IncaLegacy

(set: $c to (colour: red + white + white))(set: $o to (colour: green + yellow + green + white))(set: $q to (colour: purple + blue + black))(set: $v to (colour: blue + white))(set: $t to (colour: orange + gray + gray + red))(set: $m to (colour: #d22024))The camera pans through and over hills, mountains, and a tropical rainforest. Small rainclouds race through the sky as the sun emerges from behind the jungle canopy, illuminating the vibrant landscape. A blond-haired (link: "French Canadian")[Québécois] man with a blue jacket and Capri pants admires the view from atop one particularly high foothill. $v["Such a beautiful sight, isn't it?"] He turns to face the camera. $v["We're here in the Andean mountains of Peru, right before the hills give way to the Amazon rainforest below and away. The crossroads of high and low, of wet and dry. And now, co-operation and competition."] A shot of the challenge area is shown. There are walls enclosing an elevated plateau atop one foothill, with a single path leading in. Three banners flutter in the wind opposite the entrance – $q[one a dark indigo], $o[one a medium green], $c[and one a light pink]. $v["Here, 18 castaways from all walks of life will come to brave the elements, and each other, to see who is worthy of the title of Sole Survivor. They are playing here, in what was once part of the eastern edge of the great Inca Empire, which for a century was the most prominent civilization this side of the Atlantic. They succeeded without so many of the necessities that were taken for granted in the civilizations of Europe, Asia, and Africa... and this season's castaways are here to do the same."] ''SURVIVOR: INCA LEGACY'' $v["We have an exciting season planned for you all, with a number of secrets in store to keep both the players and you at home on your toes,"] says Vincent. He smiles. $v["So without any further delay, let's get started. Eighteen castaways... 39 days... one Sole Survivor!"] Select an episode below: [[Cast Release]] [[Day 1<-Episode 1 - "You Want to Play? Let's Play"]] [[Day 4<-Episode 2 - "Well, Aren't You a Cheerful Little Fuzzball"]] [[Day 7<-Episode 3 - "We Are Allies, You Need Me"]] [[Day 10<-Episode 4 - "Does the Medic Have Whiskey?"]] [[Day 12<-Episode 5 - "Idols Don't Tell Lies"]] [[Episode 6<-Episode 6 - "I'd Prefer You Drop Dead"]] [[Day 18<-Episode 7 - "Good to See You're Still Alive"]] [[Day 21<-Episode 8 - "Lies and Deception and Also Cheese"]] [[Day 23<-Episode 9 - "Talk About Déjà Vu"]] [[Day 26<-Episode 10 - "Okay, It Might Be Personal"]] [[Day 29<-Episode 11 - "We Got One Hell of a Miracle"]] ([[Ponderosa]]) [[Day 32<-Episode 12 - "Surrounded by Piranhas"]] [[Day 35<-Episode 13 - "Great, We're the Goats"]] [[Day 37<-Episode 14 - "Can We Do It Without Getting Bitter?" - Season Finale]] (set: $arrive to "The votenum members of votedpeople arrive at the Town Square and put their torches back where they belong.") (set: $arrivemerge to "The votenum members of Ochalibas arrive back at camp and put their torches next to the shelter.") (set: $votesarein to "With the final vote cast, Vincent goes to the voting booth to collect the voting urn. $v[\"Once the votes are read, the decision is final,\"] says Vincent. $v[\"The person voted off will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I'll read the votes...\"]") (set: $boot to "person voted out of Survivor: Inca Legacy") (set: $juror to "member of our jury")

**Day One Challenge Beach** Vincent is standing at one side of the challenge beach, with three coloured banners fluttering behind him in the harsh wind. $v["Here we are, in the highlands of Peru!"] he calls out, to be heard above the wind. $v["Any minute now, eighteen contestants from all walks of life will come together to compete in what should be the adventure of a lifetime."] The camera switches to a montage of footage of various rainforest animals, including brightly-coloured frogs and a monkey or two. Then, driving between trees on a narrow path, an off-road vehicle is shown carrying six players riding in the back. The camera zooms in on one in particular, a thin girl with brown hair and eyes, pale skin, and a form-fitting red top. //"I've been watching this show since before I knew how to spell its name," says Denine. She is sitting down in the sand. "I think I have what it takes to go far, and I can only hope that I have fun doing it."// Next, as footage of mountains and alpacas plays, Vincent continues. $v["Peru was once the core to the Inca Empire, one of the greatest civilizations in the Americas. Their empire thrived with few of the advantages enjoyed by those in the Old World, and this season we're giving our cast even less to work with."] The shot switches to show a helicopter flying high above the hills and mountains. Inside, another six competitors sit, watching as they approach their home for at least the next three days, or as many as thirty-nine. A tall, blonde woman with a pink dress and a silver purse leans against the window, looking up at the clouds they are skirting under. //"Okay, so like it's going to be really weird not having the basics, like running water, ice machines, that kind of thing? Stuff everyone takes for granted." Ashleia sighs. "But I'm not, like, weak, okay? I don't back down from a good challenge."// Then, footage of narrow, winding rivers is shown, with a variety of tropical fish and other aquatic wildlife in close-up shots. The shot then shows a speedboat that has reached the challenge beach. As Vincent watches the six competitors climb out of the boat, helping each other with their belongings, he speaks up again. $v["We have divided the cast into three tribes of six, groups they will need to depend on to survive.] The final group walks over to Vincent and the tribe mats and banners. They make their way over to the deep indigo mat and stand on it. The camera focuses on the oldest member of the group, a middle-aged, heavyset man with graying hair, as he turns his head to spit on the ground. //"Well, it ain't exactly a vacation, that's for sure," says Monty, sitting on a log. "But laying down and drinking fruity cocktails ain't my idea of a good time either. I work hard, and I play hard."// Once the other two tribes arrived, Vincent clears his throat and speaks up again. $v["Welcome to Survivor: Inca Legacy! The eighteen of you are about to begin the adventure of a lifetime."] Vincent looks over the cast briefly before looking one of them in the eyes. $v["Man in the sports jersey, what's your name?] "Jarrett," responds a young man with black hair and a dark complexion. He is sporting a red, blue, and white basketball jersey. $v["You haven't had the opportunity to talk to your tribe yet, but are you already getting impressions from them, and maybe some of those around you?"] "In a way," says Jarrett. "We've been in a helicopter for a little while, so mostly it's just been seeing each other looking each other over. In my mind at least, the only thing I've gotten is that everyone is as interested in finding out what makes me tick as much as I want to know what makes them tick." $v["Interesting,"] says Vincent with a smile. $v["You, woman in the light blue shirt, what's your name?"] "Lisa." $v["Have you had any more luck than Jarrett?"] A few contestants chuckled at this. "Well, to me it looks like we have an intriguing group," says Lisa with a bit of a blush, "and I look forward to the pleasure of acquainting myself with them all!" $v["Well, Lisa, here's your first chance to see how you and your tribe will get along."] Vincent holds three slips of paper in his hand, and he waves them in front of him. $v["In my hand are notes containing clues to all three hidden immunity idols, as well as a clue to another secret advantage. Each tribe will get one to share... unless they choose to give it up for something that can help them in another way."] He steps to the side, revealing three rolled-up tarps. One is a purple colour, one is green, and one is white. $v["You can choose to give up this note in exchange for a tarp. It may not help you strategically, but this will keep you warm and dry at night, and it might protect your tribe so you'll never even need these clues. Now, you all have a few minutes to discuss with your tribe whether you want the note or the tarp."] A young woman with brown hair brushed to one side and wearing a denim jacket steps forward off the light pink mat. "We're going to take the tarp." Vincent raises his eyebrows, watching the other two tribes huddle out of the corner of his eye. $v["Sorry, what's your name?"] "My name's Jennifer," she replies. $v["Are you sure you want to speak for your tribe on this?"] Jennifer nods. "A tarp will help all of us, an idol will only help one of us and lead to division in our tribe. We need the tarp." Vincent passes the white tarp over to Jennifer. $v["Jennifer, you and the five people behind you are now the] $c[Chalpe Tribe]$v[. Your tarp comes with a map to your camp, and a small kit of the necessities needed to start off strong."] After a brief discussion, Jarrett steps off the green mat. "We're going to take the tarp. We can all use the tarp, we can't all use the idol." Behind him, an anthropomorphic skunk wearing a leather jacket speaks up. "Dude, Jennifer literally just said that." $v["Regardless,"] says Vincent, $v["Jarrett, you and your five teammates are now the] $o[Ochora Tribe]$v[. You will start off with the same supplies as Chalpe."] He passes the green tarp over to Jarrett. After a much longer debate, eventually a college-aged woman with bronze-coloured skin and dark brown hair steps off the indigo mat. "Vincent, we're going to take the tarp as well." $v["Alright, what's your name?"] Vincent asks. "Paula," she replies. $v["Paula, so you are also taking the tarp. May I ask why?"] "Because anyone who wants to take the clue is going to incur the suspicion of our entire tribe, so we want to take away that temptation." Behind her, a woman of the same age with bright blonde hair and a red and black plaid jacket shakes her head. $v["Plaid jacket woman, is there something wrong?"] Vincent asks. "I just don't think that's true," she replies. "The whole tribe can use an idol if we stick together. And if we make a good enough shelter we don't need a tarp." "I really don't think your scenario is likely," says Monty. "Well, don't come crying to me if you guys are outnumbered at the merge." Vincent passes the purple tarp to Paula. $v["Well, time to see whether your prediction comes true. You guys are the ]$q[Quibas Tribe]$v[. And now that you all have the tarps, your decision has been locked in."] He rips up the three notes. $v["You can now head off to your new home. Best of luck."] $c[**Chalpe**] The six members of the tribe arrive at their tribe camp. Jennifer is leading the way, holding the map, having relegated the tribe map to someone else. Their camp is an open field with short grass on a gentle slope. They have a well, but no open water in sight. "Well, we're here," says Jennifer. "Any objections to me taking charge so we can get this tribe rolling?" Nobody says anything. "Alright." Jennifer folds up the map and tucks it into her bag. "I don't really see any of us being all-stars in the strength department, so I think we should all pitch in for building the shelter." //"Leadership is in my blood," says Jennifer. "But to come out and say 'hi, I'm Jennifer, here to boss you all around' would be a death sentence. So, I gotta be careful with my word choice. I need to be approachable if I want to succeed."// "We should split up so we can look for supplies in more places, though," says a man with shoulder-length dirty blond hair and a purple and blue plaid jacket. "Good idea," Jennifer replies. "I'll go this way, you go that way, the rest of you just follow one of us." "Just stick to the trails, you don't know what's lurking out here," adds the plaid-shirted man. //"We may be in the jungles, but it's not always the wild that you have to worry about," says Rhett. "Sometimes the biggest dangers are hiding in human skin. ...That sounded less creepy in my head. I mean watch your back, not watch out for the wendigo."// Rhett and Lisa walk down one path alongside a college-aged man with short blond hair and a gray and blue t-shirt. "I am positively elated to be out here," Lisa explains cheerfully. "I do believe we will be having a splendid time out here, but I would love to know more about you gentlemen." "R-really?" The gray-shirted man asks quietly. "You don't have anything to hide, do you?" Rhett asks, raising an eyebrow. "I don't, I swear! I just don't like being put on the spot." //"In general, I don't like people I don't know," says Buddy. "I've been told I come off as confrontational at times, but I see it as making it clear that my trust needs to be earned. The sooner my tribe realizes I'm not going to bend over backwards for them, the better we can all get along."// "I'm a medicine student," Buddy explains. "I would like to be a doctor someday. Maybe a physician or a surgeon." "Aw, that is so wonderful!" says Lisa. "You will touch the hearts of thousands. What about you, Rhett?" Rhett coughs into his fist. "I don't like to discuss my personal life in front of the cameras." Buddy rolls his eyes. "Where do you think you are? This is reality television, they're going to hear everything. Didn't you sign a release form?" "I forged my signature," Rhett replies. "How do you forge your //own// signature?" Buddy asks in disbelief. Rhett cuts Buddy off. "Lisa, how about you? What do you do?" "I'm just a normal girl with big dreams," Lisa replies. "I'm here to play for my family. Right before I left, my dear father was in a messy car accident... I didn't get to say goodbye." She clenches her eyes shut, and says softly, "I'm playing this for my dad." "Lisa, I'm... I'm so sorry," says Buddy. "We're here for you if you need anything, alright?" //"I'm pleased that we have Buddy, bless his soul, on our tribe," says Lisa. "I didn't even have the heart to interrupt him and tell him my dear father is alive and well. He only could not arrive at the airport to wish me well before the plane took off."// On the other side, Jennifer is walking with Denine, as well as with a chubby anthropomorphic otter with brown fur, an open blue jacket, and a black and white cap. "So, I'm one of the rare few that actually appreciates all of the seasons in some way," says Denine. "Obviously some are better than others, but I don't think any of them are actually terrible." "Wow, not even ---?" Jennifer asks, with the season she believes as terrible being censored. "Yeah that one sucked," adds the otter. "Maybe I'm just a bit of a sadist who likes seeing people miserable." Denine giggles. The otter's eyes widen. //"I like Denine's brutal honesty," says Louie. "She's determined, and despite her positive demeanour, it doesn't look like she is going to put up with any crap."// "As long as I come out with the million, what happens in between doesn't really matter," says Louie. "And if it means crushing some dreams I'll do it." "Well you aren't going to crush any of mine," says Denine. "I'm not going down without a fight." "I don't want to see you go down without a fight," Louie replies. "Scratch that, I'm not going down." Denine smirks. "Nice to see you're hyped and all," says Jennifer, "but I hope the two of you can save this for when we have to beat the other tribes." Denine nods. "Absolutely. We're going to crush them." "Don't make promises you can't keep," says Louie. "I'll keep that in mind for when I make one," Denine fires back. //"Morale is high, we're working as a team, I'd say we're doing pretty well," says Denine. "It's not going to be this easy, but if you start strong then it's all the more likely you can finish strong."// $o[**Ochora**] The tribe of six arrives at their new camp. Their camp consists of a plateau atop a small hill. A stream runs along one edge of the camp, and mutiple paths lead away from the camp and the stream. A black-haired woman of Korean descent with glasses and a yellow shirt is holding the map. "Congratulations, we've made it here alive," she says. "We need to get a shelter built and food collected, since we don't have flint right now." //"We have a tarp, that's a huge advantage right out of the gate," says Min-Ji. "We need to make sure we don't blow it."// The tribe divides into two groups. In one group, Ashleia is looking for food, and she is followed by a blonde woman with tan skin and a blue sweater, and a pale blond man with a pair of soft, pastel blue wings. "So, like, your names are Candace and Saul, right?" Ashleia smiles. "I'm good with names, so I'll take note of that." Saul nods. "Okay, so do you know what we should be doing right now?" he asks. Ashleia sadly shakes her head. "I know that, like, we should find fruit and stuff since we aren't eating just rice? But I don't really know what grows around here. I'm not used to buying fruit that isn't pre-washed." "Have you ever actually seen a fruit outside of the supermarket?" Candace asks. "Like, of course!" Ashleia responds. "That's what the kitchen is for!" //"I'm a bit worried that Ashleia isn't all there in the head," says Candace. "Do you know where you are right now? Do you understand the conditions you're going to be living in? How many fingers am I holding up?"// Saul looks at a berry bush with a raised eyebrow. "I am wondering if these here are edible." "They, like, should be or they wouldn't be out here, right?" Ashleia asks. Saul glances over at Ashleia, with a horrified expression on his face. "What?" Candace walks over and plucks a berry from the bush. "Hm… it's interesting. Reminds me of our planet. Blue, round, soft, delicate to the touch. It may heal us or harm us, and we can only discover this by taking it all in." "I don't understand," Saul replies. "We have to eat it to know if it's safe," says Candace. "That might not be the best course of action," Saul whispers. Candace ignores him and eats the berry. "How was it?" Ashleia asks. "It was okay," says Candace. "If we don't see the medical team in the next six hours, then they should be fine, right?" //"I had my first vision of the game while spending time with the blonde girls," says Saul. "They can be vague, but I try my best to interpret them, so I can use them to help others. Unfortunately, I could only see Candace crouched over a bush in this vision. I hope she has something to use to hold her hair back…"// Elsewhere, the rest of the tribe is collecting supplies for building the shelter. Min-Ji is clearing the way with the tribe's machete, getting the other guys to do most of the carrying. "Think we have enough for six, now?" Jarrett asks, carrying several logs. Min-Ji looks at the pile in Jarrett's arms, and nods. "Between you and Rocky, we definitely have enough. If we find anything on the way back, I'll take it." "Then let's get a move on," says Rocky. The skunk gently jerks his head downwards, causing the sunglasses on his head to fall into place over his eyes. //"Everything's coming together just the way I wanted it," Rocky says, flashing a toothy smile. "I'm working on making a good impression with the people on my tribe who look like they'll be pulling their own weight. I'm not really here for dragging along people who can't keep up, you see."// "So, while we're away from the others," Min-Ji asks, "what do you think of the three out picking fruit?" "I don't really think the one in the pink dress is all that savvy," Jarrett replies. "She seems out of her element." "All three of them seem kind of… passive, if you ask me," Min-Ji adds. "I'm hoping that they're just nervous since it's day one. Eventually we all need to get with the program." "But if they don't, then that's three fewer to worry about." Rocky chuckles. "We can bin 'em like dirty laundry." Min-Ji visibly winces at Rocky's lack of respect. "…right. At least Candace seems to have a decent build, she might be able to help in the strength department." Jarrett nods. "We need to minimize losses. We can't afford to lose more than one person." "Exactly," Min-Ji replies. "We don't want to get targeted after the swap for being intact, though. So, we need to just make sure we don't start on the wrong foot." "Then let's hope we get a good first challenge." //"Min-Ji is fairly bright, I can tell that just by listening to her talk," says Jarrett. "Early game, I think her support is worth having. She seems eager to take on a sort of leadership role as well. I'm willing to back her up there, if only because I don't want to do that myself."// The trio arrives back at camp with their shelter building supplies, and places them down before realizing the others aren't back yet. Rocky shrugs. "We might as well get started with the shelter before the others come back." Jarrett looks over at Min-Ji. "Where did you put the tarp, by the way?" Min-Ji gestures to a flat area of the camp, next to some bushes. "Over there, where the shelter should go if you ask me." Jarrett nods. "Sounds like a plan." //"I think I clicked with Jarrett," Min-Ji admits. She adjusts her glasses. "The two of us are on the same page as to what we want to do. He's easy to talk to, and I already feel like we're going to work well together."// $q[**Quibas**] Paula is climbing up a tree to try and get a better vantage point. "I don't see anything else up here," she calls down to her tribemate. "It was worth a shot," her tribemate replies, brushing her blonde hair out of her face. Her plaid jacket is wrapped around her waist, revealing a light gray undershirt. "We might have enough for a day or two." //Jackie holds her knees with her hands as she leans forward. "Paula and I went to go get some fruit for the tribe, since we were unsure about how long our rice would last. So, I did what any good Survivor player would do and started hinting at working together."// "You and me, final two, what do you think?" Jackie asks. Paula raises her eyebrows. "Already?" "Yeah, I have the perfect plan," says Jackie. "First we get rid of Monty for being old and therefore weak. Then the purple hood guy, he looks shady. Then we have a girl's alliance with the rabbit but we turn on her because she can't help us win immunity. Then we go with the guy with the glasses to the final four, then take him out and whoever's left. It's literally foolproof." "That's… a lot to process," Paula replies. "I'll need a few days to think about this. But in the meantime, you never told me what you do outside the game. Are you a student, are you working, or what?" "Come on, Paula," says Jackie flippantly, "we both know you don't really care." "I mean, I would like to get to know someone before I agree to be their final two partner," says Paula. "Whatever. Sooner or later, I'm going to need a yes or a no." //"I thought this was a social experiment, emphasis on social," says Paula. "Is it wrong for me to want to think this over? Or is Jackie just playing too hard and looking like an idiot?"// Monty has recruited another tribe member – a young man with brown hair, glasses, and a five o'clock shadow – to help him build the shelter. They have selected the highest part of their camp to build the shelter and fire pit, knowing the steep hill leading down to a shallow and small lake would be too troublesome to build on. "You sure you're a construction worker? I can trust you that this will be stable?" Monty's new acquaintance asks. "No reason to lie," says Monty. "What's your name again?" "Vaclav," replies the younger man. "Oh," says Monty. "Sorry. I'm no good with foreign names. Can I call you something like V-Man?" "I'd rather you not," says Vaclav. "Okay, V," Monty replies. He straightens out the tribe's purple tarp and stretches it over the shelter roof. //"I don't even know how I'm supposed to spell that," says Monty in his thick Southern drawl. "V-A-T-Z-L-O-V? I ain't got an idea. I don't speak any European languages."// The two tie the tarp on, and then decide to explore around the camp a little. While walking, Vaclav turns to Monty cautiously. "I-I just think you should know that I'm kind of scared to be out here," Vaclav sheepishly admits. "Everything here is kind of new to me. Tropical weather, no running water, the whole game component, you know? I'm freaking out internally." "You got nothing to worry about in my book," Monty reassures him. "You're a strong guy, you should be safe for a while." "Please don't vote me out! I'm not a physical threat!" Vaclav pleads. "Why would I ever do that, Vad-man?" Monty wonders aloud. "You seem like a good kid. Ease up a bit." He spits into a rut in the dirt path. The two continue down a path away from camp. Meanwhile, their other two tribemates are busy assembling a fire pit. One of them, an anthropomorphic rabbit girl, gestures towards the indigo hood being worn by the other. "So, what's this for? Are you a druid or something?" she asks. "Close, but not quite. I'm a ninja." "How are ninjas and druids related?" //Tara scratches her head, right behind one of her long floppy ears. "So the hooded guy, Khall, I kind of got drawn to him because I feel like I'm dwarfed around everyone else besides maybe Paula. I felt more comfortable with him at first. But now I'm learning he's kind of… weird."// "…and then the entire ride came to a screeching halt! I got out of my seat and raced over to see what the problem was," says Khall. "Okay, were you allowed to?" Tara asks. "I don't remember, but that might be why I ran into those security guards later," Khall replies. "But anyways. I got right under the nose of the car, and would you believe it – stuck under the left wheel, it was the five of spades!" "That's actually kind of cool," says Tara. She smiles. "You know, magic is kind of my thing. I don't usually do card tricks and stuff though, I get more… advanced than that." "Oh, awesome! What am I thinking about right now?" Khall excitedly asks. "You're thinking about what I mean by advanced tricks," Tara replies, a little confused. "Wow, that's amazing! How did you know?" //"I love Tara! She's like my best friend here," Khall explains. "We're both good at bending the fabric of reality, and we both like the colour green! It's great to be on her tribe, and working with her would be amazing."// "Want to see something I can do?" Tara asks. She lifts one paw about five centimeters above a rock. She then raises her paw slowly in the air, and to Khall's surprise, the rock moves up at the same rate. "What else can you do? Oh, can you make it into a cactus?" Khall suggests. Tara's concentration breaks, and the rock drops back to the ground. "W-what!? I'm sorry, I guess I just didn't expect you to ask something like that." Khall looks down sadly. "I just can't make something alive out of something not alive is all," says Tara. "I mean you'd have to give me some other kind of plant for me to do that." "I'll be right back!" Khall exclaims. "Oh, no you don't! We have a fire pit to make still," says Tara, grabbing onto his green cape. Khall stumbles and falls backwards when he fails to break out of Tara's grip. //"I can't really deny that at the same time Khall seems like a genuine guy, if a little loopy," says Tara. "And I think I need to start working on getting my head in the game, so maybe working with him wouldn't be a bad place to start."// Tara opens her mouth to ask a question, but Khall places his gloved hand over her mouth. "I don't see a problem with voting with you," says Khall, "but my creator had a character win the last season, so I doubt I'll be around to help you for very long." Tara pushes Khall's arm back. "I don't even understand what you're trying to say here." At this point, Monty and Vaclav return to camp. Monty is holding a piece of flint. "We can get fire now," says Monty. "Either of you get any leaves or twigs we can start one with?" "Awesome! Yeah, we have a pile started here. Not sure where the machete went, though," Tara replies. //"I didn't think getting the flint would be that easy," Vaclav admits, "but it turns out not far from camp was this little place with a bunch of podiums and tribe banners, and there were three pieces of flint. I thought we would need to earn it, but heh, maybe not. I might have to go back and make sure we didn't miss anything. No stone unturned... or else..." He shudders.// [[Day 2<-Read Day 2]]

**Day 2** $c[**Chalpe**] //"Well, we ran out of time to construct a fire pit," says Lisa, "but we do have quite the pleasant little abode with a nice white tarp on top! If it rains, fire might not be so urgent, I suppose."// Louie was the first to wake up, after having turned in early last night. He tries to sit himself up, but finds more than his overweight frame holding him down. He looks down and notices all five members of his tribe are using his chest and belly as a pillow. "Get. Off. Me." He growls, but his plea falls on deaf ears, as nobody stirs to hear him. He sighs. //"Who needs comfort items when you have Louie?" Buddy chuckles to himself. "Although I'm not sure it's worth the crotchety old man vibe we all get when he's awake. So I'm guessing I should enjoy it while he's still able to resist just pushing us off."// Louie's stomach abruptly rumbles, which quickly makes the other five awaken. "What the hell was that?" Denine grumbles, wiping her eyes. "Your warning that if we don't get some food in the next, I don't know, two hours, you're all on my hit list," Louie replies. //"No fire so we can't cook the rice. Nobody bothered to go look for fruit yesterday. You bet I'm pissed," Louie explains. "I'm not a happy-go-lucky guy, understand? I'm not going to fake a smile just for brownie points with these people."// Jennifer and Buddy go off on their own first. "Alright, so we need to have a good variety of fruits and seeds," says Jennifer. "If we just have a bunch of fruits then we have no protein, and we can't live on seeds because we aren't chipmunks." "Louie kind of looks like one," says Buddy. "One, he's an otter," Jennifer replies, "and two, this food is just for the five of us. I bet he can get his own food." "And if he can't, he can stand to go on an emergency diet," says Buddy. "Scan the left side of the path for anything that looks edible," says Jennifer. "I'll handle the right. We can sort it out back at camp and see what won't poison us." //"We're done with the greetings and the gossip, time to worry about survival," explains Jennifer. "This tribe I can already tell has either a discipline problem or a superiority complex. If we're going to be successful, that can't stand."// Buddy looks over at Jennifer. "Do you think this is enough?" He is lifting the bottom of his shirt, so he can hold a sizable amount of berries and seeds in the pocket he has created over his stomach. "Did you seriously forget to bring a basket?" Jennifer asks, with an eyebrow raised. "You didn't give me much time to think about what was going on," Buddy replies. Jennifer rolls her eyes. "Just... just put it in mine. It should fit." //"Hey, Jen, here's a tip for you," says Buddy. "Chill out with the whole power trip stuff. It's just making me not want to have to listen to your barking orders."// Meanwhile, Denine and Rhett are walking together. Denine is walking slightly in front of Rhett, carrying the basket that Buddy forgot. "You know, I like a guy who's good with his hands," says Denine. She raises an eyebrow and smiles. "I like a girl who knows there's a time and a place for hookups," Rhett replies. "Touché," Denine says, "but it was worth a shot." //"I can't help that Rhett's cute, you know," says Denine. "I didn't expect to only have two guys I could really try with. I thought I could give Rhett a shot, but I guess I need to win him over the old-fashioned way – small talk."// "So what do you like most about Survivor?" Denine excitedly asks. "I like the concept of many bright minds coming together and putting each other to the test," Rhett explains. "It's a bit of a tragedy that it has so often been diluted to the benefit of the more physically fit males, to the detriment of the other players." "Yeah, production rigging sucks, but it's led to some good moments," Denine replies. "Production... rigging? They can do that?" Rhett asks, slightly worried. "Sometimes," says Denine. "Reality TV is a misnomer." "Interesting." Rhett picks a fruit from a tree, and places it in Denine's basket. "So, I have a philosophical question for you." "Okay, shoot." "Do you believe someone can be held responsible for what they do while they are inebriated?" Rhett asks. Denine, while a little confused, decides to give her honest opinion. "I think so, if they made the decision to consume alcohol. Isn't that more of a legal question, though?" "Well, alcohol does remove inhibitions often, doesn't it?" Rhett replies. "Their actions may reflect what they want to do while sober." //"I am pleased to see that Denine was not casted for her looks," says Rhett. "I think she makes a good debate partner, and I believe she may be a useful ally as well."// Lisa is back at camp, keeping an eye on Louie. "Do not fret, my rotund companion," says Lisa. "Our tribe is hard at work finding food for us all. Oh, perhaps we could have a soiree to celebrate! That would lift our spirits for the first challenge, I bet. And aren't they simply delightful occasions?" "I'll pass," says Louie flatly. "Oh, Louie, don't be such a sourpuss!" Lisa replies. "I'm sure you'll enjoy it, even if our company leaves a little to be desired." Louie pulls his visor over his eyes. "Oh, dearie! Are you feeling alright?" Lisa asks. "You aren't having a migraine, are you?" "Shut up," Louie snaps. //"I'm feeling a bit miffed that Louie is shutting us all out like this," Lisa admits. "And although I would love to have him in brighter spirits, if he does not open up then eliminating him would not be a hassle."// $o[**Ochora**] Min-Ji is walking by herself, trying to get a little alone time to think. //"Our tribe is doing okay," she explains. "We are all getting along, and we don't have anyone who's difficult to talk to, save for Rocky. But he's our sacrificial lamb, so we have five good people who can work together."// On her walk, she stumbles across a quaint plaza of sorts. She notices three wide podiums, each bearing a tribe colour. The $o[green] and $c[light pink] podiums each have flint on top, while the $q[indigo] podium has nothing. She walks past the row of eighteen torches at the other side of the plaza and inspects the area. "This must be the twist," says Min-Ji. "Some sort of meeting place, I can imagine." She then notices a small sign near the podiums and decides to read what it says out loud. "Not all great empires can rule from one throne. The Inca empire was divided into four separate kingdoms, but cooperation between them was vital. In the same way, the **Town Square** has been provided to you to mingle with the other tribes." //"Right when I thought everything was going well, here comes a curveball," says Min-Ji. She sighs. "The problem is, what use is this twist when we don't have any allies on the other side? Should I tell the others about this?"// Min-Ji eventually decides to leave the flint where it is and return to camp. //"I couldn't risk it. It's a little too early. We need to focus on ourselves first, and as long as it stays dry we might not need the flint quite yet. Knock on wood."// Back at camp, Jarrett is chatting with Ashleia and Candace. "So, has Min-Ji talked to either of you guys about tribe leadership or anything like that?" Jarrett asks. "Anyone may be appointed a leader," says Candace, "but true leadership comes from within. She must ask herself if she wants to be a true guide, or merely a tyrant." Jarrett raises an eyebrow. "Um, I guess that wasn't a good berry," says Ashleia. "The berry was fine," Candace assures her. "Besides, Rocky already ate like twelve and he's still conscious." //"I consider myself someone who's in touch with the world," explains Candace. "I do feel like sometimes I have to pour my soul out, in the hopes that I can help others obtain a sort of... nirvana. It's a sort of inner poetry."// "I mean, I think she could be leader if she wants to," says Ashleia. "She hasn't really done anything wrong yet." "That's my reasoning as well," says Jarrett. "Candace, anything to add?" "Not especially," says Candace. "Kind of distracted at the moment." "What did I just say?" Jarrett asks. "Candace, anything to add?" Candace replies. //"I thought Ashleia was going to be the difficult one to work with," Jarrett explains, "but Candace is on another level. She's letting the game just flow around her. She needs to get serious."// Ashleia manages to get Jarrett alone afterwards for a one-on-one talk. "Okay, Jarret, like, I think you know what you're doing and all," Ashleia explains. "Can we maybe, like, work together for now? I just don't want to be left out because of, like, first impressions and stuff. I know I can help you, I'm not an idiot." Jarrett pretends to think it over for a few seconds, before nodding. "Alright, sounds good to me. We can team up." "Thank you so much," says Ashleia. "This is, like, something I promise you won't regret!" //"I'm, like, not really used to working with men. I don't have the best history with them since a lot of them see me, like, as less of a person just because I'm pretty and stuff," says Ashleia. "But, like, here I'm going out on a limb and talking to Jarrett because I don't have much choice. I hope it, like, works out."// Min-Ji arrives back at camp to notice Saul struggling with making a fire, and Rocky sitting nearby watching. Saul is trying his hardest to rub two sticks together. "Just give up, it's not happening," says Rocky. "I want to help this tribe, and in the absence of flint, this is my preferred course of action," Saul replies. "Pfft, you're just tiring yourself out." Rocky leans forward. "Those sticks are bigger than your forearms, you're not getting any kind of friction here." "Would you like to try?" Saul asks. "What do you think I was doing for the past three hours?" Rocky counters. "Air guitar," says Saul. //"I sense an unpleasant aura from Rocky, and he makes little effort to mask it," Saul explains. "It is one of arrogance, entitlement, and associated behaviours. I am doing what I can to counteract this, for the good of the tribe."// "Rocky, lay off him, at least he's trying," says Min-Ji. "It's no use unless we have flint," Rocky replies. "It's not my fault he's using up his strength on a lost cause." "I wish we had flint too," says Min-Ji. "But life doesn't always work like that. Suck it up, kid." //"What did I even do to her?" Rocky asks. "Heck, what did I do to anyone!? I've just been trying to help out and make sure we don't waste our energy."// $q[**Quibas**] Monty and Paula are crouched by the lakeshore, collecting water to boil. "So we're supposedly that close to the other camps? And they didn't tell us about this at the start?" Paula makes a concerned hum. "What an odd way to treat a game changing twist." "It ain't no big deal," Monty replies. "Just a twist is all." "You know what this reminds me of?" Paula says, standing up. "Not sure why I thought of this. But walking through the woods behind my house. I live at the edge of a small forestry town, and there's this neat little campground not too far a walk from the backyard. It's where I used to chill with my friends in my elementary years, before we knew about vodka coolers." She chuckles. "No way, you're from the country too?" Monty smiles. "Well, I didn't expect that from someone so... so..." "Just say it," Paula teases. "Hispanic." "W-HUH?" "Oh, um, is that not the word you use anymore?" Monty asks. "What does that have to do with me living in the country!?" Paula replies. //"Good going, you dolt," says Monty. "You made the girl uncomfortable. I gotta make it up to Paula, this ain't how I wanted to start things with her."// "I thought y'all lived in cities or something, my bad," says Monty sheepishly. "I suggest you keep quiet for a while, so you don't dig yourself deeper," Paula replies. "That's a good idea," Monty mumbles. "I hope you haven't been saying that kind of stuff to anyone else," says Paula. "Is that why Jackie wants to vote you out?" Monty raises an eyebrow. "I barely even talked to her. But that ain't no problem to me. We can sort that out if we lose, you know?" //"I don't think he meant to do that," says Paula. "So, I decided to give him another chance, and even tip him off about Jackie because she's being kind of a game-obsessed psycho. I would love to have time to get my bearings, so having those two against each other isn't the worst thing in the world I suppose."// The pair returns to camp, where Khall and Jackie are sitting. "Wow, we sure got a lot of water to boil so we don't go thirsty," Monty says loudly. "It feels great to help out the tribe." "Um, yeah, I guess," Paula replies. Monty walks over to Khall. "Hey Khall," he says, so Jackie will hear him, "don't you think it's great that we're doing all this work around camp?" Jackie scowls. //"Oh you've got to be kidding," says Jackie. "He does ONE thing good, and he wants to rub it in our faces. Newsflash, anyone can do that!"// Jackie then pulls Tara aside. "Tara, listen, we need to be in an alliance." "Why do you say that?" Tara asks. "Paula must have told Monty that I want him out, so now she's kind of against us. We need to stick together and bring in Khall and Vaclav, so we have the majority," Jackie replies quickly. "Let's not be too hasty," says Tara. "Do you want the game to pass you by?" Jackie asks. "Or do you want to take control and be respected?" "I wouldn't mind working with you, but you don't have to be so intense," says Tara. //"I just don't want it to be Khall or me," says Tara. "So if Jackie wants to side with us, that's good for me, even if she's, you know, Jackie."// "Well, now that we're allies we need to figure out what we do if we ever lose," says Jackie. "Like right now anything's fine with me because everyone else here sucks." "I thought you liked Paula," Tara replies. "I can't trust Paula right now," says Jackie. "If she can't see that working with Monty is a bad idea, then that's her problem. You and I, we're the only ones that matter right now." "So, um, can we possibly vote out Vaclav if we lose?" Tara asks. "If you and I are together, and Paula and Monty are, and I can get Khall with us, then he's kind of the outsider." "Um, why him and not Monty?" Jackie asks. "He just seems like a nervous wreck, and I don't want him to, you know, tank us by accident," explains Tara. //"Monty just... sucks," says Jackie. "I know he hasn't really done anything wrong, and he's been nothing but nice and helpful, and he helped build the shelter and made the fire, but he's just... he sucks. I want to get rid of him, with or without Tara's help."// Later in the day, Paula has a conversation with Khall and Tara. "I've seen you two sticking together," says Paula. "Just friends, I take it?" "Pretty much," says Khall. "Any reason why you called us here? No wait, you didn't call us here, it just felt appropriate to say that." "Paula, we want you to vote out Vaclav with us," says Tara. "I'm concerned about him." "I can see why, I guess," says Paula. "He's always skittish. But Monty's assured me that he's fine." "We kind of have to," says Tara. "I think we're the most stable ones here, so- Khall what are you doing." Paula and Tara look over to see Khall making a balloon animal out of a spare glove. "Right, stable," says Paula. "Okay, just us two then, and Khall's our extra vote," says Tara. "That's more accurate," says Khall. //"Gee, I hope this comic relief is working, or else I'm just detracting from a crucial scene," says Khall.// "So, if Jackie is voting Monty, then the three of us can control the vote," says Paula. "I'll have to think about it." "I, um, I was told you guys were talking about me." Khall steps to the side to allow Vaclav into the conversation. "We weren't," says Paula. "We're just talking about the food situation. By the way, have you found anything recently? I came across this one tree thataway, but I didn't get to see if it was growing anything good." "I can check that out for you." Vaclav nods and walks away, but quietly ducks into a nearby bush when nobody was looking in his direction. //"You don't need to be all hush hush when talking about the food!" Vaclav protests. "I wasn't going to let them get away that easily. I just knew they were plotting to get me out."// Tara, however, can sense that Vaclav hadn't actually left the scene. She smiles playfully and turns to Paula. "So, did Khall tell you I was a magician?" "I don't think he did," says Paula. "Well, most of it is my ability to turn things into other things," Tara explains. "Except into cactuses," says Khall, crossing his arms. He looked to be pouting, but it was impossible to read facial expressions under the unnatural darkness beneath his hood. "Moving on. Vaclav kind of reminds me of a skittish little squirrel," says Tara. "I don't like the sound of this," says Paula. "Relax, it would be mostly painless," Tara replies. "But yeah, you get it. Making the body conform to the mind and all." "But why would you do something like that?" Khall asks, incredulously. "I try not to. It may be fun, but it's not worth it," says Tara. "Unless I have a good reason." "What kind of reason?" Khall asks, scratching his head. Tara sticks out her tongue. "Wait and see." Vaclav's eyes go wide. He tries to cover his mouth with his hands without rustling the bush. //"Well I didn't know that much about Tara," says Paula with a shrug. "But she seems pleasant and sweet enough that this side of her shouldn't be worrisome. ...Right?"// [[Day 3<-Read Day 3]]

**Day 3 Immunity Challenge** Everyone competes. First, one member at a time has to go out and untie a bag of puzzle pieces from underneath a buoy in a lake. There are four bags in total. The fifth person will have to solve a puzzle that gives a sixth person the combination to a locked box, with the trick being the combination is made of various letter-like symbols instead of letters, numbers, or shapes. When the sixth person unlocks the box, they will use the machete inside to cut a small rope that will unfurl their tribe's banner. First tribe to release their tribe's banner wins fishing gear, and the last tribe to do so will vote someone out. ORDER: First bag: $c[Jennifer], $o[Jarrett], $q[Tara] Second bag: $c[Rhett], $o[Min-Ji], $q[Monty] Third bag: $c[Denine], $o[Candace], $q[Paula] Final bag: $c[Louie], $o[Rocky], $q[Vaclav] Puzzle: $c[Lisa], $o[Saul], $q[Jackie] Locked box: $c[Buddy], $o[Ashleia], $q[Khall] Chalpe edges to an early lead as Jennifer has little trouble, while both Jarrett and Tara have trouble in the water Jennifer retrieves her bag and tags in Rhett, who closes in as his opponents continue to struggle Tara then retrieves her bag and tags in Monty, just as Rhett and Jarrett find their bags Rhett and Jarrett tag in Denine and Min-Ji respectively. Min-Ji does better than Jarrett did, but Denine is an experienced swimmer and handily beats Min-Ji to the bags Denine finds her bag and swims back while Monty continues having issues and Min-Ji panics while trying to make up for lost time Denine tags in Louie, who is an even faster and more graceful swimmer than Denine Monty and Min-Ji both manage to find their bags before Louie, and begin the swim back Louie finds Chalpe's last bag, and swims back to the beach. He is unable to catch up with Min-Ji, but he delivers the last bag before Monty tags in Paula Lisa opens up all four bags and gets to work on the puzzle Candace has trouble holding her breath, allowing Paula to catch up and tag in slightly faster than Candace Lisa is halfway done her puzzle when Paula tags in Vaclav Vaclav surprises his tribe by delivering on his promises to not freak out in the water, actually making good time. However, Rocky is a better swimmer and puts Ochora back in second place Lisa completes her puzzle, and while she doesn't recognize the symbols, she explains them as clearly as they can to Buddy Rocky manages to get his bag out with no trouble, but Vaclav - having left his glasses with Jackie - has issues with depth perception in the water Rocky manages to deliver the last bag, but it's too late - Buddy manages to unlock the box Saul begins opening the bags while Buddy takes the machete and lets the $c[Chalpe] banner unfurl $c[Chalpe wins immunity and fishing supplies!] Vaclav unties his bag as Saul works on the puzzle, swimming back and delivering the last puzzle bag to Jackie Jackie quietly gets to work on her puzzle, occasionally looking over at the cool and collected Saul To Jackie's surprise, she finishes the puzzle first, and begins telling Khall what symbols she sees. Saul takes a minute or two after Jackie finished to finish himself, and proceeds to give directions to Ashleia Jackie gets frustrated with Khall misinterpreting her directions, and repeats herself instead of clarifying for him Ashleia, meanwhile, asks Saul more specific questions when she's confused (instead of simply saying she doesn't understand, like Khall) Eventually, Ashleia unlocks the box before Jackie and Khall make much progress. Jackie annoyedly blames the rest of her tribe for sucking as Ashleia unfurls the $o[Ochora] banner $o[Ochora wins immunity!] $q[Quibas loses, and will have to vote someone out at tribal council] $v[Vincent asks the] $q[Quibas] $v[tribe to kidnap one member of the] $c[Chalpe] $v[tribe to join them at Tribal Council. They will have individual immunity and be able to vote.] The Quibas tribe has no idea who anyone is, so Paula picks Buddy on a whim. Her tribe shrugs and agrees. $c[Buddy] is given a bottle to open at tribal council, and goes with the $q[Quibas Tribe] back to their camp $q[**Quibas**] After the challenge, Jackie decides to get Tara and Khall to have an alliance conversation with her. "Well, Monty took longer on the challenge than Vaclav did," says Jackie. "See what I mean? He's a liability." Tara nods. "Okay, I'll vote for him this round. Khall, are you in?" Khall shrugs. "Okay." "The two of you better not make me regret this," says Jackie. She crosses her arms. "Thanks for being so understanding," Tara replies flatly. //"Okay, cool, I'll vote with you, Jackie," says Tara. "Now can you stop being so hostile? Please? It's not healthy."// Meanwhile Vaclav is frantically pleading to Monty for survival. Again. "You gotta take her out, Monty!" Vaclav cries, holding onto Monty's collar. "She wants to turn me into a squirrel! I heard her! She's got that strange magic!" "Well, can she do somethin' like that?" asks a confused Monty. "I don't want to chance it!" Vaclav replies. "Plus she's been talking with Jackie tonight, and Jackie thinks you're going home 6 to 1." "I'm in, then," says Monty. He spits beside him. "I ain't goin' home this early." //"Jackie is a spoiled little girl, and her attitude is one I don't work with," Monty explains. "So if she wants me out for not being a twenty-something model boy, then she's not worth my breath. And Tara may be nice, but she's picked her side. Too bad it's the side I don't like anymore."// Buddy is sitting by the fire, not too happy with the idea of being surrounded by a different tribe's drama when Paula walks over to him and sits down. "Hi, Buddy," says Paula. "Can we talk for a second?" "It's why you kidnapped me, isn't it?" Buddy replies. "Well, yeah," says Paula. "Vaclav and I are going to vote out Tara, and we think Monty is going to join us. We only need your vote to make it four." "Why do you want her out?" Buddy asks. "It's more Vaclav wants her out than I do," Paula explains. "He thinks she wants to turn him into a squirrel or something? I think there's something not all there with him. But Tara's not very strong, and I'm concerned about if someone is going to call her bluff." //"I didn't expect it to pan out this way, but here we are," says Paula. "Here I am, counting on someone from another tribe to swing the majority in my favour. Don't get me wrong, Tara's a nice girl, but I'd rather lose her than Monty right now."// After Paula had left, Jackie decides it's her turn to try and sway Buddy. "I think you should vote out Monty, with us," she says. Buddy raises an eyebrow. "Is that so?" "Yeah because, like, everyone else wants him out so you'd look bad if you tried to save him," says Jackie. "And it will determine if you and your tribe are, like, worth trusting." "Why should I care what you think about us?" Buddy asks. "Look, forget it," says Jackie. "Monty just sucks on a personal level, but he helps us around at camp so if you vote us off over Tara you're sort of weakening us. Isn't that what you guys want, anyways?" "Oh, wow, that's tempting," says Buddy. "I'll have to think it over." "You better pick correctly," Jackie replies. She turns to walk away but stops. "Oh, and by correctly, I mean vote Monty." //"I don't get what kind of tribe would be so fractured on day three that they give me all the power," Buddy admits. "It's difficult to wrap my head around. I can vote Tara out, and get rid of a wild card that benefits another tribe short term. But I can also vote out Monty, and that would just serve to make Jackie try and eat the tribe alive. It's a matter of who here can help me when a swap or merge hits."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The six members of the Quibas tribe, along with Buddy, walk into the tribal council building. This season, it looks like a small temple of sorts, with the insides plastered and renovated to look fresh. Ornate tapestries adorn the walls. The very back of the building has an open roof, to let out smoke from the fire burning by the back wall. $v["You can all come forth and ignite your torch from the fire,"] says Vincent. As they do so, he continues: $v["In this game, fire represents life. When your torch goes out, so do you. Take a seat."] The seven contestants sit down in the stools that form a crescent shape in the middle of the room, facing the fire. Buddy sits in the very middle, holding the bottle given to him at the challenge. $v["Paula, it felt like progress in that challenge for your tribe was very off and on. Has that influenced your decision at all?"] "For the most part, not really," says Paula. "I think for the most part people had already decided which way they were going to vote before the challenge even happened. Mostly it's just settled on who's the target for each side." $v["Meaning the two who performed the weakest?"] "That would make the most sense," Paula replies. "That's not the case." $v["Jackie, does this make sense to you?"] "It makes perfect sense," says Jackie. "The person leaving tonight has it coming." "Monty doesn't have anything coming," Vaclav interrupts. "I don't get why you're so bent on getting rid of him, but he's not the worst one here, okay? He's a good guy!" "Boring," says Jackie. $v["Vaclav, are you saying you're voting based on who you think is 'worse' than the others?"] Vaclav nods. "My vote is for my own safety. And not just as in safety from elimination." "You're not actually in danger, though," says Khall. "That would be a little too dark, even for this series." $v["Monty,"] Vincent asks, $v["is this conflict that Vaclav has with someone else on this tribe good for you?] Monty shakes his head. "No, because I know I don't deserve to go either way. It don't change a thing. Our plan is still the same." $v["Paula, do you know what this plan is?"] "Yes, I do," says Paula, "but that's what we're here to prove, isn't it? Trial by fire." "Honestly, you aren't doing yourself any favours," Jackie replies. "You've been really wishy washy, how are we supposed to know if you're with us or against us if you don't admit to anything?" "You expected me to commit to a final two alliance on day one," Paula snaps. "You need to chill out." "Well, YOU need to tell me if you're with me or against me." Paula smirks. "I guess that means I'm against you, then, Jackie. You want to play? Let's play." $v["Tara, how do you see this as someone looking on the outside?"] "This is affecting all of us," says Tara. "It's not just about Monty and Jackie now, but now everything is starting to be coloured in this abrupt war between two sides. It's not fun. We have our own problems to deal with." She looks directly at Vaclav while saying this, making him freeze and tense up in his seat. $v["Lastly, Buddy, as a member of the Chalpe tribe, how do you deal with something like this? Are you planning to settle the dispute, or ignore it?"] "Well, since I have immunity, which I want to keep by the way," says Buddy, "I'm making this vote to benefit myself. Just as I would if this was on my own tribe." $v["Okay then,"] says Vincent. $v["It is time to vote. Vaclav, you are first."] ... Monty reveals his vote to be for **Tara**. "You have a winning spirit. But this is my alliance's plan, and they're the ones looking out for me." Tara reveals her vote to be for **Monty**. "Sorry that it has to end like this." ... $votesarein $v["Monty."] $v["Monty. That is two votes Monty."] $v["Tara."] $v["Tara. We are tied, two votes each."] Jackie glares at Paula, who winks and smiles in return. $v["Tara. She takes the lead with three votes."] Khall and Tara hold hands. $v["Monty. Three votes Monty, three votes Tara, one vote left."] The entire tribe looks over at Buddy, attempting to figure out how he voted. $v["Final vote, and the first $boot is… Tara. You need to bring me your torch."] "Oh… I'm sorry, guys, whatever I did," says Tara, sadly. She gets up, letting go of Khall. "I'll miss you," says Khall. As Tara grabs her torch, she passes by Khall, and ruffles the top of his hood. "Do well, okay?" She places her torch in front of Vincent. $v["Tara, the tribe has spoken."] He snuffs the gray rabbit's torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] Tara silently exits the building with her belongings. $v["And on a heavily divided tribe, it appears that a bystander took the fall tonight based on where their loyalties lied,"] says Vincent. $v["Next time you may kidnap someone with a different agenda, so the game is by no means over for the minority voters. Keep that in mind as you head back to camp."] //$q["I really didn't expect to be the one to get voted out here," Tara admits. "I guess not everyone sees it coming, though. I shouldn't have been so passive, I think that's what got me. I hyped myself up but did nothing about it. But at least I made a friend before I left."]// Voting Results: ''Tara - $c[Buddy], Monty, Paula, Vaclav'' Monty – Jackie, Khall, Tara [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$v[**Day 3 Tribal Council**] Vincent stops the Quibas tribe before they can get up and leave. $v["One more thing. Buddy, I gave you that bottle at the challenge. I'd like you to open it."] Buddy nods, takes the cap off the bottle, and removes the note from inside. "After you have voted off a member of the Quibas tribe," he reads, "it is time for you to walk down your own road. You will not return to the Quibas camp, and you must part ways with them at the Town Square." $v["You can now head back to camp."] $t[**Day 4 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[five](replace: "votedpeople")[Quibas plus Buddy] "Wow, that was a lot of walking," says Khall. "It must have been like five minutes to get here, and then it's another fifteen to get back to camp." "Um, yeah," Paula replies. "There's a lot of ground we need to cover. What were you expecting?" "I thought we would be at our camp," Khall explains, "then a brief few seconds of walking with our torches, and then it's a smooth transition to nighttime at tribal council." "Are you serious? That's just how they edit the scenes," says Buddy. Jackie gives a disappointed look. "Khall, you're an idiot." Khall lowers his head in shame. "Yeah, I know..." "Well, that tribal was something I don't want to go through again any time soon," says Paula. "Can we work together in challenges and not take what just happened personally?" Khall nods. "I'll do it for Tara." Paula looks expectantly at the other members of the tribe until they each agree as well. //"That was really nerve-wracking," explains Paula. "Everything was going so fast, I didn't have the time to step back and think 'okay, am I doing the right thing?' It's too early to call this a win, we need to see how the five of us can operate."// Jackie looks over at Buddy. "So why did YOU vote her out?" "Why should you care?" Buddy snaps. "It's too late to do anything about it." "It's not too late to do anything about the mess you might have just caused," Jackie replies. "The way I see things, we were all on the same page until around the time you showed up." //"The one person on this tribe that I actually trusted here is gone," says Jackie with a huff. "And it's total BS the way it happened. If it wasn't for that stupid kidnapping twist I might have been able to actually vote out Monty. But you know, Buddy's not on this tribe, so I'm going to needle him about it until I find out the truth."// "I didn't see it that way," Buddy replies. "There were some people saying pretty much every name except for Paula and Khall. I just let you guys sort things out and then picked a side. It's that simple." "I gave you the perfect reason to not vote out Tara," says Jackie. "Perfect for you, maybe," says Buddy. "Unfortunately, I don't really give a damn what you want. I voted her out, now you're going to have to live with it." "Fine," Jackie snaps. "Well, if you're not going to be helpful, I'm headed back to camp. OUR camp." She turns back towards the Quibas campsite, clenching her fists. "I'm going with her, just in case she tries to, you know, vent," says Vaclav. He chases after Jackie. Monty then turns to Khall. "I know she was your friend, but V-Man didn't give us much of a choice. Don't take this too hard, okay?" "Just don't vote me out next," Khall replies. "Then we should be okay." "You're probably the safest one on the tribe right now," says Paula. She puts a hand on Khall's shoulder. "This wasn't an attack on you. You may have liked her, but Vaclav wasn't the only one worried about her. I got nervous. But keep it together, we want to keep you over Jackie." //"So far, everything I thought I would be here for just went out the window," says Khall. "I thought I would be in the background, doing my own thing, but I just lost my best friend and now I'm in the minority. I have some thinking to do about what my game plan is, and that's not my strong suit."// Eventually, the town square clears out, and only Buddy and Paula remain. "Okay, I know Jackie can be kind of difficult," says Paula, "but I think you went a little harsh on her." "I don't think so," Buddy replies. "It's honestly none of her business how I play. If she thinks she was entitled to my vote because she supposedly had the better strategy, then she needs a wake-up call." "You don't have to be the one to deliver it," says Paula. "It pays to let other people do the talking, you know. I know we have to work together, but I might not be able to bail you out if you put yourself in a tricky situation." "It shouldn't have to come to that." Buddy puts his hands on his hips. "I can handle myself fine, just like I hope that you can. The last thing we want is people getting suspicious of our relationship." //"Paula and I have been best friends since the fifth grade," Buddy admits. "Getting casted on the same season was a total coincidence, but I'm glad it happened because I know she has my back."// Paula smiles. "Thanks for coming through on the Tara vote, though." "Once you told me you were putting her name down," Buddy admits, "there wasn't a doubt in my mind about what I needed to do. You have a great opportunity here, now make good use of it." Before either of them could wrap up the conversation, Rocky emerges from the path leading to the Ochora camp. "Um... what are you doing here?" Rocky asks. "Wait, you don't know?" Buddy replies. "This is the Town Square, where all three tribes can meet. It's like a communal area, and it's on the way back from Tribal Council." "I did not know that was a thing." Rocky crosses his arms. "All I know is that Min-Ji went down here yesterday and told us it was a dead end." Paula raises an eyebrow. "And she didn't even bring back the flint?" "The what now?" //Rocky stares somewhere behind the camera with an icy glare. "So I gave Saul a hard time for not being able to make fire without flint. Min-Ji tells me we don't have flint. Now I'm finding out that not only is the flint right here for the taking, but Min-Ji left it here to make me look like a jerk. Well, you know what? I'm not here to be toyed with, and I'll see to it that she learns why nobody messes with me."// "Well, I'll be back later," Rocky says bluntly. "I have some smug, dishonest, backstabbing business to take care of." With that, he turns off and marches back to his camp, even angrier than Jackie was. Buddy turns back to Paula. "With any luck, the green tribe is going to start crumbling and we won't have to worry about saving each other." $o[**Ochora Tribe**] Candace is sitting by herself on the ground, in lotus position. She appears to be repeating some affirmations to herself. "I've made up my mind," she says softly. "Make a move... understand it's all in your head... it's your move..." //"This is a trying time for me," Candace admits. "I want to be in a new environment for a little while, maybe let it give me a new perspective. I've also been continuing my meditation, to keep my mental abilities fine tuned."// Candace continues to whisper to herself, not noticing Rocky tiptoeing from behind. "Give up on trying to sell things that they aren't buying." Rocky quickly taps her on the shoulder. Candace winces as if she had just stubbed her toe on the edge of the table, before turning around to face him. "Rocky," Candace says with a bit of bitterness, "I was in the middle of something. This better be worth it." "It definitely is," Rocky replies. "I found something BIG, and I need a witness before anything happens." Candace gets up. "This better not be a prank." "Why would I want to do that?" Rocky asks innocently. "It just seems like something you'd do," Candace responds. "How?! You've only known me for four days!" Rocky snaps. //"I'm confused as to why I suddenly have a terrible reputation," Rocky admits. "Somebody is trying to set me up. I have a feeling it's Min-Ji or Jarrett, and I wouldn't mind getting back at them 'cause they turned out to be bores."// Min-Ji, meanwhile, had called a tribe meeting with Jarrett, Ashleia, and Saul. "So, I have just a quick question for you all," Min-Ji says. "I think that we should be talking about who we end up voting out. Mainly because I'm not sure if we can make it to the swap without losing." Saul nods. "I... do not sense that happening. Which is why I think it would be best for us if we vote out Rocky first." "Definitely," Jarrett replies. "Rocky's a dick. We all know this. And he's really not that much stronger than Candace, so it's no question." "Inattentiveness is better to deal with than hostility," Min-Ji adds. //"I can't get a good read on Candace," Min-Ji says flatly. "She's juggling maybe three different personalities. But the truth of the matter is, at least none of those personalities are toxic, so that's why she's safe for now."// "Should we talk to Candace about this?" Saul asks. "She might feel hurt if we left her out of the discussion." Jarrett narrows his eyes. "I don't see why that's important. We have four, that's all that matters. If she doesn't vote Rocky, she's next anyways." "I've seen her with Rocky a lot recently," Min-Ji says. "As far as we should be concerned, they're basically aligned. Once Rocky's out it might be a different story." "Someone has to keep him occupied so he does not have time to look for an idol," says Saul. //"I am pleased that we can come to a consensus," Saul says with a hint of anxiety. "Although I can only help but to feel uncertain about how to deal with Candace. I do not agree with Jarrett's ideas of her in the slightest. She is no villain."// After the meeting, Min-Ji and Saul stay together to discuss their plans. "I think the four of us are a solid group," Min-Ji tells him. "We should be able to all make the swap, and if we can do that then we can rely on each other. As long as we can get rid of Rocky, we can't have them intimidated by having six Ochora hanging around." "Does this mean Candace would be the boot if we lose twice?" Saul asks. "I do not recommend we should be so quick to discard her." "Oh good, we're on the same page after all," says Min-Ji. She smiles. "Yeah, I didn't intend on us four staying together. I think what we should do is get Candace on OUR side and vote out Ashleia. She's an extra vote for Jarrett, and if we save Candace she'll be more loyal to us than to him." "Okay," says Saul. "You sound like you know what you are talking about. I urge you not to jump the gun, though. Rocky first, then Ashleia." //"Everyone has to go at some point," Min-Ji says with a smirk. "The Rocky vote will lull the others into a false sense of security, and then we can force the others' hands by voting out Ash. Then Jarrett and Candace will HAVE to side with us."// Jarrett is holding his own meeting with Ashleia in the shelter. "Um, Jarrett?" Ashleia asks. "Are we, like, really going to vote out Candace if we lose twice?" "I'm not totally sure on that," Jarrett admits. "To be perfectly honest, all three of them are expendable. It's just a matter of who we can hold on to for longer. Are Min-Ji and Saul worth voting Candace out over?" "I don't know," says Ashleia. "We can figure it out," Jarrett continues, "IF we get to that point. I'd like it if we can just get rid of Rocky and have the five of us dominate the other tribes." //"I'm really not comfortable with leaving this up to chance," says Ashleia. "Like, anyone would tell you that I don't go to Vegas to win. I mean, what if we lose twice, and then they vote me out because I'm not very strong and they want a stronger group?"// "Ugh, it would be so much better if the other tribes, like, could talk to us." Ashleia shakes her head. "We don't want to, like, just trust that Candace won't flip. And maybe someone else will want to flip, so if we could just, like, make sure it's to us." "We can only think about what we can do on this tribe," says Jarrett. "Wishful thinking won't get us anywhere." "But are we doing the right thing?" Ashleia asks. "Don't worry about that," says Jarrett. "Let me do the talking, you worry about making sure the others aren't trying anything behind our backs." //"Ashleia, she's... trying real hard." Jarrett shrugs. "Which is more than I can say for some people here. We hold the power here, so if the others can just continue to not see the bigger picture then making merge should be smooth sailing. And from there... we'll have to see what I can do at the swap."// $c[**Chalpe**] "Look who found the flint!" The light pink tribe turns their heads to see Buddy triumphantly returning to the campsite. He is holding flint in one hand. "It was on the way back from tribal council. I'll explain later, for now we need to get started on a fire." "Great news!" Lisa cheers. "We mustn't dilly-dally in making a place for the fire to go!" Jennifer picks up the machete and walks it over to Buddy. "Think you can get a flame going?" "Oh, definitely." Buddy takes the machete and waits for Lisa, Denine, and Rhett to bring over a few dried twigs and other kindling. //"Whoop dee doo, flint," says Louie. "Not a big deal for me, since I have natural insulation. Maybe now at least they won't have the temptation to sleep on top of me." He rolls his eyes. "Yes, they are still doing it."// Buddy tries his hardest to get a fire started by striking the machete against the flint, harshly and deliberately. To his irritation, nothing was catching. "You're striking the flint, not chopping it up," says Denine. "I see sparks," Buddy replies, "I got this." A minute later, Denine speaks up again. "You're still not making any progress." Buddy annoyedly puts down the flint and machete, and stands up. "Look, Denine, if you know so much about how to start a fire with a knife and flint, why don't you do it?" "I will, just watch," says Denine. She takes the tools for herself and gets to work. //"Some things aren't cut and dry," Buddy explains, "when nature has a thousand different variables to make your life more difficult. Denine apparently didn't realize that, and I can't stand having overly critical people like her breathing down my neck and putting even more pressure on me."// Denine attempts to get a spark by going slowly and methodically, ensuring she gets the right angle every time. After a few minutes, Buddy gets annoyed. "Look, you're just doing the same thing I was," he says, "only slower. You haven't even got any sparks to show for it either." "This takes time," Denine snaps. "What, are you waiting for a sign from the heavens?" Buddy snaps back. "We're moving BACKWARDS in terms of progress!" "I know what I'm doing! At least when I do get a spark, it will actually ignite!" Jennifer gets up and walks over to the fire pit. "Alright, both of you, shut up. You're wasting energy arguing that you could use, oh I don't know, actually helping us." "Tell Buddy to get off my back," Denine tells her. "Me, getting off YOUR back? You dragged us into this!" Buddy argues. //"The honeymoon was short, our tribe is falling apart," says Rhett with a sigh. "Was this group hand picked to fail? I feel like anything could have set those two off, and it might not get better."// Lisa pulls Louie aside to talk to him alone. "I am ashamed that some of our tribemates have fallen to this level of animosity," she says with a tinge of disappointment. "I believe we should discuss if we should vote out one of the two squabblers." "I already wanted to vote out Buddy," says Louie. "He's a glory-seeking little brat." "I don't appreciate your word choice," Lisa replies. "We should not stoop to their level. Regardless, what are your considerations with regards to voting Denine?" Denine, who was standing nearby, calls out "Don't even! Take that thought right out of your head." "Oh, Denine! I apologize profusely!" says Lisa. "It was merely a hypothetical! I have no qualms with voting Buddy." //"I quite nearly got myself in a predicament there," Lisa explains. "Denine was quite tense, and I did not intend her to witness me suggesting she be eliminated. Fortunately for her, this is not with a tribal council incoming."// Lisa leaves to discuss a similar prospect with Rhett and Jennifer, while Denine sits down with Louie. "I wouldn't mind voting either out, actually," says Denine. "Lisa... ugh there's just something about her. She's so cutesy it's irritating." Louie nods. "It's a sort of sugary innocence that I suppose is supposed to be endearing?" "Endearing, more like punchable," Denine replies. "Is she really worse than Buddy?" Louie asks. Denine stops to think for a moment. //"I'm beginning to wonder if we're spoiled for choice when it comes to who we should vote out," Denine admits, "or I'm just growing to dislike everyone, one person at a time. Either way I won't feel guilt when it comes time to start mowing people down."// $q[**Quibas**] "Monty, you have a minute?" Monty turns his head to see Jackie walking up to him. "Sure, I guess," Monty replies. "I want to apologize for going against you," Jackie explains. "I kind of went, like, haywire. We should maybe work together instead of fighting." Monty takes a deep breath before responding. "Why should I go with you?" "Paula and Vaclav are both young and fit," Jackie explains. "They're going to gravitate towards each other, and it only makes sense that if something goes south, they're going to try to cut you loose first. If you go with them, you're at the bottom. Side with me, and Khall is nothing to be worried about." //"Well, I guess it's a good thing that Jackie wants ta bury the hatchet," says Monty. "She got some smarts to her after all. But I'm not going to trust her completely."// "One down, two to go," Jackie says to Khall. "What do you mean?" asks her purple-clad ally. "Seeing as that the two of us are together, and the other three only came together to get Tara out," Jackie explains, "then it's worth trying to get them all to turn on each other. They can't trust each other, because if they do then they'll take it easy and we might lose again." "There's something wrong with your logic," Khall replies, "but I'm not exactly sure what it is." "That's because it's flawless," says Jackie. "I've thought about this, and it's what we have to do." //"Khall is a dimwit, but at least he's a useful one," says Jackie. "With him, I have two votes for the price of one since I'm the one making all the decisions."// Paula crosses her arms while listening to Jackie tell her about the importance of having a truce. "Don't you remember how close we used to be?" Jackie adds to her increasingly lengthy monologue. "I thought we had something, and I want to know if we can get that magic back." "Yeah, sorry, I voted her out already," Paula replies bluntly. "No, I don't mean Tara!" Jackie protests. "I mean us being a duo. We could go back to the plan we had!" Paula hums while looking upwards. "I... maybe. I'll have to think about it." "This again? You know, I can just tell the boys that I'm up to side with them after all," says Jackie. //"My mom once told me that some people think like sports cars, quick and flashy," Paula explains. "Other people are like pickup trucks, steady and reliable. I'm the pickup truck, finding the path that's right for me, while Jackie is the sports car that's out of control and about to be wrapped around a tree somewhere."// Jackie concludes her efforts by talking to Vaclav, this time bringing Khall with her. "Paula and Monty have a strong bond, you know," Jackie explains. "Paula's the one who jumped to Monty's defense before you did. Aren't you concerned that they might be, I don't know, using you?" "Maybe a little," Vaclav admits. "But why would you be better? You two are solid! I'll just be third to you guys!" "You're already third to them," Jackie counters. "They just wanted to make sure that Monty didn't leave. And now he's still here and they can kidnap someone to give them the numbers, so they don't need you anymore." "Isn't that what you want to do as well?" Vaclav crosses his arms and tries to look stern, but still comes across as jittery. Khall turns his head to Jackie. "Yeah, I thought that was your plan." "NO IT'S NOT," Jackie says abruptly. She turns to Vaclav. "Don't listen to him! You're overestimating how much they care about you. They just wanted an excuse to vote off Tara, and you gave them the perfect one. And now how do they know you won't go crazy on one of them? What makes you think they'll take that risk?" //"Jackie makes some good points, as much as I don't want to believe it," says Vaclav. "How do I know that Monty and Paula aren't just going to use me and then toss me aside? But why wouldn't Jackie and Khall do the same thing? Paula might have helped me get Tara out before she could hurt me, but I know they don't believe how serious that was! Do they see me as a joke?" He buries his face in his hands.// $t[**Town Square**] "So this is it?" Candace asks. "Rocky, what's the point of it?" "Remember yesterday, when Min-Ji went down this same path and said it was a dead end?" Rocky replies. Candace nods. "Wait... that was a straight path, there weren't any branches she could have taken." "Then she clearly lied to us," says Rocky. //"I gotta make sure Candace has all the facts, the real ones, from ME, before she takes someone else's side," Rocky explains. "They're scheming something good back there, and I'm not going to sit pretty and let them walk over me. So as Candace as my witness, I will smash anyone who doubts me into the dirt."// "I guess you weren't making this up as some sort of distraction," Candace admits. "This is called the Town Square?" "Right," says Rocky, "but don't tell anyone else." "It's not really a square," says Candace. "Not that I want it to be one. Squares are so... artificial, and they can scar the earth in their bluntness, you know?" "I really don't," Rocky replies. "Hey, they have a little podium for each tribe, let's see what the green one says." Candace walks over to the Ochora podium, only to find her tribe's flint. "What the hell? Why is it all the way over here?" she asks. Rocky shrugs. "It was here when I got there, and the other tribes said it was like that for them too." Candace considers whether this might be a bluff, but ultimately decides she has no reason to think so. "Then if Min-Ji was here like you said, why didn't she take it?" "Because she didn't want us to be talking to other tribes," says Rocky. He crosses his arms and smirks. "That way, she doesn't have to worry about anyone saying voting me out first isn't the best idea." "Your justification is dead wrong," says Candace. "But I guess if she wants to be the leader, then she wants to make sure she can oversee everything?" "Whatever it is," Rocky replies, "she's sabotaging the tribe. Whether she intends to or not." //"I have noticed that Rocky has a sickly aura," says Candace. "It is one that seeks only to destroy and inflict grief. He is no fool, though, and if ridding our tribe of him is not guaranteed, it helps to know that I'm his confidant, the one who will not be in harm's way if this... darkness manifests."// [[Day 5<-Read Day 5]]

