us: Ingrid, Elmer, Mitch and myself – have a tight foursome. I miss Terrence but I’ve also grown to like Elmer and respect Mitch and hopefully this is a new alliance that can stay strong in the merge. Right now our plan is for us four to vote for one of the three guys from Las Caimanes. They’re all rowdy, annoying…and just plain irritating. Their cockiness is the most nauseating thing about them. The idea is to vote for either Callum or Peter, honestly it’s all the same to me; Callum’s a bit of a goof, harmless but he gets on your nerves, whereas Peter’s more strategic, more threatening and also a lot meaner and more ruthless in nature. I know who I’d like to get rid of. Question is – who does our alliance want to get rid of first?

Callum is seen in the distance, walking back along the beach, heading back to the shelter from the well with a full canister of water swinging from his hand. He passes by the group of four talking in conspiratorial voices, and looks over curiously.

Ingrid: I say we get rid of Peter.

Mitch: Not Callum? After his stunt the other night?

Ingrid: Callum’s a moron, but Peter’s attitude is toxic. And he is undoubtedly going to be much more of a threat later on.

Elmer: I’m fine with that as long as one of them goes. Is everyone good with that?

Oberon: I’m cool.

Mitch: Sure.

"lastortugas"

- I wanted Callum gone because of his childish antics last night. But Peter made an offhand comment today about losing to the girls and that ticked Ingrid off so much, she changed the target onto him. It’s an example of how quickly the game can change, how quickly the target can shift onto someone else, and how even the slightest comment, made as a casual remark, could have devastating ramifications. So now, us four are gunning for Peter instead. I’d rather see Callum go but it is what it is, as long as our alliance stays intact, I’m fine with any of the three guys going home. My game is all about loyalty and I’m sticking with my group to the end.

Ingrid: I am totally down for us four moving forward. This is a solid group. I trust you all, and we’re gonna be really tight at the merge.

Mitch: Yeah, and when we get back together at merge, we can try to pull Penny and Darnell in.

Elmer looks away.

Ingrid: And Oberon has Terrence. That’s a majority. We can take out the rest of the Las Caimanes guys, Mitzi and Aisha. It’s foolproof. I love this.

"lastortugas"

- Me and Oberon have officially banded together with the guys from Las Tortugas and now the four of us are aligned and working together to get rid of our common enemy – the guys from Las Caimanes. Brett, Callum and Peter have clearly all let their arrogance get to their heads because of their early winning streaks and both Callum and Peter are just horrible people to live with. And given the complete lack of self-awareness Peter displayed at today’s challenge with the things he said about losing to women, I’m taking charge and sending our four votes his way. I can’t wait to see the look on his face when he gets sent home, and realizes that a woman brought about his downfall. [smiles deviously]

The group moves to head back to camp. Callum slinks back into the shadows, watching them go.

Mitch: As long as we have the majority, I’m cool. I just don’t like Callum because he’s an irresponsible young man. He has no business being out here if he’s not a team player.

Elmer: It’s okay, Mitch…let’s just stick with the plan and move on.

Callum’s eyes narrow, eyeing the group as they leave.

"lastortugas"

- I overheard Elmer, Mitch, Ingrid and Oberon having a little conversation. They’re definitely working together now, as if it weren’t already obvious and it seems they decided on Peter. But I heard Mitch say he thought I was an ‘irresponsible young man’. [feigns shock] Me? Irresponsible? How dare he! [legitimately offended] Mitch wasn’t on anyone’s radar, but now, he’s on mine. Mr. Family Guy has a lot of things about me to say behind my back but apparently none of the cahones to say it to my face. He does have that leadership vibe to him, being the last of the three tribe leaders left in the game. I’d like to see what the remaining members of Las Tortugas can do if we cut their leader out of the picture. They’d fall apart. I would love to see this already pitiful excuse of a tribe perform even more abysmally if we get rid of another one of their members.

Peter is meeting up with Callum and Brett in the forest.

Callum: I overheard them talking. They’re definitely banding together and against us. So we’re in trouble.

Peter: I don’t trust Ingrid. Not one bit. She detests me. I can tell. She thinks I’m sleazy. No way she’s voting with us. So we need to start discussing alternate plans.

Peter takes out his idol and shows it to the other two men.

Peter: I have a hidden immunity idol.

