Nothing But Testosterone Around Me

Nothing But Testosterone Around Me is the fifth episode of Survivor: Cayman Islands.

Previously On Survivor...

 * Life on the Los Lagartos erupted into chaos after Aidan’s blindside…

"loslagartos"

- I totally underestimated her. I knew she was a bit of an aggressive player but what she did last night was crazy, and a little scary. I’ve tried to apologize, tried to talk through my decision to turn my back to her. It’s not like I haven’t tried. I’ve tried, to apologize to her. This chick just won’t let it go.

Terrence: As long as it doesn’t culminate into a full-fledged quarrel.

Oberon: This is Mitzi we’re talking about. Expect fireworks.

Terrence: I can’t take anymore fighting around camp.

"loslagartos"

- Ingrid thinks I’ll just forget about what happened the other night, that I’ll just roll over and forget it ever happened and let bygones be bygones. Uh-uh. Apart from Aisha, everyone on this campsite is dead to me. Everyone here turned on me last night and were trying to take me out. So, as soon as a swap comes, or the merge, and I get my chance: bang, bang, bang. I’m making it my goal to take all three of them out – starting with Ingrid.


 * On Las Tortugas, Darnell grew annoyed with Penny and Elmer.

A clip of Penny and Elmer making out in the night is shown, the pair giggling and flirting and fondling each other.

Penny: [giggling, in a whisper] Shh! They’ll hear us!

Elmer: [whisper] It’s fine. [laughs] Who cares?

Darnell casts them an irritated look in the dark.

"lastortugas"

- The Prom King and Queen over there are driving me nuts. I barely slept one [censored] wink last night. It’s hard enough to catch some shuteye out here in the wilderness, and #Pelmer over there just made it harder. Maybe it is time to make a move and split those two up, because I’m sick of the pair of them.


 * …and plotted to take out the stronger of the two.

Darnell: Listen, I’m thinking, next time we have to go to tribal, we have to break up the two of them. But I’m thinking, instead of voting Penny, we vote…Elmer.

Mitch casts Darnell a worried glance.

Mitch: Elmer’s better in challenges.

Darnell: I know that. That’s why I want him gone. A tribe swap is inevitable. We’re changing tribes sooner or later. I’d rather risk having Penny on my new tribe than having Elmer on the other tribe.

"lastortugas"

- Darnell is getting annoyed at Elmer and Penny. He wants to make a move and put Elmer’s name down on that parchment and send him home because he’s threatened by him. He thinks they’re too tight. And I’m starting to see sense in that. The topic of power couples and the threat they poses is a very prevalent theme in our tribe. It is smart to be wary of them and strike now while the iron is hot. Those two are very dangerous together.

Elmer: I want to go to the Final 2 with you.

Penny: Oh yeah?

Elmer: Yeah. You and me. We could do it.

"lastortugas"

- I don’t like the idea of keeping Elmer once the merge comes for a variety of reasons but there are pros to keeping him as well, that could balance out any cons. Penny may be weaker than him in a lot of ways but that can just as easily be perceived as a flaw rather than to her advantage in the later stages of the game. Do we get rid of Penny or do we get rid of Elmer? And even if Mitch and I make a decision, will we get the other person to flip should we go back to tribal? With so much up in the air, I hope we don’t have to go back to tribal because we are in a hell of a dilemma regarding those two and I don’t know what to do.


 * Meanwhile on Las Caimanes, Brett chose not to heed Erin’s advice and stuck close to her, in spite of Natalia’s growing paranoia.

Erin: Natalia’s been spreading rumors about us. She says we’re a big power couple. Brett. I’m being serious. I don’t want us to get screwed over.

Brett: We won’t be. I trust Callum and Peter. The guys remind me of my friends back home. Us guys are very tight, we’re not splitting up, and you’re safe with me.

Erin: Peter, I worry about. He’s very cunning and he’s always thinking about the game. I’m afraid he’ll be threatened by our relationship.

"lascaimanes"

- Believe it or not, I’ve grown to trust Brett and I consider him my partner in this game. I don’t want my relationship with him to end up costing me. Me and Natalia and Yvonne decided we’d have a thing going at the start but that’s kind of dissipated by now. I know she’s out to get me, so me and Brett – we’ve got to get her first.


 * At the immunity challenge, Las Caimanes started off in the lead with a huge head start as per usual, hoping to continue their winning streak…

Jeff: It is Las Caimanes still in the lead, as usual!


 * But it all went to waste as Las Tortugas came from behind and won it all in a massive comeback, leaving Las Caimanes in dead last, to attend their first tribal council of the season.

Jeff: And just like that – Las Tortugas, comes from behind and wins immunity and get to choose their reward! Safe at tribal council! A massive comeback victory! That just goes to show you never give up in this game because anything can happen!

Mitzi is shown kissing the Los Lagartos tribal immunity idol.

Mitzi: Mommy needed you now more than ever.

A grimy and weary-looking Yvonne casts a look of despair at the rest of her tribe, as Callum scoffs and dusts himself off.

Yvonne: Told you not to jinx it.


 * Back at camp, the previously unbeatable tribe fractured, splitting up into three voting blocs of two players each, with duo Brett and Erin competing with duo Natalia and Yvonne for the crucial swing votes in Peter and Callum.

Peter and Callum are shown talking in hushed whispers, debating that night’s vote.

Peter: We need to make a decision.

Callum: Your call, brother.

"lascaimanes"

- As I sit here right now talking, the decision is still in my hands. Whoever I choose to send home…will go home. I hold all the cards in my hands right now, this is too much power for one man. And I still have not made my decision. 12 days out here and I could’ve decided anytime but this is going to come down to the wire.


 * In spite of Peter and Callum worrying about Brett’s relationship with Erin, they took the chance and stayed loyal to the pair, voting out Natalia and leaving her ally Yvonne all alone on the bottom.

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

Callum winks at Natalia as she leaves, and Peter nods reassuringly at Brett. Erin smiles, relieved.


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

Challenge
Reward Challenge: Snare the Drum (Philippines)

One representative from each tribe will compete against each other. There are three large circles in the sand, with two drums – one pink, one brown – in the middle of each circle. Each tribe must attempt to flip over all three of their drums at the same time, while preventing the other team from doing so by flipping their drums back over. First tribe to have all three of their drums face up scores a point; first tribe to score three points wins reward. Reward: All the rewards that the Las Caimanes tribe previously won (hammock, fishing kit etc).

Winner: Las Tortugas

Immunity Challenge: Swing Break (Philippines)

Tribes will race out in three pairs to transport a sleigh of heavy rice-filled pots through a series of obstacles. Once through the obstacles, castaways must place the pots in a series of stands. Once all the stands are filled, the remaining castaway will use a wrecking ball to smash the pots. The first tribe to knock out all their pots wins the challenge. Reward: Tribal Immunity.

Winner: Las Tortugas

Night 12
It is late at night. The full moon is out, as the five remaining members of Las Caimanes walk back to camp, carrying their unlit torches.

Erin: First tribal survived, guys.

Brett does a half-hearted cheer.

Peter: Yeah…

Callum: Well, with Natalia gone, who am I gonna annoy now? [laughs]

Callum leans back in the shelter, with his arms behind his head, shooting a cocky smirk at Yvonne, who is seated next to him, looking sleepy.

Callum: How about you, Yvonne? Can I annoy you?

Yvonne smiles, tired and not amused.

Yvonne: Sure, Callum. Annoy me all you want.

Brett sighs.

Brett: Well, guys, I just want to thank you for keeping me and Erin here. I mean, I know there’s a lot of worry about us being…you know, a pair. Forget about that. We’re a tribe. That’s all I care about. And we’re a very successful tribe. We voted out the weakest link in our group and we’re more united, more cohesive, and a hell of a lot more stronger now. Let’s stay strong, stick together, and when the five of us make merge, we’ll dominate and slay them all. Las Caimanes to the end.

Callum whoops, thrusting his fist in the air.

Callum: Great speech. 10/10.

Yvonne shrugs.

Yvonne: I’m actually really beat, guys. I’m gonna go to bed.

She lays down and closes her eyes, trying to get to sleep. Erin watches her, sitting by the fire in her hoodie.

"lascaimanes"

- So, we just returned from tribal, and…it was basically either me or Natalia going and I stayed. My strategy and my social game paid off and I’m still here to show for it. But…Yvonne did cast a vote against me. How do you just get over that? [laughs] Like, awkwaaard.

Callum leans over out of Yvonne’s earshot, his face lit up with malicious mischief.

Callum: [whisper] She feels on the bottom.

Peter: She should.

Brett: Shh. Whatever.

"lascaimanes"

- Yvonne did so badly in that last challenge, it honestly makes me worry about her performance in the future. I would have no problem voting her out at our next tribal but it’s inevitable we’re having a tribe swap tomorrow. Yvonne will be a problem I’ll have to deal with sooner or later down the road. She’s no physical asset, she’s not a meat shield, and she is a social and strategic threat. She was the leader of our tribe, even! Plenty of reasons why she’s gotta go. I’m just looking out for myself.

Yvonne is seen blinking up at the ceiling of the shelter, shivering in her hoodie, as the other three guys and Erin crowd around the fire. Peter is chewing on a toothpick, solemn and moody. Callum is poking at the fire with playful glee, humming to himself.

"lascaimanes"

- I know I no longer have a good standing on my tribe. I’m its supposed leader and yet I’m on the bottom of the pecking order right now. Erin was meant to go home, but she didn’t. I lost my only ally in Natalia and these four are all united in wanting me gone. The whole girls’ alliance thing on Day 1 – that’s all…um…it’s all baloney. Yet I’m not one to give up and I’m not one to lose hope. I mean, this is Survivor and my motto is that anything can and will happen. But it’s looking pretty bleak.

Brett whispers a joke into Erin’s ear and she laughs. Yvonne raises her head to see the other four of her tribemates all chilling and chatting and hanging out by the fire, as she lies by her side on her own in the shelter, alone and trying to get some sleep, looking a little jilted.

"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.

Day 13
Jeff: Come on in guys!

The three tribes trail in, Las Tortugas in the lead, all smiles, Penny positively glowing. Los Lagartos is a lot less cheery in the aftermath of the recent idol mania, a stormy-looking Mitzi bringing up the rear, carrying their flag by her side and kicking the sand at her feet as she walks.