**Day 5** $o[**Ochora**] Candace is by herself, sitting on a treestump, meditating again. This time she is interrupted by Min-Ji. "Hey, is everything alright with you?" Min-Ji asks. "It's been a while since we've seen you not be with Rocky." "I guess I've been stuck keeping an eye on him, so he doesn't cause any funny business," Candace explains. "Just as pollution will poison the earth when released, so too will he poison this tribe's feng shui." Min-Ji scratches her head, trying to figure out what Candace means. "Well, I guess the more important question is what's Rocky up to?" "I didn't say I was his babysitter," Candace replies dryly. //"Okay, seriously?" Candace crosses her arms. "What is with this tribe and blocking every attempt I make to reconnect with Mother Gaia? I need some kind of release once in a while!"// "But what if he finds an idol?" Min-Ji asks. "If you're so worried about it, maybe you should pitch in and help me out," Candace snaps. "That goes for all four of you, by the way." "We all have our roles here," says Min-Ji. "Sorry that yours isn't the most glamorous, but it has to be done." "So, what's your role?" comes a voice from behind them. Min-Ji and Candace turn around and see Rocky, glaring directly at Min-Ji. "Hiding the flint from the whole tribe so we all STARVE?" Rocky growls. "What a role! You're so helpful, Min-Ji!" "This isn't about you, Rocky," Min-Ji snaps. "Okay, one, you're full of shit," Rocky nearly yells. "Two, I'm making it about you now. You think you can get away with just hiding the season's big twist from everyone? "I have no idea what you're talking about!" says Min-Ji, her tone getting angrier as well. "Candace, what the hell did you tell him!?" "Excuse me, what do you mean what did I tell him?" Candace yells. "He's a major tool, sure, but I'm not the one who fed him lies!" //"This is why I needed a stable four and not three," says Min-Ji. "You get stuff like this happening. I figured that maybe Candace wouldn't be dumb enough to completely fall into Rocky's hands, but heeeere we go! Might need to go after her and not Ashleia if she's going to stick with this nonsense!"// Jarrett, Saul, and Ashleia then arrive, having ran as fast as they could. "We heard yelling," says Saul. "What is happening over here, should we be concerned?" Min-Ji starts to explain herself, but Rocky merely holds out the flint for them all to see. "What the... where did you get that?" Jarrett asks, stunned. "And why did you hide that from us?" "Min-Ji was the one who hid this!" Rocky explains. "There's this big space down the path where she said was a dead end, and that's where I found a flint for each tribe! The other tribes at least weren't dumb enough to leave theirs behind!" "You're bluffing!" Min-Ji snaps. "This is some last-ditch effort to save yourself from the inevitable conclusion that you're out next because you're a douchecanoe!" The rest of the tribe (minus Candace) nods. "Well screw you guys!" Rocky growls. "Sorry that I'm not going to bend over for you all! I'm here to win, and ALL of you should know better than to not mess with me! Especially you, Min-Ji, how dare you tarnish my name to make yourself look good-" "It was already tarnished," say Min-Ji and Jarrett at the same time. "Shut up!" Rocky snaps. "Min-Ji, you're the one who's been making us all starve for your own little strategy! You could have just gotten the flint from there but noooo!" Min-Ji turns to Candace. "Why did you let this happen? What's this Town Square bull about?" Candace's eyes lit up. "So you ARE full of it! How did you know what it was called?" "I never called it by name!" Rocky adds. "Hey, no fair! You could have said that no matter what!" Min-Ji calls back. "All's fair in love and war, sweetheart," says Rocky. //"Here we see the sneaky Min-Ji backed into a corner," says Rocky, with a fake Australian accent. "Crikey, there's no escape from the ferocious Rocky armed with the TRUTH! It should be obvious, but this will definitely be the first of many that I take down!"// "If you want proof, why don't you just walk down the path that Min-Ji insisted was a dead end?" says Candace. "You can't vote me out just because I might have gotten lost!" Min-Ji snaps. "Isn't it more likely that Rocky's just been hiding the flint the entire time?" "It's really not, but nice try, thanks for playing." Rocky smirks. "Rocky, we still have five votes to get rid of you," says Saul. "Even if you kidnap your biggest fan, you will have to admit defeat." "Never!" //"I had another vision," says Saul. "I felt anguish and tension, and saw a house of cards collapsing. This might mean Ochora is going to collapse... but please let that be after we vote Rocky out. There's always a swap to look forward to, and if that is when it happens then I will be okay."// A little later, Min-Ji, Saul, and Jarrett broke away from the argument after it devolved into Rocky replying to everything with "No, you!" "See, this is why I'm glad the four of us are together," says Jarrett. "Rocky is nothing but trouble, and Candace is just enabling him now." "Yeah, let's just take them out," says Min-Ji. "Do you think we should try to split the vote since Candace clearly hasn't actually been watching Rocky?" Jarrett shakes his head. "That would be opening us up to the kidnapped person siding with them. We need to be solid. But should we really target Rocky, or try to flush an idol by voting Candace?" "I do not believe he has an idol," says Saul. "Better safe than sorry." //"If Rocky is going to be this difficult for Min-Ji to deal with, then the enemy of my enemy is my friend," says Jarrett. "If we could get Candace out when we lose, then use Rocky to toss Min-Ji and Saul, that would be glorious."// "We should ask Ashleia what she thinks, first," says Saul. "Wait, where is she?" Jarrett asks. "Wasn't she there when Rocky was having a tantrum?" "I thought she was with you!" Min-Ji's eyes widen. //"At least I'm not the only one who just assumed she was there," Min-Ji says. "It's not a good look, though. Although as long as she doesn't see it, she won't really put two and two together."// $c[**Chalpe**] Jennifer and Rhett are standing in a creek they found some distance away from camp, trying to catch fish by closing in on them and snatching them out of the water. "This doesn't seem to be working," says Jennifer. "We HAVE fishing gear, you know, there's no reason we should be getting our pants wet." "I tried to use the gear for five hours yesterday, and I didn't get a single bite," Rhett replies. "Do you have any better ideas?" "Maybe a little bit more patience?" Jennifer suggests. "My stomach disagrees." //"Rhett is really down to earth in a way nobody else on this tribe is," says Jennifer. "All four of the others have good reasons to be voted off, I think. I can't say the same for Rhett, so whatever I decide on doing, I'd like him to be in the know."// After another unsuccessful grab, Rhett looks up to face Jennifer, but she begins to speak first. "Hey, Rhett, I'm thinking I might volunteer to be the tribe leader," she explains. "What have you been doing for the past five days?" Rhett jokes. Jennifer chuckles. "I guess you're right. But I want you to be my partner in crime, because I trust you to be sane and collected while everyone else continues to fight amongst each other." Rhett nods. "I don't see why not. Never hurts to have a stable partnership. I can trust you, can't I?" "You can," says Jennifer. //"I have my doubts about this," says Rhett. "Jennifer may be a good ally to have, but she's already come off fairly strong. I know Buddy has told me how she's already starting to annoy him. If Jennifer isn't getting respect as a tribe leader, should I really be advocating for her to lead?"// "Well, who should we vote if we lose?" Rhett asks. "Surely you have some kind of plan." "I think it would have to be Louie," Jennifer explains. "Sure, he's a strong swimmer, but on land he's pretty weak. The first challenge was water-based, future ones he might be slowing us down." "If you're talking about strength," Rhett replies, "I think Lisa might be the better bet. She's admitted she isn't much of a swimmer, and she's not that much better than Louie otherwise." Jennifer looks to the side. "Yeah, I guess, but Lisa's done nothing to make us angry at her... like all three of the others have." "Speaking of which, is Buddy really as bad as Denine and Louie claim he is?" Rhett asks. "Sure, he's a downer, and he has a knack for looking down on people. The thing is, those two are starting to swing the same way." "As long as they're not in cahoots," says Jennifer. "But if we don't vote Louie, we can't really go after Denine either, since they're already a pair." "But if we vote Louie," says Rhett, "then Denine will be furious and-" He stops mid-sentence, and points at a fish swimming at around his ankles. Both Rhett and Jennifer rush to reach down and try to grab it, only to bash their heads together. "Don't worry, I got it!" Rhett rubs his head and stands up, only to see the fish was caught not by Jennifer, but by Khall. "Wait, aren't you on Quibas?" Rhett asks. "He is," says Jennifer. "What are you doing here?" Khall stays silent for a few seconds. "Well... can I keep the fish?" $q[**Quibas**] //"Okay, so I don't know where Khall has been today," says Jackie, "but truth be told does it look like I care? I have more important things to worry about – making the majority freak out with a fake immunity idol made by yours truly."// "Now that I have a shot of turning things around," Jackie mutters while putting the finishing touches on her fake idol, "maybe I can lull someone into a false sense of security. And then, if they try to split the votes, then we just get the kidnapper to vote with us!" She smiles as she places her idol in the dirt. "I can just see the pain on their faces when they try to play this..." She then runs to hide behind a bush and see if someone will find it. Sure enough, she notices Monty arriving back at camp with some firewood. Monty notices the fake idol, barely hidden at all, and picks it up. //"I know Jackie wanted me out last time," says Monty, "so an idol might be just what I need to make sure she doesn't do it again." He spits on the ground. "Real shame that all I found was a rock tied to a stick."// Monty sees Jackie hiding in the bush and walks over to her. "Hey, Jackie, I found an idol! You want it?" Jackie curses under her breath, before getting up. "Monty, you touched it first, so it's yours, isn't it?" "I think you need to trust us more," says Monty. "Consider this a token of good will, since we're working together now, right?" As the two continue to offer each other the fake, Vaclav arrives and picks it up where Monty was sitting. "Is this the idol they're talking about?" Vaclav wonders aloud. "It doesn't totally look like one, but those two aren't stupid." His brow furrows. "Is this a setup? Is there some twist attached to it that could hurt my game? What if Khall saw me pick this up!? Oh god. I can't use this. I need to deal with this. Fire. Into the fire!" Vaclav hurls the fake idol into the fire, to the horror of Jackie and Monty, who turn around in time to see it. "MY FAKE IDOL!" Jackie and Monty both cry out at the same time. Vaclav looks back over to his tribemates. "Wait, are you two serious?" //"I'm just as lost as I was when I thought it could be a real idol," says Vaclav. "Did that make sense to anyone else?"// $t[**Town Square**] Paula paces around in front of the torches. "Where could he be? I thought we agreed on this time of day." She stops to reflect on whether she worded things correctly when someone taps her shoulder. She turns around to be face to hood with Khall. "Heya, Paula!" he says cheerfully. "Looking for someone?" Paula shrugs. "Wondering if they're going to show, as well." "So I guess it's someone on another tribe," says Khall. "Oh, that blond boy on the pink tribe that voted with us!" "Why would it be him?" Paula asks, nervously fidgeting behind her back. "We shouldn't be putting all our eggs in one basket." "You're not a very good liar," Khall says flatly. "I'm not-" Khall extends a gloved finger to her lips. "Don't worry, I think I know." Paula's eyes go wide in horror. "Paula has a boooyfrieeeeend!" teases Khall, waggling his eyebrows. //"I think my heart skipped a beat," says Paula, "if not a whole measure. I thought I was done before I had even started. But luckily, Khall seems to be innocent and harmless. Unless he knows the truth and is willing to spill, right now I would rather keep him over Jackie."// The two hear a sudden shout from the direction of their camp. "What was that!? Should we go check it out?" Paula asks, her face slightly pale. Khall shakes his head. "I don't think we should. It's best that they work it out themselves, and if it was really important the whole tribe would be there." "I don't think it works like that," says Paula. "You're right," Khall replies. "I forgot that sometimes one person is left out of the loop for comedic purposes." "No!" //"I'm trying to be friendly with Paula, since I think she's the thinker of her group," says Khall. "So if we can't get someone to flip, then hopefully Paula can say that I'm worth keeping over Jackie. I didn't want to think about turning on someone so soon, but desperate times call for desperate measures."// "What are you two so worked up about?" The pair turns to see someone approaching from a different camp. "Oh, hi," says Paula. "I don't believe we've met. What's your name?" "My name's Ashleia Berns!" Ashleia says cheerfully. "I'm on the Ochora tribe. It rhymes with Laura!" "I know how to say your tribe's name," says Paula, raising an eyebrow. "Well, at the start I used to forget," Ashleia replies. "That helped me remember." "Geez, don't be so insensitive, Paula." Khall pokes Paula in the arm. Ashleia looks around. "So... what is this place, anyways? I'm not at your camp, right?" "You've never been to the Town Square before?" Paula asks. Ashleia stops to think for a moment. "No, but, like, we thought someone on our tribe was lying about it. So, I snuck out to take a look for myself! And I guess it's real." "But you already got the flint," says Khall. "You sure you thought it was made up?" "Oh... OH! He's right about everything then!" Ashleia claps politely for herself a couple times. "Everything's coming together! I have to go tell Jarrett!" [[Day 6<-Read Day 6]]

**Day 6 Immunity Challenge** Vincent welcomes each tribe to the challenge beach, before showing them a replica of a //quipu//, or a recording device consisting of spun and knotted threads attached to a single string or wooden bar. He describes the next challenge as dealing with the devices, but instead of using the quipu as a counting device, one person on each tribe will be using them as a key to a block puzzle. Each tribe has a wall consisting of twenty blocks sticking out of it that can be pushed and pulled into it. Each block needs to be pushed or pulled a certain amount to open up a space inside the wall that a ball can roll through. The first tribe to roll a ball behind every block in a single run wins immunity and comfort in the form of blankets. The second tribe to do so only wins immunity, and the third tribe goes to tribal council. Quipu Readers: $c[Rhett], $o[Ashleia], $q[Paula] Puzzle Solvers: $c[Buddy, Jennifer, Lisa, Louie] $o[Candace, Jarrett, Min-Ji, Rocky] $q[Jackie, Khall, Monty, Vaclav] Sit-outs: $c[Denine], $o[Saul] At the last second, the quipu readers are given a cruel twist - their quipu each have 24 strings, each of the puzzle solvers is given a number that matches the number of a string that should be ignored, and they cannot use words to tell the reader which strings are to be ignored. Paula decides to go one block at a time, realizing there are about five relative positions for a knot on each string. Rhett assigns five blocks to each puzzle solver Ashleia first tries to get everyone to tell them what number they have through charades The challenge proves to be slow, but Paula's one-at-a-time approach lets Quibas make progress faster Rhett starts out with Louie and the first five blocks. When Louie finishes his section, Ashleia is still playing charades to find the dummy strings, and Paula is already at string 11 When Ashleia has determined all four numbers, she lays her quipu on the ground and hides the four dummy strings. She then copies Paula's strategy of going string by string. As Rhett and Buddy finish the second section, Paula is at string 19 and Ashleia is already at string 5 Rhett and Jennifer get to work on the third section, but while they do that Ashleia reaches her tenth string and Paula finishes with the last string. Paula gestures to Khall to try rolling the ball through, but Khall trips over the ball instead. Vaclav picks it up and trips over Khall. Rhett and Ashleia reach their 15th string at the same time, while Jackie places the ball at its starting position and lets it go through. The ball successfully rolls through the tunnel on the first go, meaning $q[Quibas wins immunity and blankets!] Ashleia proves to be slightly faster at interpreting the quipu than Rhett, and finishes up while Rhett is on his 22nd string. She gets Min-Ji to try to roll the ball through... ...it bounces out the back end of the puzzle about halfway through. Ashleia races to the quipu to try and figure out which one she messed up. Chalpe is delighted by the opportunity to steal the win, but discover that Rhett also made a mistake. A few minutes of frantic double-checking later, and one tribe manages to correct their mistakes and roll their ball through first. $c[Chalpe wins immunity!] $o[Ochora loses, and will have to vote out someone at tribal council] Ochora is instructed to pick someone from the Quibas tribe to join them, but before anyone can debate, Rocky picks Paula. Paula tells her tribe "I'll be fine, see you tonight." and heads off with Ochora. $o[**Ochora**] The green tribe and Paula gather in the shelter. "Well, that could have gone better," says Jarrett. "I don't know how it was so hard for the rest of you," Paula chimes in. "We don't need to hear how much better you are than us," Min-Ji interrupts. "Just let us resolve something. Where did your tribe get flint?" Paula briefly considers telling the truth, but decides against it. She shrugs. "I didn't find it, I'm not the one you should be asking." "You found it at the Town Square, right?" Candace asks. "Candace, it's obvious you're trying to cover for Rocky," says Min-Ji. "Even Paula doesn't know-" "Screw you, Min-Ji!" Candace snaps. "Screw you! You're a crap liar, a crap leader, and you're a crap..." She pauses. "You're a bitch!" With that, Candace stands up and storms off. "Boy, you sure settled that argument," says Rocky. //"I try to keep a cool head," Candace explains, "but there's only so much hostility and dishonesty that I can take. And as obnoxious as Rocky is, I'm getting scared of Min-Ji showing her true colours. One of them has to leave tonight."// "Rocky," Saul says gently, "it is no longer about the missing flint. We are concerned about your attitude." "Pssh, my attitude's fine!" Rocky protests. "I just don't work with fakes and liars." "Everyone lies in Survivor, dumbass," says Jarrett. "This is exactly what we're talking about," says Min-Ji. "Because if we were talking about the flint still, you'd have to admit you were wrong," Rocky snaps. "I get it now." Saul holds his head. "Guys... I'm getting something..." "Yeah, a reality check," says Rocky. "Min-Ji, I'm putting your name down tonight. You have nobody to blame but yourself." "I'm shaking," says Min-Ji sarcastically, as Rocky gets up and leaves. //"I only have one shot to survive tonight," says Rocky. "Tonight, that's exposing Min-Ji as someone who's been destroying us from the inside. If these morons are as gullible as they are with her, they're dumb enough to turn on her."// "Okay, I had envisioned two bales of hay," Saul explains to the remaining players. "One of which was sliced through with a green knife, and the other had some sort of critter pulled out of it." "So basically, one scenario in which you split the vote and one in which you all gang up on Rocky," says Paula. "That is indeed what I interpret it as," says Saul. "But then... there was a fire and one of the hay bales turned to ash." "Which one was it?" Ashleia asks. "I... do not know," Saul admits. "Rocky was yelling about his vote around that time so I lost focus." "Can you just try and focus, see if you can remember?" asks Min-Ji. "Min-Ji, I am not a DVR," replies Saul. //"I would like to believe my vision justifies our plan to vote out Rocky," Saul explains. "Although now I fear we will never know. Funnily enough, that is another reason to vote him out."// "Do you ever get sequels to your visions?" Ashleia asks. "Hmm... yes. But they always occur when the incident in question has occurred, and I cannot intervene any longer." "Oh, so like when movie studios let terrible movies get sequels!" Ashleia nods. "I get it now." "...right." Saul gets up and dusts off his pants. "I am continuing to vote Rocky out tonight, maybe without him I will have the peace to see a whole vision again." He walks off, and Min-Ji hurries to follow him. Ashleia, Jarrett, and Paula are left in the shelter. "Jarrett, what should we do?" Ashleia asks. "Like, I think if we all vote together we get to decide." "I'm fine with whatever you guys want," says Paula. "I'd rather not be responsible, if you know what I mean." Jarrett nods. "I know what we should do." //"Tonight, I have two choices," says Jarrett. "First, I can side with Min-Ji and eliminate Rocky. That will keep those two happy, at least. But I could use Rocky and draw first blood with Min-Ji, eliminating a rival. The only problem is that Saul will be mad... If he's capable of anger... but at least then he and Min-Ji don't have time to think of backstabbing me first. It all comes down to whether Rocky is more useful than the Min-Ji and Saul duo."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The Ochora Tribe, with Paula, walks into the tribal council building. The Ochora members ignite their torches during Vincent's fire-is-life spiel, while Paula merely places hers behind the seats when she sits down. The members of Ochora then turn to join her. $v["Jarrett, give me a rundown of what has happened at your tribe in the past six days."] "We got to camp, we didn't have a fire for a little while," says Jarrett, "and then Rocky claims he found it and that Min-Ji knew about it but didn't bring it." "Since we got our torches from the Town Square," Rocky interjects, "it's not a claim anymore. We know it's a fact." Min-Ji rolls her eyes. "Ooh no, I told one little fib to make sure you didn't get the idol. A real tragedy for the rest of us." "You owe us three days' worth of cooked rice," Rocky mutters. $v["Min-Ji, are you targeting Rocky over this?"] "I'm targeting Rocky because he's an obnoxious man-child," says Min-Ji. "He's impossible to work with or talk to." $v["Those are some big words, Rocky. How do you respond to that?"] "By voting against her," says Rocky. "She nearly sank the tribe, after all." "Okay, I didn't starve you guys!" Min-Ji snaps. "We had plenty of food." "However crunchy." Rocky rolls his eyes. "You know, from being RAW and all." $v["Ashleia, you had the key role in today's challenge that sent you guys here. Looking at this, do you think you might be in danger regardless?"] "I, like, hope not," says Ashleia, twirling a few strands of hair with her finger. "I think it's too early to be looking at how strong you are at everything." "Challenges are always a concern," says Paula. "It's what stops you from coming back here." "Yeah, I know that much," Ashleia replies. "But, like, how many more keep-a-boo challenges will we have?" "Ashleia, the word you want is //quipu,//" says Saul. "That doesn't make any sense, though." Ashleia trails off, trying to figure out what word Saul said with a weird accent. $v["Candace, should Ashleia be worried? How does the challenge affect tonight's decision?"] "Not very much," Candace admits. "Rocky and Min-Ji have been bickering and fighting for a little while now. We all kind of want to vote one of them out for some peace and quiet." "Trust me, if you don't vote him out the last thing you'll have is peace and quiet," says Min-Ji. "You can't silence the truth forever," Rocky snaps. "Both of you, shut up before they call in security," says Jarrett, suddenly very stern. $v["Well, okay then. And with that, time to vote. Paula, do you want to give up immunity?"] "No way, not with this going on." Paula crosses her arms. $v["Then it's time to vote. Saul, you're up first."] ... Min-Ji reveals her vote to be for **Rocky**. "I'd hate to be there if your delusions come crashing down." Rocky reveals his vote to be for **Min-Ji**. "You're shady, AND you're a killjoy! That's what I call a two-for-one." ... $votesarein $v["Rocky."] $v["Min-Ji. That is one vote for Min-Ji and one vote for Rocky."] $v["Next vote... Min-Ji."] "Thanks, Candace." Min-Ji glares at her. "You know this just means you're next." "Bring it," says Candace. $v["Rocky. We are tied again with two votes each."] "The moment of truth is upon us," Saul mumbles. $v["Min-Ji. She leads with three."] Rocky smirks. $v["Second $boot is... Min-Ji. You need to bring me your torch."] Min-Ji turns around quickly to face Jarrett. "What the hell was that!?" "What does it look like?" Jarrett smirks. "Pre-emptive strike." "There's pre-emptive strikes," says Min-Ji, getting up, "and there's being a moron." She takes her torch and walks it to in front of Vincent. $v["Min-Ji, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent extinguishes the young Korean woman's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] "I look forward to seeing you join me," says Min-Ji. "Yeah, right," says Rocky. $v["Tonight, it appears you chose the enemy you knew over the enemy you did not,"] says Vincent. $v["Was Min-Ji right about this being premature, or will this prove to be the right move after all? You can head back to camp."] $o[//"What is that tribe smoking? Why on Earth would they keep Rocky over me? Why him over ANYONE?" Min-Ji groans. "I can't believe they're keeping him as a meat shield. Well guess what, you're going to need it when you lose again! What a bunch of snakes."//] Voting Results: ''Min-Ji - Ashleia, Candace, Jarrett, $q[Paula], Rocky'' Rocky – Min-Ji, Saul [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

(set: $crazy to (colour: #33ff33)) A young, blond-haired man wearing a buttoned blue jacket shuffled through some papers. He was sitting behind a desk with two empty chairs across from him. A folder in front of him had the label "Profiles - 3". $v["I think I have everything ready,"] he said. He looked up to address the camera. $v["Viewers, I believe the third season is upon us. So, to help me show you all what you're in for, I've brought in a special guest."] He looked behind the camera. $v["Come in!"] The camera swivelled so that the man was sitting on the left side of the screen. A TV screen was mounted to the wall now facing the camera. Another figure entered the view of the camera, this one with a humanoid body structure but otherwise resembling a gray cat. She was wearing a white and green baseball cap, a plain red t-shirt, and blue shorts. The tip of her tail dragged on the carpeted floor behind her as she walked casually to one of the empty chairs - now on the right side - and sat down. "Pleasure to be here again, Vincent," she said cheerfully. $v["Pleasure to have you back,"] Vincent replied. $v["In case you didn't know, I am Vincent Boucher, the host and associate producer of Survivor: Mint Version. Here with me today is Tipper Masterson, the sole survivor of our first season. She's here to help me comment on the cast for our third season."] Tipper nodded. "Inca Legacy, right?" $v["It is,"] said Vincent. $v["Eighteen castaways in the highlands of eastern Peru. Not only are they fighting to survive in the wilderness, but they will be getting the tiniest glimpse of how some civilizations prospered in the exact same conditions."] "Wait a minute, will they be doing challenges or anything like that in actual native ruins?" Tipper asked. $v["We have a dynamic cast in store for you all,"] Vincent said, ignoring Tipper, $v["and we've prepared just enough surprises to keep both the players and the audience on their toes. Let's not waste any more time."] "You nailed that introduction," said Tipper. "You didn't stumble over your words or miss something even once." Vincent crumpled a piece of paper and tossed it at Tipper. It bounced off her nose and fell into her lap. "Hey, rude." $v["You sure are."] Vincent smirked, and shook his head. Quite suddenly the pair noticed a strange shade of green emanating from the wall. A loud bang was heard, and on the wall appeared a circular green wormhole. Vincent looked nonchalantly at the wormhole. $v["You’ve got to be kidding me,"] he sighed. $v["I thought I told him none of that wormholey sci-fi sh-"] Two figures exploded out of the wormhole, one wearing a purple buttoned up shirt with a matching cap and blue jean shorts. He lost his hat upon entering revealing a smooth head of no hair. His eyes darted back and forth, looking anxious after the experience. The second figure appeared halfway out of the wormhole, grinning like a slasher villain and adorned with goggles over his eyes and blazing green hair. $crazy["Hot diggity!"] said the green clad lad. $crazy["That’s how you travel!"] The young bald man looked more annoyed than grateful as he brushed his hat. "You know, I really think you need to stop assuming people enjoy traveling like that!" $crazy["Ahhh, c’mon!"] said the green haired man. $crazy["You were running late. This was the only way to get you here on time!"] $v["He’s //my// guest, cRaZy,"] said Vincent. $v["He has the address, there’s nothing wrong with him getting here on his own two feet."] He looked down at his desk. $v["And now my files are blown all across the room."] The green man just shrugged his shoulders and shook his head. $crazy["Yeah, yeah, whatever."] He then turned and looked back up. $crazy["Say, I was gonna go get a slurpee! Does anyone want one?"] "We’re GOOD, thanks." The purple kid groaned. "I’ll call you when this is over!" $crazy["Suit yourself, buddy."] cRaZy bowed over-dramatically, then turned around and dove deeper into the vortex. The wormhole closed with a pants zipper sound. "Man, that guy is so strange..." sighed the young man. $v["Well, you’re here, Oliver, and that’s the important part."] Vincent gestured to the empty seat next to Tipper, before turning to the camera. $v["We also have Oliver Oreals here with us. He was the runner-up of last season, Survivor: Shuffle Island. Now, let's start off with the first castaway."] The TV turned on, first displaying the season logo before switching to a picture of an attractive young woman with long blonde hair, vibrant green eyes, and a glowing smile. She was wearing a diamond necklace, and she appeared to be wearing a light pink top. (The photo did not show below her chest, which would reveal it to be a short dress.) ''Ashleia Berns $o[thebigJET]'' $v["Ashleia is a model who has a strategy of being adaptable and independent,"] said Vincent, $v["but she'll most likely have some trouble fitting in. See, she's a very wealthy person, and has been her whole life. She knows what to expect coming onto the show, but she's totally out of touch when it comes to what her tribemates see as necessities and luxuries. Ashleia will need to rely on her caring personality, and possibly her good looks, if she wants to be taken seriously."] "Hmm, I want to think she has a chance if she can remain on the positive side of things, but if she starts prattling on about needless things, I can see where that can get really old, really quick." Oliver said, stroking his chin. "I have a feeling she's going to come down with a bad case of foot-in-mouth disease," said Tipper. "If she's as naive as she looks, she will undoubtedly rub at least someone the wrong way, and I won't be surprised if the 'she doesn't need the money' card comes into play." Vincent picked up a clicker on the desk and pushed the button. A picture of the next castaway appeared. He was a college-aged male with a round face, dark blond hair, and blue eyes. He was wearing a gray t-shirt bearing the name of his university in blue and white. He looked very serious. ''Buddy McLeod $c[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Buddy has two sides to him. On the outside is a grumpy, cold, and defensive guy who only looks out for himself."] Vincent sighed. $v["But on the inside, Buddy is very sensitive and hates seeing others inflict pain. He's an idealist, and he vows that this season won't be as dark as the one you were on."] He looked at Tipper when he said this. "Those don't exactly sound like compatible personalities," said Tipper. "At least he doesn't sound like a self-righteous and hypocritical hero. Those are not fun to watch get their way." $v["Who says that his strategy is foolproof?"] Vincent replied. $v["I can confidently say that this season is going to put Buddy's confidence to the test."] "I have been in a lot of pressure situations from ORGs and Survivor seasons myself," said Oliver. "In one of my philosophy classes I remember hearing a quote that went like this: 'If thou gaze long into an abyss, the abyss will also gaze into thee.' Let's just hope he doesn't let his ideals lead him astray." "I have no idea what the relevance of that is, but okay," said Tipper. Vincent hit the clicker button again. The next castaway was another college-aged person, this one a woman with tan skin and brown eyes, but bright blonde hair. She was wearing a long-sleeved, sky blue shirt. Her wavy, shoulder-length hair was brushed over her hairline in one direction, rather than parting in the middle. ''Candace Breyer $o[minty2mayhem]'' "Aww, she looks cute." Oliver smiled. "I like her." $v["Candace is something of a philosopher herself. She is very relaxed and approachable, and believes that to succeed in the game, she can't let anything get under her skin,"] Vincent explained. "Oh, wow, I'm yawning already," said Tipper. $v["Save it,"] said Vincent. $v["Her biggest struggle so far is that she's a recovering drug addict, and she feels that a change of lifestyle will be able to give her a new perspective on living a clean life."] "Leading a new lifestyle choice is one thing, going cold turkey into a reality show might have a whole load of repercussions that I really don't want to think about." Oliver gulped. "If she can manage to somehow not let her past haunt her she might have a really incredible growth story... I'll root for her and hope for the best." Vincent hit the clicker button, and when he saw the next person he nearly sighed. The next castaway was another young woman with long brown hair, a slim physique and light brown eyes. She had a short pink tee, and a beaming smile. ''Denine Magro $c[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Ah, Denine, she has so much enthusiasm I don't know where to start for her,"] said Vincent. $v["She seems really into being on the show and pulling off moves and having a good time... there's nobody that I can say is readier for the show than she is."] "Hopefully she does more than just spout trivia the whole time," said Tipper, picking up a paperclip, "or this is going straight into my eyeball." "Hmm..." Oliver said, leaning into the image to inspect it carefully. "I don't know about her. Being a fan of a show is one thing, being OUT THERE is a whole other kettle of fish entirely. I will say she probably won't last very long." $v["The two of you are both only really seeing one side of her fan status,"] Vincent replied. $v["There's more to her than that, but I would like to leave that as a surprise for now."] "Well I hope she proves me wrong then, because right now I have doubts." Oliver shrugged. Vincent smiled, and clicked his clicker. The next castaway was yet another young woman, this one with long, bright blonde hair and green eyes. She was wearing a red and black plaid jacket, and she looked smug. ''Jackie Potato $q[meme12rose]'' "She looks familiar," said Tipper. $v["I was wondering if you would notice,"] said Vincent. $v["This is Jackie, the twin sister of Emily from your season. Like her sister, she is stubborn and cliquey, but that is about where the similarities end."] "Oh wow, a sibling on a new season?" said Oliver, intrigued. "I always like to compare and contrast relatives when they play on separate seasons." $v["Putting them on the same season would be too cliché if you ask me,"] Vincent replied. $v["Jackie prides herself on her strategic ability and is willing to do anything to get to the end. She's totally willing to be labeled the villain if it means she's playing the game right. I even remember her saying 'my game is going to be Inca Legacy, not Emily's Legacy.'"] "Hmmm..." Oliver said after hearing that statement. "I mean confidence can take people only SO FAR. I would hope she isn't all bark, but with a statement like that now I am starting to get early boot vibes from her." "I'm about confident she's going to shoot herself in the foot somewhere along the line. There's no way that she doesn't have at least something in common with Emily," said Tipper. "I agree." Oliver nodded. Vincent chuckled, and pressed the button on his clicker. The next castaway was a fairly young man with dark skin and short black hair. He was wearing a red and white sports jersey, and he looked slightly surprised. ''Jarrett Wayne $o[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Jarrett is a very blunt man, and he's not afraid to speak for his allies,"] Vincent explained. $v["He doesn't like to bend to other people's wills, and he is determined to be an influential person himself."] "So, will he be trying to step up and lead, or does he just not want to be told what to do?" Tipper asked. "Depending on what his tribe pans out to be, one of those strategies will work out for him and the other one spells early boot." "I do see potential in him becoming a force of nature on his team," said Oliver, "the question is will he be one of good or bad. I will say he's probably going to lean more on the antagonistic than the heroic." Vincent shrugged and pressed the button on his clicker. The next castaway was a college-aged woman with medium-length brown hair and dark brown eyes. Her hair was mostly brushed over to her left side. She was wearing a denim jacket over a white undershirt, and she was smirking in her picture. ''Jennifer Prince $c[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Jennifer doesn't take crap from anyone,"] Vincent explained. $v["She's a wannabe leader who doesn't like conflict, but she's aware of her team dynamics. She will act for the good of her tribe, but she doesn't always see how strong she comes across."] "If I had any advice for her, it'd be to pull back on the reins a little bit," Oliver pointed out. "No one likes to be babysat, even if said watcher had good intentions. I think she might accidentally cause the powder keg to blow if she doesn't pick her battles correctly." "Who's to say her intentions are any good?" Tipper replied. "The good of the tribe isn't always the best way to go. You shouldn't be afraid to take a stand against the authority if said authority is a pile of garbage." $v["Still bitter, are we?"] Vincent asked, smirking a little. Oliver just shuddered. Vincent pressed the button on his clicker. The next castaway was wearing an indigo hood, and something with a brown strap. The whites of his black eyes were visible, but not even the profile of his face could be distinguished from the shadow underneath his hood. ''Khall $q[SSBFreak]'' "That might be the goofiest ninja I have ever seen." Oliver snickered at the big eyed hooded figure. $v["How did you know he was- nevermind."] Vincent shook his head. $v["This is Khall... he's a bit of a goofball. He's very physically adept, but most of the time he just fails to get that across, so he looks more like a liability than an asset. He's not the sharpest tool in the shed, and he has an affinity for standing on inappropriately located flora and babbling about story conventions."] "I can't think of anything to say here, but..." Tipper held her head in utter confusion. "As much fun as his personality might be, I am going to assume his unpredictable nature might just rub too many people the wrong way. As fun as it would be to see him bouncing around the place I don't see him lasting very long unfortunately." Oliver sighed. Vincent clicked his clicker, revealing the next castaway: a young woman with platinum blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a sweet smile. She was wearing a light blue top with spaghetti straps. ''Lisa Peters $c[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Lisa is a very kind and respectful person, and she wants to prove that it's possible to win without making enemies,"] Vincent explained. $v["She may appear to be a naive and innocent angel, but she is not afraid to take matters into her own hands and tell people what she wants them to do."] "I like her too," said Oliver. "I find her spunky and she probably has the potential to be a real heroine of the season. I hope she can last long enough to see it through." "At least she's not expecting to get by on being pretty and non-threatening," said Tipper. "If you're going to get on the show, at least try and play." Vincent nodded. $v["Exactly."] He pressed his clicker and the next castaway appeared. This one was the first nonhuman of the cast, a pudgy anthropomorphic otter. He had dark brown eyes, a black and white visor, and an open blue jacket. His expression was a neutral one, as if he was getting a driver's license. ''Louie Leingartner $c[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Louie may be a chubby surfing otter, three traits that correspond to cheerfulness, but Louie is not that,"] said Vincent. $v["He's a very determined and stoic guy who finds himself most comfortable in a competitive environment. Arguably, his physical ability will be what determines whether he will go down swinging or make a real impact on the game."] "It's strange... I mean I can tell this guy has a story to tell, but I bet it will be something unexpected." Oliver rubbed his chin in thought. "I can see him be a breakout hero or villain this season, and in both camps I can see him playing either role really well. He's my dark horse pick for the win regardless of any alignment he fills out." Tipper scratched the back of her head. "He looks like the kind of guy who will fulfill the carefree stereotype to your face, and then backstab you for the most minor infraction. I hope for his sake that nobody pushes him to that point." "Bad experience with otters too?" asked Oliver with a hint of sarcasm. "Wait until a panther comes up, then we'll talk," Tipper snapped. "...." Oliver went deadpan and glared at the screen with his arms crossed. "NEXT PLEASE!" Vincent rolled his eyes and pressed the clicker button. The next castaway was a young woman of Korean descent. She had brown eyes with glasses, black shoulder-length hair, and a green clip in her hair. She was wearing a dark yellow shirt, and she was smiling slightly. ''Min-Ji Han $o[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Min-Ji claims that she's a natural born leader, and she wants to keep her tribe focused and organized,"] said Vincent. $v["Unlike many so-called leaders, she knows her tribe won't necessarily be a functioning unit, and she's willing to jump into the fold of tribe politics to make moves that interest only her, and then make sure what's left can bounce back."] "She's a realist." Oliver pointed out. "Having the foresight of knowing when to fight and who to fight alongside can be a crucial advantage for some players. I bet she'll have a solid couple of rounds, but if people start to catch on she'll be in for some rough waters ahead. I'll root for her though because it's nice to see someone who is going to stick to their guns as opposed to folding to another's demands." "I figure she might be able to go the distance if she distinguishes team leader Min-Ji from game player Min-Ji," said Tipper. "Might be more difficult than I make it sound." Vincent nodded and pressed the clicker button. The next castaway was certainly the oldest so far - a man who looked to be in his early fifties or so, with short, graying hair and blue eyes. He had an overweight build and a dull green buttoned jacket. ''Monty $q[CKD]'' $v["Monty is probably one of my favourites in the cast,"] said Vincent. $v["He's a good-natured Southern construction worker who wants to try something different and learn about himself. He's not going to worry himself much with strategy, he's just out here to make some good relationships and have some good stories to tell his pals back home."] "I don't see him going far enough in running challenges, let alone in the competition," said Tipper. "I'm sure he'll have a great week or two in Peru, though." "Contrary to my associate, I have high hopes for Monty." Oliver grinned. "An older guy with a easy going nature might just be what his tribe needs to stay sane. I mean, will it get him a win? I can believe he has the skills and personality to make a very solid end game resume among his peers. I think he's also in my top four to win." "I think his fellow competitors will be more like his kids' peers than his own," said Tipper. "How did you win your season again?" Oliver rubbed his temples. Vincent sighed and pressed the button on his clicker. The next contestant was a college-aged woman with wavy black hair and brown eyes. She had a tan skin colour that suggested she was of Hispanic descent. She was wearing a green t-shirt, and she had a calm smile. ''Paula Cortes $q[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Paula has a good head on her shoulders, but other than that I don't even think she knows what she's going to do,"] said Vincent, stifling a laugh. $v["She says that she's going to assess everyone and try to play an intelligent game, but she has trouble under pressure. She could do well if she isn't caught off guard, I think."] "I'm cool with that, as long as it doesn't mean she's going to dominate this season and play everyone like a fiddle," said Tipper. "For our sake, I hope she runs into something unexpected that throws her off and shakes up her game." "I mean she seems to have an idea how to play the game, but if her anxiety is really that big of a deal then her biggest obstacle will probably be herself," Oliver pointed out. "If any conflict should arise from this season, most likely she'll be the one who inadvertently starts it." Vincent nodded and clicked his clicker. The next castaway was a light-skinned young man with blond hair slicked back, and green eyes. He was wearing a blue and purple plaid shirt that looked a bit too wide for him. He looked contemplative. ''Rhett Mason $c[DoctorRoy]'' "I can appreciate a man in purple." Oliver smirked. $v["Rhett is a cool, collected young man who thrives in social situations,"] said Vincent. $v["He's a fan of debate, and he thinks that deep discussions are the best way to get to know a person's true character. If he can't do that, then he has trouble trusting them."] "I think he has potential to be a schemer of the season." Oliver said. "I also get the impression that if he were to get a vote thrown at him, he might go on a witch hunt. I just hope he's not unbearable out there if he really focuses on debating about morality and trust all the time." "He looks like a wannabe used car salesman," said Tipper. "You start out talking about where to build the shelter, and before you know it you're in a final two alliance and you're $50,000 in debt." $v["There's a story there,"] said Vincent. He pressed the button on his clicker. The next contestant was an anthro skunk wearing sunglasses and a black leather jacket over a red shirt. He appeared to be really annoyed about something. ''Rocky $o[Tinyhammer]'' "Say, Oliver, you're not going to be bitter about skunks too, are you?" Tipper asked, half curious and half waiting for a reaction. "Only if they tie me to a pole and beat me." Oliver said not even looking at Tipper. $v["We are NOT talking about that,"] Vincent snapped. $v["Despite being about the same age as most of his competitors, Rocky here is very entitled and immature guy. His hobbies include partying, rock music, and booze. He picks fights with pretty much anyone, and he doesn't care what people think of him as long as he gets what he wants."] "Oh, he sounds like a saint." Oliver shook his head. "The sooner his torch is snuffed the better." "I think I'm in love," sighed Tipper. "If there's a brain under there, I'll hope that he goes far and plays with people, just so everyone loses it when they don't see it coming." "Well I know a guy from Philly you might get along with if this falls through." Oliver chuckled. "I hope you're not talking about that living pit stain you call Brody," Tipper groaned. "Him? Of course not!" Oliver then looked to Vincent and mouthed //"I am totally talking about that guy!"// Vincent decided not to entertain this bitter feud and moved on to the next contestant. He was a male with short, light blond hair and pale skin. He was wearing a sky blue shirt, and appeared to be a human but with two large, soft blue wings behind his back. His eyes were closed, and he had a neutral, peaceful expression. ''Saul $o[minty2mayhem]'' $v["I was surprised that someone like Saul would want to compete on a reality show, but maybe that's a reason he signed up for this series in particular."] Vincent gave a half-shrug. $v["Saul's biggest strength is his ability to manage stress, which he hopes will serve him well in the competition. He frequently has visions, and although they tend to be vague, he says, they might give him a leg up in determining whether he's going along the right track."] "I see," said Tipper. "I'm hoping he turns out to be the proactive type. If he doesn't get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the game, and he does nothing to change how it plays out, then he might as well not be playing at all." Oliver nodded. "He looks like the quiet type, though... but I'm going to hold out hope." Vincent pressed the button on his clicker, revealing the second-to-last castaway. She was a young anthro rabbit with gray fur and dark green eyes. She was wearing a black t-shirt with a white outline of two dice on it. She was smiling brightly. ''Tara Grey $q[minty2mayhem]'' $v["Tara is a friendly, outgoing girl who likes to show off,"] explained Vincent. $v["Her hobby is magic, and she hopes that she can impress her team to help form initial relationships with them. She knows she's not the strongest player, but she wants to make up for it in charisma and a little sass."] "I have a feeling she's going to be the underdog type who gets by through being a positive force on her team that everyone wants to be friends with," Tipper suggested. "I don't know if she'll able to avoid being seen as dangerous if she depends on this strategy too much." "The only way I can see someone so positive getting eliminated early is if she's on a tribe of complete jerks." Oliver nodded. "I am hoping that isn't the case because I am sure she can be a really rootable player if she can make it far enough… yes she's also a top contender for me." he smiled. $v["And that brings us to the last contestant of the season,"] said Vincent. He pressed the button on his clicker, and the TV screen flashed red. "Wait, what's happening?" Tipper asked. "Oh god...." Oliver stood up from his chair looking hella scared right now. $v["That's weird,"] said Vincent. $v["This calls for some percussive maintenance."] He stood up from his chair, walked over to the TV and smacked it once with the clicker. The screen returned to its normal colours, but the final castaway was only a black silhouette... ...but it cleared up to reveal a man in his mid-twenties with short brown hair, glasses, and a five o'clock shadow. He was wearing a bright blue shirt, and his green eyes showed how anxious he was. ''Václav Beránek $q[minty2mayhem]'' "Oh, thank goodness..." Oliver sighed in relief. "Just some kid who looks like he wet himself." $v["Oliver, sit down,"] said Vincent. $v["Václav is an intelligent man who sometimes gets caught up in his ideas, good or bad. He says he is prepared for the strategic aspect of the game, but he has to be wary of his tendency to overthink things, but my worry is that he's going to be more concerned of literally everything else. Václav might be a huge threat if he would just take a deep breath once in awhile."] "Looks like he's going to be a complete disaster," said Tipper. "However, where he differs from Sly is that Václav looks like he has a backbone, so he isn't doomed to goat status, and might even get targeted for simply having a good day." "Well now I feel bad for saying that aboot him." Oliver frowned. "I hope he does manage to find his way in this crazy game somehow, and if he doesn't win I hope he can at the very least grow from the experience." Vincent clicked his clicker one last time, revealing the cast of 18 sitting and standing on the steps of what appeared to be a temple of some kind. $v["So, any thoughts, questions, concerns?"] said Vincent. "Yeah, are these actual ancient ruins or just props?" Tipper asked. "I really hope you guys aren't romping around in places with historical and archaeological value." $v["No comment. Oliver, any questions?"] Vincent asked, slightly annoyed. "A few, will there be any special gimmicks, twists, advantages distributed this season?" asked the purple clad Canadian. $v["Actually yes,"] said Vincent. $v["Right out the gate, each tribe is presented with a choice that will have an impact on whether their tribe is truly successful. We're also bringing back two big twists to make this game a truly hectic experience - kidnapping, and One World. We even have another twist that wasn't even planned by production!"] "Wow." Oliver said, his interest piqued. "I look forward to see what kind of shake ups you have in store for this season." He gave a thumbs-up. "What is this twist you didn't plan?" Tipper asked. $v["If we told you, then it wouldn't be as surprising to you as it was to us,"] said Vincent. $v["You'll have to wait and see. Anything else you wanted to ask?"] "Yes, when will this season commence?" Oliver said, looking back up at the full cast picture. Vincent shrugged. "Well then, let's see how it plays out! I am eager to see how the game goes!" Oliver nodded in approval. "Yeah, me too, surprisingly enough," said Tipper. $v["That's good to hear, I'm glad that you're on board,"] Vincent said, smiling. $v["Thanks for coming out, guys, I appreciate it."] "Anytime," said Tipper. Oliver nodded in agreement. $v["Well, hopefully you at home will enjoy the season as well,"] said Vincent. $v["You know what they say, third time's the charm, right?] ''An Hour Later'' The TV was off, as were all the lights. The room was completely empty, as Vincent had returned to his office, and Tipper and Oliver had headed home. A green wormhole materialized on the wall, and with a loud boom, a familiar-looking man in green stepped out holding a tray of four coloured drinks. $crazy["I got everyone slurpees!"] cRaZy exclaimed. $crazy["I know you said you didn't want any, but deep down I knew-"] He realized he was alone in the room, and his face immediately dropped. [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$t[**Day 7 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[five](replace: "votedpeople")[Ochora plus Paula] Candace lets out a sigh. "After joy comes sadness, and after defeat comes triumph. The universe is a cycle of cycles, we shall find our joy again in time." "I agree with whatever that means," says Ashleia. //"Today wasn't ideal," Candace explains. "We still have Rocky being an irritant, but at least we don't have Min-Ji here anymore. She might have been more trouble than she was worth down the line, I feel. Make no mistake, though, Rocky should be next."// Saul taps Paula on the shoulder, and shuffles aside to talk to her quietly. "What's the matter, Saul?" Paula asks. "I am sad about Min-Ji leaving, as now I remain the only one who voted against Rocky," Saul explains. "I would like the perspective of someone who did not have an agenda tonight. What happened?" "The others thought Min-Ji was going to be a more dangerous threat if they kept her," Paula replies. "It sounds like everyone is a more dangerous threat than Rocky though, if what I'm hearing from everyone is true." Saul shakes his head. "I do not believe so. There is more to Rocky, and I can sense it. It is truthfully why I wanted him out." Paula raises her eyebrows. "That little punk? You think he could be a bigger threat down the road?" Saul nods. "I believe that if he is not eliminated, his power will only grow. My visions inform me that the least tactful, the most ambitious and egotistical among us has the capability to outlast us all. I struggle to see that being anyone besides Rocky." "Maybe Jackie," says Paula. "She's trying too hard to be a mastermind that it's actually kind of painful to watch her crash and burn." //"I definitely see Monty and Vaclav as being better for me down the road than Jackie and Khall," Paula admits. "The guys are rational and friendly, while Khall is unreadable and I think that if I flip to Jackie then she might turn on me because she needs a 'big move'."// "So, you have your own Rocky, in a way, on Quibas?" Saul asks. "Well, if you are so inclined, I would be willing to support you in dealing with her shall we end up voting together." "I'm all for a backroom deal." Paula smirks. "Welcome to the club." //"Ochora, I fear, has consigned me to an unpleasant fate," says Saul. "Therefore, I have no choice but to reach out to the other tribes in search of a more favourable position. Now my focus becomes surviving long enough to gain contact with them."// Jarrett, Ashleia, and Candace regroup to have a quick conversation of their own. "I gotta hand it to you girls," says Jarrett. "That was some impressive sniping we just did." "Min-Ji was becoming unbearable," says Candace. "It was only fitting, I believe." Ashleia nodded. "Like, once I realized she would lie to get Rocky out, even though that was already our plan, then why wouldn't she lie about any of us?" "Exactly," says Jarrett. "She wouldn't hesitate to do so." //"I don't care about the lying, that's part of the game," says Jarrett. "But if that makes her a target in the eyes of others, that's good for me. She was a threat, and now I'm left with people I'm less wary of. It's good to have some breathing room."// Rocky's eyes dart back and forth between the two conversations, before he turns and sprints back to camp. //"I'm aware of how close I was to leaving tonight," says Rocky. "If it wasn't for Ashleia, I would have been sweating bullets. But I'm still here, and my number one priority is getting a better spot for myself or getting an idol. Either will work."// $c[**Chalpe**] Buddy is sitting by himself, watching the tribe's pot over the fire, when Louie comes over and sits down near him. //"I know Buddy figures he's on the outs," says Louie, "but as long as we keep winning I'd rather he doesn't snap and go serial killer on all of us."// "What are you thinking about?" Louie asks. "Home," says Buddy. "It's been all I've been able to think about since yesterday. I know we've been doing well but it's still tough, especially on a tribe I'm not comfortable with." Louie nods. "Yeah, I'm not comfortable with this group either. But if we can just make it to the swap we should be good." "What if it's a tribe dissolve, and all we get is two new people?" Buddy suggests. "That would suck." //"Louie, I guess, wanted to just look like he wasn't a non-entity at camp who does nothing but follow Denine," Buddy guesses. "It's not fooling me, though. I was throwing veiled insults about how much I can't stand him the whole time, and I wouldn't be shocked if he did the same thing."// "What if it isn't?" Louie replies. "We might end up losing... speaking of which. Who would you be voting out if it came to that?" Buddy stops, thinks for a moment, then rubs the back of his neck. "I'm not sure, honestly. It's not obvious to me." Louie's eyes narrow. "There isn't one person you have on your radar?" Buddy shakes his head. "Like I said. I'm not comfortable here. I'm fine with whatever." //"He must be wanting me out if he says he doesn't like anyone but not naming any names," says Louie. "Well, I'm glad we had this little chat then, because it'll be our last before I send him packing."// Just then, Lisa approaches the pair. "Thanks for watching the pot for me, Buddy," Lisa says sweetly. "Watching the pot?" Buddy raises an eyebrow. "I got the water on in the first place." "We both did," says Lisa, frowning slightly. "You watched from a distance," Buddy replies. "Both of you shut up," Louie snaps. "This is by far the dumbest argument I've heard since I got here." "It's about the principle of it," Buddy interjects. //"I don't understand why Buddy has to be so upset all the time," says Lisa, with a frown. "It's really unfortunate. The only one he's harming is himself. I do hope the tribe recognizes that we need to vote him out for his sake, and ours too."// Denine then arrives. "Um, what's going on here? Who started it?" "It doesn't matter," says Louie, before Buddy or Lisa can get a word in. "Hi, Denine!" Lisa says brightly. "We were not arguing, just preparing dinner for us." "Oh, that's nice!" Denine smiles. "So, there's no problem here? I thought I heard Louie say there was an argument." "Do not worry, it's all settled now." Lisa says. "I do not believe Buddy will have another snit over semantics today." "He got worked up over word choice? Wow, that's low, even for him." Denine shakes her head. "For someone you supposedly despise, you have a high opinion of him," says Louie. Denine shoots Louie a quick glare. "It shouldn't matter, we're still voting him out first." "I think he left," says Lisa. "It is not like we have to fret about his presence." //"Yeah I pretty much hate everyone here," says Denine. "Am I going to wear it on my sleeve like Buddy? Hell no, I want to stay in the competition. If that means playing Lisa's little game until I decide to cut her loose, then I suppose I have to do that."// //"Denine and Louie are thick as thieves," says Lisa. "Rhett and Jennifer seem to trust each other. I would like both sides to see me as an asset, so I am most delighted that Denine is willing to humour me."// $q[**Quibas**] Monty, Vaclav, and Paula are sitting near the shelter together, listening to Monty tell a story. "So, after a few hours of waiting, me an' the boys was about to head home. We got a few little ones, maybe that's all the lake had," says Monty. "But then I see Mitch strugglin' to not fall over. He says 'I got one, pop! I got one!' I help him reel the sucker in, and once I saw it we was stunned." "What was it?" Vaclav asks. "Was it even a fish?" "Oh, it wasn't a boot or a tire, they don't squirm like this feller did," says Monty with a chuckle. "It was the biggest trout me an' my boys ever did see! A real beauty, that one. Almost the size of the rabbit girl." "She wasn't exactly small," says Paula. "Well, neither was the trout!" //"Monty may not be the best storyteller in the world, but I like listening to him tell his little tales about fishing and dirt biking and his other backwoods escapades," says Paula. "Maybe it's the country girl in me saying this, but it's one of the best things out here for me."// "Hey, um, I'm sorry to interrupt," Vaclav says with a bit of a blush. "But, um, do you guys get worried that we're alienating the rest of the tribe?" Monty's jovial expression dims slightly. "What's got you down, son?" "Vaclav, if they want to be a part of this then they can," says Paula. "But I'm not going to waste my time chasing them down." "I'm just worried about things, I guess," Vaclav admits. "Let's... not let the game get us down right now," says Monty. Paula nods, her face showing a tinge of worry. "Oh. Sorry for making things awkward," says Vaclav. //"I shouldn't have said anything." Vaclav wipes his nose with his hand. "I don't know if they want me to calm down because they don't want me worked up over nothing, or because they want me to let my guard down. If it's the latter, that will never happen."// //"He's a good kid, I trust him," says Monty. "He just... thinks too hard. We're here to have a good time, right? It might help if we can win a massage reward for him or somethin', I dunno."// $o[**Ochora**] Ashleia, Candace, and Jarrett decided to hold an alliance meeting a short distance away from camp. "They know the area better than we do," says Jarrett. "Are you sure they know how to get here?" Ashleia sighs. "There's... not much of a way for them to get lost, is there?" As if on cue, the trio are greeted by their guests – $q[Jackie] and $q[Khall], arriving from the Quibas camp. "My tribe is distracted with 'bonding' or something," says Jackie, making air quotes with her hands as she says 'bonding'. "How about yours?" "Don't worry about it," Jarrett replies. "You see we have three of us here, there are five on our tribe..." "So what's going on?" Jackie asks. "You want to make some kind of deal?" //"Jackie seems like the one player who's taking this game more seriously than anyone," Jarrett explains. "I figured it would be good to work out some kind of a deal with her."// "We may fly our own colours," says Candace, "but we can stand together under a banner of one colour... the human colour." Ashleia scratches her head, confused. "Cross-tribal alliance," says Jarrett bluntly. "If you two can make it to the swap, we'll have your backs. Chalpe might be too strong to take on if we're fighting amongst each other." "That's not, like, the only reason," Ashleia replies. "See, we have a problem and his name is Rocky. So if we don't lose, can you guys help and vote him out?" Both Jackie and Khall nod. "Is there anyone on your side that, like, we can try getting rid of for you?" Ashleia asks. "So we can do a sort of... exchange?" Khall is about to say something but Jackie cuts him off. "All of them. I'm not picky." //"They sure have a lot of guts to say 'okay, we'll protect with you, but vote out this guy only'." Jackie shakes her head. "This Rocky guy looks kind of strong. So what if his tribe hates him? I don't."// "Can we trust you?" Candace asks. "I like to think I'm trustworthy," says Khall. "We don't have anything to lose," Jackie adds. "Is that so?" says Jarrett. //"So that group may or may not be my backup when the swap hits," says Jackie. "But if any of them are in danger over me, that's their problem. Oops, sorry, my hands are tied, there's nothing I can do."// //"Well, that was uneventful," says Khall. He shrugs.// [[Day 8<-Read Day 8]]

**Day 8** $c[**Chalpe**] Buddy is angrily snapping twigs in his hands while mumbling to himself and walking in a circle. He almost doesn't notice Rhett walk by, carrying some branches for the fire. "Buddy, you all good?" Rhett asks. "You look aggravated." "Oh really, do I now?" says Buddy, turning around with an icy glare. "I'll give you three tries as to why." "Denine," Rhett guesses. "Not this time," says Buddy. "Louie." "Not him, either." Rhett stops to think, scratching his head. "Um... the fact that this is the only time in your life that your vote will ever count?" "Lisa! It's that bottle blonde, prissy, passive aggressive head cheerleader BITCH!" Buddy snaps. "What!? Why her?" Rhett looks completely stunned by Buddy's outburst, more than he should be. //"I've been absolutely fuming about her after that stupid lie I called her out on," Buddy explains. "I need Jennifer and Rhett to see what's going on with her, I can't be the only one who thinks Lisa is full of it."// "You know, Denine sucks but at least she knows Survivor trivia, that might come in handy for a challenge," says Buddy. "You haven't gotten the chance to talk to her," says Rhett. "Denine is really insightful." "Well that makes your choice easier, doesn't it?" Buddy replies. "The way I see it, you have two choices. It's either Lisa or Louie. Both of them are physically weak, but at least Louie can swim, and voting Lisa won't make Denine want to wring your neck." "Buddy, most of the tribe wants you gone." Rhett shakes his head. "I'm not going to put my neck on the line for you if it puts me in the minority." "It doesn't have to be the minority. We need to convince Jennifer." //"I admit. I haven't been paying enough attention to the dynamics," says Rhett. "But if Jennifer and I are to stick together, we have to keep the other three good with us. If we vote Buddy or Lisa out, and lose again, what happens?"// Meanwhile, Lisa is watching the pair from afar. "Oh, no, this simply will not do," says Lisa. "I need a plan. I desperately need to talk to Jennifer before they can." //"If Buddy convinces Rhett, then I need Jennifer on my side to be confident we do not kidnap a rabble-rouser," Lisa explains. "I do hope she can see reason. I need to put an end to Buddy's smear campaign, so we can all sleep better at night."// "You simply must know that I cannot stand idly by and watch our group be torn asunder," Lisa insists to Jennifer. "I saw Buddy trying to say... all these awful things about me." "He did?" Jennifer raises an eyebrow. "Why would he?" "I have no clue why he wants to make this so personal." Lisa sighs. "It is, after all, only a game, right?" "He's not the only one who's taken this personally," Jennifer replies. "Heck, just look at Denine. It takes two to tango." "I... I do not know how else to say it!" Lisa clasps her hands together. "Jennifer, listen to me. We have a simply inexcusable amount of grief and unpleasantries here. It is best for all of us if we stand together and vote out the one in the middle of it all." "And that would be Buddy." //"I sort of assumed that was Lisa's position from the start," says Jennifer, looking irritated. "So why is she suddenly on my case about voting him out now?"// "Alright. I'm with you," says Jennifer. "Oh, thank you, I am so gracious!" Lisa smiles brightly. "Now, I must make my leave. I have other tasks to attend to. Ta!" And with that, Lisa moves to return to camp. Jennifer pauses, before walking after her. $q[**Quibas**] Paula is muttering to herself, rehearsing Survivor trivia in the event of a challenge. //"I need to stay sharp and be aware of my surroundings," Paula explains. "Right now, the tribe is stable, but little things can add up over time. As much as I would like to at times, I can't shun anyone."// When she sees Jackie coming back to camp from a walk, Paula gestures her over. "Hey, Jackie, you got a minute?" she asks. "Sure, what's up?" Jackie replies, flicking hair out of her eyes. "I've noticed that you and Khall have been really close recently," Paula explains. "And I don't want to say that's a good or a bad thing or what have you. But we do need to stick together as a tribe." Jackie raises an eyebrow. "We are sticking together, but I don't really want to give everyone equal time." "Yeah, I get it, we all have our preferences," says Paula. "We're in three tribes, though. That usually doesn't last long, so you're making the rest of us kind of nervous that you're going to screw us over." "I wouldn't screw you over for no reason," says Jackie. "It's not you I'm worried about," Paula admits, "it's Khall who's the wildcard. Are you sure you can keep a leash on him?" //"Khall is a good ally. Dim-witted, knows when to be quiet, doesn't bumble about and say the wrong things." Jackie smiles. "We work well together – I act, he listens. All we need is a vote to show how we do things."// "Khall is with us," says Jackie firmly. "We got this. You're not worried about the guys banding together, are you?" "It never hurts to be sure," Paula replies. "I like having multiple perspectives before I make a decision, and we're in a game of big decisions." "Speaking of Khall, have you seen him recently?" Jackie asks. "Why," says Paula, "where did you put him?" $o[**Ochora**] Candace is standing near a tree, watching Rocky check under a multitude of rocks. "So," Rocky says, "what happened with Jarrett and Ashleia yesterday? You were gone at the most bizarre of times." "Was I supposed to include you? Jarrett was trying to make sure that everyone else wants you out just as much," says Candace. "HA! Good luck with that." //"Right now, I'm on make-sure-Rocky-has-no-idol duty," explains Candace. "However, Rocky's inner spirits are in disarray, and I know if he finds that idol they will be soothed. I can tap into his aura and figure it out either way, but the tribe thinks someone HAS to be doing this."// "So, once I find this thing," says Rocky, "which I will, who should we take out with it?" "Why are you asking me?" Candace asks. "You're going to do whatever you want anyways." "I'm not stupid," Rocky replies, "I need to have **someone** on my side." "Rocky, we aren't allies!" Candace snaps. "Listen. I hate you as much as Jarrett does, as much as Saul does, as much as Ashleia does. You have no friends here." "Candace, we are allies," says Rocky. He stands up to face her. "You **need** me. You see, Jarrett has this tribe by the nuts, and I'm not going to stand for it. And seeing as you're the one on the bottom of the totem pole..." "What!?" //"I've done nothing wrong since I got here and there's a cult that's after me," says Rocky. "Jarrett's running the show, and if I can't get him to backstab someone else, I need to look for more than just an idol. Candace is my best bet since she's a nut."// "Who do you think will go home after me?" Rocky says. "Spoiler, it's either you or Saul. Jarrett's too strong and he's going to want to save Ashleia so he can bone her later. Plus, he's probably chumming it up with Saul while you're stuck here with me, so..." "We'll win without you," Candace replies. Rocky smirks. "I doubt it," he says while flexing his left bicep, "believe it or not, this tribe – especially you – needs me." //"Jarrett knows I'm the most capable of keeping Rocky in line, that's why he made me keep watch," says Candace. "So Rocky can take his conspiracy theory crap and shove it."// Candace rolls her eyes, and behind her enters Saul. "Are you two alright?" Saul asks gently. "I've been better," says Candace. "I don't doubt it," Rocky mutters under his breath. "How is the idol hunt going?" asks Saul. "Why should I tell you? You voted against me last time," says Rocky. "I was talking to Candace," Saul replies. //"I believe Rocky has given up on his fruitless effort to hide his true self," Saul explains. "I have no doubt that my darker prophesies refer to him, now. But of course, I cannot act on them alone."// "He hasn't found anything," says Candace. "And I still don't think we should be patronizing Rocky like this." "I do not agree either." Saul folds his arms. "But this is the only way to ease Jarrett and Ashleia's concerns. "Or the three of us could vote them out," says Rocky. "He thinks he has the final say in how things are run around here, I say we stick it to him." Candace looks over at Saul with a curious expression, but Saul gives no response. "It's... not a terrible idea," says Candace. "But we really have to work on your aura." "Auras can't cast votes, sweetie," Rocky replies. Saul looks a little annoyed by this remark. "Hey, Rocky. I see no benefit to keeping you. If Jarrett is a threat, other tribes will want to eliminate him. But he is not causing us any harm." Rocky's expression instantly sours. "Just wait until YOUR backs are on the line, because mark my words, it will happen if you just bend over for everything Jarrett does!" //"I should have known better than give Saul a second chance," says Rocky. "It's clear he doesn't want to play smart. It's time for me to double down on plans that DO work!"// $c[**Chalpe**] Denine is sitting in the shelter, next to Louie, who is lying down. "I do want to go around and put together a strong social game," says Denine, "but at the same time... I kind of don't." "Not with these people," Louie agrees. "Exactly." Denine shakes her head. "I mean, Rhett's okay, but in small doses." "Kid's got a screw loose," Louie adds. "And the more you talk to him, the more you're unscrewing it." "And the others I feel are just hungry for validation or something," says Denine. "Why do you think I'm not giving them any?" Louie smirks. The pair is interrupted by the arrival of Lisa, whom appears to be out of breath. "Denine, Louie, I regret to tell you both that Buddy is making his case to stay." "Oh no, he wants to win like the rest of us," says Louie. He pulls the brim of his cap over his eyes. "How un-delightful." "So, what do you suggest we do?" Denine asks. "I merely want to make sure the three of us and Jennifer will all vote Buddy the first time we lose," Lisa replies. "Can we do that?" "Do you even need to ask?" Denine smiles. "I supposed that I might have to ask," says Lisa. "I saw Buddy talking to Rhett, and with the utmost confidence I heard Rhett say he'll vote with him. He's close with Jennifer, one of us three is in serious danger." //"It is imperative I pull out all the stops." Lisa looks a little unsettled. "I understand that our tribe has two pairs, myself, and Buddy. Up until today the choice has been easy, but I believe Buddy knows he is not in our good graces. I need to confirm with Jennifer and Denine that they are on my side... and to guarantee they do not get cold feet."// After a bit more conversation, Lisa walks away. Jennifer seizes the opportunity and sneaks over to the shelter, before taking a seat next to Louie. "I've been meaning to talk to you guys," says Jennifer. "Have you heard anything about what'll happen if we need to go vote?" "Why are you suddenly so concerned about this?" Louie asks. "Why are you not concerned?" Jennifer replies. "I'm the tribe's leader, admittedly because I said so, and I'd rather not have a communication meltdown. I don't know about you two, but I want to keep winning." Denine nods. "So do we. And if we don't, the way to guarantee we start winning again is to vote Buddy." "You haven't heard any other plans?" Jennifer raises an eyebrow. "Nope," says Denine. //"What on Earth is everyone's problem today?" Denine shrugs. "Are you with me? Are you with me? No, I've suddenly decided to align with the guy I hate the most. There are times to keep secrets, but this is a time to tell it like it is."// "So, what exactly are we doing again?" Jennifer asks Rhett, near the end of the day. "I feel like I'm being taken for a ride." "I don't know," says Rhett. "That worries me." //"I'm not confident about this anymore," says Jennifer. "Rhett is usually open with me, more so than anyone else. But now everyone is strangely insistent that I vote Buddy. I think the tides have turned, and people might be gunning for Louie. At least, I hope they aren't gunning for me..."// $q[**Quibas**] Vaclav is sitting on a rock, deep in thought, while Khall hangs upside down on a tree branch above him. "I've probably heard them tell the same stories over and over now," says Vaclav. "But every time I talk about plans, all I get back is 'vote Jackie, end of story'. It's so frustrating." "Then maybe you shouldn't vote her," Khall replies. "What option do I have at this point? I've committed to that trio. I don't know if I can trust Jackie, since she was perfectly willing to keep that dark sorceress." Vaclav narrows his eyes. "If I vote out Paula, then Monty won't be happy. If I vote out Monty, then Paula won't be happy. If I vote out Jackie, then I'm just confirming to them that I'm their lap dog. I just can't win." "What if you vote me out?" Khall asks. "Did... did you just say that?" "It's just a hypothetical question," says Khall. "You don't have to if you don't want to." "Nobody else wants to vote you out," says Vaclav. "Then it would just be a waste. Aaaaargh! I don't know!!" //"It's been a couple of days since we have had to do anything besides staying fed and energized," Khall explains. "I think this is getting on Vaclav's nerves. He's been pretty agitated and restless."// "I can't think long-term in these cramped quarters. I just can't!" Vaclav grabs his head and scratches at his dark brown hair. "I feel like every second I spend out here is a second I'm letting people plot against me." "Maybe you could just stop thinking that," says Khall. "Oh, thanks! I feel so much better!" Vaclav says with a high-pitched voice. Khall appears to smile underneath his hood, but it's always hard to tell. "Any time, pal!" "You didn't help me at all!" Vaclav snaps. //"Everyone is too casual all the time," Vaclav mutters. "It's getting on my nerves. Am I supposed to just take everyone's word on day 3 and clam up until we lose?"// "We have five people, but three isn't even a majority anymore because of that twist!" Vaclav continued. "Our last vote was decided by someone Paula picked completely at random. How can I have confidence when we're split down the middle?" "I'll vote with you," says Khall. "You'll vote out whoever I want?" Vaclav asks, a bit surprised. "I, well, maybe not Jackie because we're allies and all." Khall sighs. "You're right, this IS hard." Monty then arrives at the tree and crosses his arms. "You two boys playing nice?" he asks. "I heard yellin'." "We're good," says Khall. "Except for Vaclav having a meltdown because he doesn't trust that a social bond can translate into an alliance." "It's more complicated than that," says Vaclav. "I know, but do you think Monty wants to have that conversation with you?" Khall replies. "V, you have my word that I will vote out Jackie," says Monty. "Why, because you don't like Jackie?" Vaclav asks. "Or is it because you need me to make merge so that I'm seen as a bigger physical threat than you because of my age?" "I would never treat you like that," says Monty. "I'll vote Jackie because I like you. You're a good kid." //"I'm an honest guy, I don't play games with people," says Monty. "I don't want Vaddy to think I'm like that. I'd like to calm his nerves some to show I'm with him." He spits.// Just then, Khall falls out of the tree branch. "Oh, lordy," says Monty. Vaclav looks around and starts calling for a medic. "I came here as fast as I can!" comes a familiar voice almost immediately. Vaclav and Monty turn around and stare dumbfounded when they see Khall, wearing a head mirror and a stethoscope. "Who's injured?" "I'd have to say common sense," says Monty, as Vaclav looks back to where Khall had fallen and sees nobody there. //"How did I do that? What do you mean, how did I do that?" Khall crosses his arms. "Look. Don't you have more important things to be discussing right about now?"// [[Day 9<-Read Day 9]]