Brett: Shut the [censored] up.

Peter: See for yourself.

Brett: You [censored]! [laughs] You had the damn thing the whole time!

Callum’s jaw drops.

Callum: Oh, nice, man!

Peter: I’m sorry I didn’t tell you guys.

Callum: Who cares? This is huge!

He takes the idol from Peter and inspects it lovingly. Brett, who previously appeared dejected and resigned to fate, is now buzzing with renewed excitement.

Brett: Is that why you never split the vote when Natalia went home?

Peter: Yeah. Well, I knew she didn’t have the damn thing, didn’t I?

Brett: You crafty son-of-a-[censored]. How’d you find it?

Peter: I followed you and Erin back at camp. [laughs] I found it a while ago.

Brett: At any rate, this is huge. This is a game changer.

Callum: For sure.

Brett: We need to figure out who they’re voting for so we know who to play the idol on, and then we need to figure out who we’re going to throw our votes toward.

Callum: Isn’t it obvious? They’re voting for Pete!

Peter: Not necessarily…they might suspect I have an idol and change the plan by throwing their votes onto one of you two. So we’re going to have to get a good read on the situation. Watch out for suspicious body language, their tone of voice, stuff like that.

Callum: This is some deep psychology [censored], man. I don’t know how you expect to pick up on stuff like that.

Callum thinks about it for a second.

Callum: You know what would be fun?

Brett: Callum, don’t.

Callum: I’m going to go have a talk with Mitch.

Brett: Callum, don’t confront him. I’m serious. One wrong word and our advantage goes up in smoke. Please, nothing crazy? Be subtle.

Callum: Sure. Subtlety is my specialty. I got this.

Later on, Callum is talking with Mitch in the forest, a devious glint in the former’s eye.

Callum: Hey, pops!

Mitch: Quit calling me that, Callum.

Callum: Sure thing pops. What’s been going on?

Mitch looks down at his feet, hemming and hawing.

Mitch: What are you talking about?

Callum: Well, with regards to the vote. Brett told me that Elmer had agreed to us five sticking together and sending Ingrid home, to weaken the Los Lagartos’ numbers. They have the most people left in the game with 5 to everyone else’s 4. It’s the logical move!

Mitch: Elmer might have mentioned that.

Callum: Are you on board?

Mitch: I don’t know anything much about the vote. I’m sticking with whatever people tell me and what…you know…would help moving forward.

Callum: Is that so? Isn’t that interesting.

The two men stare each other down; Mitch looking stern, Callum with a false smile that doesn’t quite meet his eyes.

"lastortugas"

- Callum…I don’t even know what the guy is thinking. He enjoys taking the mickey out of me. He knows I’m out of my element and he preys on that. He’s a devious character and I wish we were taking him out instead of Peter. But Elmer said, whatever Ingrid says goes, because she’s the number we need right now.

Callum returns to camp, taking a seat next to Peter and Brett by the fire. Peter watches as Ingrid gets out of the ocean, sweeping her long wet hair back and out of her face. On the other end, Elmer is chopping open a coconut with a machete, and Mitch is hovering over him.

Callum: [whisper] Mitch is honestly so full of crap.

Peter: Oh yeah?

Callum: Yeah.

He turns to look at them.

Callum: I’m kind of thinking…we get rid of him. What do you say? We hold all the power now, though they don’t realize it.

Peter looks uncertain.

Peter: Mitch isn’t much of a threat. He doesn’t have much game beyond being loyal and a hard worker around camp.

Callum: Exactly. How can we carry out blindsides later on with a guy who doesn’t know how to play this game? Elmer, we could work with in the future.

Brett: I thought we were sticking with the plan to take out either Ingrid or Oberon. Original Los Lagartos does still have the most numbers in the game.

Callum: Yeah, but haven’t you heard their stories about this chick called Mitzi? Their tribe sounds like the most dysfunctional. They’re not working together. I still say we get rid of Mitch. It sends a message. You [censored] with us, we [censored] with you right back. [laughs]

Peter chuckles.

Peter: Why not Elmer? Elmer’s very sociable, very charismatic…I heard he’s got a girl on the other tribe too.

Callum whistles.

Callum: We’ve got a new contender for the Power Couple of the Cayman Islands. Brett, you and Erin better start making babies if you still want to fight for that title-

Brett: Alright, enough horsing around. Seriously. Who are we voting? Do they suspect you have an idol?