Jeff: Las Tortugas and Los Lagartos, getting your first look at the new Las Caimanes tribe. Natalia, voted out at the last tribal council.

Las Caimanes enters the fray, trudging along, as the others watch them come in. Mitzi smirks.

"loslagartos"

- You know, part of me is kinda happy to see Las Caimanes finally go to tribal. It’s annoying to see one tribe dominate for so long and never visit tribal when you know how it feels and how much it sucks to have to go there. They were previously unbeaten and it’s funny to see them all dejected and sad from losing their first member. It was definitely a harsh wake up call for some of the more cocky members of that group of guys. Time to get off your high horses, and start playing this game!

Jeff: Alright, ready to get to today’s reward challenge?

A chorus of “Yes!” rises up from the assembled castaways.

Jeff: Before we get to the challenge, there is a twist…

Penny bites her lip, nervous. Ingrid is laughing to herself, muttering under her breath. Mitzi grins tentatively, watching Probst with a hopeful glimmer in her eye. Yvonne looks up hopefully. Erin clasps her hand over her mouth and instinctively grabs Brett’s shoulder.

Jeff: For the last 13 days, you have been together on three separate tribes. You’ve all been to tribal at least once, you’ve all felt what it’s like to vote somebody off and you’ve all had the opportunity to prove trust among your original tribemates. Now – all the relationships you’ve built up over the past two weeks, all the friendships and the connections – they could be undone.

Ingrid now has both hands clasped over her mouth. Mitch is smiling and shaking his head. Callum scratches his head, waiting for the bomb to drop.

Jeff: That’s right. Drop your buffs. We are switching things up.

Everyone reacts at once. Ingrid clings onto Oberon’s arm, open-mouthed and wide-eyed with excitement. Mitzi’s eyes are shining, beaming widely. Brett is hanging his head and laughing at the sand by his feet. Callum takes his buff off and tosses it to the floor with ease, while Peter is mouthing incoherent words to himself. Elmer squeezes Penny’s shoulder.

"lascaimanes"

- 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. I have a new family now. New faces, new allies and hopefully a new beginning to the game for me.

Jeff: For some of you, this tribe swap could mean new life in this game to those of you on the bottom, and it could mean disaster for those who were comfortable at the top. This is where the luck of the draw comes into play in Survivor. Everyone close your eyes and draw a buff from the bag. Don’t look and don’t reveal, let me share in the suspense.

He goes around, holding open a bag for everyone to draw a random buff. Callum pretends to peek inside, flashing his trademark grin as Probst comes over to him.

Jeff: NO peeking, Callum.

Callum: C’mon Jeff…what makes you think I would ever do such a thing? [winks]

Jeff: Alright, you are looking for pink and brown buffs. Las Caimanes is no more. Everybody reveal.

Drawstrings are pulled simultaneously as everyone unveils their new buffs. Elmer whips out the same pink Las Tortugas buff, cursing when he sees Penny unveil a brown Los Lagartos one. Mitzi unveils a brown buff just like the one she has abandoned, seeing Aisha draw the same one.

Mitzi: Yeah, girl.

"loslagartos"

- Yes! Thank [censored] for this swap. I needed this now more than ever. My old tribe sucked! But I have a good feeling about my new tribe. I still have my main girl Aisha on my side – so I got lucky, we could have been separated. I just need to adapt and make something good out of this second opportunity.

Terrence pulls out his own brown buff and looks disappointed when Oberon unveils a pink one.

Terrence: Damn it.

Oberon: Aw, that sucks, dude. Stay strong.

Callum: Alright! [unveiling pink buff] I love pink!

Brett: We all still together?

All three guys from Las Caimanes have pink buffs. Erin sighs at her new brown buff, looking wistfully at Brett. Yvonne is grinning at her new brown buff, looking relieved.

Jeff: Say your goodbyes and join your new tribes on your respective mats. Las Caimanes may have been the most successful of the three tribes but it is no more. Our two new tribes are Las Tortugas and Los Lagartos. If you have pink, step over onto the pink mat. If you are brown, step over onto the brown mat.

Everyone moves over to stand on their new tribe mats. Penny reaches over to hug Elmer tightly, crying already.

Penny: I’m gonna miss you…[sniff]

Mitch comes over and she gives him a final hug as well.

Mitch: You’ll do fine, sweetheart.

Elmer: Yeah…we’ll meet again at the merge. Don’t worry.

Penny kisses Elmer on the cheek as she follows Darnell over to the brown mat. Meanwhile, back on the green mat, Brett is hugging Erin goodbye.

Brett: [whispers when kissing Erin on the cheek] Stay strong. We’ll regroup at the merge. Remember, Las Caimanes to the end.

Erin: I’m worried about Yvonne.

Brett: You can do it, Erin. You’re a tough chick.

He pats her on the back as they separate. Terrence too claps Oberon on the back as the two friends part ways – Oberon moving over to the Las Tortugas mat. Mitzi is smiling playfully at him.

Mitzi: Aww…you’re still stuck with me, buddy.

Terrence laughs good-naturedly.

Callum: He-ey! What’s up, bro?

Callum is giving Elmer a warm hug, with the latter looking faintly uncomfortable. Brett and Peter are coming over too; Peter shaking Oberon’s hand and Brett is clapping Mitch on the back and grinning.

"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.

Penny and Darnell are heading over to the Los Lagartos mat, where Erin smiles and warmly greets Penny. Darnell gives Terrence’s hand a firm clap and a shake in acknowledgement.

Jeff: Three tribes are no more! You are starting anew. Now, we have our two new tribes. On the new Las Tortugas, we have two original Las Tortugas members – Elmer and Mitch, two original Los Lagartos members – Oberon and Ingrid, and three original Las Caimanes members – Brett, Callum and Peter. On the new Los Lagartos tribe, we have two original Las Tortugas members – Penny and Darnell, three original Los Lagartos members – Mitzi, Aisha and Terrence, and two original Las Caimanes members – Erin and Yvonne.

Jeff: So, Ingrid, size up these two tribes. You exchange your brown buff for a pink one and are now the only female on a tribe full of all men. How does that make you feel?

The others laugh and Ingrid is good-natured about it all, standing as the sole woman in a group of six other men.

Ingrid: Yeah, yeah, I guess this is a bit of a Sausage Fest of a tribe. [laughs] Uh…well, I think this will be good! Being the only girl in a group full of guys can be intimidating but I won't let it faze me. I mean, I’m excited to get to know these new people, and I still have one original tribemate with me so it’s not all bad. And I think the good news is that we have the clear advantage here in terms of strength.

Jeff: Peter, all three guys from Las Caimanes are still together. Your thoughts?

Peter: Well, it’s good to have some familiar faces, of course. And I am excited to get to meet these new people. I think we have a very strong tribe because we are predominantly male. So I look forward to continuing the winning streak that Las Caimanes should’ve kept going.

Ingrid raises an eyebrow. Mitzi rolls her eyes from the other mat.

"lastortugas"

- Peter made a comment today about how our tribe was going to be stronger because we had more guys. So that worries me that he’s going to see me as a liability down the road because I’m the only woman on the tribe and may want to get rid of me. I don’t know if he was thinking clearly about the ramifications of what he said, but I’m always thinking, always observing, and I think he slipped up there. Now I don’t trust him, already. We’ve only just met and already he’s making a bad first impression on me.

Jeff: Meanwhile on Los Lagartos it’s a different story. Darnell, you are now one of the only two men on a tribe full of women. What’s that like?

Darnell: Well, I’ve been told I can be really charming so maybe it’ll work out in my favor.

Brett grins. Callum is chuckling to himself.

Jeff: Penny, you don’t look very happy.

Penny sniffs, pausing.

Penny: [crying] It’s just…the four of us have been through so much hell together in those first two tribals…I didn’t want a swap.

Erin reaches over and squeezes her shoulder consolingly. Penny gives her a brief nod of thanks.

Jeff: Erin, what do you think of your new tribe? Do you think this will be a strong tribe, in spite of being – according to Peter – not predominantly male?

Peter chuckles to himself. Erin thinks on the question.

Erin: I think he’s being a little too quick to judge. I think our tribe will do just fine.

Jeff: Alright, now, shall we get to your first challenge as new tribes? On my go, each tribe will send out one representative to take part in the challenge. You will go up against the other tribe’s representative. There are three large circles in the sand, with two drums – one pink, one brown – in the middle of each circle. When I give the signal, each representative must attempt to flip over all three of their drums at the same time, while preventing the other team from doing so. First team to earn three points wins the reward. Wanna know what you’re playing for?

Jeff takes a deep breath.

Jeff: Since the Las Caimanes camp is no longer inhabited, I think it’d be a waste to let all the stuff at the camp go unused. Therefore, all the rewards that the Las Caimanes tribe won in the past few challenges is up for grabs – win this reward challenge and all of it goes to you. And that is a LOT of stuff.

This elicits a few laughs and sniggers. Elmer is nodding at Mitch. Oberon is whistling in appreciation.

Erin: [whisper] Wow.

Jeff: Returning to camp riding on the high of winning your first reward challenge as a new tribe is definitely a good way to restart the game with new people. It’ll give you guys momentum and motivation. Which makes this challenge a very important one. We’ll get started.

Soon, everyone is geared up and raring to go.

Jeff: First two reps going up are Oberon for Las Tortugas, taking on Erin for Los Lagartos!

Darnell: Yeah, go Erin! Don’t let him intimidate you!

Mitzi: You’re gonna do great, girl!

Mitch: You can do this, Oberon!

Callum: Kick ass, man.

Jeff: Survivors ready? Go!

The first round kicks into action as Oberon and Erin both take off in separate directions, flipping drums over as they go. Both Oberon and Erin keep pace with each other, until eventually Oberon beats Erin by a split second.

The next match-up pits Ingrid against Penny, and while both ladies are not the fastest runners, Penny screws up and accidentally flips over the wrong disc, causing Ingrid to lap the latter, eliciting groans of disappointment from the new Los Lagartos tribe.

Penny wearily trots back to her tribe, covered in sand and slumped over with disappointment.

Penny: Sorry. I tried.

Mitzi: It’s okay. Don’t worry about it.