**Day 9 Immunity Challenge** The challenge is a traditional King of the Hill challenge - each contestant will face off against one member of each opposing tribe, trying to knock each other off a circular, 3-meter-wide platform with sandbags. First to fall off in a round loses a point for their tribe, while the last one standing gains a point. The tribe with the highest score will win two baskets of baked goods and immunity, the second-place tribe will win one basket and immunity, and the third-place tribe will get nothing but a visit to tribal council. $c[Chalpe] has one extra member, and $c[Louie] volunteers to sit out. ''Round One'' $c[Denine] vs $o[Jarrett] vs $q[Monty] Denine curses her team for not putting someone stronger in the lineup first. Jarrett rushes her and pushes her off. Monty attempts to hold his ground, but when he misses a big swing, Jarrett capitalizes on it and pushes Monty off the platform. $c[Chalpe -1] $o[Ochora +1] $q[Quibas 0] ''Round Two'' $c[Buddy] vs $o[Rocky] vs $q[Paula] Buddy and Paula exchange a knowing glance, before heading to double team Rocky. However, Rocky had already begun charging towards Paula, knocking her off with ease. He struggles with Buddy but eventually pushes him off as well. Rocky hoists his sandbag over his head and lets out a yell of triumph. $c[Chalpe -1] $o[Ochora +2] $q[Quibas -1] ''Round Three'' $c[Jennifer] vs $o[Saul] vs $q[Vaclav] Jennifer and Vaclav rush each other and attempt to ram each other. It doesn't work, and leaves an opening for Saul to jump in. Jennifer pivots to send Vaclav off-balance, turning her attention towards Saul. She knocks him off. When Vaclav recovers, he runs towards Jennifer and charges her off the platform. $c[Chalpe -1] $o[Ochora +1] $q[Quibas 0] Louie is fast asleep while sitting upright next to Vincent. $v["Great to see your enthusiasm,"] Vincent remarks when Louie begins to snore. ''Round Four'' $c[Lisa] vs $o[Candace] vs $q[Jackie] Jackie attempts to talk trash, but Candace admonishes her. Lisa scrambles to knock off Jackie first, and after a brief struggle she succeeds. Candace easily overpowers Lisa and sends her off as well. $c[Chalpe -1] $o[Ochora +2] $q[Quibas -1] $v["Congratulations Ochora, you are now guaranteed immunity and the first-place reward," says Vincent. "Chalpe and Quibas, this round will determine whether you have to go to tribal council tonight."] ''Round Five'' $c[Rhett] vs $o[Ashleia] vs $q[Khall] Ashleia, who is secretly relieved that she is immune no matter what, finds it too difficult to fend off an attack from Rhett, and is the first to fall off the platform. Rhett runs over to Khall, but when the two clash, neither one has much of an advantage. Rhett takes a risk by shoving Khall back to the edge, and then throwing his sandbag. However, Khall jumps into the air, leaping off Rhett's sandbag while it's in mid-air, and smacks Rhett down with his own sandbag. With no sandbag to counter with, Rhett is nearly helpless to Khall pushing him off the platform. $c[Chalpe -1] $o[Ochora +1] $q[Quibas 0] $o[Ochora wins immunity and two baskets of baked goods!] $q[Quibas wins immunity and one basket of baked goods!] $c[Chalpe loses, and will have to vote out someone at tribal council.] Chalpe is instructed to pick someone from Ochora to kidnap. Paula gives Buddy a hand signal, and Buddy chooses Rocky. Rocky expresses annoyance that he won't get first pick of his tribe's reward but goes with Chalpe. $c[**Chalpe**] Shortly after Chalpe returns to their camp, Buddy and Lisa excuse themselves for different reasons. Buddy meets up with Paula on the path to the Town Square. "Well, that could have gone better," says Paula. "I thought we were lucky with the ordering." "Maybe it was for the best. No reason to raise suspicion for an early challenge like this," Buddy replies. "Normally I'd agree, but you're already on the outs and it's only day nine," says Paula. "This is when the stragglers get picked off. Right now, you're a straggler." "I have a plan," says Buddy. "It's going to be a close one, but I'm this close to flipping the tribe around. You know I won't give up if it's for a good cause." "Well I've been setting up the groundwork for you to swing Saul onto our side," says Paula. "I really hope you know what you're doing by picking Rocky instead." //"Buddy can be really cold and stubborn, even with me," says Paula. "I don't know what he should do, but I only know what he tells me. When it comes to making a good decision, my hands are kind of tied."// Back at the tribe camp, Lisa has returned, and appears to be upset about something. "I really hope we make the right decision tonight," says Lisa. "I-it's the only way things can get better." "Yeah, we're voting him out," says Denine flatly. "Relax, Lisa." "I believe you, I just..." Lisa sniffles, and wipes her eyes. "I'll tell you later." //"It's now or never," says Lisa. "It's time for me to speak up and put this queasiness in my heart to rest. I know I can get through the night if the tribe hears my story."// "Nice flop at the challenge, by the way," says Rocky. "Not earning a single point between the lot of you, it takes some coordination to be that pathetic." "It takes some nerve for that to be your first impression," says Jennifer. "I thought your first impression of me was the challenge I just won," says Rocky. "You know, where I knocked Buddy off the platform and he still picked me to come here." "Well that's because he sucks," Denine replies. "Says the number one reason you guys lost!" Rocky smirks. "You fell first, without your help these guys would just be mediocre." //"For a bunch of suddenly humbled losers, this tribe has their fair share of egos," says Rocky. "So, while I'm here and untouchable, I might as well just rub their noses in the loss." He shrugs, with his palms facing upwards. "What are they going to do, un-kidnap me?"// Buddy arrives at camp quietly, and Lisa winces. "What's her problem?" Buddy asks. Louie looks over at Lisa. "I think she had something to say about you." "Care to just come clean while we're here?" Jennifer folds her arms. "We're not going into tribal council as a total mess." "What do I have to admit?" Buddy replies. "I haven't seen her since the challenge." "I don't blame you," says Rocky, "but alas, you're in this sinking boat with them." "Shut up, Rocky, the adults are talking," says Jennifer. //"Lisa's worked up about something. Buddy's been weirdly aggressive towards her recently." Jennifer shakes her head. "So much for my Louie-blindside theory. It's my responsibility as the tribe peace-maker to figure out what's happening, and it's frustrating when nobody wants to cooperate."// "Buddy, you haven't done anything to Lisa, have you?" Rhett asks. "No," says Buddy. "Well that settles that," says Rhett. "You're going to believe him that quickly?" Denine asks. "Do you even know what you're accusing of?" Rhett snaps. He points directly at Denine. "I cannot stand for baseless attempts to assassinate someone's character like this. We have rights as citizens, and I'll be damned if anyone tries to take my freedom away!" //"I have lost so much respect for Denine," says Rhett. "She has dubious intentions, I am certain of it. I understood the reasoning for voting Buddy out, but this is overkill. What is she trying to prove by doing this?"// "Please, Lisa, don't allow yourself to be silenced by anyone," says Rhett. "Speak freely! We will pass no judgment." "I... I don't know if I can tell you if he's here," says Lisa. Buddy pretends to cough, sandwiching "Bullshit!" in between coughs. "Buddy, stop!" Denine yells. "No, Rhett's right! I'm not going to take... whatever this is!" Buddy yells back. "I can't deal with your nonsense tonight, so if you would kindly let someone else have their say, that would be great." "Quit being a prick," Denine snaps. "Not everything is about you." "I'm still waiting..." "I can't take this anymore," Lisa cries out. "Stop!" "Then stop lying to us," Buddy replies. "You're ALL guilty of hiding secrets!" Rhett snaps. Jennifer steps into the middle of the group. "This is going nowhere but down!" she interjects. "This is not how a successful tribe operates. We don't have to all be friends, but we cannot all collapse after losing one measly challenge." "Right. Well, I've made up my mind. I'm going for a swim." Louie gets up and walks around to the back of the shelter, out of sight. "Here's the deal," says Rocky. "You all have your problems, that's obvious. But I don't care! In fact, I rather enjoy seeing you fight. But I don't want to look like a moron tonight, so maybe spend less time crying because you all can't make friends, and start talking about what I can do to make you guys a little less pathetic." "I was kind of getting to that," says Jennifer. "And we really don't care much for the commentary." "I think it's fitting," says Buddy. "So how about this. Buddy, you can waste your vote however you'd like," says Denine. "But we have five votes on you. Choose carefully, Rocky, do you want to go for the path of least resistance? Or be a complete pariah because you're too cool to make rational decisions?" "Don't be so sure," says Rhett. He looks over at Buddy. "You wanted an ally? Now you've got one." Denine and Lisa's eyes go wide. "Rhett, why are you covering for him? You will only make things worse," Lisa pleads. "He's not a gentleman like you are, don't let him manipulate you." "Don't listen to her, Rhett, she's the fakest person you'll ever meet," says Buddy quickly. "I am an adult who can make my own choices, thank you very much." Rhett stares down both Buddy and Lisa into silence. "And the choice presents itself," says Rocky with a smirk. "Thanks for being so easy to read." "I guess we should let the cards fall where they may." Jennifer shakes her head. "But tonight, I need an explanation... from all of you... before I can vote." $v[**Tribal Council**] The Chalpe Tribe, with Rocky, walks into the tribal council building. Buddy and Rocky place their ignited torches behind the seven seats around the fire, while the other five are given the fire-is-life spiel by Vincent. The group them sits down around the fire, with Rocky in the middle. $v["Lisa, your tribe went from first to second to last. Did you expect to be sitting here a few days ago?"] Lisa lowers her head. "I guess I... I might have desired to be here earlier, because there is something I simply cannot keep running from." "Oh, here we go," says Buddy. "I just want something to change," says Lisa. "This tribe... I've been violated here in all kinds of ways. All I want to do is do what it takes to move past this." "Violated?" Louie looks shocked, but not too interested. "Is this what you were afraid to tell us?" Jennifer asks. Lisa nods solemnly. "I thought... I thought maybe this is a safe place, and I could tell you guys now..." "What did he do?" Denine asks, completely sympathetic to Lisa's plight. "Well, today... when we were alone after the challenge, he-" Lisa begins. "You dishonest little bitch," says Buddy. $v["Rhett, help me out here, what are they talking about?"] "When we got back, Lisa started crying over something," Rhett explains, "but she didn't want to tell us what it was." "Didn't want to?" Denine interjects. "Rhett, why?!" Lisa nearly bawls. "I have been weighed down by this for too long; I am horrified that you want to turn a blind eye like this." "I'm simply having a more critical eye," says Rhett. "Jennifer said she wanted an explanation, and she's not the only one who's interested in finding the real truth behind this sort of thing." "When did this last happen? Just after the challenge, when the two of you weren't there?" Jennifer asks. Lisa solemnly nods. "I didn't even see her," says Buddy. "You had your turn," says Louie. "So did Denine," Buddy snaps, "but you let her keep going because she's the only one who puts up with you." "Come on, this is tribal council," says Rocky, "not a //trial// council." $v["Rocky, as someone not on this tribe looking in... was that supposed to be a joke?"] "I'm sure you already know he's a dumbass," says Jennifer. $v["Denine, do you know where all this bad blood is coming from?"] Denine nonchalantly points at Buddy. "Real mature," Buddy says quickly and in monotone. "It's true, though," says Denine. "Get bent." "Come on, guys! I don't want to be here all night. Lisa, how can we help?" Jennifer asks. "Just do what we all agreed on and vote Buddy out," says Lisa. "It would at least give me some closure." "Until Rhett starts touching you at night, I suppose," says Buddy. "What is THAT supposed to mean!?" Rhett yells. "I would never disrespect a lady like that!" "Exactly, but if Lisa says it then it must be true!" Buddy exclaims. "She's putting on a front because if you all vote me out, then that leaves Denine and Louie as a pair, Rhett and Jennifer as a pair, and she's sitting in the middle." $v["So you think you're being framed so Lisa can get farther in the game?"] "Why else would she do this? Half the tribe doesn't like me," says Buddy, "and she supposedly has enough votes against me already. She wants to look like a victim instead of a capable player." Denine looks disgusted, and opens her mouth to make a rebuttal, but says nothing. "That makes no sense," says Lisa. "Why would I be dishonest if you are on the way out?" "You're setting up the long game," says Buddy. "If you're in the middle then everyone will need you, and suddenly you have four firm allies going into the swap." "Why should we not listen to her over someone who continuously insults us to our faces?" Louie counters. "Then you're simply asking to be taken advantage of," Buddy replies. "Sometimes, you have to side with people you don't like. Get over it." $v["Louie, do you think there is truth to what Buddy is saying, or is this a last ditch attempt to save himself?"] "Whatever truth is not worth hearing it from him," says Louie. "That is not the kind of attitude we should be having," Rhett counters. "Do you want to be a sheep to whatever the loudest and most powerful voices demand of you?" "I hate these implications, Rhett..." Lisa buries her face in her hands. "Well, this is going nowhere fast," says Rocky. "Can we vote now?" "I'm not done yet," says Jennifer. "Buddy, it's easy to deny her, but you need an alibi. What were you doing when Lisa claims you were sexually assaulting her?" "Oh, is this really what this is about!?" Buddy snaps. "You think I would sexually assault her? Nothing she's said tonight is the truth." "ANSWER THE DAMN QUESTION," Jennifer roars. "You want to hear the truth? Here's some truth for you," Buddy snaps. "I would never do something like that to Lisa, even if she is a silicone Barbie bitch, and I have a great reason for it!" $v["Buddy, pipe down, you're not being interrupted."] Buddy takes a deep breath. "I. Am. Gay." Nobody on the tribe visibly reacts, except for Lisa, whose jaw drops. "Hell, I'll believe it," says Rocky. "You can hear it in his voice." "What's that supposed to mean?!" Buddy, Denine, and Jennifer ask loudly and in unison. Rocky rolls his eyes. "Who cares? I'm covering for you." Buddy clears his throat. "Well, if you want to hear some more truth... Lisa. You talked about your dad. You know, the one who died right before you flew out here? What was his name?" Lisa looks totally stunned by this question. "What? But he- I-" "You did tell us about him," says Louie. "Come on, Lisa, surely you know what your own dad's name was," says Buddy, completely seriously. "He's not dead, you asshole!" Lisa shrieks. "You said you never got to say goodbye to him!" "He was stuck in traffic! It was a poor choice of words!" "Or was it a woe-is-me strategic lie!? Or maybe you're lying right now!" "**SHUT UP!**" Jennifer screams, jumping out of her seat. "I've heard ENOUGH out of you two, and surely everyone else has too! Has anyone here NOT made up their minds? Because I want to vote, get this over with, and go to bed!" Everyone looks at Jennifer in shock, horror, or confusion. $v["I'll take that as a no. Rocky, do you want to give up immunity?"] "It would be kind of funny, after all this, if I wanted to save Buddy or Lisa," says Rocky. "But nah, it's not worth it." $v["Then it's time to vote. Louie, you are up first."] "Neither of them have idols," Louie whispers to Denine before getting up and going to vote. ... Lisa reveals her vote to be for **Buddy**. "Obnoxious piece of shit, I never want to see you again." Buddy reveals his vote to be for **Lisa**. "You can sit and spin, you little `c**t`." ... $votesarein $v["Buddy."] $v["Lisa. That is one vote each for Buddy and Lisa."] $v["Lisa."] Lisa shakes her head, but Rhett says, "you should have seen that coming." $v["Lisa. She leads with three."] Lisa's face turns from one of sorrow to one of rage. "Oh my god..." Jennifer places her forehead in her right palm, leaning forward onto her arm. $v["Third $boot is Lisa. You need to bring me your torch."] "Fuck you all," says Lisa. She gets up. "My dad is still alive." "Oh, Buddy was lying about that? Let me go and change my vote," says Rocky. "Oh wait." "He's still next," says Denine. "I don't care, Denine!" Lisa snaps. "You and Louie are the useless loads on this team, anyways!" She speed-walks to get her torch. "I'm sorry for doubting you, Buddy," says Jennifer. "Thanks, Jen," Buddy replies. "And thank you, too, Rhett." "No problem," says Rhett. "But you should know that I like girls." Lisa walks by the three, her torch (possibly intentionally) whacking Rhett in the head. She plants it in front of Vincent. $v["Lisa, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent extinguishes the blonde woman's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] "So stupid..." Lisa mutters under her breath as she walks out. $v["Tonight was a spectacle from start to finish,"] says Vincent. $v["I'm still trying to process what just happened there, but from the looks of it, you did your best to put an issue to rest. Lisa's argument wasn't good enough for her to stay. Let's hope that the future doesn't hold more of the same for you. You can head back to camp."] $c[//"I didn't do anything wrong, I just got stuck with a group of good-for-nothing dumbasses," says Lisa. "No, I don't think I could have kept up the act for 39 days, but to have it all unraveled because of a TRAFFIC JAM? I'd ask for a do-over, but I'd rather forget I was ever here." She buries her face in her hands. "I could really cry, but I'm out of tears."//] Voting Results: ''Lisa - Buddy, Denine, Jennifer, Louie, Rhett, $q[Rocky]'' Buddy - Lisa [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$t[**Day 10 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[five](replace: "votedpeople")[Chalpe plus Rocky] "Not bad," says Rocky. "You guys put on quite a show there." The Chalpe tribe collectively groans. "Why do you have to act so high and mighty?" Jennifer asks indignantly. "You're not better than us just because you guys won the last challenge. Considering you guys lost someone as well-" "Oh, please, like Buddy wasn't doing the same thing in the first round," says Rocky. "I wasn't," says Buddy. "I was the deciding vote, but I didn't rub that in their faces, I was too busy playing the game." Rocky scoffs. "Do you guys not know how to have fun or something?" "Fun!? We're surviving on two bowls of rice a day, if that," Jennifer snaps. "I'm hungry, I'm tired, I'm sick of this endless bickering between you three –" she points to Denine, Louie, and Buddy, "– and the last thing I want to do is throw a party." //"I'm up for a good time when a good time can be had," says Jennifer. "But now is not the time and not the place, and this is definitely not the kind of crowd I'd want to hang with. Especially not with Rocky in the peanut gallery."// "Relax, Jennifer," says Louie. "We all voted together, the right person left, let's not get so uptight over nothing." "The right person left?" Buddy raises an eyebrow. "That's funny. Based on what you were saying before, that's not what I thought you'd say." "Her torch is snuffed, that's what matters," says Louie. "Then why did you want to keep her so badly?" "I didn't really, her attitude was grating," Louie admits. "She just crossed a line at tribal with her lying about you," Denine adds. "Don't get me wrong, you're still a stubborn, loud-mouthed dick and I hate you." "The feeling's mutual," says Buddy. "Just grow up." //"Seeing that Denine and Louie are continuing to be horrible even after saving me," says Buddy, "I have to think they didn't do it out of the goodness of their hearts. I'm definitely going to need to make sure Rhett and Jennifer come on my side now."// $o[**Ochora**] The four members of the tribe that are present are enjoying the baked goods they won as a reward. "I'm really glad we got a win for once," says Ashleia. "Like, I think it just shows that we are capable and can put up a fight." "The only problem is that it was an individual challenge," says Jarrett. "The other sides have us beat when it comes to teamwork." "Can you blame us? I mean, look at who we've had to deal with," says Candace. "Rocky's self-centered and would gladly screw us out of first if it means someone he hates gets last. And since he got a point, he's going to gloat about it the second he gets back. As well, some leader Min-Ji turned out to be." Saul glares at Candace. "She is not here to defend herself. Please, no need to drag her name through the mud." "I'm just making an observation," says Candace. "She hardly had a chance to seek forgiveness," Saul replies. "It was a hard choice to make, Saul." Candace shakes her head. "But what's done is done." //"Saul has got to let go of the past," says Candace. "Yeah, we could have voted out Rocky, but we didn't. You can't always vote based on the purity of one's soul. I'm not here to find my inner Zen, I'm here to make bank."// "Hey, if I wanted to be in the middle of pointless bickering with a mouthful of semi-stale bread," Jarrett snaps, "I could host a family gathering. The guy we're all tired of listening to, he isn't even here right now." "I think I've lost my appetite," says Ashleia. "How could you have?" Jarrett asks. "You've had no more than three loaves." "I still have to watch my figure," Ashleia replies. "And, like, I gotta go easy on the carbs. We're short on protein sources as is." Candace and Jarrett share a confused expression. "Out here, you will certainly burn it off," says Saul. "Maybe later, when there's less drama about Min-Ji happening." Ashleia gets up and walks over to tend to the fire. //"Having someone like Rocky on our tribe is really getting to the others," says Ashleia. "I know they don't mean to be all wound up, but they need to be able to deal with it. If they can't keep their composure when nobody wants them out, I'm worried about what will happen later on."// "Okay everyone quiet for a minute," Saul says quickly. He closes his eyes, folds his hands, and hums very softly. Jarrett leans over to Candace and whispers, "Have you seen him concentrate this hard on something before?" "Can't say that I have," Candace replies in a similar whisper. "But I do sense a lot of anxiety." Jarrett continues to wait until Saul is done, while Candace takes the opportunity to glance into one of the baked good baskets and quietly pull out a slip of paper. //"So, Saul was trying extra hard to block everything out and focus on one of his visions, since someone usually interrupts him," says Candace. "It was perfect, because the ambient noise gave me the perfect cover to snag this." She holds up a small piece of slightly yellowed paper. "This is going to get me right to the idol, and I bet I can snag it before any of the guys can."// Saul's eyes snap open, and the humming stops. "Well I think that was the best I can get out here. But this is really important." "For our tribe?" Jarrett asks. "If it's going to help our tribe you should definitely tell us what you saw." Saul nods. "I saw this tribe... all five of us were on a boat. A storm came in, and we started to sink. There were two more ships that we called out to for help." "The other tribes," says Jarrett. "Is that all?" "Candace threw something overboard," says Saul. "Then a big wave came and lifted our boat into the air, and both of the other ships crashed into rocks." "Was there anything special about the rocks? Were there names on there, were they special colours, anything like that?" Saul shakes his head. "They were just rocks." "Did you notice anything about the other sailors?" Jarrett asks. "They were too far away, sadly." "Come on, Jarrett," says Candace, "it was a prophetic vision, not a political cartoon." //"I don't know exactly how truthful Saul's visions are," Jarrett admits, "but the guy has wings, so I'm not going to push my luck. All I know is that while he's with us, he could be a good source of information to help our tribe later down the road."// //"Jarrett thinks he can use me and get away with it," says Saul. "If I could divine everything whenever I wanted, I would not need this competition. It is clear to me now that it is Candace who holds the key to our success, not Jarrett, and when the time comes, I will make that clear."// $q[**Quibas**] Vaclav has gathered the rest of the tribe, and he is standing on the other side of the fire from his four tribemates. "Alright, welcome to your second tribal council," says Vaclav. "This is ridiculous," says Jackie. "But we haven't lit our torches yet," says Khall. He gets up. "I'm going to go get them so we-" "That's quite alright, Khall," says Vaclav. "Nobody is actually getting voted off. I just... I want to figure out what the problem is." "The problem with what?" Monty asks. "With our tribe, with us," says Vaclav. "We've all been kind of tense recently. I don't want to be headed for a fall, I want to be able to work out our differences." "So you put us all in the same space and ask leading questions?" Paula asks. "I know you mean well, but I don't think this will help." //"I'm not doing it for them," says Vaclav. "I'm doing it to calm my own nerves because I am SERIOUSLY flipping out here. Everyone here is smiling to your face but talking down behind your back, and I don't work well with that."// "Just give me a chance," says Vaclav. "Okay. Jackie, you wanted to vote Monty out last time and you didn't get your way. What did you have against him, and how are you going to address that?" "I was just voting with my alliance," says Jackie, "and I'll address it by continuing to have an alliance. Is that what you wanted to hear?" "Alliance schmalliance," Vaclav snaps. "That does not explain why you two don't give each other the time of day." "Because I know where my priorities lie," says Jackie. "And it's not with people like him." "I have been nothing but humble and grateful towards all of you," says Monty. "The fact that Jackie continues to hold some sort of vendetta is really upsetting. I don't raise my kids to be petty and hold grudges like that." Jackie runs her fingers through her hair. "Your kids would be terrible at Survivor then." "There's no reason to bring his kids into this, Jackie!" Paula exclaims. "You can't admit that you have any faults, or that anyone connected to you does." "Not true," Khall protests, "she will readily admit that I have faults!" "And being a bad ally is NOT one of them," says Jackie, "which is more than I can say for you." "You seriously think that chattering about endgame deals on day one makes us allies?" Paula's eyes go wide. "Do you not know how to read people?" "I do, I just didn't think you would screw up the way you did," Jackie replies. //"Paula can go off all she wants," says Jackie, "but at the end of the day, she's the one who got her way. She stabbed me in the back and acts like it's MY fault. Are you kidding me?"// "Monty, do you know what might be making Jackie this frustrated?" Vaclav asks. "Hell if I know," Monty replies. He spits onto the ground beside him. "What kind of question is that, Vaclav?" Jackie asks indignantly. "He knows DAMN well why I don't like him!" "Yeah Monty, how dare you not have washboard abs," says Paula flatly. "You think Jackie is just being vain?" Khall asks. "I can't think of any good reason," says Paula. Jackie opens her mouth to respond. "A GOOD reason," Monty adds. Vaclav throws his arms up. "Is this seriously what we've become, now?" "You're surprised?" Paula asks. "We all knew this wasn't going to end well. And I don't want to even look at Jackie anymore. Later." She walks off, headed to Town Square. //"I need time to think," says Paula. "I don't cope well in spaces where nobody has a filter. This is usually where I have another one of my friends step in, but I can't fight people like Buddy can without wanting to break down." She wipes her right eye with her hand.// "Why do I even bother..." Vaclav turns away and walks off in another direction, head down. "If we don't win again, he's going to be in for a rough night," says Monty. "Not to worry, because we are going to win," says Jackie. "Sucking is not an option." "It ain't good to be cocky," says Monty. "I mean, if we lose it won't be because of me, is all I'm saying." //"Where I'm from, if you do somebody wrong, you 'fess up," says Monty. "No good to keep people pissed. But I ain't see myself do nothing wrong. Jackie got problems, man."// $c[**Chalpe**] "At least we were on the same page." Denine is inspecting her hands, letting the fact that her nails will be dirty as long as she's competing sink in. Louie is lying on his back, watching the clouds. "What do you mean?" Louie asks. "Last night," says Denine. "We had each other's backs. And I imagine that last-minute whisper about the idols was your way of saying 'just get Lisa out'." "There was no use fighting it," Louie replies. "They were dead set on her. It's not like we had any sympathy towards her." "How did you know?" Denine asks. "Remember when I said I was going to go swimming?" Louie smirks. "I didn't, I went through her bag. And Buddy's... and Jennifer's... and Rhett's. All clear for now." "For now?" "I'll check again tonight probably." //"I checked Denine's too, just to be safe," says Louie. "Why wouldn't I? She's keeping me safe, but you can never be sure when that will change. I want to be ready if she ever gets any funny ideas."// "Well, at least we're safe for now, but we can't really be sure what the other three are up to," Denine admits. "Is this some kind of permanent arrangement they have now?" "One vote can't really cancel out more than a week of a bad first impression," says Louie. "I'm just unsure is all," says Denine. "We've got to keep our options open. No matter who left last night, that was our free pass. I'm thinking if we might have to see if we can get Buddy on our side to-" "Are you kidding me?" Louie narrows his eyes. "Wasn't all this going on because we never wanted to see him again?" "Jennifer and Rhett are tight," says Denine. "And I'm sure the teams are going to be shaken up soon. We don't want to be caught with a bunch of strangers and someone with a grudge against us." "Well you can go do that," says Louie, "and I'll stay here and do anything but that." //"I will not let anyone get under my skin," says Denine adamantly. "I can be a force to be reckoned with, and I think my tribe underestimates me right now. I just need to keep my eye on the prize and not take things personally."// $o[**Ochora**] Ashleia and Saul and talking together by the treemail box. "I know what I want to do, but I don't really know where Jarrett's head is at," Ashleia explains. "Like, when we voted out Min-Ji it was because she had hurt our tribe." Saul looks slightly disappointed with Ashleia for that remark. "I'm just saying," Ashleia protests. "But if we do that again, the person who's hurting us the most is Rocky, right? But every time I tell Jarrett, he says 'maybe'. Like, what can he be waiting for?" "He could be playing it safe," says Saul. "Rocky might have an idol. I do not have complete faith in Candace that she has prevented him from obtaining it." "I have more faith in Candace than I do in Jarrett," Ashleia confesses. "I respect him, but guys like him who have it all together... there's often something wrong with them." //"I have a good instinct with whether people are actually nice or just out for themselves," says Ashleia, "so I'm a bit disappointed that maybe Jarrett is not as solid as I thought. There's only, like, so many times you can go back on a promise."// "Jarrett has something of a consistency about him," Saul replies. "Candace has two personas, and they are in constant discord with each other. The thing I fear most is if they can both keep a secret from us." "That's why I trust you more than anyone else here," says Ashleia. "Well, that is a pleasant surprise, I suppose..." Saul blushes slightly. "It's true, though, the other people here are just subtly unreliable," says Ashleia. "I guess, kind of like that cute pair of shoes that go just with your outfit, but then you break them in and realize they aren't Prada, they're //Prodo//. Whether it's ten days or five hundred bucks, it's a bit of a waste." "Five hundred dollars is a 'bit of a waste' to you?" "Shoes are expensive!" Ashleia protests. Saul looks down at his feet. "I got these for ten dollars." //"It has been a little while since the last alliance I got was lost," says Saul. "I am hoping that my ties with Ashleia and Jarrett will be enough to keep me here, but considering Candace seems ready to work with Rocky now... I am hoping for a win."// "They sure look like ten-dollar shoes," came an all-too-familiar voice. "Hi, Rocky," says Ashleia as flatly as she can. "We're just... talking..." "Oh, I know, princess," says Rocky. "You aren't discussing any kind of blindside plan, are you?" "Neither of our priorities have been changed," says Saul. "You know, you're really bad at looking tough." Rocky chuckles. "You can talk to me, but don't bother trying to intimidate me." Saul gives Rocky a dirty look, but Rocky merely smirks. "Why can't you have a little respect?" Ashleia asks, crossing her arms. "Oh, you have no IDEA what I could be doing to you guys right now," says Rocky. Saul quickly steps backwards and to the side to physically close Rocky off from the conversation, while at the same time Rocky steps forward, intending to show off his rough claws. Rocky accidentally drives his nails right near the top of Saul's wing, causing Saul to loudly growl in pain. "Ow, what the hell, Rocky?" Rocky's eyes go wide. "I really didn't mean to do that, you just walked in the way and—" "What were you even trying to do? Because it hurts like a bitch!" Saul bites his lip. "Congratulations, you left a mark. Get lost, go be an arrogant little punk somewhere else!" Rocky, completely stunned, quietly backs away. //"I think I got a little blood," says Rocky quietly. "It doesn't feel good when you don't mean to hurt anyone."// "Do you need a medic?" Ashleia asks. "Does the medic have whiskey?" Saul groans. "Like, rubbing alcohol?" "Ash, //please// tell me you're kidding." [[Day 11<-Read Day 11]]

**Day 11** $q[**Quibas**] Vaclav is once again pacing back and forth, wringing his hands together. "I can't believe it... what on earth is wrong with me?" //"Yesterday I tried to get everyone to sort out their differences," says Vaclav. "It backfired, and everyone was just yelling at each other. But there's a part of me that thinks it was a bit too explosive, like it was all rehearsed before. Like they expected me to do something like this."// Somewhere else in camp, Paula is talking to Monty. "Have you seen Vaclav around? I kind of wanted to check in with him," says Paula. Monty shakes his head. "No clue, darlin'. He's been in a stink since yesterday, I s'pose." "I told him, I told him it was impossible to reason with the likes of Jackie," Paula adds. She shakes her head. "They never listen." "It's alright, we still got a chance to get through to him," says Monty. "Well, we're running out of time." Paula sighs. "Who knows when we'll swap? I know we have each others' backs, but can either of us trust him now?" //Vaclav takes a deep breath. "Monty was really on edge. And Paula seemed to go on the offensive with Jackie. That's out of character, for both of them. I've been with those two long enough to know it's not a coincidence. There must have been something that set them off that I'm not seeing."// "Have you decided who we're going to vote yet?" Khall asks. "For the hundredth time, no I have not," Jackie snaps. "It's only been 27 times," says Khall. "That's nice, but I wasn't counting. I didn't think I would need to," says Jackie. "I think I have a plan though. Vaclav has been on his own for a while, and Paula and Monty are still together. After yesterday's incident, I think Vaclav is sick of them. He's seen their true colours." "So, we side with him to vote one of them out?" Khall asks. "There's the sixth person who can mess things up for us," says Jackie. "If Ochora wins, then no matter who we get will probably be someone we can work with. We made a deal with that tribe, remember?" "But if we don't, then do we side with him and cause a tie?" "No, we switch sides!" Jackie clasps her hands together. "That's the best part. We backstab Vaclav when he THINKS he's in the middle. And then it's just us two against them two, and we can beat either of them in a tie." "There won't be a tie," says Khall. "We'd kidnap someone, remember? And if we vote him out, if they side with Monty and Paula then one of us will get voted out." "That's when you step in and take the bullet," says Jackie. "I'm not sure I like this plan." Jackie rolls her eyes. "You just don't see the bigger picture." //"Khall is the one I'm most worried about," says Vaclav. "He just doesn't understand things, and I don't want him to get tricked because he missed something important. Especially not if it means I get sent home over it. Hopefully Jackie can convince him to keep me in."// Back at camp, Paula is sitting in the shelter alone when Jackie walks past. "We got treemail," says Jackie, "and it's another challenge." "Think we can win this one?" Paula asks. "That's up to you," Jackie replies. "Bitch." Paula mutters under her breath. //"For all I know, they've already figured this out," says Vaclav, "and are just leading me on until they stab me in the back. But I'm not done yet, they'll see!"// **Immunity Challenge** Each tribe has a board of nine tiles, that they will attempt to break with rocks. Two members from each tribe will need to collect bags of rocks and run them to a conveyer belt, where two more members will manually crank a conveyor belt to move the rocks to the thrower. The thrower will open the bags and attempt to break all nine tiles with the rocks inside. First tribe to do so wins immunity and will have a latrine installed at their camp, the second tribe will only win immunity, and the third-place tribe will go to tribal council. Bag Collectors: $c[Denine and Louie], $o[Ashleia and Saul], $q[Khall and Paula] Conveyor Belt Crankers: $c[Buddy and Jennifer], $o[Jarrett and Rocky], $q[Monty and Vaclav] Throwers: $c[Rhett], $o[Candace], $q[Jackie] Chalpe is quickly weighed down by Louie tripping immediately upon the challenge starting, leaving Denine to pick up the slack. Paula retrieves her tribe's first bag and puts it on the conveyor. Vaclav starts cranking as hard as he can, and Monty struggles to keep up, much to Vaclav's surprise. Denine and Saul deliver their first bags, and their tribes start to crank faster than Quibas can. Khall and Ashleia waste no time in adding their bags to the moving conveyor belts. The first bag reaches Jackie, and she opens it to find three rocks. After throwing all three she only breaks one tile. Rhett and Candace get their first bags. Rhett hits two tiles and Candace misses every time. Louie finally delivers his first bag just as Paula brings her second. The next bags then reach Jackie and Candace, and they each break two. Denine, Saul, Ashleia, and Khall all deliver bags at around the same time. Buddy and Jennifer continue to crank quickly and in unison. Monty is cranking the conveyor belt carefully, with Vaclav closely mirroring his speed. Meanwhile Jarrett and Rocky are both pushing themselves, with Jarrett starting to get a bit overwhelmed. Rhett and Jackie open the next pair of bags. Rhett hits one tile, and Jackie manages to break all three. Jackie now has three tiles left, Rhett has six, and Candace has seven. When the next round of bags comes in, all three throwers scramble to open their bags. Rhett breaks two tiles, Candace breaks two tiles, and Jackie breaks one and throws another through where a tile used to be. As the bags begin to pile up, Jarrett's cranking begins to slow down, much to Rocky's annoyance. Rocky insults Jarrett's "noodle arms" and tries to do the cranking by himself. He quickly discovers how much he needs Jarrett's input. Eventually, after missing completely with one bag, Jackie breaks both of her remaining tiles with the next bag of rocks. $q[Quibas wins immunity and a latrine for their camp!] Rhett and Candace, having failed to close the gap, are stuck waiting for the conveyor belts to give them more bags. A combination of Rhett's better focus and Jennifer and Buddy's higher stamina allows Rhett to clinch the victory while Candace has only one tile left to break. $c[Chalpe wins immunity!] $o[Ochora loses and will have to vote out someone at tribal council.] The defeated Ochora is instructed to pick someone from Quibas to kidnap, additionally being told they cannot pick Paula. Jarrett quickly chooses Jackie to head with them back to camp. $c[**Chalpe**] Jennifer and Buddy have a quick exchange right after they return to camp. "It's not first, but we aren't losing anyone tonight," says Buddy. "See how much more capable we can be without Lisa?" Jennifer smiles. "I think you've made your point, Buddy. Consider this an apology of sorts for jumping on the bandwagon." Buddy shrugs. "I see why you did it. Honestly, I would have if I was in your position." "Whew, thank goodness." Jennifer puts a hand on Buddy's shoulder. "And worst case, you wouldn't have gone anywhere if we lost tonight." Buddy's eyes light up. "So, you're saying... we're cool?" "Cool enough to trust you to vote out Louie with us," says Jennifer. "He's a liability now, and I honestly think it's worth maybe having Denine pissy at us for a while." "But if Ochora gets dissolved and we get two new members tomorrow," Buddy asks, "how do we make sure that those two side with us and not Denine and Louie?" "Honestly, we might not need to," Jennifer replies. "If we somehow get Rocky, we take his ass out first. Then we just make sure whoever's left can see exactly what those two contribute around here." //"I'm dreading the possibility that Rocky survives twice and ends up here," says Jennifer. "That one half-day he was here was miserable for all of us, and if he acts like that when we need to depend on each other, I'm not going to let it slide."// //"Jennifer has completely changed her tone, and it's a welcome change to have someone else see what I've been seeing the whole time," says Buddy. "Denine and Louie do nothing around camp. I would have thrown the challenge if I knew that was the consensus. It's a little late for that, but there's nothing for me to cry over – I'm finally not on the bottom!"// $o[**Ochora**] Candace, Jarrett, Saul, and Ashleia are discussing what to do by the fire pit. "This is obvious, right? We just vote Rocky out and be done with it?" Candace asks. Candace nods. "We have that deal with Jackie, right? We picked exactly the right person to do this with." "There is an arrangement in place with that entire tribe to vote him out," says Saul. "No matter what, we cannot falter on this." Everyone agrees. //"An arrangement with the entire tribe? I don't recall making a deal with anyone besides Jackie, or else I would have picked someone besides Jackie," says Jarrett. "I don't know what he meant by that, but it can't be good."// Rocky, meanwhile, has decided to give Jackie an impassioned plea for survival. "If you want to work with these chumps, go ahead," says Rocky. "I won't stop you, but it will be your last mistake." "Uh huh," says Jackie. "And who do you want out?" Rocky shrugs. "Take your pick! Jarrett, Saul, Ashleia, they're all problems I need dealt with. Just tell me who you're voting for, and I'll pull some strings to make that happen." //"I don't care about what Jackie is doing, I just want her to stay out of my way," says Rocky. "I want her to vote for anyone that isn't someone I care about, so all I need is two people voting the way I want them to... and I know exactly who to use."// Candace is busy looking at the post which holds the treemail box. She gently lifts the treemail box off of a small shelf, revealing that it was covering a small item wrapped with paper and tied with twine. She excitedly grabs the trinket and replaces the treemail box. "This better be it, but I have no time to check..." she says to herself. She tucks the package into her pocket and briskly walks back to the shelter, where she runs into Jarrett. "Hey Jarrett," she says, "have you seen Rocky at all recently?" "Can’t say that I have," Jarrett replies. "But do you think he found the idol?" Candace tenses up slightly. "Jarrett, I've told you before. I would have sensed it. He's still emanating some anxiety, but if he had the idol, he would be ready to play it tonight." "See, the others think he does have it," says Jarrett. "Saul has a plan to coax the idol out of him. He's trying to convince Ashleia and Jackie to vote against you instead." //"I thought Saul was the paragon of purity and forgiveness, but I think his behaviour towards Candace and Rocky recently has been more than telling," Jarrett explains. "The only problem is Rocky has proven he can turn the tide in his favour."// "And he thinks he can just get away with it?" Candace crosses her arms. "You know what, no. Rocky sucks, but if we can keep him over Min-Ji we can keep him over Saul. I'm voting him out." "It's not too late to do that?" Jarrett asks. "Not if we tell Rocky," says Candace. "How do we know he isn't already trying to scramble the vote up as we speak? If just one person flakes, we can take Saul out." //"What makes you think it's a good idea to overplay like that when you KNOW how that ended up for someone just five days ago?" Candace exclaims. "When I see something like that, I will absolutely call it out. I'm not going to stand for it!"// "Should one of us go talk to him?" Jarrett asks. "What do you think?" Candace asks calmly. "Who can make the better pitch?" "What if we both tell him, so he sees he does have the numbers?" "We can do that." Candace shakes Jarrett's hand. Meanwhile, Saul is busy talking to Jackie. "Have you already been informed by Paula about my proposition?" Saul asks. Jackie shakes her head. "I don't even listen to half of what she says anymore. And the other half is not strategy." "I have proposed that I will join forces with any member of your tribe to support your goals," Saul explains, "as I have lost faith in some members of this tribe." "That's nice. Tell me how I should vote," says Jackie. "Rocky," says Saul. "Ashleia is with me on this. The other two are simply not options at this point in time." "I see." Jackie rubs her chin in thought. "Okay, so you want me to just vote him and nobody else." "Correct." //"I want to show Jackie that she can trust me, despite her quarrels with Paula," says Saul. "I am not a privy to those, I am only aware of the problems I may face if I continue to put Ochora first. I will determine tonight who I can pursue a common agenda with."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The Ochora Tribe, with Jackie, walks into the tribal council building. Each of them have already ignited their torches, and simply place them behind the seats. $v["Welcome back, all of you. Jarrett, last challenge you were all on your own, and you pulled off your first win. But every time you need to work together, you wind up here. Is that a pattern?"] "It might be," says Jarrett. "I'd like to think that we can get along and work together. But I guess we don't work well when we're forced to watch each other's every move." $v["Watching each other's every move? Jarrett, it's called communication."] "Then I guess that's the problem?" Jarrett shrugs. $v["Saul, does this tribe have a communication problem?"] "No, I think we have communicated our goals effectively," says Saul. "I believe it is merely pressure of challenges that holds us back. We find it difficult to rely on and trust each other." $v["Rocky, I can't help but feel this is directed towards you."] "Of course, it is," says Rocky. "I don't like him. I don't want to have to rely on him for anything." "I wish you could only put that aside for us to work better and not be faced with elimination," Saul replies. "And I wish //you// would stop being such a goody goody snoozefest," Rocky snaps. "But some of us have principles." "This is the problem," says Saul. "Oh, sure, I'm the problem. You've had it out for me since the start." Rocky scowls. "Because you've been acting like this the whole time!" Candace snaps. "You're on the bottom because you're toxic!" "Says you," says Rocky, "but you know what will happen if you vote me out." $v["Ashleia, a lot of these arguments came up last time, and we saw Min-Ji leave instead. What makes this time different?"] "I don't know if it is different yet," says Ashleia. "But we don't have someone caught in a lie right now. There is only one person left that is, like, doing us harm I guess?" "So, you'll do absolutely anything to get rid of me?" Rocky asks. "Now, tell me. What if I happened to be... safe tonight?" "Umm..." Ashleia stops to think. "I don't know, really. But I'm... I'm still voting you out tonight." Rocky rolls his eyes and chuckles. $v["Jackie, where do you stand on this? Would it be better for you to score some points with another tribe, or make a big move to further your own game?"] "Right now, I'm trying to further my own game," says Jackie. "I don't have to worry about having a target on my back, so I'm just looking for what will put me in the best spot going forward." "Do you want one grateful person," says Saul, "or do you want four?" "I'm not going to do what I'm about to do so I can have people be grateful," says Jackie. "I want allies. And if you can't help me, then you can get out." $v["You do not want to give up immunity, then?"] Jackie crosses her arms. "No way." $v["Then it's time to vote. Rocky, you are up first."] ... Rocky reveals his vote to be for **Saul**. "Get well soon but do it someplace else." Saul reveals his vote to be for **Rocky**. "I envisioned a smaller but successful tribe. You, my friend, are dead weight." Jackie writes down her vote but does not reveal it. "I see what's really going on here. You might deny it but you're my biggest threat." ... $votesarein $v["Saul."] Saul closes his eyes, but otherwise does not react. $v["Candace. That is one vote each for Saul and Candace."] "Wait, what?" Ashleia looks confused. "What are you talking about?" Candace asks. "This was your plan, wasn't it?" $v["Rocky. One vote each, three votes left."] Candace stops, now looking more confused than Ashleia. $v["Rocky. Two votes Rocky, one each for Saul and Candace."] "That's my vote," says Ashleia. "I thought we were sticking with the same plan?" "I could have sworn you-" Candace stops. "Oh God." $v["Next vote... Saul. One vote left."] "Well, thank you for the pleasant experience," says Saul. "Jarrett," Candace asks with an icy glare, "what did you do?" Jarrett tries to look away from Candace, while Rocky can barely keep himself together. $v["Final vote, and the fourth $boot, is **Saul**. You need to bring me your torch."] "I can't believe it..." Ashleia looks almost forlorn. "That was beautiful," says Rocky. "You assholes!" Candace yells. "I can't believe you would... ARGH!" Saul leans over and gives Ashleia a hug, before getting up and bringing his torch over to Vincent. $v["Saul, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent extinguishes the pale man's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] Saul heads out the door with his head held high. Ashleia looks hurt, and Jackie is busy taking in the scene around her, but both watch Saul as he walks out. $v["And once again we have a supposed consensus spoiled by a blindside,"] says Vincent, $v["but this time could be the real start of this game for you. You can head back to camp."] $o[//"I suppose my intuition was a bit too accurate for my own good," says Saul. "The first vote was upsetting to me, and I believe I might have lost it there and been unable to recover. I merely hope that Ashleia has better luck than me and does not repeat my mistakes."//] Voting Results: ''Saul - Candace, Jarrett, Rocky'' Rocky - Ashleia, Saul Candace - $q[Jackie] [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$t[**Day 12 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[four](replace: "votedpeople")[Ochora plus Jackie] "You know, you could have just told me the truth instead of leaving me in the dark like that," says Jackie. "We DID tell you the truth," says Candace. "We said to vote Rocky, and then you go ahead and try to backstab me? I don't know about what happens on Quibas, but you can't expect to get away with that here." "Well, to be honest," says Jackie, "that's your guys' fault that you don't know how to actually play the game." "Excuse me!" Candace snaps. Jackie huffs, and crosses her arms. "Is it wrong to assume you were trying to tell me something by saying everyone's name BUT Candace's? How could I have known that you didn't want her out?" "Didn't Saul and Ash tell you they were going to blindside me?" "Oh, is that what you told her?" Rocky smirks at Jarrett. "Yeah, elaborate," Candace snaps. "What the fuck, Jarrett!?" //"This is too perfect!" Rocky grins widely. "Not only did I get yet another bore out, but it was under the guise of protecting myself, and it's Jarrett who went **out of his way** to take all the blame for it! Ha ha! He was the new tribe leader, he has no excuse!"// "Look, Candace, I'm sorry for lying to you," says Jarrett, "but I couldn't convince Ashleia to turn on him. And like it or not, Rocky's not the one who went behind our backs to cut a better deal for himself." "He wouldn't betray us!" Ashleia exclaims. "Is that why you did it?" "Saul told us that he had a deal with the whole tribe. We only had one with Jackie and her weird friend," says Jarrett. "I couldn't take the chance that he would flip on us." "Um, I never heard about this!" Jackie protests. "Saul wasn't connected to us any more than you were." "Did you ask Paula and Monty?" asks Jarrett. "He allied with WHO!?" Jackie clenches her fists. "Oh. My God. Why didn't you just say so!" "He liked us, Jarrett, he wouldn't have wanted to flip," says Ashleia. "You never know," says Jarrett. "I didn't know if the first vote would be held against us." //"I couldn't have done it any other time," Jarrett explains. "Saul just was too dangerous. If his premonitions were real, that could help him in a way that it could never help Rocky. And now the swap should be fast approaching, and we'll have more important things to worry about than a little white lie. At least, I hope I don't have to re-evaluate my standing with Candace."// "Well now you can't really get rid of me since you need the strength," says Rocky. "Good work." "I have more strength than you do," says Jarrett. "Spray painting railway cars isn't exercise." "Neither is being a huge dork," says Rocky, "and yet that one guy on Jackie's tribe seems to be benefitting from it. So, I don't know what happened with you." "You think Vaclav is a dork?" Jackie asks, slightly offended on his behalf. "With a name like that? Of course," says Rocky. //"Rocky needs to learn to shut the hell up," says Candace. "And then he needs to do that... forever. His voice is like trying to start a car when the engine's already running! Why is that stupid burnout so arrogant?!"// $c[**Chalpe**] "If we won that challenge, you know he'd be gone," says Rhett. The entire tribe is sitting between the firepit and the shelter, discussing the tribal council. "It sounds to me like they don't like him any more than we do," Jennifer replies. "I'd say it's likely they voted him out. If they didn't, then that's just giving the five of us a freebie." Rhett nods. "If Rocky is still around by the halfway point it's because the production team wants him to be around." "Or maybe he's actually a capable player behind all that immaturity," says Denine. Buddy scoffs. "With his social skills? No way, I'd chalk it up to luck." "I mean he's still more likable than you are," says Louie. "You really think that?" Buddy snaps. "Because that's bull. It's not my fault if you take offense when-" "Everything that's gone wrong here can be traced back to you." "You're blaming ME for LISA? Are you high!?" //"Louie has absolutely no right to be that smug," says Buddy. "He makes drama instead of making food. He's trying to slander me even when nobody believes him. I'm never going to work with that waste of space, and you can count on that."// "Don't try to twist my words to suit your little narrative," says Louie. "I'm not doing that," Buddy interjects. "I'm responding to what you just said." "You didn't take the context into account," Louie replies calmly. "Context? What context?" says Jennifer. "That was the first thing you said." "Nobody asked you, Jennifer!" Louie snaps. "Nobody asked for your input either," says Jennifer. //"Jennifer needs to get her ego in check," says Louie. "She's not the boss of any of us. She's not a judge. We let her speak for the tribe one time on the first day, for a decision we were all in agreement on!"// "We're forgetting the important thing here," says Rhett. "When Rocky was here, he caused more needless frustration and agitation than anyone actually on this tribe. If Ochora doesn't make the right decision and vote him out, we need to band together and clean up their mess." "I think that's a good short-term goal," says Denine. "If we get the opportunity to take him out, we should have a truce until that can happen." "I don't like the idea that we need a truce," Jennifer replies. "Aren't we a team?" "Personally, I don't feel any team spirit," says Louie. "That doesn't matter," says Rhett. "We just need to focus on making sure nobody on the other tribes can have the game handed to them on a silver platter!" //"Yes, we've established that Rocky sucks, it helps me get to sleep every night," says Denine. "But saying he's done more bad than anyone here combined? Rhett's a mental case, now. Just look at who we're dealing with to see how untrue that is."// $q[**Quibas**] Paula and Monty are sitting together in the shelter. "I've been stewing on something for a little while," says Paula. "I want to tell you and only you because I think you'll... be cool with it in a way nobody else really can be." "Go on," says Monty. "You aren't the only person here that I feel close to," Paula admits. "Do you have feelings for Vadsy?" Monty asks. "What? No, no I don't!" Paula protests. "I know young love when I see it," says Monty. "You ain't head over heels crazy, but he's lit a spark in-" "No, he hasn't, moving on!" //"It's been long enough, in game terms, that I can trust Monty with knowing more about me," Paula admits. "Particularly, the fact that I'm friends with Buddy from outside the game. I told him that I know he can rely on Buddy the same way I can, if he ever needs it."// "That's not against the rules, is it?" Monty asks. "We didn't plan this," Paula replies, "but it's an opportunity I'm not going to pass up. And you've been such a good friend, and I know you won't use this against me." "I would never sell you out," says Monty, before spitting on the ground. "That's why you need to promise me to not tell anyone else," says Paula. "I beg of you. We both know Jackie and Khall can't be trusted, and if Vaclav finds out then he'll have power over not only me, but also you and Buddy." "I promise I won't tell anyone that you're friends with him," Monty replies. //"I thank Paula for tellin' me," says Monty. "It shows she's not trying to use me. I knew she was an honest girl."// Meanwhile, Vaclav is talking to Khall. "Are you worried about what will happen today?" Vaclav asks. "I am," says Khall. "The new latrine we got... it rubs me the wrong way. It's like there's something inside waiting to come out." "Out of the latrine? What could possibly-" "I don't know, but there's something about dark circular holes," Khall explains. "They give me the creeps. I don't like not being able to see what's at the other end of something." Vaclav stares blankly at Khall's face, which is still completely obscured by a shadow cast by his hood. "Really." "I think we need to take turns watching it to make sure no reality warpers use it as a gateway to this dimension." Khall sighs. "Especially not conventionally attractive young men with colour-coordinated outfits. I've had my fair share of those already, and I know this season is supposed to be more grounded in realism." "I was talking about the swap!" Vaclav shouts. "Are you not afraid that we're going to lose this tribe or the rewards?" Khall nods. "You're the only other one I trust to keep watch on the latrine. One of us needs to be here or bad things will happen!" "Stop talking about the latrine!" Vaclav goes slightly pale. "I've worked really, **really** hard to keep this group together. I think my position is okay. I don't want to be at the bottom. And if the people I've known for over a week can't be trusted, then anyone I've only seen for a few minutes at most outside challenges... they definitely can't be!" //"This is the anxiety I'm worried about with him," says Khall. "It's smart to be aware of your surroundings, but he's trying to invent things for him to see. He is the only one worried as much as he is, and it doesn't look good on him."// **Reward Challenge** As the tribes coalesce in the challenge area, Buddy has a quick confessional saying that he's ready for a shake-up. He says it would be good to be around new people that he can start fresh with, and even better to maybe be able to actually work together with Paula. Vincent tells the tribes that Quibas's secret advantage from the previous challenge is that they are not going to be dissolved. He says the tribe with the worse challenge history will be dissolved, and that happens to be $o[Ochora]. Denine asks if Ochora will be divided between the two remaining tribes, and is told no, that both tribes will completely swap. Vincent reveals two platforms, each with seven buckets and a rope attached. One platform is labeled $q[Quibas], and one is labeled $c[Chalpe]. He instructs the non-dissolved tribes to stand underneath the bucket on their tribe's platform and grab a hold of the rope. He then tells the four members of Ochora to pick one of the four vacant buckets. Candace and Ashleia go to the Quibas side, and Jarrett and Rocky go to the Chalpe side. $v["In these buckets are water that is coloured either indigo or light pink. If you get covered in indigo water, you will go to Quibas. If you get covered in light pink water, you will go to Chalpe. Quibas side, when I say pull, pull your rope. Three, two, one, //pull!//"] (colour: blue + blue + white)[//Splash!//] $q[Jackie, Khall, Monty, and Paula remain on the Quibas tribe.] $c[Ashleia, Candace, and Vaclav will be heading to Chalpe.] Vincent turns to the Chalpe side. $v["Old Chalpe, as well as Jarrett and Rocky. Three of you will go to Quibas, while four of you will go to Chalpe. Three, two, one, //pull!//"] (colour: blue + blue + white)[//Splash!//] $q[Denine, Jennifer, and Rocky will be heading to Quibas.] $c[Buddy, Louie, and Rhett remain on Chalpe, and Jarrett will join them.] $v["Since Ochora did not have anything but a tarp to their name, I will be taking it back, and no rewards are being moved. You all can head out."] **Day 12, After the Swap** $q[**Quibas**] Jackie, Khall, Monty, and Paula arrive back at camp. They stop and turn around, watching Denine, Jennifer, and Rocky follow them into the clearing. "You're part of a winning tribe now," says Jackie. "We have, like, the best record, and we're hoping you three can help us out with that. But I do NOT have high hopes." "Shut up, Jackie," says Paula. "Make yourselves comfortable, guys." "Comfortable? In this dump?" Rocky crosses his arms. "Shut up, Rocky," says Jennifer. "He's right, though," Denine adds. //"Let's see, I lost Louie, so that sucks," says Denine. "I lost Rhett, too, in case he ever decided to stop being a moron. And now I'm in the minority with fucking Rocky. Shoot me now."// "Do you two girls have any history we should be knowin' about?" Monty asks, looking at Jennifer and Denine. "I hope not," says Jennifer. "She's alright." "Jennifer's okay," says Denine. Both show their displeasure at the other's half-hearted answer. "Off to a great start," Khall says in monotone. "It will be a great start if you guys are fun to be around," says Rocky. "You won't like his definition of fun," says Jennifer. Rocky smirks. "I never said it would be fun for the rest of you." //"So the three new people are coming in with some baggage, which is great news for us," says Paula. "As much as Jackie's been a pain in the neck, I know better than to be petty when we barely have the numbers. Let them not get along, and our four can just pressure them into turning on each other."// $c[**Chalpe**] Rhett leads the new members of the tribe – Ashleia, Candace, Jarrett, and Vaclav – to the Chalpe site, since Buddy and Louie refused to let each other do it. "If you have any questions, just ask," says Rhett. "It doesn't matter what happened before, you have a clean slate here. Welcome to Chalpe." "I find that hard to believe," says Vaclav. "Are you trying to start something?" Rhett asks. "No, not at all! I just have every right to be wary," Vaclav explains. "I'm the only one here from my own tribe, all of the rest of you have two people you're familiar with. The kidnapping twist means you don't need me as a swing vote. I don't like my new position here, is that fair for me to say?" "It might not have been the appropriate time," says Ashleia. "He's trying to be, like, a gracious host. Which is more than I can say for the others." "And a good afternoon to you too." Louie glares. //"I was hoping that I didn't end up somewhere dysfunctional again," says Jarrett. "Though between having to deal with Louie and Buddy's fighting, and Vaclav's playing the victim, I have my work cut out for me."// "Anyways... it's nice to meet you guys!" Buddy smiles warmly. "I'm Buddy, this is Rhett, and the one who's... already asleep it seems is Louie." He extends his hand. Candace takes his hand and shakes it firmly. "Candace. And that's Ashleia and Jarrett." Buddy looks over at Vaclav, expecting an answer. Vaclav nods and says his name quietly. "There's really nothing to be awkward over," says Buddy, letting go of Candace's hand. "You have a full day to get to know us, after all." //"I just want to make a good first impression on the newcomers, since now there are more of them than of us," explains Buddy. "Which is great, honestly, if they can use those numbers to get rid of Louie. I think voting out Lisa emboldened him somehow, which is absurd because I did that. I'm willing to give Vaclav some adjustment time to see that he's not the obvious target."// [[Day 13<-Read Day 13]]

$c[**Chalpe**] The five males of the tribe are sitting around the fire. Jarrett is stroking his chin while talking to Vaclav, while Buddy, Louie, and Rhett are mostly just listening. "You know those guys better than all of us," says Jarrett. "But now you're on our tribe so that means they're the enemy. None of us know anything about any of them." Buddy winces. Rhett sees this out of the corner of his eye but doesn't react. "So why should I just give you all I know?" Vaclav replies. "Seems to me like you just want to use me for information." "It's information we'll find out eventually, anyways," says Jarrett. "But you guys were really strong once you ditched the dead weight." "There won't be two swaps," says Buddy. "The next time we'll be sharing a camp with Quibas is at the merge, and then there's no teams." "You want me to tell you guys how to use their abilities?" Vaclav asks. "Why not?" says Buddy. //"I would like to know what Vaclav knows about the other tribe," says Buddy, "because there's some things that Paula knows better than to tell me. There's no more Ochora to team up against, we have to either beat them or we lose."// "To be perfectly honest... I don't really know." Vaclav clasps his hands together. "If something is going to bring them down, it might be internal. They don't really get along." "Then let's make sure we don't have those problems ourselves," says Jarrett. "That means you." He looks over at Buddy and Louie. "It doesn't matter what happened before we got here. Circumstances are different now, the least you two can do is be civilized." "Or don't interact with each other, if that's what it takes," adds Rhett. "You don't have a lot of faith in them, do you?" Vaclav asks. "You need to have been here," says Rhett. "I hope we can put it aside." Buddy looks over at Louie. "Being angry all the time is exhausting." "Yeah, I'm tired of it too," says Louie. "Just don't do anything selfish and we'll be fine." "I guess that's the best I'm going to get out of you," Buddy mutters. //"I don't play games with people. I tell them exactly what I think of them," says Louie. "And if that's a problem for Buddy, or Rhett, or any of these new guys, I don't care. And if I can't get rid of someone who gets in my way, I will make their life hell."// "Maybe I should give you guys a minute," says Vaclav. "I have all I need." He gets up and walks away from the others. After waiting a minute, Jarrett speaks up. "I'm serious about you needing to put the past in the past," he says. Louie rolls his eyes. "I'm sorry, are we supposed to 'try harder' or something?" "More like, 'keep your damn mouth shut'," Jarrett snaps. "I'm not going to be on a tribe of losers again. The girls are fine with me, and I already don't like the look of Vaclav. If we lose, we take him out." "You sure he isn't the reason his tribe was winning so much?" Rhett asks. "We shouldn't vote out a strong player. We need to win challenges so Rocky's tribe can not win challenges." "I don't think so," says Jarrett. "Physical, maybe, but really timid. If we're counting on him to win something for all of us, he'll fold like a wet paper towel." //"It makes sense that Jarrett doesn't want us to consider voting out one of the women," says Rhett. "They're from his tribe, they're numbers in his corner. But they blew two opportunities to cut out the cancer, and nobody should get away with inflicting that on the rest of us."// $q[**Quibas**] Paula is standing near where Monty, Jackie, and Khall are sitting. She is watching Rocky trying to repair the shelter. "Why did you guys use so many leaves and stuff?" Rocky mutters to himself. "This weaving business is frustrating. We all got tarps, didn't we?" Paula shakes her head. //"I thought the whole point of getting a tarp was that we wouldn't have to put up with this leaf weaving business," Rocky explains. "Jarrett and I didn't do it, and we didn't get soaked at night. It all feels redundant, but since Denine and Jennifer already don't like me, I should try and earn some points with the other guys."// After snapping one too many leaves, Rocky tosses his shoddy handiwork into the firepit. Paula looks back to her other tribemates. "I think we should make sure we're on the same page." "What do you mean?" Monty asks. "The four of us, we all know each other," says Paula. "I know we don't exactly get along, but sometimes it's the devil you know versus the devil you don't. We need to keep each other safe." Monty and Khall nod, while Jackie has no expression. "There are four of us, and if we can't get Vaclav back then we're deadlocked," Paula explains. "That's a tempting target for the other three to maybe lower our numbers." "So we should make sure those three don't like each other," says Jackie. "Then they won't team up." "We could also ask someone to side with us," says Khall. "You don't just vote someone out because you don't like them." //"I didn't want to vote anyone out before," says Khall. "Everyone is just that nice. We have a chance to all keep each other, and I think we should try and do that."// "From what I've seen of Rocky, I'm not sure we should really associate with him unless we absolutely have to," says Paula. "So that leaves one of the girls," says Jackie. "That's, like, great because I work better with girls anyways." "I don't think you do," Paula replies. "We'll see about that," says Jackie. //"Okay, so I'm going to just let Paula and Monty think what they want to think for now," says Jackie. "But I know when things start getting difficult, they're going to have to come to me and play by my rules. We have four, they have four, so if they want to keep that four, they need to listen to me."// $c[**Chalpe**] Ashleia is standing by the well, taking a small amount of water to splash her face with. "You might not want to do that," says Buddy, standing nearby. "That's our only source of water." "Oh, sorry," says Ashleia sheepishly. "I just needed to freshen up a little, I guess." Buddy inhales, preparing to say something, then stops himself. "Okay, I understand. Sorry, Ashleia. Can I tell you something?" "I mean, go ahead," says Ashleia. "Okay, so the guys and I were just talking." Buddy crosses his eyes. "Jarrett says he wants us to agree to vote out Vaclav." "Well, that's fine with me," she says. "I just wish he told me first." "Were the two of you close, when you were on Ochora?" Buddy asks. Ashleia nods. "We worked together, at first. But then he went behind our backs to vote out Saul." "So that's who I have to thank for Rhett's recent obsession? Good to know." //"Am I happy with Jarrett for how he, like, played around last time? No, I'm not," says Ashleia. "But this is just, like, exactly why I don't like working with men like that, you know? I should remind him that I'm capable, too."// "You don't want to get back at him, do you?" Buddy asks. Ashleia shakes her head. "I'm afraid of being next if I do that. I don't want to just follow his lead, though..." "Then who do you want to vote out?" "Can we, like, vote out Louie, maybe?" Ashleia curls a lock of her hair in her fingers. "I dunno, he's-" "A smug little asshat who has it coming?" Buddy's eyes light up as he says this. "...kind of overweight." //"Hell yes! It's only a matter of time until he starts up his irritating and not clever remarks again, anyways," says Buddy. "Ashleia just met the damn guy and she's already on board. Now it's time for me to get to work on making this happen."// Meanwhile, Louie is lying in the shelter, with his eyes closed. Vaclav is sitting next to him, twiddling his thumbs. "I feel like I was doing better on my old tribe, even if they might have been plotting to backdoor me," admits Vaclav. "So this swap is frustrating for me. Can I even make a good impression when the odds were against me as soon as I picked up a pink buff?" "You grow to hate that little piece of fabric," Louie says with a grunt. "The people who I thought kind of understood me," says Vaclav, "aren't even here. I could go to the Town Square but that will just isolate me further. Either way I'm alone and vulnerable." "Yeah, the only one here who wasn't terrible is on your old tribe now," says Louie. "She needs to make it out alive. If I'm stuck with all these jerkoffs at the merge without her, it won't be pretty." "I'll be here to talk to," says Vaclav, "it's not hopeless without her." Louie makes a nondescript groan. //"Louie doesn't like anyone here," says Vaclav, "and everyone else probably has it out for me already because this swap ruined me. So, we kind of have a common outlook. He's kind of mean, but I can't really be picky." He sighs. "An immunity idol would be great right about now."// $q[**Quibas**] Jennifer and Denine are standing by a river that runs near the Quibas camp, using makeshift spears to try and catch some fish. "I was definitely hoping that we would still have the numbers after a swap," says Jennifer. "It's a bummer, yeah." Denine stabs at the river, missing everything. "It's not over, though. We got a while." "Have you thought about what we're going to do yet?" Jennifer asks. "Not really." //"When we first got here, we didn't jump into making alliances right away," says Denine. "Well, at least I didn't. I don't see how right now is any different. I'll make my decision on where I stand when the time is right; I'm not going to put myself in a box."// "We know Rocky, and we know that he's a jackass," says Jennifer. "So, unless we're the pinnacle of strength then he's a lost cause." "Mhm." Denine keeps focused on the river. "But there are four people on Quibas, and they haven't lost anyone since day 3," Jennifer continues. "I think they might be ready to crack. I think Buddy said he was the swing vote, which means that they either have someone on the outs, or they're split right down the middle." Denine doesn't say anything. "They could also not be as tight as it seems. We can try to get in there and claim to be united against Rocky," says Jennifer, "but then make sure they vent all our problems to us. We can drive that wedge between them until they trust us more than each other. That right there is the ballgame." "So how are you going to do that?" Denine asks. "Sounds like you've got it all figured out." "I need you with me one hundred percent," Jennifer replies. "We need to tell them we can throw Rocky under the bus. From there, we each pick a side and make sure there's a rivalry." "Whatever works," says Denine. "Are you even listening to me?" Jennifer asks, a little annoyed. "Good idea," says Denine. Jennifer slams the pointed end of her spear into the sand. "Hey, Denine, I'm trying to help us out here. The least you could do is listen to me and not just bob your head. I am not going to do all the work." "So why even bother asking for my input?" Denine asks. "Sounds like you already know what you want us to do." "Well, is there anything wrong with what I'm saying?" "Gee, I just don't know, Jennifer!" //"Gah! I don't know what you want from me, Jen!" Denine crosses her arms. "You have your own agenda, obviously. I'm not going to question what's best for her, but she shouldn't pretend it's OUR plan. It's hers, and I'll treat it as such."// After having left Denine to fish by herself, Jennifer gets a hold of Jackie on a narrow trail. "I think you should know," says Jennifer, "that you're good with me. I'm keeping watch on Denine and Rocky to make sure they're not coming for you." "Thanks," says Jackie. "I'll look out for you too. If you have my back, I have yours." "We're cool," says Jennifer. "I know I am," says Jackie. "You know. We should be an alliance. Because right now, I just get a bad feeling about the others. I need someone solid." "Same here, I just got separated from my rock," explains Jennifer. "I'm not going to just let myself be at the bottom." //"I gave Denine a fair shot to see if we could work something out," Jennifer explains, "but it's clear she's not interested. And I need a backup plan if the original Quibas people don't break. If you don't have your eye on the prize, then it will slip out of your fingers."// $c[**Chalpe**] Ashleia, Candace, and Jarrett are walking in the woods around camp, looking for dry brush. "There's no question, we have the others right where we want them," says Jarrett. "The old guard is voting Vaclav out with us. Buddy and Louie don't like each other, so as soon as Vaclav goes, we're breaking that truce. Let them at each other's throats." "So, we just pick off the other guys," says Candace. "That's the plan," Jarrett replies. "We have no reason to trust them." "And you're not just pulling our legs like last time?" Candace asks. "I have no reason to do anything like that," says Jarrett. "Saul was the outsider last time. This time it's Vaclav. That's the way we're voting." "Well if that's your final answer," says Candace, "then I'll take you at your word." //"So, Jarrett wants Vaclav out," says Candace. "That's fair. But if he says anything else after," she reaches into her pocket, "then I'm not listening." She pulls out a small bracelet made of wooden beads from her pocket. "Idols don't tell lies."// "Should we, like, talk to the guys to make sure this happens?" Ashleia asks. "Already done," says Jarrett. "Don't worry. It's not like he's going around helping matters, I only really see him with Louie." "You aren't worried that Louie might try to change things?" "If he does, then he's just giving us a fourth ally in Buddy." Jarrett looks Ashleia in the eyes. "We'll get out of this. I've got this, you know I wouldn't put you in any danger." //"Ashleia is my go-to, she's still solid with me," explains Jarrett. "I need to make sure she knows that. I would definitely go to bat for her if I heard her name come up, but right now the only name out there is the one I want to be out there. For everyone else, this is a test of whether I can trust them down the road, and that includes Candace."// $q[**Quibas**] Denine and Monty are sitting together. Monty is chewing on a blade of grass, while Denine uneasily twiddles her thumbs. "The nerve of people like Jennifer," says Denine. "She thinks she has me for granted because we spent more than a week together. That makes me see everything that's wrong with them, more than anything. And her problem is all she talks about is game. I'm not here for that." Monty nods. "You're right. It's why I don't get on with Jackie. Some people just think they're above everyone else. We're all human, and sometimes you have people like them who say it's not true, and that they're entitled to more than you just because that's the way they are." He spits into the dirt, and Denine recoils. "That's not why I'm here. I love the whole experience," Denine adds. "I'm not all about numbers, this isn't math class." //"I didn't think anyone here would see things the same way I do," says Monty. "I understand what Denise is talking about, just wanting to lay back a little. It's a once in a lifetime thing, so don't let the stress get you down."// "I just want to close my eyes and shut everything out," Denine admits. "Sometimes it's too much." "It's not good to hide yourself away from the world," says Monty. "I know..." Denine sighs. "I'm not trying to. But I'm overwhelmed. Everything's moving too fast for my liking." "Yeah, I get you. Sometimes these people are too uptight." Monty belches loudly. "Gross," Denine mutters. "What do you say about working with me and Paula?" Monty asks. "I'm all for that," says Denine. "We're cool." Monty smiles. //"Heck no, he's not a real ally," says Denine. "He's boorish, he's disgusting, he just didn't get what I was saying at all. I don't really care if this puts me back to square one. I have standards."// Paula is looking around in the bushes and trees, with Khall by her side. "Now, I know we've made up and everything," says Paula, "but what I'm doing right now is none of Jackie's business and none of Monty's business." "Understood," says Khall. "This is just for you, right?" "If you touch it first, I promise it's yours," Paula replies. //"I need to make sure the two sides of our little group are repaired, so I decided to do a little trust building with Khall," Paula explains. "He's sweet, and we get along. And I really don't mind if he finds the idol since I think he'd use it correctly."// "So," says Khall, "will it just be the four of us?" "I hope it doesn't come to that," says Paula. "I'm still thinking. We should maybe be able to get Jennifer or Denine to our side, then we have the majority." "What about Rocky?" Khall asks. "He's kind of a tool," Paula explains, "and I think he's at the top of the girls' lists. If for some reason Jackie decides to be an idiot, we're most likely to have the votes if we go against him." "I don't think Jackie would do something stupid," says Khall. "She's my friend." "That makes one of us." Paula reaches into a leafy bush and pulls out a rock. "I don't think it's impossible for her to think 'I'm going to make a big move' and backstab us. It would definitely put her on the bottom though. I'm tired of her attitude." "I'm tired of you guys not being friends," Khall replies. Paula comes out of the bush empty-handed. "That's too bad. She's made her bed. She's just really lucky that we need her right now." [[Day 14<-Read Day 14]]