Peter: I don’t think so.

Brett: I’ve still been scrambling. I fed Elmer some story that us guys work together to target Ingrid, to lower Los Lagartos’ numbers.

Callum: Speaking of which, Ingrid really hates you, man. The whole reason they’re targeting you is because of how much of a misogynist you are, apparently.

Peter looks offended.

Peter: What, cos I make a couple comments about losing to girls? Get over yourself.

Brett: Guys, we have to make a decision. Elmer, Ingrid or Mitch?

Peter bites the inside of his cheek, staring straight ahead, thinking hard.

"lastortugas"

- Those four think they have this game locked down. They chide us three for our arrogance but they’re the ones so blinded by their confidence that they’ve got this vote locked down, they don’t even bother to check in with us. So my idol is definitely coming out tonight because I’m getting stonewalled wherever I turn with the four of them. And the decision on who to send home is still up in the air. Brett wants to get rid of Ingrid, I want to get rid of Elmer, and Callum wants to get rid of Mitch. We’re completely split on who to vote for but we need to get our thoughts together because tribal is coming up fast. But at least one thing’s for certain – with my idol, I hold all the power, and I’ll be here to stay another three days. And one of those four is about to be blindsided right out of the game, and it’ll be delicious.

Clouds float on by, rapidly obscuring the sun as it sinks beneath the horizon. As evening falls, the Tribal Council set looms near. Seven lit torches bob in the pitch black darkness, as Las Tortugas arrives. Jeff stands, watching, as everyone puts their torches down and takes their seats.

Jeff: Alright, welcome back to tribal. So, this is our first meeting since the swap. Tell me, Elmer, what is the tribe like so far? Are you all getting along since the switch-up?

Callum turns to look at Elmer, a mockingly inquisitive expression on his face.

Elmer: Well, it is a bit of a…um…culture shock, I guess…having all these people from different tribes come together. Personalities clash, there are some bad eggs, but otherwise, I think we were all doing fine given our winning streak.

Jeff: You mentioned ‘bad eggs’? Care to elaborate?

Elmer: Uhh…

Elmer splutters, a little flustered.

Peter smirks, rolling his eyes. Brett arches an eyebrow. Ingrid looks over.

Elmer: Not everyone gets along, I guess. It was nowhere near as draining as living with Wilkes, I guess.

Ingrid: Or Mitzi.

Elmer: Right. But, when different personalities come together…there’s bound to be some…dissension.

Jeff: So who are we talking about here?

Elmer: I guess the general consensus is that…Callum and Peter are…a little rowdy, I guess, for some people.

Callum shakes his head, grinning. Peter doesn’t look concerned, merely cocking his head to the side.

Jeff: Callum. You heard that. Your response?

Callum: Hey, the guy has an opinion. I don’t fault him for that.

Elmer exhales, nodding.

Callum: To be honest, like Elmer said…there is a bit of culture shock. People with different personalities and characters can clash and sometimes, the ramifications are more severe than with others. We all try to get along but sometimes we’re not always a peachy, happy family.

Jeff: Why do you think you and Peter are not gelling well with the rest of the tribe?

Callum shrugs.

Callum: Back on Las Caimanes, it was a very boyish camp. I guess here, even with 6 boys outnumbering 1 girl…

Ingrid scoffs.

Callum:…the camp is still very different from what me and Peter and Brett were used to, back at our old tribe. So we’ve had troubles adjusting. It’s to be expected.

Jeff: Do you think that this…’culture shock’…as you describe it, will be enough incentive to vote one of you guys out?

Callum: I mean, I hope not.

Elmer laughs. Oberon smiles to himself.

Callum: I mean, might as well just lay it all out here. I have the bad feeling that me, Peter and Brett might be on the bottom.

Ingrid is shaking her head, rubbing her temples. Mitch rolls his eyes skyward, licking his lips.

Callum: Elmer and Mitch very quickly got Ingrid and Oberon to their side, and as far as I know, those four are voting for one of the three of us.

Jeff: And that’s not good for you.

Callum: No, not at all! It sucks!

Jeff: So, given that you already know this, is it going to be a blindside, or is it just a straightforward vote that you can’t weasel out of, and now it’s just having to campaign against Brett and Peter as to why you should stay?