Over on Las Tortugas 2.0, the boys are patting Ingrid on the back and cheering. Callum is especially the loudest, practically roaring with celebration.

Brett: Good job, Ingrid.

Mitch: Yes, very well done.

The third round consists of Brett taking on Darnell.

Jeff: If Brett wins this, Las Tortugas wins reward and that will be the end of it. Will this challenge be a complete blowout? Survivors ready! Go!

Brett and Darnell both charge in opposite directions, narrowly crashing into each other at the second hoop. Both men run around in circles for a while, but it is clear Brett is gaining speed and is just ahead of Darnell, until finally, the latter loses speed. Brett springs over to score the third and final point for Las Tortugas.

Jeff: Las Tortugas wins reward!

Brett throws his hands in the air, laughing as he joins the others of Las Tortugas for a big group hug. Darnell runs a hand through his hair, sweating profusely as he rejoins Los Lagartos. The others are reassuring him that there was nothing they could do.

Terrence: You did your best, man, no worries. We would’ve lost anyway.

Mitzi: That was an easy victory. Their tribe’s too strong.

Darnell: That’s not very reassuring for the future.

Jeff: In one of the quickest victories yet, Las Tortugas, when you return to your new camp, you’ll find all of Las Caimanes’ rewards back there waiting for you. For Brett, Callum and Peter, good news for you…it’ll be as if you’re bringing your whole camp with you to your new one.

Callum: Alright.

Jeff: Los Lagartos, unfortunately, nothing for you.

Yvonne: It’s not an easy situation, Jeff.

Aisha: Their tribe’s got a lot of strong people. Odds aren’t in our favor.

Jeff: [shrugs] You’ll just have to learn to adapt. Hopefully this doesn’t signify a losing streak in the future. Grab your stuff, head back to camp and get to know your new tribemates. This game has changed yet again.

The new Los Lagartos tribe returns to their camp, as Mitzi leads the way with Terrence and Aisha in tow, setting her belongings down by her usual spot in the shelter.

Mitzi: Welcome to Casa de Lagartos. Make yourselves at home, guys.

"loslagartos"

- I know that starting afresh with a new tribe, I need to work on being more sociable, more pleasant to be around. Ingrid and Oberon, my two main targets back on my original tribe, are safe on the other beach. But their soldier, Terrence, is still here. I have my own soldier in Aisha and I’ve got a lot of work to do to pull some of these new people onto my side.

Terrence: So how were your shelters different from ours?

Yvonne: Well, we had a sort of roof thingy here where we set up a makeshift tarp using the palm fronds and we…

Yvonne trails off as she mimics how the old Las Caimanes tribe had constructed their shelter. The girls and Darnell are shaking hands and sharing introductions.

Darnell: Darnell. Nice to meet you.

Erin: Nice to meet you, Darnell, I’m Erin.

Penny: I’m Penny.

Erin: I’m impressed that you two survived to the swap on an unlucky tribe. That’s no easy feat.

Erin is talking enthusiastically with Penny, as Aisha stands alongside them, quiet. Darnell watches them.

"loslagartos"

- This tribe swap does introduce a new dynamic. Now, me and Penny are the only two from Las Tortugas here, with three original Los Lagartos and two original Las Caimanes. Doing what I do in poker, I’m trained to be observant, and just by watching the body language and the way they address him, I can tell Mitzi and Aisha have something against Terrence. Those three are not tight, so that provides me with a fracture among the trio that I can exploit. And I know from watching the Las Caimanes tribal the other night that Erin and Yvonne are against each other. That’s a lot of information already presented before me and I plan to make use of it to my advantage.

Darnell catches Terrence out in the pond later, by a cluster of rocks. Terrence is crouched by the bank, scrubbing the soles of his shoes. Darnell is wading in the water, enjoying the soak.

Darnell: So, what’s the beef between you, Mitzi and Aisha?

Terrence: She told you?

Darnell: Eh, I made a guess. She doesn’t seem to like you very much.

Terrence: Naw…she actually treats me fine. It’s Oberon and Ingrid who she really has a beef against. So it’s guilt by association.

Darnell: What happened?

Terrence: It was a whole load of stupid stuff, really. Oberon caught her finding the idol. And Ingrid used to be tight with Mitzi until she betrayed her. Mitzi played the idol and sent Aidan home. It was me, Oberon and Ingrid against the pair of them for a while.

Darnell: And your buddies left you for the other tribe and you’re stuck here…?

Terrence: [laughs] With Mitzi, yes. Aisha’s just her pet right now.

"loslagartos"

- It’s surprising how much information someone can reveal without even realizing it. Terrence told me a lot of value. And it’s really helpful in telling me what I need to know to survive on this new tribe. Mitzi wants Terrence out and she has Aisha following her. Terrence will want her out too, and he has allies on the other tribe, allies he might be able to pull over at the merge.

Darnell: So what’s your plan? You’re stuck on this tribe with her. She’s going to come after you, most likely, unless another target presents itself.

Terrence: What do you propose?

Darnell: I want to stay safe just as you do. You have allies on the other tribe, so do I. We keep each other alive, and we come together at the merge. You want Mitzi gone? I’ll try to make it happen.

"loslagartos"

- I bonded pretty quickly with Terrence from the get-go since we’re the only two guys on the tribe, so now we’re aligned. He misses his no. 1 ally in Oberon, so I’m banking on that. I’m hitting this beach running because the game’s basically started all over again with these three new tribes.

Terrence: Deal.

They quickly shake hands.

"loslagartos"

- [laughs] Uh...what the hell. Barely 10 hours ago, I was in a good position on my tribe, part of a majority alliance and we were set to take out Mitzi at our very next tribal. I anticipated the swap, of course, but I really was hoping for what happened today not to have happened. 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.

Terrence: Who else do you think…would be solid people to align with? We’re gonna need a bigger group to move forward.

Darnell: I was thinking…Yvonne.

Terrence: Which one is she again? Oh, the older woman. Why her?

Darnell: I watched their tribal council the other night. She’s on the bottom, so she knew she needed this swap. She was counting on it. So she’s desperate for new allies and we can provide her that. She’ll definitely stay loyal.

Terrence: Alright, cool.

"loslagartos"

- I know the smart thing to do would be to stick with my original tribe for numbers at the merge. That’s how it usually goes. But the thing is, our tribe was very clearly divided. It was always me, Oberon and Ingrid against Aisha and Mitzi. We would never work together. It was obvious Mitzi was counting on a swap to get away from us. So in this case, it is smarter to find a new alliance and go after Mitzi. I know Mitzi’s probably trying to snatch up allies to keep her safe and go against me. So I need to do the same. I need to be safe and reunite with Oberon and Ingrid at the merge.

Darnell pulls Yvonne over at the edge of the forest to talk.

Darnell: Hey, Yvonne.

Yvonne: Darnell. What’s up?

Darnell: I know you were on the bottom of your original tribe. Is Erin still mad at you for that vote?

Yvonne: Tell me about it. It’s understandable. She doesn’t trust me anymore.

Darnell: Will she come after you if we go to tribal?

Yvonne: Probably.

Darnell: You’re not the only one with bad blood on this tribe. Mitzi and Aisha are targeting Terrence too. He was in the majority on his first tribe; now the swap’s put him in the minority.

Yvonne: What are you suggesting?

Darnell: You, me and him – in an alliance. Deal?

Yvonne: Deal. Thank goodness for you. I needed an alliance badly, this swap came at the perfect timing. I would not have survived another tribal on Las Caimanes.

"loslagartos"

- The most perfect thing that could have happened happened. Darnell comes up and tells me, Terrence is on the bottom with Mitzi and Aisha. He’s not with them. So if me, him and Darnell come together, we can go after Terrence’s targets in Mitzi and Aisha, and my target in Erin. I know Erin doesn’t want to work with me anymore, not after I cast a vote against her. All we need is Penny and the three of us will be in the majority.

Darnell, Yvonne and Terrence are talking by the well, away from the others.

Darnell: So here's what I propose. The three of us - one member from each original tribe - together.

Yvonne: I love this. Can I just tell you boys how much I love this? I love this so much, thank you. I was screwed on my other tribe.

Terrence: Oh yeah?

Yvonne: Yes. I was the oldest woman there and they were all young guys. Erin very quickly disbanded the girls' alliance that Nat made and I was the only one not in on her voteout last night. So I know they would've got rid of me. This swap literally saved my life. I was on the verge of getting voted off.

Terrence: Let me tell you, this swap really jeopardized my game too.

Darnell: Oh yeah? How so?

Terrence: It's like I said. Mitzi and Aisha; they're not working with me. They're not. Just...yeah. They were on the bottom of the tribe, and now I'm stuck with them. My only other allies left me for the other tribe.

Yvonne: Who? Oh, Oberon and...Ingrid?

Terrence: Yeah, them.

Darnell: Well, as long as we three stick together, we'll be safe through this swap and we'll all make it to the merge.

Yvonne, Darnell and Terrence all lay their hands on top of each other’s and throw them up in the air in a cheesy half-hearted cheer.

Yvonne: We’re still gonna need four for us to have the majority.

Terrence: What about that other girl, the one on your tribe? Erin? Could you reel her in?

Yvonne: Absolutely not. [laughs] I voted against her, so there’s not a love connection there.

Darnell: How about my girl Penny? I could try to get her on board as her fourth but as far as we’re concerned, it’s the three of us and nothing’s breaking that up.

Terrence: Gotcha.

"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. And if Darnell can be trusted, he, Yvonne and either Penny or Erin will keep me safe from the wrath of Mitzi and Aisha until I get to the merge and reunite with Oberon and Ingrid.

In the meantime, Penny and Erin are down by the beach, messing around with seashells, talking.

Erin: So who was that guy who kissed you goodbye?

Penny: [blushing] Oh, hush. That was Elmer.

Erin: You guys are pretty tight?

Penny sweeps her hair away from her face, turning to look Erin in the eyes.

Penny: Eh, well, you know. Fourteen or so days out here, a girl gets lonely.

The two laugh.

Penny: It’s nothing serious. As far as I’m concerned, I’m still playing a game – just so you know. I don’t want my relationship with him to…I guess, hurt my game, you know?

Erin: I get you, girl. Don’t worry. I’ve got my own hunk waiting for me on the other tribe.