**Day 14 Immunity Challenge** The two tribes arrive at the challenge beach to see fourteen poles arranged in two rows, each with a pair of rungs sticking out of the sides. Everyone is instructed to get onto a pole, with their feet on the rungs and their arms wrapped around the pole. If someone falls off their pole or touches the ground, they are out. First tribe to lose all of their members goes to tribal council. For each member remaining on the winning tribe, they receive three cups of beans. Within five minutes of starting, Vincent begins talking to the contestants. $v["Buddy, do you think you can do well at this challenge?"] "I think so," says Buddy. "This isn’t the first time I've been in this sort of situation." "Yeah but last time you didn't have any clothes on," says Rocky. Denine does a spit take, and in her laughing fit she loses her grip and falls backwards. $v["Well, I guess Denine is out."] "Thank god, now I don't have to be first out," says Louie. He jumps off. $v["Louie is down. Each tribe now has six. Jackie, how long do you think you can hold out?"] "All the way, I'm winning this challenge," Jackie replies. $v["Rhett, what's your strategy here?"] "I don't have one." $v["Alright, then I'll be back later to see how you are doing."] $t[//5 Minutes In//] Jackie gets an idea, and tries to talk to the other tribe. "Hey. Hey Vaclav." "You can't make any deals with me, you can't give me anything I want," Vaclav replies. "Throw the challenge." "No!" "He ain't gonna listen to you, sweetheart," says Monty. "I'm not gonna listen to you either, Monty!" Jackie snaps. $t[//10 Minutes In//] Candace is trembling on her pole. "This is so stupid..." she mutters to herself. "You can do it, Candace," says Jarrett. "Try meditating or something." "I feel my legs are going numb," Candace replies. "I can't zone out for more than ten seconds before the tingling sensation comes back." "It doesn't hurt, does it?" Jarrett asks. "No, not yet," says Candace. She closes her eyes. Rocky smirks. "You are getting veeeery sleepy..." he says gently. "Don't make me come over there," Jennifer snaps at him. All of a sudden, Ashleia loses her footing and falls off. $v["After ten minutes, Ashleia is down. Chalpe has five left."] "You can do it," Ashleia says to her team before heading over to where Denine and Louie are watching. $t[//15 Minutes In//] $v["We are fifteen minutes into the challenge, and eleven players are going strong."] "Not really," says Candace. "I don't know if I can keep going." "You're doing well so far," says Buddy. "No, I'm not!" Candace snaps. "I'm going to fall!" "Then hurry up!" Rocky yells. "Shut up, Rocky! I... crap!" Candace falls off her pole, somewhat sideways. $v["Candace is down! Quibas is advancing their lead."] "Oh god, I think I twisted something," Candace moans. "Are you okay! I'll help you!" Khall jumps off his pole and races over to check on Candace. "Are you kidding me! You don't even //know// her!" Jackie yells at Khall. Jackie's sudden yelling startled Monty enough to make him twitch. He lost his grip and slid down the pole, feet slipping off the rungs and hitting the ground. $v["Khall is down, and so is Monty! We are tied up again!"] $t[//25 Minutes In//] $v["It's almost been half an hour,"] says Vincent, $v["and we have four players remaining on each side. On Quibas we have Jackie, Jennifer, Paula, and Rocky. On Chalpe we have Buddy, Jarrett, Rhett, and Vaclav."] Rocky is knocking his knees gently against the side of his pole. "Getting a little antsy?" Buddy asks. "Why don't you try and stretch for a bit?" "Very funny," says Rocky. "I'm not dropping." "You look bored standing up here," Buddy adds. "Well, you look dumb!" Rocky snaps. "Is that the best you've got?" Rocky narrows his eyes and tightens his grip on the pole. $t[//30 Minutes In//] $v["It's been thirty minutes, and time for the next half of the challenge. You have ten seconds to wrap your legs around the pole. After that ten seconds, putting either foot back on the rungs means you're out. The countdown starts now."] "Oh damn," says Denine. Most of the remaining players begin to lift their legs, but Jackie has completely lost feeling in hers and falls backwards. Everyone else struggles to get into position, but soon the grace period is over. $v["Jackie has fallen so she's out, and... Rhett still has one foot on the rungs. He's out."] "That wasn't ten seconds!" Rhett complains. $v["Yes, yes it was."] Rhett mutters a swear while stepping down. $t[//In the end...//] After 40 minutes, Paula falls off her pole. Five minutes pass until Jarrett steps down, and Buddy falls not long after him. An hour after the beginning of the challenge, only Jennifer and Rocky remain for Quibas, and Vaclav for Chalpe. $v["All three of you have been up there for sixty minutes."] "Hell yeah!" Rocky shouts. $v["Can you do it for ninety minutes?"] "Hell yeah!" Rocky shouts again. After eighty minutes, one more contestant falls off. $v["And Jennifer is down! We have one contestant left on each tribe, let's see how far they can last."] Rocky gasps. "No, we don't! Look at his shoes!" Vincent looks over to Vaclav's pole, and notices Vaclav's foot had slipped down and hit a rung. Vaclav looks down and realizes he had made a big mistake. "Oh no... I'm so sorry, guys." $v["Vaclav is disqualified, which means Rocky is the last one standing! Quibas wins immunity and three cups of beans!"] The new Chalpe is told to pick someone from Quibas to kidnap, and Louie picks Denine. $c[**Chalpe**] //"I really thought we had it there," says Rhett. "We were doing so well. But somehow Rocky won, and his smug little grin means he's never going to let any of us forget this. One of us is going home, and it's all his fault."// Rhett is standing in a group with Jarrett, Candace, Buddy, and Ashleia. "We have five votes here," says Jarrett. "Buddy, Rhett, we can trust the two of you, right? Because I don't know what to think of Louie right now." "Forget Louie," says Buddy. "He was garbage today." "Does that change our plans at all?" Candace asks. Jarrett shakes his head. "The plan still is Vaclav. Anyone can stand still, doesn't really show much for strength. And once they get Rocky out that disadvantage doesn't mean anything." "Once they get Rocky out? What if they don't?" Buddy asks. "I think they will," says Ashleia. "He was, like, really lucky. But now he has no allies over there." "Right, and Vaclav has none here," says Jarrett. "Louie's the one who got to kidnap someone, so she's probably protecting Louie instead." //"We should have a stable group here, but I don't want to split the votes," Jarrett explains. "There aren't enough of us for me to be comfortable doing that."// "So, do we go and tell Louie he's safe?" Rhett asks. "Might help, but that might give him the impression that he's on the outs," says Jarrett. "He IS on the outs," Buddy snaps. "If anything, we're doing him a favour by not taking him out right now." "It's not going to happen with Denine here," says Jarrett. Meanwhile, Vaclav is sitting in the shelter with Denine and Louie. "I'm beside myself right now," says Vaclav. "They want me out, I know it! After I gave it my all today, it's worth nothing and they want me out. They all did, from the beginning!" Denine glances at Louie. "Is he always this... pathetic?" "I don't want to go home like this! I haven't even done anything!" //"I'm not paranoid, I know what they're all thinking! They don't want me on their tribe, and that's been the case since I got there," says Vaclav. "I'm just screwed because they just want an easy target. It sucks! I don't deserve to go home!"// "You gotta help me out tonight!" Vaclav asks. "Please! There has to be something you can do." "If it involves interacting with people, forget it," says Louie. Vaclav sighs, but harshly and shallowly because of how stressed he is. "You don't even have to do that! Just watch them like I've been doing! Do you see who's talking with whom? I know who the biggest threat here is, but because I'm the target they won't do anything about it!" "Now you have my attention," says Denine. "You want us to help you kick the tribe in the nards?" "The what!?" //"It all comes down to tribal councils," says Louie. "It may look like I don't really give a shit, but that's because I put my energy where it matters, at the voting booth. And if Vaclav leaving puts me at risk then I'll make sure they know I'm not having it."// A little later, Buddy is talking to Rhett when they run into Vaclav. "Hey Vaclav, I have a pitch for you," says Buddy. "So, the Ochora people are morons and want to vote you out." "It's obvious, isn't it?" says Vaclav. "Well I'm not up for that." Buddy crosses his arms. "We're voting someone else." "Please tell me you're voting Jarrett," says Vaclav. "What? Of course not," says Buddy. "I'm putting Louie down. We have Ashleia, we just need you to tie it up." "Ummmm, okay," says Vaclav, nodding. "I just don't want to leave." "You shouldn't," says Buddy. "We're going to trim the fat." //"Louie's kidnapping of Denine was totally expected, but ultimately useless," says Buddy. "I hope they enjoy the next few hours of being miserable jerkoffs, because one of them won't be here tomorrow. He refused to bury the hatchet, so I'll bury HIM instead."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The new Chalpe tribe, and old Chalpe member Denine, walk into the tribal council building. They place their lit torches behind their seats. $v["Welcome back. Let's start with Rhett. What was it like to learn that not only was one tribe broken up, but all of you were shuffled around to different camps?"] "It's been tough," says Rhett. "I felt like I was doing okay on this tribe before, and now there's more people to worry about and I don't feel as safe anymore." $v["Buddy, you were being targeted heavily last time, do you think this swap came at a good time?"] "I think it did, but it could have worked out better," says Buddy. "The three that came here from Ochora are fairly close." "But we're willing to work with you," says Jarrett. "You're benefitting from this." "For now," says Vaclav. $v["Vaclav, you have an opinion on this?"] "Yes, I really do," Vaclav says. "Jarrett's alliance wants me out. I could tell it from the very beginning, they saw me as someone that wouldn't put up a fight. Well they're dead wrong! I'm not going to give up!" "We didn't even say anything about you," says Jarrett. "If you want to know why you're on the chopping block, it's because you're volatile." "I'm sorry for not being your little lap dog! I didn't //ask// to be in this position!" Vaclav exclaims. $v["What position are you talking about?"] "I'm the only one from my old tribe here," says Vaclav. "So, when I came here, there was three and three! With the kidnapping they don't need a fourth as a swing vote, so that makes me expendable! You all know it! And if I didn't say anything at all I would be as good as gone." "You're just making it worse for yourself, actually," says Jarrett. "Okay both of you shut up," says Candace. "I'm getting a migraine." $v["Louie, what does Vaclav being targeted mean for you?"] "It means I'm on a tribe full of dumbasses," says Louie, "who think that they've got the game all lined up. Guess what, not all of you can win." "The hell does that mean?" Buddy asks, crossing his arms. "Actually, no, don't say anything." "You'd like that," says Denine, "wouldn't you?" "Vincent, I'm not interested in playing their little high school games," Louie explains. "Jarrett and his new clique might think they're all that and a bag of chips, but there's only so long that can take you." Ashleia leans over to Jarrett. "This kind of negativity is why we're voting him out," she whispers. "Oh, I don't think so," whispers Jarrett. "Louie's a goat." "Your other goat won the challenge today," Ashleia replies. "Got something to share with the class?" Denine asks, turning to look at Ashleia. "I'm, like, just saying that I'm voting for Louie tonight," says Ashleia. "Well I'm, like, just saying, like," Denine replies mockingly, "good luck with that." "We'll see about that," says Buddy. $v["I think this is as good a time as ever to start the voting,"] says Vincent. $v["Buddy, you are up first."] As Buddy stands up and walks to the voting booth, Jarrett looks over at Vaclav. "You just dodged a serious bullet, you know." "Don't have to tell me twice," Vaclav replies. ... Jarrett reveals his vote for **Louie**. "You're so delusional that it's almost endearing. But then I remember how useless you are." Louie reveals his vote for **Jarrett**. "Well played, dumbass. Your days are numbered." ... $votesarein $v["Louie."] Louie pretends to gasp in horror. $v["Jarrett."] Jarrett rolls his eyes. $v["Louie. He leads with two."] Ashleia bows her head down, but looks up at the votes being shown. $v["Jarrett. We are tied."] "This is getting exciting," says Denine. "Easy for you to say," Louie snaps. $v["Next vote... Jarrett."] Vaclav adjusts his glasses. $v["Louie. We are tied with three votes each."] Candace takes a deep breath and brushes the hair out of her face. "You good?" Buddy asks. Candace nods quietly. $v["The next vote..."] $v["...is for Jarrett."] "What's going ooooon?" Ashleia mutters. Louie smirks. $v["Fifth $boot is **Jarrett**. You need to bring me your torch."] "I appreciate it," says Jarrett sarcastically, as he gets up and walks towards his torch. Vaclav sighs, and clutches his chest. Denine and Louie high five. Jarrett puts his torch down in front of Vincent, looking peeved. $v["Jarrett, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent extinguishes the basketball player's torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] "It's been real," says Jarrett. "Maybe too real. Go choke, Louie." "Get over yourself," Louie snaps, as Jarrett walks out of tribal. $v["It's not smart to take everything you see at face value,"] says Vincent. $v["Jarrett saw a stable alliance and an easy vote, and he got a knife in the back. Let his game be a reminder that Survivor guarantees nothing and waits for no one. You can head back to camp."] $c[//"I was taking out the threats for them, and this is how they repay me?" Jarrett grimaces. "Excuse me for having the balls to do what they couldn't. What's even worse than that is that I was betrayed when I decided to throw them a bone. I gave them an underhand pitch, and they beaned me in the head with the bat. Unbelievable."//] Voting Results: ''Jarrett - Candace, $q[Denine], Louie, Rhett, Vaclav'' Louie - Ashleia, Buddy, Jarrett [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

(set: $selected to 0) **Author's Note:** This episode contains scenes that are directly related to the previous seasons (//`Survivor:` Muskoka Hills// and //Survivor: Shuffle Island//). Before reading the episode, click one of the options below. |options>[(display: "Show Selection")]

$t[**Day 15 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[six](replace: "votedpeople")[Chalpe plus Denine] "Thank you so much, all of you," says Vaclav. "I was worried sick tonight, but I'll prove to you that this was the right decision." "It just made sense," Candace replies. "It was just a gut feeling that voting him out was the right thing to do." Ashleia's eyebrows raise in shock, and she looks over at Candace. "When did you think that?" "In the middle of one of his speeches," says Candace with a yawn. "He kept going on about how Vaclav was 'volatile', but did he ever stick by anything when we were on Ochora?" "Well, he-" Ashleia begins. "He changed his mind on everything!" Candace continues. "He spared Rocky twice after saying he was dead meat, and he even flipped to Louie after everything he said. He could NOT be trusted." //"I don't care if we had the numbers," says Candace. "I could not stand to have Jarrett here any longer. Maybe he was willing to work with me, but you know what? I can't forgive him."// "He thought he could get away with it because he was an athletic alpha male," Rhett adds, punching his right palm with his left hand. "That's why he had to go! If we didn't take action tonight, he might have ended up with two idols or something." "He was a provider," says Buddy. "We just lost some muscle." "Oh, now you care about who's helpful," says Denine. "I always did," Buddy snaps. "And I still help out and pick up for everything Louie conveniently naps through! You don't even go here, Denine." "Cut it out," shouts Rhett. "You're not even on the same tribe anymore, can you stop your arguing already? It's been a long night, some of us don't want to end it on a sour note, and you're doing a great job of making that happen!" "Sorry," says Buddy. "He said shut it," says Louie. "Louie!" Rhett yells. "You especially! Denine won't be here in the morning, but Buddy will, so suck it up and stop trying to get in the last word!" //"These people are insane," says Rhett. "I just don't understand with them. I'm trying to play an intellectual game, but every time I turn around it's like we're in a sitcom. I'm glad we voted out the producer favourite athlete hustler, but I wish it didn't mean listening to more of, well, that!"// $q[**Quibas**] In the morning, dark clouds drift into the sky directly above camp, and the ground below becomes steadily darker. Some of the tribe, sitting in the shelter, notices this. "Think there's finally going to be some inclement weather?" Jennifer asks. "Might just be," says Monty. "Could be a storm coming on." "It would be perfect fishing weather," Jennifer replies. "Well, good for the fish, anyways." "Then who's going to do the honours?" Paula asks. "I think it should be Rocky," says Monty. "He's looking for something to prove, ain't he?" "That and if we can keep him away," says Jennifer, "then we won't all be smelling wet skunk right away." Paula grimaces. "Thanks for the mental image," she says sarcastically. //"This Rocky kid, I don't think he's all bad," says Monty. "He ain't lazy. He definitely could have turned out better if he got the belt every now and then, smarten him up a little."// "You know, we have the numbers to get rid of him if we want," says Jennifer. "Jackie, Khall, the three of us. That's more than enough. And Denine despises Rocky, so we can even split it if we want to." "I think we oughta keep it simple," Monty replies. "The others won't be torn up to see Rocky gone. That's the way it'll be." "What if he has an idol?" Paula asks. "Or some other advantage?" "If we keep Denine voting against Rocky we only need two votes against her," Jennifer explains. "That would be five votes against Rocky, so he idols out Denine or he's a goner." //"We can't tie ourselves to the tribes we had before the swap," says Jennifer. "Especially if Denine isn't thrilled about working with me, I'm not thrilled about giving her a second chance. Maybe if she didn't brush me off then I wouldn't be making her the decoy, but she did this to herself."// Rocky comes into the shelter, and shortly afterwards they hear a low, thunderous rumble. "The fish are going to be really happy about the rain," says Jennifer. "Can you go and see if you can catch some before lightning strikes?" "Why don't you do it?" Rocky replies. "They'll be even more attracted to your fish breath." "That's no way to treat a lady, Rocky," Monty interjects. "'Lady'? Oh, come on now!" Rocky folds his arms. "That would mean I have some sort of respect for her. You'd at least be entertaining if you took that stick out of your ass, Jen." "You'd at least be more than a free boot if you pretended to be a good person," says Jennifer. "Your standard of 'good' is a bad standard," Rocky counters. "Trust me, I don't need to suck up to you to win." "Basic human decency is sucking up, now?" Jennifer laughs. "Idiot." "I think I've made my point," says Rocky. He gets up and heads out of the shelter. "It's like he don't even realize what he's doing to himself," says Monty. "Sometimes you have to let someone shoot themselves in the foot," Paula replies. //"Jennifer thinks she's so much better than the rest of us," says Rocky, "and I don't know why because I don't care about her. What I do know is that she's going to be one of many who finds out why you don't mess with the Rockster."// $c[**Chalpe**] Ashleia is sitting with Buddy in the shelter. "I just, like, I just don't get it," says Ashleia. "I thought the problem she had was with Jarrett's plans, not Jarrett himself. I wish I could have talked to her about it, you know?" "We did talk to her, and she stabbed us in the back," Buddy replies. "We'll probably end up losing again, then everyone will have to reconsider." "You still want Louie out more than anything?" Ashleia asks. "Of course. He's worthless." //"I'm not going to switch targets for the sake of it," says Buddy. "I'm sick of Louie wasting valuable space, and I want him out. If I have to, I'll vote differently, but I have no reason to flip yet."// Meanwhile, Louie is lounging around on the dirt while Candace and Rhett talk next to him. "I just could not take his arrogance any longer," says Candace. "I need to feel respected, and from him I didn't get that." "Jarrett was a tool," says Louie. "And now he's gone. That's all that matters." "He got off easy," Candace snaps. "I don't let people try and toy with me like that." "We all felt that way," says Rhett. "Now we need to pick ourselves up and go forward." "Rhett's right," Louie adds, "and there's nowhere for the weak links to hide." //"I wouldn't go as far as to call Louie an asset," says Candace. "He's a crotchety old man... manlike creature. Give him an inch, he takes a mile, that sort of thing." She looks to the side, and scoffs.// "So who's next? Between Buddy, Ashleia, Vaclav, who can we lose?" Louie asks. "I thought Vaclav was on your side," says Rhett. "Whatever." Louie pulls his visor down slightly. "He was desperate so I told him what he wanted to hear. Does that mean we're best friends now? No, of course not." "No wonder you and Denine are so close," says Rhett. "You're cut from the same cloth." "The total dick cloth," Candace adds. "I didn't ask for a psychoanalysis," Louie snaps. "Do you want my vote or do you want to be the attitude police?" //"Ask me who I want eliminated, and I'll tell you everyone," says Louie, matter-of-factly. "In whatever order gets me to the end with some clown I can win against. They may not like me, but I'm not the worst, and to keep me in that's all I really need."// Meanwhile, a drizzle of rain begins coming down on the Chalpe camp. Slowly but surely it builds up to a heavier rain, until the rain is so intense that it's loud enough to make conversations difficult. Vaclav is walking by himself, a little ways away from camp. He's wearing a grey coat that he's left undone, but when the rain begins falling he pulls it tighter around him. A rodent of some kind darts out in front of him, crossing his path. Startled, Vaclav stumbles, before falling sideways into a bush of some kind. //"It would have been embarrassing if anyone saw me take that spill," says Vaclav, raising his voice to be heard over the rain. "It's hard to see anything right now."// While struggling to get up, his hand knocks against a package lying in the bush. Upon feeling it, he leans in closer, using his body to shield it from the downpour. He quickly recognizes the distinct circular shape, rips the paper packaging off, and reads the note attached. "//Congratulations, you have found the Chalpe Tribe's hidden immunity idol,// "he reads. "//This can be played at any tribal council before the votes are read, up until day 36. It will nullify all votes cast against a player of your choosing.// Oh my god. This is just what I needed right now." He crumples the note in his hand and tucks it into his coat pocket. The other item in the packaging, a bracelet made with wooden beads held together with a light pink string, is slid onto his wrist, then tucked underneath his shirt sleeve. "I've got to be subtle," he says to himself. He gets up from the bush and continues walking towards Town Square. //"I survived another day," says Vaclav. "I thought I was dead in the water, but something came through for me. Now I need to make sure that I can still have friends on both sides, just so that never ever ever happens again."// $t[**Town Square**] Vaclav is standing underneath a large leaf that he's using as a makeshift shelter. He wipes some rainwater off his glasses when he sees Paula and Monty approach from the Quibas camp. "Hey, you made it," says Monty. "And I was in the majority, too," says Vaclav. "So, things could be worse." "No, we meant if you would be able to sneak away from your tribe," says Paula. Vaclav nods. "In this weather. They might just think I got lost or something. I guess we should make this quick." "Alright. So, the four of us are still together," explains Paula. "Jennifer and Denine don't like each other, and they both hate Rocky. I'm sure you've heard about those three." Vaclav nods. "Denine saved me, and she likes Louie who likes me, so can you keep her around?" "Yep, we're voting out Rocky," says Monty. "He got no respect for no one." "I'm actually thinking we should put a few votes on Denine as a backup," Paula confesses. Monty shakes his head. "We don't need to make things too hard. Let's stick to the plan, y'hear? Rocky has gotta go." "You think Rocky got an idol?" Vaclav asks. "Because if he doesn't, that's a stupid risk." "We have five solid people," says Paula. "Keeping Jennifer is a no-brainer, and if something happens to you the four of us have to be stick together. If we lose, and kidnap you, we need you voting Rocky out." //"That first vote I really hated because of how little I knew about anyone," says Paula. "But now I'm getting a feel for everyone on my new tribe, and I can put the pieces together of what I want to do."// "Just make sure he's the one who goes if it's a tie," says Vaclav. "I can help you get Denine on our side." "You got it," says Paula. She smiles. "I gotta get back before anyone realizes we went off together." She turns and runs towards her own tribe's camp. "We'll keep Denine safe if we can," Monty adds, "if you can look out for Buddy, too." "Buddy?" Vaclav adjusts his glasses. "I don't know why him, but I guess I'll try." Monty nods. "Keep it together, Vaz." He turns around and walks in the same direction as Paula. [[Day 16<-Read Day 16]]

{(if: $selected is 1)[ //Selected:// I have read Survivor: Muskoka Hills and Survivor: Shuffle Island. ] (else:)[ (link: "I have read Survivor: Muskoka Hills and Survivor: Shuffle Island.")[ (set: $selected to 1) (replace: ?options)[(display: "Show Selection")] ] ] (if: $selected is 2)[ //Selected:// I have not read one or both of these seasons, and would not understand direct references to them. ] (else:)[ (link: "I have not read one or both of these seasons, and would not understand direct references to them.")[ (set: $selected to 2) (replace: ?options)[(display: "Show Selection")] ] ] (if: $selected is not 0)[[[Day 15<-Read Day 15]]] }

**Day 17 Immunity Challenge** (if: $selected is 1)[Before the challenge begins, Vincent explains to Chalpe that the incident at camp yesterday ended up destroying the chaotic energy force inside Percival, who no longer has any memory of this series. It turns out his body was hijacked over a century ago, and the real Percival thinks television is black magic so we're not going to be seeing him again. ]Each tribe has an identical course. One after the other, contestants must climb through a tunnel made out of rope nets. They then immediately can start digging in a sand pit for a black ball; they do not have to wait for their tribemates to get through. The black balls, when found, are passed to a thrower, who needs to throw all five black balls into their tribe's baskets. First tribe to sink a ball into all five of their tribe's baskets wins immunity. Order of climbing: $c[Buddy, Vaclav, Candace, Rhett, Ashleia] $q[Rocky, Jennifer, Paula, Khall, Jackie] Throwers: $c[Louie], $q[Denine] Sitting out: $q[Monty] The challenge begins smoothly, with everyone getting through the rope net tunnel in turn. Rocky finds a black ball first, then Buddy, then Paula. Louie sinks his first basket before Denine but is left waiting for the other diggers. Denine sinks a basket, then gets a ball from Jennifer. Louie gets a ball from Rhett, but he is having more difficulty this time. Denine sinks another ball in, then gets a ball from Jackie, leaving Khall as the last digger. Louie then receives balls from Vaclav and Candace before either thrower sinks another basket. Denine gets a third basket in, then Louie gets his second. Ashleia hands over the last ball to Louie, who then scores his third. Denine gets a fourth point and is forced to wait for Khall to find the last black ball. Louie repeatedly misses the far two baskets. Khall finally finds the last ball and hands it over to Denine. Louie then scores the fourth and fifth baskets in quick succession. $c[Chalpe wins immunity!] $q[Quibas loses, and will be going to tribal council.] Vincent instructs Quibas to kidnap someone from the opposing tribe, and they agree on Rhett. $q[**Quibas**] //"It's not good to lose after being ahead for so long," says Monty. "But we have a plan – vote Rocky out." He spits at the ground. "That's all there is to it."// The entire Quibas tribe, except with Rhett instead of Rocky, have a short meeting in front of the shelter. "We all know the plan, right?" says Monty. "We just vote Rocky out." Jackie casts an annoyed glance to Paula. Denine folds her arms. "I'd really like to believe you, Monty. But I can't." Rhett looks over at her. "Denine, it's what we've been telling ourselves since we made the mistake of kidnapping him. You can't back out now." "I'm not going to back out," Denine replies, pointing at the rest of her tribe. "But the rest of you, I'm not so sure about." "Can we not start something right now?" says Jennifer. "There isn't anything to discuss." "Not while I'm here," Denine snaps. "I'm going to walk away, and you all are going to say, 'never mind, we're splitting the votes'!" "What the hell gave you that idea?" asks Jackie. "Rocky did," says Denine. "He said that once he goes, I'm next, and I'm not going to let that happen." "You can't blame us for your own poor social game," says Paula. //"Denine has given me plenty of reason to not feel pity for her right now," Paula explains. "I don't want to work with someone who throws a fit after losing the challenge, not while I have better options. At this point I might not be opposed to just blindsiding her and dealing with Rocky later."// "Poor social game? Are you kidding?" Denine throws her arms up in the air. "You don't even know what you're talking about! But fine, keep pretending you're all best friends, that will get you far when you see how many seats there are on day 39. Here's a hint, it's less than six!" "You don't need to get so hysterical," says Monty. "We're not voting you. We're voting Rocky. Got it?" "Yeah, okay," says Denine, "and then we're all going out for ice cream!" "Stop it," says Khall. "I know you're upset, but don't get our hopes up." Rhett looks Denine in the eyes. "Denine... please, I think you need to take a minute and breathe." Denine stops. "Okay... yeah... this isn't worth fighting." She turns around but stops and looks back at the group. "I've heard enough. But if any one of you want to take this game seriously, you know who's ready to make a move." With a heavy sigh, Denine walks off. //"I could see through them like binoculars," says Denine. "It's not like they could suggest anyone BUT Rocky when he's not there. I'm not letting myself get tunnel vision on that smug little shitbird like the rest of them. I just need to wait for one of them to wake up to the garbage being put out."// "Oh no, she got us, what are we ever going to do?" Jennifer rolls her eyes. "Alright, how do we split it between them?" Rhett's eyes widen. "Are you for real? I am not okay with this." "Fine, that's two votes for Rocky," says Paula. "You and Monty. I'll vote Denine. Jackie, Khall, Jennifer, any preferences?" "I have a preference," says Rhett, "we vote Rocky out! Lord knows he deserves it!" "I don't think anyone really deserves it," says Monty. //"I don't believe it!" Rhett grumbles. "We have a perfect shot to get him out. He probably thinks we're playing it up to backstab someone else, and then bam, double blindside! Worst case, we flush out an idol and take him out later. There are only so many secret advantages one player can have! So why the cowardice from this tribe as well?!"// A little later, Jackie goes off by herself and meets up with Rocky again. "You should be good tonight," says Jackie. "Denine's getting the boot tonight." "Yeah, about that, I changed my mind," says Rocky. "What do you mean changed your mind?" "I mean what I said," Rocky replies. The pair is quickly joined by Denine. "Trying to rub your brain cells together to start a fire?" she asks. "Boy, was that a contrived and unfunny remark," says Rocky. "Look, Denine," says Jackie. "I'm actually thinking of doing something. I am NOT a follower. I want to throw them off their game in the same way they did to me." "Oh, that's great," says Denine. "Well, in that case, I want you to vote-" "Stop," says Jackie. "I'm the one in charge here. If you get it wrong, then I'm not flipping and one of you two is out. Understand?" //"And suddenly I'm the one who controls who leaves tonight," Jackie explains. "It's fantastic. Either Denine guesses who I'm thinking of, or I screw her and Rocky over. I'll tell Denine she picked correctly, so whichever way I flip will completely blindside the others. Sure, they may catch me, but not before it's too late and I've gotten the result that I want."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The Quibas tribe and Rhett walk into the tribal council building and place their torches behind the seats before sitting down. Vincent clasps his hands together and looks over the losing tribe. $v["Immunity was down to the wire for you guys. Denine, as the thrower, do you feel responsible, that you failed to clinch the win for the tribe?"] Denine shakes her head. "Oh, no way. I did my best, and despite what some people might try to say, I was giving it my all. I was just forced to wait for everyone else." $v["Paula, no matter who's at fault, all of you are here and one of you is getting voted out. You have four people here from your old tribe out of seven voters, but you kidnapped Rhett."] "We did, he was something of a compromise pick," says Paula. "We wanted to tell the new people on our tribe, 'hey, you're welcome here, we aren't going to just pick you off one by one'. The best we can do together is tie it up, so the ball's really in their court." $v["Rocky, are you getting that impression from your new tribe?"] "You'd have to be a special kind of stupid to fall for that," says Rocky. "The so-called compromise pick is a lunatic who hates my guts. It's clear they're trying to kick me to the curb, just like Ochora said they would, but didn't." "This time you've done nothing to convince any of us to pull you out of that mess," says Jennifer. "I'm not looking for your pity, Jennifer," Rocky snaps. "If I go home because you're too weak to stand me, that's not going to break my heart. But just because I'm not kissing your ass doesn't mean I'm giving up." $v["Monty, it sounds like the tribe has rallied together against a common enemy."] "And it's Rocky," says Monty. "It ain't Jackie, or Denine, or Jennifer, or Khall. The tribe, we came up with a plan, and we're gonna stick to it." Jackie rolls her eyes, and shakes her head slightly. Jennifer leans to one side and whispers something to Paula, who listens intently. "Got something to share with the class?" Denine asks, folding her arms. "Of course not, they're cowards," says Rocky. "Cowardly would be not taking a stand," says Rhett, while Paula is whispering back to Jennifer, "and taking a stand is what we're doing." Jennifer then whispers something to Rhett. Paula gets out of her seat and whispers something to Jackie. "Um, what in the fresh hell is this?" Rocky snaps. "Is this allowed?" "Hell yeah it is," says Jennifer. $v["Khall, what do you make of this? You're seeing first-hand, the game never stops, and a round isn't over until the torch goes out."] "It's kind of confusing," Khall replies. "Most of the time you have a plan going in, but if you're not talking to everyone else, and things change without you knowing, all you have is old information and a gut feeling." Paula nudges Khall with her elbow, and whispers something to him. Jennifer and Jackie have a short and quiet exchange, and Rhett whispers something to Monty. "They just can't make it any more obvious what's actually going on," says Denine. "They're nervous as hell. They want an out. They don't give a damn what I think, I'm just next in the pecking order." "Now, that ain't true," says Monty. "We're all voting the same. We all agreed on Rocky." Rocky smirks. Jackie whispers something to Denine, Rhett whispers to Paula, and Khall whispers something to Jennifer. Jennifer immediately turns to face Khall. "Khall, cut it out. You can't just say 'secret' in my ear over and over." "I just wanted to feel included," says Khall. "You //are// included, you're part of the plan," says Paula. After a few more hushed exchanges between everyone except Denine, Rocky, and Monty, the tribe settles back down into their seats. "I think we're ready," says Jennifer. $v["Alright, with that in mind, Rhett. Do you want to give up your immunity?"] "I would never do that," says Rhett. $v["Okay, then it's time to vote. Jennifer, you're up first."] Khall leans over to Jackie. "Wait, are we voting together, or no?" Jackie brings her hand to her face. "Oh. My. God." ... Monty reveals his vote for **Rocky**. "Just part of the plan. You shoulda been kinder." Paula reveals her vote for **Denine**. "It's nothing personal, so stop acting like we're out to get you." ... $votesarein $v["First vote is for Rocky."] Rocky tilts his head down, and glares over the rims of his shades. $v["Denine. One vote Rocky, one vote Denine."] "See what I mean?" says Denine, irritated. "That wasn't even us, that was Rocky," says Paula. $v["Third vote... Denine."] "So Rocky voted twice?" Denine says. "Amazing!" $v["Rocky."] Rhett glances back and forth between the members of the opposing tribe. $v["Next vote... Monty. One vote Monty, two votes Denine, two votes Rocky."] "Seriously, Jackie?" Paula glares at Jackie. "Now is not the time to- oh wait, that's not even your handwriting." "You thought I was going to just play into your hands?" Denine snaps. "That's a shame." $v["Monty. We are tied. Two votes left."] Monty shakes his head in disappointment. $v["Seventh vote... is for Monty."] "Now //that// is my handwriting," says Jackie. Jennifer's head whips around to look Jackie directly in the eyes. "What the fuck?" Khall's eyes widen. "Uh oh." $v["Final vote, and the sixth $boot is **Monty**. You need to bring me your torch."] "Well, I did my best." Monty gets up. "Jackie," he pauses to spit, "karma's a not very nice lady." "Get outta here, Gramps," says Rocky. Monty places his torch in front of Vincent, while Paula gives Jackie a death glare behind his back. $v["Monty, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent snuffs the older man's torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] "We'll get her back," says Rhett. "Take care, sir." "Same to you," says Monty. "And be kind to each other." He walks out of the tribal council building. Rocky opens his mouth, but Paula cuts him off. "I think you've said enough tonight, Rocky." $v["Everyone has their own idea of who they can trust and who they can lose, and that's what makes alliances,"] says Vincent, $v["but there's always more than one person who would benefit from switching things up. You can head back to camp."] $q[//"I had a good time out here," says Monty. "When it comes to regrets, I don't have none. My friends I made here want to play the game, so I wish them luck."//] Voting Results: ''Monty - Denine, Jackie, Khall, Rocky'' Rocky - Monty, $c[Rhett] Denine - Jennifer, Paula [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

**Day 16 Reward Challenge** The two tribes arrive at the challenge beach in the pouring rain, but Vincent says the show must go on, so they will be competing in the rain. On the far end of a pool of water about 20 meters long is a pair of two platforms. Contestants must climb a ladder, and smash a tile hanging in front of them with a wooden baton to release a key. They must then swim back with the key and tag in the next person. There are five keys per tribe. Once all keys are returned, the final player must use all five keys to open a locked chest and use the letter tiles inside to spell out a phrase. First tribe to spell out the phrase wins two egg-laying chickens and a rooster. Word Unscramblers: $c[Rhett], $q[Khall] Sitting out: $q[Paula] Both teams send out strong swimmers first: Louie for Chalpe and Jennifer for Quibas. Louie is much faster than Jennifer but struggles with getting onto the ladder. When Jennifer reaches the ladder, she passes him easily. Both Jennifer and Louie smash their tiles, but Jennifer makes it back with a key long before Louie does. Monty is tagged in and is halfway to the platform when Louie tags in Candace. Monty misses on his first attempt and has to go back up the ladder. Candace climbs up and smashes her tile. Monty smashes his tile the second time, but Candace has already made it back with her key. Candace tags in Vaclav. Monty makes it back with the second key when Vaclav smashes the third tile. Rocky dives in for Quibas and reaches the ladder just after Vaclav gets back to the other end of the pool. Ashleia jumps in but is not fast enough to catch in Rocky. Rocky smashes a tile and brings back a key before Ashleia is finished climbing the ladder. While Rocky is tagging in Denine, Ashleia jumps and smashes the fourth tile for Chalpe. Denine makes it to the ladder, and she is climbing when Ashleia tags in Buddy. Denine smashes the fourth tile for Quibas while Buddy is halfway to the ladder, and she has returned with her key when Buddy reaches the top of the ladder. Jackie is the last player to jump into the pool. Buddy smashes his tile, but when he jumps in, the splash sends the key floating to his side. Buddy's scrambling to find the key floating nearby gives Jackie a chance to help close the gap. When Buddy finds his key and grabs it, Jackie is climbing the ladder. She jumps and smashes her tile just before Buddy makes it back. Buddy puts down the last key, and Rhett runs all five keys to Chalpe's locked chest. He sees three locks on both chests, meaning two keys don't work in any lock. Jackie returns with her tribe's last key while Rhett is trying to open the first lock. He is trying one key at a time on the locks. Khall gets to work on his chest, sticking one key in the first lock right as Rhett opens the first lock. Khall tries to put each key in all three locks before putting it down. Khall's strategy helps him make up a bit of time. When Rhett has opened the final lock, he is working on the locks with his third key. Rhett opens his chest and takes out 20 letter tiles. //S T O A R O U Y E T R O L O T E U H D Y// Khall opens his chest shortly afterwards, finding the same 20 tiles. The puzzle solvers work for a few minutes, trying to figure out what they can spell in the word lengths provided. Eventually, one puzzle solver speaks up and calls Vincent over. **STORY THE LORE UOU TODAY** $v["Khall thinks he has it... and he's dead wrong!"] "What!?" Jackie cries out. Rhett then calls Vincent over and shows what he thinks the answer is. **TODAY YOU RULE THE ROOST** $c[Chalpe wins reward!] $q[Quibas loses, and returns to camp with nothing.] $c[**Chalpe**] The Chalpe tribe arrives back at camp, and they see a huge cage with three chickens inside on the ground near their shelter. Vaclav notices a piece of paper taped to the back of the cage, and swiftly removes it and puts it in his pocket while everyone else looks at the birds. "I'm really glad we won this one," says Rhett, placing his hand on top of the cage. "Lots of protein. We're going to need it." "How do we know which one's the rooster?" Ashleia asks. "That one won't lay eggs." "It's the one that doesn't look like the other two," Louie replies. "It looks like the rain will come back soon," says Buddy. It had stopped shortly after the challenge was over. "Might not be wise to try and get the fire going." //"We finally won a challenge, and I'm ready to celebrate," says Candace. Her expression changes to show her irritation. "But no, the rain is back, so we can't get a fire going to cook the damn chicken. Do you know how much I want some chicken? I can't live off plants, I'm not a vegan!"// "Let's bring the cage into the shelter," says Vaclav. "We can't let them get wet." "They're birds, they'll be fine," says Louie. "They're chickens, not ducks," Vaclav replies. "If we're going to cook them, why should they suffer in the cold first?" "Ducks should suffer in the cold?" Ashleia looks confused. Buddy picks up the chicken cage and hauls it into the shelter by himself. "Now there are going to be feathers everywhere," Louie groans. "There's already fur that's been shed everywhere," Candace snaps. "It shouldn't be a surprise where that came from. We'll live, Louie." "You sound upset," says Vaclav. "Hell yeah I'm upset," says Candace. "I just want some chicken!" //"Candace is my friend," says Ashleia. "She's been with me for a while, and I trust her to at least mean the right thing. So seeing her frustrated like this has me really worried. I'm just... not ready to lose another ally. I hope she can calm down."// "I think I just felt a rain drop," says Rhett. "We should head under the tarp." Buddy sighs. "You know what I wish we got as a reward?" "What's that?" Louie asks. "Towels." As if in response to Buddy's remark, the rain starts coming down much, much harder. "Don't jinx the storm or anything," says Rhett, already sitting inside the shelter. (if: $selected is 1)[Before Buddy and Candace can get in the shelter with the others, an unfamiliar voice booms over the sounds of the rain. (colour: green + blue + blue)[**"Stay right where you are!"**] "No thank you!" Buddy darts into the shelter. The chickens start sounding more agitated. Rhett flips open a door at the top and tries petting the birds to calm them down. "Oh, you are so brave," says Ashleia. "This isn't my first time around chickens," Rhett replies. "When you've lived in a rural area as long as I have-" (colour: green + blue + blue)[**"Nobody cares about your backstory! I guess you guys want to be difficult..."**] There is a bright flash of cyan light, that gives way to a slender figure. Biped, but resembling a blue fox in facial structure and fur, some members of the tribe immediately recognized him. Ashleia gasps. "OMG. It's... it's... who is this again?" (colour: green + blue + blue)["Excuse me? Who am //I//? This is MY show."] "Oh, it's Percival," says Rhett. "Season one's overpowered, unlikable dumbass," says Louie. "The fuck you want?" (colour: green + blue + blue)["Just checking in. You guys look like some of you could use my help."] Percival snickers. (colour: green + blue + blue)["Don't forget that I know what makes all of you tick."] "Prove it," Buddy snaps. (colour: green + blue + blue)["Of course you want to try and pick a fight, Buddy. Give it a rest, no matter how tough you look you'll never be man enough for yourself."] "The hell does that mean?" Buddy nearly shouts. "You- you don't know what you're talking about." "Don't even acknowledge him," says Louie. "He leeches off emotion." (colour: green + blue + blue)["The same way you leech off your friends now? It's your own fault you're not an athlete anymore. You peaked at the ripe age of 21."] Louie growls. (colour: green + blue + blue)["I've proved enough, haven't I? Well, then let's get to what I'm here for. You-"] Out of nowhere, Percival winces and drops to the ground. He struggles to stand up, holding his shin, glaring at the person who just kicked him. "Shut up and leave us alone, dirtbag!" Candace yells. Percival glares at her. (colour: green + blue + blue)["Sneaky bitch, getting me with my guard down! You could chill out, you know. Maybe with an... e-cigarette?"] He grins. "DON'T YOU DARE TEMPT ME," Candace yells back. In the heavy rain, she hardly notices Rhett fiddling with the chicken cage. (colour: green + blue + blue)["Just a quick puff or two. It doesn't have any drugs in it, you know better than that. What harm could it do?"] Candace continues to glare at Percival, letting some of her drenched hair lie over her face. "Hey, foxface! Think fast!" Percival barely has time to turn his head slightly when a mess of distressed feathers hits him in the face. (colour: green + blue + blue)["Wha- hey! What's your problem!?"] Percival snaps, during an embarrassingly short struggle against the tribe's newly-won rooster. He stumbles back, trips over a tree stump, and falls backwards onto a grassy slope. Slicked with rain, Percival can't stand up, and keeps on sliding to the bottom of the hill. Buddy looks at Rhett. "Did you just throw the rooster at him?" "I had to," Rhett replies. "WHY!?" Buddy yells, but it's drowned out by an even louder sound and a crackle of lightning. Candace looks at the bottom of the hill for a second, and jumps into the shelter. "He just got struck by fucking lightning." Ashleia's jaw drops. The rest of the tribe is disturbed by Candace's statement, except for one. "Great teamwork, let's hope that's the end of his BS," says Louie. "Should we do something?" Vaclav asks. "Call the medic?" Louie makes a //don't worry about it// hand gesture. "I'm not going back out in this weather." $q[**Quibas**] "You know, I totally forgot about that Percival guy," says Khall to nobody in particular. He is standing alone, doing nothing. "But it sounds like the malevolent spirit inside him was just vanquished. All's well that ends well, I suppose." Denine, who is sitting nearby, looks concerned for Khall's mental well-being for a brief moment.](elseif: $selected is 2)[$q[**Quibas**] Denine is sitting by the firepit. The rain has let up for now, and she is watching Khall mumble something to himself.] She then speaks up. "You're not mad at me, right?" Denine asks. "Why would I be?" Khall replies. "Have you done anything to me that I should know about?" "If I had, why would I warn you?" says Denine with a cold expression on her face. "I just know that your old teammates put in a good word for you, but I haven't seen them talk to you lately." "Sometimes I just need my space," says Khall. "And with Vaclav on the other tribe, I have to focus a lot more on keeping the latrine wormhole-free." "Oy, not this again." //"Don't mistake a lack of enthusiasm for a lack of effort," Denine explains. "When nobody else is around, I'm open to talk, provided it isn't about anything stupid. I want my tribemates to think I have their back, but one on one. I may backstab their allies, but I would never backstab them in particular. Of course, that's not true and will never be true."// "I was just confused that if they weren't taking with you, why wouldn't you talk with anyone else?" Denine asks. Khall shrugs. "I guess I just forgot. Nothing against you, but right now we aren't exactly involved in each others' plotlines." Denine refuses to acknowledge his answer. "Would you tell me if my name came up?" "I think so, probably," says Khall. "Unless I forget, which is possible. Right now, I think the plan's still Rocky." "And I've checked his belongings," adds Denine, "and he has no advantages to speak of. This should be easy. You think we can throw the challenge and just get it over with?" "I'm just worried that if we keep taking out Ochora we'll find ourselves in a stalemate at the merge," says Khall. "And you might be loyal to us here, but when you're reunited with Louie then it's up in the air." "I like Louie, but I'm not saying that I want him at the end," says Denine. Khall looks behind Denine. "What do you think? Can we believe her?" The person who had just arrived, from behind Denine, spits on the ground before rubbing the spit into the dirt with his shoe. Denine turns her head around and her jaw drops. "Khall," she says angrily, "why the //fuck// didn't you warn me?" Rocky smirks. "It's not like I don't already know, princess. Just wait until the rest of the tribe hears about your little sabotage plan." He turns around, sprints off, and is out of sight before Denine could even get up, let alone catch him. "Good, now I'm doomed," says Denine. "Unless you have an idol," Khall chimes in. "Why would I root through his stuff if I had one!?" "If you did, why would you warn me?" Khall grins from ear to ear, or at least his eyes give off that impression. Elsewhere, Jackie is climbing up a trail by herself. //"So, the plan right now is just to vote Rocky out," says Jackie. "But is it going to be that easy? I don't think so. And if something changes, I want to be a part of that and not be left out of the loop for a third time. I'm so much better of a player than what you've seen so far."// She encounters Rocky, stops, and taps him on the shoulder. "I can see you," says Rocky, "you didn't need to do that." "Well, none of us can see your eyes behind those unfashionable shades," says Jackie. "You don't know anything about style," Rocky replies. "You won't find a pair better than these." "That's not important," says Jackie. "I'm not sure if you realize but everyone really wants you out right now." "Of course, I know that!" Rocky snaps. "But not everyone. I was just talking to Denine earlier and she told me the craziest thing." //"Nobody ever just gets out of the way because they realize how much more awesome I am than them," says Rocky. "But I don't pick fights I can't win. And to win this fight, I need to stoop down to their level."// "She wants to throw the challenge," says Rocky. "I should have known," says Jackie. "She's so ungrateful that she's on the winning tribe now. If she's so concerned about saving her friends, then maybe she could go in her place!" "You'd do that?" Rocky asks. "What, and wait for her to throw it again once she hates someone as much as you?" "That's the crazy part," says Rocky. "She thinks your old tribe is the biggest threat. She couldn't get Vaclav out, so now she wants to cut the head off the snake." "That scheming little bitch!" Jackie scowls. "If she even //dares// to throw us off our game, she is done for!" //"So Denine wants to stab me in the back? After all we've done for her!?" Jackie opens her mouth with a look of pure disdain but stays silent for a second. "Well, unlike her, I have an alliance, and they're all going to know how much of a traitor she is."// $c[**Chalpe**] The tribe decided to take advantage of the dry period to get a fire started. (if: $selected is 1)["I'm glad we at least found the rooster after all of that," says Louie. "Shame we couldn't just cook up our unexpected visitor." "You're seriously disturbed," Buddy replies. ]"Well, let's try to get the rooster cooked," says Rhett. "Nothing else we can do with him. We're on Survivor, not Chick Raising Simulator." "I can't wait, seriously," says Candace. "It's been so long since we had anything substantial." "Didn't you get a bread reward at one point?" asks Buddy. "It was just that. Bread. Nothing else," Candace replies. "We haven't gotten to the good rewards yet." While the rest of the tribe chat, Ashleia steps aside with Vaclav. "Okay, like, I just have to say. I'm really sorry for the way Jarrett treated you," Ashleia says. Vaclav nods. "You didn't do anything. That was his fault. He's gone now." "I still didn't vote with you," replies Ashleia. "I should have known when you said his name." "It's fine. As long as you don't want me out again." Vaclav sighs. //"I feel so alone right now," Ashleia explains. "Just when I thought that I actually had some people on my side, everyone just lied to me and took out one of the only guys I've trusted." She sniffles. "I need to do something to make sure I'm not next and stuff."// "Please don't be upset," says Ashleia. "Like, I know where I stand right now. I know that I might be in danger because I didn't vote with you. If I was you I would probably want to keep Buddy over me." "What do you mean?" asks Vaclav. "I don't get it." "Just because, like, I can tell you're a nice guy." Ashleia wipes her eyes with one hand. "And if it comes down to it, I don't want it to be unanimous. I'm asking you to cast, like, a stray vote. Can you do that for me?" "Yeah, of course," says Vaclav. "Don't vote me. I won't vote you." //"Ashleia is not on my radar," Vaclav explains. "I'm actually kind of worried as to why she would ask me that. I haven't heard her name at all, so... oh are they just not talking to me now? They're going to keep Buddy and Louie, and Ashleia's making sure I can't idol her out. I just got it yesterday, how could they know I have it?"// After Ashleia left, Vaclav stays by himself, glancing over the paper he snagged from the chicken cage. "Congratulations, you have found a clue to the- no way." Vaclav freezes. "It's the idol clue to the idol I have. Nobody can see this." "Hey, Vaclav!" Vaclav blinks, shoves the idol clue in his mouth, and turns around quickly to see Rhett approaching. "The chicken's almost ready," says Rhett. Vaclav nods, trying to inconspicuously hide the clue with his tongue. "I'll be there in a minute." "It's okay, I can wait. Say, have you noticed there haven't been any idol clues or anything?" Rhett asks. Vaclav winces. "Yeah, it's... really weird." "It makes me think that the idol situation isn't what it seems," says Rhett. "I think they aren't giving any clues. The production is just planting idols on people they want to get far. They've done it before, right? That must be why Rocky's still in, they're feeding him insider knowledge and other advantages." "Wh-what would make you think that?" Vaclav asks, trying to gently chew the clue. "Think about it! He's strong, abrasive, he makes good TV! He's the network's wet dream!" Rhett stretches his arms out for emphasis. "And did you notice how well he did on the last challenge, just to make sure he wouldn't get screwed by the swap? It's fishy, isn't it?" Vaclav nods, closes his eyes, and swallows the clue. Rhett notices the unpleasant face Vaclav makes as he does this. "Yeah, it's awful to think about. Where's the integrity of these people?" //"It's settled," says Rhett. "I have to get rid of Rocky. It's going to be tough since we're not on the same tribe, and I'm running out of time before the jury starts, but it's the right thing to do. Then we can finally play the game it's meant to be played - without a producer's pet!"// $q[**Quibas**] "He looked me dead in the eye and he swore up and down! Denine is not with us!" Jackie exclaims. Her alliance looks at her, then shares glances between themselves. "And now we have the idol problem solved for sure," says Jennifer. "We split the vote." "We need to make sure it's one of us who kidnaps someone," says Paula. "We need to have six solid votes. Three on Rocky, three on Denine." Monty shakes his head. "I don't like the sound of this. We had a good thing going, why not just stick to the plan?" "This is the plan, now," says Jackie. "So, like, time to put up or shut up." //"I was always afraid of this," Monty explains. "I don't have V here anymore, and I think without him Paula is starting to go with her fellow girls. I don't want Paula to make things complicated and set herself up for failure. She's too smart for that."// "I'm sorry, but it's the way it has to be," Paula explains. "The other option is to have faith that Rocky would go after Denine. I really don't like those odds. Just vote Rocky like you planned to, the rest of us will sort out who goes where." "And we need to do it offscreen," says Khall. "Unspoken Plan Guarantee, after all; complicated plans are only laid out to the audience if they're supposed to see them fail." "We can't really control editing tricks out here," says Jennifer. "All we can do is be clear and communicate." Meanwhile, Rocky is having a similar conversation with Denine. "Now listen here, woman," says Rocky. "Someone's feeling gentlemanly," says Denine. "Would you prefer 'bitch'?" "I'd prefer you drop dead." "I told Jackie you're throwing the challenge to vote her out," says Rocky. "What!? Why would I go against her?" Denine snaps. "Old Quibas is five strong," says Rocky. "So is your old tribe but you hate each other, clearly. They're the threat, and Jackie thinks she's the biggest one." "You think she just took that without questioning everything I've said about you?" asks Denine. "I didn't have any other choice," says Rocky. "If you thought I'd just let myself get sacrificed then you're dumber than she is." Denine glares. "So what do you want?" "Well, new ally," says Rocky, "we're on the bottom together, and we need each other. With any luck, they'll get cocky and try to split the vote." "The majority of them still want you out way more than me," says Denine. "They don't have any reason to-" "Shhhhhhhhh..." Rocky pulls something out of his pocket and places it against Denine's lips. It's a small bracelet, made of wooden beads. All of the beads are stained with a colourless finish, and the string holding the bracelet together is a dark indigo colour. "Is that the hidden immunity idol?" Denine asks, knowing the answer all too well. "They have a great reason to split the vote," says Rocky. "But I have a bit of a long shot plan to get us both into the next round. I assume you're in, because the alternative doesn't look all that great for you." "Kidnap Louie so we have more leverage?" Denine asks. "Let them kidnap someone," says Rocky. "If we kidnap Louie next round, then worst case scenario there'd be four of them and only three of us still." "Even if they vote out one of their own, they'd still have the numbers next round," says Denine. "So really we're just delaying the inevitable." "Too bad you're going to do it." Rocky grins. "I'm not the one in danger here." //"So Rocky completely ruins everything for everyone, then tries throwing me under the bus, THEN wants me to forgive him!?" Denine folds her arms. "He's a bona fide dumbass. I don't want to deal with the other people here, though. I'm doing nothing but sitting here getting rained on, and I just want to go and break something."// [[Day 17<-Read Day 17]]

$t[**Day 18 Town Square**] "One vote. You couldn't even hold it together for ONE VOTE." As the six remaining members of Quibas arrive at the Town Square with Rhett, Jennifer is busy giving Jackie a hard time. "I thought we were going to work together," says Jennifer, "but what do you go and do? You stab me in the back and work for you know who!" "I said I wanted to work with you," says Jackie, "but I also said that Monty was weak, he sucks, and he had to go." "You never said that! What the hell are you on?" Jennifer protests. //"I'm really disappointed in Jackie and Khall right now," says Jennifer. "We had the numbers, and they just flip on us because they can't let the past go. I'm pissed, because who knows if we're going to get a chance like that again?"// "You're making up a justification on the fly," says Rhett. "You're hiding something!" "Stand down, guys," says Paula. "She never liked Monty, even from the start. It made sense to her, it was just horrible timing on her part." "Horrible timing? Oh come on, he wasn't your dad or anything," Jackie replies. "Let it go, it's a game." "Stuff it, Jackie," Jennifer snaps. "'It's a game' but it's a million-dollar game. Of course we're going to take it seriously." "Monty didn't," says Jackie. "He was just here to 'have a good time and make friends'. Like, who does that?" "I do," says Khall. "That's, uh, great." Jackie turns to Khall. "You can go and build a sandcastle, or stand on a cactus, or something now." Khall shrugs. "I guess it is my defining character trait." He walks off. //"Monty's gone, which is great for personal AND strategic reasons," says Denine. "But what I didn't expect is for Jennifer to flip her lid, not on me or Rocky, but on Jackie. Please, burn some more bridges, I beg of you."// "I'm going to go and try to recuperate," says Paula. She turns around and walks back to camp, hands in her pockets. "Awesome job," says Jennifer, "you broke Paula." "Serves her right for voting out Tara," Jackie replies. "The first boot girl? You're still bitter about that?" Rocky chuckles. "I don't even remember the name of the first person I voted out." "Min-Ji," Denine, Jackie, Jennifer, and Rhett say all at once. "Oh yeah." "Was that so hard?" Denine asks sarcastically. //"So Paula and Jennifer are upset about Monty leaving. So what? Now they know how it feels," says Jackie. "You get rid of my friend, I get rid of yours. If anything you should be glad that it took as long as it did. And to be honest, I'd like to see Paula follow him right out, considering how close they were."// $q[**Quibas**] Paula arrives back at camp, walks right past Khall (who is doing a handstand on a small cactus), and sits in the shelter. She buries her face in her knees, trying to keep herself from sobbing. Khall notices Paula's distress, drops off the cactus, and walks over to Paula, giving her a big hug. Paula can't hold it together any longer. She begins to cry into Khall's cloak. "I'm really sorry," says Khall. Paula says nothing, but returns the embrace. "It's alright, Paula, it's okay to be sad over losing a friend," he continues. "It's not even that," says Paula. "I knew at some point Monty was going to get voted out. I just... didn't think it would be so sudden." "And the way the other side seemed so mean-spirited about it," Khall adds. "Exactly! See, you get it!" //"There are more feelings to Survivor than pride over getting a vote right, and anger over getting blindsided. I think some people don't realize that," Khall explains. "This tribe doesn't have that human aspect right now."// "I have to ask, how do you manage to put up with that?" Paula asks. "Put up with what?" Khall asks in return. "Jackie's attitude, she's so dismissive of you," says Paula. "She's been using you for a vote. I don't see what you have in common." "That's easy," says Khall. "We make an entertaining duo because we're opposites. Our dynamic alternates based on whether the scene wants me to call out Jackie's recklessness and lack of foresight, or if it wants her to call out my flightiness and lack of common sense." "I don't get it." Paula wipes her eyes. "Jackie isn't the only person in the game, is she?" Khall shakes his head. "Then why do you act like she is? Do you really want to just be her follower?" "It's not that I want to," says Khall. "It's just the way things work out, I guess." //"I came back absolutely defeated," Paula explains, red in the face from crying, "and it just all came out. I'm glad I had Khall here to make me feel better. I just also have to break up his alliance before it even forms, so that's what I tried to do."// "You think in terms of story lines, right?" Paula asks. "It's what I'm used to," Khall replies. "I think I have an idea," says Paula. "What story line do you think is happening right now with you and Jackie?" "You know, I don't think I've considered that," says Khall. "What story line //is// happening?" "Well, Jackie criticized Monty for having an attitude similar to yours," says Paula. "When you spoke up, she dismissed you. You lean on her for strategic advice, even when you know she's making a mistake." "I got it!" Khall snaps his fingers. "This is still kind of the build-up, when a villainous character takes another character they think is slower, and tries to use them as a second vote, maybe even as a goat." Paula's eyes widen. "And you don't see the problem here?" "Not really," Khall replies. "The slower character, if they aren't a first boot, tend to make it deep into the swap before they're cut." "We're in the seventh round," says Paula. "Oooh, that's a problem," Khall replies. "Eliminating me here would need some really contrived events to go down in the next few days.." "It took a lot of contrived events for Monty to suddenly be voted out," Paula counters. Khall blinks. "You're right..." "My point is," Paula continues, "it doesn't have to end that way." //"I was wondering why I was getting so much visibility with Paula if we weren't connected by an alliance," says Khall. "But this makes perfect sense. Maybe I'm not meant to take the fall for Jackie. It's just a question of when that will come into play."// $c[**Chalpe**] Ashleia and Rhett are watching Buddy attempt to start a fire for the tribe. "This shouldn't take too long, I hope," says Buddy. "I seem to remember a fairly large argument happen the last time you said that," Rhett replies. Buddy stops, gives Rhett a dirty look, and gets back to work. "We can't take any more time getting this started," says Ashleia. "We are all soaked. We need the fire to help us dry off, right?" "You know, you don't have to question yourself all the time," Buddy replies. "I'm not. I'm just, like, saying." //"I can come up with ideas of my own," says Ashleia, bringing a hand to her chest. "I'm not stupid, I'm a grown woman who can handle herself. I need to prove myself, and I won't do that by laying low."// "I think I got something," Buddy says quietly. Rhett and Ashleia nod in approval, then turn to each other. "So how do you feel about this group right here?" Ashleia asks. "Like, I was hoping we could come together last time but that didn't work." "Every vote is different," Rhett explains. "We needed to get rid of Jarrett last time. I don't think we need to get rid of anyone this time." "You aren't, like, going to turn on me and Buddy?" Ashleia asks. Rhett shakes his head. "Unless you have any idols I should be worried about." Ashleia looks a little surprised. "I don't have any idols." "It would camouflage perfectly with your jewellery," says Rhett. //"After the complete and utter humiliation I went through yesterday, I've realized that nobody here can be trusted," Rhett explains. "Ashleia was on Rocky's tribe, and they failed to vote him out. How can I be sure that she's not working with him... or worse, working **for** him?// "I've got something," says Buddy. "Ash, come here, help me get it going." Ashleia nods, and kneels next to Buddy. The two attempt to feed the small flame with dry leaves, and gently blowing so it will catch. "The hell is up with Rhett?" Buddy asks. "I don't know," Ashleia replies. "Like, I don't get why he's so suspicious of everyone all of a sudden." "Maybe he's just shaken up over the vote," Buddy replies. "We were all talking about how we hope they finally get rid of Rocky, and lo and behold he's still over there." Ashleia looks over at Buddy in shock. "Are you serious? They didn't vote him out?" "There was a split vote plan, and it went haywire, apparently," says Buddy. //"So like, three different times people have been going after Rocky," says Ashleia, "and then it changes at the last second and he's still here. I have a feeling that, like, this time it's not because someone didn't trust Monty. This is the game getting serious."// "We can't take him for granted anymore," says Ashleia. "Right. And if he finally does go, there are going to be people without any game plan because getting Rocky out is all they're talking about," Buddy adds. "We should have the same game plan," says Ashleia. "You're honest, and I need someone who's honest on my side." "Deal," says Buddy. "Let's keep an ear out, after almost a week something has got to give." //"The whole tribe has been kind of disoriented since Jarrett left," Buddy explains. "We have side deals here and there, but nothing is really coming together. Which is great for me and Ashleia, because we were on the wrong side last time. Jarrett was the A-type personality, and without him the others are just lost."// $q[**Quibas**] Denine is leaning against a tree with her right arm propped up above her head, when Rocky walks up to her. "Hey, bestie," says Rocky with a fake enthusiasm. Denine rolls her eyes and looks away. "Clearly you aren't doing anything important," says Rocky. "What are you thinking about?" "How much everyone here sucks," says Denine, "including you." "But who sucks enough to be voted out?" //"We pulled off a great blindside last night," Rocky gloats. "They were furious! We have the upper hand now, so we gotta keep that momentum and not let this opportunity go to waste."// "Really, anyone," says Denine. "I'm just waiting to get to the merge to hook back up with Louie." "Speaking of obvious duos," Rocky continues, "you think we should stick with Jackie and Khall?" Denine nods. "Jackie wants Paula out, she'll get heat for that again, not us. And Jennifer wants nothing to do with any of us." "Should we split the vote between Paula and Jen?" Rocky asks. He and Denine look each other in the eyes for a second before bursting into laughter. //"The rest of the tribe was expecting to have everyone around them fall in line," says Denine. "The problem with that strategy is that it's stupid. You don't cast votes to send a message, you cast a vote to send a bitch packing, and that's the end of that. So that's what I'm going to do with my vote."// Meanwhile, Jackie and Khall are sitting together by the fire. "I kind of feel bad for voting Monty out," says Khall. "He was a nice guy." "Then we did not know the same guy named Monty," Jackie replies. "He was obnoxious, he was ignorant, he was uncultured, and he was holding us back. Just watch, without him we're going to go back to winning." "Is winning all that matters to you?" Khall asks. "No, of course not," says Jackie. "It also matters that I do better than my sister." //"Despite being totally witless, somehow my twin sister Emily managed to get 11th place when she played. And she wouldn't have gotten that far if it wasn't for Rex, so if I can do better than her with an ally dumber than Rex, that's its own kind of victory."// Denine then approaches the pair and sits down between them. "Listen, we need to talk about our next steps," she says. "So Jennifer hates us, and Paula's with her. We're going to have to stick together now." "Then we're voting out Paula," says Jackie without missing a beat. "Done. Do we need to kidnap anyone to make that happen?" Denine asks. "You, me, Rocky, and Khall. That's four. We don't need any more," says Jackie, "let's not make a mistake and split it." "Jennifer's stronger than Paula," says Denine, "that's my only reservation. We can't keep Rocky around to stop her from winning immunities, because at some point he needs to go as well." "We just need to wait for a trivia immunity challenge then," says Jackie. Denine smirks. "Yeah, I could take her down in that." "I was talking about myself beating her, but go off," says Jackie. "I could probably beat her in a trivia challenge too," says Khall. "If Khall can beat her, she's nothing to worry about." Jackie flips her hair. "So there's no reason to keep Paula." //"Paula tried to shade me for a poor social game, but who's the one with the majority alliance now?" Denine shrugs, and smiles. "I'm not afraid of her or whatever plans she has, because I intend to keep the numbers and use them correctly."// $c[**Chalpe**] "I feel nauseous..." Candace is sitting down, back propped against a tree. Vaclav is sitting near her, sometimes looking at her, sometimes staring into the sky. "Do you need something to eat?" Vaclav asks. "You can have half of my rice if it would help you feel better." "I don't know, it might just come back up." Candace holds her head. "This sucks." "We don't have a challenge today, so try and take it easy," says Vaclav. //"I have this queasy feeling in my gut that I can't shake," says Candace. "It makes me feel like crap, and it's like everything around me is... five times worse. The sun's too bright but the shade is too cold, nature is too noisy, my clothes are itchy, and I just don't want to talk to anyone."// "I'm such an idiot. Why did I think I would be able to just kick the habit in a time like this?" Candace groans. "Kick the habit?" Vaclav's eyes open wide. "Why didn't you tell us this earlier? I'm not going to judge you for it." "Because really it's not your business," Candace replies coldly. "When you're feeling weak and sad," says Vaclav, "it's the tribe's business." "...fine." Candace takes a deep breath. "I used to vape. It was just harmless stuff, right? Blowing cloud rings, doing tricks, looking cool. I knew better than to do drugs, I barely even touched weed. But it was just a little liquid. I even stayed away from the gunk that probably had nicotine in it!" "Was it a hobby?" "Pretty much." Candace gently bites her lower lip for a second before continuing. "My friends all did it. I thought I could be smart about vaping while doing it. I guess I was wrong." //"When Candace told me her story about vaping, I was a little confused," says Vaclav. "How can you be addicted... if there is no drug? I feel bad for her, but I don't know what is really wrong."// Louie arrives a little later, and he pulls Vaclav aside to talk. "She's not feeling so hot," Vaclav explained. "I don't know if she's sick or not." "We might need to vote her out if she is," says Louie, "for her own sake." "What? But she sided with us," says Vaclav. "Do you really want to stab her in the back? She would not be very happy." "It doesn't matter to me," Louie replies. "Her health comes first, and if that's what we use to vote her out, then that's what it has to be." "I would not be very happy if someone did that to me and I was not sick," says Vaclav. "Well, if she's not sick, we vote someone else," says Louie. "The others have their reasons too. Listen, Vaclav, if you have a chance to eliminate someone without them even realizing they're in danger, you take it." //"We have six people left on each tribe, and that doesn't leave much room for error," says Louie. "We're past the point where votes were based on common sense consensus. I'm not looking for the one that brings the team down, I'm looking for who makes a good target."// [[Day 19<-Read Day 19]]

**Day 19 Reward Challenge** Everyone is competing in the beloved Pesky Palate challenge. Two players from opposing tribes will go head to head and see who can eat a native dish that might not sit well with them. First tribe to reach four points wins a trip to a Survivor Burger Bar with beer and cocktails to get the taste out of their mouth. ''Round One:'' $c[Vaclav] vs $q[Rocky] Rocky tells his tribe he's going to show them how it's done, only to have quite a bit of difficulty. Regardless, he finishes before Vaclav can, scoring the first point for $q[Quibas]. ''Round Two:'' $c[Buddy] vs $q[Jackie] Jackie is incredibly hesitant, and Buddy takes advantage of her squeamishness to tie it up for $c[Chalpe]. ''Round Three:'' $c[Louie] vs $q[Khall] Louie devours his dish before Khall can even react, putting $c[Chalpe] in the lead. ''Round Four:'' $c[Rhett] vs $q[Paula] In the closest match-up of the day, Rhett and Paula both manage to choke down the majority of their dishes. The first one to swallow their last bite is Paula, giving $q[Quibas] another point. ''Round Five:'' $c[Ashleia] vs $q[Jennifer] Both girls are squeamish, but neither backs down from the challenge. Ashleia struggles to recover after a too-large bite, however, and Jennifer comes back from behind to score the third point for $q[Quibas]. ''Round Six:'' $c[Candace] vs $q[Denine] Candace takes one look at her dish, nearly vomits, and then passes out. Denine takes her time to finish her dish, not even looking at Candace. $q[Quibas wins reward!] $c[Chalpe loses, and returns to camp with nothing.] **Reward - $q[Quibas]** The winning tribe arrives at the burger bar, all of them ecstatic to get their hands on a good, filling meal. "Make sure to savour it," says Denine as she assembles a burger, "you gotta have it sink in more than the garbage we ate to win this." //"I was wondering if we would get around to doing the Survivor buffet challenge," says Denine. "And now that we actually did, I feel so amazing that I not only won my round but clinched the reward for my team! I totally could have done it even if my opponent didn't completely fall apart, too."// After having a few bites, some of the women excuse themselves, leaving Jennifer sitting with Khall and Rocky at the bar. "Jennifer," says Rocky after taking a bite of his second burger, "I think we got off on the wrong foot." Jennifer raises her eyebrows and drops her jaw. She says nothing, but the intensity of her sarcastic expression says enough. "We've both made mistakes, and I don't want to just be everyone's enemy all game," says Rocky. "Care to forget the past and start fresh?" "It's going to take a lot more than that," says Jennifer. "I'm not going to be quick to forgive someone who needlessly harassed my tribe when we lost one time. You never have a good word to say about anyone. I don't like you as a person, and I don't want anything to do with you. Unless you say something that keeps both me and Paula safe if we lose, don't talk to me." "Jennifer, I'm sorry I didn't vote with you," says Khall, "but you don't have to box all of us out." "I would understand if it was a normal blindside," Jennifer replies, "but Monty didn't do anything wrong. He was the one who said we should give Rocky a chance. We did, and then he blew it." "Are you actually mourning him?" Rocky asks in disbelief. "If he was as good as you say he was, he would have been a jury threat anyways. Think about it: 'Ah'm here because Ah want a better life for mah young'uns.' Everyone would eat that up and you know it. That's why I wanted to toss him like a moldy banana." "First, bananas don't usually get moldy," says Jennifer, "so you're an idiot. Second, isn't it just so convenient that you eliminated the guy that everyone liked except for Denine and Jackie? Hmm, what do those two have in common?" "Don't imply they're using me," Rocky snaps. "It's the other way around. We both know that the two of us are the only ones actually using our brains here." "Hey, don't say that in front of Khall," says Jennifer. "He doesn't mind," Rocky replies. "I do mind, actually," says Khall. "I just didn't want to get involved." //"Jennifer is my biggest rival right now," says Rocky. "She's the only one who can really stand up to me, and that's kind of a problem. I don't want her out yet, if anything I think we can work together."// "Here's the thing," says Rocky. "We're going to win tomorrow. If we somehow don't, Paula's going home. We're going to need to stick together to survive at the merge." "If you think I'm going to agree to that, you're crazy," says Jennifer. "Which part?" Rocky asks. "All of it, but especially the part about voting Paula. Over my dead body." "It's her or you," says Rocky. "And considering my friends want to vote Paula out, you should consider yourself lucky. And if you don't want to play along, that's fine. You can follow her right out the door." Jennifer shakes her head. "If all you have are empty threats, then this circles back to the whole 'shut up, Rocky' thing I was talking about. Bartender, can I get a Long Island iced tea?" //"This tribe is swelling with egos," says Jennifer. "Rocky has one, Denine has one, Jackie has one. No way should those three all be able to keep it together. I'm going to do everything I can to keep the only trustworthy person I have left from getting voted out."// Denine, Jackie, and Paula had excused themselves to have a conversation away from the burger bar. "So, what did you call us over here for?" Denine asks. "You're holding me back from the alcohol, and mama's got needs." "I'm looking to shake things up," says Jackie. "Paula, Denine, I trust you guys more than those three over there to not be dumb, so I'm telling you only. I think Rocky's a threat, and we need to get him out." "What?!" Denine looks at Jackie in shock. Paula narrows her eyes. "Well, Jackie, we were going to do that, and you decided to be selfish and made me lose my good friend. So why should I believe you this time?" "He knew he was on the outs last time," says Jackie. "He saw it coming, so I had to vote Monty to make him //think// that I flipped." "If you weren't flipping then why did you do it?" Denine asks. "We could afford to lose him," says Jackie. //"I want to keep my options open," says Jackie. "Rocky is going for Paula, Paula is going for Rocky, Jennifer and Denine I don't care, they'll stick with their allies. I'm going to make sure I can kidnap the right person, so with Khall I'll have the majority and take out anyone."// "So you want me to vote Rocky, even though people have tried and failed to do so three times already?" Paula asks. "He's still here, and I'm starting to grow tired of the same old plan failing over and over." "Your other option is to vote out Jennifer," says Denine. "That's the option I suggest you go with, anyways." "If it's the only thing I can do, then I might have to," Paula replies. "You know I don't really want to, though." "The ball's in your court," says Jackie. "Just be sure to tell us, Jennifer or Rocky. One of them has to go." She walks off, giving a sly wink to Denine on the way back to the bar. Denine looks back at Paula. "I'm not going to lie, blindsiding Rocky when he thinks he's finally safe is tempting." "I don't believe a single word that comes out of Jackie's mouth anymore," Paula replies, crossing her arms. "She's not really planning to do that. Besides, she's dead to me." She blinks. "Just don't tell her I said that." //"If Jackie really did want to make amends, I don't see why she would wait so long to ask me," says Paula. "I have a feeling that she wants either me or Jennifer out. I really need us to win tomorrow."// $c[**Chalpe**] Candace is lying down in the shelter, with a jacket draped over her. It is difficult to tell whether she is asleep, or merely trying to be. Vaclav looks at her, then looks back at Rhett. "I think we should leave her be. It's best for her." //"I think the reward would have been nice," says Candace. Her face is unusually pale. "But when they needed my point to stay in, Quibas was already ahead. The reward wasn't worth it, in my opinion. I'm more embarrassed that I fainted than I am upset."// "This is the worst I've seen her," says Rhett. Vaclav nods. "I'm worried. If she doesn't get better, we might have to vote her out so she gets better. That's a safe vote... a bit too safe. I can't be sure someone will use Candace being sick to split the vote." "There aren't many people callous and cruel enough to keep someone who's clearly suffering in a state like this," says Rhett. "If you're never callous and cruel, you can never win this game," Vaclav replies. "There are no good guys, only temporary friends." //"Vaclav is a very dangerous person," says Rhett. He folds his arms. "He refuses to engage in good faith dialogues, and no bond is sacred to him. People like him, who are completely self-serving, are the most easily corrupted by those with money and power." Rhett lowers his voice to a somewhat loud whisper. "I have a sinking feeling that Vaclav would plunge a knife in your back if the despotic Vincent Boucher or his producer henchmen demanded it."// Louie approaches his tribemates, and discretely taps Vaclav on the arm with one finger. "I want to try something," he whispers. Vaclav makes a slight shrug gesture. "She's not really looking much better, is she?" Louie asks. "She hasn't talked to us since after the challenge," Rhett replies. "Mind if I take a look at her?" Louie nudges Vaclav. "Go ahead." Louie walks over to Candace, kneels close to her, and pretends to take her vitals. "Nothing personal," he whispers to Candace, before getting up again. //"I nearly went home last time we voted," says Louie. "Normally I would be sweating bullets, but Vaclav is fine with me and everyone else is kind of an idiot." He smirks and leans forward over his pudgy legs. "I don't see my name coming up tomorrow, and if it does, it won't mean anything."// "Yeah, it looks really bad," says Louie. "It's probably contagious. I suggest you try to avoid any physical contact with her, and try not to touch the same things she touches. Otherwise, you might get sick too." Vaclav and Rhett both look at the shelter and notice that Candace is sleeping under Rhett's purple and blue plaid jacket. "We can carry one sick person, but not two," Louie continues. "She's... using my jacket..." Rhett stammers. "Why isn't she using her own?" Vaclav asks. "Couldn't find it, I guess," Louie replies. "And I couldn't give mine up. I don't want jaguar flu." "She has jaguar flu!? Why aren't the medics doing anything?" Rhett's eyes go wide. "This is insane! Someone, anyone, help!" He runs off, looking for someone to help. Vaclav stares wide-eyed at Louie. "Does she really have jaguar flu?" he asks. "There's no such thing as jaguar flu," says Louie. "For someone who says he's an intellectual activist, he's not that bright." //"I do not know why Rhett is so quick to trust some people but not others," says Vaclav. "He thinks Vincent, who is always nice and friendly, is out to get him. But for the people he lives with, who really could be plotting against him right in front of his face, he is gullible! I just do not understand."// $t[**Town Square**] Jackie, Ashleia, and Buddy all arrive at the town square at the same time from their respective tribes. "It's good to see you're still alive," says Buddy. "How was reward?" "I didn't eat a lot," Jackie replies. "I was busy thinking for most of the time." "Do you think the tribes will come together soon?" Ashleia asks. Jackie nods. "And I'm glad that I ran into you guys, because I'm definitely better off with you guys come merge than with my current tribe." "We, like, already have the numbers," says Ashleia. "You trust those people not to flip? We need backup," Buddy tells her. "You're right, sorry." Ashleia's eyebrows lower, her expression losing its joy. //"Buddy seems to have something against the others, no matter where he is," says Ashleia. "I don't take it personally, I've been around even more disrespectful men. He isn't smug about it like they are, and that's what, like, gets me so confused."// "Who do you actually want out, that's what we need to know," says Buddy. "Paula," says Jackie. "Monty's gone, so now her time is up, too." Buddy's expression turns to confusion. "Your... wasn't Paula your ally? You were on the same tribe together." "Yeah, we were," says Jackie. "But you were on the same tribe as Denine, and she says you two hate each other." "Denine's a psychotic bitch who doesn't know when to stop," Buddy replies. "What did //Paula// do to you? She's... she seems nice enough." "She just doesn't listen to me," Jackie replies. "And I can't communicate with someone who doesn't communicate back. You don't want to put your trust into someone like Paula who's difficult, manipulative, and-" "Alright, we're done talking," says Buddy. "Excuse me?" Jackie snaps. "Did you not hear me?" Buddy replies. "Bye, Jackie!" //"I feel like I have to stand up for Paula sometimes," says Buddy. "Not because she can't do it herself, but she just doesn't want to. She'll try to get around an obstacle before confronting it. The Paula that I know is nothing like what Jackie is saying about her, so I know that Jackie is a bad liar and a bad ally."// "Um, Buddy, I think you're being a bit too, like, harsh," says Ashleia. "And honestly how dare you," says Jackie. "Jackie, who else would you vote out with our tribe?" Ashleia asks. "Like, I think Rocky and Jennifer," Jackie replies. "We can't trust her to vote out Rocky," says Buddy. "And hell no about Jennifer." "I don't know if we can, like, actually vote Rocky out either so we're not going to try for right now," says Ashleia. "Well," Jackie puts her hands on her hips and blows a raspberry. "He's my other target, so if you loooove Paula and Jennifer so much, you should vote him out anyways." "You're a waste of space," says Buddy. "Bye bye. Get out." //"I am speechless," says Jackie. "I thought I could get Ashleia or Buddy to make sure Paula went home, but they're just so stubborn. Well, they'll have something coming when we merge. It might not be right away, but I will make sure they have zero chance of winning."// [[Day 20<-Read Day 20]]