Callum: Well, I mean, I hope things work out the way I want them to.

Jeff: Peter, have you made a pitch to the other four as to why you should stay?

Peter shrugs.

Peter: I don’t see why I should. It’s not going to change their minds.

Mitch shakes his head, looking insulted. Ingrid is losing her mind with incredulity at Peter’s statement.

Jeff: So you didn’t even bother?

Peter: I didn’t say that. I mean…me and Callum very quickly ended up on the outs within this tribe because people like Elmer, Ingrid, Mitch…they aren’t too fond of our antics. It’s like Callum said: culture shock. And it’s just a situation where we’re not going to get along. So socially and strategically, they see that it makes no sense for them to come with us.

Jeff: So is that it? Have you just given up?

Peter: Of course not. I’m still hoping for a silver lining in all of this, that maybe I can stay a few more days, because I don’t feel at peace with my game ending here, screwed by a tribe swap.

Jeff: Ingrid, what do you think on all this? What role do you play in all this, politically? You have two guys, clearly on the chopping block, each wanting to stay in the game. What’s your basis on voting someone out?

Ingrid: Well, we have to consider the future of the game – whether keeping someone over another person will be more beneficial later on at the merge, when things get a lot dicier. And I don’t think it’s fair for Callum and Peter to blame their fates entirely on ‘culture shock’.

Callum looks up. Peter glares at Ingrid.

Ingrid: Brett was on Las Caimanes too and he got along fine with the rest of us. His only crime is guilt by association. But Callum and Peter have not put in the effort to gel with the rest of us, to really let us all bond as a new tribe. Peter, especially, showed an incredible lack of self-awareness today at the challenge-

Peter smirks, mumbling to himself.

Peter: [mumbling] Oh boy, here we go.

Ingrid: To talk about how humiliating it is to lose to ‘girls’ when I’m standing right here?! – you have to be really dense to not see how that statement’s going to sound offensive.

Peter: It was just an offhand comment. I didn’t mean anything by it.

Ingrid: This is a game in which the slightest utterance could have rippling effects. That’s all I have to say on the matter.

Jeff: So Mitch, is it set in stone that the four of you – Elmer, Ingrid, Oberon and yourself – are safe, and you’re not voting for each other?

Mitch: That is correct.

Jeff: And that the four of you are voting for either Callum or Peter, based on their behavior and actions of the past five days.

Mitch: That is correct.

Brett: It’s a race to see who’s more of a pain in the [censored].

Callum laughs.

Callum: That’s one race I don’t want to win.

Jeff: Alright, Peter, Callum, I hope you’re both prepared, because it is time to vote. Oberon, you’re up.

Oberon gets up and the voting music kicks in. Peter sighs and puts his head in his hands, looking tired. Callum grins at Brett, cocky as usual. Brett nods at him.

Ingrid holds her vote up to the camera, but it is not shown, deliberately out of view. She is merely seen holding the vote up from an overhead view.

"lastortugas"

- You or Mitzi – which is worse? I don’t know. I can’t stand you. I can’t stand your attitude, your behavior, your personality – you just irritate me. You’re toxic, judgmental, cynical, overconfident and misogynistic. I hope you go home, because you’re a total eyesore.

Mitch bites his thumbnail, lost in his own thoughts, casting Callum a sidelong glance.

Callum holds up his vote to the camera, but it too is not shown. Instead, he is likewise seen holding it up from an overhead view.

"lastortugas"

- This is what happens when you mess with the big boys. Enjoy Ponderosa, buddy!

Elmer clasps his hands together, elbows on his knees as he stares straight ahead, a look of concern on his face.

Finally, Brett returns from the voting booth.

Jeff: I’ll go tally the votes.

He leaves. Elmer turns to look at Mitch and Mitch gives him a reassuring nod. Ingrid takes a deep breath and exhales slowly, the lines around the corners of her eyes deepening. Callum playfully puts an arm around Peter and hugs him.

Callum: Love you, man.

Peter: Yeah, bro. Good luck.

Jeff returns.

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

Peter hesitates, thinking it over…then he stands up.

Peter: Eh. Why the hell not?

Ingrid’s eyes flashes with warning. Elmer shakes his head, looking irritable. Oberon’s jaw drops. Mitch sighs with disappointment, turning to share a concerned look with Elmer.