Penny: Which one? The one with the cap?

Erin: Brett.

Penny: Ah.

Erin: Some of the guys aren’t bad looking either. You see Terrence? He seems really sweet, and he’s kinda cute.

Terrence is shown getting out of the ocean in nothing but shorts. Erin and Penny are watching him from up the beach.

Penny nudges Erin slightly.

Penny: Oh, gosh.

Erin: He is! Come on.

"loslagartos"

- I actually have grown to love hanging out with Erin. From the moment we met, I just got the sense that she was just really cool and really fun to talk to. I can see the two of us having a couple margaritas on a Saturday night once this game is over because she gets me, she can relate to, you know, wanting some time alone, as girls. I love Elmer, but it was getting tiring having nothing but testosterone around me for the past week or so after Wilkes left. I needed to have some girl talk again and me and Erin just hit it off pretty quickly.

Penny: So how were things like on your tribe?

Erin grimaces.

Erin: Well, after two weeks or so of relative peace, you know, it starts to get a little dry. I mean, I'm not complaining about the relative safety, but after a while it reached a point where we were all like, 'when do we get to play the game?' It was more of a camping trip than actual Survivor.

Penny: And last night?

Erin: Oh yeah, that's right, you and Darnell were there, weren't you? Well, you saw what happened. Natalia felt threatened because I had relationships with the men, specifically Brett. It didn't work out for her. What about you? Your tribe had a rough first week.

Penny: Oh, jeez, I know. It was just this chick called Wilkes. She made us the dysfunctional tribe that we were. Cindy wasn't so bad, albeit a little annoying. We got rid of her first to keep the target off me.

Erin: So...you must be pretty close with the guys on your original tribe?

Penny: Only really Elmer, I guess. He's just a sweetheart.

Erin: Very hunky too, I noticed.

Penny: So is Brett.

Erin smiles.

"loslagartos"

- Now that I’m on the new Los Lagartos tribe, I know I’m low hanging fruit. On paper, this does not look good for me because for starters, I started off on the most successful of the three tribes. While on Las Caimanes, I avoided tribal the longest of everyone here, along with Yvonne. Now that the tribes have been shuffled, I’m on a tribe that is physically weaker. It’s just the truth of it. The other tribe is a lot stronger than us in challenges, they destroyed us earlier today. So I know the odds are high that we’re going to tribal after the next immunity, and if that happens, just having started on the most successful of the three tribes could spell trouble for me. So I need new allies. I’m on the bottom of the totem pole and I don’t trust Yvonne. She’s probably coming after me quick to get payback for Natalia. I’m going to need to get in with a new alliance, and fast. Everyone knows Penny is emotionally fragile. She was crying earlier today, she was terrible in the previous challenges. A girl like her should be easy to pull over to my side. Just offer a few comforting words, compliment her hair, drown her in flattery, kill her with kindness. [shrugs] I’m golden. It’s time to show my manipulative side.

Meanwhile, back at the Las Tortugas camp, the new Las Tortugas tribe has arrived and are settling in as Mitch and Elmer show them around the shelter. Everyone is all smiles and shaking hands, introducing one another.

Mitch: So what went down on your tribe? How were things like?

Ingrid: Um…I’d like to say it was peachy but…it really isn’t. There’s this chick named Mitzi who is literally the craziest, most psychotic person I’ve ever had the misfortune to meet.

Mitch: Wow. That bad huh?

Ingrid: I’m not even kidding. Oberon agrees. Right?

Oberon: Oh, yeah.

Peter: On a scale of 1-10, how off the rails is she?

Ingrid: [pausing to think on it] 10. [laughs] She’s a madwoman.

Callum: Why didn’t you vote her ass off then?

Ingrid: Oh, she found an idol.

Elmer: Wow.

Callum whistles.

Brett: And how were things for you guys? You guys…er…didn’t seem to do very well those first few days.

Mitch: Oh, yeah, we sucked big time. [laughs] We kind of had a chick that sounds like your Mitzi.

Ingrid: The one with all the tattoos?

Callum: Yo, that chick looked like she had issues, I’m glad we don’t have to deal with her. [laughs]

"lastortugas"

- So we get back to camp, and we’re still on the same beach. And everyone’s still getting to know one another, we’re all shaking hands and smiles and pleasant greetings, yada yada yada. But not everyone is getting along and some of these people aren’t making a very good first impression on me.

Callum: I love your shelter!

Callum jumps into the shelther and kicks his shoes off, lazing back languorously.

Callum: This place is nice. With the rewards we took from our camp, this’ll look just like home again.

"lastortugas"

- And it’s just…I cannot stand some of these guys. Callum and Peter especially get on my nerves. This is my camp! I built the shelter with my own bare hands at the start of this game and they’re tramping around the place, tossing my belongings aside. They have no respect for anyone but themselves. That arrogance, that egoism – it’s stifling.

Peter is shown roaring with laughter, sitting on a log by the fire with Callum as the other lets out a loud burp. Ingrid is sitting in the shelter, her chin resting on her knees, recoiling in distaste. Elmer shakes his head, casting Mitch an unhappy glance from where the two are sitting.

Elmer: What do you think?

Mitch: Well, I'm not sure if it's an improvement from the last camp. We definitely seem to be much stronger, physically, but...

Elmer: You know we need to secure the numbers.

Mitch: Yes, yes, I know.

Elmer: So, what say you I try to pull in the pair from Los Lagartos?

Mitch: That's fine by me.

Elmer: Good.

"lastortugas"

- It's just me and Mitch now. I think the bright side of all this is that I'm part of a very physically adept tribe. These three guys from Las Caimanes, no matter how nauseating, are very strong physical players. So we should be able to avoid tribal easily, and that's great, cos I've enjoyed not having to go back after our first two disastrous visits. With Mitch on my side, I know we need to have the numbers. You only need four people for this vote to succeed, and that makes things simple. Just have the two pairs of people from both Las Tortugas and Los Lagartos team up, and we can make our selection of either Callum or Peter to send home first.

Oberon swings from the hammock, watching the group and picking at his teeth. Ingrid heads over and nudges him.

Ingrid: Your thoughts?

Oberon: What do you mean?

Ingrid: What do you think of the tribe so far?

Oberon thinks it over, watching Peter and Callum silently as he sways to and fro on the hammock.

Oberon: Peter's very cocky. He's got an arrogance to him. Callum's very languid, laidback, almost a little contemptuous.

Ingrid: Yeah...that comment Peter made today about women. It's kinda pissing me off.

Oberon: We won't work with them then.

Ingrid: There is a strategy in working with the more unpleasant people because you really think those two have it in them to win people over with their social games?

Oberon: I think Peter seems strategic enough. Callum, I'm not too sure. Brett seems to be the man in charge.

Ingrid: What about the men from Las Tortugas?

Oberon: I like Elmer. He seems okay. Mitch kind of gives off the father vibe to me.

Ingrid: Yeah, that's my read on him too.

Oberon: Whatever happens, we just stick together and we'll get through it. Easy few tribals and then we're at the merge.

Ingrid: Yeah...

Oberon: Besides, we do have the stronger tribe. And silver lining is - no Mitzi.

Ingrid laughs triumphantly.

Ingrid: It is such a relief to be free of her, she was a total dead weight. She sucked the fun out of camp at times. I'm so glad we no longer have to deal with that...cancer...on our tribe.

Oberon: It really sucks for Terrence though.

Ingrid: It does, yeah.

"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. I can't stand either of them. Callum treats it all like one big joke. And Peter's just trash. The two of them are like Brett's soldiers, right now. But the good news is, I'm free of Mitzi. You cannot imagine how happy I was to see Mitzi and I draw different buffs. Finally! And if I'm lucky, the people on her new tribe will see sense and get rid of her so I won't have to deal with that walking mess at the merge. It really stinks for Terrence though because now he's stuck with both Mitzi and her sidekick Aisha and those two girls will definitely go after him. I feel bad for the poor boy but he's going to have to fend for himself now.

Ingrid: I might go talk with Elmer later to try and see where his head's at. I think we could work with them.

Oberon: Cool. As long as it gets us the numbers.

Day 14
Morning dawns on the new Los Lagartos camp. Yvonne is rolling over, blinking her eyes open groggily, as Mitzi tramps throughout the firepit, her hair and clothes a mess from the night before.

Mitzi: Wake up, bitches. [laughs] Food's ready.

Erin: [yawn] Nice.

Yvonne folds her arms, looking tired and annoyed.

"loslagartos"

- This chick Mitzi is…urgh [rolls eyes] I can’t stand her. I thought Natalia was crazy! [laughs] Mitzi could give Nat a run for her money. She’s always grouchy and grumpy and bitching about one thing or another, this woman has literally no social skills. I can’t stand her. I think she’s psychotic.

Mitzi is shown nudging Aisha; the two women giggling and gossiping amongst themselves in conspiratorial voices, watching as Yvonne slowly pulls herself out of bed to stumble down to the shore. She casts a look over her shoulder at them, causing the two to whisper back and forth with increased vigor and mischievous smirks.

Yvonne joins Terrence and Darnell in the water. Terrence is stretching, scratching his back idly. Darnell is on his knees, working on washing the dishes.

Yvonne: Is Mitzi always like this?

Terrence: Like what?

Yvonne: Rude.

Terrence: She was worse when Oberon, Ingrid and Aisha were still at camp. The way she railed into Ingrid after the latter's betrayal...whew, I have no words.

Yvonne: I don't like her. At all. She has a terrible social game.

Darnell: If you want, we could take her out.

Yvonne: That is what I want. I'll talk to Erin and try to pull her in.

Terrence: I would love for Mitzi to go. Because I'm pretty sure she will come after me for what went down on Los Lagartos before.

Darnell: Well, we've got your back, bro. We'll get her before she gets you. I'll talk to Penny as well. I think Mitzi resembles Wilkes enough that she wouldn't be against the idea.

Mitzi is watching the Trinity Alliance down by the beach, a shrewd expression on her face. She whispers to Aisha.

Mitzi: Have you noticed Terrence seems to have gotten very buddy-buddy with Darnell and Yvonne?

Aisha: Hm? Has he?

Mitzi: Yes. He has.