**Day 20 Immunity Challenge** This challenge has two parts. In the first part, five contestants on each tribe have to alternate between jumping over and crawling under a set of eight horizontal beams. They must then lift one person up to a high platform, where they will cut a rope that releases a ladder for the other four to climb. All five of the contestants will then climb down a mesh ramp that returns them to ground level, where they face an oversized, sixteen-piece number puzzle. The sixth player has to direct the rest of their tribe to finish the puzzle. First tribe to complete the puzzle wins immunity. Both tribes quickly agree on an order. The physical component will be done by everyone except for $c[Ashleia] and $q[Jackie], who will direct the puzzle component. Out of the gate, Chalpe is slowed down by Louie, who struggles to pull himself over the beams due to his weight. Khall attempts to jump off one beam into a somersault underneath the next, but instead face-plants on the second beam. Despite Paula's concerns, he gets up and shakes the injury off as if nothing happened. Quibas arrives at the platform slightly before Chalpe, and they choose to lift Paula up to the platform. By the time they hoist her up, Louie has finally caught up with the rest of Chalpe. Paula picks up the machete, gets a feel for it, then steadily gets to work on cutting the rope. Chalpe chooses to lift Buddy up to their platform. Buddy takes his machete and forcefully swipes at the rope. The two best friends focus on the challenge, neither taking more than a glance at the other. Buddy finishes first, and when the ladder is released Candace races up first. Vaclav and Rhett stay behind to try and help Louie up the ladder before them. Candace stops and sits down when she reaches the top to catch her breath and wait for Louie. While Louie is climbing the ladder, Paula cuts her rope and the Quibas ladder comes down. Chalpe gets everyone up their ladder, they all run down the mesh ramp, and Ashleia immediately starts giving out instructions. Quibas takes slightly longer to get everyone up, and they all run down the mesh ramp together. Jackie starts rushing out commands to everyone in an attempt to take the lead back. Both tribes make a mistake or two, but it does not take too long for one tribe to find a rhythm. They take about five minutes to push all of the oversized number blocks into the right positions. $c[Chalpe gets the right answer first, and they win immunity!] $q[Quibas loses, and will be headed to tribal council to vote off one of their own.] Vincent tells Quibas to kidnap someone besides Rhett from the Chalpe tribe. The majority votes to kidnap Vaclav. $c[**Chalpe**] After a satisfying victory, the Chalpe tribe is beginning to settle down for the night. Ashleia and Candace take a walk down a main path from camp, leaving the male tribemates to their own devices. "I think I'm getting better," says Candace to Ashleia. "I was able to push through today. I didn't want to hold us back from immunity." "Thank you," Ashleia replies. "I know it must have been hard for you. If I was feeling as sick as you were yesterday, I wouldn't be able to function." Candace nods. "I knew it was do or die." //"I couldn't tell you how much of that was in my head versus actually coming down with something," Candace explains. "I hit a boiling point. Day in and day out, I have to deal with toxic energy from almost everyone around me, and you can't just take that on the chin."// "I would have tried to find a way to save you," says Ashleia. "I appreciate it, Ash, I really do," Candace replies. "But some of our teammates are out for blood. If they kidnapped the wrong person they would have tried to pull a power move. When someone has an idol, you can't predict how it's going to be played." "Oh, I wasn't even thinking about that," says Ashleia. "It's late enough in the game to be worrying about that," says Candace. //"I wasn't, like, thinking about an idol for one reason," says Ashleia. "If someone has it, they need to be sure it's worth not having it later. Nobody is going to take a sick person out premerge with an idol. They would be looking at people who scare them or hate them, and I haven't been scaring or hating anyone."// "I think I'll get better if the fighting stops," says Candace. The girls arrive back at camp, and see Buddy and Louie standing next to the chicken cage. "We might as well, to celebrate our win and all," says Buddy. "We only have one chicken left, and it hasn't even been a week," Louie replies. "We can still get some eggs out of her." "Oh boy, one or two eggs divided between six people," says Buddy, rolling his eyes. "And that will make all the difference." "As opposed to one chicken today and no eggs ever again?" Louie asks. "If we merge next round, we would have to share that chicken," says Buddy, "and it would be dumb of us to do that. This is **our** advantage that we won, we might as well enjoy it ourselves?" "And if we don't merge, then you look like an idiot." "I'm clearly not the only one willing to take that risk." Ashleia looks over at Candace, who is pinching the bridge of her nose. Suddenly, Candace nearly throws down her arm, and shouts at Buddy and Louie. "Who gave you the chicken rights!?" "Chicken rights?" Louie asks, confused. "Rhett's the one who knows about chickens, why are you having a bitchfest about something you know nothing about?" Candace yells. "Have you even been feeding them since we got it? Because if not, we're going to have some weak ass chicken meat on our hands!" "Candace," Ashleia calls out, "you just told me that this was the whole issue!" "This in particular," Candace replies, "this **nonstop** battle of the egos, is **everyone's problem!**" Ashleia sighs. //"I'm only hoping that the other tribe is as much of a total mess as ours," says Ashleia. "We're going to need all the help we can get."// $q[**Quibas**] Paula, Jennifer, and Vaclav are sitting in the shelter discussing the vote. "So, which way do we go? We're spoiled for choice," says Jennifer. "Well, we need to either hope that they're splitting the votes or that I can get Khall to flip," says Paula. "I've been trying with him because I think he's our best bet." Jennifer and Vaclav share a pained glance. "...what?" //"I'm in a tough spot, but I have two ways out of here," says Paula. "I have to at least do what's needed for both ways, and that is to find out what Khall sees and wants. He's more perceptive than people realize."// "So voting him or Jackie is probably out of the question, even though they both deserve it," says Jennifer. "Yeah, it could be Rocky or Denine again," Paula replies. "It's not really up to us, though." "I'm not happy that your plan relies on the most difficult player to read," says Vaclav. "Our only hope is that there's something that can help us that we're not seeing," says Jennifer. "Vaclav, you're voting with us no matter what, right?" Vaclav nods. "I owe Paula for saving me, anyways." "Monty was the one who almost got voted out," says Paula. "If anything, I owe you for making me not look stupid." //"I don't know if I'll side with Paula," says Vaclav. "She was my friend, but I have friends on my new tribe now. I can't be hung up on old bonds, especially ones that I had trouble with, and tonight I might need to let go of one that I wanted to rely on."// Meanwhile, Denine, Jackie, and Khall are talking by the riverbank. "So everything I said to Paula was a lie and I want her gone," says Jackie. "Khall, I know you might like her, but I don't, and Denine doesn't so that's two against one." Khall looks at Denine, who shrugs. "We couldn't compromise? I don't think she's the biggest threat," says Khall. "She's been trouble for us since day one," Jackie replies. "You haven't forgotten her voting Tara out for no reason, have you?" "No, no, of course not!" Khall replies anxiously. "I'm just saying, are you not being a bit too rash?" "Rocky's already on board for Paula," says Denine. "And we don't know if Vaclav is going to chicken out." //"We should have the numbers tonight, but Vaclav was all about tribe unity last time I checked," says Jackie. "To be sure, he should stick with us because then once Paula's gone we're all in the same alliance. I want Vaclav to be my third vote so I have control over Denine and Rocky."// Elsewhere, Rocky has got a hold of Vaclav. "The chicks won't shut up about voting out Paula," says Rocky. "Just join us and I'll make it worth your while." "Are you trying to threaten me?" Vaclav asks. "No, just to bribe you," says Rocky. "You're not the one who'd hear the whining if it was only 4-3. They want to get to the merge with Jennifer as a get-out-of-jail-free card." "I don't know if I can think that far ahead," says Vaclav. //"Seeing as that I'm the only one here who can plan their way out of a paper bag," Rocky explains, "I want to have some guy time with the nerd from the other tribe so he knows how much easier it will be for all of us if he just rolls with us. I'm not trying to ruffle any of these sissies' feathers, so if someone else can be the deciding vote instead of me then the heat's off me once again."// Rocky is about to formulate a response, but someone comes up from behind and knocks him to the ground with a foot sweep. He cries out in pain, but his assailant talks over it. "Oh, quit your bellyaching," says Khall. "I want to talk to this guy now." Vaclav looks on in shock, but Khall continues talking. "Jackie is really on me about voting out Paula. She thinks that I can't trust you." "You can't trust anyone," says Vaclav. "Not even me? That's not very nice," Khall replies. "Sneak attacking me into the dirt wasn't very nice," Rocky groans. //"I've been with Jackie since the very beginning," says Khall. "Is it right of me to turn my back on her in her time of need? She would do the same for me, I think, but I don't know for sure. And if I break my word, would she ever forgive me? I can't go on this alone, not when almost everyone else has a partner in crime."// "What would you do," Khall asks, "if you had to choose between keeping a promise and keeping a friend?" "Whichever one was better for my game," says Vaclav. "And if you mean tonight... I'm not sure yet, either." "Ergh..." Rocky grunts, attempting to get up from his nasty fall. "Just vote Paula..." $v[**Tribal Council**] The Quibas tribe and Vaclav walk into the tribal council building. They place their lit torches behind their seats, and sit down in front. $v["Welcome back, Quibas,"] says Vincent. $v["I take it that things have been flipped around since last time, Rocky, or have they?"] "Obviously," says Rocky. "Last time they got cocky and tried to throw one of their own under the bus because of an idol that didn't exist. So now we have the guilty parties on the bottom where they belong." "And one of them is actually going," says Jackie. "Because they had weak numbers, and we actually have a sturdy alliance. We even made sure we kidnapped someone to make it happen. I talked to Ashleia and Buddy, they didn't have the guts, so we have someone new here instead." "So all your talk about catching Rocky with his pants down was a total lie?" Paula asks. "What, you didn't figure that out already?" Jackie replies, with a smirk. "Oh, I knew it wasn't true," says Paula. "I'm just shocked that you're admitting it so suddenly." "I'm just shocked that you knew you had no chance," says Jackie, "and you still lost the challenge for us." $v["Denine, as someone who was taking heat last time, do you think you're in the clear tonight?"] "I think so," says Denine. "Jennifer and Paula may be tight, but they're only two strong. The rest of us need to only take one of them out, and we won't make the same mistake of spreading ourselves thin like they did." "You do realize why we split last time," says Jennifer. "Do you have an idol?" Denine asks. "That's classified," Jennifer replies. Denine nods. $v["Vaclav, you weren't here last time, and you're getting thrown into the mess left behind by an incredible blindside. Does this make this vote any different from a vote held before the lines are drawn?"] "I'm not sure whether I want to go with the flow or not," says Vaclav. "The consensus seems to be voting out Paula, but I don't have the choice to make it unanimous, it seems. Jennifer, you're still with Paula, right?" "I'm doing exactly what I told you I would do," says Jennifer. "Care to elaborate?" Rocky asks. "Why should I?" Jennifer snaps. "Being coy worked out well for you, mister hotshot." Vaclav clears his throat. "But I'm not on this tribe. For me, there's no momentum to follow, I just have a vote that I can use to set the game up for myself." "Cryptic," says Denine. $v["Jennifer, if Paula leaves tonight, that leaves you in a very bad spot. You don't sound like you're going to try to cut her loose for a better deal, so what can you do?"] "Pleading my case," says Jennifer. "Vaclav, if you go back on your word just to look good to these morons, I will personally end you the first chance I get. You said it yourself, no momentum, so don't you dare take the cowardly way out." "Don't get scared by her," says Rocky. "She's all split vote and no bite." "Shut up, Rocky!" $v["Khall, is there anything to be gained from turning on someone right after saving them?"] "Not a lot," says Khall, "but I don't want to do that." Jennifer grits her teeth in annoyance, while Denine smirks. "Because last time I saved Denine!" Khall exclaims. "And she's not who I'm voting for!" "We know you aren't, what's your point?" says Jackie. "Come on, I want to get to the good part." "I'm voting you out." Paula looks over at Jennifer and Vaclav, completely stunned. Denine's smirk fades away. "By 'you', you mean Paula," says Jackie. "No, I mean you, Jackie. I'm voting against you tonight." Khall crosses his arms. "I've had enough of you bossing me around. You don't listen to my ideas, and whenever I come up with something smart you overrule me with something stupid." "Stupid? Now isn't that ironic!" Jackie snaps. "It's not ironic," says Jennifer. "I warned you that I didn't want Paula out, that we could be doing something else," says Khall. "But you let your petty rivalry get in the way, and tried to guilt me into just following along!" "I've been your best friend all game, since Paula voted out your other best friend!" Jackie yells. "Does that not mean anything to you? Do you think she will defend you the way I've defended you? Now before you do anything **petty**, you should stick with where the numbers are and vote Paula out!" "You don't know numbers!" Khall snaps. "Your plans were always doomed to fail! Do you think Rocky and Denine care for you at all? We're a means to an end for them, and I thought you would have figured that out by now! And if I can't convince you that following them down into the pits of nobody-likes-you is a bad idea, then I need to cut my losses!" "Hell yeah!" Jennifer and Paula cheer. "No, that's wrong!" Jackie turns to Denine and Rocky. "You guys know I am one hundred percent with you. We still have the numbers, we can do this!" Denine nods. "Do you still want to do Paula? Or try switching to-" Rocky scoffs. "Fat chance! You think you're going to catch me on this sinking ship?" "Sinking ship!?" Jackie snaps. "You and Khall were a package deal," says Rocky. "And now he wants nothing to do with you. The tables have turned, and I'm not going to be on the losing side by sticking up for a backstabber." "What the hell, Rocky?" Denine glares. "Right now we don't have the liberty to choose our allies." "Khall does," says Rocky. He leans in to whisper to Denine. "So we have to save face. I suggest you switch your vote to Jackie as well, if you want me as your meat shield and not the other way around." Jackie looks over at Vaclav. "Please... you need to give me immunity. You want to keep the tribe together, don't you? We need to shake the game up." Vaclav appears deep in thought. Jackie, meanwhile, winks to Denine. Denine winks back, but immediately turns to cover her face with her hands. "Don't fall for it," says Paula. "It's a distraction. Keep it and put her out of her misery." "I promise I won't vote for you if you give me immunity," Jackie replies. $v["Vaclav, what are you going to do? Will you give up your immunity?"] Vaclav sighs. "Jackie. Do you swear that giving immunity to you won't send me home?" Jackie nods. "I'm sure of it. I swear." "I don't buy it. Let's vote." Jackie's jaw drops, and her face begins turning ghostly white. $v["That's settled, then. Paula, you're up first."] ... Jennifer casts her vote for **Jackie**. "Oh, how the whiny has fallen. Nice knowing you, hoe." Jackie casts her vote for **Paula**. "You suck. You suck soooooo much. Everything that's gone wrong with this tribe has been your fault. You lost the challenge today, you're in the minority, you should be going home today. I HATE you, Paula! You suck! And tell Jennifer that she sucks too! You both suck, and Khall sucks, and Vaclav sucks, and Rocky sucks. I hope this camp burns to the ground! I deserve better than this, and how dare you all do this to me! Go to hell, all of you, but especially you, Paula!" ... $votesarein $v["First vote... 'Paulawful.' Ooookay. One vote for Paula."] "So mature," says Paula. $v["Second vote is for Jackie."] Jackie folds her arms, scowling. $v["Jackie."] Rocky nudges Denine, who pushes him away. $v["Jackie. Three votes for Jackie, one vote for Paula."] Khall gives a thumbs up to Jennifer on his right side, then to Vaclav on his left. "You actually disgust me," says Jackie. $v["Fifth vote... **Jackie**. That's four, that's enough, you are the seventh $boot. You need to bring me your torch."] Everyone looks happy with the results, except for Jackie and Denine. Jackie looks over at Denine before getting up. "Don't pout, you're the one who didn't have the guts to stick up for me. You're not getting my coat." "Thanks for playing," says Jennifer. Jackie shoves her torch into the slot in front of Vincent, who is waiting with a torch snuffer. $v["Jackie, the tribe has spoken."] "And I hope they never speak again," says Jackie, as she watches her torch get extinguished with dramatic music playing overhead. $v["It's time for you to go."] Jackie marches out of the tribal council building, arms completely straight as she sways them back and forth. Her hands are on the verge of clenching into fists. $v["No matter how solid a plan seems,"] says Vincent, $v["the winds of change can come and blow anyone out of the game. You can never be sure when those winds may come. You can head back to camp."] $q[//"That was so unfair," says Jackie, still scowling. "I made a great move last time, and I expected the others to listen to me, but then I get stabbed in the back by **Khall** of all people? I trusted them to do the right thing and vote Paula out, and they crushed my heart! They don't know what they're doing, and it's going to come back to haunt them, and I won't be feeling sorry! At least I got... no, they wouldn't even let me get farther than my stupid sister!" She pulls her forearms in front of her face and screams in frustration.//] Voting Results: ''Jackie - Denine, Jennifer, Khall, Paula, Rocky, $c[Vaclav]'' Paula - Jackie [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$t[**Day 21 Town Square**] $arrive (replace: "votenum")[five](replace: "votedpeople")[Quibas plus Vaclav] "You made the right decision," says Paula to the others. "You saw her back there, she was having a complete meltdown." "That only made it easier," Vaclav replies. "I can't believe she would make a play for my immunity." Khall shakes his head. "I was afraid you'd give it up." The rest of the tribe stays silent. //"Once I saw that Paula had the votes to stick around, I knew what I had to do," Rocky explains. "I don't have any loyalty to anyone here. Sticking to my plan would have put me on the losing side, and I'm not someone who likes to lose."// The group quickly disperses into pairs to discuss their game plans. Jennifer and Paula walk back to camp by themselves, talking along the way. "You definitely shocked me there," says Jennifer. "I was already thinking about just aligning with Vaclav and flipping at the merge. Good job on actually getting Khall to flip." "Well, thanks," says Paula. "It wasn't all me, though, I think he just didn't want to admit to himself that he had to change his ways." "But do you think you can keep him?" Paula looks confused. "What do you mean?" "If he can turn on allies so easily, what makes you think that he won't do it to you?" Jennifer asks. //"There's only five of us, now," says Jennifer, "and normally that would be enough to hold together and take out the outsiders. But with the kidnapping twist, and the fact that Khall is unreadable, suddenly he's a lot less useful. There's a fifty-fifty chance that he'll go right back to Rocky and Denine in my mind, and that's not going to fly."// "Well, right now, I'm all that he has left," says Paula. "I don't want to betray him. I'd rather not pass judgment until he tells us what he wants to do from here." "I wouldn't trust it," Jennifer replies. "Tonight was the first time he voted your way." "Maybe he finally saw the light," says Paula. "Jackie was supposedly his partner in crime, and he chose me over her." "The two of you put him between a rock and a hard place," says Jennifer. "Next time, though, they're not going to go after you. It's going to be me or one of our allies, and do you really think Khall is about to completely change his tone and play your game to the letter?" //"I owe Khall a lot after tonight," says Paula. "I put my faith in him, and he pulled through for me, and I appreciate that. Just because I'm not willing to treat him like a pawn who has now served his purpose doesn't mean I'm bowing to his will or anything... I don't even know what his will is!"// Khall stays behind to talk with Vaclav. "And with that begins the next chapter of my game," says Khall. "Of everyone's game, really," says Vaclav. "We've been here 20 days, there are only 19 left until the end." "I just meant that I'm not under anyone's shadow anymore," Khall replies. "Okay." Vaclav keeps his head forward, not saying anything else. Khall looks up at Vaclav, noticing a lack of expression. "Hey, are you mad at me?" "I'm not," Vaclav replies. "You're being quieter than usual," says Khall. "Are you upset about how the vote turned out?" "No, she needed to go," says Vaclav. "It was not the right time to do anything else." //"Last night was a little too easy," says Vaclav. "Khall turned the entire tribe around, when he could have just kept his head down and pulled off a blindside. We all voted for Jackie, though. The battle lines are gone. Where do I go from here?"// "What's your plan?" Vaclav asks. "What made you turn on Jackie?" "I already gave my reasons," says Khall. "Everything I said to her was the truth. I wasn't doing myself any favours being where I was." "So it was entirely out of spite?" "It wasn't out of spite." Khall poses heroically. "It was out of justice." //"Not everything has to be some big scheme to make the end," Khall explains. "Sometimes I do things because it just feels right. I can't help if that's an issue for some people. It's just the way I am."// Meanwhile, Denine and Rocky walk back to camp not far behind their female tribemates. "I can't even look at you right now," says Denine. "We didn't need to flip, and now we're down two numbers. Not one, but TWO!" "I'd rather lose numbers than lose a vote," Rocky replies. "Jackie was dead weight. Don't tell me you feel bad for her, do you?" "Not really," says Denine. "Good. Neither do I. I do kind of pity her, though, because for all that time she thought she was the one in control." Rocky shrugs. "Irrelevant," Denine snaps. "Now, look at who actually has the power on this tribe. That's right, Jennifer does! This is a worst case scenario." "She's not a threat to us," Rocky replies. "I have an idol, and she clearly doesn't. The day she actually does something beyond just talk will be the day that I take her seriously." //"The thing about these amateurs is that they're all showing their hands too early," says Rocky. "I'm getting a hang of how everyone operates. I see who's really playing the game, and who's just a mouth. I'm going to figure out how to pick off the real dangers without giving the mouths any credit."// $c[**Chalpe**] As Vaclav returns back to camp, and his solemn expression confuses the rest of his tribe. "What happened?" Candace asks. "I can sense your feelings of isolation from here." "You didn't get blindsided, did you?" Louie asks. Vaclav shakes his head. "I am fine. Everything is fine." "Everything's not fine," says Rhett. "What do you mean? Is something wrong?" Vaclav asks. "You're asking //us?//" Ashleia asks, stunned. "You look like you just got dumped via text message." "Maybe I am just stressed," says Vaclav. "We all voted Jackie, and she was really angry about it. And now, I don't know if they are going to stick together or not." //"Vaclav got me thinking," says Ashleia. "I mean, if they can come together now, does that mean they're going to stay together? If they do, then we need to merge up in numbers. More importantly, like, is this tribe going to stick together?"// "I think, like, we should stick together as well," says Ashleia. "There are five of them, there are six of us. We have the numbers, but if they think they're going to flip one of us, then being six strong is our only hope." "What if they turn on each other?" Buddy asks. "Then that's good news for us, isn't it?" Louie replies. "We wipe the floor with them." "If we merge tomorrow, and one of you guys flip right away," says Candace, "you've lost my jury vote. I'm not even joking. Even if they say 'oh you can vote one of our old tribe next time', call their bluff!" //"I don't see any problem with Ashleia's plan," says Louie. "Well, there's one major problem. I don't want Buddy around more than I need him. I'd rather get Denine to jump ship to take him out, or at least keep me company."// "Rocky doesn't deserve to have made it this far," says Rhett. Upon mention of Rocky, Louie rolls his eyes. "Even if his whole tribe bails him out, we have the numbers to do something about it. We can get vengeance for everyone he's gotten out of here. It can be the six of us to the end." "If that's your motivation, then okay," says Ashleia. "We can't just go for just Rocky, though. They each cast one vote, after all." "It needs to be our number one priority," Rhett replies. "What about all the people that spoiled the split vote plan?" Vaclav asks. "If Rocky wins immunity, that's an option." "Then we just can't let him get immunity," says Rhett. Buddy shakes his head. "If it's an endurance challenge, good luck." //"Once again, everything is about Rocky with him," says Buddy. "If it will get him to snap out of it and move on, by all means, I'll vote Rocky out. But I don't like the idea of having five whole votes dictated for me; I'm not reaching the end on someone else's plan. At some point I'm going to jump off, and pick a path I make myself. Preferably with Paula and not Louie."// $q[**Quibas**] While Denine is filling up her water flask, she is approached by Jennifer, carrying her own flask. "Hey, Denine, can I talk to you for a second?" Jennifer asks. Denine takes a breath before responding. "Yes, you can." "How close are you, actually, with Rocky?" "It's an alliance of necessity, and you know that," Denine replies. "I just remember you having a bit of a quarrel with him last night after Khall said he was going to flip," says Jennifer. "He doesn't respect you, just like nobody respects him." "Yeah, well, but he's convinced I need him, and that I'm an extra vote for him," says Denine. "Of course, the reality being everyone and their grandma can beat him in a final two." //"I'm not totally fixed on the idea of bringing Rocky to the end, because it means 20 more days of Rocky," Denine explains. "Right now, though, I have a fairly small circle. I'm not relying on things staying exactly how they are now. If there's someone I can use, and they're not in danger, I'm going to try and keep using them."// "Denine, you're tight with Louie and you're seemingly tight with Rocky," says Jennifer. "You're in two tight pairs, and that's not really a good position to be in." "There are definitely better targets out there right now," Denine counters. "Everyone knows how annoying and possibly dangerous Rocky is. If the tide turns against him and he can't do anything for me, suddenly I'm not in two pairs anymore." "He's not doing anything for you right now at all." Jennifer looks Denine in the eyes. "Rocky isn't your meal ticket. You know that if this is really the best strategy, someone will come in and try to steal him away from you. Next thing you know, you're on the jury and your goat is at the end without you." "The jury hasn't even started yet, Jen." Denine caps her flask. "And he's not the only one who isn't doing anything for us." "And who might you be referring to?" Jennifer asks, eyebrow raised. "I'm talking about Khall," says Denine. "We both know we can't really understand him, let alone trust him. You didn't even know he was going to vote with you until halfway through tribal. Do you like strategizing on the edge of your seat?" "He's with me right now. I'm not going to treat him the way Jackie did." "He has a weaker bond with you than he did Jackie," says Denine. "Come to think of it... does anyone really have a bond with him?" //"Jackie and Khall were a duo for as long as I can remember," says Jennifer. "But Khall turned on her. Lucky for us, but that kind of throws everything I know about Khall out the window. His casual conversations always result in more questions than answers. He's on a completely different wavelength. But is he really not involved with the game? That, I'm not sure if I can answer."// "I think it's time we head back," says Jennifer. "I have a feeling that we're going to get treemail soon." "If it's another immunity challenge, I'm probably going to scream," says Denine. Jennifer shrugs. "I don't think we'll be that unlucky." $t[**Town Square**] The five members of Quibas arrive at the Town Square, where they see the six members of Chalpe waiting for them, sitting around several baskets of food sitting on the green tarp formerly used in Ochora's shelter. "What took you so long?" says Louie. "We're dying to eat over here." "You poor thing, you must have been suffering," Denine replies, sitting down next to him. "Do we need to call the medic?" "Denine," says Louie, "for the past three weeks I've felt like I have that one condition where you're so hungry that your stomach bloats." "Nope, you're just fat," says Rocky. "Your rack is bigger than mine, Louie," Denine adds. "Nobody needed to hear that," snaps Buddy. //"It smells like the merge is finally here," says Louie. "About time, too. I was getting sick and tired of the least annoying person around being Vaclav. And now there should be enough people here that they'll let me sink into the background and pull strings that way."// "So, Ash," says Candace, "do you wish to partake? You better jump in there if you don't want someone to snag your share." Ashleia nods, grabs a plate, and begins assembling a sandwich. "This is a well-balanced meal, Candace. I just wouldn't have that much bread." "Food is energy," says Rhett. "Energy is strength." "Which is why I'm eating now," says Ashleia. "I don't get what you're trying to say." //"I want to try and connect with people, but instead I'm getting talked to about my diet," says Ashleia. "It's totally rude. I'm making smart choices so I can continue to look good and feel good. That's important for me, because I don't want to sacrifice my well-being for this game."// Khall nudges Paula with his elbow. "Am I the only one who feels... a little bad about celebrating so soon?" "Maybe," says Paula. "We don't know for sure it's the merge yet." "That's true," Khall replies. "But I meant, only last night we had a vote where a lot of people were frustrated." "I know, but the game goes on." Paula takes a bite of chicken, chews, and swallows before speaking again. "Besides, you did it to save me, didn't you?" Khall nods. "I know. I just feel a little bit bad for Jamie. She left without any friends." Paula nearly chokes on her next bite. "Jamie!? Who's that?" "The girl we just voted out." //"I don't always remember every little detail about everyone I meet," Khall explains. "It's not really their fault, it's just not everything I'm told is relevant to the plot."// "I guess you didn't care for her much after all," says Paula. "Not after I saw the real Jamie," Khall replies. "But that's not really important anymore," he whispers. "I promise I'll be on your side, no matter what. You, me, and Buddy, final three. What do you say?" "I-I mean, I'm not against the idea," Paula whispers back. "But I-" **"Don't touch that!"** Khall and Paula look over to see who had the sudden outburst. Vaclav was staring down Buddy, who had his hand near a bottle with a note inside. "That's going to end the feast, and probably throw in some kind of weird twist that completely ruins our day," says Vaclav. "You could just say you're not done," says Buddy. "It might not be the merge, it could be worse than that!" Jennifer looks at Vaclav, confused. "What, are you afraid it's going to release some kind of supervirus?" Rhett's eyes snap open. "For all we know, it could do that!" //"We had a good meal in front of us, that's something we've all been wanting for almost a month," says Vaclav, "and some people were just so eager to get back to the game that they were rushing me to finish, it seemed! I just knew that the bottle was going to take that away from me. All I wanted was just one moment of relief from the lies and deception... and also cheese."// Once Vaclav finished, Buddy opens up the bottle and removes the note inside. "You have now reached the end of many things," Buddy reads. "This feast, your time spent in two camps... and this very meeting ground." "This meeting ground, as in where we're sitting?" Candace asks. "Congratulations on making the merge," Buddy continues. "Drop your buffs, and bring your torches to the Quibas camp, where if you are lucky, you will live for the next eighteen days." "I hope that's it," says Vaclav. "It better be," says Rocky. "Let's go before the bones and table scraps start to smell." $m[**Former Quibas Camp**] Not long after getting to their new camp, a group of six players gathers by the tribe flag to pick a tribe name. "It should be something simple," says Buddy. "Something we can write down on the new banner." "What's our new tribe colour, anyways? Red?" Candace looks down at the buff around her neck. "Yeah, red." "We could pick something that means red..." Ashleia suggests. "In what? Spanish?" Buddy shakes his head. "*Too* simple." "Do we have any running gags or inside jokes that we can call our tribe?" Khall asks. Vaclav glares at Khall. "What's wr-" "I know what you are thinking of," says Vaclav. "We will not name our tribe that." //"You know, I hadn't even said anything yet," says Khall, "and Vaclav shoots me down. I don't know what's gotten into him, but he's forgotten how to not be serious. I can't say I'm very happy about that."// "We could just combine all the tribe names into one," says Paula. "Quichalpora, maybe." "I like that idea," says Buddy. "Bit unwieldy, though." The group plays around with other combinations of their old tribe names. "Ochalibas!" Ashleia says at last. "I love it!" Paula replies. "Let's write that down," says Candace. "Where's the paint?" "Rocky had it," Vaclav replies. "He said he wanted to 'liven up the joint'. What did he mean by that?" "Whatever it is, I don't like the sound of it." Candace looks around. "Say, where is he?" Everyone shrugs. "Never where you want him to be," says Candace. "Do any of you guys have a problem with voting him out if we lose?" //"If everyone has had as much of a problem with Rocky as I have," Candace explains, "then we have a straightforward vote. All I need to do is convince Rocky I'll save him with my idol. If we can do that, then we can all move on."// "I don't think so," says Buddy. "I can go for that," Paula agrees. "We aren't close." "That's fine," says Vaclav. "Alright, let's get the paint for the banner." Candace walks off with Vaclav. "Rhett's on board, it's all he's talked about for the past week," Buddy explains to Paula and Khall. "So we should have seven votes at least, depending on who else we can get. We can work things out after he's gone." //"I still have a deal with Paula and I will never go back on it," says Buddy. "So for now, I'm just making sure I can steer the rest of my alliance away from her and towards people that tried to vote her out last time. When someone needs the leftover Quibas numbers to make a move, I'll be there, too."// Denine and Louie are sitting in the shelter, which had never been expanded for more than six people. "So this is where you've been for the past ten days?" Louie asks. "Sucks, doesn't it?" Denine replies. "Well, I hadn't even commented on it yet, but sure." Louie coughs. "I'm just tired of being around those people I was stuck with. Say the word and I'll flip." "You can't trust my old tribe either," says Denine. "We pulled off a beautiful blindside with Monty, and then Khall ruined the NEW majority because his feelings were hurt or whatever. I only voted Jackie out to save my own ass." "You don't have any ass to save," says Louie. "You shut your food hole, Stay-Puft." //"I don't have a plan," says Louie. "In this game, I never do. The one constant is Denine, because she's committed to keeping me around. Can't fault her for what I want her to do, though."// "Well, if we can't trust those guys, the only one I can really try to pull in is Vaclav," Louie explains. "He's not really as emotionally unstable as he was before, but he doesn't like when things are too simple. He's a prime flipper." "And it pains me to say this," says Denine, "but the only one I have left on my side is Rocky." "Whatever happened to despising him and everything he stands for?" Louie asks. "You can blame Jennifer for that," says Denine. "She wanted to suck up to the majority and wouldn't let me get a word in. When I told her what was what, she threw me under the bus. She couldn't handle that I had a backbone." "So Rocky of all people is the one guy you haven't somehow burned," says Louie. "Way to go, girl." He smirks, but in a way suggesting it's at Denine's expense and not in support of her. //"So if I get Louie and Rocky with me, and Louie gets in Vaclav, that's still only four votes," says Denine. "If they split the vote perfectly, we still lose. So most likely, one of the other seven has to go, because I'm not losing two allies in a row."// Elsewhere, Jennifer and Rhett are catching up and putting together a game plan. "So your tribe wants to get rid of Rocky? All of them?" Jennifer asks. "I believe so," says Rhett. "It's hard to take them seriously because of some of them have chosen to NOT do that in the past." "Let's talk this out," says Jennifer. "Paula will definitely side with us. I'm trying to tell Denine keeping him is a bad move, and Khall is a big question mark. Who's on your side?" "Candace says she doesn't like Rocky, but has never voted against him, so we can't count on her," says Rhett. "Louie doesn't like anyone. You know who nobody likes? Rocky. They're a perfect fit, so he's out. Buddy told me we can't just focus on voting Rocky, so he has plans to keep him. Vaclav is too flighty, Rocky will use that to flip him. And I just don't have a good feeling about Ashleia." "So... nobody." Jennifer crosses her arms. "We need to watch them, make sure Rocky doesn't get a chance to flip any of them." "No need to worry. I'm right here!" Rhett turns around, becoming face to face with Rocky, and screams. "Seriously, Rocky! Do you ever learn?" Jennifer protests. "Of course I know not to interrupt people," says Rocky. "I just choose not to. Polite and structured conversation gets dry after a little while." //"Survivor is a game about adapting," says Rocky. "You have to adapt all the time, and if you can't, then you lose. So why not force some chaos on these people? If they can't adapt to that... well..." Rocky grins.// "This is a conversation we want to have without you," says Rhett. "So leave while you still can." "What's so important that you don't want me to know?" Rocky asks. "You know, based on what you know about us, and how much you screwed me over, you should know exactly what we're talking about," Jennifer replies. "Maybe I just want to make sure!" Rocky protests. "What's your problem?" "You are!" Jennifer and Rhett yell at the same time. //"Rocky skulking around like an unwanted party guest is driving me up the wall," says Jennifer. "It's not doing him any favours, the only thing it's going to get him is a bad case of these hands."// "Well, if you guys want to play the same old 'Rocky's a big fat meanie' routine like a bunch of chumps," says Rocky, "well that's fine! But I'm not going anywhere." "Then stay right here and whine," says Jennifer. "It won't change anything. I want nothing to do with you. You're a stupid, insecure wannabe who doesn't deserve jack. Now don't you dare follow me!" She storms off. "She's the insecure one," Rocky says to Rhett. "I don't need your opinion, Rocky." Rhett spits on the ground between them. "I know what you are. I'm not letting you get away with it." //"Rocky seems to know exactly when and where people are plotting against him," Rhett insists. "It's no coincidence. It's more than that. And you better believe that I, Rhett Mason, will uncover the truth and take down Rocky's malicious plot."// [[Day 22<-Read Day 22]]

**Day 22 Immunity Challenge** The tribe of eleven walks into the challenge area, each sporting a red buff somewhere on their person. $v["It's now time for your first immunity challenge as a single tribe. I'll take back the tribal immunity idol, as it is no longer valid,"] says Vincent. He takes back the idol from Louie, and puts it underneath a podium. $v["Today, only one of you will be safe from the vote. This is what you're competing for."] He pulls a blanket off the top of the podium, revealing a large pendant made of earth-toned ceramic beads. A gold-plated trinket with a yellow gemstone embedded inside hangs from the center of the pendant. $v["Whoever is wearing this at tribal council cannot have votes cast against them, and the only way to guarantee you have it tonight is to win this challenge."] Each contestant must stand inside a wooden frame. They have to balance on their toes in order to hold a wooden block upright between the top of the frame and their head. If a contestant lets their block drop, or touches either side of their frame, they are out of the challenge. Last one standing wins immunity. Everyone takes to balancing fairly easily, at first. Candace clasps her hands together and begins to hum, and Rocky grumbles. Paula falls after only a couple minutes. Not long after, Louie's heels sink, and his block falls. The remaining nine remain steady, none of them making much noise... except for Candace. (colour: purple + white)["I've got the world at my feet... success has been so easy for me..."] Candace whispers to herself. (colour: purple + white)["It's me who put me where I am now..."] "Not this again," says Rocky. "$100 goes to whoever can get her to stop that." Candace's eyebrows furrow, but she remains still. (colour: purple + white)["I know you can't believe it when you hear that I won't see you,"] she says, just loud enough for Rocky to hear. "What does that even mean?" Rocky asks angrily, not really caring for an answer. (colour: purple + white)["I know you don't believe me when I say that I don't need you..."] "Okay! Okay! I give!" Rocky jumps down with force, grabs his block before it falls, and chucks it across the beach. "Just shut up already!" Candace's face returns to a relaxed expression. (colour: purple + white)["I don't want you, Rocky... I don't want you, ohhh-o-o-ohhh..."] Rhett begins to struggle, but manages to correct himself and keep his block from falling. The next to have their block drop is Khall. He steps down and sighs. A little while later, Vaclav begins to have trouble balancing his block. He squirms to try and keep it centred, though as he does so, Jennifer loses her balance and her block falls. Rhett has a bit of a wobble, but this time is unable to recover. His block falls. Shortly after, Vaclav unwittingly holds his elbow against the frame to prop himself up as he moves his block back into position. He is caught by Vincent, and disqualified. "Hey, Candace," says Buddy. "Care to cut a deal?" "With four people still left?" Denine asks. "Are you nuts? Or have you already counted the rest of us out?" "Well, you wouldn't really know," says Buddy, "but when Candace gets in the zone, she is-" $v["Ashleia's block has dropped. We are down to three!"] "If we don't do something, neither of us is winning immunity," Buddy continues. "Candace will have this in the bag. And from the way things are shaping out, I'm not the one who's going to be missing it." "Is that a threat?" says Denine. "It's an observation," Buddy replies. "Who has the majority right now?" Denine doesn't respond. After a little while of silence, Buddy answers his own question. "If you honestly don't know, it's probably not you." "If I need this more than you," says Denine, "then drop." "Not while Candace is still in," Buddy replies. During the entire exchange, Candace does not say a word, and barely moves at all. Many minutes later, a particularly strong gust of wind comes in. It shakes everyone's frames slightly. Candace and Denine are able to adjust, but Buddy overcorrects and his block falls. When Buddy steps down, he nearly instantly falls to his knees. Denine takes a deep breath, in an attempt to steady herself, but ends up swaying ever so slightly backwards. She is unable to pull herself back upright, and falls backwards out of the frame. Vincent raises his arms, making the V for Victory sign with both hands. $v["Candace wins individual immunity!"] he shouts. Candace steps down, breaking her trance, and catching her wooden block before it hits the ground. "Oh, good... I'm starting to see funny colours." Most of the contestants out of the challenge clap and cheer for Candace. Vincent gestures Candace over to him, and places the immunity necklace around her neck. $v["Candace, immunity is yours. Congratulations, you are safe tonight, and have guaranteed yourself a spot in the final ten."] "I have found favour with the energies of this land," says Candace. "You have found a way to be even more annoying," says Rocky. $v["The rest of you will see me tonight at tribal council, where one of you will be the eighth person voted out. You can head back to camp."] $m[**Ochalibas**] //"Candace won immunity, which is good because I wasn't targeting her," says Paula. "All my options are still open. This is the first time I really get to see what Buddy sees, so I wanted to see if I could get some insight from him."// "Right now," says Buddy to Paula, "my old tribe wants to just vote out your old tribe one by one." "That's probably the worst case scenario for me," says Paula. "Tell me about it. But it's not all bad," Buddy explains, "right now all eyes are on Rocky. Is your old tribe sticking together?" "Not at all," says Paula. "All ties are severed. I'm down to vote out Rocky tonight." "I have a better idea!" Buddy and Paula look up and see Khall, hanging from a high tree branch by only his hands. He jumps down. "What are you...?" Buddy begins, but Paula puts out her hand to stop him. "Khall is with me," says Paula. "See, now we have eight votes against Rocky." "But what if we want someone else out?" Khall suggests. "I think now would be a good time to make a move against Vaclav." Paula's face nearly goes pale. "We don't have close to the amount of votes we need," says Buddy. "Not quite," Khall replies, "but is eight against three smart?" //"Has everyone forgotten about idols?" Khall asks rhetorically. "Everyone says they're voting Rocky. This has been tried three times. Rocky has more reason to look for an idol than anyone. And if he has it, then why should Rocky decide who goes instead?"// "Vaclav is in the majority," says Buddy, "with my old tribe. We both have connections with him." "But he doesn't really have anything to him besides that," says Khall. "He's always concerned about strategy, and that kind of person scares me. He's a physical threat, too..." "He'd never see it coming," says Paula. "Are you seriously considering this?" Buddy protests. "The three of us and Jennifer. That's four. If we have the other five voting Rocky, then no harm no foul," Paula explains. "We have to be able to consider everything." //"Paula, what are you doing?" Buddy looks exasperated and confused. "Now is not the time to be talking about blindsiding your friends. I know she's not prepared to handle the fallout by herself, and I don't like how Khall treats us as being so close despite not having any reason to."// Later, Buddy walks over to where Jennifer is talking to Candace and Vaclav. "So, you're good with a Rocky vote too?" Jennifer says. "That makes it easier for me. I was hoping I would get the chance to do that soon, anyways." "You don't think it would isolate your old tribe?" Vaclav asks. "I'll tell Paula," says Jennifer. "The others I couldn't care less about." "Guys... I think we should split the vote," says Buddy. "What? Why?" Candace asks. "If we get Paula on our side, that's seven votes against Rocky," Buddy explains. "But I don't really trust Louie. He won't go with a plan that puts Denine next on the block." "Rocky's the only target we can get everyone to agree on," says Jennifer. "There's someone else you wouldn't have any hard feelings over voting out," says Buddy, "and that person is Khall." "You know what? Screw it," says Jennifer. "If I have you guys' word that you're taking Rocky out, I'll vote Khall." "I'm voting him too," says Buddy. "We just need two more." //"This split vote is a bit too convenient," says Vaclav. "I need another side of the story, just to make sure this isn't some kind of trap to make me throw my vote away."// Vaclav decides to go talk to Louie, only to find him talking to Denine and Rocky. "Oh, so Buddy was right," says Vaclav. "You're working with them now." "Um, of course," says Denine. "I couldn't believe a single word that came out of their mouths," says Louie, without an ounce of emotion. "There's no way they're going to bring me over each other any farther than they have to." "Well, the plan is to split it between Rocky and Khall," says Vaclav. "Do you think we can rope him in and take out a threat?" "You're joking, right?" Rocky scoffs. "They want to split it between me and Khall, who's not even someone I'm working with. If we save Khall then we've stabbed Jessie in the back for no reason." "You mean Jackie," says Denine. "Yeah, yeah, whatever." Rocky crosses his arms. "Point is. Let those guys split it evenly, we pile votes on Khall." //"So much for their little majority alliance," says Rocky. "If they only kept us guessing who would be getting votes, they might actually have been able to make us all look like chumps. But now they've played themselves. At this rate I won't even need to play my idol!"// Khall is making his case to Ashleia and Rhett. "Vaclav thinks it's going to be Rocky tonight," says Khall, "but if Rocky has an idol we shouldn't waste it on Denine. Vaclav is the real threat, and if you vote him out then Rocky is next, and you have the five to four majority again." "He's right," says Ashleia. "Could we maybe delay Rocky's vote by a single round?" Rhett narrows his eyes. "He has to go. As soon as possible." "Vaclav is more likely to win immunity than Rocky," says Khall. "Please. Do you even have a connection with him at all? At least Rocky is a perennial rival of sorts. Vaclav is all strategy now, and that kind of person you can't have a bond with." "Well... I guess," says Ashleia. "He got Jarrett out. Who says he doesn't hold that against you?" //"I know strategy is not really my thing," says Khall, "I just want to relax and have fun before I go back to where I came from. But with Vaclav I have hit a wall; I'm sure he hasn't even watched the latrine for spacetime anomalies like I asked him to."// After Khall had left, Ashleia has a word privately with Rhett. "I think... tonight, it's not looking like Rocky," says Ashleia. "Vaclav told me he'd rather vote Khall out. If we vote Rocky, we'll get left behind." Rhett shakes his head. "Unbelievable. This is the fifth time now." "We just don't have the means to change it, the two of us," Ashleia explains. "We need to choose between Khall and Vaclav." //"Tonight is going to be, like, difficult for me," says Ashleia. "I'm making my own decisions here, so I need to look at which way will help me. Between Vaclav's vote, and Khall's word, I need to decide what I can trust."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The newly formed tribe of Ochalibas walks into the tribal council building, places their lit torches at the back of the room, and sits down. $v["Welcome back. Candace, what is your new tribe named?"] "We called it Ochalibas," says Candace. "It's all our old tribes put together, because all that separated us before was a name. So now our tribe name has a part of each of us in it." $v["It's a double-edged sword, though, is it not?"] Vincent asks. $v["You could rally under your old tribe name before, but now you're out for yourselves. Does that make having immunity especially important for you?"] Candace nods. "Just a few days ago I was at a low point, where I needed my tribe to pull through for me. I couldn't let that happen again." $v["In previous tribal councils, you all had one outside player you could deal with however you wanted. Some of you have been in that position, others have not. Denine, do you think having that role and seeing more than just your tribemates strategize will help you out?"] "No, that doesn't matter anymore," says Denine. "Because we've already met most of the others, we hear things. So we already have an opinion on most people here." "Speak for yourself," says Buddy. "I haven't gone to tribal with some of these people. I need to see for myself whether they're as trustworthy or reliable or dangerous as the others want me to believe." $v["Jennifer, you were never kidnapped by the winning team. Do you think what Buddy says is accurate?"] "Yeah, there are a few people I've never seen vulnerable," Jennifer explains. "But the vast majority of people have worked with me, or against me, so I have an inkling of how to deal with them. Tonight will clear up the remaining doubts." $v["Rocky, I see you rolling your eyes. What's your take on this?"] "Jennifer's out of her mind, as usual," says Rocky. "Clearly if she knew how to deal with me, Monty would still be here. And treating me like an obstacle and not a fellow player just makes me want to prove her wrong again, and again, and again." "You won't get the chance," Rhett blurts out. "Your days in this game are numbered, Rocky." "You and what army?" Rocky replies. "I'm not giving away my secrets just because I don't know yours yet," says Rhett. $v["Paula, does this mean Rocky's name is back on the table tonight?"] "Yeah, I've heard it," says Paula. "I don't know whether people actually want to write his name down, or if people are just saying it because everyone else is." $v["Vaclav, why would someone not write Rocky's name down?"] "Hey!" Rocky shouts. "What's that supposed to mean?" "Maybe people are saying Rocky because it is the safest name to put out," says Vaclav. "But it is not the smartest, and I think most people here know that. They are trying to buy time until they can come up with a better move. You have to be thinking all the time, and be ready for anything, or you will be left out." "I think you take it too far, though," says Louie. "Sometimes a pipe is just a pipe, the saying goes." $v["Khall, do you think there's something that people are keeping hush about tonight?"] "Yeah, and I don't know why," says Khall. "Everyone should know that there's a better plan tonight. From a narrative perspective, the timing is right for the merge vote to be a turning point, a big blindside." "What are you getting at...?" Vaclav asks. "Rarely do you see the merge go as smoothly as everyone deciding to vote against Rocky," says Khall. "We get the line drawn in the sand at this point between the people who flip... and the people who lose." "That didn't sound like something you'd normally say," Paula whispers. "Extraordinary circumstances," Khall whispers back. "After this I'd rather go back to being the comic relief for the season's focal point duo." $v["Okay, it is time to vote,"] says Vincent. $v["Buddy, you are up first."] ... Khall casts his vote for **Vaclav**. "Silly and serious don't mix. Nothing personal." Vaclav casts his vote for **Khall**. "I do not understand you. I never did. You are not understandable." ... $votesarein "Wait, not yet!" Vaclav calls out. He gets up from his seat and pulls a bracelet out from underneath his sleeve. He hands it to Vincent. "I'm playing the idol on me." Vincent takes the bracelet from him. $v["Vaclav is playing a hidden immunity idol... all votes cast for him will not count."] "What a waste," Jennifer mutters under her breath. Denine looks on, completely confused. $v["First vote... Vaclav. Does not count."] "I knew it," says Vaclav. "You were hiding something from me! You cannot make a fool out of me." $v["Second vote... Khall."] "Thanks, Vaclav," says Khall. $v["Khall. He leads with two."] $v["Khall. three votes for Khall."] Jennifer and Buddy exchange a knowing glance. $v["Khall."] "Well, this sucks," says Khall. $v["Khall. Five votes for Khall."] "Wait... is this unanimous?" Rhett asks. "How did Rocky know?" Rocky rolls his eyes. $v["Eighth $boot is **Khall**. You need to bring me your torch."] "Yeeeeeah, who possibly could have told him who else was on the chopping block?" Louie says, with a smirk. "Son of a bitch, Louie," Rhett growls. "You betrayed us!" "I had no loyalty to you, Rhett," says Louie. Khall shakes his head. "This is the kind of double dealing and negativity I wanted to avoid." He had already brought his torch to Vincent. $v["Khall, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent snuffs the purple-clad ninja's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] "Understood." Khall walks out of the tribal council building, looking forlorn. $v["After three weeks of saying it was Rocky's time to go, your bluffs were finally called tonight,"] says Vincent. $v["It's clear all of you wanted to bring an end to the status quo. Let's see if that was a mistake. You can head back to camp."] $m[//"Why do they even call it a council anyways? I don't recall ever being elected a councillor for anything," says Khall. "Oh, you wanted me to talk about being voted out? I didn't see it coming. I thought I had set myself up for being the likable mid-juror. I'm a little relieved, though, because if people here think more like Vaclav than me, then it's not going to get any more fun from here on out."//] Voting Results: ''Khall - Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, Denine, Jennifer, Louie, Paula, Rhett, Rocky, Vaclav'' ~~Vaclav~~ - Khall (void) [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 22 Ochalibas**] $arrivemerge (replace: "votenum")[ten] "And we all walked away from that vote satisfied," says Denine. "And watch it never happen again," Buddy replies. Denine smirks. "You're right." //"I love when things go according to plan," Denine explains. "Khall left, and most people are okay with it. I was worried that it was going to be the same old story, but maybe people are finally realizing there are more things you can do than target anyone who speaks to me."// Louie nudges Vaclav in the side, and the two of them step away for a private conversation. "What's the deal?" Vaclav asks. "Are you still thinking about what Rhett said?" "I don't care about what Rhett thinks," Louie replies. "I'm more upset with you." "Because I pleaded my case?" The glasses-sporting man crosses his arms. "Because you played an idol for no reason." "I had a great reason to play it," says Vaclav. "Nobody told me why Khall was targeted instead of Rocky. I would have been fine with either, but everyone was being suspicious." "Suspicious... how?" Louie asks. //"I kind of thought of Vaclav was my secret weapon," Louie explains. "He's emotionally dependent on me, but nobody else really knows. The more of a buffer I have, the better. The fact that he had an advantage he kept to himself, and then absolutely wasted it this early, definitely makes me question how much I can trust him."// "Everyone told me it was going to be Rocky," says Vaclav. "Then suddenly, everyone says it was going to be Khall. I asked why, they all said don't worry about it. Khall does not talk to me. Nobody does. Why would I think I am not about to be betrayed?" "Why would you think anyone would keep Khall over you?" says Louie. "Everyone said he was impossible to work with." "Everyone was impossible to work with today!" Vaclav counters. "I cannot work with people who do not give me information." "I'll give you information," says Louie. "That's the one thing you can take away from this. If nobody else does, I still owe you for saving me." "Thank you," says Vaclav. "I owe you as well." //"I'm using the last vote where we both got targeted as reassurance," Louie explains. "If I can't keep him under my control, then I want him to at least have faith in me that I'll pay him back for saving my game."// //"Louie thinks he is the one in charge between us," says Vaclav. His hands are folded together, but they are clenched and slightly trembling. "I do not follow anyone, and I will do what it takes to show I am my own master. He will get my support if it works for me, but no time else."// Paula, meanwhile, has a quick conversation with Candace. "I felt sick doing that," says Paula. "Khall trusted me, but I hated the situation he put me in." Candace nods. "I appreciate you not going rogue, though. It just gives me a little more faith that our group can tough things out." "So, the plan's still the same for next time?" Paula asks. "Most likely," says Candace. "Rocky's the number one target. We could maybe switch it for Denine or Louie, though." "I'm trying to decide if it makes sense to keep Denine and Louie together, is all," Paula explains. "Yeah, I've heard those two are tight," says Candace. "Voting one out would make the other vengeful, but they can be more easily separated from Rocky than they can be from each other." "Denine admitted that she doesn't like him," says Paula. //"For all his faults, Rocky is cunning," says Candace. "I don't want to have to deal with him, but that doesn't mean we have to vote him out. We may be able to neutralize him by voting out one of his reluctant allies."// "But who between Denine and Louie is the better target?" Paula asks. "I don't know much at all about Louie." "I think probably Denine, she's the more vocal one," says Candace. "Plus, Louie and Rocky might turn on each other once she's gone." "Rocky was more ready to flip than Denine was," Paula adds. "I can buy that he's even more disloyal than she is." "I'm beginning to like this plan," says Candace. "I do sense a shift in Rocky's aura, so there may be a secret he's hiding from us. Do you think we can make him believe his back is against the wall and that any advantage is all he has?" Paula shakes her head. "I'm at a loss. I need to think about it." //"I thought we had agreed the question of the day was not who to vote out, but how," says Paula. "Candace's idea of voting out Denine is tempting, but what would have to change from what I had planned? There are quite a few minds to be made up, too, and I don't feel comfortable without a consensus."// $m[**Day 23**] It's early in the morning, and Jennifer is awake and exploring the camp alone. //"I figured I should get the jump on the others and look for anything that's been hidden here," she explains. "Now's about the right time for a merge advantage to start appearing, so I would love to get my hands on it and put myself in a position of power because of it. I'm taking this game back!"// As Jennifer is searching among the rocks and the undergrowth near camp, she mumbles to herself, trying to talk herself through the process of searching. She lifts leaves and lowers herself to the ground to see if anything pops out in the dirt. "It's not going to be just anywhere," she says to herself. She pulls her buff up to her forehead to keep sweat out of her eyes. Jennifer also looks among branches, and in tree trunks, but has no luck there either. Eventually, Jennifer decides to head back to camp to avoid suspicion when everyone else is just getting up. On the way back to the shelter, she notices a slight bulge in the fabric of the Ochalibas flag. She walks over, reaches her hand in between the sheets of fabric, and feels around until she grabs on to a folded piece of paper. She gently wriggles it out and stuffs it in her pocket. //"I found something!" Jennifer excitedly says to the camera, before opening up the piece of paper she found. She then reads it aloud. "Congratulations, you have found a hidden advantage. This allows you to steal a vote from another player at tribal council." She immediately grips the note tightly with a single hand. "Oh my god, oh my god, this is fantastic. I feel good about where I am right now, but who knows what the future holds? I'd rather be ready to make a quick turnaround than go down with an unwanted plan."// Jennifer rejoins the rest of the tribe to have a small portion of rice for breakfast. "I can't believe he's still here," Rhett mutters to her. "Khall had sided with Rocky before," Jennifer whispers. "It's almost the same." "I know... but just look at him," Rhett whispers back. Rocky stares Rhett right in the eyes, and snarls. //"Rhett is a waste of oxygen," says Rocky. "He does nothing but whine about how jealous he is of me or something. Well... I know it's not jealousy. But I'm sure his real reason makes even less sense. I flat out don't care for anything he has to say."// "The way that a young, athletic person like Rocky is so meticulous with the way he eats his rice..." Rhett mumbles. "It's our most reliable source of nutrition out here, and he treats it with such ill regard. I just don't get it..." "He won't be so careful with his food in the jury house," Jennifer mutters. "That's the thing. It might not be that simple," Rhett explains. "He did poorly in the last challenge, but the Survivor challenges often rely on a lot of different abilities. They must have gotten the least Rocky-friendly challenge out of the way while he still could easily escape the vote. The smaller this group gets, the more easily Rocky will be able to win his way to the end. And immunity beasts are exactly what the network wants. We won't be able to stop him." "There's nothing we can do but wait," says Jennifer. "Hey, Jennifer," Rocky calls out. "You got something you want to share with the class?" "If we can't have a private conversation without you sticking your smelly mug into it," says Jennifer, "then we'll have it right in front of you. What are you going to do about it?" "That's no way to win friends," says Rocky. "I don't need friends, I need immunity and a cheeseburger," Jennifer snaps. Louie nudges Denine. "I think we should test that theory. Tell Vaclav that we want Rhett out next." "Why do I have to do it?" Denine asks. "We need him to trust you," Louie replies quietly. //"If Denine and Vaclav are seen together, then I can better hide the fact that I'm the one holding them together," says Louie. "Both of them are still connected to me, and Rocky is the distraction for all three of us. I'm keeping my head down so nobody can see me try to pull the strings."// Jennifer puts one hand on Rhett's shoulder and whispers in his ear. "Stay calm, don't move a muscle. I found an advantage this morning." Rhett bites his lip, struggling to hide his relief. He then turns back to whisper something to Jennifer. "Good. We can't let it fall into the hands of Rocky or one of his goons." Jennifer nods very minutely so only Rhett can see. //"Louie is clearly in on whatever Rocky's scheme is, that much is clear to me," says Rhett. "He admitted it last night. I know Denine has a strong intellect, but I fear she will use it for selfish gain as well. The merge has given that forsaken trio more confidence and power, and it is only a matter of time until Vincent steps in to stack the deck in their favour."// The thinner of Rocky's goons taps Vaclav on the shoulder, and the two get up and leave together to talk in private. "Louie wanted me to tell you who he wanted out next," Denine explains. "Jennifer and Rhett are, clearly, the ones who dislike Rocky most. You saw how Jennifer talked to him two votes ago. So, he wants to split those two up to keep his meat shield intact." "Which one does he want out?" Vaclav asks. "He said Rhett," says Denine. Vaclav nods. "So, you say he wants to kill the alliance." "Clearly." //"Rhett thinks this game is a one man show, the Rocky Show. That is not true," says Vaclav. "And if I need to work with Rocky, and Rhett is in the game, I look like the bad guy. I do not want to look like the bad guy!"// "It would be easier to just go with the plan and vote Rocky," Vaclav says. "Then we will not have to hear about him anymore." "That's a last resort," Denine says quickly. "If we have a choice, one of Rhett or Jennifer needs to go. Our respect is at stake. If they manage to poison the others' minds, then we'll be branded goats no matter what we do." "So, you would rather be able to use Rocky," says Vaclav. "He might as well be of some worth to us, right?" Denine shrugs. //"I remember way back, more than a week ago, when Jennifer and Rhett told us we would work together and then they brilliantly shut me and Louie out of their clique," says Denine. "Well, payback's a bitch. I have nothing to lose by taking those two down. I'd love to take them out and flush Rocky's stupid idol at the same time, but they can happen at different speeds, I'm not in a hurry."// Later in the day, Buddy pulls Rocky aside to have a short conversation. "Look, Rocky," says Buddy, "I know we don't really have the best history." "What's your point?" Rocky asks, genuinely curious. "After last night, it's clear to me that just throwing your name out isn't going to do anyone good," Buddy explains. "I have other people in mind that I'd rather focus my efforts on." "You aren't begging for my help, are you?" Rocky replies. "Because I have a plan beyond just scrambling, and I intend to stick to it." "I doubt it," says Buddy, "and I don't really need your help either. Here's the thing, though. I know Jennifer hates your guts, and Rhett hates your guts, whatever. Those two I have connections with. I can keep them off your back if you keep your allies off mine." "See, now things are starting to get interesting," says Rocky. "You all are starting to realize I'm not playing around. Well, rest assured, Buddy-boy, I'm not even thinking of voting you out." "You helped swing the vote to save me way back when I was first vulnerable," Buddy explains. "Consider this paying you back. And let me know if you need a number." //"I want Rocky to know my allies don't speak for me," says Buddy. "So, I'm extending an olive branch of sorts. I'll try to take the heat off him if he lets me pick off his allies. If that doesn't happen, then we take him out and I tell him there's nothing I could have done."// [[Day 24<-Read Day 24]]

**Day 24 Reward Challenge** The ten contestants are standing on the tribe mat, which was now twenty meters away from a staircase leading up a hill. $v["Your next challenge will be a team challenge,"] Vincent explains. $v["You will compete in two groups of five. One at a time, you will send a member up these steps into an abandoned hilltop village. You will have to find a puzzle piece in either] $q[indigo] $v[or] $c[pink]$v[, and bring it down the steps. Once all five of you have brought down your puzzle pieces, you will race to assemble them into the shape of a cube. There is only one correct solution. First group to assemble a cube wins reward. Want to know what you're playing for? ... An afternoon on a jungle cruise, in this little pocket of the Amazon rainforest. On a speedboat! We'll draw for spots, and let's get started."] $c[Pink team:] Buddy, Denine, Jennifer, Louie, Rhett $q[Indigo team:] Ashleia, Candace, Paula, Rocky, Vaclav Louie and Paula are the first to go for their puzzle pieces. Paula comes down long before Louie does. Next for the indigo team is Candace. Louie comes down with a piece, and the next to go is Denine. Candace brings down a puzzle piece, and Rocky goes next. Denine comes back down with a piece, visibly pale. "That was really freaky," she mumbles. "Nobody cares, let's go!" Rhett sprints up the staircase. Rocky and Rhett come down with pieces at around the same time. The next to go are Vaclav and Jennifer, with Jennifer putting more distance between them with each step. Jennifer later comes down with her piece, and tags Buddy in. Vaclav brings down a puzzle piece, and Ashleia is the last to go up the steps. "This feels really wrong," says Vaclav to his group. "I do not think we should be up there." "I did sense a lingering spirit of suffering and illness," says Candace. Rocky scoffs. "Don't get your panties in a twist, we'll be fine." The next one to come down with their team's final puzzle piece is Buddy. "Okay, I definitely saw some human remains in one of those huts," he says, gripping his puzzle piece tightly in his arms. Louie yanks it out of Buddy's grip and throws it with the rest of them. "No time to talk, we gotta hustle on the puzzle." The pink tribe gets to work. A few minutes later, Ashleia comes down with the indigo team's last piece. "Like, you are not going to believe what I found up there." She drops her puzzle piece and holds up an ornate golden bracelet, studded with gemstones and amber. "Isn't this the most glamourous thing ever, Paula?" Candace's eyes go wide. "Where did you get that!?" "When I was looking for the puzzle piece," says Ashleia. "You don't know what's on that thing," Candace tells her. "Could be soot, or blood... a centuries-old curse..." $v["Louie, Denine, Buddy, Rhett, and Jennifer win reward!"] "Gee, thanks, guys!" Rocky crosses his arms. "We could have won that if you weren't girling out over some stupid gold bracelet!" "Rocky, just be quiet for once!" Vaclav snaps. **Reward – Speedboat Ride** As the boat begins to drive off, the five challenge winners look around and admire the view. "It's definitely a lot nicer looking from this boat," says Buddy. "I agree," says Rhett. "The boat gives the psychological bubble of protection we don't have back at camp." "Until we hit a rock," says Louie. Rhett looks at Louie and frowns. "Do you ever... enjoy... anything?" //"I appreciate this reward," says Rhett. "A change of environment is always welcomed, especially one away from you know who. But there was another benefit to this trip as well."// "Whoa, lit!" Denine exclaims as she opens up a cooler sitting at their feet. "We got beer!" "Now this I can get behind," says Jennifer, as she and Denine each grab a bottle. "Eh, why not." Buddy takes a bottle as well. While he and Jennifer start with a sip, Denine drinks a third of the bottle in a single gulp. "Not going to join the party?" Louie asks Rhett. Rhett shakes his head. "Not out here. I cannot be certain that this is not a trap of some kind." "And just after you were calling me a killjoy," says Louie. "Maybe you have a point," Rhett replies, "this time." //"You know what kind of reward I would really enjoy?" Louie asks rhetorically. "A chance to brush my teeth. I'm not in the mood to drink, I have enough of a paunch as is, and there's nothing I'm actively trying to forget."// It did not take long before Louie and Rhett had shuffled to one end of the boat, while Buddy, Denine, and Jennifer shuffled to the end with the beer cooler. "Is that, like, your third bottle?" Buddy asks Denine. Denine shakes her head. "Nah, number two. I'll leave one in case either of those two changes their mind and wants to loosen up." "You're going to be so trashed tomorrow," says Buddy. "Nah, it's worth it!" Denine exclaims. "You think I'm going to win immunity anyways? I just want to kick back right now." "And not have to worry about Rocky," Jennifer adds. "Truuuuue! Cheers to that!" Denine clinks bottles with Jennifer. //"I wanted to see if Denine would loosen up enough to talk to me," Jennifer explains. "Maybe alcohol is her weakness, and I can use that to flip her."// "Why don't we just get rid of him?" Jennifer asks. "Like, we can totally do it. The five of us on this boat can take control of the game. We dominate the others in challenges." "Bitch, why you wanna talk about that right now?" Denine snaps. "Because he's not here," says Jennifer. "You're not doing yourself any favours by hanging on to him and acting like he won't screw you over." "Jennifer," says Buddy, "I think she really doesn't want to talk about it." "Yeah, listen to Buddy!" says Denine. "I don't have this in my hand because I'm out here trying to strategize." Jennifer looks displeased. "You can't do this and then claim we're treating you unfairly." "Well, you're not my mom," says Denine. //"Should I turn on Rocky? Maybe I will, maybe I won't," Denine explains. Her hair is more unkempt than usual. "But Jen. Really. She was going back to her old bossy self, the way that made me jump ship before, and if she can't see that's why I was trying to drown her out, that's her own damn fault."// "She has a point," says Rhett to Louie. "You should rethink your stance on-" "Rhett, I will throw you overboard and feed you to the gators." Rhett blinks. "A simple 'no' would suffice." "Knowing you," says Louie, "it probably would not." $m[**Ochalibas**] Ashleia, Candace, Paula, Rocky, and Vaclav sit near the fire after returning from the challenge. "Talk about déjà vu," says Paula. "Splitting that group up was kind of why I liked having the swap so much." "It's incredible how much teamwork they can have despite all their fighting," says Ashleia in agreement. "It blows major chunks," says Rocky. "But they can't work together for immunity." "Well, then what's the issue?" Candace asks. "They keep going on rewards, come back feeling great, then they kick our asses," Rocky explains. "Those five may hate each other, but they're not saying one of them needs to go." Ashleia raises her index finger to get the others' attention. "I get it! So, like, they said to vote you, and then changed their minds to Khall. But they never said to vote one of their own out." "And it was your idea to vote Louie out when we swapped," says Vaclav. "Buddy was happy to vote me out before you brought that up." "And Jennifer insisted that Rocky was the real target and not Denine," adds Paula. "Oh my god," says Candace. "They've //all// been playing us." //"I don't know if the Chalpe conspiracy is true," says Rocky, "but it's really convenient to get people off my back! I'm going to keep milking this all I can so I can get rid of the two old Chalpe members that just won't stop obsessing over me. Time to get to work on putting that plan into action."// Candace, Ashleia, and Vaclav agree to meet up by themselves later in the day. "So, what do you think about what Rocky said?" Vaclav asks. "Does it make sense to you?" "The frustrating thing is the messenger," says Candace. "His essence of malice is still present." "But, like, do you want to be known as 'the pure-hearted early juror'?" Ashleia asks. "Like, we have to consider it. We don't know what they're talking about on the boat." "Which is why I say we should go with him." Candace takes a deep breath. "Maybe I am merely registering a false positive, after all. But we can't let them know." "So we, like, just don't vote him but don't tell the others?" asks Ashleia again. "Or just convince our own alliances that it's the wrong move," Candace replies. "Rocky has his pals, we have our own. If we can steer it towards being between two of them, then they have no choice but to either break themselves up or prove Rocky's theory right." "Well I'm not going to say this was Rocky's idea," says Ashleia. "He kind of needs us for this to work." //"I'm, like, really glad I have Candace's trust now." Ashleia fiddles with her new bracelet. "We have a plan coming together, so I'm not as worried about being ignored or disrespected."// "Now the issue is, you might want to vote out one person," says Vaclav, "but Rocky will have another idea." "He's right, we have to make sure we're the ones who get our target out," says Candace. "It would maybe be Louie, again," says Ashleia. "Since he's working with Rocky." "So is Denine," Vaclav adds. "If we vote one of them out, then Rocky will flip to take the other out." //"Rocky's case makes sense," says Candace, "but what if we're all wrong? Then it's back to what it was before, so the only way to be safe is to vote against someone who's not part of either of our plans. And right now, that's Denine and Louie. There's not any doubt in my mind anymore that one of them needs to go."// Meanwhile, Rocky is chatting with Paula. "Now, you know I wouldn't drop a bombshell like that without a plan, right?" Rocky smirks. Paula shuffles in place, but says nothing. "Alright, so here's what I'm thinking," says Rocky. "You and Vaclav flip and vote Rhett out." "I don't know if I should drop everything to work with the person who tried to get me out two rounds ago," Paula replies. "In my mind, either he or Jennifer has to go, immediately," says Rocky. "Now, Jennifer is your friend, and I'm sure she'd be grateful if you convinced me not to get her out." "Are you blackmailing me?" Paula asks softly. "I wouldn't call it that," says Rocky, "it's more like-" "Because you don't need to do that." //"I don't let big personalities scare me or boss me around," says Paula. "I may not be the angriest or the loudest, but I trust myself enough to know what's right. If I make a decision, it's usually because I've weighed all my options and how they'll help myself and others."// "I won't let you intimidate me into playing your game," Paula tells Rocky. "But that does not mean I refuse to speak with you. Why else should I vote Rhett out?" Rocky is taken aback, but he takes a deep breath and continues. "If we want to break up Chalpe and make sure they aren't in a secret pact, one of them has to go right now. You like Jennifer, and she might get pissed if you vote Buddy out. Denine can't do jack to you so she's no threat while I'm here, and Louie is kind of a joke." "So that leaves Rhett as the only option," says Paula. "Exactly," says Rocky. "If I'm gone, do you know what Rhett is going to do? Of course not. I'm all he talks about. He's a bright guy... apparently. Do you really want to be unprepared for whatever he's hiding?" "There's one problem," says Paula. "You don't have the numbers. You'll need to prove that you're not getting me to just throw my vote away, then we'll talk." "Y'know, you drive a hard bargain." Rocky smiles. "I like that." "Neat." Paula replies flatly. //"I think I have the fifth vote I need, now," says Rocky. "Assuming that my new allies are actually any good and can get Vaclav to vote with us. Now all I need is for nobody to be willing to save that trainwreck in a tie."// Later in the evening, when the rest of the tribe returns from reward, only Vaclav is at camp waiting for them. "Hey, Vaclav, how was being a loser?" Denine asks. She has one arm draped behind Louie's neck, her hand resting just below his shoulder. "Your breath stinks of alcohol," says Vaclav. "Some of us partook," says Jennifer. She shrugs. "Those of us that had to be on a tribe with Rocky needed to relax." "She is so hard done by," Louie whispers to Buddy. "Then you should be calling it a night soon," says Vaclav. "We have a challenge tomorrow." "Why, so you can sneak off and find another idol?" Rhett asks. "Wh-what does that have to do with it?" Vaclav exclaims. "You admit it, then," says Rhett. "Probably waiting for the camera crew to plant it somewhere people have already looked." "I think you need the sleep most of all," Vaclav replies. "Not a chance. I'll be watching you like a hawk." Rhett says, coldly looking Vaclav right in the eyes. //Vaclav scratches his head. "Did I miss something?"// [[Day 25<-Read Day 25]]