Peter walks over.

Peter: I know I’m probably getting votes tonight, Jeff. I refuse to go home with this in my pocket.

He hands the idol to Jeff. Callum is grinning conspicuously, watching a frustrated Ingrid and a heated Elmer out of the corner of his eye.

Peter: Playin’ it on me.

Jeff: Alright, rules of Survivor state that if a hidden immunity idol is played, then any votes cast for that person will not count. This is…a hidden immunity idol. Any votes cast for Peter will not count. The person with the second highest number of votes will be asked to leave the tribal council area immediately. I’ll read the votes.

Peter grins. Callum is silently laughing. Brett smiles uncertainly, turning to look as Probst reads the first vote.

Jeff: First vote…Peter. Does not count.

Peter’s grin gets even larger. Callum whistles.

Callum: Nice, bro.

Jeff: Peter. Does not count.

Elmer looks disgusted, rubbing his temples with his knuckles. Oberon casts a worried glance in Probst’s direction.

Jeff: Peter. Does not count.

Peter holds out his hand, and Callum gives him a quick high-five. Brett is concealing an amused smirk behind his hand.

Jeff: Peter, does not count. We still have zero votes cast for anybody.

Elmer holds his breath, waiting for the bomb to drop. Ingrid looks sad, clutching Oberon’s hand for comfort.

Jeff flips the fifth vote over.

Jeff: Mitch. One vote Mitch.

Mitch’s eyes widen. Elmer does a sharp double-take, looking aghast. Ingrid turns to look at Mitch, apologetic. Callum is still laughing to himself like a mental patient. Peter smiles tentatively, shaking his head in amusement.

Jeff: Sixth person voted out…Mitch. That’s two, that’s enough. Need to bring me your torch.

Mitch gets up to go. Elmer looks at Ingrid and shakes his head. Oberon looks shocked. Brett, Callum and Peter are sharing high fives, all in smiles.

A devastated Mitch stands before Probst, slotting his torch down, laughing sadly to himself with a reproachful shake of the head.

Jeff: Mitch, your tribe has spoken. [snuffs torch] Time for you to go.

Mitch nods, looking hurt. He leaves without a second glance back. Elmer looks crushed, murmuring ‘Wow’ under his breath. Ingrid gives Oberon a look, and gives a small shake of the head, looking disappointed.

Jeff: Judging by what just happened, it’s clear there’s a very evident division present in this tribe. And it serves as a reminder that anything can and will happen, and nothing is ever set in stone; be it idols, blindsides or unexpected votes. I’m excited to see how the dynamic of this tribe will continue to play out. Grab your stuff, head back to camp. Goodnight.

Voting Confessionals
"lastortugas"

- It’s nothing personal, but man, you suck at the social portion of this game.

"lastortugas"

- Don’t come after my boys, because we will fight back.

"lastortugas"

- Your already pathetic tribe is going to be even lower in numbers. I’m not sorry.

"lastortugas"

- Peter, if you were trying to be this season’s villain, you succeeded. Unfortunately, your reign stops here.

"lastortugas"

- I really hope this plays out. The moral of the story is: don’t be an asshole.

Final Words
"lastortugas"

- [deep sigh]…I did not expect to be out this early. I thought I was doing a good job staying in the shadows, controlling things from behind the scenes. We would’ve come out on top of this vote if it wasn’t for Peter having that idol. And I’m left to wonder if he would’ve played it or not if Ingrid hadn’t made it so obvious we were all voting for him. Her lack of tact ended up leading to my ultimate downfall. And it sucks. Especially since I promised my girls I’d make it to the end for them. Getting taken out before the merge and before the jury is going to sting for a long while after this game but I guess I have quite a lot of time to try and get over it. [laughs]

Next Time on Survivor...

 * In the aftermath of a timely idol play and a devastating blindside, Elmer, Oberon and Ingrid go to war with the boys of Las Caimanes.

"lastortugas"

- We have to fight back. It’s now or never. Those three guys are going to let their arrogance take over at the merge, and I’ll be damned if I let that slide after they took out one of my closest allies.

"lastortugas"

- What happened last night scared me. Once again, an idol has completely thwarted my plans. I’ve not voted the right way once this whole season because of idols popping up here and there. It’s disconcerting. And Peter is still in the game! I can’t stand the thought that that jackass is going to outlast me.