"loslagartos"

- I give Terrence credit where it's due. I think we both know we're going after each other this next tribal. So he's going on the offensive and gathering new allies. Yvonne clearly doesn't like me. That's two potential votes coming my way. I need to gather my own forces and strike back.

Mitzi is talking with Aisha as they take a walk.

Mitzi: I don't think Yvonne likes me very much.

Aisha: No?

Mitzi: No. You can see it in her eyes.

"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 in this game and so I don’t intend on squandering this opportunity. 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!

Aisha: So what’s the plan?

Mitzi: Here’s the thing. Erin and Yvonne aren’t sticking together for numbers.

Aisha: Okay…

Mitzi: They’re not. I’m not too sure about how close Penny and Darnell are but I saw Penny and Erin by the beach, they seem to have hit it off pretty quickly. Here’s what I propose. A girls’ alliance. We bring in Erin and Penny, and we're good.

Aisha: This is crazy. I’m down.

Mitzi: I know! It’s like everything’s changed overnight.

"loslagartos"

- Survivor is a game that changes very quickly. One tribe swap has completely changed my fate in this game. Yesterday I was on the bottom of my tribe, one loss away from going home. Now, I have a potential all-females’ alliance in the works. It’s amazing [laughs]. I truly believe my luck has taken a turn for the better, and it’s exciting to feel like I can play this game again with a new beginning. If Erin and Penny have clicked and are both willing to jump on board with me, we can put Terrence, Yvonne and Darnell in the majority. Penny can rope in Darnell if she wants to but I know I want Terrence out, and Erin wants Yvonne out. If this alliance works, we can just pick whomever we want to kick out first. 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. It would be glorious.

Mitzi pulls Erin aside at the shelter.

Mitzi: Erin, what would you say in response to a potential girls' alliance?

Erin: A girls' alliance? With who, all the girls?

Mitzi: I know you're not close with Yvonne, so how about every other girl except her?

Erin: I'm down. [laughs] I'm being serious. I'm down for it. What other options do I have? Yvonne isn't working with me, so I need new allies. I'm a free agent. Is Penny on board? I could get her on board, I think we have a decent enough relationship.

Mitzi: Penny is down. So it's you, me, Aisha and Penny. If Penny can convince him, Darnell will just be our fifth vote. I want Terrence gone.

Erin: I want Yvonne gone.

Mitzi: We can pick them off one after the other.

Erin: Done deal.

They quickly give each other a firm but brief handshake, turning away quickly to avoid being seen together.

Mitzi: I want to talk to Penny...to try to get her in on the plan.

Erin: Yeah, we should do that.

As Mitzi conspires against Terrence, on the Las Tortugas camp, Ingrid is glowering. She stands by the fire, playing with a twig, glaring daggers at Callum and Peter, both of whom have just gotten out of bed. Callum is digging his nose and brushing pieces of dead skin off his foot, visibly disgusting Ingrid. Peter slurps up the rest of his rice, burping loudly as he does so.

"lastortugas"

- Callum and Peter strike me as a bit of a sleazeball, both of them. I just don’t like them. Callum’s boisterous and cocky and thinks he knows everything. Peter’s scheming and misogynistic and he acts like he’s the best thing around since sliced bread. It's only taken a couple of days for them both to seriously get on my nerves.

Ingrid pulls Oberon aside to talk down the beach.

Ingrid: I don’t like the guys.

Oberon: Who?

Ingrid: Callum and fricking Peter. They’re really getting on my nerves.

Oberon: Yeah…I can tell. Don’t let them get to you.

He squeezes her shoulder reassuringly.

Oberon: At least it’s not Mitzi.

Ingrid: True. I say if it comes down to it, we swing with the Las Tortugas men. I like them. Elmer’s a gentleman. Mitch is a father. I don’t like the guys from Las Caimanes.

"lastortugas"

- Ingrid isn’t fond of the two guys from Las Caimanes: Callum and Peter. It’s true, they’re both arrogant…condescending…It would be nice to see their egos get kicked to the curb if they don’t even make it to the merge.

Ingrid: I’d love to see the look on their faces if we go to tribal and send one of them home.

Brett is coming back into camp. Turning to look out across the horizon, he sees Ingrid and Oberon walking down the beach, talking with their heads bent together. A look of worry crosses his handsome features.

"lastortugas"

- Starting out on a new tribe, I lose my main ally Erin to the other beach. But I still have my guys, Callum and Peter. Unfortunately, those two are not really helping me out right now. 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.

Brett, Peter and Callum all rendezvous by the well to have a discussion.

Brett: Elmer and Mitch are really threatening.

Callum: Do tell.

Peter: It's obvious. Elmer's very charismatic. Easily. He's going to be way too dangerous to deal with once the merge comes. Mitch is a father, and an entrepreneur. Family man, loves his kids - he's got a great story if he makes it to the end.

Brett: Right now, it’s us against them. We need the Los Lagartos pair to swing with us against the two of them from Las Tortugas.

Callum: Why don’t we just try and get Elmer and Mitch on our side?

Brett: They’re too threatening. I don’t want to work with those two. Ingrid, I think we could work on a little more. Oberon does whatever she wants to do.

"lastortugas"

- Right now, it’s basically a tug-of-war between us three from Las Caimanes and the two guys from Las Tortugas, Elmer and Mitch. It’s a battle of two alliances of men and we’re trying to secure the two key swing votes in Ingrid and Oberon from Los Lagartos. I think Peter kind of annoys Ingrid a little, so that doesn’t work in my favor. But I am threatened by Elmer and so I don’t want to have to work with them. We’re setting our sights on trying to pull Ingrid and Oberon over. It’s our only hope of lasting through this swap.

Peter: I think Elmer’s annoyed at us. Ingrid too.

Callum cackles.

Callum: I don’t care.

Brett: You have to care. We need Ingrid on our side. Both Ingrid and Oberon. If we go to tribal, we’re done for.

Callum: Alright, get off my case. I’ll tone down the rambunctious jokes.

Peter: Hm. Surprised you even knew that word.

"lastortugas"

- Peter is worried that the two of us, namely my behavior, is starting to annoy some of our new tribemates. I don’t care. I mean, I annoyed the hell out of Natalia and we still came out on top and sent her ass out of the game. But yes, I see his point. The three of us from Las Caimanes; if Ingrid and Oberon join up with the two men from Las Tortugas; then we’re done for. So, I guess I have to act a little more civil. [shrugs] I can tone it down. I can be mature. [laughs] Ingrid seems a little too prim and proper for me, but hey. I like being a joker. I like acting like a clown. I’m a free spirit, and I like living my life that way. I don't see why I have to change who I am to appeal to these losers.

"lastortugas"

- What I'm worried about is that this swap has put me and the boys in a bad spot. Ingrid is a very...mature woman, I would say. She doesn't take kindly to Callum's jokes or the boisterous attitudes we exhibit around camp. That's just how me and Callum have always acted in the first two weeks. Yvonne didn't object to it much, Erin never seemed to care - which is why she was always cool. Natalia thought we were annoying, specifically Callum, and yet she still wanted to work with us. So I guess that after two weeks of having the freedom to act that way, suddenly being thrust into a tribe full of different people with different attitudes and views towards life...it won't be as easy trying to adjust our behaviors so we don't piss people off. Because now, on a tribe of seven, it only takes four to have the majority. And that would leave a convenient three people in the minority. If the two people from Las Tortugas align with the two people from Los Lagartos, that's it. We're done. Las Caimanes is screwed. I will admit, it makes more strategic sense for Ingrid and Oberon to align with the two from Las Tortugas because they have fewer members than we do. Las Tortugas has four remaining members, Las Caimanes has five. And Callum hasn’t been helping matters. Ingrid dislikes him, it’s obvious. She probably isn’t my biggest fan either. We’re walking on eggshells here. Las Caimanes was a very boyish camp but here, even with six boys outnumbering one girl, that one girl holds the most power. Oberon is following Ingrid, and both Elmer and Mitch are ‘perfect’ gentlemen towards her. We can’t let her decide too quickly to go with them. Brett, Callum and I have to do everything in our power to obtain her crucial swing vote, or our games are done right here, right now. We’ll never survive the swap and we’ll never make it to the merge.

Returning to the Los Lagartos camp, Erin takes a seat next to Yvonne in the shelter, trying to have a conversation with the latter.

Erin: So...Yvonne, tell me...are you thinking…we stick together for the numbers?

Yvonne looks out at sea, not answering. She eventually shrugs, turning to look Erin in the eye.

Yvonne: I don’t know, Erin. Seems like there’s a lot up in the air.

Erin raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Erin: I just thought to ask...because I know you hold a grudge about the other night's vote, and-

Yvonne: I don't hold a grudge at all, Erin. It's you who's holding a grudge.

Erin shakes her head, befuddled.

Erin: Yvonne, I don't hold a grudge. If you want to stick together for the numbers, I'll do it. I can work with anyone in this game, and I was hoping you would be down for that.

Yvonne: Well...I'm not turning down that option.

Erin: Alright, well...are we good?

Yvonne: Sure. We should talk about the vote a bit more if we lose the challenge.

Erin narrows her eyes.

"loslagartos"

- I had a conversation with Yvonne earlier, and her answers were not very reassuring. As a way of testing her, to try and get a sense of where her head's at, I asked if she wanted us to stick together for the numbers, since we’re both from Las Caimanes, and I thought we were meant to be Las Caimanes to the end. But she clearly does not want that. The two girls and Terrence from Los Lagartos turned on each other almost immediately. I guess the same applies for me and Yvonne. It looks like this is an individual game now, because Yvonne isn’t working with me. And if she wants to give me the cold shoulder like that, by all means. It’s her funeral. I’m going to get rid of her first.

Erin is lying next to Penny in the shelter, both women on their backs, staring up at the bamboo ceiling, talking in whispers. Erin checks to make sure that no one is close by before starting a conversation. Terrence is off tending to the fire, with Aisha hovering over him. Mitzi is down by the shore, getting out of the water. Yvonne is messing around in the sand, chilling. Darnell is nowhere to be found, presumably off getting coconuts.

Erin nudges Penny.

Erin: So, Penny, listen…here’s the plan.

Penny: Oh yeah?

Erin: You, me, Mitzi and Aisha. [numbers the four women off on her fingers] That’s four. Us four girls, take out either Yvonne or Terrence at the next tribal. And then we’re solid. Two tribals later, we’ll be in the merge.