**Day 25 Immunity Challenge** The ten members of the merged tribe arrive in the regular challenge area, where Vincent is waiting for them. $v["Time for your next immunity challenge. But first, Candace, I'll need that necklace back."] Candace sighs and lets Vincent take the immunity necklace off of her, and Vincent places it on a display. $v["Once again, immunity is back up for grabs. For today's challenge, each of you will have to pull on a rope to keep an unbalanced tabletop level. At the other end of the rope is a stand with six letter blocks, you must bring them one at a time to your table and stack them, so they spell the word "SAFETY". If your table tips and any blocks to fall off, you must start over. Once you stack all six blocks, you must move back until your feet are next to the stand. First person to do so wins immunity. Losers, tribal council where one of you will be voted out. We'll draw for spots, then let's get started."] The scene changes to all ten players at their stations, standing in front of their tabletops and not holding the ropes. $v["Alright. For immunity, survivors ready... GO!"] Everyone grabs onto their ropes and begins moving backwards to get their first block. Without anything to balance, nobody has any difficulty getting the Y block and bringing it to their table. When moving backwards to get the T block, some contestants start to struggle. Buddy moves too fast and his table tips, Louie trips and lets go of his rope, and when Candace reaches for her second block, she leans too far and pulls the rope too hard. Rocky and Jennifer quickly emerge as the forerunners in the challenge, as the others are either slower or keep tilting their tabletop and having to re-stack. Once Rocky and Jennifer had stacked four blocks and were going for their fifth, only Paula and Vaclav had managed to keep three blocks steady. Rocky notices that he is still at the same pace as Jennifer, so he takes a large step back to try and gain a few seconds on her. Once he stabilizes, almost all of the lead he created has disappeared. Rocky and Jennifer stack their fifth block at roughly the same time, and while Paula approaches with her fourth block, Vaclav's block stack topples, making him have to put his fourth block back before re-stacking. Upon taking their sixth and final blocks, Jennifer and Rocky slow down considerably. Rocky is focused on his own tabletop, while Jennifer sometimes glances over at Rocky. Eventually, Rocky catches Jennifer looking at him. He turns right back to his own challenge station, but says "What's your major malfunction, Jen? Can't a guy work in peace?" "You only seem to care about peace when you're in danger," says Jennifer. "Of course, I'm in danger," Rocky replies. "I'm so close to winning, but at any point I could just **CHOKE!!**" Several of the jumpier competitors lose their focus and their block stacks fall. Including Jennifer's. "You piece of shit," Jennifer mutters. As Jennifer works to restack her tower, Paula catches up with her, and Rocky inches towards the finish. In the end, Rocky plants both feet beside his block stand, with Paula in a distant second. $v["Rocky wins immunity!"] "Boo-yah!" Rocky cheers, as he lets go of his rope and his completed tower spelling SAFETY collapses. "I'm untouchable, baby! Suck it!" Vincent calls Rocky over to him and places the immunity necklace around his neck. $v["Congratulations, Rocky, you have won immunity and secured yourself a spot in the final nine."] Rocky beams with happiness as he adjusts the immunity necklace. Nobody else is particularly happy for him. $v["The rest of you will see me at tribal council tonight, where another one of you will be voted out of the game. Head back to camp."] $m[**Ochalibas**] //"This was not supposed to happen," says Rhett. "Of all the people in this game who are shady and untrustworthy, Rocky continues to be among them! I have been forced to execute the next part of my plan prematurely."// Rhett, Jennifer, Paula, and Candace are standing together discussing what to do. "It looks like our only option is Denine or Louie," says Candace. "Do you have any preferences between those two?" "I say Denine," says Paula. "Louie won't win immunity. Denine might." "I think Louie," says Rhett. "Louie seems to take glee in working against the common good, while Denine simply appears to be misguided." "Well, I'm honestly down for whatever you all agree on," says Jennifer. "Neither is really any better to me, or to us as a group." //"I was one hundred percent set on taking Rocky out, finally," says Jennifer. "But now that he has immunity, I'm stuck sitting here going 'uhh I don't know'. My two backups are both equally untrustworthy!"// Rocky walks up to the group, chewing on a fruit. "So, what's up, guys? Seen anything cool recently?" "Shut up, Rocky," Jennifer snaps. "We're trying to figure out who we're voting tonight, and you know that." "Ah, right," says Rocky. "I forgot. You know, because I'm safe tonight and everything." "Rub it in some more, I dare you," says Jennifer. Rocky steps towards Jennifer. "You wanted me out, and then you flopped at immunity and now you don't know what to do!" He smirks. "Not like you would have, anyways. You'd have found a way to backstab someone instead. That's kind of your thing, isn't it?" "No, because unlike you," Jennifer says with a scowl, "I don't play around with people." "You played around with Denine by telling her you wanted to work with her," says Rocky. "Then you threw her under the bus because you wanted total control and she wouldn't give it up. Just like you stabbed Khall after he turned on his alliance FOR YOU." "That was a group decision! I couldn't trust him!" "Hey, it can't be a group decision AND your decision!" Rocky snaps. "You gotta pick one!" "Can we not do this right now!?" Candace interjects, stepping between them. "Rocky, get lost. Jennifer, just take a deep breath, and-" "No! It's about time someone gave him a word or two!" Jennifer protests. //"It was all happening in slow motion," says Candace. "And not in the tranquil, bass reverb way. It was like watching someone swerve into a tree, and they can't hear you calling out to them. But I tried the best I could."// "Let him have it," says Rhett with a stone-cold expression. "No, you're better than this," Candace pleads. "Better than what? Than //me?//" Rocky asks, mockingly. He steps around Candace, and stares right at Jennifer. "You're not. You're just as guilty as I am, sweetheart. You're just as callous and tough as me, and you simply hate that maybe you've met your match." Jennifer responds by stepping towards Rocky herself and spitting directly onto his chest. In response, Rocky bares his teeth and makes an aggressive scowl, but remains quiet. "I have friends, Rocky," Jennifer replies coldly. "And I have honour. Maybe we'll be equals if you ever decide to grow up." She steps back. Rocky shakes his head, his scowl fading, and walks away. Paula, Candace, and Rhett simply look at Jennifer with bewilderment. //"If Rocky wants to be all smug about winning, then he needs to be put in his place," says Jennifer. "If nothing else, then he should think twice next time before antagonizing someone. He picked the wrong person to mess with... not only can I fight back, but I can win."// Ashleia, Buddy, and Vaclav are sitting in the shelter discussing the vote. "It looks like it's going to be between Denine and Louie tonight," says Ashleia. "Like, that's what the others are all saying. We wanted to do that anyways, right?" Vaclav nods. "It makes sense. Buddy... who would you rather vote out? I could vote for either person." "I don't know. I'm leaning towards Louie because he's lazy. The smaller this group gets, the more we have to do to keep ourselves healthy and safe. Louie freely admits he won't help us with that." "But there is another thing we should remember," says Ashleia. "We do still have an alliance of sorts with Louie. If Denine and Rocky are gone, he could come back to us. Denine is not going to do the same thing, right?" "Would Louie even do that? I have trouble believing it," Buddy replies. "Vaclav, you worked with him before. Where do you stand with him?" "He... really was happy to see Denine again," says Vaclav. "He wants me to work with her, too. If we have to vote one out, in the end they will both be upset." //"I was hoping Rocky would not win," Vaclav admits. "That way, people would want to vote him out, and I would not be asked whether I prefer Denine or Louie. I have an answer; I trust Louie more. But giving the answer would make me look like I am loyal to Louie, and not to them. Then they would vote me out for sure!"// Later on, Paula meets up with Louie to hear his pitch. "Thanks for coming," says Louie. "Excuse the others – Rocky is moping about, Denine is probably doing her hair, and the townspeople say Vaclav is searching for Bigfoot." "You're in a light-hearted mood for someone on the block," says Paula. "But Rocky gave me a pitch the other day. Are you two on the same page?" "I hope so, or he's getting a nasty surprise next time," Louie answers. "Rhett is a pain in the ass. He and Jennifer. One of those two has to go, and I'm willing to bet you would say no if I said we're voting Jennifer." "Probably," says Paula. "You're saying you have Denine and Vaclav in on it too?" "I should," says Louie. "The three of us know we're on the bottom with Rocky safe. We're not turning on each other. Now the ball's in your court... do you want to have half the jury bitter at you for dooming them?" "I'll make an enemy either way I turn tonight," says Paula. "I need to think about who I want out tonight." "Fine, be evasive," says Louie. "Well, for the record," Paula replies, "tonight people aren't sure. It's up in the air. But I'm not going to put your name down tonight, no matter what the others tell me. Take that as you will." //"I would really rather want Denine out over Louie," says Paula, "but I don't think I can push everyone to go against her. It seems like it's up to what Candace and Jennifer want. Vaclav as well, since he could go any which way. But majority or not, tonight is when I have to decide where in this tribe I end up."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The ten-strong Ochalibas tribe walks into the tribal council building with lit torches. They all place the torches behind their seats, then sit down. $v["Welcome back," says Vincent. "Rocky, you have been put in the hot seat repeatedly. Would tonight have been another of those times had you not won immunity?"] Rocky nods. "It was clear that this was the worst-case scenario for everyone except me. It really sucks. But now there's no safe bet for the others, so maybe something is bound to change tonight." $v["Ashleia, is Rocky right? Were you really blindsided by his win, or was there something else in the works from the start?"] "It's kind of both," says Ashleia. "There's now a majority and a minority, and Rocky was just not part of the majority. We aren't coming in here with no idea how the vote will go down." "Then mind enlightening the rest of us?" Denine asks. "Uhh, yeah I do mind," says Ashleia. "It's, like, none of your business?" "If it involves me possibly getting voted out, then it's totally my business," Denine replies. $v["Denine, you see yourself as being in danger?"] "Of course. Jennifer and Paula have it out for me because of what happened at the swap." "I don't have it out for you, Denine, I never did," Jennifer replies. "Suuuuuuuure." Denine rolls her eyes. "You have it out for everyone who crosses you in some way." "You flat out blew me off," says Jennifer. "How was I supposed to trust you when I had four people saying they would actually listen to me?" "If Khall listened to you, then why did you vote him out?" Denine replies. "He was unpredictable," Jennifer counters. "...Fine." Denine crosses her arms. "In that case, that was my reasoning as well." $v["Candace, does it make sense to say that history is more important than potential tonight?"] "It seems to be that way," says Candace. "The people we've been considering voting out are ones that have isolated themselves from the tribe emotionally. Denine and Louie are a pair at the expense of the rest of us, so we are struggling to really parse between them." $v["Vaclav, is it up in the air between those two for everyone?"] "Some of us have an idea of who we would rather go home," says Vaclav. "We cannot vote them both out tonight, so a choice has to be made. It would be naïve to assume they will act the exact same as each other if one is voted out." $v["Louie, this is definitely not good news for you and Denine."] "I expected it," says Louie. "I don't have the best reputation, neither does she. But there's always the option to keep us both. You'll be able to save two people at once, and we won't hold anything against someone who does just that." "It will also show like you aren't like the rest of your allies," Denine adds, "and that you're playing your own game. If you want to make the end with an agenda only you can take credit for, you don't want to be the one who missed their shot." $v["Rocky, with all this unfolding because you're immune, do you think it's better to stand in solidarity with them, or take the chance to earn back the trust and respect of your peers back?"] "The latter isn't happening tonight of all nights, especially not from Jennifer," says Rocky. "If anything, I'm just going to go against whatever she does since she horked a big one on me." "Excuse me," says Paula, "but what exactly does 'horked a big one' mean?" "She spat right on my chest, soiling my second favourite shirt," Rocky replies. Buddy's eyes go wide open. "She what?" "He's right," says Rhett. "It was unexpected." $v["Jennifer. Am I hearing this correctly? You spat directly on Rocky?"] "He was rubbing his immunity in my face, and he was trying to badmouth me in front of my own allies," Jennifer explains. "I couldn't stand for that." Rocky's expression turns sullen, much to the surprise of Denine. "I mean, we were all thinking it," says Buddy. "But it's another thing to do it." "It seems to have shut him up tonight for the most part," says Jennifer. "Maybe he'll learn something from this so we can all put this stupid back-and-forth behind us. Rocky, just admit you were being a tool and we'll stop treating you like one." Rocky looks over at Jennifer. "You don't control me. You don't control anyone else here, either. I'm not going to kneel before you so that you come out of this looking good." "Well, I gave you a chance." Jennifer flips her hair. Rocky rests his elbow on one leg and presses his fist against the side of his face. He quietly sighs and rolls his eyes. $v["And with that in mind, it sounds like we are ready to vote."] Vincent crosses his arms. $v["But not tonight."] "That's a bummer," says Denine, suddenly grinning from ear to ear. $v["In light of the circumstances, and what has been revealed to me tonight, I am stepping in and cancelling tribal council."] Everyone looks on, all looking confused or worried except for Denine and Louie. $v["**Jennifer**. What you admitted to tonight counts as an assault against another competitor."] Jennifer looks stunned. "That's total bullshit! People have done worse on this series, and he was the one who instigated it!" "I warned you to step back and not escalate it, Jen," says Candace. "I hardly escalated!" Jennifer exclaims. "Rhett, back me up here!" Rhett looks upset. "I have my suspicions about this sudden ruling, but you made a decision, and these are apparently the consequences." $v["Don't try to claim there's a precedent, Jennifer,"] says Vincent sternly. $v["Since I have taken over, I have refused to tolerate violence, and you cannot claim you acted in self-defence. Bring me your torch."] Jennifer's expression turns sour. She gets up slowly to retrieve her torch, fumbles a bit with the torches, and then brings hers to Vincent. The other competitors are silent. Vincent snuffs Jennifer's torch. $v["Thank you. Time for you to head out."] Jennifer shakes her head. "Fuck you, Rocky," she mutters as she walks out. Vincent turns to the final nine. $v["In this game, you have to adapt to whatever is thrown at you. It took only one mistake at the challenge to ruin Jennifer's plan today, and she could not come back from that. Let's hope you all can adapt better than she could. You can head back to camp."] $m[//"I didn't think it would end this way, but I didn't think I would meet someone like Rocky," Jennifer confesses. "Your physical, mental, and emotional capabilities are put to the test out here, and I hit a breaking point. I may have lost, but I still have my passion. I'm sitting here with more integrity than some people still in this game have ever had. Now hopefully Rhett can put the vote steal I wedged in his torch to good use."//] ''Jennifer - Disqualified'' [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 25 Ochalibas**] "Holy cow! Did that just happen?" Denine says when the merged tribe arrives back at camp. "I don't know about you, but it caught me off guard," says Paula. "I didn't think Jennifer would do something like that." "I'm a little glad it's over with," says Rocky. //"I was hoping to vote Rhett out tonight, but this works," Rocky explains. "Jennifer was also on my list, and now she's canned like tomato soup. So, I'm thinking... what if I lay low again? The silence will eat at the others like crazy, and I need them to turn on each other."// "I think it's a bit suspicious that all of a sudden, the rules start being enforced. This wasn't the first time things have gotten physical out here," says Rhett. "It's not our call to make," Ashleia replies. "I know you were close to her," Vaclav adds, "but did you not say that there would be consequences?" "I thought this was a free country," says Rhett. "I can point out injustices where I see them. I'm not convinced Jennifer was removed from the game just for spitting." "It was a direct hit," Rocky complains. "The production team must have realized she knew something they didn't want her to know," Rhett continues. "It only makes sense that the normally jovial Vincent Boucher would become hostile when the integrity of whatever his grand scheme is was in jeopardy." "Oh my god," says Louie, "put a cork in it." //"It's up to me to find the truth and get the word out," says Rhett. "That tribal council was a kangaroo court, and Jennifer was guilty the moment she stepped in! And because I know there is something afoot, there are other contestants trying to censor me. You are the only one left who dares to protect my right as an American to free speech, Skippy!"// $m[**Day 26**] Louie and Denine head off to the river shore early in the morning, with the pretense of going fishing. "We should maybe thank Jennifer for taking herself out for us," says Louie. "It would have been an uphill battle to flip things against her, and she was more threatening than Rhett is." "The only thing is, Rhett is still guaranteed to never side with us ever," says Denine. "He has to go next," Louie replies. "The annoying thing is we don't know who is going to flip. Last night was supposed to be when we found out." "Vaclav is still our best bet," says Denine. "Then we can see who either wants to pad out their resume, or who wants to be Vaclav's friend." //"I know nobody wants to go to rocks for me and Louie right now," says Denine. "So, if anything, it may be a blessing in disguise that we didn't vote last time. Now we have nine in the game, and only five for the majority. Assuming we still have Vaclav and Rocky, we just need one more to flip, so we need to pick our target carefully."// Vaclav and Paula go for a walk later in the morning to strategize. "So, were you up to vote with those guys last time?" Paula asks. "I was on the fence all night, and it was almost a relief that we didn't vote." "Even though Jennifer is no longer here?" Vaclav asks, surprised. "Yeah, I'm bummed about it," says Paula, "but there's no time to mourn. You can't let every little loss get in your head." Vaclav nods somberly. "And now we have another option," Paula continues. "Jennifer wouldn't want us to do this, but we could flip to Rocky's side. The three of us... we could go far." //"I would like to get closer to Vaclav, because right now the two of us are in a swing vote position," says Paula. "The people on the bottom want us to flip, which could be a good way to take out Rhett, Ashleia, and Candace. But then I'd need to find a way to keep Buddy safe, and I don't trust Denine and Louie to help me."// "But I am not sure about that," says Vaclav. "We could go far, but we could also not go far. Denine and Louie do not like Rocky, and if we are friends with Rocky instead of them, they will turn on us." "There's also the option of flipping back and taking them out afterwards," says Paula. "So, we would be loyal to nobody," Vaclav replies. "I guess keeping your friends and your enemies closer?" "I'm surprised people still say that," says Paula. "It always strikes me as a way to save face. I suppose if you want to put it like that, then that's what we would be doing." "I think you make a good point," Vaclav tells Paula, "but I am not yet ready to say what we should do. We should maybe wait and see who else we can talk to." "Alright," says Paula. "And if you get cold feet, go ahead and tell me. I'm not going to try and flip the game upside down if you aren't ready." Vaclav smiles, until Paula turns her head the other way, then his expression becomes a nervous one. //"Paula is suggesting we play in the middle," says Vaclav, "so we work both with Ashleia's alliance, and with Rocky's alliance. I suppose that can happen, but does that mean I am working with Paula and nobody else?"// Candace and Ashleia have their own chat in the woods just behind the shelter. "Listen, Ashleia, I think we need to keep our focus on voting out Rocky," Candace explains. "It was unfortunate to lose Jennifer, especially after seeing how close she was to winning immunity. Now that she's gone, that's one less person in the way of Rocky going on a winning streak." Ashleia rubs her chin. "Again? I mean, I know we all want to do it at this point, but isn't that just what everyone else wants us to do? There are at least, like, two idols out there." "Here's the thing," says Candace. "I doubt that Rocky would play an idol on anyone besides himself, so really we just need to convince him he's not our target." "With Rhett around?" Ashleia raises an eyebrow. "We still have the numbers without Rhett, and they know that," Candace replies. "Us, Buddy, Paula, and Vaclav control the vote if we stick together. We can vote any of them out 5-3-1. Hell, we can even split the vote between Rocky and Louie or Denine 3-3-3." //"This is not about the kind of energy that each person here emits," says Candace, "this is just common sense. Rocky isn't going to side with us any time soon, and he is a big physical threat. We have to vote him out as soon as possible."// "But if Rocky wins immunity... what do we do?" Ashleia asks. "We vote Denine or Louie," says Candace. "We need to keep as many people who will vote him out as possible." "So... is there really any difference whether we keep Rocky or not?" Ashleia asks again. "I'm just saying, like, if they're a group then either way they go from three to two." "Okay, but who do we actually vote out instead of Rocky?" "Um... I'm not sure," says Ashleia. "I mean, Louie flipped on us so it's not like we have a better bond with him. He and Denine are kind of the same." "And Rocky is more dangerous than both of them." Candace places her hands on her hips. "Ash, I just don't see any reason to change my mind. If Denine and Louie are equally not threatening, then Rocky is the one who needs to go." "What if I can find a reason one should leave instead of the other?" Ashleia asks. Candace smirks. "No offense, girl, but... good luck." //"We have tried so many times to vote Rocky out," says Ashleia, "that it's not even funny. I'm totes down to do something else. If we keep voting the same person then they will see it coming. I don't know where the idols are, and that scares me, so I have to convince Candace and everyone else to vote my way and not split it."// Candace walks back onto the campsite, passing by Buddy and Rhett who are tending the fire. "I'm still in shock about the whole thing with Jennifer last night," says Buddy. "Should I be? Am I over-reacting?" "It's a perfectly legitimate reaction, if you ask me," replies Rhett. "I'm not forgetting the time I spent on the bottom of Chalpe," Buddy admits. "When I felt like it was everyone against me. When that's exactly what it was. But the two of you opened up, and I'm so glad you did." Rhett smiles. "I'm glad, too, especially right now. We need each other." //"Having a confidant in Buddy is especially important," says Rhett. "In a game where people seem willing enough to throw out a good deal, you need someone to be on your side, so you don't look expendable. Buddy, bless his heart, is the best I have left. I think he deserves to know what I've been mulling over."// "There was more going on last night than it appeared," says Rhett matter-of-factly. "Jennifer made a game-ending mistake, sure, but why do you think it was decreed to be game-ending?" "Because it said so in the rulebook?" Buddy asks. "Wrong," says Rhett. "Remember what I said about Vincent's hidden agenda? It's clear he has a stake in this competition that he hosts oh so impartially. And do you know whose name has come up every single vote?" "Vaclav?" Buddy asks. "Wrong again," says Rhett, "it's Rocky. He should be long gone by now. And yet, not only have Denine and Louie jumped ship from stable alliances to loyally serve him, Jennifer is not on the jury when she most likely would have been, had she not been unceremoniously removed." "I wonder if that means we'll have Khall on the jury," says Buddy. "Quite possibly, if Khall is involved in the scheme as well," Rhett replies. "Who knows? Maybe he was meant to be on the jury to support Rocky's path to victory, and this is just a move to further stack the deck in his favour." //"Dealing with Rhett is sort of a free association game," says Buddy. "Right now, it's our 26th day out here. There are 26 letters in the alphabet. What do we write the alphabet on? We write it on paper, and paper covers rock, and rocks are rocky, therefore the entire game is rigged for Rocky." Buddy shakes his head and shrugs. "Rhett has... completely fallen apart out here, and I don't know what I can do for him."// "You do realize that right now he doesn't have any opportunities to do something that will make anyone else vote for him," says Buddy. "Even Denine and Louie might not." "I've thought of that, too," says Rhett. "Well, you know what? Rocky is a skunk-like humanoid. What do skunks do when threatened? They spray. If he's ever in a situation he can't get out of through intimidation or bribery or what have you, then he'll contaminate everyone with a mind-altering superspray that will-" Buddy looks up to the sky. "Hey, is that a weather balloon?" Rhett's train of thought screeches to a halt. "Run for cover!" he yells, dropping his kindling and diving into a bush. //"This always happens before I can finish my explanations," says Rhett. "It's obvious that someone doesn’t want me getting the word out, and they want to discredit me and my findings. Once I can safely bring the truth – the whole truth – to light, then we will see who's really crazy. I have solid evidence on my side!"// [[Day 27<-Read Day 27]]

**Day 27 Reward Challenge** The nine contestants arrive at the regular challenge area with some of their belongings. $v["Welcome back,"] says Vincent. $v["Your reward challenge today will test your knowledge of the environment you've become acquainted with over the past four weeks. I will ask each of you a question, and you will hold up a letter card that corresponds to the right answer. If you get a correct answer, you can cut a rope that suspends a twenty-kilogram weight above a papier-mâché skull with your names on it. To clarify, your goal is to cut other people's ropes, because if all three of your ropes are cut, you're out of the challenge. The last two people standing win reward, and the winner gets to choose one person to go with them. Take your spots, and let's get started."] $t[//Later//] $v["Everyone is set up, so we can begin,"] says Vincent. $v["This is your first question. If you're completely lost in the jungle, what is the best direction to travel? Show A for west, B for east, C for uphill, and D for downhill."] Everyone gives their answer as follows: **A**: **B**: **C**: Ashleia **D**: Buddy, Candace, Denine, Louie, Paula, Rhett, Rocky, Vaclav $v["D is correct. Downhill will lead you to a river or a valley, which is most likely to lead you towards civilization. Everyone except Ashleia, pick up your machete and cut a rope."] Louie goes first and takes a swipe at Buddy's rope. Buddy responds with a swipe at Louie's rope. Candace cuts one of Rocky's ropes, followed by Rhett, and finally Vaclav, sending a weight freefalling into the skull with Rocky's name on it. Rocky cuts one of Vaclav's ropes in retaliation for the final blow. Paula cuts one of Louie's ropes. Denine cuts one of Candace's ropes. $v["Alright. Rocky is out of the challenge. Louie is down to one rope, Buddy, Vaclav, and Candace each have two, and everyone else has three. Next question. Which one of the following fruits can be found in the Amazon rainforest? Show A for avocado, B for blackcurrants, C for cucumbers, or D for dates."] Everyone gives their answer as follows: **A**: Candace, Louie, Vaclav **B**: Buddy, Denine **C**: Ashleia, Paula, Rhett **D**: $v["C is correct. Cucumbers are native to the Amazon. Avocados are grown through much of Peru, but generally not where we are right now. Rhett, Ashleia, Paula, take your turns."] All three take turns cutting Denine's ropes until her skull is smashed. "I hate you all," Denine grumbles. $v["Next question. What is NOT a common symptom of altitude sickness? Show A for shivering, B for loss of appetite, C for rapid heart rate, or D for fatigue."] Everyone gives their answer as follows: **A**: Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, Louie, Paula **B**: Rhett **C**: Vaclav **D**: $v["A is correct. Shivering is not altitude sickness, that just means you're cold. Everyone except Rhett and Vaclav got it right and can go start cutting some ropes."] Buddy cuts one of Candace's ropes. Ashleia in response cuts one of Buddy's. Paula cuts one of Ashleia's ropes. Louie cuts Buddy's last rope, and Candace cuts Louie's last rope. $v["Buddy and Louie are out of the challenge, and we are down to four. Paula and Rhett have all three ropes, Ashleia has two, and Candace and Vaclav each have only one. Next question: when in cold temperatures one may encounter in a high-altitude environment, what material should you never use for your primary articles of clothing? Show A for polyester, B for cotton, C for wool, and D if it doesn't matter as long as you have enough layers."] Everyone gives their answer as follows: **A**: **B**: Ashleia, Candace, Rhett, Vaclav **C**: **D**: Paula $v["B is correct. Cotton works best in hot, dry climates, and once it gets wet it can give you hypothermia. Everyone except Paula, start cutting."] Rhett cuts Paula's first rope, Vaclav cuts Ashleia's second, Ashleia responds by cutting Vaclav's last rope, and Candace cuts Ashleia's last rope. $v["Vaclav and Ashleia are out, and we are down to three. Next question: which of the following animals were domesticated by the Inca civilization? Show A for alpacas, B for mountain goats, C for coyotes, and D for monkeys."] Candace, Rhett, and Paula all answer A. $v["A is correct. You all can cut someone's rope."] Paula cuts Rhett's first rope, while he and Candace cut Paula's second and last ropes. $v["Congratulations, Candace and Rhett, you win reward in the form of a big Chinese takeout lunch! Only one of you can pick someone to eat with you, however, so we have to continue to what might be the final question. True or false: Incan farmers took great pains to conserve the natural landscape, such as preserving wetlands that could have been drained for agriculture. Show A for true, and B for false."] Candace shows A, while Rhett shows B. "Clearly a myth perpetuated to portray these people as uncivilized," says Rhett, "who require subjugation by Western powers to-" $v["Not at all, Rhett, chill out,"] says Vincent. $v["The correct answer... is **false.** Since Candace has only one rope left, Rhett wins! Who do you want to join you and Candace on your reward?"] "Buddy," says Rhett, "because I know he deserves it." "Rhett and Buddy sitting in a tree," Rocky sings, "K-I-yow! HEY!" Denine moves her foot off of Rocky's tail. $v["You can head back to camp. Rhett, Candace, Buddy, your lunch will be waiting for you. Everyone else, better luck next time."] $m[**Ochalibas**] Rhett, Candace, and Buddy get to enjoy their reward meal in a separate part of camp from everyone else. "Food is always a good reward," says Candace, grabbing a jar doo chicken wing. Buddy nods, his mouth full of stir fry. //"So of course, when the challenge is a popularity contest, I lose. I'm in utter shock," says Buddy, not in utter shock. "But the fact that Rhett won was a surprise, and when he picked me to get the reward with him, it made me glad that I hadn't shut him out in his time of need. Sure, it's annoying to hear his rambling about conspiracies and whatnot, but I can't just sit back and watch him crumble under stress."// "I think after last time, we need to absolutely be sure how we're voting," says Buddy, "because if we flip on someone again, we're going to lose the numbers." Candace nods. "Yeah, and right now it looks to be just voting Rocky out." "How can I believe you?" Rhett replies. "How do I know you aren't going to try and pull the rug out again? We planned on voting him out every single round, and he's in the top half. For crying out loud, guys. I don't know how much I can take you all at your word anymore." "Forget about that," says Candace. "We don't owe you a vote. It's only that right now, it's in our best interests to vote him out. If that changes, then it's not because we don't like you or anything. Believe me, he would have been gone last time had he not won immunity." "And it should have been Denine or Louie instead," says Rhett. "Right, so one of those three has to go," says Buddy. "One of those three? You're moving the goalposts now." Rhett scowls. "If we have the opportunity, we damn well better take the shot!" //"Somehow, agreeing with everything Rhett is saying is not enough to convince him we're on his side," says Candace. "It's bizarre. What do I need to do to get Rhett to trust me, write my vote in blood?"// Meanwhile, Louie, Rocky, and Denine are talking to Paula and Vaclav about voting together. "So, vote Rhett out next?" Louie asks. "I'd like that," says Denine. "Makes sense," Vaclav agrees. "That sound alright to you, Paula?" Paula nods. "He's the most expendable at this point." "Cool." Louie nods, and he walks away. "Well that was kind of abrupt," says Paula. "That's just how he always is," says Denine. "It's nothing personal." Paula, Vaclav, and Rocky give Denine confused looks. "Okay, it might be personal." //"I see Louie's point, though," says Denine. "We've put out the name we want, and that's that. Why stick around for negotiations that we frankly don't want to have? You might call it stubborn... and you'd be right."// "So, I'm pleasantly surprised that you're thinking about working with us," says Denine. "Why's that, again?" Paula shrugs. "Vaclav and I are the last two from our old tribe, and if he's uneasy with being in that majority alliance then I'm uneasy as well." "But then what?" Rocky asks. "Let's say we vote out Rhett. Awesome, he's worthless. Then what do we do?" "You mean, between Buddy, Candace, and Ash?" Paula asks. "To be honest, I'm not entirely sure." //"I don't want to come off like I'm calling the shots, because I know how well that ended up for Jackie," says Paula. "I'm taking my time, keeping my options open, but I'd rather see where the two groups want me to do with them before I decide if that's what I want to do for myself."// "The problem is Rhett is the most obnoxious, but he's the least threatening of the bunch," says Denine. "Once we take him out, the others have to go one-two-three right after." Paula nods. "But what do you think is best?" "I just want to see Buddy gone afterwards," says Denine. "You know that, though." "Yeah... you've made that clear," says Paula. Denine crosses her arms. "So..." "We will talk about it when we get there," says Vaclav. "We do not need her to have tunnel vision to have her on our side." "I may be in a tight spot but I'm not going to take a bad deal," Denine snaps. "How do I know I can trust... either of you?" "You can't," says Vaclav. "But that goes both ways," Paula adds. "You're the one who tried to vote me out already. Shouldn't I be asking you that?" Denine starts to answer but stops herself. Paula raises an eyebrow. "Whatever." Denine walks off. //"I'll let Rocky figure this out," says Denine. "I'm not getting anywhere with Paula, and Vaclav is being real nice with her, which makes me wonder what the hell is his problem. I just want Rocky to not win immunity so he can work like it's him on the line... because it will be."// "They really make you do all the heavy lifting, don't they?" says Paula. "They just know I can do it better than they can," says Rocky. "We can just vote them out, you know," Paula replies. "Jennifer's gone, we can use this to finish off old Chalpe like we talked about. How does that sound?" Rocky's eyes light up. "You know... that's not a bad idea, actually. They're taking me for granted." "If that's what you want to do..." says Vaclav. "I'm just saying, that's a possibility," says Paula. "Only if you're comfortable with it." //"That was weird," says Vaclav. "It's her idea. Why does she want to run everything through me? They are risks that she wants to take. Unless she will do it anyways, so she can claim that I flipped in order to get me out... it just does not make any sense."// While Paula, Rocky and Vaclav are talking, Ashleia walks nearby, notices the trio, and ducks out of view. //"It just hit me that I was, like, thinking too much inside the box," says Ashleia. "Vaclav isn't just friends with Louie. He is the key to a flip! And right now, we might lose Paula if we do not act fast. We definitely need a change in plans!"// Ashleia confronts Candace and Buddy after they have finished the reward lunch. "We have a major emergency," says Ashleia. "I just saw Rocky talking with Vaclav and Paula. If they flip, we're in serious trouble." "You've got to be kidding me," says Buddy. "See, this is why we can't just vote Rocky and be done with it." "Well there isn't really an alternative!" Candace exclaims. "If we try to get them back, we lose Rhett." "Maybe we should make that sacrifice," says Ashleia. "Us three, plus those two, that's five. That's a majority! Rhett is being totally inflexible, and that is killing us. We need to forget him and vote out Louie." "Why him?" Buddy asks. "Not that I'm complaining." "If Louie is gone, that means Vaclav only has real ties with our side again," says Ashleia. "Louie pulled him over, and if he's not sure then this is how we pull him back." "Vaclav wouldn't vote Louie out," says Candace. "Doesn't matter," Buddy replies. "If they're going after Rhett, which they're definitely claiming they will, then he's not in the revote. Even if Vaclav sides with Denine and Rocky still, Paula will side with us regardless." //"We finally have a solid reason to stick together with a trustworthy majority," says Buddy, "and Paula should be in on it. This is fantastic! I'm just worried about what Paula's thinking about it, since she was just talking to the people we've decided to target. I know she'll never get rid of me, but I can't really say the same about the girls."// [[Day 28<-Read Day 28]]

**Day 28 Immunity Challenge** For immunity, each contestant has to first crawl between two nets suspended in the air and parallel to the ground. At the end of the two nets is a bag which contains some puzzle pieces. The bag is tied to a pole, so the bag must first be untied, and the contestants must crawl backwards through the nets to the beginning with the bag. They then return to a puzzle station behind them, which contains much larger pieces. The pieces in the bag and those at the station must be combined to create a ladder, which is used to climb on top of the higher net. A small platform rests on top of the pole on the other side, and the first person to step foot on that platform wins immunity. Buddy, Candace, Denine, and Vaclav pull ahead of the others from the beginning. However, Denine struggles with untying the bag, allowing Rhett to catch up with her. Vaclav and Candace stumble with getting out of the maze, while Buddy has less trouble. Buddy manages to assemble the ladder in a reasonable amount of time, maintaining his lead, until he gets on top of the upper net and nearly falls through. Denine makes a comeback, swiftly putting the ladder together, and catching up with Buddy. It is a close race to the end, but Buddy jumps from farther back than Denine is willing to, making an uneasy but ultimately successful landing. Buddy receives the immunity necklace from Vincent, and the merged tribe is sent back to camp to discuss who of the other eight will be voted out. $m[**Ochalibas**] After returning back from the challenge, the tribe of nine quickly splintered to discuss the vote. In one group was Candace, Paula, Rhett, and Vaclav. "So, I guess we're finally voting Rocky out," says Paula. "No shenanigans, right?" "Well, about that..." Candace puts her hand behind her head and looks to the side. "I don't know if we're doing that after all." "You what!?" Rhett exclaims. "After all that time you insisted that we would stick to the plan that we've had, you're trying to break it again?" "It wasn't my idea!" Candace clenches at the hair behind her neck. "We were just talking about it, and we decided it would be better if we voted Louie out instead." "I don't know," says Vaclav. "We can get rid of him any time, can't we? Denine will not be mad at us if we vote Rocky." "But if she's next, it doesn't matter, does it?" Paula replies. "You want Rocky in your final seven!?" Rhett tenses up. "I have never heard something more outrageous and morally objectionable in my life." "I'm sure you have," Paula mutters. "Do you want to vote with us or not?" Candace crosses her arms. "Because if you're not going against Louie tonight, that means you're with him." "How dare you!" Rhett snaps. "I would never associate with the likes of him. Is it a terrible thing that I have priorities?" "When you aren't willing to compromise, it is!" Candace shouts. "Cut it out, please!" Paula steps in between them. "Rhett," says Vaclav, "they are trying to vote you out. You need to vote with us." "Then just vote Rocky!" Rhett protests. "What's so hard about that? Without him, Louie and Denine have nothing!" //"Rocky is the obvious ringleader," says Rhett. "You don't need a thorough education in psychology to see that. Simply attacking his sphere of influence will do nothing, he will simply pull someone else in, just like he has done in the past. So, if Candace would just LISTEN to me, we would be in a better situation."// Eventually, Rhett storms off to vent to Buddy. Candace turns to Paula and Vaclav. "If he wants to have his little temper tantrum, fine," says Candace. "The three of us, plus Ashleia and Buddy, we have five votes right there." "She's right, you know," says Paula. "Right, okay," says Vaclav. "I'll vote for Louie." After Candace accepts this and leaves, Paula whispers "just let me know if you change your mind". //"Candace's logic for ignoring Rhett is the same one we can use if we want to flip, and I hope Vaclav sees that," says Paula. "I'm just waiting on his cue, because I think we both have a better shot at survival if we do it together. And if we don't, then at least I would know not flipping is the right thing to do."// Meanwhile, Louie and Rocky are talking. "I just want to get rid of him," says Louie. "Who, Rhett?" Rocky asks. "No, the cameraman," Louie replies. "If we have Paula and Vaclav on board, not a problem," says Rocky. "Should be a slam dunk." "It's just annoying that we have to count on those two to pull through," says Louie. "Does it look like we have anything else to work with?" Rocky rolls his eyes. //"When half the game has boycotted you, there is only so much you can do," says Louie. "It's ticking me off. I want to actually play the game, and I can't do that if I'm constantly on the bottom with only one option. And guess who's giving me only one option? That's right, it's Rhett."// "Or you could just use your idol," Louie suggests. "What? No way!" Rocky crosses his arms. "First of all, I don't even have one, so-" "Denine tells me everything, numb nuts," says Louie. "And it's only me she's told, so if Vaclav and Paula are lying then they won't think to split." "It's too early," says Rocky. "I'm just not going to waste it, when I'm not even sure who the target is." "What do you mean, don't know who the target is? It's the same as always, it's you!" "Then why's Rhett being a bigger spaz than normal?" //"Of course, I know I'm not the only one on the block," says Rocky. "The only fun thing to do around here is go people watching, and right now I'm getting a hell of a show from the majority alliance. They're up to something, and since the status quo is the worst possible outcome, I want them to be up to something!"// As Louie and Rocky bicker, Paula approaches them. "So, what's the plan tonight?" she asks. "Rhett. Duh." Rocky rolls his eyes. "Haven't we talked about this already?" "Geez, okay, sorry I wanted to double check," says Paula. "It's not even a question at this point," says Louie. "Is he doing anything good for you at all? Running around like a chicken with its head cut off? I didn't think so." "I guess not," says Paula. "Voting him out won't really upset anyone," Louie continues. "When he goes, the others will be upset but also think 'thank god it wasn't me'. And something tells me you don't want to end up backstabbing anyone, but he was Jennifer's ally, and Buddy's kind of, and that's pretty much it." //"Paula is trying to play the middle," says Louie, "and she's clearly hesitating today. With everything. I don't know why; it would actually make sense to keep around the people who could never win against her in the end. That's how I see it, at least."// //"Louie makes some good points," Paula explains, "but I don't like the idea of making moves just to make moves. I'm a little stuck, because either way is a good option but it's an uphill climb to make amends with the side that I lied to."// Back in the shelter, Denine is lying on her stomach, trying to shut everyone out. Unfortunately, Vaclav finds her and sits down next to her. "We've already decided on the vote tonight, have we not?" Denine asks. "Rhett's annoying and useless, he's gotta go." "I don't know," says Vaclav. "It might not be the best move right now." "I'm not voting Rocky," says Denine, "that would be stupid." "I never asked you to," Vaclav replies. "There's been something on my mind, recently." //"I have a really uneasy feeling about tonight," says Vaclav. "And I think Denine is the best person to ask about this because she is neutral. She has the same amount of disdain for everyone."// Vaclav whispers something to Denine. "Wow, seriously? I mean, I don't think that's possible," she replies. "It could be," says Vaclav. "It might not work, I know. But Rhett is not scary." "I mean, he would be a better goat than Rocky is..." Denine sits up. "I think we should bring this up with the others. It's a long shot, but who knows, right?" $v[**Tribal Council**] The Ochalibas tribe walks into the tribal council building with lit torches. They place their torches behind their seats and sit down. $v["Welcome to tribal council,"] says Vincent. $v["This is where we would introduce the jury, but because of previous incidents, Jennifer's jury privileges were revoked."] "I knew it," Rhett mutters. $v["Denine, last night was a shock to most, but you seemed perfectly content with it all. Why would that be?"] "It honestly saved me," says Denine. "If that didn't happen, it was either me or Louie leaving. The two of us are unwelcome here, the others have made that very clear." "And you never do anything about it," says Candace. "How are we expected to have a change of heart if all you do is sulk in the corner with him?" "Sulk in the corner? Please. You guys just gave up on trying to include us in anything," Denine replies. "You could have easily worked with us, since we voted with you in the final 11, but you took the easy way out and just pointed fingers at us." "We only did that because Rocky had immunity," Ashleia replies. "You know he was the one we wanted out. But when you, like, saw that we thought you were the next best choice to us, you just accepted it. We can't even help you." $v["Rocky, you don't have immunity, and yet again you're the one everyone seems to be gunning for."] "That's not a good idea," says Rocky, "and I know that they know it. I'm sure they all want to be responsible for something, and if all you're trying to do is do better than me, then once I'm out, you're worthless to everyone and you'll be sitting right next to me on the jury." "Or we just want to get it over with so that we can actually play the game," says Buddy. "You're leaving a good impression on us, and by good, I mean terrible, so why should we even want to bother dealing with any of you?" $v["Rhett, do you agree with Buddy?"] "Of course, I do," says Rhett. "This tribe is poisoned. There is exactly one antidote. But the list of people I trust to realize this and do the right thing is getting smaller and smaller." Vaclav looks stunned. "You have a list of people you trust?" Rhett shakes his head. "No, not a literal list." "No, I mean I am shocked you trust people so easily," says Vaclav. Everyone looks at Vaclav, confused. "It's... it's a social game," says Candace. "You kind of have to trust people." "Not when I know you're all working against me," Vaclav replies. "None of you warned me when Khall tried to vote me out." "Because nobody was going to entertain that idea," says Buddy. "How could I have known?" Vaclav protests. "Why would you think that Khall had the backing to pull off a move like that?" Buddy replies. "You don't need to bring him into this," says Paula. "Vaclav has a point. If he's left out of the loop for one thing, then how does he know that's the only thing being kept from him?" Vaclav tucks his hands between his knees. "I'm not keeping anything from him," says Buddy. "I think we've been as straightforward about what we're doing tonight as we can," Paula agrees, "but there is always an element of paranoia in this game." $v["Louie, it sounds like the consensus is starting to break down. What does that mean for you?"] "It better," he says flatly. "I've made my pitch. The right people have been told why they shouldn't just coast along with the others. If you think you're just going to be able to take out the minority all in a row, and have no plan for the endgame, you're a sitting duck. There are three of us here now that will help you, don't let that go to waste." "The right people...?" Ashleia grimaces. "And you don't even have the balls to name names," says Buddy. "Gee, let me just spill all the tea for you guys so you can vote me out because you're all //such// nice people," says Louie. "Give me a break." $v["Alright then. So, if everything is settled, it is time to vote."] "Hold on!" Everyone turns around to look at the objector. "I have something I want to play." Rhett gets up and walks over to Vincent, handing over the Vote Steal. $v["This is indeed the vote steal,"] says Vincent. $v["Whose vote are you taking tonight?"] "I've thought about this," says Rhett, "and there's only one person that makes sense." Rocky bows his head, looking completely defeated. "Candace. I can't trust her." Candace's face turns red. "Wh-what!?" "You're unreliable!" Rhett protests. "Every single time someone tries to count on you, you let them down! Min-Ji, Saul, Jarrett, all of them left by your hands when you could have voted out someone who truly deserved it. I'm not letting this happen again." "I hate him so much, now," Candace grumbles. "Don't let it get to you," says Buddy. "The only person it can hurt is himself." Paula leans over to Vaclav. "I don't feel so safe anymore, so I'll vote Louie. Do what you think is best," she whispers. $v["Alright. Candace will not vote tonight. Rhett, you have two votes, go ahead and cast them."] Rhett goes to the voting booth, casts his two votes, then returns. Buddy is next to go, and he gets up to cast his vote. When Denine thinks Buddy has cast his vote, she speaks up. "Alright, Plan B is on." "You sure?" Louie asks. "Positive," says Denine. Candace gulps. ... $votesarein $v["Louie."] "Interesting," says Louie. Buddy shakes his head. $v["Louie. That's two votes Louie."] Rhett narrows his eyes. $v["Rocky."] "You've got to be kidding me," says Paula. "I warned you," Rhett replies. $v["Rocky. He is now tied with Louie."] "You warned us? More like you might have just screwed us." Candace glares at him. "Then maybe you shouldn't have flipped," Rhett replies. $v["Louie. Three for Louie, two for Rocky."] "I love it," says Rocky. Denine rolls her eyes. "We know." $v["Next vote... Paula."] Paula looks stunned. "Why...?" Nobody acknowledges her. $v["Paula. Three votes Louie, two votes Paula, two votes Rocky."] "If you were voting against me anyways," says Louie, "why are you so offended?" "You're a dick," Buddy snaps. $v["Paula. She is now tied with Louie."] "Let me guess," says Rhett. "Then it would be a tiebreaker because otherwise you would lose one of your precious plants." "What are you talking about, Rhett?" Paula asks, completely lost. "Yeah, you're the one who made it this close in the first place," Candace snaps. "I clearly made the right choice not to trust you," says Rhett. "You're delusional." $v["Final vote..."] Everyone sitting down is on high alert, except for Vaclav who knows exactly how it's going to end. $v["Ninth $boot, and the first $juror, is **Paula**. Four votes are enough, tonight. You need to bring me your torch."] "Oh, fuck off," says Candace, looking right at Rhett. "I guess this was your Plan B," says Paula as she stands up. "Good job figuring me out." Louie smiles to himself, admiring the slew of horrified and furious expressions from the opposing alliance. As Paula walks towards Vincent, she discretely places her hand on Buddy's shoulder for a quick second. She then sticks her torch into the slot in the ground. $v["Paula, the tribe has spoken."] Vincent extinguishes the Hispanic woman's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] Paula turns around to wave goodbye to Ashleia, Buddy, and a sheepish Vaclav, before heading out. $v["What looks like a blessing is sometimes a curse in disguise. You might think you have a trick up your sleeve, but it doesn't always give you the result you want. At the end of the day, the only votes you can really be sure about are the ones you write down. You can head back to camp."] $m[//"I was completely blindsided tonight. I tried to consider everything, but I guess that made me come off as flaky," says Paula. "It's really hard to think about, because now Buddy's all alone in the game and I don't know how he's going to do without me. As for why I'm sitting here... I think the look on Vaclav's face told me he backstabbed me. To be voted out by the one person I trusted with things I didn't even tell my actual best friend is terrible, and I just want to know why he did it."//] Voting Results: ''Paula – Denine, Louie, Rocky, Vaclav'' Louie – Ashleia, Buddy, Paula Rocky – Rhett (x2) //Ineligible// – Candace [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 28 Ochalibas**] After the tribe of eight arrives back at camp, Rhett confronts the rest of his alliance, while their intended targets sit in the shelter and watch. "So, are you all unreliable now?" Rhett asks, with folded arms. "We all agreed to vote Rocky out, did we not?" "We did not," says Candace. "We said to vote Louie. You ran away, we did it without you." "In other words, yes," says Rhett. "Ashleia, Vaclav, I thought you wouldn't let her bend your will. And BUDDY, you especially! I thought you were the only one I could count on!" "Clearly, I couldn't even count on you, so what difference does it make?" Buddy snaps. "I was nothing but honest! You all deceived me!" //"I knew Candace was going to try something fishy, which is why I used the vote steal," Rhett explains calmly. "I did not account for the possibility of her, or someone else, poisoning her allies into voting that way. And now that Paula has paid the price for her mendacity, the others are soon to follow."// "Shouldn't we be more worried about who flipped?" Buddy asks. "They would never have gotten away with it had the rest of you not-" Rhett begins. "IT WAS YOUR FAULT!" Buddy shouts. "Paula is gone! We had four loyal votes to counter any flip, and I'm sure you wouldn't have kept Louie over Paula!" "It was not the time to make that decision," Rhett replies, "and you know that." "Not the time!? Shut up, Rhett!" Candace snaps. "You're not the boss of us!" "Quit it!" Ashleia protests. "Getting angry won't help. We need his vote more than ever now." "Hey, Rhett, they don't appreciate you," Denine shouts from the shelter, "you should flip!" "Maybe!" yells Rhett. "At least Denine isn't a sheep!" //"Did he really just say that?" Denine says, with a big smile. "Oh my god, I thought he was a lost cause. I would love to be able to get him to flip. If I could have Rhett back on my side, then there's my finals goat and I don't even need Rocky anymore!"// "Don't even think about it," says Louie. "You'd be playing with fire." "Hey, I let you have Vaclav and that actually paid off," says Denine. "I can get Rhett eating out of my hand, don't test me." "Who says that you can win against Rhett, though?" Rocky asks. "Oh, wow, I'm so hurt," says Denine. "That would pack more of a punch from someone I actually cared about." //"A good word to describe Louie and Denine..." says Rocky. "How about 'smug'? I've been carrying them both since the merge, and yet they keep trashing me and not giving me the respect that I deserve. Do they really think that they can beat me in the end without making any impact on the game at all?"// $m[**Day 29**] Buddy, Candace, Ashleia, and Vaclav meet up by the river to talk about their next steps. "So, we lost Paula last night because of that stupid vote steal," says Buddy. "Right now, we can only hope that Rhett isn't going to take Denine's offer seriously." "That would go against everything we know about him," Candace replies. "But I'm afraid that at this point he's so off the deep end that he might loop back around into being aware of everything. If he knows he's on the bottom, of course flipping is possible." "He didn't flip last night," says Buddy. "Denine and Louie voted Paula out for sure, and if Rhett did as well then she would have gotten at least five votes." Vaclav nods. "He definitely voted Rocky." Buddy looks at Vaclav, eyebrow raised. "Oh yeah?" "Process of elimination, right?" Vaclav shrugs. "I guess..." Buddy looks back to Ashleia and Candace, but Vaclav stops him. "Buddy, can I talk to you for a minute?" he asks. "Alone?" Ashleia and Candace share an awkward glance, and give their male allies some space. //"I'm not really sure what part of Vaclav being... weird is because he grew up in a different country, or if some poor people are just like that," says Ashleia. "I know in Survivor you have to watch your back and stuff, but he takes it to a whole new level sometimes."// "Do you know what he could be asking about?" Ashleia says to Candace. "I think I know," says Candace. "Either he thinks that if he admits to all of us at once that he voted Paula out then we would freak out, or he's accusing Buddy of being the flipper." "It could go, like, either way," says Ashleia. "I know you didn't, but maybe Buddy is exaggerating too much?" Candace agrees. "That's what I'm thinking – one of them turned on Paula, and the other is about to make it known to the world." The two are interrupted by an outburst. "I fucking knew it! Goddamn, Vaclav, why did we even trust you?!" "And there it is," says Candace. //"I'm pissed at Vaclav for screwing up our majority, as well," says Candace, "but Buddy just took it personally. I'm not sure why, because someone who has automatic enemies on the other side should not be trying to burn bridges."// "What do we do at this point?" Ashleia asks. "Now we know who's loyal to us, and it's a small group. We don't have the majority anymore." "Play it by ear," says Candace. "Any of the other five could maybe be voted out now." Soon enough, Buddy returns to talk to Ashleia and Candace again. "He's trying to frame the whole thing as 'did what he had to do'," says Buddy. "Voting out someone who showed him that trust he always talks about not having or needing... I wouldn't call that something he had to do." Candace shakes her head. "Yeah, I wouldn't, either. I just think he showed his hand too early. He's not a solid ally anymore, for one." "Honestly, I wouldn't be against voting him out," says Buddy. "If he's going to try and flip back and forth, then we can't count on him. Chances are that Denine and Rocky aren't really inclined to keep him around either." "You think Rhett would allow us to do that?" Ashleia asks. "We can't count on Rhett, either," Candace counters. "We need to do everything we can to get anyone to side with us." "And Rhett might not be the easiest to convince," Ashleia agrees. "I guess that means we've gone from having Rocky on our hitlist to having him on our wish list," says Buddy. //"If we're going to get someone new to flip, Rocky makes the most sense," Buddy explains. "Denine and Louie are using him, and in their own alliance he doesn't really have anyone to lean on. I don't want to count Rhett out, either, but the chances of getting those two to agree on anything are incredibly slim."// Meanwhile, Louie is talking with Denine when Vaclav walks up to them. "I'm impressed," says Louie. "From all the time you were talking to her, Vaclav, I wouldn't have guessed that you were willing to throw Paula under the bus." "I just could not trust her," Vaclav explains. "Everything she told me was just too good to be true. Even if I could believe her, I could not try to win against her." "Not only that, but we also got rid of the 'will she or won't she' question," says Denine. "I'm so glad Rhett decided to not trust his alliance." //"We needed a miracle to get the numbers back, and I think we got one hell of a miracle," says Louie. "Now I have Vaclav, Denine, and Rocky all working with me, and on the other side everyone hates Rhett, so their alliance is pretty much done."// "Buddy was really, really mad," says Vaclav. "He called me a backstabber and a sneak." "And we love you for it," Denine adds. "He can say whatever, but it's just salt." "Imagine how much angrier all of them will be at the next tribal," says Louie. "Karma's a bitch," says Denine. "How do we vote next time?" Vaclav asks. "We still need Rocky so we can't get rid of him yet." "We go for the leader," says Louie. "Voting out Paula stunned them, now we aim for the head." Vaclav folds his arms. "Alright, I suppose. But the alliance has no leader, they all make decisions together." "There's the one person who's keeping them all in check," Denine explains. "Ashleia may not be acting the part, but she's the only one left that's keeping Buddy, Candace, and Rhett from tearing each others' throats out." "It does not seem to be working," says Vaclav. //"Rhett made a big mistake last night," says Vaclav, "and Candace is very tense about it. If she still had her vote, I would have had to vote Louie out as well, so she's right to be upset. Do we even need to vote out Ash before Candace and Rhett have a big fight?"// As his reluctant allies talk, Rocky is lying in the shelter by himself. "Why does it have to be so boring around here," he mutters, "I haven't had any fun in days." He sits up, yawns, and stretches his arms out. //"Man, it's just been a constant battle for me," says Rocky. "Every other vote someone tries to get me out, so I'm constantly on defense. I just want to unwind, but I'm surrounded by dorks who don't know how to have a good time. I just have to make do with throwing my own parties while everyone else is whinging about betrayal or whatever."// "Yeah-ee-yeah-ee-yeah-ee-yeah-ee yeah..." Rocky sings to himself as he gets up and starts to dance. His dancing mostly consists of moving his torso and shoulders back and forth, almost scared to go all out. "Your something, something like a waterfall, flowing inside me like never before..." Rocky continues to dance, occasionally putting in lyrics that he half-remembers. "Hey, Skippy! Join in if you know the words!" "That's not my name," says a voice from behind the camera. Rocky looks directly at the camera and begins to yell at the top of the lungs to his own beat. "''Don't wanna love you if you don't love me! Don't wanna need you when you won't need me too! Don't wanna tell you'' a-murmle umma ''wouldn't be right!''" He gyrates his hips and pumps his fists in the air as he does this. "Na na na na na na ''gotta tell you this toni-ight!''" //"I'll make it real worth your time if you don't air that footage," Rocky growls.// After Rocky finished making a spectacle of himself, he leans against a tree to catch his breath. "At least I know the words to all my own songs... most of the time." He almost doesn't notice the brightly coloured frog that jumps down from his head onto his shoulder. "AAAAH! Help! Help!" he shrieks, trying to shake the frog off his shoulder without touching it. Eventually, he trips over a tree root and lands flat on his back. Rhett walks over and plants his feet on either side of Rocky's legs. "Not feeling so powerful now," says Rhett with a smirk. "What are you talking about?" Rocky quickly puts two and two together. "What is //wrong// with you, Rhett!?" "I could ask you the same thing, Rocky," Rhett counters. "No, honestly, you can't!" Rocky barks. "You don't just go around playing with frogs in the Amazon! The brightly coloured ones are all maybe poisonous. You could have died for a stupid stunt!" "Stupid stunt?" Rhett glares at Rocky. "I know your tricks. You planted this where you knew I was going to be, away from any witnesses. You wanted me taken care of while you still had the chance." "I don't want to MURDER you!" "Don't try to act noble, vermin," Rhett snaps. "I was just watching you. You don't ever get up and jump around and convulse like that. You were using a Semaphore-like coded message to your 'friends' in the CIA, weren't you? It couldn't have been about 100 kilos of cocaine destined for Los Angeles, right?" "NO!" //"Figures... denial," says Rhett. "It's because he knows he's being watched. Even Rocky's just a pawn in the grand scheme of things, and it serves him well to keep mum about the whole operation if he wants to keep his head. But the more I can make him sweat, the more truth I can uncover."// "Well, what exactly were you doing then?" Rhett asks. "I'd love to hear your crazy, half-baked excuse." Rocky starts to struggle with answering Rhett's questions. "You were hallucinating because you handled that frog. I was just standing here." "Nice try! I never touched the frog with my bare hands." Rhett smirks. "Plus, I knew you drugged the rice, so I didn't have any breakfast today, so there goes your 'just seeing things' excuse." "You're psychotic," says Rocky. //"Eventually I got him to stop by threatening to bite his balls off," says Rocky. He frowns. "The sad part was that he nearly convinced me that doing it would be a favour to the human species."// //"It's clear I can't get everything I need from pressuring Rocky alone," says Rhett. "Maybe he's right, and he's just following orders. And you know who would be giving those orders? None other than Vincent Boucher.... I believe it's time the two of us had a little sit down."// [[Day 30<-Read Day 30]]

**Day 30 Reward Challenge** The eight contestants arrive at the challenge beach, where Vincent explains the next challenge to them. They will be divided into two teams of four, and each team will take turns having players break open coconuts, hold as much of the coconut water in their mouths as they can, then climb up a five-meter-tall structure. At the top of the structure is a bucket that the coconut water should be spat into. When the bucket is weighed down enough, it will release a banner of the team's colour, and that team will win reward. The winning team will visit an outdoor spa with warm showers and a mud bath. On the $m[red] team are Buddy, Candace, Rhett, and Vaclav. On the $o[green] team are Ashleia, Denine, Louie, and Rocky. The red team struggles out of the gate with Candace hating the taste of coconut water and getting nauseous halfway up the structure. The green team does much better, with Louie and Rocky able to carry much more than average to compensate for Ashleia's slow climbing. The challenge proceeds slowly, with the green team's lead growing ever so slightly over time until they win immunity. Rhett accuses the green team of practicing the challenge ahead of time, but Rocky claims that Rhett didn't give him any space to do such a thing. Vincent sends the green team off on their reward and dismisses the red team with prejudice. $t[**Spa Reward**] Ashleia and Denine, who have gone right for the mud bath, waste no time lathering up with cool, refreshing mud. They are all smiles as they take turns coating each others' backs. Louie and Rocky watch from a distance, neither too interested in the prospect. //"I enjoy a nice swim," says Louie. "But a mud bath doesn't sound appealing at all. Trying to get clumps of that stuff out of fur would be a nightmare. It's bad enough when it rains at camp, I wouldn't really call that experience a reward."// Denine is the first to step into the mud bath itself, holding Ashleia's hand to keep her steady. "It's like a hot tub!" Denine says excitedly. "I know! Mud baths are, like, such a guilty pleasure of mine," says Ashleia. "How often do you go to these?" "I have never been to one before," says Denine. Ashleia's expression turns from one of joy to one of pity. "Oh, Denine... you're 26 and you've never been to a mud bath? I didn't realize you were that disadvantaged..." "You think that makes me disadvantaged?" Denine replies, stunned. "I just don't have time for that kind of luxury!" "Have you been to a spa, like, ever?" Ashleia asks. "Yeah..." Denine shrugs. "Like, every month or two, I get my nails and my feet done." "You poor thing." //"Sometimes, I just feel guilty when I hear about all the hardships that the other people here go through," says Ashleia. "I can literally feel the pain in Denine's voice when she told me that she has to book her own haircuts a whole week in advance. I just want to hook her up with my stylist because she honestly deserves so much better."// The two young women relax in peace in the mud bath for a while. "Okay, can I ask you something?" Denine says quietly. "Shoot," says Ashleia. "Do you think Vaclav is a solid number for you?" "Like, for an alliance? I mean, not really," Ashleia replies. "He's just kind of... awkward sometimes. And now I know why. I think he's trying to stay in the middle." "I know he is," says Denine. "And to be completely honest, I'm not that close with him. He's Louie's ally, and I know I can't just tag along with Louie all game. I'm not a follower." //"I want Ashleia to get her allies to put Vaclav in the hot seat," Denine explains. "I do think he is a little too close to Louie for my liking; he's not someone I can put my faith in. The issue is I still kind of need him until I know I have Rhett back as an ally."// "We'll definitely think about it," says Ashleia. "Like, I don't know about you, but I don't want to have to count on Rhett. He still believes you're a spy or something." "Maybe that's just what he wants you to think," Denine replies. Ashleia grins and stifles a laugh. "CANNONBALL!" The girls turn around and see Rocky making a sprint towards the mud bath. Both Denine and Ashleia try to get away, but Rocky stops right at the edge of the pool and eases his way in. "I totally freaked you guys out, didn't I?" Rocky says with a smirk. "Proud of yourself?" Denine rolls her eyes. "Like, won't it take forever to wash the mud out of your tail and... hair and stuff?" Ashleia asks. "That's what Louie told me," says Rocky. "And Louie is a buzzkill. Besides, this is relaxing without being too girly, so I'm down for it." "So, what's Louie doing by himself?" Denine asks. "What do you think? He fell asleep five minutes ago," Rocky replies. "Good, I don't want him to hear this," says Denine. "I was just telling Ash that I think we should think about voting Vaclav." "Really!" Rocky looks shocked. "After he just voted with us?" "He was close with Paula," says Ashleia. "So, like, nobody is safe with him. He's also strong enough to win a lot of challenges, so it's not like we can do it any time." //"I'm glad that Ashleia sounded on board for my idea," says Denine. "I'm honestly going to need her to spread the word out, because compared to Vaclav, she's the bigger threat. By the time I want to get Vaclav out, Ashleia shouldn't be here."// $m[**Ochalibas**] Back at camp, Buddy and Candace are sitting in the shelter by themselves. "I'm beyond disappointed," says Candace. "I would have loved to go in a mud pool." "Well, if you win, you could afford to go on one by yourself," Buddy replies. "Or we could both go together," says Candace. "Oh, really?" Buddy smirks. "Yeah, I need someone to hold my towel." "Oh." //"I'm not as miffed about losing as I could have been," says Candace. "I know Ashleia was dying for a reward like this, so it's only fair that she gets to go. Either way, I want to make use of this to get a bit closer with Buddy."// "I hope Ashleia is doing okay," says Candace. "I wouldn't say she's in the best company right now, and sometimes I worry about her." Buddy nods. "She comes off as too naïve at times. It sounds like our alliance has been helping her gain confidence, but who knows if that will stick." "I hope it does," says Candace. "She's a nice person!" "She is! I don't want her to get taken advantage of," Buddy replies. Candace pauses for a moment. "You know, Buddy, at first you didn't strike me as the kind of person who would be concerned about that." "About a person?" "Well, I think back to your attitude towards Louie," Candace explains. "We had reason enough to consider voting him out when we first joined your tribe, but you really went at him. I couldn't side with you, not after what Jarrett had said and done." "You have to understand, Candace," says Buddy, "I was at a breaking point. He and Denine, and Lisa before them, they had pushed me to a breaking point." //"I don't believe in second chances," Buddy admits, "or at least you can't change in only ten days. That's why I didn't want Louie around. And I'm sticking by that, because it's been a month and he has never once shown any form of humility or remorse."// "It just reminded me too much of Jarrett. He tricked me, and I was completely blindsided," Candace explains. "I couldn't sense anything out of the ordinary about him. His energies were normal, not sticking out negatively like Rocky's or positively like Saul's." "Didn't you vote Saul out?" Buddy asks. "I did, because I doubted myself," says Candace. "I thought maybe I was being led astray by Rocky's toxic aura, and I was desperate to find something good to grab onto. But I kind of have to thank Jarrett in a roundabout way, because this journey made me realize something." "And what's that?" "That people's auras, and hidden energies, and vibes and chakras..." Candace takes a deep breath. "It's all a bunch of **fucking bullshit** that's never helped me!" She grabs a small rock and hurls it as hard as she can out of the shelter. Buddy simply looks at Candace, concerned. "I know what you're about to ask, and NO I'm not okay!" Candace states, very forcefully and somewhat loudly. "All this... all this stuff. I'm not some kind of new age mystic! I'm just a girl who likes to blow fruit flavoured bubbles because I thought it looked cool!" Buddy raises an eyebrow. "Like... vaping?" "Yes! But I don't even know if I can call it that!" Candace looks more distraught as she continues. "I don't smoke. I don't want any of those cancer-causing drugs in my system, it was just the easiest way to not look like a total dork!" //"You know what I always did when I was stressed out?" Candace asks rhetorically. "I pulled out a vape pen, lit it up, and went to town. I just liked the flavour. I knew it was pointless, but I liked the flavour of it and I just couldn't help myself. So that's why I forced myself out here without them."// "I know you all saw through it," says Candace. "Either way I was going to be a fucking punchline, so I might as well blame it on the addiction, right?" Buddy gives Candace a comforting hug. "I don't think any less of you for telling me," says Buddy. "I completely understand how it feels." "You're... hugging me?" Candace states the obvious. "But how? You seem normal enough." "For the exact same reason," says Buddy. "This is how I am. I hate fighting with people." "And yet you do it anyway," says Candace. "I've been pretending to be cold and confident for so long that it's second nature with people I don't trust," Buddy explains. "I know better than to show vulnerability to bad people." //"I was born and raised in a small, blue-collar country town that runs on 'moral character' and 'family values'," says Buddy. "I've been getting by trying to look like 'one of the good ones' that can suck it up and play the part like everyone else. But deep down, I can't make myself not love a man."// "But you can't just think everyone is a bad person if you don't know them," says Candace. "It's kept me safe, Candace," says Buddy. "It's kept me from being humiliated and ostracized. Look what happened with Rhett and Denine. They used to be great friends, but when they disagreed on one thing it became a race to one-up the other, to embarrass and shame them." "That's because Rhett is a dunce and Denine is a bitch," Candace replies. "Don't you think you're above that?" "Taking the high road doesn't make your problems disappear." //"I don't think Buddy's mean, he's just jaded," says Candace. "I understand some of his reasons for why he acts and talks the way he does. But I don't want to retreat from the world, because there's so much out there that I want to try."// "Maybe we should check on the others," Candace suggests. "We've been sitting here for a little while, and I don't think Rhett and Vaclav really get along anymore." Buddy sighs quietly, then nods. "Okay. We should go together, I think." Somewhere else at camp, Vaclav is sitting in a tree, collecting fruit for the camp. He had been moving from canopy to canopy very carefully, and he had finally found something edible. Rhett, meanwhile, was watching from below, inside a bush. "Climbing trees... when you have a chance to forgive the alliance that you betrayed without the influence of the other side? Very suspicious..." //"I couldn't get any information off of Vincent at the reward challenge," says Rhett. "He was too busy running the challenge, or so we're supposed to believe. But now I've had time to think it over, and it makes me wonder if I've had the right man this whole time."// "What are you doing up there?" Rhett demands. "What do you think I am doing?" Vaclav snaps. "Why, so you can just change your answer to whatever you think I'll believe?" Rhett replies. "You know I'm cleverer than that." "I am looking for fruit, since all we have left is rice," says Vaclav. "And what's wrong with rice, the main dietary item of over half of all humans?" Rhett crosses his arms. "Are you not hungry like the rest of us?" Vaclav asks. "Hungry for what? We all have a metabolism that can process rice," says Rhett. "Be honest, make it clear if that's a flaw in your alien digestive system." "Alien!?" Vaclav looks horrified. "Shut up! You're being racist!" "Ah, 'racist'," says Rhett. "That's what they all say when a white man from the South says something the outside world doesn't want to hear!" "What? You called me an alien!" "I'm not referring to the oppressive tactics used to subdue non-elites by turning them against their neighbours!" Rhett snaps. "I'm saying that no human biology can reject a staple grain like yours does!" "...what about gluten allergies?" Vaclav asks. "Those didn't exist before they started putting fluoride in the water," Rhett explains. //"I do not know what happened to Rhett," says Vaclav. "When I thought that he could not be any more aggressive and nonsensical, he outdoes himself. He's lucky that so many people tolerate him."// Buddy and Candace then approach Rhett from behind. "There you are!" Vaclav exclaims. "Rhett will not leave me alone, and he's accusing me of weird lies!" "If it was all lies, you wouldn't be changing the subject so much," says Rhett. "Rhett, you're coming with us back to camp," says Candace, "**now.**" Buddy averts his gaze from Vaclav as he and Candace lead Rhett back to camp. "And now I see their true selves come out," Vaclav mutters as he goes back to picking fruits, "they're probably plotting how to let him get his way." Buddy speaks up first as he walks with Rhett and Candace. "Okay, so, we don't have the majority anymore," says Buddy, "so this is going to be hard to hear, but we need to change our strategy." "So, let's vote Vaclav out," says Rhett. "You cannot get any more suspicious and deceitful than he is." "For real?" Buddy's eyebrows raise. "Well... that was easy. I was going to say the same thing." "Just don't change last minute on us," says Candace, "please?" "I didn't change at all last time," Rhett replies. "I said I would only vote Rocky, and yet I did. I'm voting against Vaclav, end of story." //"I'm shocked that Rhett flipped on a dime like that, but I'm not really complaining," says Buddy. "I think it's only fair to finish the old Quibas tribe off, since the only thing that was stopping me was Paula. But now that she's out, and by Vaclav's hand no less, then he's expendable."// [[Day 31<-Read Day 31]]