"lastortugas"

- You have to wonder if maybe Ingrid’s blabbermouth tipped the scales in the guys’ favor. Could she have made it any more obvious that she was going to vote against Peter? In a way, she got Mitch sent home. Her lack of tact and subtlety is a cause for concern and could be trouble in the near future.

Elmer, Oberon and Ingrid are seen sitting in the shelter. On the opposite side, all three boys from Las Caimanes sit on logs and stumps. Oberon looks somber. Peter props his leg up, picking at his teeth, a cocky aura surrounding him.

"lastortugas"

- We’ve got the upper hand. Ingrid and Elmer know not to mess with us.

"lastortugas"

- They tried to take us down, so we struck back first. Elmer is leading the charge on their end and I know he’s itching for some revenge.

"lastortugas"

- [laughs] This is how the game is meant to be played! A good old-fashioned alliance war. I love it! I love the euphoria, feeling on top. Last night was brutal for them and I relished every second of it!


 * The hunt for idols is back on!

Elmer: I found a clue at the reward the other day. We have to find this thing before they do.

Elmer unravels the clue and shows it to Ingrid and Oberon in the woods.

Peter and Callum are shown searching around a cluster of boulders, digging into mossy holes.

Callum: This is disgusting! Would they really hide it in here?

Peter: We have to find it. We’ll need it if we go back to tribal, Callum.

"lastortugas"

- It would be so amazing to find a second idol immediately after playing my first. I want that distinction, I want it bad.


 * Whereas on Los Lagartos, allies Darnell and Terrence are forced to throw each other under the bus to survive.

"loslagartos"

- Terrence is a good kid, but the guy is about to get run under a massive Greyhound bus. I’m a fighter, and I will go out of my way to get him off this beach if it means another three more days for me.

"loslagartos"

- Like, bro, stop faking. I’m not stupid. I know it’s either you or me going home if we go to tribal. So stop with the lies, end the façade. I’m unhappy about being forced into this vote but I will throw him under the bus to the girls and I will send him home if I have no other option. I have to reunite with Oberon and Ingrid. I have to.

Mitzi: I really really am not comfortable with keeping Terrence in.

Penny: But Darnell is just a bully. You heard what he said about what he’d do if he made jury. It could be the end of my game if we keep him too long.

Mitzi: Darnell is a big threat, I agree. But Terrence is just…I’ve wanted revenge against those three from Los Lagartos for a long time, and I don’t want to miss this opportunity. He will get back in with Oberon and Ingrid and the trio will wreak havoc for us. If anyone’s wreaking havoc around here, it’s me, not him.

"loslagartos"

- Penny has fallen under Terrence’s spell. She will do anything to save him and send Darnell home, because she likes him more. This is ridiculous. I passed up my chance to take out Oberon’s most loyal ally last time, I won’t make that same mistake twice.


 * And will the two tribes finally merge?

Jeff: Everybody…

Penny gasps, covering her mouth with her hand.

Jeff: Drop…

Mitzi is laughing to herself, her hand on her buff. Darnell bites his lip.

Jeff: Your…

Callum is jumping up and down, grabbing both Brett and Peter by the shoulders.

Callum: Jeff!

Author's Notes

 * The episode title was said by Ingrid regarding her desire to take out Peter, but also ultimately foreshadowing her unwitting contribution to Mitch's blindside.


 * In an earlier draft, Elmer, Mitch, Ingrid and Oberon had voted for Callum, believing that if Peter had an idol he would think he’d be the target and play it on himself, and also because they wanted Brett for physical challenges and thought of Callum as Peter’s right-hand man. However, in the alternate draft, Peter was smart enough to figure out they were trying to flush the idol and played it on Callum, negating their votes all the same and idoling out Mitch. This was changed to them all voting for Peter and him using the idol on himself to illustrate two things: 1) Peter being too selfish to play the idol on another person, even his closest ally in Callum and 2) Ingrid’s blabbermouth regarding Peter’s controversial comments confirming that night’s target and leading to Mitch’s untimely demise.

Trivia

 * After tonight’s episode, all three original tribe leaders – appointed on Day 1 – have been eliminated from the game before the jury phase.


 * Ingrid scribbled ‘Poisonous Peter’ on her voting parchment, complete with a smiley face underneath, alongside her trademark ‘xoxo’.