Penny: This is an alliance?

Erin: All girls’ alliance. We’re set.

"loslagartos"

- I have friends on the other tribe I can pull over at the merge. Brett, Peter and Callum are still with me after the Natalia voteoff. If my girls’ alliance here can meet up with the guys at the merge, we’ll have a solid majority alliance. Which means us girls are going to have to band together on this new tribe and pick off the stragglers. My target in Yvonne and Mitzi’s target in Terrence – they’re not gonna last. The two of them don’t know it yet but they’re gonna be taken out one after the other.

Penny: What about Darnell?

Erin: He can be our fifth. And then we’ll all come together in the merge, and we’ll be cool.

Penny: I like it.

Erin: I was hoping you would.

Penny: So, you want Yvonne gone because of…what happened the other night?

Erin: Yes. And Mitzi wants Terrence gone because of whatever went down on the original Los Lagartos.

Penny: And if we rope Darnell in, it’ll be…?

Erin: 5-2. They don’t stand a chance.

"loslagartos"

- I like the idea of a girls’ alliance with Erin, Mitzi and Aisha. Erin and I bonded really quickly, so I like her. Mitzi has been playing up a big sister role with me, and Aisha, I click with as well, I think she’s a funny gal. I don’t really feel much of a connection with Yvonne so I wouldn't mind seeing her go.

Penny: Terrence is kind of cute though, isn’t he? I mean, a lot of the guys are, but-

Erin: Darnell’s coming, just act casual.

Darnell walks up.

Darnell: Hey girls.

He gets into the shelter.

Penny: Hey Darnell.

Erin: What’s up?

"loslagartos"

- Provided Penny is with us, I think we girls could have a really good thing going for us here. We get rid of either Yvonne or Terrence next, then the other in three more days, and then we solidify our alliance and head into the merge to reunite with Brett and the other boys. Majority alliance in the works. I’m always thinking ahead, and this seems fullproof to me.

Day 15
Jeff: Come on in guys!

Dramatic music plays as the two new tribes trudge in. Los Lagartos arrives first, with Las Tortugas right behind, Brett toting the new pink flag with pride.

Jeff: Alright, you guys ready to get to today's challenge? First things first, I'll take back the idols. From now on, only one idol will be in play, not two. For today's challenge, you will race out in three pairs to transport a sleigh of heavy rice-filled pots through a series of obstacles. Once through the obstacles, you must then place the pots in a series of stands. Once all the stands are filled, the remaining castaway will use a wrecking ball to smash the pots. First tribe to knock all their pots off wins immunity. Worth playing for? We'll get started.

Everyone is stationed on their new mats.

Jeff: Survivors ready? Go!

Elmer and Peter are the first two off for Las Tortugas, with Darnell and Mitzi heading out for Los Lagartos.

Jeff: Elmer and Peter flying ahead, almost immediately kicking off before Darnell and Mitzi! Putting a lot of distance between them!

Elmer and Peter are racing through the obstacle course, the sleigh of pots sliding along behind them at breakneck speed. Darnell and Mitzi both keep pace with one another but are still nowhere near catching up to Elmer and Peter.

Jeff: Elmer and Peter have their pots placed, and heading back! Darnell and Mitzi have just arrived!

Elmer and Peter return, and Brett and Ingrid are up next. As the unlikely pair traverse their obstacle course, Brett stopping every now and then to give Ingrid encouragement, Darnell and Mitzi are heading back, determination to win etched in the lines of Mitzi's face.

Jeff: Darnell and Mitzi are back! Go!

Penny and Aisha tag out next as the two ladies head out onto the course. Las Tortugas further extends their lead as Brett and Ingrid arrive at the end of their course and start placing their pots, just as Penny and Aisha set out.

Jeff: Brett and Ingrid are done and are racing back, passing Penny and Aisha!

Penny and Aisha are trudging through the course at a maddeningly slow pace. Penny is panting, chest heaving, and Aisha wipes a grimy hand across her forehead, looking ill with irritation.

Mitzi: Come on girls! Go!

Jeff: Brett and Ingrid have returned! Callum and Mitch now heading out for their third and final trip through the obstacle course!

Callum: Go, go, go!

Brett: You're doing great, guys. You're going to overtake them.

Jeff: Callum and Mitch, gaining on Penny and Aisha!

Penny and Aisha have only just now reached the end of their course. Penny rushes to put the pots up, Aisha putting her hands on her knees and bending over, wheezing. Callum watches the pair, a glint in his eyes, as he drags the sleigh (and Mitch) alongside him, reaching the end of their own course.

Jeff: Callum and Mitch have lapped Penny and Aisha! Both teams now heading back! Will we see another repeat of the reward challenge, which was an absolute disaster for the new Los Lagartos tribe! Will this be another blowout victory for the self-proclaimed, physically superior Las Tortugas tribe?

Mitzi: [whisper] If they win this, I'm going to puke.

Yvonne rolls her eyes. Darnell folds his arms, displeased.

Mitzi: Could those guys get any cockier?

Callum: Nailed it.

Jeff: Callum and Mitch are back! Las Tortugas, you're good to go, start knocking those pots down!

Oberon - who is on pot-smashing duty - steps up to the plate, grabbing the wrecking ball and focusing on aiming it in a specific direction.

Jeff: Oberon with a huge headstart for the new Las Tortugas tribe. Penny and Aisha - only now returning. Yvonne and Terrence heading out for the third and final time, but can they catch up, or is it pointless?

Terrence charges forward, practically lugging Yvonne behind him, desperate to make up for lost time.

Oberon takes aim and swings the wrecking ball, knocking the first of six pots down on his first try. Brett and Callum whoop and cheer, clapping and shouting encouragement.

Callum: You got this, man, you got it in the bag!

Mitzi: Unbelievable. This sucks.

Aisha: I can't stand those guys.

Mitzi: Neither can I.

Darnell: Is there anyone you can't not stand, Mitzi?

Jeff: Terrence and Yvonne at the end of their course. Terrence, rushing to put the pots up. Yvonne is once again, exhausted.

Oberon swings and knocks down a second pot, and then a third, even before Terrence and Yvonne have made it back halfway.

Darnell: Don't give up, guys, come on! Anything can happen!

Penny: Gah, I don't wanna go back to tribal. I'm sorry guys, this is abysmal.

Mitzi: Shh, don't worry about it. No one blames you.

Jeff: Los Lagartos, finally back! Erin, you can start shooting. Erin has a lot of time to make up for the new Los Lagartos tribe. They are very far behind!

Erin and Oberon both fling their balls forward - each knock down one pot.

Jeff: It is Las Tortugas in the lead: 4 - 1. Will this be Las Tortugas' second blowout victory or will this be the biggest comeback win of the season so far?

Erin swings again and just narrowly nicks the edge of the second ball. She curses, and the others on Los Lagartos react similarly. Penny is white-faced and white-knuckled, clinging onto Aisha's shoulder, who is in turn clinging onto Terrence.

Jeff: Oberon knocking down another pot! He just needs one more! Erin only has one knocked down - make that two!

Erin knocks down her second pot, as Oberon takes aim for the furthest pot on the stands.

Callum: Steady, man, you got this, brother.

Jeff: Can he do it?

Oberon takes a swing...and the wrecking ball plows right through the sixth and final pot of rice, sending it smashing down to the dirt floor and spilling its contents all over.

Jeff: That is it! Las Tortugas - wins immunity, sending Los Lagartos to tribal council where somebody will be the fifth person voted out of Survivor: Cayman Islands!

Oberon pumps his hands in the air, running over to join his new tribe in a big hug. Callum is besides himself in glee, laughing and giving Oberon a friendly noogie. Even Ingrid lets Brett give her a large bear hug as he sweeps her off her feet. Darnell stomps his feet, kicking the grass in defeat. Terrence, Aisha and Penny all turn away, disappointed, and Mitzi merely scowls, hands on her hips, muttering incoherently to herself. Yvonne watches the celebrating Las Tortugas bitterly, looking wistful.

Jeff: Las Tortugas, congratulations. You predicted you'd be the stronger of the two tribes and so far, it has proven true. Enjoy the night off.

Brett: Thanks, Jeff.

Brett takes the idol and kisses it, handing it around so everyone gets to touch it.

Jeff: Los Lagartos, unfortunately, luck was not in your favor. Tonight, one of the seven of you will be the fifth person sent home. You have the afternoon to figure out who it's going to be. Grab your stuff, head back to camp. I'll see you at tribal council.

As they leave, the camera pans down and zooms in on Terrence, walking alongside Darnell.

"loslagartos"

- Man...this sucks! This tribe swap really was not in my favor because I end up one of the only two guys on a tribe that's going against one full of strong, athletic men. Our chances of winning a challenge are slim enough as it is. Worse still, I know Mitzi is gunning for me, which spells trouble. If I don't find some way to save myself tonight...I'm a goner.

Returning from the challenge, the new Los Lagartos tribe sets their belongings down, looking exhausted. A weary-looking Yvonne heads into the shelter to lie down and rest.

Yvonne: I’m sorry about today, guys. I’m just really tired, that’s all.

Mitzi: It’s fine, you just rest up. Don’t worry about it.

"loslagartos"

- Today's challenge was a disaster. A catastrophe. A disastrous catastrophe. A catastrophic disaster. We did awful. Penny, Aisha and Yvonne all notably slowed us down, but even so, the other tribe wiped the floor with us. And so we're now going back to tribal. Maybe this is a good thing though. If my alliance of girls stays true to me, we're sending Terrence home and I can exact my revenge on the whole lot of them on Los Lagartos who made me feel so on the bottom those last few days. And if something goes awry, I still have Aisha's idol. I feel confident that tonight, things will work out in my favor.

Mitzi is standing with Penny, watching as Aisha and Erin sit in the still waters of the pond. Erin is scrubbing the sand out of Aisha’s long hair.

Mitzi: So what’s the plan for tonight? Are we all still good on doing Terrence?

Penny: Terrence really pulled his weight in the challenge though. Speaking of which, I'm...I'm sorry I didn't do well.

Mitzi: It's fine Penny. I don't blame you and no one here does. It was something that couldn't be helped. Besides, I don't think we stood a chance from the beginning against the other tribe. Aisha: It's like David taking on Goliath.