**Day 31 $m[Ochalibas]** Early in the morning, Denine wakes up Louie to tell him her plan. "Okay, so we're telling the others Vaclav," she says, "so maybe they'll flip on him. Then that way we try to push someone to turn on Ashleia in the revote. It's all we have, unless we can convince Rocky to play his idol." "Ugghhhh... you woke me up just to tell me that?" Louie groans. "I would have told you when we were on reward, but you were asleep then, too," says Denine. "You snooze, you lose, that's the plan." "Shouldn't we be getting them to target Rocky instead? He's less valuable to us," Louie replies. "Well, Rocky has an idol, and Vaclav blew his," says Denine. "So Rocky has more power, and we should really be trying to hold onto that as long as possible." //"I'm sure Louie's a little upset that I'm going after his butt-buddy," Denine explains, "but it's not like we're spoiled for choice. And to be honest, Vaclav being in is only really good for Louie, so why should I put up with it?"// "So, what makes you think I'll let you get away with trying to vote him out?" Louie asks. "If you want to rope Rhett in for a side-alliance, you shouldn't be messing with my side-alliance." "Oh, I'm sorry, did I agree to split the million with you?" Denine asks sarcastically in return. "I'm trying to get to the end with a few moves under my belt." "Do you want to just cannibalize your alliance with rocks in the horizon?" "How is telling them to vote Rocky any different then?" Unbeknownst to them, Rhett wakes up as well and silently shuffles over to the two of them. "Good morning," he says without an ounce of passion. "Hi," says Denine. "Just letting you know the plan is Vaclav tonight." Rhett narrows his eyes. "That's my plan... something tells me you're just telling me what I wanted to hear." "No, I actually want it as well," Denine says. "I haven't lied to you all game. Even when we didn't vote together, you knew how I was voting. You can trust me." Rhett stops to think, but as he does so Louie reaches into a small stack of bags. "Louie, what are you doing?" Denine asks. "Looking to air out someone's dirty laundry," Rhett guesses. "//Figuratively.//" "See, I'm just telling you why you shouldn't be listening to Denine," Louie replies. //"I don't understand why Denine has to make this so difficult," says Louie. "We're getting Ashleia out, end of story. The decoy vote really doesn't matter, but my theory is Denine is trying to take the credit. So, I had to stop that in its tracks."// Louie holds up one bag in particular. It's dark-coloured, rough, and has a patch or two. "I don't think Rocky would like to see you handling his bag," says Rhett. Louie smirks, opens it, and empties it onto the ground. On top of the pile, having been stashed at the bottom of the bag, is a hidden immunity idol. **Immunity Challenge** Each contestant stands in front of a long table maze that can tilt forwards, backwards, and side to side. They will have to first dig for a wooden ball in a square of sand 5 meters across, then bring back that ball and maneuver it to a small circular indent at the end of the maze. The maze has no walls on the left and right sides, and if the ball falls off those sides the maze has to be done over. First to the end wins immunity. The first to unearth a wooden ball is Buddy. He starts to go slowly through the maze, trying to resist the urge to speed his way through. Louie is next to find a ball. He takes a more aggressive approach, which immediately backfires when his ball rolls off the right edge. As Louie restarts, Candace and Vaclav head back with wooden balls. Rhett finds one as well, leaving Rocky, Ashleia, and Denine to dig. Eventually, Ashleia finds her ball, while Denine yells at Rocky for throwing sand back into her face. She and Rocky begin to bicker over it. The six players in the lead have their fair share of mistakes, but eventually Denine and Rocky find their balls and start working, so it's anyone's game. In the end, Rhett and Vaclav both get very close to the end. Buddy gets close too, but one flinch sends his ball rolling off the course. Rhett's ball approaches the indent, but a sudden gust of wind sends it past the indent. Rhett overcorrects, and the ball falls off. Vaclav takes advantage of the opening to land the ball gently in the indent. **Vaclav wins individual immunity!** Rhett can't help but look annoyed as the immunity necklace is placed around Vaclav's neck. The tribe is sent back to camp to deliberate on who should leave at the night's tribal council. $m[**Ochalibas**] //"It's clear that someone didn't want me to win immunity," says Rhett. "That gust of wind came out of nowhere and blew my ball right off the course. And now Vaclav has immunity! I'm completely disgusted. Now we only have one option tonight."// "It has to be Rocky," Rhett says to Buddy, Ashleia, and Candace. Buddy groans. "It really shouldn't be." "Louie found an idol in his bag," says Rhett. "He showed it to me, and I think he would only do that if it wouldn't help him." "We had only really agreed to go after Vaclav," says Buddy. "That's the only deal we had with Rocky, so he might figure that we aren't going to truce with him if we wouldn't need him next round." "Well, we need to deal with the idol somehow," says Ashleia. "I think we need to either get it played or get Rocky out. Can we, like, make them question where our vote's going?" "Or we can make them think they won't need it," suggests Candace. //"Do I believe Rhett's claim that Louie of all people showed him an idol? Not really," says Candace. "Louie's been incredibly lucky to get as far as he has, and it's only because of the people he's surrounded himself with. Surely, he'd wait another round before throwing them to the wolves. But the truth is, I'm worried that one of the others does have that idol, then this is our last shot to get rid of it."// "How do we know what the idol looks like?" Buddy asks. "Did anyone manage to get a peek at the one Vaclav had?" Rhett and Ashleia stare blankly. "I think it looked like a bracelet," says Candace. "He just whipped it off his wrist with his back turned to us, so I'm not totally sure." "Oh, like, kind of like this?" Ashleia takes off her golden bracelet studded with amber and gemstones. "This is the one I found at a challenge." Rhett's eyes light up. "Perfect! This is exactly what we need tonight." Candace takes a look at it. "Ash... that might be a real idol. Maybe you should give it to Rhett for tonight." "Well, I don't know," says Ashleia, "you think he's the target?" "If they're smart," says Candace. "But it goes perfectly with my BMW," Ashleia protests. "Ashleia!" Candace crosses her arms. Ashleia looks defeated, and hands the bracelet over to Rhett. Rhett excitedly grabs it. //"Okay, like, I'm not happy with Candace now," says Ashleia. "Even if it's an idol, it's too pretty to just hand over to Vincent! So, I just hope we don't need it tonight, and the idol doesn't come out to save Rocky."// Meanwhile, Louie is talking to Vaclav. "So, we're voting out Ashleia tonight," says Louie. "I personally made sure that they would try to take out Rocky." "How did you do that?" Vaclav asks. "I showed Rhett that Rocky has an idol from before the merge," Louie replies. "The idiot had it just sitting in his bag." "Okay," says Vaclav. "Who is the fifth person then?" "The what?" "There are four of us, and you said that Rhett should still be with them," Vaclav replies. "We cannot go to a tie." //"Louie, Denine, and Rocky have all received votes," says Vaclav. "Ashleia has not. If that breaks the tie, we lose. But do I want to be stuck on this side if the tie breaks that way?"// "That's what we're supposed to trust Denine on," says Louie. "She's saying that she can get Rhett to flip by pointing out that he's the spare for a group of three." "She expects Rhett to listen to reason?" Vaclav scratches his head. "He was completely illogical when he was yelling at me yesterday and called me all sorts of names." "You know what you signed up for when you voted Paula out," Louie replies coldly. //"It's Denine's time to shine," says Louie. "She's the one who got the whole thing rolling, she insisted on Ashleia being the boot, Vaclav being the decoy, Rhett being the flipper. But if she can't live up to her own hype, then there's nothing else she can do for me. Either you get with the program or get out of my sight."// Rocky is finishing up a parallel conversation with Denine. "The thing is, Rhett might want you out, but if his allies want me or Louie out again then it's a moot point," says Denine. "And they don't strike me as the kind to learn from their mistakes." "Or maybe you're just projecting," Rocky mutters. "What was that?" "Not important," says Rocky. "You're damn right it's not," Denine replies. "So, Ash goes tonight." Rocky shrugs. "Let's do it." "Right. I'll see you later, see if I can't stir some stuff up." Denine walks off. Rocky is then approached by Rhett and Vaclav from opposite directions. "I was looking for you both!" Rhett exclaims. "Why, so you can bully me some more?" Vaclav snaps, crossing his arms. "I was going to talk with Rocky about something important, so..." "There's nothing more important than the vote," says Rhett. "Rocky, Louie showed me that you have an idol." Rocky's eyes go wide. "Are you serious??" "It's the purple one, isn't it?" Rhett says. Rocky swears under his breath. "That lardass is so going to get it after tribal..." "It doesn't have to wait," says Rhett. "We have a plan. You, me, and Buddy vote for Louie. Vaclav, you and the girls vote Denine. We need to stop that pair from getting any further." "But you're doing this at the will of a trio," Rocky replies. "Why should we split up Denine and Louie when we should be splitting up those dorks instead?" "We should be," says Rhett. "If you do this, then next round we go after Candace. I'm fed up with her." //"I may be fed up with Candace, but for all her faults she is not on the side of darkness," says Rhett. "It took a lot of me to swallow my pride and speak with those two, but surely that will convince them that is it so important that I will forgo my own principles for that. But I never will... I can't work with them. There is no split vote, they WILL lose a number tonight."// After Rhett had left, Rocky looks at Vaclav. "Well, what did you want to say? Make it quick, mister Fox News over there fried half my brain out just now." "Well, he's being dishonest," says Vaclav. "He would not have been that friendly to you if you won immunity. And the way he acted; I think he hates me more now." "So, they are probably piling all their votes on the same person." Rocky sighs. "Maybe we do need to play the idol after all." "But that is what Rhett said Louie wanted you to do," says Vaclav. "You think he's right?" "Actually, yeah," says Rocky. "Louie wants me to lose the idol. But it's my idol, why shouldn't I play it the way I want?" //"The moment people know you have an idol, you lose almost all of its protection," says Rocky. "And since Denine can't keep her trap shut, and Louie can't keep his grubby paws off my junk, no homo, I'm not going to be looking out for them at all. So, if they think that idol is going to save them tonight, make sure to capture their horrified faces. I imagine it would look something like this:" Rocky's jaw drops, he holds his cheeks, and he fakes a horrified and mildly offended expression.// "If you are going to play it," says Vaclav, "then we need to do it in a way that gets the others to vote with us." "Right, because Denine and Louie don't have the guts to turn on me anymore." Rocky smirks. "So, we have six options tonight. You got another bright idea?" $v[**Tribal Council**] The eight members of the Ochalibas tribe file into tribal council with their torches. They sit down on the eight seats arranged in a semicircle around the fire. $v["Let's bring in the first member of our jury,"] says Vincent. $v["Paula, voted out at the last tribal council."] Paula enters the tribal council building from a side door. She adjusts her wide-brimmed sun hat as she walks in. She is also wearing a white blouse, a black skirt, and black flats with light gray trim. She smiles gently as she takes a seat on the jury bench. $v["Paula is only here to observe. She will not address any of you, and you are not to address her. Candace, you couldn't vote last time, and you were clearly fired up about how the vote went down."] "Yeah, Rhett really screwed us over," says Candace. "And don't even try defending yourself again! Your reasoning was total bunk and we all know it!" "Are you on our side or not?" Rhett snaps. "I could be asking you the same question," Candace replies. "I saw you talking with Denine earlier, are you two a thing now?" "Ew, no!" Denine interjects. "A 'thing'? You can't be serious, Candace." "Okay, that's obviously not what I meant," says Candace. "The answer you're looking for is yes, Denine is trying to make an alliance with Rhett," says Louie. $v["Rhett, what does Louie mean by 'trying'?"] "Well, I can't exactly trust Candace, Ashleia, and Buddy to make the right decisions anymore," says Rhett. "So, I've been talking to Denine about my options, because she has been consistent and honest." "Consistently honest that she doesn't respect you," Buddy replies. "Yeah, okay, if I tell him to flip and his first response is 'maybe I will'," says Denine, "maybe there's some underlying problem in your own alliance. For all I know, a lack of respect could be exactly what it is, so don't point at me." $v["Ashleia, it seems to be that there's still a division in the tribe, right down the middle."] "It's pretty much that," says Ashleia. "Like, we can only really say 'hey can you maybe target this person before me' because I don't think anyone really wants to flip? Like, Rhett sometimes says he does, but other times he's saying how important it is to keep us together." Candace turns to face Rhett. "Whose side are you really on?" she asks. "Whichever side will eliminate the vilest, truest scourge of this game," Rhett replies. "Do not elaborate on that," says Vaclav. "Vincent doesn't need to know." "Of course, because he's the one pulling all the strings!" $v["I... what?"] "You heard me. You're doing everything in your power to get me out because you don't want me to blow the lid on your little money-laundering scheme," says Rhett. "That's why you engineered that perfect breeze to stop me winning immunity today, just so Vaclav could win instead because he's on your payroll!" $v["Hold on, what exactly are you accusing me of?"] "Rhett thinks that this whole game is part of some, like, conspiracy to take over the world or something," says Ashleia. "And yet he's still playing fair, which is bizarre. If it was really that bad, why are you following the rules that are supposed to have you fail?" "You want to give them an excuse to eject me, instead?" Rhett asks. "No, because you don't know what you're talking about!" Ashleia snaps. "There is no conspiracy, okay? Vincent Boucher is not some kind of big executive with greased palms that's messing around with TV shows! Like, I just don't see it!" "You don't know what secrets he's hiding from us back home," says Rhett. "I do, because I did my research," Ashleia replies. "I mean, I drive a fancier car than him! Are you going to accuse me of being part of some evil plan, now?" $v["I can't believe what I'm hearing."] "This has been going on for weeks!" Rocky protests. "He told me that he thought I was a drug lord! He's insane." "We're not voting him out," says Denine. "Stick to the plan," Louie adds. "Rocky, he's the one thing that can break apart that alliance." $v["Buddy, what's going through your head right now?"] "Just that tonight has confirmed that I was right all along," Buddy explains. "My first tribe was a disaster and as individuals they aren't any better at all. You only have to look at who we're dealing with to realize that." "Ouch," Paula says quietly. $v["Well, I think I've heard enough. Vaclav, do you want to give up immunity?"] "No," says Vaclav. $v["Then it's time to go and vote. Buddy, you are up first."] ... Ashleia casts her vote for **Rocky**. "Like, I'm really sorry about this, but you probably have an idol, and we won't need you to flip if our alliance is still in tomorrow." Denine casts her vote for **Ashleia**. "You're the glue to the resistance. If you leave, all bets are off, which is exactly what I need to happen." ... $votesarein "Not yet!" Rocky springs from his seat. "I know you guys were expecting me to play this, so here goes." He walks over to Vincent and hands him a bracelet. "This is for me, because nobody else deserves it." $v["Well, we could have done without that part,"] says Vincent, as he takes the bracelet from Rocky. $v["Rocky is playing a hidden immunity idol. All votes cast for Rocky will not count."] "We're screwed," says Buddy. "No, we aren't!" Rhett jumps up from his seat and rushes over to Vincent. "Yeah, I can't risk this." Candace stands up as well and follows Rhett. "Play it wrong, play it wrong, play it wrong..." Vaclav mutters under his breath. Vincent takes the golden bracelet from Rhett, and a wooden bracelet on a green string from Candace. $v["Who are you playing these on?"] he asks. "For myself," Rhett and Candace say in unison. $v["Rhett... this is NOT a hidden immunity idol. Candace... this IS a hidden immunity idol. All votes cast for Candace will not count, but those cast for Rhett will."] "Are you kidding me!?" Rhett shouts. Candace wordlessly, and almost breathlessly, heads back to her seat. "Can I have, like, the bracelet back now?" Ashleia asks. "Since we all know it doesn't have any power." "Vincent," Paula calls out from the jury bench, "I highly recommend you don't. She got it at the final 10 by basically mugging a skeleton." Ashleia looks back at Paula with shock and slight disgust. $v["Then no."] Vincent tucks the golden bracelet into his pocket. "You knew it was a fake?" Rhett asks. "I didn't know," Ashleia replies. "I thought it might be when Candace said the idols were bracelets. Worth a shot, right?" Rhett grits his teeth and heads back to his seat. $v["First vote... Rocky. Does not count."] "Really? You were just feeding me lies?" Rocky asks, flatly and with annoyance. "We wanted you to help vote Vaclav out," Rhett snaps. "And immunity was fixed for him, so there was no point." $v["Rocky. Invalid."] "You picked the right time to play that," Buddy admits begrudgingly. $v["Rocky. That's three votes for Rocky, which do not count."] Candace looks nervous, hoping that she correctly guessed where the other votes were going. $v["Ashleia. One vote Ashleia."] Ashleia gasps. Her hands raise slowly to cover her mouth. Louie and Denine let their hands sit at waist level, and quietly fist bump. $v["Ashleia. That's two votes for Ashleia."] "Still waiting for that fourth Rocky vote," Rhett mutters. Ashleia looks around, trying to see if one of her allies is looking guilty. $v["Next vote... Rhett."] "Should not count," says Rhett. "And yet it does," says Candace. "Funny." $v["Rhett. He is now tied with Ashleia."] Denine does some quick mental math, then whips around to face Rocky. "Are you seriously that dumb?" "What did I do?" Rocky tries to hold back a smirk but fails miserably. $v["Final vote..."] $v["Rocky, does not count."] Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, and Rhett all look very confused. Denine looks visibly upset, Rocky is grinning, and Louie and Vaclav look on without much expression. $v["We have a tie. There will be a revote, where you may only vote for one of Ashleia or Rhett."] "I think you guys should know that Denine and I voted against Ashleia," says Louie. "I recommend you join us. Ashleia is the most well-liked person here, she hasn't done anything to make any of you mad at her, and the only jury member we have had a strong relationship with her. You might want to take her to the end, but all of us know she's not as stupid as she sounds. Candace, Buddy, if you vote against Ashleia tonight, then you won't be a threat to us anymore." "Buddy, I know we don't like each other, but we've both made enemies. Ashleia hasn't," Denine adds. "Vote Ash, and we can have the majority over Rhett, Rocky, and Vaclav. There's no way those three can team up." "Rocky and I teamed up to vote Rhett," says Vaclav. "Vote him out with us, and we can get out Denine and Louie. If we get Rhett out, he won't vote for me or Rocky to win." "Denine just admitted tonight that she wants to work with Rhett," says Rocky. "She's not going to throw that away for you guys. Our plan was to vote A, B, and C, and if you vote Ashleia, that will still happen." Buddy stands up. "I don't think I want to work with any of you. Candace, come over here. Let's talk this over." Candace obliges, and the two quietly whisper which way they should go, until Rhett gets up and joins them. Ashleia sees this and comes in as well. "They're trying to divide us," says Rhett quietly. "You two need to split it between me and Ashleia. Vaclav is safe, Rocky is safe, and Candace, you played an idol. Ash and I will be safe if we go to rocks, then it's a 2 out of 3 chance that Denine or Louie leaves. That's the strongest bond in that group." "Buddy, are you okay with that?" Ashleia asks. "I know it sucks, but like it's our only option." Buddy grimaces. "I..." He backs away from the group slowly. "I can't do that." "Seriously?" Candace looks disappointed. "No way in hell." Buddy shakes his head. "I am not going to take a 33% chance of eliminating myself for a guy who //stole your vote// and made us lose Paula!" "Buddy, you were the ones who betrayed ME!" Rhett protests. "For the last fucking time! No, we did not! We almost got Louie on the jury, Paula would still be here, Vaclav would still be with us, and we wouldn't be talking about 'ooh I sure do hope I don't pick the wrong rock'! Why should I put my game on the line for your mistake!? I shouldn't!" Vaclav looks at Louie and Denine. "If you change your votes, Candace cannot force rocks." "You and Rocky should be the ones switching," Louie replies. "We had an agreement to vote out Ashleia." "I can't live with him for another second!" Vaclav snaps. Buddy, meanwhile, looks Candace in the eyes. "Candace, do you really want to risk losing someone who's completely loyal to you? You already did three days ago. You can't afford to again." Candace wrings her hands together. "Don't feel like I'm playing with your life on this one, Buddy." "Think about who you're risking this for," says Buddy. "If I get rocked out, where does that leave you?" "Think about the greater good!" Rhett snaps. "Not going to rocks is giving this game up to the enemy!" Candace shuts her eyes tight for a few seconds, then opens them. "Okay. I've... I've decided." She and her alliance return to their seats. "I hope you know what you're doing," says Ashleia. "It all comes down to luck," Rhett replies. "but it's all we have left." "Shut up, Rhett," says Candace. Rhett glares at Candace. "Excuse me?" "You heard me. I'm not taking your crap." Candace glares back. "I'm voting you out." "Aha! Just as I predicted!" Rhett turns his focus to Buddy. "Candace was commiserating with them all along. You have to vote Ashleia!" "We aren't going to rocks," says Buddy, "not after the way you've repeatedly screwed us and blamed us because you couldn't read the room. I'm not your therapist, nobody here is secretly evil or a government agent, and you aren't as clever as you think you are! You're untrustworthy, you're not worth keeping here!" "Atta boy!" Rocky shouts with glee, while clapping loudly. "Shit. We had a good case, until he did his thing," Denine gripes. "I'm so, so, sorry guys," says Ashleia. "We shouldn't have to be doing this." "It's not your fault," says Candace, "we got played. This is just the best for us moving forward." "Well, after all this, I'm not going to switch," says Rocky. "Fine, I'm changing to Rhett," says Denine, annoyed. "I'll change, too," Louie says. "You pack of Judases!" Rhett protests. $v["I would ask you to go and revote, but it sounds like you've come to a unanimous decision,"] says Vincent. Vaclav nods. "Rhett, I would apologize, but you're the one in the wrong." "See ya," says Candace. "What?!? You can't do that! At least stick to your own rules and have votes be cast," Rhett yells. "You can't just breach them whenever it's convenient! I can see right through you, Vincent! You and your sham processes!" Vincent pulls out a cell phone and sends a quick message. Within seconds, three or four security guards rush into the tribal council buildings from every exit. Two of them grab Rhett by the upper arms and begin to carry him away. "You can kill the messenger, but you can never kill the message!" Rhett shrieks. "You can't edit this out! The truth is already out there, Vincent Boucher! The world will learn how much of a fiend you really are!" As the security guards carry Rhett out of the tribal council hut kicking and screaming, he continues to shout and cry about the injustice of it all, until his distant voice is overpowered by the sound of the rain that had begun to come down around them. Vincent claps his hands together. $v["Ashleia. Can you bring me Rhett's torch, please?"] Ashleia nods, gets up, and brings Vincent the tall Southerner's torch. $v["''Rhett'' is the tenth $boot, and pending a possible psych re-evaluation, the second $juror."] Vincent snuffs the torch. $v["Tonight was a hectic night, but maybe too hectic, seeing as in the end you all voted for peace, quiet, and harmony. You may head back to camp."] Voting Results: Ashleia – Denine, Louie Rhett – Rocky, Vaclav ~~Rocky~~ – Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, Rhett (void) Revote: ''Rhett – Buddy, Candace, Denine, Louie, Rocky, Vaclav'' [[Ponderosa<-Read Ponderosa Special]] [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

**Ponderosa** Paula sits on a recently made king bed, feet resting on the floor to the side of the bed. She watches, worriedly, as someone begins to wake up from on top of the bed next to her. "Good morning," she says gently. The other person groans and pushes himself up. His dark blond hair is messy and somewhat tangled, and he is still wearing the jacket and pants he wore the previous day. "Do you feel okay, Rhett?" Paula asks. "I'm so hungry," Rhett replies. "I've been waiting for you to get up so we can grab some breakfast." Paula stands up and brushes off the seat of her shorts. "If it's anything like the past few days, you'll love it." After a quick shower and change of clothes, Rhett walks out of the bedroom, down a bright hallway with a high ceiling, and into the dining room. Paula is sitting down at the table, waiting to dig into some sausages, French toast, and scrambled eggs. "Were you able to scrub off all the pain and suffering?" Paula jokes. Rhett wordlessly pulls out a chair, across the table from her, and sits down. He grabs a plate and a fork, then starts loading his plate. Paula begins to put some food on her own plate. //"I did a little spot check when I was in the shower," says Rhett. "I always do, to check for any bumps, cuts, scrapes, or microchips. I was definitely roughed up more than I expected I would be out there."// "So, did you sleep well last night?" Paula asks. "Best sleep I've had in a month," Rhett replies. "Yeah, I almost felt the same way," says Paula. "I think I actually slept better the night after we voted off Jackie." "I can see that." Rhett pours some imitation maple syrup on his French toast and sausages. "A voice like that is one you want on your good side, and she didn't want you on her good side." "If I didn't make jury and had to be stuck with her, I would be mortified." Paula smiles. "Anyone you're glad isn't here?" Rhett does not hesitate to answer. "Definitely Lisa. She would be giving me dirty looks and yelling at me the entire time for voting her out." The two finish off their breakfast, with Rhett having seconds and thirds. "I really couldn't go for another bite," says Rhett. Paula laughs. "Better than starving! That's what I told myself when I got here, and I had like six plates. Now that was a bad idea – my body was still in starvation mode. I felt so nauseous that I thought I might skip last night's tribal council." "Right," says Rhett. "I think that getting control over my blood sugar is more important than lunch." "More pizza for me!" Paula grins. "I gotta show you something when that comes around. Have you ever had a 'redneck panzerotti'?" //"A 'redneck panzerotti' is when you get two slices of pizza and flip one over, so both of them have the bottom crust facing outwards," Paula explains, "then you eat both slices at the same time. It's a big hit where I grew up, but all my college friends call it disgusting. Doesn't bother me, though."// Later that morning, Rhett and Paula head to an upstairs lounge room to chat. "I've been waiting for someone else to get here," says Paula. "There's a tennis court in the terrace! And when someone finally does come, it rains." "Life's like that," says Rhett. He takes a drink of sweet tea. "Did you think anyone in particular was going to show up here?" "Don't take this the wrong way," says Paula, "but I thought it was going to be you. I'm pretty sure Vaclav flipped, so I didn't think he would run back to you guys right away." Rhett nods. "You are correct. Our alliance was actually talking about getting Rocky to flip." "Then why did you vote against him?" "We didn't want to," Rhett explains. "Our plan was Vaclav, but he won immunity and then Louie showed me Rocky's idol. He dumped everything in Rocky's bag out, and just showed me the idol on top." "What an ass," says Paula. "I know, right?" Rhett rolls his eyes. "Why I didn't say something about it, I have no idea." "Because it was at Rocky's expense, so you didn't have a problem with it," Paula replies. "Probably." Rhett leans in towards Paula. "I couldn't stand that guy." "We know," says Paula. //"The longer I was out there, the less sense everything made," says Rhett. "I was fatigued and starving, I felt like my entire body was atrophying, and I was surrounded by people with inferior intellect. After I was blindsided and Monty left, it was like I was having a constant out-of-body experience. I remember voting, but everything else was a flurry of emotion. Survivor is not a joke."// "Are you starting to think about who you want to win?" Paula asks. Rhett finishes off his glass of sweet tea, and puts it down. "Perhaps the biggest mystery of them all. We shall see." [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 31 Ochalibas**] The tribe of seven arrives back at camp with their torches, most of them feeling down – except for two. "Whew, what a relief," says Rocky. "We're finally free of that paranoid little gremlin." "Thank you, everyone," says Vaclav. //"Rhett is gone, and I'm very happy about that," Vaclav says. "He was causing the most problems. I think we should have at least one peaceful round before things... get ugly again."// "I appreciate you guys not, like, blindsiding me," says Ashleia. "You would have done the same thing," says Denine. "I was talking to Vaclav, who actually didn't vote for me," Ashleia replies. "I'm ashamed in myself that I ever trusted you." "Do I need to spell it out for you?" asks Denine. "I didn't come here to make friends." "Real original," says Buddy. "Well, what do you expect me to say?" Denine snaps. "I think she's looking for 'I'm sorry, it wasn't personal'," says Candace. //"Denine has the tact of a brick," says Candace. "You need to be in the perfect spot to get away with talking like that, and right now she's not in that spot."// "Can we agree to just call it a night?" Louie asks. "I don't know about the rest of you, but my ears are ringing from tribal council." The tribe agrees, and they slowly tuck in for the night. $m[**Day 32**] //"The biggest obstacle to my game is out," says Rocky. I don't care how much of a distraction Rhett was, he was just in the way. I gotta be able to talk to Candace, Ashleia, and Buddy again."// "Candace," Rocky asks, "did you really think you could get me out just because Vaclav was safe?" "We had to get rid of the idol," says Candace. "If anything went wrong, I would play mine." "But you didn't even play it on the right person," Rocky replies. "What does it matter? You got what you wanted in the end, didn't you?" "Well, I don't want to just be voted out next!" //"Rocky just forced us to turn on an ally," says Candace, "and regardless of how we felt about the guy who left, I don't believe that we somehow faulted him by voting against him when he was never going to vote with us."// "Nobody has any reason to protect you," Candace explains. "After our first tribe completely derailed and your second tribe put you on the bottom right away, you should have wised up a little. The only thing you've done of interest to our entire alliance is piss us off and force us to debate going to rocks." "It was only one round! Do you think I'm going to just sit back and coast through the game if I know nobody wants to see me succeed?" Rocky folds his arms. "Trust me, if there was anyone in this game that was actually fun and interesting enough for me to be loyal to, I wouldn't be running around and getting in everyone's business." "Cool pitch," says Candace. "You completely and utterly failed to convince me to do anything for you ever." "I'm not asking to borrow a cup of sugar," says Rocky. "I'm asking if you want to be wearing a red buff tomorrow." //"Now that Candace knows what it feels like to be on the bottom, I'm not going to let up," says Rocky. "My allies can't afford to vote me out, so if she wants to not be the next to go, she needs to work with me."// Vaclav and Louie are sitting together, on rocks near the riverbank. "We need to get to the bottom of what happened last night," says Louie. "Why did you do that?" "I thought I was clear," says Vaclav. "Rhett was making my life hard, so I had to vote him out." "You didn't tell me or Denine," says Louie. "You made us look like idiots because Rocky wanted to put on a spectacle." "I did not do that for Rocky," Vaclav replies. "He just wanted to play his idol, and I feel like sometimes the fewer people know what you're doing, the better." "Do you trust Rocky more than you trust me?" Louie asks. "No, but you wanted to keep Rhett because that is what Denine wanted," says Vaclav. "Do you trust Denine more than you trust me? Actually, don't answer. We all know you do." //"Perhaps I made it a little too obvious to Vaclav that he's my second ally," says Louie. "Although, he knows he's stuck with us now. When it gets down to four or five, if he thinks Rocky's going to come out on top over me and Denine, he's seriously mistaken."// "So, what's your point? Do you just want to rub it in my face that you aren't voting with us?" Louie challenges him. "I stopped you from making a bad call," Vaclav replies. "Rhett just woke up one day and decided I was a bad person. What if that happened to you?" "I would rather keep someone who might have worked with me over someone who would never work with me," says Louie. "Ashleia is the biggest threat in this game right now, and you and Rocky just saved her ass." "Rhett would never work with me, either," says Vaclav. "That was what made my decision." //"Whether Ashleia or Rhett left last night," Vaclav explains, "I think we would have the majority. It should not matter which of them left. I'm sure Louie is upset because he and Denine wanted him to replace me in their alliance."// "Now we absolutely need to rely on Rocky's vote," says Louie. "That's what I was trying to avoid. We need him to vote for one of Ashleia, Buddy, or Candace." "Yeah," says Vaclav. "They won't flip on each other yet." Meanwhile, the rest of the tribe is sitting by the shelter discussing what they're going to do next. "I think we should think about voting one of those two out," says Buddy. "Denine, Rocky, Louie's close with both of you. If you take him to the end, he's got the rest of your alliance's votes, and nobody else really cares either way." "I don't think that's your call to make," says Denine. "Why should we vote out one of our own when we only have a one-person advantage?" "You want to just tie yourself down to the divisions we have now?" Candace asks. "I might as well," says Denine. "I have no reason to trust you guys. We were never on the same tribe-" "Hey, I voted Jarrett with you," Candace interjects. "Sure, you did!" Denine snaps. "But neither of your friends did, so that's 1 out of 3. Not really enough for me to go off." //"We ended up splitting the vote last time," says Denine, "but we're still in a voting bloc. I don't want to vote Louie out just yet, he's the only person here I'm not sick to death of. I'd much prefer to break up the trio before I do anything else, so any plan that involves all of them in the final six is dead on arrival."// "Denine, we really would rather work with you," says Ashleia. "You don't have to, like, throw our offer right back at us without a second thought." "If it's not a good deal for me," says Denine, "then I'm not doing it." "Speak for yourself," says Rocky. "I'd be down to vote one of those guys out." "I knew we could get you on board." Buddy claps one time. "Who's the better target?" "Either one would work," Candace suggests. "I was actually asking Rocky," says Buddy. "Nice try," says Rocky. "I'm sensing a trap there. I know you guys aren't going to just follow my lead after flushing my idol." "I can't believe you're actually considering this," says Denine. //"Rocky's idol is gone," says Ashleia. "He doesn't look like he's in a hurry to find it again, so we can go back to our plan of voting out someone else. If he wants to help us, then that's sweet! That gives me more choices for the next, um, round."// Candace and Denine split off from the group, leaving Rocky to talk with Ashleia and Buddy. "You know, if you want to vote off Denine instead, we won't stop you," says Buddy. "As long as you're aware that you shouldn't just pick us off one by one." "Yeah, but of course you would tell me that," says Rocky. "You said it yourself last night," Buddy adds. "We're, like, just thinking about where Vaclav's place is, here," says Ashleia. "He's, like, dangerous because he's strong, and he's nicer than Denine and Louie." "I'm not sure he's nice enough to overcome some of his... quirks, in the end," says Buddy. "Plus, if he leaves that won't hurt Denine and Louie. If we keep Vaclav in, we can vote one out and screw over the other with the same vote." //"The swap taught me that Denine and Louie together are much stronger and more motivated than they are separated," says Buddy. "They will fervently defend each other. But we're in the endgame now; if we vote one of them out, who does the other have left? Vaclav and maybe Rocky? That's either an easy vote, or an easy victory."// Candace continues to talk strategy with Denine after the two had left. "So, you're really stuck on the idea of your alliance of four sticking together," says Candace. "We have no other choice," says Denine. "Rocky screwed us over – if we had just gotten rid of Ashleia, we wouldn't need him anymore." "If we had just gotten rid of Rocky, we wouldn't have needed Rhett," says Candace. "Seems like we're at a stalemate," says Denine. //"Rocky's play completely threw us all off," says Candace. "He foiled our plans, and in response we foiled Denine and Louie's. So, basically, he and Vaclav dictated the entire night since they knew none of us would go to rocks."// "How about this," says Candace. "If we can't come to an agreement, let Rocky do whatever he wants. It's probably not going to be either of us two. Then the next round, we vote out someone else who voted with him." Denine takes a moment to consider this. "Alright. If Rocky sticks with us, I'll flip, and we vote Vaclav out after." "And if Rocky goes with us," says Candace, "I'll flip to you guys." "And who would you vote for...?" Denine asks. "Truth be told, I'm not sure I can pick between my allies," Candace replies. "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it." //"I definitely like this deal a lot more," says Denine. "We can toss Buddy or Ashleia, then Candace won't even be mad, and she'll just let me vote out Vaclav. That will tick everyone off at her and will leave me in the final five with a minimum of three people I can safely take to the end. It won't be a cakewalk, but I don't doubt my ability to pull it off."// [[Day 33<-Read Day 33]]

**Day 33 Reward Challenge** The seven remaining members of the Ochalibas tribe arrive at the challenge area. The first thing they notice is the presence of a two-row bench structure. $v["Today we'll be having a reward auction,"] says Vincent. $v["This one will go a little differently, however. The Inca civilization didn't use money as we know it. Labour was taxed by the imperial government, and the debts were repaid with food for the labourers. In that same vein, you will be bartering for rewards with coupons. At the end of the auction, you will redeem your remaining coupons for food. Take your seats, and let's get started."] $t[//Later//] $v["Take a look at your coupons to see what you will be bartering with,"] Vincent suggests. $v["Each one corresponds to one item of food. You have two coupons worth one pork chop each, two coupons worth one baked potato each, one coupon worth a small fry basket, one coupon worth a bowl of Caesar salad, one coupon worth a slice of angel food cake, and three drinks coupons. One is for pulp free lemonade, one is for cola, and one is for a red wine. You also have one blank coupon, hold onto it for now."] Everyone looks over their coupons and sorts them the way they want to. The first item up for grabs is a letter from home. Ashleia bids with one coupon, Buddy outbids her with two, Ashleia outbids him with three, and Buddy outbids her again with four coupons. One, two, three... Buddy gives up coupons for both baked potatoes, cola, and wine for a letter from home. He elects to read it privately. The next item is a warm, relaxing shower. Candace bids with two coupons, and nobody challenges her. One, two, three... Candace exchanges the coupons for cake and wine. Vincent reveals the intent of the blank coupon – at the end of the auction, it will be exchanged for getting to spend the afternoon with a friend or family member from home. Candace is told she will get her shower before they arrive. The next item is an ice-cold bottle of beer to go with their meal. Denine immediately bids with three coupons. One, two... Rocky bids with four coupons just in time, and Denine bids with five coupons. This time, Rocky doesn't try to outbid her. Denine exchanges coupons for one pork chop, one baked potato, the salad, the cola, and her family visit coupon for a beer coupon. The next item is a fresh change of clothes – shirt, pants, socks, and underwear. Vaclav starts the bid with one coupon, Ashleia responds with a bid for two coupons. Louie bids with three. One, two, three... Louie gives up coupons for salad, cake, and lemonade, and is told he will get his clothes before the family visit. The next item is a large chocolate sundae. Buddy starts with one coupon, and Rocky raises it to two. Vaclav raises to three. One, two... Rocky again raises to four at the last second. He looks over at Vaclav, who grins and shrugs. Rocky's expression quickly sours. Rocky wins the bid but doesn't look so happy about having to give up a potato, a salad, the cake slice, and lemonade for it. The final item is a black T-shirt with a white graphic, and white text reading "Never Mess with a Canadiens Fan Who Was Born in August". There are no takers, until Buddy puts in a single coupon bid that nobody challenges. One, two, three... Buddy hands over his family visit coupon for the T-shirt, which he promptly uses to wipe his face. $t[//Later//] The seven contestants are sitting on the bench, eager for their reward. Louie is wearing a fresh and clean outfit, and Candace's hair is dripping wet. $v["Now that some of you have enjoyed your first rewards,"] says Vincent, $v["it's time for the main event. Based on the coupons you have remaining, each of you will get a substantial lunch, that is sure to give you a much-needed boost of energy for the final stretch of the competition. We will also be bringing in some special guests to dine with you."] "Are they previous players that are fawned over by production?" Louie asks. $v["No, of course not. It's your visitors, if you held onto your family visit coupon,"] Vincent explains. $v["Without further ado, take your seats at the table behind me, where your food will be waiting at the chair with your name on it."] Everyone walks over to the table and stands behind their seats. They notice that all of them are seated on one side of the table, except for Buddy who is seated opposite of Denine. $v["You might not to sit down yet,"] says Vincent. $v["Louie, we've brought out one of your surfing students, AJ!"] Ashleia looks slightly surprised. "Louie surfs?" "And he's an instructor?" Buddy adds. "Poor girl." AJ, a slim, female anthropomorphic otter, steps into the challenge arena wearing a very light green t-shirt and blue athletic shorts. Upon seeing Louie, her face lights up, and she enthusiastically hugs him. "Oof! Personal space, AJ," Louie mutters. "I missed you!" AJ responds. "That's from everyone back home." Louie doesn't look too enthused by this response. "No reply? Geez, he's cold," Candace whispers to herself. As AJ walks around to the other end of the table across from Louie, Vincent introduces the next visitor. $v["Rocky, for you we have your, um, business partner, Shade."] "Business partner?" Denine chuckles. "Yeah, okay. We all know what that really means." Some of the other contestants smile or try to stifle laughter. Ashleia does not; she simply looks distraught. "Don't be, like, rude," says Ashleia. "Rocky, it doesn't matter who you love, we'll always accept you." Shade steps into the challenge area, wearing a gray fedora and a gray suit and tie. His arrival is largely unnoticed by the others, including Rocky himself. "We actually do just work together," Rocky protests. "Do I look gay to you, Ash?" "Say that again," Buddy snaps. "It's a joke, not a wiener, don't take it so hard," Louie says to Rocky. Shade, having now reached the table, sighs. "Is he giving you a hard time?" "Which one of them is 'he'?" Vaclav asks. $v["Let's move on,"] says Vincent. $v["Ashleia, your boyfriend Crimsonton is here."] Ashleia looks absolutely delighted as her dark blond-haired boyfriend steps into the challenge area. Crimsonton is sporting a white visor and black sunglasses, a maroon polo shirt, pearly white pants, and a black belt and shoes. He is a few inches taller than Ashleia and about the same height as Vaclav. "Good afternoon, gorgeous," he says to Ashleia, placing his right hand on hers. "It's great to see you, handsome," Ashleia replies, softly gripping his hand. "I'm so proud of you, my little Amazon angel," says Crimsonton. Ashleia blushes and kisses him on the cheek. "Disgusting," says Rocky. Vincent moves on to reveal the next visitor. $v["Vaclav, for you we have brought out your mother, Johana."] Vaclav gasps, and rushes over to meet his mom – a portly woman with dark brown hair, a gray shirt, and black pants – as she arrives at the challenge area. The two share a big, strong hug, and the two exchange greetings in Czech. When Vaclav leads his mom to the table, he says "Oh, maminka, I missed you and the family so much." Johana smiles. "You make us all very very proud, Vaclav. Everyone happy for you doing so well." Shade turns to Rocky. "I know you're thinking of saying something. Please don't." $v["We have one more visitor to bring out, and Candace, it's for you,"] says Vincent. $v["Here he is: your brother, Martin."] Candace runs over in the same way as Vaclav, and upon seeing her brother – a young man with the same tan skin and medium brown hair, wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans – she hugs him tightly, beginning to tear up. "I was hoping I would get to see you here," Candace tells him quietly. "Well, I'm here now," says Martin, with a bit of a smirk. "Are you doing alright?" Candace nods, then wipes tears out of her eyes. The two of them walk to the table and take their seats, noticing Rocky has already slipped into his chair and is two bites into his first pork chop. "I guess it's time to eat," says Crimsonton. Shade shakes his head. "I'm so sorry about Rocky." "It's our fault for not having voted him out earlier," Candace replies. Denine looks at Buddy. "So, you didn’t have anyone come either?" "I got the letter from home," Buddy replies. "That's all I need. I can't afford to be distracted." Denine shrugs. "I guess that makes sense." "How about you?" Buddy asks. "I wanted a drink...?" Denine answers, as if she had made it perfectly clear already. //"We're getting close to the end," says Buddy. "Once I had the letter from home, I knew that would inspire me enough. I was afraid of having a visitor who would ask me about Paula. It was a difficult decision, but I needed to do it for my game. I don't know what Denine's excuse is, though, this isn't even the first time she's won a beer reward."// $m[**Ochalibas**] After a filling meal, the tribe of seven returned to their camp, joined by five loved ones. Some contestants took the opportunity to privately catch up with their guests, such as Candace, who found a secluded area to talk with her brother. "You know, I thought you were insane to try something like this," says Martin. "It was always weird to think about, but I thought it wouldn't take very long before you realized you needed support back home. But you've done well by yourself." "I came awfully close a few times," Candace replies. "Someone I thought I could trust flat out lied to me so I could vote out someone he didn't trust. I wanted to deck him for that." "Well, everyone gets tense in times like these," says Martin. "I have had basically no time to myself since I got here," says Candace. "Rocky has not left me alone ever since we started. He's immature, obnoxious, selfish, mean, and we just can't seem to get rid of him. You know what's helped me get over it, though?" "No, tell me." "Absolutely nothing." "Is he like that with everyone?" Martin asks. "Yeah, he is! The only people who vote with him are people who have nowhere else to go," Candace explains. "I want him gone so badly, but right now he's putting himself right in the middle of two alliances. We were so close to getting him out last time, too." Martin raises an eyebrow. "So, how are you going to do it this time?" "I don't plan on it," says Candace. "I have a deal with someone on the other side that we don't go after each other. We'll completely keep the power away from Rocky, and if I can survive 33 days with Rocky getting his way, I can survive 6 days with him not getting his way." "You definitely sound more confident now," says Martin. "I missed this side of you." "I guess you could say it took a trial by fire to get me to, well, see my own strength again." //"I've seen what emotion can do to someone in this game," says Candace. "I can't let it cloud my judgment. I need to stop caving, doubting myself, trying to be someone I'm not, because that never helped me to develop a winning game."// Meanwhile, Ashleia is sitting with her boyfriend Crimsonton by the river. "It was, like, really close," says Ashleia. "I had never gotten any votes from anyone before. I didn't know how to feel about it! I was just stunned, you know?" "That must have been scary," says Crimsonton. "Like, absolutely! It was really tricky because the two people whose votes I needed to stay were my best friends." Ashleia brushes a stray hair out of her face. "They had to choose between me and someone else in our alliance, so like we were losing someone either way. I'm not going to let this second chance go to waste." "Second chance? No way, babe," says Crimsonton. "You weren't going anywhere. You are doing amazing, sweetie. Stellar, even." "It just... it gets harder every time," Ashleia says. "These people are hungry, Crim. You know how much the million means to these people? I heard one person say they'd buy a pool for their backyard. Like, if they don't have a private pool, what //do// they have?" "They could just have a golf club membership instead," Crimsonton replies. "You know, my one friend who lives in an apartment does that." "I don't think that's the case." Ashleia frowns. "Buddy told me that people who have golf club memberships have too much money and deserve to be mugged." Crimsonton gasps. "How barbaric. You should not be hanging around violent punks like that." "I trust him in this game," says Ashleia, "and right now that's what matters most." "Babe... don't let him get your guard down," says Crimsonton. "Keep sticking up for yourself, alright? Remind everyone that you've gotten where you are because of you and nobody else." Ashleia nods. //"This experience has been really eye-opening," says Ashleia. "It's a culture shock, just to interact with some people who I would normally only see on street corners. ...Oh! No, not like that! I mean, like, in the public sphere."// Rocky and Louie took to the shelter with their visitors. "Louie," says AJ, "I'm happy to see that you've made it this far. I want to say it's inspiring." "You must have really low standards," says Rocky. Shade glares at Rocky. "That was not necessary at all." He turns to AJ. "I'm sure Louie already knows this, but Rocky doesn't know when to keep his mouth shut. Don't take what he says personally." "You see, AJ," says Louie, "the people who pay any attention to this kid are the ones who wind up tossed." "This kid? //This kid?//" Rocky narrows his eyes, and his voice rises a tone or two. "I don't think you have the right to talk to me like that." "You of all people don't get to be riled up over word choice," says Louie. "Don't get smart with me, either!" Rocky snaps. "What makes you think you have any authority here to-" "It's not about authority!" Shade interjects. "Louie thinks he runs our alliance," says Rocky, "despite having done pretty much nothing to keep it going." "That can't be true," says AJ. "It's not," Louie replies. "Rocky's only still here because nobody else had any use for him. Nobody likes or respects him, but he knows he has to stick with us because the other alliance would annihilate him in the finals. Trust me, AJ, if he wasn't so pathetic, he would have been punted right off our coattails." "Whoa, back off, Louie!" Shade snaps. "What's the big deal? He knows that's what I'm thinking," says Louie. "I can't believe I'm saying this," says Shade, "but please do not stoop to my friend's level to prove a point." "Prove a point? He's always this full of himself," Rocky replies. //"I saved Louie three rounds ago by getting Jennifer to pull herself out of the competition," says Rocky. "I was afraid that I was actually going to lose him or Denine, and I would have to cut the other loose to save myself. So, in a roundabout way, they're only this far because of me. Louie's not a masterful player, and I would love to knock him off his pedestal."// "You don't think maybe there's a reason I'm in a particularly bad mood today?" Louie retorts. "You know, something about how you went behind my back to vote off someone who could have helped us?" "The only 'us' that would have helped were you and Denine," says Rocky. "Surprise, surprise, who tried to keep him?" "Who would have gone home if it wasn't for that idol?" Louie snaps. "You think you could last a day without me here? That's cute," says Rocky. AJ looks over at Shade. "We should say something." Shade shakes his head. "It's best if we don't stick our noses into it. Rocky doesn't know when to quit, and I think he found a kindred spirit." "I've never seen Louie like this..." AJ sighs. //"It's kind of funny that Rocky's special visitor just came to confirm to us that yes, he really is that annoying and childish," says Louie. "Kind of defeats any 'it was all an act' theory and removes doubt in my mind that he would be a pretty decent goat. The big issue with that would be what to do with Denine and Vaclav."// Elsewhere at camp, Vaclav is sitting with his mother Johana, as well as Denine and Buddy. "Thanks for giving me something to do today," says Denine. "I was afraid I was going to be bored out of my mind with everyone else being sentimental and Buddy being Buddy." Buddy rolls his eyes. "It's fine," says Vaclav. "My mom and I are both fine with it." "It is great news to see you and your new friends," Johana replies. Vaclav smiles, and slightly blushes. //"Sorry, Mamka. 'Friends' is not quite true," says Vaclav. "Denine fights with Buddy too much. This is only a great opportunity to build social ties with people who are not big fans of me."// "Is everything okay back at home?" Vaclav asks. "We miss you very much, but we are all well," replies Johana. "Your brother and sister are hard at school." Buddy and Denine share a confused glance. "You mean, 'hard at work' at school, right?" Vaclav asks. "I'm saying that, yes," says Johana. Vaclav looks back at Buddy and Denine. "I'm, uh, sure you guys had visitors as well who miss you and all that." Buddy nods. "I would not have done it if I didn't have this letter." "Denine," says Vaclav, "did you get something?" "No, and it doesn't matter," says Denine. //"What does Vaclav care about whether I had someone come and visit or not?" Denine asks. "It's not like I hate my family or anything, but there's less than a week left. I need to put everything into getting the million, and then I can get home, stop looking and smelling like a drowned raccoon, and spend all the time I want with them."// "Do you three work together?" Johana asks. Vaclav shakes his head. "We do not." "Far from it," says Buddy. "We could change that," says Denine. "If you guys are up for it, we can still vote Ashleia out." "If I didn't want to do it last night, why would I do that now?" Buddy replies. "Because now you can't throw your vote onto Rhett," says Denine. "Right now, the two of us, plus Louie and Rocky, can take any of you out. I'm throwing you a lifeline, because you know things are going to change at the final six." "Why even ask me if you already have the votes?" Buddy rolls his eyes after saying this. "Because I'm not going to keep people I can't work with," says Denine. "Could we vote out Rocky instead?" Vaclav asks. "His idol is gone. Next round we can vote Louie, and then you can flip." Denine grimaces. "I don't want all of the blondies in the final five, V." "Considering what he did to Paula, I'd say it's a fair trade," says Buddy. //"I will grab any plan I can get my hands on that results in Louie and Denine's little alliance eating each other," says Buddy, "even if my own allies have nothing to do with it. I would totally be down to at least humour Vaclav for a round, but that relies on Denine thinking long term, and I'm not sure if she can do that."// After a little more back and forth, Candace approaches the group. "Guys, we have treemail. It's a big one." "Hoo boy," says Buddy. "This might mean we have to say goodbye," says Vaclav to his mother. The two exchange some more words in Czech, and Candace reads the treemail for Buddy and Denine. "We hope you had a great meal and an emotion-filled reunion," says Candace, "but it is time to move on. Today was to give you the energy you need to endure the home stretch of this competition, where starting tomorrow, immunity is up for grabs every single day." "Every day!? Great, now I'm nervous," says Buddy. "I'm nervous and hungry," says Denine. //"An immunity challenge every day," says Vaclav. "Nobody can win five days in a row. I need to be very careful about when to push, because if I win too many or not enough challenges, I could doom myself. I am surrounded by piranhas, and when they bite, I want to be out of the water."// [[Day 34<-Read Day 34]]

**Day 34 Immunity** The seven remaining contestants arrive at the challenge area and see seven sets of balance beams with small tables at the ends of each beam. "This is your next immunity challenge," says Vincent. "Each of you will have to carry letter tiles from the table on one side to the table on the other. The twist is you have to hold them using two tiles with handles attached by placing as many tiles as you can balance between the handles and holding them horizontally in front of you. If you push too hard, the blocks could slip out, and you will have to take all the dropped tiles back and start again. You have to get all the tiles to the other table, where you will arrange them to spell out a word. Not all the tiles are used. First person to get the correct word wins immunity." The contestants take their places, each next to a table with letter tiles. "For immunity, survivors ready," says Vincent, "GO!" Everyone starts putting tiles in between the handle blocks on the table, before lifting up the stacks and walking them across. Rocky and Candace try to take across the most at once, while Louie and Denine hold together shorter stacks of tiles for more control. Ashleia, Buddy, and Vaclav take an approach in between. Denine nearly makes it across the balance beam first but moves her foot a little off to the side and falls. Vaclav is the first to complete the balance beam with his first group of tiles. After a few trips up and down the balance beam, Vaclav has given himself an early lead with more than half of his tiles carried over. Ashleia and Rocky are not far behind, Buddy, Candace and Louie continue to move slowly, while the increasingly frustrated Denine is already falling out of the running. Vaclav carries over all his tiles first and starts trying to work out some patterns with the tiles. He has had little luck by the time Ashleia, Rocky, and Buddy bring all their tiles across. The four players in the lead continue trying out different combinations and words, and Candace joins them. Denine has given up, and Louie still has a few tiles to carry over. Eventually, one person figures out the solution to the puzzle: DETERMINATION. Vincent nods, and stops the challenge. "Ashleia wins immunity!" Ashleia jumps and squeals in excitement. "Congratulations, you are safe at tonight's tribal council," says Vincent. "Come over and get your necklace." Ashleia heads over to where Vincent is standing, and he puts the immunity necklace around her neck. Vincent then looks at the other six players. "Ashleia has a guaranteed spot in the final six. The rest of you, at tribal council tonight one of you will be voted out of the game and become the third member of our jury. You have the evening to talk about who that will be. You can head back to camp." $m[**Ochalibas**] //"Ashleia won immunity, which is a bit of a pain," says Denine. "Now my best bet is to try and vote out Buddy. I need Louie and Rocky to think that's my plan, at least, but then what am I supposed to say to Buddy?"// "It's not going to happen," says Denine to Vaclav. "Why, though?" Vaclav asks. "Buddy and I can only agree on voting out Rocky," says Denine. "I wanted Rocky to think I was voting against Ashleia, but now she's immune. Now I need to tell Rocky and Louie that I'm voting against Buddy. If Buddy hears it, he's going to stick with Candace and Ash." "Then we might need to vote him out," says Vaclav. "That's what I'm thinking," says Denine. "This isn't our only shot to do something by ourselves, though. I'm sure things will change when we're down to six." "We need to make it there, first," Vaclav notes. //"Denine and Buddy will not work together," says Vaclav. "This late in the game, most people cannot save all of their friends. Those two both want to, so even the slightest change in plans will ruin everything."// The two then meet up with Louie and Rocky, who are talking together. "That challenge sucked," says Louie. "It should have been a cakewalk. How did we all get beat by the runway model?" "Are you just mad that your old man body is bringing you down?" Rocky snickers. "Old man body!? I'm 24!" Louie snaps. "More like there's a 24-pack in your gut," says Rocky. Denine interrupts the two. "So, are we all okay with voting out Buddy tonight?" Vaclav and Louie nod, but Rocky crosses his arms. "Um, why him?" "Tonight was supposed to be the night Ashleia leaves," says Denine. "Now she's safe, so we don't have any other choice." "Um, I'd say we have a very clear choice," says Rocky. "We should vote out Candace." //"Candace just wasted an idol last round," Rocky explains, "so we know that most likely she doesn't have another. She and I don't need each other anymore, so I want to vote her out before she can do it to me."// "No way, she's not a threat," says Denine. "She's been 'just there' in her alliance. Buddy is Ashleia's second-in-command, we need to take him out." "That's bullcrap," says Rocky. "Vaclav, you said there was no leader or anything in that group, so there's no reason why Buddy has to go over Candace." Vaclav shakes his head. "Buddy is more dangerous. There's something he's not telling us, something which would make it a bad idea to risk having him in the end." "If you don't think you can beat Buddy, that's your problem," says Louie. "If you think you can beat Buddy," says Rocky, "why should you even worry about him?" "Denine and I have already said we're voting him," says Vaclav. "You are not forcing another tie!" "I already want to vote him anyways," says Louie. "I mean, personal reasons, I'd rather him not be at our camp anymore." "You're letting him get in your head," Rocky replies. "Just chill out. Take a step back. You know in your hearts that Candace is the bigger threat. She needs to go." "I voted Rhett with you last time," says Vaclav, "can you listen to me this time?" "Not if you're about to make a big mistake," says Rocky. //"Rocky is a child who does not know how to compromise," says Louie. "If he goes and puts down a vote for Candace, it's just going to waste all of our time and not accomplish anything."// Meanwhile, Buddy, Ashleia, and Candace are sitting in the shelter talking. "There are four of them and three of us," says Buddy, "but look at the way they voted last tribal. There's a split there, and we need to take advantage of it." "How do we go about it?" Candace asks. "If it's really two pairs in that four, we could pick a pair to take to the final five." "Depends on which pairs we all want," says Buddy. "I would rather have Denine and Louie out, and then offer Rocky and Vaclav final five." "Whatever happened to wanting revenge on Vaclav?" Candace asks. "I mean, now he's double crossed Denine and Louie as well as us," says Buddy. "We could see if they want him out, but I have a feeling that Denine is coming after me." //"Vaclav's offer was tempting," says Buddy, "but I haven't seen him or Denine since the challenge. I think that plan is dead, since they aren't even pretending to still have one."// "I think we should keep them," says Ashleia. "Vaclav and Rocky can win challenges more easily than Denine and Louie, and we don't want one of them having immunity in the final four." "You, the number one proponent for not wasting a vote on Rocky, wants Rocky out two nights in a row?" Candace asks, surprised. "No, I want to vote Vaclav," Ashleia replies. "I say we vote Louie," says Buddy. "Denine, Vaclav, and Rocky all don't really like each other. Louie is the core of that alliance, and if we take him out then they'll all be coming to us." "Rocky will flip on Louie and Denine, he will not be third to them," says Ashleia. "That puts us all in the final five no matter what. If we vote Louie, then the other three will all think they can pit the other two against each other. Like, they'll all think they will replace Louie, so they will come even closer together." //"I do not want Vaclav in the end with me," says Ashleia. "He has three people voting for him no matter what. I have to keep everyone else supporting me, and that will be really hard if I could not keep any of them in, you know?"// "I don't know, guys," says Candace. "I think we're on the right track. I'm not sure which one we should actually vote out, though." "I gave you some good reasons to vote Louie," says Buddy. "Please, Candace, can we vote Vaclav instead? I'm sure about this one," says Ashleia. Candace stops to think. "Well, on second thought... we can't make them revote because if they all stick together then either Buddy or I is going home. We need to flip someone immediately, and I think our only shot is to get Rocky to flip." "We have to ask him who to vote for, then," says Buddy. "Fantastic." "We don't, actually," says Candace. "Just look at the split; it was 2-2. It's easier for Rocky to work with Vaclav than with Louie." //"I'm not going to let my alliance walk all over me on this one," Candace explains, "and I won't let Rocky do it either. The plan – my plan – is to take out Louie. It's one simple task, and if someone can't do that for me then I don't owe them anything."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The seven members of the Ochalibas tribe file into tribal council with their torches. They sit down on the seven seats arranged in a semicircle around the fire in the exact same way as at each of their very first tribal councils. "Let's bring in the members of our jury," says Vincent. "Paula, and Rhett, voted out at the last tribal council." The two jurors enter the tribal council building from a side door. Rhett is wearing a white three-piece suit made of seersucker fabric. His face is freshly shaven, and he is sporting a blue bowtie He and Paula sit down on the jury bench. "Remember, the jurors are only here to observe," says Vincent. "They will not speak to you, and you are not to speak to them. Rocky, you finally succeeded in voting out the person who was probably your biggest enemy. How has that changed your approach?" "Not much," says Rocky. "Rhett wasn't a ringleader of any sort, I'm still surrounded by people who hate the fact that they need me." Many of the other players think about telling him that he isn't needed, but they all bite their tongues. "Ashleia, you survived the tiebreaker last time," Vincent continues, "and now you have immunity." "I know, right? It's, like, such a good feeling!" Ashleia grins. "It just shows how capable I am, you know? I don't let haters and doubters get to me." She looks over at Louie and Denine as she says this. "Haters and doubters?" Denine raises an eyebrow. "Don't play that card. You're bad for my game, that's why I was hoping you would lose. You think I would have pushed to get rid of you if- actually, no, I'm not going to just sit here and praise you, Ash. Put a cork in it." "There must still be bad blood between the two sides," says Vincent. "Buddy, do you think this is the case?" "Definitely," says Buddy. "This is the part of the game where we start looking to cross lines and not want to take just our friends to the end..." Candace's expression sours at this, but Buddy continues without noticing. "Those four as a whole, though, just refuse to budge," Buddy claims. "The three of us are together partly because nobody wants to acknowledge us." "You aren't exactly approachable," says Louie. "Who, ME?" Buddy tries to respond but instead bursts into laughter. "Anyone who isn't named Denine or Vaclav, you give them the cold shoulder," says Candace. "You're getting things mixed around, Louie." "We're trying to play the game, too," says Louie. "If you never come to any of us with anything, then we're going to keep excluding you." "Wait, are we being hostile, or forcing you to be hostile?" Buddy asks. "Get your story straight." Paula shakes her head. "I don't like the sound of this." "Vaclav," says Vincent, "if the tribe is this firmly divided, that puts you in the majority. How does that affect your game?" "I have to put my faith in Louie, Denine, and Rocky," says Vaclav. "The other alliance is not entirely wrong, though. Most of us think our best move is to keep this wall up and not risk a big shake-up that puts us at the bottom." "When you get to the end having done nothing but shielding your best buds," says Buddy, "how do you expect to win over the jury?" "That applies to you more than it applies to me," Vaclav replies. "Louie," says Vincent, "how do you decide when it's time to cross the line and break convention?" "When Buddy leaves," says Louie. "I'd be happy to talk to Candace and Ashleia about next steps if they want to, but I know I won't get anywhere with him. He has to go." "You've been saying that for weeks," Buddy replies, "yet you've gotten perfectly deep into the game with me still here." "By getting rid of your alliance, one by one?" Louie smirks. "Not really sure how that helped you at all." "The only things you actually did were voting out Jarrett and Paula," says Ashleia. "Jennifer being, uh, rejected was Rocky's fault, and you couldn't vote me out when you tried to." "Either way, none of us were leaving last round," says Louie. "Buddy and Candace made sure of that." "Okay, what even is the point of this discussion anymore?" Rocky asks. "I'm getting so bored that it's pissing me off." "It will be over soon," says Vaclav. "It better be over," says Candace. "Rocky, we're ending this. Vote out Louie with us." "That would be strategic suicide," Louie replies. "He's already a pariah as is, why the hell would he backstab the people who took pity on him?" "Pity!?" Rocky exclaims, but Candace cuts him off. "There are three of us and four of you," says Candace. "Louie is the one in the middle of your alliance. He's Denine's partner in crime. He pulled Vaclav into your group and gave you the majority. But you, he's just using you, and if Buddy leaves then he'll have no use for you, and we don't have much of a reason to stop him from taking you out." "It's still too soon," says Vaclav. "Buddy has a big reason for being eliminated as soon as possible. He and Paula are the tightest pair in this room." Both Buddy and Paula freeze in their seats. Vaclav glances at Paula's horrified expression before turning back towards the others. "You thought you could hide this from the man who openly tells you to your face that he does not trust you?" Vaclav places his hands on his knees and leans slightly forward. "From the very first tribal. Buddy, you had a chance to cripple our tribe by voting out a big provider on our tribe. Paula was the one who convinced you to vote out a negative influence on our tribe." "Okay, she was not a negative influence, first of all," says Buddy. "Well, if you did not see the trouble in her eyes, that is on you," says Vaclav. "And that same night I saw you two together at Town Square!" Rocky interjects. "Don't fall for his crazy fantasy theory!" Buddy snaps. "I'm not done yet," says Vaclav. "In the final 9 reward challenge, you and Paula never cut each others' ropes, and yet you went after Candace, who you had worked with for longer, while Paula went after Ashleia who we all thought was her favourite of that alliance." "That's a stretch," says Candace. "Buddy, you completely lost it on Rhett after Paula was eliminated, and then again on me," says Vaclav. "It struck you to the core. But after we took Rhett out, it was like you didn't care." "Because at that point I expected it," says Buddy. "Just yesterday," Vaclav continues, "you said that me letting you get your way made up for voting out Paula. No mention of Rhett. Did you just forget about him?" "Ouch," says Rhett. "You've made your point," says Rocky. "You sound like you know what you're talking about." "What!?" Buddy whips around to face Rocky. "After you backed me up on the Lisa thing, THIS time you're going to fall for the flimsy made up tribal council story?" Rocky grins. "Yeah, actually. Let's get this vote going." Louie nudges Vaclav. "You are my new favourite person," he mutters. Vaclav wipes his face with his hand, in shock that people listened to him for once. "Well, if there's nothing else to discuss, it's time to vote," says Vincent. "Ashleia, you have immunity. Do you want to give it to someone else?" "I'm sorry, but I need this tonight," says Ashleia. "Buddy, I believe in you." "Thanks, Ash," says Buddy, "but I think this is the end." "Denine, you're up first," says Vincent. ... Buddy casts his vote for **Louie**. "I'm not going to abandon Candace and Ashleia, even if the truth is out there." Louie casts his vote for **Buddy**. "So long, pal. Best wishes." ... $votesarein $v["The first vote is for Louie."] Louie wordlessly adjusts the sleeves of his nice, clean jacket. $v["Buddy."] Buddy looks at the votes being shown with little reaction. $v["Buddy. Two votes Buddy, one vote Louie."] Candace blinks. She looks saddened by the votes coming in. $v["Louie. We are tied with two votes each."] "Thanks for sticking by me," says Buddy. "I think, like, Vaclav's story looks worse on him than it does on you," Ashleia tells him. $v["Fifth vote... Buddy."] Vaclav and Denine exchange a knowing glance, but they say nothing. $v["Louie. Three votes Buddy, three votes Louie, one vote left."] "This sucks," says Candace softly. Louie looks over at Rocky, trying to discern an emotion from his face. The skunk notices, and he gives the otter a slight smile. $v["Final vote. Eleventh $boot, and the third $juror..."] Buddy looks up at Paula on the jury bench. Paula looks back at Buddy, trying to fight back a few tears of regret. $v["...is **Louie**. You need to bring me your torch."] "Oh, thank god," says Candace. She leans back and sighs in relief. Denine and Vaclav's neutral expressions turn to ones of horror. Louie glares at Rocky, who averts his eyes and smirks in satisfaction. "Whoa... thanks, Rocky," Buddy says meekly. "I should have just let you go down," Louie snarls. He gets up, stomps over to his torch, and trudges his way up to Vincent. $v["Louie, the tribe has spoken,"] says Vincent. He snuffs the surf instructor's torch. $v["Time for you to go."] "You all can bite me." Louie flips off the entire tribe as he walks out, which makes Buddy roll his eyes. $v["For a while, it seems like the battle lines have been set in stone, but everyone was waiting for the trigger that breaks it all up again,"] says Vincent. $v["Here it is."] He pauses for effect. $v["You can head back to camp."] $m[//"If Rocky is trying to make absolutely everyone in the game hate his guts, mission accomplished," says Louie. "He's an idiot who blew a guaranteed path to the final two, and I only want to stick around to see that catch up to him. As for everyone else... honestly, whatever. I'm not trying to be Homecoming King; I don't need them to tell me good things about myself. Just let me see one of Denine or Vaclav make the end and I'll be okay, I suppose."//] Voting Results: **Louie – Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, Rocky** Buddy – Denine, Louie, Vaclav [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 34 Ochalibas**] The six remaining players arrive back at the Ochalibas camp after an emotionally draining tribal council. "You surprised all of us back there," says Buddy. "I'm not sure if it's because you have a good poker face, or we were just all ignoring you." "It's usually the latter," says Rocky. "And you don't sound very grateful, since I just saved you for the second time." "I don't owe you any favours, if that's what you're getting at," says Buddy. "It's a little too late in the game to make promises." "See, this is what I mean," Rocky replies. "You guys make such a big deal about me not respecting you guys or whatever, but you never respect other people." "That's because half the time you're talking about how annoying or lame everything is." Rocky shakes his head. "You don't respect each other, either. I know you all can't handle someone like me, but you're just as awful to Denine, and she's just as awful to you." Buddy looks to his side, noticing that the others have stepped away to give him and Rocky some space. "What exactly is your deal, then?" he asks. "You mean right now? I don't have any deal," says Rocky. "I'd rather know what you did to Vaclav." "Nothing," says Buddy. "He's just bitter that I exposed him after he voted Paula out. That's why he was going after me last night." //"Vaclav just made a lucky guess," says Buddy. "What's more important at this point is that he was campaigning to get me out when he thought the votes were already there. Whatever the reason Vaclav wants me out, he's just giving me a reason to target him."// The rest of the tribe is sitting in the shelter. "Man, I can't believe that," says Denine. "We had a thing going, and then he just stabs us in the back." "Did you not expect it at all?" Candace asks. "Yeah, I know this is Rocky we're talking about," Denine answers, "but I thought if anything, Vaclav, that your speech would have gotten him out." "Was any of that, like, true?" Ashleia asks. "You sounded like you believed it." Vaclav nods. "I'm confident that Buddy was already friends with Paula. It makes too much sense. I thought that since Rocky is not dumb, he would think that he could not guess what that means." "It's a wild card," says Denine. "A variable to be controlled or removed." //"Having a personal connection is almost like having a helper," says Denine. "If Vaclav is right, then it's a good thing we took Paula out first before that pair could have done any damage. It would have been smart to finish the pair off, but nooooooo!" Her tone becomes increasingly angrier as she continues, "I'm stuck here now with Vaclav as the only person I can have some faith in. Vaclav! I can't even get rid of him now because Louie's gone! I'm pissed!"// "I thought Rocky believed it," says Candace. "He gave off that impression, at least. Why would he be talking alone with Buddy, then? He's not the type to get the full story unless it helps his case." "Oh, yeah, like when he was in danger, but he started looking into what Min-Ji had told us about Town Square," says Ashleia. "This could be, like, the same thing." "How so?" Denine asks. "He talked to Min-Ji a lot and when he caught her in a lie, he showed us that we couldn't trust her," says Ashleia. "But right now, there's three of us. He knows you and Vaclav don't like him, so if we vote against him would you go to rocks?" Denine looks over at Vaclav, who shakes his head. "So, we literally don't need his vote anymore, and he knows it," says Ashleia. "He's trying to make the relationships between the rest of us change," Candace adds. "I can't see how it will make Buddy any happier with him," says Denine. "I don't think he wants Buddy to be happier with him," Vaclav replies. //"I thought that Rocky had turned against me," says Vaclav, "but now I am not so sure. If he was not loyal to our alliance, I do not see why he would become loyal to the other alliance. Did Rocky really flip, or did he just want Louie to leave?"// $m[**Day 35**] Everyone wakes up fairly early in the morning. When the fire is ready to start cooking breakfast, Candace picks up the rice bag, and looks inside. "We don't have a lot left," she says. "I'm not sure if we can all get a scoop for dinner." "Really? But Louie almost always got his own food," Rocky replies. "He's not here anymore, though," says Candace. "Rations are going to be tight." "Goodie," says Denine. Candace looks over at her. "Honestly, Denine, we don't need the commentary." Denine doesn't have a response but is visibly irritated with Candace's remark. Candace notices. "You know what we do need? An extra set of hands once in a while," says Candace. "Can you do something useful and find some food?" "Not if you're going to ask like that," says Denine. "How do you want me to ask, princess?" Candace snaps. "Too late now." //"I have nothing to say to these people who took everything from me," says Denine. "I don't care what their problems are. Just leave me alone, that's all I ask of them."// Buddy gets Candace to go off to the side with him. "That does it. She has to go," says Buddy. "There are only six of us now, numbers are going to dwindle even more, and if she's not even going to pitch in for the next four days then we shouldn't be wasting any food on her." "You think she should go, and Vaclav should make the final five?" Candace asks. "Vaclav?" Buddy looks confused. "Why is he the next in line? I'm not saying it's a terrible idea and all, but you don't think Rocky has worn out his welcome?" "Oh, so now you're saying that," says Candace. //"I seem to recall Buddy being the one who was determined not to vote Rocky out unless we absolutely had to," says Candace. "He was also the one who lost it on Vaclav when Paula got voted out but thinks Denine is being too dramatic over Louie."// "Why do you suddenly want Rocky out?" Candace asks. "I was the one trying to convince you for the longest time-" "I don't," says Buddy. "I'm glad you want Vaclav out over him. I just thought you hated Rocky so much that you wanted him out as soon as we didn't need him." "I wanted to at first," Candace explains, "but what Vaclav said last night made me reconsider everything." Buddy nods. "I can see that." "Was he right?" Candace asks. Buddy folds his arms. "...yeah. Paula and I have been best friends since we were eleven years old. I didn't tell anyone because I figured we were so far removed in this game that it would never come up. Then we both befriended Jennifer, so we used that as a justification for teaming up." "But then it went south," says Candace. "Boy, did it." //"I didn't want everyone to know, but I really have a connection with Candace, and I think she should know the truth," says Buddy. "It can't really hurt my game any more than the suspicion already has."// "So why did you deny it last night?" Candace asks. "I wanted to make Vaclav look bad," Buddy admits. "I didn't want to tell him that he was right, because then he wouldn't be the frantic paranoid guy anymore. Rocky doesn't like other people being unpredictable, which made him backstab Jackie, and go behind his alliance's back to get Rhett out. We need him to do that again, or we'll end up in a tie tonight." "What about Denine?" "Fuck Denine," says Buddy quickly. "She's shutting down. We should definitely try to get Vaclav out first." //"I'm not always sure what Candace has up her sleeve," says Buddy. "I'm doing the same. I don't want her to know that I'm trying to get Rocky to the end since he's made twice as many enemies. Nobody has to know that, actually. I need my allies to have faith in me for just long enough to neutralize the threats to my game."// Vaclav sits down with Denine later in the morning. "You have to still talk to me about what to do now," says Vaclav. "We have nobody else." "I don't see the point," says Denine. "We're screwed. Rocky will cut anyone to get ahead, and the numbers are against us. There might not be another idol." "Maybe we should look just in case," Vaclav replies. "I don't trust you with idols," says Denine. Vaclav blinks. "...I can't really argue with you on that one." //"Buddy, Ashleia, and Candace are a stable alliance," says Vaclav, "but with Rocky in the mix they might have some trouble. This could work to our advantage, because if anyone can break up an alliance from the inside, it is obviously Rocky, since he just did it to me."// "Who should we try to vote out?" Vaclav asks. "Aren't they all equally bad?" Denine asks in return. "If we say that, the easiest vote would be Rocky," says Vaclav, "but that is just not happening." "I hate to say it, but you're right," says Denine. "We still need to try and break up the blondes, so we don't have to choose between bad or worse at the end." "Maybe not even they want to do that," says Vaclav. "Why would you risk losing to your friend when you can take someone you know you can beat?" "Great, we're the goats," says Denine. "Ugh, I'm sick of talking. Let's get to the challenge already." **Immunity Challenge** The six contestants arrive at the challenge area, where they see a large circular corkboard divided into six coloured quadrants. It is divided like a dartboard with an outer ring, a middle ring, and a smaller central circle. $v["Welcome to your next immunity challenge,"] says Vincent. $v["First off, Ashleia, I'll need the immunity necklace back."] Ashleia quietly obliges, handing it over then returning to the others. Vincent holds the immunity necklace as he talks. $v["This challenge is a classic one known as 'Killer'. You will take turns shooting blow darts from about 5 meters away. You first want to hit your colour with a blow dart to become a 'killer'. Once you do, you can shoot darts at other colours. The outer ring will take one point away from the person with that colour, the middle ring two points, and the center circle three points. If you lose three points you are out of the challenge, whether you are a 'killer' or not. The last player standing wins the challenge."] The contestants stand out of the way of the path between the blow darts and the dartboard. $v["Alright. We randomized the order of play,"] says Vincent. $v["Ashleia, you are up first."] Ashleia picks up a tube that looks like bamboo but is probably not, loads it with a blow dart, aims, and fires. It falls quite a bit short. $v["Deep breaths,"] says Vincent. $v["Next up, Buddy."] Buddy loads his tube, fires it, and it hits Vaclav's quadrant. He sighs in annoyance. $v["You are not a 'killer', so it does not count,"] says Vincent. $v["Next up, Rocky."] Rocky primes his blow tube, fires, and hits the frame holding the dartboard above the ground. $v["Nada. Next up, Vaclav."] Vaclav loads his tube, fires, and hits Ashleia's quadrant. $v["Doesn't count. Denine is next."] Denine loads, fires, and misses. $v["Next up is Candace, and then we'll start from the beginning again,"] says Vincent. Candace loads, fires, and undershoots, just like the other female castaways. $v["Ashleia, you're up again,"] says Vincent. $v["So far, you are all trying to hit your own quadrant."] Ashleia undershoots again, but she gets slightly closer. Buddy hits someone else's quadrant again. The first to connect with their own quadrant is Rocky. $v["Rocky is now on the board, and needs to start hitting other people's quadrants,"] says Vincent. $v["You cannot win unless you hit your own quadrant. Vaclav is next."] Vaclav undershoots. Next is Denine, who undershoots. Candace goes next, and she hits her own quadrant. $v["Candace can start taking points away,"] says Vincent. $v["We are on to round three. Ashleia, you are up."] Ashleia, however, undershoots. Buddy just barely misses his own quadrant. Rocky aims, fires, and hits another person's quadrant. $v["Rocky has hit Candace's quadrant, she loses one point and is down to two,"] says Vincent. Vaclav goes next and misses again. Denine hits someone else's quadrant, and Candace undershoots. Ashleia hits her quadrant at the very bottom of the dartboard. Buddy hits someone else's quadrant again. Rocky goes next and manages to hit the middle section of Buddy's quadrant. $v["Buddy loses two points,"] says Vincent. Vaclav finally hits his own quadrant. Denine misses. Candace fires, and hits Rocky's quadrant on the outside, bringing him down to two points. $v["We're in round five and it's still anyone's game,"] says Vincent. $v["Ashleia, Rocky, Vaclav, and Candace are all 'killers' but Buddy and Denine can catch up."] Ashleia hits her own quadrant again. "Oh, darn," she says. $v["That does nothing,"] says Vincent. $v["Buddy, you're up."] Buddy hits someone else's quadrant for the fifth time in a row. Rocky goes next, and misses. Vaclav hits Ashleia's quadrant right near the bullseye. $v["And with a single dart,"] says Vincent, $v["Vaclav has made Ashleia lose three points, and she is out of the challenge."] "Well, at least I got to be a 'killer'," says Ashleia, as she heads towards the bench for eliminated players. Denine hits the very top edge of the dartboard, outside of the scoring area. Candace misses. Buddy hits someone else's quadrant. $v["Buddy has hit every quadrant except for the one he needs,"] says Vincent. "I am aware," Buddy says crossly. Rocky hits Denine's quadrant, making her lose one point. Vaclav hits Buddy's quadrant, making him lose his third and final point. $v["Buddy is out of the challenge,"] says Vincent. $v["Next up is Denine. If she hits her own quadrant, everyone left can take other people's points away."] Sure enough, Denine hits someone else's quadrant. Candace goes next. She hits Denine's quadrant, making her lose a single point. $v["We are at round six,"] says Vincent. $v["Everyone except Vaclav has lost a single point. Rocky, you are up next."] Rocky quickly evens the score by hitting the outside of Vaclav's quadrant. Vaclav retaliates by hitting the outside of Rocky's quadrant. Denine finally hits her own quadrant, and Candace undershoots. In the seventh round, Rocky hits Vaclav's quadrant again, making him lose a second point. Everyone else misses. Rocky begins the eighth round by hitting Ashleia's quadrant. "I wasn't aiming for you, I swear," says Rocky. "I can't, like, be any more out," Ashleia tells him jokingly. Vaclav hits Candace's quadrant, making her lose a second point. Candace hits Rocky's quadrant in the middle section. $v["Rocky would lose two points but he has only one left,"] says Vincent, $v["so he is out of the challenge. Denine is next."] Denine hits Rocky's quadrant. "Perfect timing," she says to herself. Vaclav hits Denine's quadrant, making her lose a second point. Candace hits Denine's quadrant as well, eliminating Denine from the challenge. $v["We are down to two people, Vaclav and Candace,"] says Vincent. $v["Vaclav, you begin this next round, and you can end it all right here."] Vaclav loads, aims, fires, and misses the board entirely. Candace loads her tube with a dart, fires, and hits Buddy's section. Vaclav goes again, this time hitting his own quadrant. "Why can't one of you be a good shot when it counts?" Rocky grumbles. Candace hits Rocky's quadrant a third time. "Was that an accident?" Vaclav asks. "I think so," says Candace. Vaclav stifles a laugh. He then grabs a blow dart, loads his tube, and fires a dart at the outside of Candace's quadrant. $v["Candace loses a point,"] says Vincent, $v["and she is out of the challenge. Vaclav wins individual immunity!"] Vaclav smiles cheerfully, and the others politely clap, except for Rocky. As soon as the clapping stops, Denine begins to look incredibly worried. $v["Congratulations, Vaclav,"] says Vincent, putting the immunity necklace around Vaclav's shoulders. $v["You have earned a guaranteed spot in the final five. At tribal council tonight, you and your tribe will have to decide who will be voted out of the game and become the fourth member of the jury. Head back to camp, I will see you all tonight."] $m[**Ochalibas**] //"I didn't get much of a chance at the challenge today, which kind of sucks," says Ashleia, "but I had literally won it yesterday, so maybe it's a good thing that, like, I don't look too threatening."// Ashleia decides to talk one on one with Candace. "This morning Buddy was telling me that he wanted to get rid of Denine," says Candace, "but then he changed his mind halfway through and said we should vote Vaclav instead." "Weird," says Ashleia. "He usually, like, sticks to a plan and stuff. What do you think changed?" "He claims that he thought I wanted Rocky out," says Candace. "But I guess he wanted Vaclav out more." "And we can't vote for him," Ashleia replies. "What will Buddy say, then, Denine or Rocky?" "Probably Denine," says Candace. "He was really set off by how she acted this morning." //"I had a deal with Denine that we would each take out one of our own numbers," says Candace. "But now I have a very real opportunity to go back on that and put her on the jury. The thing is, she's a bitter bitch now, but it's not like she wouldn't do the same thing."// "Did he tell you about Paula?" Ashleia asks. Candace nods. "Yeah... it's real. They've been best friends for a long time." "OMG..." Ashleia says, pronouncing each letter individually. "I think we should keep it to ourselves, though," says Candace. "It wouldn't be right. Maybe he wants the others to think he's still denying it to everyone." "So, like, we should just trust his plan?" Ashleia asks. Candace shrugs. "If Denine, Vaclav, and Rocky align again-" "Maybe we shouldn't," says Ashleia. //"My boyfriend told me that I need to stand up for myself," says Ashleia. "And I like Buddy, but I don't know what he's planning right now when it comes to lying to some people but telling the truth to Candace. This might be his big move, and I have to do, like, something so I don't look like a floater and stuff."// Meanwhile, Buddy and Rocky are standing by a tree, talking. "The girls are off by themselves," says Buddy. "That's not really a good sign, is it?" "Who knows?" Rocky replies. "It makes me think I'm not as tight with them as I think I am," Buddy replies. "The thing is, I really wanted to take Vaclav out this round, but he's safe, and for me the only target is Denine." "You don't sound like you want to vote her out," says Rocky. "It would be too boring, right?" "Too predictable, as well. I need to show that I can make decisions that aren't dictated by emotion," says Buddy. //"I'm putting words in Buddy's mouth, and he's not even realizing that I'm telling him what I want him to do," says Rocky. "He has a little bit of doubt with keeping his little posse together, and I want that to keep going."// "You know, those two have been together the entire game," says Rocky. "They're the last pair left who were always on the same tribe." Buddy thinks for a second. "You're saying that I would be third to them?" "Your incredibly obvious lying at last tribal council might make them not trust you," Rocky replies. "We're not going over that again," says Buddy. "Even if Paula was guaranteed to vote for me to win, now Louie's on the jury and he'll never vote for me." "So it //is// true," says Rocky. "I never said that," Buddy insists. "The point is, do I take one of them out now or not?" //"I can make a move and get rid of either Ashleia or Candace, but then that puts Rocky in the swing position again," says Buddy, "and I'd rather him not have that power. Voting Denine would cut Vaclav's only lifeline, and he might be desperate enough to take a truce."// "I could be wrong, and Ash or Candace wants to vote the other one out," says Buddy. "Just make a decision already," says Rocky. "Fine. We vote Denine, make Vaclav squirm a little," Buddy replies. "Done." Rocky, satisfied, walks away. As he leaves, Buddy folds his arms. "I hate having to trust him," Buddy mutters. Vaclav and Denine are sitting behind the shelter, talking about their options. "You should have just thrown it to Candace," says Denine. "At least that way they might have split the votes or something." "I don't throw challenges," Vaclav replies. "We have to do something." "Then we'll vote out one of the blondes," says Denine. "Who's your target?" "Wait," says Vaclav, "I want to hear your thoughts first." "Vaclav, I don't care, I'm probably going home either way," Denine replies. "Pick the one who annoys you the most." //"Vaclav is completely ignorant to the fact that his winning the challenge screwed me over," says Denine. "He's the one who's always worried about everyone's plotting, and I don't care enough to feed into that when it's my game on the line. All I really care about is if he can prove me wrong about this whole round."// "I do not know between Ashleia and Buddy," says Vaclav. "Denine, if that was the final two. Who would you vote to win?" "Please," says Denine. "It's too early to ask me such a stupid question." "I cannot have you give up, or then we will both lose," Vaclav protests. "Let's... fucking vote out Buddy, I guess," says Denine. "That's four against two, though. We both know that Rocky doesn't like ties." "Buddy is standing out right now," says Vaclav. "If Louie was here instead of him, I would be trying to get rid of you or him right now. Those three know they can't make the end together. Why would they go to rocks for an alliance you need to break up?" "You think Ashleia and Candace would stick together," says Denine. "If they had any common sense, what he said last night should have raised some black flags," Vaclav replies. "You mean red flags?" Denine asks. "Red flags?" Vaclav repeats, confused. "Yeah, black flags aren't a thing. Unless you're, like, a pirate or something," says Denine. //"I am voting against Buddy because he is not happy still that I voted Paula," says Vaclav. "When someone else makes it personal, you have to be personal as well, because they will not listen to reason."// Right before tribal, Ashleia and Vaclav hang back while the others gather their torches. "I haven't, like, heard from Denine all day," says Ashleia. "She's mad at me, isn't she?" Vaclav nods. "But she is mad at everyone." "I do not know if her heart is in the game anymore," Ashleia replies. "It might not be, like, fair to keep her in if everyone else really wants this." "You were upset and frustrated when we voted Jarrett out," Vaclav replies. "It's the same thing. Denine liked Louie, a lot." "You don't mean //like// like, do you?" "I hope not. Eww." "Yeah, ew," says Ashleia. "Anyways, if she's feeling defeated and stuff, we could just vote her out tonight. I promise that if you do, you will be safe the next round." "Who would you vote out instead?" Vaclav asks. "Buddy," says Ashleia. "Like, I just can't get over what you said about him and his friendships." "Did he admit it to you?" "He, like, changed the subject when Candace asked him," Ashleia lies. "We can just get rid of him now," says Vaclav. "If Denine does give up tomorrow, that is a hard call we do not have to make. She is not the biggest threat tonight." "We'll see what happens," Ashleia replies, and the two grab their torches. $v[**Tribal Council**] The six members of the Ochalibas tribe enter the tribal council building with their torches. They put them in the back in the torches' usual slots, and then take their seats. $v["We will now bring in the members of the jury: Paula, Rhett, and Louie, voted out last tribal council,"] says Vincent. $v["As always, they will not speak to the players and you are not to address them."] The three-member jury walks into the tribal council building, heading towards the jury bench. Louie is wearing a red vest with green camo shorts, brown sandals, and a white baseball cap. On the front of the cap reads 'Women Want Me, Fish Fear Me'. Once the jury is seated, Vincent turns to the contestants. $v["Ashleia, last night it looked like you were all stunned by the final vote. What happened?"] "Like, pretty much the entire game we have been, like, keeping Rocky away from us," Ashleia explains. "But he said he wanted to side with us, and we kind of needed the numbers, so we agreed. We just didn't think he would actually do it." $v["Buddy, why didn't you believe him?"] Vincent asks. "When Vaclav started trying to pin his latest conspiracy on me-" Buddy begins. "Excuse me, conspiracy?" Vaclav snaps. "Let me finish," says Buddy. "Rocky started going 'oh yeah, of course, I believe everything he's saying'. It sounded like he was going to vote with Vaclav again, and Vaclav was not going to turn on Louie." Vaclav shakes his head. "I might have voted him out, if there was not a big reason to not trust you." "Shut up, V," says Buddy. "If you want to talk personal connections, Denine has a guaranteed vote on the jury now too." $v["Denine, as someone on the other side,"] says Vincent, $v["did you see that flip as possible?"] "I thought he would be smarter than that," Denine replies. "I've set the bar for him pretty low based on his past behaviour, and even then, I overestimated him." "Blah blah blah," says Rocky, "sounds to me like you were expecting to ride on my coattails until you and Louie could jump off. None of us wanted that to happen." "None of us wanted the blondes to make the final six together because then the rest of us are going to be picked off one by one," Denine replies. "But no, you just had to make a //beeg moof// and hand the game over." $v["Vaclav, you were blindsided last night,"] says Vincent, $v["but you have immunity tonight. Is this especially important for you to have right now?"] "It is always important for me," says Vaclav. "But if I did not, I would still have some hope that the others would not vote me out." "Why wouldn't they?" Louie wonders aloud. $v["Candace, is there truth to what Vaclav is saying?"] Vincent asks. "I mean, having hope is always good," Candace replies. "That being said, I don't know. I may be tight with Ashleia and Buddy, but this is not the first time we have had exactly half the votes. Last time did not end well for us." "Vaclav had immunity last time, too," says Paula. $v["Buddy, last time you were halfway out the door when the last vote came in,"] says Vincent. $v["Are you concerned that tonight will be a similar story?"] "Definitely," says Buddy. "Denine and I have always clashed, and there is not much time left to put aside our differences for a common goal." "We don't have any common goals," Denine interjects. "Maybe we would have one if you were concerned with anyone but yourself," Buddy replies. "I'm concerned with myself because I want myself to win," says Denine. "If that's a problem for you, too bad." "See, this is why you keep ending up a persona non grata," says Buddy. "I don't need any Survivor tips from you, Buddy." "Imagine if this was the final two," says Rocky, pointing at Buddy and Denine. "Don't give them any ideas," Rhett mutters. "I think it's too late for that," Louie replies. $v["Alright, before things get too heated, let's get the voting underway,"] says Vincent. $v["Vaclav, do you want to give up immunity?"] "Of course not," says Vaclav. Denine glares at him. "Can't you just say no like a normal person?" "There's no need to, like, be rude, Denine," says Ashleia. "Don't even start," Denine snaps. "I'm not in the fucking mood." $v["Candace, you're up first,"] says Vincent. ... Ashleia casts her vote, but when showing who she voted for, she is seen from behind, so the vote is not visible. "I think your attitude is intentional, and it makes you look really guilty and stuff." Rocky casts his vote, which is also not shown. "Quit being a little bitch. You have someone to keep you company in the jury house." ... With the final vote cast, Vincent goes to the voting booth to collect the voting urn. $v["Once the votes are read, the decision is final,"] says Vincent. $v["The person voted off will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I'll read the votes..."] $v["First vote, Buddy."] "Called it," says Buddy, upon recognizing Denine's handwriting. "Shut it," Denine replies in the same intonation. $v["Second vote, Denine."] Denine rolls her eyes. $v["Buddy. He leads with two votes."] Candace looks at Ashleia, concerned. Vaclav smiles slightly upon seeing the vote, but notices that Denine still looks peeved. $v["Next vote, Buddy."] On the jury bench, Paula holds her hands between her knees. Rhett looks over at her and shakes his head. "You're not doing a good job of maintaining the charade," he tells her. $v["Eleventh person voted out of Survivor: Inca Legacy, and the fourth member of the jury,"] Vincent says, revealing another vote, $v["is **Buddy**. You need to bring me your torch."] "Wow... oh wow," says Buddy. He stands up. "I didn't see that coming." Candace rubs the back of her neck. She is not very happy with the vote, but she does not show any regret on her face. Ashleia gives a sympathetic shrug. As Buddy walks past Denine and Vaclav to get his torch, Vaclav turns to Denine. "This is why you never give up," he tells her. Denine still looks displeased. "You think they're going to do something like that again?" Buddy places his torch in front of Vincent. "Just get it over with," he says quietly. $v["Can do. Buddy, the tribe has spoken,"] says Vincent. He snuffs the torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] "Thanks, guys," says Buddy, as he walks out. $v["There's only room for two finalists in this building,"] says Vincent. $v["If you have more allies than spots in the finale, someone is going to be left out. Buddy was voted out because some of you didn't want to wait and see who that would be. You can head back to camp."] $m[//"I had a feeling that the alliance wasn't going to last," says Buddy. "Once the numbers started to slip, we never got that control back. I feel like there is more I could have done to keep me in the game, but you don't always get the time. I did the best I could to think on my feet. I'm a little bummed I couldn't pull it off for Paula's sake, but we didn't get the chance to really help each other, yet I still made the top six. I know Ashleia and Candace turned on me, but I know it wasn't personal, and I want one of them to win."//] Voting Results: ''Buddy – Ashleia, Candace, Denine, Rocky, Vaclav'' Denine – Buddy [[Day 36<-Read Day 36]]