Erin: You do know David defeated Goliath, right?

Aisha: You get the idea.

Erin: I wanted to say...Yvonne voted against me last tribal council. So, I want her gone.

"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.

Erin: She is of no help in challenges. She’s the weakest one on our tribe. She has to go so we can keep winning challenges.

Aisha: Good point.

Mitzi: What about Terrence? Are we not worried about what problems he may pose in the future? He's not loyal, he's not trustworthy, and he has allies on the other tribe, allies he could reunite with at the merge. He could cause trouble for us.

Erin: If we go to tribal again, I promise we will take him out next. We can keep Darnell as our fifth vote because he's under the radar for me. But I want Yvonne out first.

"loslagartos"

- See, I want Terrence gone because first of all, he and I were on opposing sides on our original tribe. He was Oberon and Ingrid’s ally and if I take him out, I’m dealing the pair of them a blow and giving them less allies at the merge. But I also need Erin on my side. And Erin has beef against Yvonne. If I have to get rid of Yvonne to ensure Erin stays happy and loyal to me, I’ll do it. Because Yvonne did do terrible in today’s challenge. We’re gonna need the guys to keep winning.

Mitzi: So let’s have the four of us – all on Yvonne?

Erin: I’m down.

Aisha: Deal.

Mitzi: Penny? You good with that?

Penny: Sure.

Mitzi: Alright, let's do it.

Later that afternoon, Darnell meets up with Penny in the forest to talk.

Darnell: So what's the buzz? What have you heard?

Penny: The girls are talking about doing Yvonne.

Darnell: Yvonne? Not Terrence?

Penny: No, not Terrence. Erin wants Yvonne, and Mitzi and Aisha changed the plan. They're on board. Are you?

Darnell: I don't know, Penny. Don't you think Mitzi seems to be a bit more of a...wild card?

Penny: I guess?

Darnell: Doesn't she remind you a bit of Wilkes?

Penny: Wilkes was a bitch. Mitzi's been relatively kind to me.

Darnell: Yeah, well, I'm not seeing that side of her. She hasn't been peachy around me. Point is, I think she's a firecracker. She's not loyal and she's not trustworthy. Haven't you heard Terrence's stories about her? The woman was a nightmare on Los Lagartos!

Penny: Yeah, but...I don't know.

Darnell: Tell me the truth. Are you siding with her because she's offered you an all-girls' alliance?

Penny: What? No! I just - I just feel she's been a lot nicer to me than what Terrence has made her out to sound like. She and Erin both.

Darnell runs a hand down his face.

Darnell: Penny, they're just using you.

Penny: How can you say that?

Darnell: Don't you see? Mitzi and Erin are just pandering to you so you'll vote with them. Mitzi's a hothead and Erin's a manipulator. They're being nice to you to get your vote to take out Yvonne.

"loslagartos"

- You know, I thought we had a solid plan. Take out Mitzi - and end the drama. She's a hothead. She's crazy, both from what I've observed and the stories Terrence has told. So better off without her. But she's worked her magic on Penny. She's reeled my girl Penny right into her clutches. Her and Erin. Mitzi and Erin have double-teamed Penny and now she is firmly locked into their web of lies and false flattery. This is not good for the Trinity Alliance because it's starting to look like we may be on the bottom.

Darnell is lying next to a tired Yvonne in the shelter, talking in hushed voices.

Darnell: Penny told me that the girls are voting for you.

Yvonne’s eyes narrow and she frowns.

Yvonne: Me? Not Terrence?

Darnell: No. Plan's changed. Mitzi was going after him but Erin changed the target onto you. She wants you out.

"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. But I still thought that even with my bad blood with Erin, I would be safe on this tribe, because as long as Terrence was still here, he’d be Mitzi’s and Aisha’s number one target. But apparently all that’s changed. Erin wants me gone and Mitzi is willing to change the plans to accommodate Erin’s wishes. 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.

Yvonne and Darnell beckon Penny over to join their conversation in the shelter.

Darnell: The plan tonight is Mitzi.

Penny: Oh?

Darnell: Yeah. Terrence is on board as well.

Yvonne: All four of us can send her home as long as you’re on board, Penny. Mitzi is a psychopath, she has to go. And she has Aisha tightly wedged in her pocket. It’s in everyone’s best interests for her to go home.

"loslagartos"

- I can't believe this is what it comes down to. My fate in this game rests in the hands of a dainty girl named Penny Hooper. I know Penny won't vote Erin. No, Erin already sunk her hooks into the dear girl. But maybe, just maybe, I can get her to vote off Mitzi.

The Trinity Alliance meet up right before tribal.

Darnell: The target isn't you anymore.

Terrence: No? Really?

Darnell: No. They're going after Yvonne. Erin's idea.

Yvonne: We have to counteract. Our only hope is Penny. Penny isn't going to vote off Erin, but she might vote off Mitzi.

Darnell: I'm doing everything I can to change her mind, Yvonne. Penny hated Wilkes, hated her to the core. Maybe if she sees how similar Mitzi is to Wilkes, she'll see sense.

Yvonne: Thank you Darnell. [laughs] Wouldn't it be ironic if this swap didn't save me, but screwed me instead?

Darnell: Don't talk like that. I refuse to give up on our alliance only two days after its' creation.

"loslagartos"

- Things have completely changed. One moment ago, I thought I was definitely Mitzi's target. Now, it's switched to Yvonne. Hey, I'm not complaining. Thank goodness for the mysterious grudge Erin holds against her. But this bodes trouble for my alliance. Are we really going to lose our first member already?

The sun is quickly setting. Penny watches as Mitzi chops open a coconut, sipping from it and sharing with Aisha. Yvonne is on the other side of the shelter, slowly putting her sneakers on and wearing her parka.

"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!

Mitzi comes up to Penny.

Mitzi: You good with tonight, Penny?

Penny: Y-Yeah...I think I'm good.

Mitzi: Alright.

She smiles.

Mitzi: This will work out great, Penny. Trust me.

"loslagartos"

- Tonight it's either Mitzi or Yvonne. I know the girls are deadset on getting Yvonne out - well, Erin is, anyway. And Darnell wants Mitzi out. He is my old tribemate and by rights, I should stick with him for the numbers. But I just don't know. Do I stick with my old tribemate in Darnell and trust his judgment? He's not wrong in saying Mitzi very much resembles Wilkes. Or do I go with these girls, these new alliances and relationships I've formed in the last two days? Erin's been sincere with me and I like her, and Aisha, and even Mitzi, to an extent. Yvonne has been slowing us down in challenges - though I can't really blame her for that, given where I'm coming from. I just don't know what to do. I can't make up my mind. Who do I side with? Who do I send home? This is such a different position for me, given where I was the last time I was preparing for tribal. I was on the chopping block, about to go home, fighting to stay alive. This time, I hold the fate of two different women in my hands, and I alone hold the power as to who to send home and who to keep around. And I'm at a loss. I may even end up making my decision only at tribal, and that's a very risky thing to do. This game is alive right now, and I'm right in the center of it all.

The sky rapidly turns dark, signalling a transition from day to night. The new Los Lagartos tribe head down the path to Tribal Council, carrying their seven lit torches with them. Jeff watches as the new tribe comes in and sets their torches down, taking their seats.

Jeff: So, new tribe, new relationships. Penny, when I spoke to you after the swap, you told me you were upset about leaving your old tribe. Has that changed since we last spoke?

Penny: Well, I’ve tried looking at this in a more positive light. I’m still in the game, and I have grown to befriend some of my new tribemates. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it’d be.

Jeff: Now that you’ve had a swap, there are bound to be some new dynamics on the tribe. For some, it could mean being narrowly saved from elimination.

Mitzi smiles to herself. Yvonne nods, looking worried.

Jeff: And for others, it could also screw your game and bring you down from the top of the pack to the bottom of the totem pole.

Terrence licks his lips, concerned.

Jeff: Erin, you received votes at the last tribal council you attended, just recently. Concerned you may receive some again tonight?

Erin: Not particularly, no.

Yvonne casts her a look. Darnell bites the inside of his cheek, lost in thought.

Jeff: With this tribe swap, there is a very interesting re-division of tribes, in that no one tribe in particular appears to rise to the top. We have three original Los Lagartos members, but two members each from Las Tortugas and Las Caimanes. If you're going by original tribe lines, it could mean the two from Las Tortugas and Las Caimanes would join forces. Do you agree with that assessment?'

Erin takes a deep breath.

Erin: No, I don't think so. I think this game has evolved into a more individual game. Tribal lines are a thing of the past. We're looking to the future, and who from this group we'd like to move forward with. Who we were with before shouldn't come into play into tonight's tribal.

Jeff: So it's a very interesting tribe dynamic, then? It's uncommon for new alliances to spring forth and for old tribal lines to just...fade away. Darnell, do you agree?

Darnell: Yeah. I think that there were very clear divisions on Los Lagartos and Las Caimanes. Just from the stories we've all been told when we met on our new tribe, it's not unknown knowledge that Terrence is on the outs with Aisha and Mitzi, and Yvonne is on the outs with Erin. So that puts Aisha, Mitzi and Erin all on the same side.

Jeff: Erin, is this true?

Erin shrugs.

Erin: Perhaps.

Yvonne casts Darnell a look. Terrence frowns.

Jeff: Mitzi, the last time we spoke, it was made pretty clear that you were the firecracker of the tribe. Is that still the same now, or have you tried to change that impression that people have of you?

Mitzi chuckles.

Mitzi: I guess trying and succeeding are two very different things.

Darnell nods emphatically. Terrence's eyes flick back up to Probst.

Jeff: And yet, Darnell groups you and Erin and Aisha together. You and Aisha were together from the beginning. But do you believe you have formed new relationships on this tribe? Do you believe you've used this swap well enough to improve on your position in the game?

Mitzi: Definitely. No beating around the bush - I was going home, if I came back to tribal on the old Los Lagartos. As a matter of fact, I might still get votes tonight, because certain people just can't handle my fiery personality, I guess. Terrence over here would have happily sent me packing, back before the swap. Which is why I would love to do the same to him since he, Oberon and Ingrid were very brazenly open about their intentions in putting me and Aisha on the bottom. Now that me and Aisha are on the top, the tables have very drastically turned.

Darnell scoffs, shaking his head. Yvonne mouths the word 'Wow', looking stunned. Penny appears troubled.

Jeff: Terrence...you heard her. Does this alarm you? Do you think you're going home tonight?

Terrence: Well, anytime people bring up your name, it's a cause for concern, Jeff. The thing is, back on the old Los Lagartos, Oberon and Ingrid were both in line on Mitzi's list of targets. One caught her finding the idol, the other betrayed her. Now that they're both gone, I've lost my meat shields. And I'm up for eviction due to guilt by association. She wants to deal the two of them a hefty blow that they'll feel all the way on the other tribe. Smart thing for her to do would be to get rid of me, I suppose.

Mitzi is nodding.

Jeff: And if it's you that possibly goes home tonight, what do you say to convince others to keep you?

Terrence: Keep me cos I'm good in challenges.

Aisha smirks, her brow furrowed. Mitzi rolls her eyes.

Jeff: And Erin - Darnell mentioned you were on the outs with Yvonne. Is this because of what happened at your last and most recent tribal council?

Erin: It is. Yvonne voted against me. She sided with Natalia and tried to send me home. So yeah, it's definitely a hard and bitter pill to swallow.

Yvonne appears tense.

Jeff: Yvonne, what do you say to that?

Yvonne: I don't know what I can say to that, Jeff. I'm going to address not Erin, but Penny instead.

Mitzi casts Aisha a puzzled look. Erin turns to look at Penny, who is confused.

Yvonne: Penny, I'm begging you right now. Please vote the crazy bitch out.

Mitzi laughs out loud, looking incredulous. Aisha is rubbing her temples, laughing silently to herself. Erin looks back and forth between the two women, surprised.

Yvonne: Please. Remember Wilkes? Vote her out.

Mitzi: Penny.

Penny turns to Mitzi.

Mitzi: You know who's been sincere to you these last few days, who's really put in the effort to relate to you, to get to know you. Don't be pressured into making an impulsive decision.

Jeff: Penny, do you know what's happening?

Penny splutters, spreading her hands out in front of her in a hopeless gesture.

Penny: Apparently I'm the one caught in the middle tonight. It's not a position I'm familiar with, Jeff.

Mitzi: Penny, I was on the bottom throughout my time on my original tribe too. I know how much it sucks. I've wanted to be on the top as much as you do, and we can both be on the top of this tribe, together.

Penny: Ah...this is crazy, this is insane, I can't...

Darnell looks over at her, genuinely worried. Terrence's hands are shaking.

Yvonne: I'm begging you, Penny.

Mitzi: Who's been genuine and sincere with you, Penny? Only you know that.

Erin: [in a whisper so the others cannot hear] Just trust me, Penny.

Darnell catches Penny's eye and gives her a knowing nod. She looks more and more uncertain by the second.

Jeff: So let me get this straight. Tonight, Mitzi, Aisha and Erin have banded together and are voting one way...everyone else is voting another. And Penny - you're stuck in the middle. You have another original tribemate in Darnell. Have you consulted with him?

Penny: I uh...I have.

Jeff: Do you feel confident in whatever decision you make tonight? What you decide could have greater, unseen ramifications in the future.

Penny: I know. And that's what worries me. Tribal's intense. [shaky laugh] But I think I'm good.

Jeff: In that case, should we get down to the vote? I'm excited to see what all of you do tonight.

No one objects. Yvonne reaches for Darnell's hand and he grips it, squeezing her hand consolingly.

Jeff: Alright, with that, it is time to vote. Aisha, you're up.

Aisha gets up and the voting music kicks in. Penny takes a deep breath, putting her head in her hands. Mitzi watches her out of the corner of her eye, looking a lot less confident than she did upon entering tribal.

"loslagartos"

- This is for Aidan.

Mitzi heads up to the voting block and uncaps the pen, preparing to scribble down a name.

Mitzi: [shaky laugh] Crazy tribal. Crazy, crazy, crazy...

"loslagartos"

- Shouldn’t have gone up against me, Yvonne. It’s been real.

Penny heads up. The pen uncapped, she pauses, waiting and thinking, hesitating before she puts the tip of pen to parchment. Taking a deep breath, she writes down a name out of sight of the camera.

When she returns, Jeff goes off to tally the votes. Erin casts Penny an uncertain look. Mitzi and Aisha are looking at each other in worry.

Aisha: [whisper] If you go home, I swear...

Mitzi: [whisper] I don't think I will.

Aisha: [whisper] I brought my idol with me.

Mitzi: [whisper] Save it.

Aisha: [whisper] You sure?

Mitzi: [whisper] Yes.

Darnell bites his lip, trying to make eye contact with Penny. Terrence and Yvonne share looks, the latter glancing at Penny to try and gauge her facial expression for any sort of reaction.

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

Aisha looks down at her bag, nervous. Mitzi gives her a slight but subtle shake of the head.

Jeff: Alright, once the votes have been read, the decision is final. Person voted out will be asked to leave the tribal council area immediately. I'll read the votes.

Yvonne takes a deep breath, sitting up straighter, trembling. Terrence licks his lips in trepidation.

Jeff: First vote – Mitzi.

Mitzi is not surprised.

Jeff: Yvonne.

Yvonne does not appear happy, looking down at the floor as her name is read. Terrence watches, solemn.

Jeff: Mitzi.

Mitzi turns her eyes skyward, muttering to herself.

Mitzi: [whisper] Oh please...

Jeff: Yvonne. We’re tied. That’s two votes Mitzi, two votes Yvonne.

Yvonne turns to look at Mitzi, and Mitzi returns her steely gaze.

Jeff: Yvonne. That's three votes Yvonne.

Yvonne takes a shaky breath, pale and visibly shaken. Erin has her eyes fixed on the votes as they're being read, an unbridled intensity glowing in her expression.

Jeff: Mitzi. We're tied again. Three votes Mitzi, three votes Yvonne, one vote left.

Darnell raises an eyebrow. Yvonne appears deeply worried, face white with trepidation. Penny stares at the floor, lips downturned.

Jeff: Fifth person voted out of Survivor: Cayman Islands...

He flips the final vote over.

Jeff: Yvonne.

Darnell lets out an audible groan, looking disgruntled. Terrence looks downcast.

Jeff: Bring me your torch.

Yvonne’s shoulders sags. She smiles at the two boys sadly, getting up and taking her stuff with her.

Yvonne: Good luck boys.

Terrence nods at her, still looking shell-shocked. Darnell shakes his head, casting an annoyed look at Penny. Mitzi is smirking to herself, chuckling. She shoots Aisha a relieved grin. Erin sits up straighter, brushing her hair out of her face, looking confident. Penny rests her face in her hands, quietly watching as Yvonne carries her torch over and places it before Probst.

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

Yvonne turns and waves goodbye to her tribe.

Yvonne: Good luck guys. Have lots of fun!

Erin: Bye…

Mitzi: Thanks, Yvonne.

She smiles and leaves as the others wave back.

Darnell casts Penny a look blazing with accusation. She looks away, biting her lip. Erin squeezes her shoulder reassuringly and Mitzi smiles gratefully back at her.

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

Jeff: Well, this was a close vote and it's clear that there are people on the outs. 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. You have established that of the two tribes, you are the physically weaker one, so you'll need to pull your weight or you'll be back here in another three days and that is something no one wants. Grab your stuff and head back to camp. Goodnight.

Voting Confessionals
"loslagartos"

- You’re a crazy woman! If you don’t go home tonight, something is seriously wrong with Penny.

"loslagartos"

- Bye.

"loslagartos"

- You’re only going home tonight because Erin wants you gone and I need her on my side. If I had my way, it’d be Terrence getting his torch snuffed. Oh well. All I can say is, you can’t hate the players, girl, you can only hate the game, because it has not been kind to you.

"loslagartos"

- Goodbye Wilkes 2.0.

"loslagartos"

- I’m sorry Yvonne. This vote is only because I like the other girls more.

Final Words
"loslagartos"

- Dammit! [laughs] This game hates me! I was on the bottom of my first tribe, I make it to the tribe swap and I think that it’s my saving grace. I thought the Survivor gods had snatched me from the jaws of defeat that were inches away and bestowed upon me a second chance, only for me to go from the frying pan into the fire. Even a swap and a brand new tribe couldn’t save me. Ah well. Penny really screwed me there, but it is what it is. Now I’m off to go get mad drunk with Natalia. Ciao!

Next Time on Survivor...

 * With Penny’s betrayal, the Trinity Alliance is no more, and Darnell loses his temper.

Darnell: I saved you! Okay? I saved you when you could’ve gone home so many times, and this is how you repay me?

"loslagartos"

- [sniff] It was…r-really hard after tribal. D-Darnell was really upset [sniff] and he just railed into me.

Darnell: 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.

"loslagartos"

- And I thought I was the only one who enjoyed blowing things up!


 * And with Elmer on the other beach, Penny finds herself someone else to snuggle with.

Mitzi can be seen ducking behind a tree, poking out from between several large leaves, watching with narrowed eyes as Penny sits by the pond, leaning her head on Terrence’s shoulder and sniffling to herself.

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

Terrence: 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.

"loslagartos"

- 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. It's pathetic.

"loslagartos"

- 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 after what happened the other night, Penny is now deadset on ending Darnell's game.


 * Will an idol be found? Will an idol be played?

"lastortugas"

- 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. Retrieving it was the most nerve-wracking thing I’ve done this entire game.

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

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.

Author's Notes

 * The episode title was said by Penny.


 * In an earlier draft of the season, Yvonne was meant to be medevaced in the 4th immunity challenge. Natalia would thus have survived elimination and gone on to replace Yvonne on Los Lagartos 2.0, where she would have joined Terrence and Darnell in the Trinity alliance and been sent home 5th by Erin, Mitzi, Aisha and Penny; basically taking over Yvonne’s storyline. This would have led to the culmination of the Natalia-Erin conflict reaching its resolution in Episode 5 rather than Episode 4, if Yvonne had been medevaced. This was changed, however, to allow Peter and Callum to prove their loyalty to Brett and Erin by sending Natalia home, as well as to allow the members of Las Caimanes to visit tribal as a tribe at least once before the swap.