$m[**Day 36 Ochalibas**] Candace sits by herself on a tree stump, looking glum. She only looks up when she sees Ashleia approaching her. "Hey, Candace," she says. "Are you feeling bad about last night?" Candace nods. "I had a really good connection with Buddy. It's frustrating, because I think it was the right move, but I don't think he really did anything wrong." "He didn't, like, do anything bad," says Ashleia, "but it was going to be either him or one of us. And he was planning stuff, stuff he didn't need us for." //"When Buddy's secret came out, we were all scared because maybe he had an unfair advantage," says Ashleia, "but he had a month to think about how to play that off. What if he had, like, the perfect idea that would make everyone want him to win?"// "I knew that I had to do it anyways," says Candace. "I made a promise to Denine that we would keep each other safe and vote out one ally each. Buddy would forgive me for lying, I hope, but Denine might not." "Why didn’t you tell me?" Ashleia asks. "Because Denine never said I had to vote out Buddy," Candace confesses. "Oh. I see..." "You can yell at me if you want," says Candace softly. "I knew it," says Ashleia, "you were thinking about it. My boyfriend told me not to trust you guys too much." "There's only room for two of us at the end," Candace replies, "and now we know. It's you and me." //"Last night was tough, but now there's only five of us," says Candace. "I sacrificed one of my closest allies to stay in, and I'm not going to let that happen in vain. It's all or nothing, now."// Meanwhile, Vaclav is attempting to get through to Denine again. "Last night was just the beginning," says Vaclav. "I think we can make the end together if we play our cards right." "That is exactly what Louie told me," Denine replies. "I'm still convinced that Buddy was voted out because you were immune, and they had the numbers without him." Vaclav gulps. "You're not serious, are you?" Denine folds her arms. "They were a tight alliance. If they voted me out, one of them could have flipped to you and Rocky. There's no third person to flip now, because-" "Rocky," says Vaclav. "He is right in the middle. Do you think he would want to take Candace or Ashleia to the end?" "He might think he can beat one of them," says Denine. "I wouldn't put it past him." //"Everyone knows that it was me and Louie who it together our alliance," says Denine. "Two days ago, Rocky flipped and took it down. He might know something about the people he flipped to that we don't, something that he can use to damage his opponent's reputation. If he can do that, he can build himself a good case."// "We need to convince Rocky to vote with us again," Vaclav insists. "We cannot go to the final four with those two ladies." "Rocky won't be any different," says Denine. "I do not understand why you are so resistant to this," says Vaclav. "It's not resistance," Denine replies, "it's realism. If we really are the goats, like you said, we have to knock out all of Ochora to even have a shot. Like it or not, the blondes have more friends on the jury and Rocky's done more than either of us have." "Is that not what I told you? We were going to do that anyways," says Vaclav. "Believe me, I really want to," says Denine. "I just don't see it happening." "Do you not realize how many things that shouldn't have happened in this game... have happened?" Vaclav replies. "Two best friends since primary school in the same season, all of the meltdowns, betrayal after betrayal. Everyone has wanted Rocky to go home for over a month and he's still here. Anything is possible." //"If I can't get Denine to believe me, and get her to work with me," says Vaclav, "I will have to do everything for her. My biggest worry is that she is doing this on purpose, to make me do all the work, then turn on me and take all the credit. I do not think she would do that for Louie, but I am nothing like Louie."// **Immunity Challenge** The five contestants arrive at the challenge beach, waiting to see what Vincent has in store for them. "Hello, all," says Vincent. "Today's immunity challenge will test your strength and ability to focus. Behind me is a wide sand pit, with five bats hidden inside." "Um, you mean like the wooden kind?" Ashleia asks. Vincent nods. "Right, not the animal. You will have to dig up a bat and smash one of the five tiles behind me. Once you do that, you can move on to the vertical maze, where you have to guide a wooden ball upwards with a crossbeam and pulleys. If the ball falls off the crossbeam or through a gap in the maze, you have to start over. First person to get the ball to the top of the maze wins immunity. Ready to get started?" The contestants enthusiastically show their eagerness to compete. "Survivors ready... GO!" All five players race to the sand pit and begin to dig the best they can. Rocky is the first to retrieve a bat, and sprints over to the tiles. He smashes a tile, drops the bat, and races to begin the nearest maze. "Rocky, ignoring the fact that he only needs to break a tile, has completely dusted one," says Vincent. "Aw, but that's the fun part," says Rocky. "Why not make the most of it?" Ashleia finds a bat next, runs to a tile, and knocks it down with the bat. It breaks into three pieces upon hitting the ground. Ashleia drops the bat and jogs over to a maze. Both Rocky and Ashleia make up sizable leads by the time Candace, Denine, and Vaclav find bats in rapid succession. Each of them breaks apart a tile upon impact with the bat, and then they head over to the three vacant mazes. Rocky, the first to begin, is also the first to drop. Ashleia loses control of the pulleys and drops as well, while Vaclav seizes up early on and drops his. When the three of them begin again, Candace and Denine are halfway through their mazes. Rocky picks up the pace in an effort to catch up, while Ashleia sticks to her slow and careful strategy. Vaclav tries something in the middle, but a sudden sneeze makes him lose control a second time. Candace, Denine, and Rocky reach the end of the maze at about the same time, with Ashleia distantly following, and Vaclav still struggling to keep himself steady. At the top of the maze is a small bowl, which the wooden ball fits inside perfectly. The path just before the bowl is very narrow, however, and only one person is able to get the ball through without it dropping. Rocky watches his ball roll gently into the bowl, before letting go of the pulleys and pumping a fist into the air. "Yeah! Yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" Rocky cheers. $v["Rocky wins immunity!"] Vincent calls out. "I didn't even need to pull out any tricks that time," says Rocky, grinning from ear to ear. "Lay that necklace on me!" "If you insist." Vincent takes the immunity necklace out, and places it around Rocky's neck. "Congratulations, you are safe at tonight's tribal council and have a guaranteed spot in the final four." "Feels great," says Rocky. "The rest of you," says Vincent, "will have to decide amongst yourselves who will be voted out and become the fifth member of the jury. You can head back to camp." $m[**Ochalibas**] //"We have two options tonight, since Rocky has immunity," says Candace. "Either way, we'll need three votes to pull it off. Once any of the others wants to vote Denine or Vaclav, that's the avenue we're going to take."// "I think you know what I want to say to you," says Candace. "You've come crawling to me for my vote?" Rocky asks. "Crawling? Please," says Candace. "You have the immunity necklace, big whoop. If there's an immunity idol out there, it's being played tonight. I'm not saying I found it, but I did find the Ochora idol before you did." "Yeah, right." Rocky snorts. "You think I'm lying? Then who does have it?" Candace replies. "I can't tell you," Rocky replies. "You're bluffing, too!" Candace snaps. "Look, that doesn't even matter. I'm suggesting that you work with me and Ashleia." "What do you have to offer?" Rocky asks. "Final three, guaranteed," says Candace. "We all started on the same tribe, and we went from having no numbers to being in the majority. We might not get another chance to get Vaclav out." //"Vaclav and Rocky both have two immunity challenges under their belts," says Candace. "Denine has nothing. If I can't work with her, then I have two more chances to vote her out since I just don't see her winning any more at this rate. If I'm wrong, good for her, then Rocky leaves instead."// "Fine, I'll note that you want Vaclav out," says Rocky. "Thanks," Candace replies with slight annoyance. "Hey, if you wanted me to swear on something, tough luck!" Rocky grins. "You decided to give me power tonight by voting out Buddy." //"Candace and Ashleia want me to be loyal to the tribe that tried to get me voted out every chance they could," says Rocky. "Now that's just hilarious. If they can somehow get Denine on board to vote Vaclav out, then maybe. I don't see any reason to settle for final three, when I can actually win if they both leave."// Meanwhile, Ashleia is talking to Denine. "Like, what are we even going to do now? I wanted to vote him out," says Ashleia. "Hang on, who's 'we'?" Denine asks. "You're telling me you seriously want my vote tonight?" "Of course," Ashleia replies. "Vaclav is the number one threat right now, we need to vote him out." "I mean, sure," says Denine. "What else is in it for me?" "Huh?" "When Candace wanted me to flip, she had something to give me in return," replies Denine. "You want me to just turn on Vaclav and get nothing in return?" "I want you to join a girls' alliance," says Ashleia. "The two of us and Candace. We should be looking out for each other, you know?" "What if Rocky wins the next immunity?" Denine asks. "Then we, like, vote Candace out," Ashleia replies. "What else could we really do there?" "Bull, you'd vote me out," says Denine. "If you tried to keep me in, you'd lose Buddy's jury vote." "I'm, like, hoping he would forgive me," says Ashleia. "Besides... staying with Candace is the safe move, and it's too late to play it safe, you know?" //"It took a lot of, um, courage and strength to vote Buddy out," says Ashleia, "but I know I had to do it. I can't keep all my friends safe. If I had to vote Candace out, maybe I would do that too. I just hope it doesn't come to that yet."// "I mean, I guess," says Denine. "Vaclav kind of saved me last round... I'm just a little concerned. What if he still has an idol?" "What makes you say that?" Ashleia asks. "He played his one in the final 11 on a whim," says Denine. "A sensible player might do that if they had another idol in their pocket." "Ugh," says Ashleia. "That majorly sucks, but I would rather just risk it. If he doesn't have one, we need to do this." //"Ashleia is making a tempting offer," says Denine, "but I know better than to just walk into things blindly. I don't trust anything she's saying... but at the same time, Rocky is just as untrustworthy, if not more. I still want Candace out, too... and Vaclav has been really annoying lately. I have no choice but to play by someone else's rules, tonight."// A little later, Vaclav has a conversation with Rocky. "We still need to vote out Candace," says Vaclav. "She's probably more likely to win immunity than Ashleia, and you know better than to vote out me or Denine at this point." "For argument's sake, let's say I didn't know better," says Rocky. "What are you saying?" Vaclav asks. "Tell me exactly why I shouldn't just stick with them like I did when we voted Louie," replies Rocky. //"It's not good enough that Vaclav and I might have the same target," Rocky explains. "He needs to be doing it for the right reasons, or I might have to resort to other methods."// "You do know the three of you all started on the same tribe," says Vaclav. "But we are the only two men left. You are safe, I am not. I need your help." "Keep going," says Rocky. "Did the girls suggest an alliance of three to you?" Vaclav asks. "They did," Rocky replies. "How do you know that they did not make a girls' alliance with Denine? If you vote me out, then next round Denine will vote you out, and then they vote Denine out and they're in the final two," says Vaclav. //"I'm on my own, now," says Vaclav. "Denine is not listening to me, Rocky only cares about himself and he has nothing to lose. I wish I did not, but I have to make them both want to keep me."// "Why would they do that? That would be kind of stupid," says Rocky. "It's most likely," Vaclav replies. "No, most likely would be taking Denine to the... end..." Rocky stops. "I see. Welp, Candace is done like dinner." "We still need Denine's vote," says Vaclav. "We need to get to her fast. Right now, one of the ladies could be talking to her while the other one looks for an idol." "It's your butt on the line," says Rocky. "You do what you gotta do." Vaclav misses the insult. "I will, actually! I can do this!" //"It's a no-brainer to keep Vaclav," says Rocky, "considering most of the jury was sent there after he turned on them to join an alliance that didn't have the numbers. If it was almost anyone else, it would be a slam dunk, but Denine is a trainwreck on ice, emotionally and strategically. This necklace is definitely staying on tonight."// $v[**Tribal Council**] The five members of the Ochalibas tribe enter the tribal council building with their torches. They put them in the back in the torches' usual slots, and then take their seats. $v["We will now bring in the members of the jury: Paula, Rhett, Louie, and Buddy voted out last tribal council,"] says Vincent. $v["As always, they will not speak to the players and you are not to address them."] The four members of the jury walk into the tribal council building and take their seats on the jury bench. Buddy is wearing a plain, sapphire blue hooded sweatshirt and jeans. Vincent turns back to the remaining five players. $v["Denine, last tribal got pretty heated, even though you all wrote the same name down. What was the attitude like back at camp afterwards?"] "Pretty bleak," says Denine. "There was no real discussion about it as a group, we all went our separate ways pretty much immediately. We had different reasons for voting the way we did, and it was with the expectation that this tribal council would seal the deal." $v["Candace,"] says Vincent, $v["what does Denine mean by sealing the deal?"] "Buddy wasn't voted out for being an outsider," says Candace. "It was more to open up some room to negotiate and break down the barrier we had between the two sides. We've been divided for too long, and time is running out to leave an impression on each other and the jury." $v["Tribal council is the most direct way of doing that,"] says Vincent. $v["Vaclav, when you cast your vote tonight, what kind of message are you sending?"] "I'm sending a message that says I have confidence in the game I am playing," says Vaclav. "When I am surrounded by people who want to use me and lie to me, I can count on myself to know what I need to do to come out ahead." "I think you're being a touch dramatic," says Buddy. $v["Rocky,"] says Vincent, $v["what do you need to consider when you cast your vote tonight?"] "Who I can beat, and who will get in my way," says Rocky. "I have four options tonight; I've considered all of them. I'm not going to go along with anyone else's grand plan, because this late in the game the only plans you make are the plans that end in you winning, and I can't let anyone else be the Sole Survivor." "That didn't answer his question," says Denine. "I'm not opening the floor to discussion," Rocky replies, "I already have my mind made up." "Thanks for the grandstanding," says Rhett, "it helps your case so much." $v["Ashleia, yesterday you voted out someone you were fairly close to,"] says Vincent. $v["How do you want that to pay off?"] "Like, I've been telling everyone that I'm not a follower," says Ashleia, "and now I've proved it. The time of the super solid three is gone. You can't just look at where we used to be when you decide your vote tonight. The jury will be looking more and more at the last things you do, and if you just do what you're used to doing and stuff, then you won't have done, like, anything." "I wouldn't buy any of that," says Louie. $v["Denine, is there anything you want to add to that?"] Vincent asks. "We don't know where the merged tribe idol went," says Denine. "Ashleia didn't have it when she gave it to Rhett. The tribal idols were all played. Even if someone has the majority, we have a good idea as to who's targeting whom, so it would be a cinch to play it." "But even if the idol is out there, there are only five people left," says Vaclav. "The only thing we can do is stop someone from getting the idol, but if someone has it then there is nothing you can do. We can't split the vote with three people." "You can't be certain that you have three people," says Candace. "Rocky has voted with us just as much as he's voted with you." "Wait, has he really?" Paula asks, a little surprised. "Rocky and Denine, the two of you don't have a good reputation," says Candace. "You need to vote Vaclav out now before he gets immunity and you can't change your mind. You're better off forcing a tiebreaker tomorrow, because you know he won't do that for you." "If you vote with me then there is no tiebreaker," says Vaclav. "There is no chance at, like, immunity either," Ashleia replies. "Denine, if you don't know what to do, ask yourself who you're playing for." "I know who I'm playing for," says Denine, "and now... I think I'm ready to vote." $v["Alright,"] says Vincent. $v["In that case, Rocky, are you giving up your immunity necklace?"] "Pssh! As if!" Rocky smirks. "This is my baby, my lifeline, and I'm never g-" $v["Vaclav, you're voting first,"] says Vincent. ... Vaclav casts his vote for **Candace**. "It does not sound like there is an idol to worry about. There is no reason not to go after you." Candace casts her vote for **Vaclav**. "This is for breaking our alliance and our trust." ... With the final vote cast, Vincent goes to the voting booth to collect the voting urn. $v["Once the votes are read, the decision is final,"] says Vincent. $v["The person voted off will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I'll read the votes..."] $v["The first vote is for Vaclav."] Vaclav crosses his arms in his seat so that his elbows are resting in his palms. $v["Candace."] Candace glances over at Ashleia, who is unable to provide any reassurance. $v["Vaclav. That's two for Vaclav."] Buddy leans forward in his seat, hands clasped tightly together. $v["Candace. Two votes Vaclav, two votes Candace, one vote left."] Rocky lifts his sunglasses off of his face and inspects the lenses for dirt. Denine watches Vincent pull out the final voting parchment, keeping her expression calm and relaxed. $v["Final vote, thirteenth person voted out of Survivor: Inca Legacy, and the fifth member of the jury..."] $v["...**Candace**. You need to bring me your torch."] The reaction to the final vote is more subdued than many others. Candace pushes herself out of her seat and looks at Ashleia. "We did our best. Keep your head up." She smiles and offers her hand for a handshake. Rocky furrows his brow as he watches Ashleia accept the gesture. Candace wordlessly retrieves her torch and brings it to Vincent, placing it upright in front of him. $v["Candace, the tribe has spoken,"] says Vincent, extinguishing her torch. $v["Time for you to go."] "It's been an honour to be here with, well, some of you," says Candace, before turning and walking out. $v["Last night, one alliance made a gamble, and it seems it didn't pay off for Candace,"] says Vincent. $v["Now, of the eighteen players who began this journey 36 days ago, only four of you remain. Vaclav, Ashleia, Denine, and Rocky, one of you is going to leave Peru a million dollars richer, so make your last three days count. You can head back to camp."] $m[//"This was such an eventful experience for me, with so many highs and lows, and I'm proud of myself for getting through it all," says Candace. "I learned a lot about myself, and how I interact with other people, and I'm leaving a stronger person because of it. Winning would be nice, but I'm not coming away from this with nothing. It wasn't a perfect game, it was my game, and it was one I'm overall happy with."//] Voting Results: **Candace – Denine, Rocky, Vaclav** Vaclav – Ashleia, Candace [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]

$m[**Night 36 Ochalibas**] "Congratulations on making it to the finale," says Denine. "We've come a long way." "I guess," says Vaclav. "Come on, this is something to be proud of, isn't it?" Ashleia asks. "All of us have had, like, times where we thought there was nothing we could do and that we were sure to lose, and we've beat the odds and made it here. It's pretty incredible!" "I'm not celebrating until I get the million-dollar cheque," says Rocky. "Then be prepared to be disappointed," Denine replies. //"Denine can keep counting me out all she wants," says Rocky. "She wants to use me as her goat, but what she doesn't know is that I'm actually playing a better game than she is. My only competition left is Ashleia, at this point, which is a far cry from the danger I was in at the merge."// Soon, half of the tribe winds down and goes to sleep. Rocky, however, decides to keep Vaclav up for a little while longer. "Just letting you know," says Rocky. "I still have your back. Tomorrow, we finish what we started." "Voting Ashleia," says Vaclav, "I got it. We have to make sure she does not win the challenge." "Right on," says Rocky. "The jury is stacked towards her like a leaning tower of pancakes." Vaclav nods, then rubs his eyes behind his glasses. "If we want to go to the final three with Denine, one of us needs to win the challenge," he adds. "I need to go to sleep, so I can be rested." "Alright." Rocky takes a deep breath, as Vaclav settles into a sleeping position. $m[**Day 37**] //"Rocky told me last night that he wanted Ashleia to go, and so do I," says Vaclav. "Once Ashleia goes, though, what do we do? I told Denine I want her in the final two with me, but I do not know what she wants. All game, we have talked about final three or four deals, and we only have two seats."// Denine and Ashleia are awake before the males of the tribe, so they have a quick conversation by the river. "I'm really sorry about last night," says Denine. "But you know I had to do it. I couldn't see you taking me over Candace." "Denine, I didn't know yet," says Ashleia. "I thought we had agreed to figure it out after we voted Vaclav." "I wasn't sure if you really meant it," Denine explains. "But now I know you were telling the truth." "I had no, like, power." Ashleia shakes her head. "I could not afford to lie to you." "A firm ally in Candace was power that nobody else had," says Denine. "Listen, though. You're not out yet. We can work together to try and put one of the boys on the jury." "That's nice to hear and stuff, but will you?" Ashleia asks. //"Denine wants to work with me now and get Vaclav out, but, like, why now and not yesterday?" Ashleia asks. "The guys both want me out, the best we can do is fire, and I don't think Denine would, like, risk me losing. Is she getting desperate?"// "We vote Vaclav. If by some miracle he survives, we vote Rocky out," says Denine. "Whoever wins the final immunity can take Rocky if he's still in." "Wait, what!?" Ashleia's eyes widen. "You're, like, straight up telling me you would vote me out tomorrow if you could." "Both of us could wipe the floor with Rocky at the end," says Denine. "If you win and take him to the end, I'm not holding it against you." "You do have a point," says Ashleia. "But what about Vaclav?" "I'm voting him out the next chance I get," says Denine. "It's the least I can do to make it up to you. If that means I take you to the end and you wind up beating me, that's something I'm fine with." //"Between the two Ochora players, I still need to think about it," says Denine. "Vaclav, though, I really owe him one for stopping me from going over the edge. He didn't do it out of the goodness of his heart, though. If I don't get rid of him, he'll hold that over me at the end, which I'm not going to let happen."// **Immunity Challenge** The final four arrive at the challenge area, where they see four coloured poles. "Good afternoon," says Vincent. "Time for your next challenge. You each have a colour coded pole, and six tower pieces hidden among different obstacles. You need to get all six pieces of your colour and arrange them on the pole in the correct order. First person to do so wins immunity, and a guaranteed spot in the final three. You will be going to tribal council tonight to determine who will not join them. Let's get started." //Later// The contestants stand in front of their colour coded poles, waiting for Vincent's direction. "For immunity, survivors ready..." says Vincent. "GO!" Everyone sprints off into different directions but makes their way back soon enough with their first pieces. As Ashleia, Denine, and Vaclav go searching for another piece, Rocky puts his first piece right onto the pole before running to get his second one. After a while, Rocky builds up a substantial lead, having four pieces on his pole while everyone else has only retrieved two or three. He attempts to force down his four pieces to line up, but it does not work. "Why isn't this working?" Rocky asks aloud. "They all look the exact same!" "Rocky," says Vincent, "there is only one correct answer." "Oh, it's one of those puzzles?" Rocky groans. "Are you kidding me? It's going to take forever to move these all around!" Rocky takes all of the pieces off of his pole one by one and lays them on the ground. "How do I know they're in the right order?" "It's a puzzle, Rocky," says Vincent. "Can't you give m- er, us, a hint?" Rocky asks. "No, I'm not going to give you a hint," Vincent replies. "The pieces fit together like a jigsaw puzzle." Rocky, frustrated, picks up one piece and tries to slam it on top of each of the other pieces he has. "This one doesn't fit on anything!" Vincent merely shakes his head in disappointment as Rocky tries and fails to fit a second piece on his existing pieces. "They can't both not work, that's impossible," says Rocky. "Don't tell me you forgot there are six pieces for each of you," says Vincent. "No, I didn't," says Rocky, "I was just... trying to take a shortcut." He runs off to look for his fifth and sixth pieces. Meanwhile, Vaclav and Denine have returned with their final pieces, while Ashleia is trying to get to hers. Vaclav and Denine get to work on figuring out the order of pieces, with Vaclav working from the bottom up, and Denine flipping her pieces upside down. By the time Rocky gets back with his final pieces, his competitors are all working on fitting their puzzle together. Vaclav has two pieces on his pole, Ashleia has one, and Denine is assembling her pieces in front of the pole. It does not take long for one competitor to figure out the rest of the order and slide their pieces onto their pole. "This challenge sucks," says Rocky. "I got it!" another contestant yells. Vincent walks over to inspect the pole and confirms that the pieces are in the right order. $v["Denine wins immunity!"] "Finally! I did it!" Denine brushes some stray hairs out of her face, making it easier to see her biggest and most earnest smile in weeks. Vincent makes his way over to Denine, holding the immunity necklace, and places it around her neck. "You were the only contestant who had yet to win an individual immunity," says Vincent, "but today your persistence has paid off. You are safe at tonight's tribal council." Denine wipes some sweat off her face with her arm. "Ashleia, Rocky, Vaclav, one of you three will be voted out tonight, and become the sixth member of the jury. You all can head back to camp and discuss who that will be." $m[**Ochalibas**] "Good job, Denine," Vaclav says with a smile once the tribe of four returns to camp. "It feels good to win, right?" "Yeah, and to have the necklace," says Denine. "Yeah..." Vaclav rubs the back of his neck with his hand, and the two awkwardly turn away from each other. //"It feels awkward to have people congratulating me for winning the challenge," says Denine, "when they're in a lot of danger not having it. It's a good time to have it, though, as opposed to seeing Ashleia or Vaclav with it."// "So... Ashleia is next," says Vaclav quietly. Denine nods. "No question about it. It's high time we finish them off." They stand in silence for a little while, watching as Rocky and Ashleia walk in opposite directions. "Let me talk to Ashleia, then," says Vaclav. "Okay, I'll talk to Rocky," Denine replies. The two split up. //"I have talked to Denine and Rocky today, but I have not yet gotten the chance to talk with Ashleia," says Vaclav. "I know I had to get to her first, because I know Denine was not telling her to keep me safe. There is no excuse to not keep tabs on everyone when there are only four of you."// Vaclav catches up with Ashleia and pulls her aside. "Hey, can we talk about the vote?" "There's, like, not much to talk about," says Ashleia. "I voted you out yesterday, because to me you're the biggest threat. I have no other choice." "I thought you have wanted to get rid of Rocky all game long," says Vaclav. Ashleia shakes her head. "Yeah, but... like... I can't do that. I'm sorry." Vaclav looks to the side, deep in thought for a few seconds. "You're voting me so you can stay safe?" "Yeah." "Someone wants us to make fire." "Like, how did you know?" Ashleia looks slightly surprised by Vaclav's answer. "I think Denine told you to vote against me," Vaclav replies. "She has been very awkward with me lately, and Rocky does not want to talk to you. They want us to battle it out." "I guess we better, um, start practicing and stuff." Ashleia turns to walk towards the fire pit, but Vaclav stops her. "Please, no, I don't want to have to make fire," says Vaclav. "That's... too much pressure, I don't know if I can take it." "We have to!" Ashleia replies. "No, listen!" Vaclav interjects. "I had a panic attack the last time we had a tie, and I had immunity! If we tie, you will probably win, but that will make you look even more dangerous to Denine. Vote me out and you have nowhere to hide tomorrow." "Tomorrow?" Ashleia asks, somewhat confused. "If we go to a tiebreaker," says Vaclav, "whoever wins needs to win the final immunity. Denine and Rocky will vote us out if we do not. I am going to vote for Rocky, so we force Denine to bring one of us to the end. Unless you think you can beat Rocky and Denine in endurance..." //"I don't know if I should trust Vaclav here," says Ashleia. "He has the best social game of everyone left, so he needs to go. But, like, am I just making it easier for Rocky or Denine to win if I vote him out? And, like, do I take the chance that he is lying to me about who he is voting for?"// "We have nothing to discuss, right?" says Rocky. "Blondie's time is up." Denine nods. "It's about time you came around. Remember when Louie and I made a big deal about her needing to go and you decided to vote out Rhett instead?" "I think you were exaggerating a little," says Rocky. "You really feeling threatened by a lady who couldn't tell an amplifier from a subwoofer?" "I'm sorry, what?" Denine asks. "Shoulda figured you wouldn't get it, either," Rocky mutters. "Point is, she's only leaving now so we don't get screwed by a bitter jury. She's the underdog, but there's a reason we got rid of her friends first." "They all hurt your feelings," says Denine. "I'm not the emotional one here," Rocky replies, "so don't think you can get away with saying something like that." "Listen, I don't care about how bruised your ego is," says Denine, "the important thing is that we're finishing what we started." //"It feels so good to be the last Ochora standing," says Rocky. "If everything goes to plan, then I'll have outshined everyone that I started with who hated my guts and tried to bring me down, and from there it's just two kind-of allies who can't stand each other left in my way."// //"Rocky has no idea what's about to hit him," Denine explains. "I'm not forgetting about the final-eight incident, and maybe it's time he relives it from the other end of the spectrum. Maybe he shouldn't have taken his eye off Ash for so long..." She chuckles.// $v[**Tribal Council**] The four members of the Ochalibas tribe enter the tribal council building with their torches. They put them in the back in the torches' usual slots, and then take their seats. $v["We will now bring in the members of the jury: Paula, Rhett, Louie, Buddy, and Candace voted out last tribal council,"] says Vincent. $v["As always, they will not speak to the players and you are not to address them."] The five members of the jury walk into the tribal council building and take their seats on the jury bench. Candace has changed into a white tank top with horizontal gray stripes that stops barely above her beltline, and black skinny jeans. Upon seeing Denine wearing the immunity necklace, she winces. Vincent looks back at the final four. $v["Ashleia, you look like the odd one out here tonight. Since last night, you have been the last one standing of the majority at the merge. What are your thoughts on that?"] "I'm, like, really nervous," says Ashleia. "The reason those three and Louie were together was because they were kind of the outsiders in the tribe and stuff. So, like, I'm just hoping that they have done enough to each other that they don't go after me." $v["Done enough in what way?"] Vincent asks. "Like, they have not really worked together that much," says Ashleia. "Rocky has gone against Vaclav once and Denine twice, at least. And for the longest time Vaclav was really flaky. Like, neither one of them can be trusted, and when you are in the final three, you need to trust that someone is on your side." $v["Rocky, is trust a factor in your decision tonight?"] asks Vincent. "Psssh, as if!" Rocky folds his arms. "I didn't make it this far by doing favours for people so they would trust me. When I want something, I go for it, and right now I want Princess to go bye-bye." "He's even ruder than normal tonight," says Rhett. $v["Denine, do you think it's safe to be as upfront as Rocky is tonight, or do you think there's potential for change?"] Vincent asks. "It's pretty cut and dry," says Denine. "Ashleia has a lot of friends on the jury, and well, that would be a big risk. I haven't really heard of anyone else saying any different." Vaclav rolls his eyes. $v["I take it you don't agree,"] says Vincent. "Yeah, I was hoping you would let it slide," Vaclav replies. "Ashleia is the odd one out, but that leaves three of us wanting one of two seats at the end. Denine and I both see it, and she wants to jump the gun and vote me out." "If I wanted you out, you would be out by now," says Denine. "You want to take Rocky to the end," says Vaclav, "and you know I am better at physical challenges than Ashleia is." "Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news," Denine snaps, "but Ashleia's a threat because people like her. All you've done to the jury is stab them in the back." "I suppose you think you are better because you 'tell it like it is'?" Vaclav asks. "This might get ugly," says Louie. "I'm just saying there is a reason you're up here with the rest of us goats," says Denine. "It's great that you're admitting your faults, but don't bring me into this," Rocky snaps. Ashleia lowers her head and covers her face with her hands, trying to block out the bickering. "Please, please, have a plan tonight," says Candace. "This is kind of why I said we had to vote Ashleia out," says Vaclav. "The three of us cannot get it together, and she is the most composed and sensible. This whole argument is stupid." "Yeah, let's just get this over with," says Rocky. "Whatever," Denine grumbles. $v["Alright..."] says Vincent. $v["I think we've covered everything, so let's get to the voting. You cannot vote for Denine, everyone else is fair game. Rocky, you are up first."] ... After the votes are cast, Vincent goes to the voting booth to collect the voting urn. $v["Once the votes are read, the decision is final,"] says Vincent. $v["The person voted off will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately. I'll read the votes..."] $v["First vote... Ashleia."] "Now I hope your little fight didn't screw this for us," says Rocky. "Oh, come on," say Denine and Vaclav at the same time. $v["Vaclav. One vote Vaclav, one vote Ashleia."] "Hang on... Denine, that is your handwriting," says Rocky. "I guess my hand slipped," says Denine. "You think this is funny? You're trying to force a tie because you would rather be independent than smart?" Rocky snaps. "All you're doing is pissing us off and wasting our time." $v["Third vote... Rocky. We have a three-way tie, one vote left."] Buddy gasps. "You weren't lying..." says Ashleia. "Who wasn't- oh!" Denine looks right at Vaclav. "Have you lost your mind?" $v["Final vote, fourteenth person voted out and the sixth member of our jury..."] "You wanted a tiebreaker so badly that you gave THE TARGET the deciding vote?" Rocky nearly shouts. "Now that is priceless," says Paula, trying to suppress a giggle. $v["**Rocky**. You need to bring me your torch."] "No!" Denine cries out. Rocky grits his teeth in anger, and Vaclav slumps down in his seat. Ashleia sighs in relief. "This is an absolute joke," says Rocky as he gets out of his seat. $v["The jury is asked not to give a standing ovation,"] says Vincent, sending a dirty look towards the jurors, who settle back into their seats reluctantly. Rocky slams his torch down in front of Vincent with enough power to shake the floorboards. $v["Rocky, the tribe has spoken,"] says Vincent. He snuffs the skunk boy's torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] Rocky trudges out of the building without a single goodbye. $v["The goal tonight was clearly to mislead each other to get your way,"] says Vincent, $v["and the one player who was honest about their intentions was punished for it. If that doesn't say something about the gameplay of this season, I don't know what does. You can head back to camp, and I will see you tomorrow for your final immunity challenge."] $m[//"After everything I did, it only makes sense that I lose because of someone else's stupid petty mistakes," says Rocky. "I shouldn't be out here right now, it should be Ashleia! I've been on the right side of every vote, I've accomplished more than any of these people, this should have been a done deal. Of course I'm angry, wouldn't you be if you were playing the best game but got voted out by a gaggle of whiny morons who didn't even appreciate it? This is not right, not right at all!"//] Voting Results: ''Rocky – Ashleia, Vaclav'' Ashleia – Rocky Vaclav – Denine [[Day 38<-Read Day 38]]

$m[**Day 38**] "Vaclav," says Denine, "I hope you're happy." "Ecstatic," Vaclav replies. "I didn't ask for you to respond," says Denine. "I didn't ask for you to lie to my face," says Vaclav. He then blows a raspberry at her. //"I would not want to protect Denine because it is what Louie would have wanted, or something like that," replies Vaclav. "I want to win, and she has had a lot more problems with other people than I have."// Vaclav leaves Denine alone and goes to talk to Ashleia. "I am very thankful that you believed me and voted with me," says Vaclav. "It was, like, really difficult," says Ashleia, "but did you listen to him? He so wanted me to leave instead, so I would have gotten nowhere if I kept him." "And now the jury should like that we did not make them choose between Denine and Rocky on day 39." //"If Rocky and Denine, like, both made the end because they were easy to beat," says Ashleia, "one of them would have to win. What would be the point in that? One of them had to go, and I think Rocky had enough chances."// A little later, Denine checks out the treemail box, and finds a letter inside. "Looks like judgment day is nigh," she mumbles as she opens up the letter. "Just as I suspected, final immunity time. Let's see if I can go for two wins in a row." //"I am super lucky that the last challenge was a puzzle component, since I'm pretty sure that if I didn't win that then I would be in Rocky's shoes," says Denine. "I didn't expect to get played like that last night."// Denine reads the letter she received aloud for the rest of the tribe. "Final three, it is time for you to pay tribute to the players who have fallen before you..." Denine trails off. "Oh, it's the same boiler plate letter they use every year. We're going to have to talk about everyone we've voted out, and then do the final challenge." "We should get going, then," says Vaclav. "Can we do anything else here?" "No, we do it on the way to the challenge," says Denine. "I know how this works," Vaclav replies crossly. "Like, can we do it without getting bitter at each other?" Ashleia asks. //"I need to win this more than anything," says Vaclav. "I hate not having a say, and the only way to have a say tonight is to win the challenge. I do not trust the women to vote against each other, not at all." "If I can win this challenge, that would be amazing," says Ashleia. "I'm, just, not feeling it? I don't know if I can, but I will try. I need to make sure Vaclav goes home." "I don't know what Vaclav's deal is with Ashleia, but I really do not like this new partnership of theirs," says Denine. "It just puts even more pressure on me to win this challenge, but you know what? I'm pumped for it, bring it on!"// $t[**Town Square**] Ashleia, Denine, and Vaclav arrive at the Town Square, where all of the props and decorations that had been present since the beginning of the game had been removed. Instead, two lit torches mark the path leading towards the old Chalpe campground as the path to take. "The challenge isn't, like, being held there, is it?" Ashleia wonders. "I doubt it, but it's not like we really know how else to get to the challenge area," says Denine. "Let's just see where the path takes us." "It might be different from the path we remember," Vaclav adds. The trio walks down the path towards Chalpe for a short distance, before they encounter a fork in the path. A new pathway up a steep slope had been cleared, and a rope blocked off the pathway to the Chalpe camp, leaving them no choice but to hike through the undergrowth. "I am going to be covered in rashes and bites tomorrow," Ashleia gripes. "How are you not already? It's day 38," says Denine. "I've, like, been careful to not go into the weeds and stuff," says Ashleia. They make their way upwards and onwards until the trees thin out and stop altogether. They see a mountain tower in front of them, but to everyone's relief, the path makes a sharp turn and continues without much change in elevation. "Do not look back down the hill," Vaclav says to himself. "Look forward..." Looking forward, he and his tribemates see what appears to be a small town built into the hillside using stone and adobe. A series of portraits are placed on the exterior walls several meters apart, with an unlit torch in the ground in front of each picture. The first picture the tribe sees is of an anthropomorphic female rabbit with gray fur, and a black T-shirt with a white dice emblem on the front. "Tara... I am very happy we voted her off before she could cause lots of problems," says Vaclav. "I never really met her, but I figured it was because of her size," says Denine. "It was kind of that as well," says Vaclav. "It was an easy decision for me, but it caused a lot of problems anyways. Our tribe was never the same." $q[//"With the tribe I had, I think I could have made it farther," says Tara, "but the twist made things all screwed up. I got a little too confident in my position because I thought I didn't need to put up a fight. What looked like a needless detail was an opportunity for someone else."//] The three make their way to the next torch. Hanging above it is a picture of an ethnic Korean woman with glasses, a yellow shirt, and a green clip in her hair. "I do not know what Min-Ji's problem was," says Ashleia. "She talked like she was so much smarter than everyone else." "From what I heard about her, it sounds like she thought she was as well," Denine adds. $o[//"Things did not go my way, I'm well aware," says Min-Ji. "I planned to bring the flint out after Rocky was gone to earn my spot in the tribe, and that all fell apart. What a mess. At least that little snake Jarrett got what he deserved in the end."//] Vaclav moves on to the next torch, with Ashleia and Denine right behind. The portrait above it is of a cheerful young blonde, with light blue eyes and a matching shirt. "I knew nothing about her," says Vaclav. "She looked like a sweetheart." "Buddy insisted she, like, was not an angel at all," says Ashleia. "That's one thing we agree on," says Denine. "Lisa was irritating as hell. Finding out that she was just pretending, and was deliberately being obnoxious, was the final straw. I don't have the patience for someone like that." $c[//"My tribe was bipolar, that's really the only explanation," says Lisa. "Oh, we hate Buddy so much, let's get rid of him first. I was down, and then suddenly when they had a reason to, they called **me** the bad guy? Now that's just bullshit. Everything I said to them was the truth. The Buddy stuff doesn't count, that was strategy!"//] The next picture was of what appears to be a young blond-haired man with pale skin, blue eyes, and a blue shirt. Unlike Lisa, his expression is muted and neutral. There seem to be two pastel blue wings behind him. "I am, like, still mad that Saul got voted out. He did not deserve it," says Ashleia. "That's Jarrett for you," Denine adds. "Let me guess, he thought Saul was a jury threat or something," says Vaclav. $o[//"I tried to be a mediator, and my tribe did not appreciate my efforts," says Saul. "It was indeed humbling. Perhaps I do not have the personality one needs to succeed in Survivor."//] The final three moves on to the next torch. The picture above it is of a dark-skinned man with black hair, dark brown eyes, and a sports jersey. "Voting Jarrett out felt good," says Vaclav. "He played the game hard, but he did not play well." "The moment he went after my lifeline in this game, he was finished," Denine adds. "Aw, I am your lifeline?" Vaclav coos. "That is very sweet of you to say." "Hey Vaclav," says Denine, "shut your trap." As they move on to the next torch, Ashleia stays behind briefly. "I'm upset that you lied to me," she says, "but, like, thank you. You didn't realize, or want to help me and stuff, but you showed me all the things I would need to do to make it this far." $o[//"I was doing damn well," says Jarrett, "until that stupid swap. They just wanted a scapegoat since they couldn't do anything about Rocky. Serves me right for not playing hardball 24/7, though, right? The only thing I'm happy about is that I'm not on the jury bench being forced to watch that crowd of duds."//] The players continue down the path until they come across another torch. Above it is a picture of a middle-aged man with gray hair, bluish eyes, and a green buttoned shirt. "Monty was a nice and caring man," says Vaclav. "It was sad to see him go." "I never really saw it," says Denine. "He annoyed me, and I didn't really argue when his name came up." "With Jackie around, his name was always up," Vaclav replies. $q[//"I shouldn't ha' been out this early," says Monty. "The way my time out here ended just ain't right. I may not be fixing to manipulate nobody, but only two kids ever gave me even a 'thank you'. It's a crying shame to be sittin' here 'cause a bunch of entitled millennials don't appreciate a hard worker. If I knew that these low lives would fool me, I'da stayed home."//] The final three move on to the next torch. Above this torch is a picture of a young woman with long blonde hair and green eyes, and wearing a black and red jacket. "Jackie was very determined," says Ashleia. "I think that was a good thing and a bad thing for her." "I was looking forward to working with her, but then Khall did his thing," Denine admits. "The two were very close," says Vaclav. "I do not think any of us know the whole story behind why they fell apart." $q[//"This didn't go the way I wanted it to," says Jackie, "but it's not like I feel bad about what I did. I won a lot of things, I blindsided Monty, and I went down swinging. Considering I got robbed of my rightful place in the merge tribe, this experience was as good as it could have been."//] The players walk over to the next torch, with another picture hanging above it. This one is of a cloaked figure, and only his eyes could be seen beneath the indigo hood. "What is there to say about Khall besides mysterious?" says Denine. "Shame it wasn't in the handsome and brooding way." "He was very light-hearted and full of joy, whether you wanted to see it or not," Vaclav adds. "Khall is just weird," says Ashleia. "At least he took that, like, hidden idol out of the game with him." Vaclav's expression immediately sours, while Denine rolls her eyes and smiles. $q[//"This was just not my game," says Khall. "From the first tribal council when I lost a good friend, to my last one where everyone voted me out, I did not fit in with the other players. They all wanted to be ruthless, and I guess I had too much ruth to get ahead. If I had to be mean and strategic to make it to the jury, then I'm happy with where I ended up."//] After Khall's torch, the path begins to descend down the other side of the mountain. Vaclav looks down and gulps. "Oh, you cannot be serious," says Denine. "It's just a hill. Come on." She walks briskly down the path, winding its way down the hillside. At one bend in the path, Denine stops in front of a pole. Hanging from the pole is a portrait of a brunette woman with her hair brushed over one side of her head, brown eyes, and a denim jacket. A torch lies on the ground in front of the pole, instead of being stood upright. "Jennifer... what a firecracker," says Denine, as her opponents arrive behind her. "And like most firecrackers, she had a very colourful explosion." "Like, I did not see it coming," Ashleia adds. "I guess Vincent is really strict about the whole rules thing." "Too bad her short moment of spite meant nothing and saved no one," says Vaclav. "Yeah, if it wasn't for that," Denine says, "I wouldn't be here, and the game would have been a lot more boring." $c[//"I got the opportunity to learn a fair bit about myself and how I deal with other people," says Jennifer. "It obviously did not end on the best of terms, but there is nothing I can do about that now but grow from it. I met some cool people, did some cool things, and I'm walking away with some good memories. If any of you want to try your hand at an adventure like this one, I'm begging you – do your research!"//] The path descends back into the forest, and the final three treks onwards down the slope until the path levels out at the next torch. The torch is stood upright in front of a tree, from which hangs a portrait of a young woman with black hair and caramel-coloured skin. She has brown eyes and is wearing a forest green shirt. "I have a lot to thank Paula for," says Vaclav. "She was my first friend out here, and she never talked down to me." "She was way too clever for her own good," says Ashleia. "Like, why would she go behind our backs to make deals with you guys that she wouldn't follow through on?" Denine shrugs. "It didn't bother me at all. It opened up the door for voting her out, which was probably the highlight of my game. It was //so// satisfying." "I'll bet," Ashleia says dryly. $q[//"I definitely feel a bit guilty that my trying to cover all of my bases resulted in my alliance getting pretty much destroyed," says Paula. "I pushed through my share of highs and lows, and I'm still going to get to see day 39, even if it's on the wrong side of the building." She has a quick giggle before composing herself. "There really isn't much more I could ask for."//] The path drops down again after this torch, and the final three continue the trek downhill. They come to a stop at a bend in the road, where a torch is stood upright in front of another picture. This picture is a portrait of a twenty-something man with shoulder-length blond hair, green eyes, and a purple and blue plaid shirt. "Rhett was interesting, to say the least," says Denine. "Do you think we will ever know why he, uh, snapped?" Vaclav asks. "I don't know," says Ashleia. "He was the most, like, loyal member of our alliance, but then he kind of missed the point. Voting him out was the right thing to do, looking back." $c[//"The psychological component of Survivor is not to be underestimated," Rhett explains. "I had made the assumption that I would be physically taxed but operating near my peak mental capabilities. Now that proper nutrition and rest are available to me, I know I am more than ready to tackle final tribal council and to make the correct decision that ensures a worthy winner."//] Not much farther down the path, the final three find the next torch. Behind it, hanging from a tree, is a portrait of a young yet overweight anthropomorphic otter. His dark brown eyes match his medium brown fur, and his black and white visor contrasts with his muted blue jacket. "Louie, my first and probably only real ally," says Denine. Vaclav nods. "He was the first person I could count on when I was on a new tribe by myself." "I could not have made it this far without him," Denine adds. "He was a great guy to have in our corner, and I feel like I could relate with him in a way I couldn't relate with anyone else." "Just knowing I had him to fall back on made me feel better, and play better, too," says Vaclav. "Like, are you kidding me?" Ashleia places her hands on her hips. "He was bitter, antisocial, cocky, and voting him out was so good for the attitude at camp. I almost wanted to thank Rocky for turning on him." "You don't need to be so negative," says Denine. $c[//"I was playing a good, low key game," says Louie, "and even though I could have been flashier and more bombastic, that's just not my thing. It was hard enough being with a bunch of people I couldn't stand. On a happier note, I'm looking forward to final tribal council, now that I know at least one finalist will be someone tolerable."//] The path continues its downward incline, but near the bottom of the slope, the final three encounters another torch placed upright, with a portrait hung from a tree immediately behind. The portrait shows a young man with fair skin, blond hair, blue eyes, and a gray t-shirt. "I like Buddy," says Ashleia. "He seemed really genuine when I talked to him, and I don't meet a lot of honest guys like him." "He has a lot of confidence, and the way he expressed it really rubbed me the wrong way," Denine explains. "I'm not surprised that we fought so much." "I don't think you really got to know the stuff that was underneath that confidence," Ashleia replies. "That was the fake stuff." "Well, we know his friendship with Paula was real stuff," says Vaclav. "That was all I thought about him for a while. I hope he is not too mad at me anymore." $c[//"I overcame a lot to get as far as I did," says Buddy. "I had my back against the wall a lot more than I would have liked, and that caught up with me in the end. I'm really thankful for the wonderful people I got to meet and work with, though, and for the others... well, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, as they say."//] At the foot of the slope, Ashleia, Denine, and Vaclav all stop momentarily to catch their breaths. They then continue on the path, noticing that they are not far from another clearing. The trio pushes on to the next torch. Behind this torch is a portrait of a blonde woman with brown eyes, tanned skin, and a light blue shirt. "Candace! She's my bestie out here, you know?" Ashleia says excitedly. "She scared me," says Vaclav. "I was worried about her health when she got sick, and then about my health when she got better." "She never actually wanted to hurt anyone," says Ashleia. "I think she could have been a bigger threat in challenges than she was," says Denine. "I'm glad we got her out, because we all know what would have happened if she controlled who would make the end." "Oh, whatever, Denine..." Ashleia flips her hair over her right shoulder. $o[//"I started out as more of a passive player, but when that didn't work out for me I shifted gears and never looked back," says Candace. "If I kept letting other people run me, I wouldn't feel like I had really accomplished anything. But I pushed myself farther than I thought I could be pushed, and I'm leaving with a better understanding of who I am as a person. It's a great feeling."//] Halfway between Candace's portrait and the end of the path, the castaways find one last torch standing upright. Behind it, placed on a signpost, is a portrait of an anthropomorphic skunk with sunglasses and a leather jacket. "He's finally, finally out," says Ashleia. "It only took, like, 31 days more than it had to. Thanks, Min-Ji." "And Saul, Monty, Jennifer, Paula, Rhett, Buddy, Vaclav..." says Denine. "You were the one who teamed up with him in the first place," Vaclav points out. "I did not tell him to play his idol." "Well, it makes no sense that you would vote him out after enduring him for so long," says Denine. "He may have been a goat, but he was no fool," Vaclav replies. "If we did not vote him out, he would bring you to the end, and we did not want that to happen for obvious reasons." "And the jury kind of wants to vote for someone who was nice to them," Ashleia adds. $o[//"I'm pissed! Those chumps were totally blinded, and I had the perfect setup for victory, but then Denine just had to win immunity because of that stupid puzzle," Rocky complains. "That wasn't even a majority vote! I don't want to be picking between any of the three losers left. None of them played harder or better than me, so why do any of them deserve it?"//] At the end of the path, the final three contestants enter a familiar clearing, where Vincent is standing in front of six upright wooden slabs. $v["I hope you enjoyed your little trip down memory lane,"] says Vincent, $v["but it's time to jump right into the next challenge."] "After we walked all the way here?" Ashleia asks. $v["Would you rather do it in the rain?"] Vincent gestures upwards to a sky full of dark clouds. $v["Here's how this will work. You will press your back against one of these wooden slabs, and hold your feet against a footboard attached to the slab across from it. When the challenge begins, you are allowed to move, as long as you stay in contact with both wooden slabs and not with the ground. Last one remaining wins immunity at tonight's tribal council. Are you all ready?"] "Yeah, let's do this," says Denine, excitedly. "Ready," says Vaclav. "Alright," says Ashleia. $v["Then, take your spots, and we'll get started,"] Vincent replies. $t[//Later//] "All of you are in position," says Vincent, "so the challenge begins now." "Either of you want to make any deals?" Denine asks. "Not until I know you, like, will follow through with it," says Ashleia. "I don't need your help," says Vaclav. "Well, I gave you guys the option," Denine replies. "I've been waiting to win this challenge for years." "We are thirty minutes into the challenge, and everyone is still holding strong," says Vincent. "Denine, how are you holding up?" "Really well," says Denine. "This is what I've been waiting for. I might not be able to run faster or throw harder than everyone, but I can win an endurance challenge." "We have not had very many this season," says Vaclav. "Yeah," says Denine, "and the only one I can remember, I was the first to fall off because Rocky made me laugh. The stakes are too high for that to happen again." "I'm also, like, afraid to know what would make you laugh enough to fall down," says Ashleia, "so I'm just... not going to try to think about it." Denine nods. "Wise move, Ash." Vaclav blinks, keeping his eyes closed for a full second before opening them again. "Raindrop," he mutters. "Drop top," Denine replies. Vincent smiles. "It's been fifty-four minutes, everyone is still in this, but a new variable has been added to the equation: rain." "Or it will all blow over, hopefully," Ashleia suggests. "I'm surprised it took this long, really," says Denine. "It's been an hour and twenty minutes," Vincent calls out, "and the rain has only gotten heavier. Vaclav, you've been quiet." "Focusing," Vaclav answers. "Ashleia, how are you doing?" Vincent asks. "I feel horrible," Ashleia replies. "My legs were already aching from the walk over, and this rain is just-" Without a warning, her arms slip. While trying to readjust, her knees buckle, and she hits the damp ground. "Ouch. Are you hurt?" Vincent asks. "Not really," Ashleia replies. "That's good," says Vincent. "Sadly, you are out of the challenge, but you do get to sit here with me and try to warm up." Ashleia gets up and walks over to Vincent, leaving Denine and Vaclav still fighting to win immunity. "Two hours later," says Vincent, "and neither the challenge nor the rain have stopped." "What will it take for you to drop?" Denine asks. "Are you getting desperate?" Vaclav asks in turn. "Of course not," Denine snaps. "I just see no reason to prolong anyone's suffering. Neither of us want to be here all night, but if it comes to that, I will stay here all night." "Why should I drop and give immunity to the person who tried to betray me yesterday?" Vaclav asks. "That round was a coin flip," Denine explains, "because I wanted to take Rocky to the end. We all did." "I wanted to take you to the end before you did that," says Vaclav. "Oh, bullshit you did!" Denine enunciates every syllable. "You just wanted to not follow Louie out the door." "What's your point?" Vaclav replies. "If it was a coin flip, why should I believe that you will protect me?" "You have my word," says Denine, "that if you drop in the next ten seconds, I will vote Ashleia out. Ten... nine..." Denine counts down to zero. Vaclav does not move. "Fine, have it your way," says Denine. "Hey, Ash, good news! The longer we stay out here, the better your odds of winning get!" Ashleia turns to Vincent. "I'd be okay with waiting if I wasn't soaked. Can't we, like, get a tent or something?" "We're not bringing out a tent," Vincent replies. "Please? Or at least a waterproof space heater?" Ashleia asks. "How is that an 'at least', Ash?" "Three and a half hours have passed," says Vincent, "and we still have two people in the running." "I'm not letting you win this one, Vaclav," Denine threatens. "Your chances are only getting worse." "Denine, if I win this, I might vote you out based on spite alone," Vaclav counters. "Save your spite for wherever I have you tomorrow," says Denine. Ashleia looks disappointed at this exchange. "They have no respect for each other." "Does that make you feel better about your chances?" Vincent asks. "I feel about the same," says Ashleia, "because I expected them to talk like that." An hour later, the rain has let up slightly, but the sun has also begun to set behind the Andean mountains. "We don't even get the sun to warm us up again," Ashleia complains. "I hope this doesn't, like, shrink my dress." "It has been four and a half hours," says Vincent. "You have to be feeling it by now." "If you think that will make me give up, you are very wrong," Vaclav insists. "Same here. I am not going down without a fight," says Denine. "Denine, earlier you've mentioned that you're on the fence as to who to take with you to the end," says Vincent. "What are your thoughts on that now that we've been out here for this long?" "That's for me to know and them to find out," says Denine. "Although I will continue to insist to Vaclav that I am aware of Ashleia's popularity with the jury, so it is never too late or risky to take an honourable defeat." "Safety is more important than honour," Vaclav shoots back. "Alright, I'll check on you again shortly," says Vincent. "Five hours have passed," says Vincent, "and Denine and Vaclav are both still in this. How much longer can they keep this up?" "Do you still think you can go all night?" Vaclav asks. "No, but can you?" Denine responds. "Not all night," says Vaclav. He shivers slightly; the cold rain had subsided, but it was already dusk. "Then all I need to do is outlast you," says Denine, "however long it takes." She looks no more comfortable than Vaclav, however. "I was really not going to win this one," Ashleia says quietly. "I cannot believe they're still at it." Thirty minutes later, and not only had it gotten dark, but the rain had started up again. "Both time and nature are definitely taking a toll now," says Vincent. "How long can Denine and Vaclav stand it?" "As long as we can bear it," Vaclav replies. "I am not going to drop for anything." "I might," says Denine. "Really?" Vincent asks. "No," Denine answers. Silence. A few more minutes pass, as the light drizzle continues. Vincent and Ashleia, both sitting on a bench, are both visibly anxious, but Denine and Vaclav dare not move a muscle. Eventually, one person cannot take the stress, and collapses to the ground. Vincent stands up to call the challenge off. $v["After five hours and forty-one minutes, this challenge is over. **Vaclav wins immunity!**"] "Holy..." Vaclav falls to the ground, holds his face in his hands, and mumbles something in Czech. Denine, exhausted, barely moves at all, letting the rain trickle down her body as the reality sets in. $t[//Later//] The rain continues to pour, but Vincent is not deterred. He holds the immunity necklace before the final three contestants. $v["Vaclav, congratulations, you have earned immunity,"] says Vincent. $v["Tonight, you cannot be voted out, which means that your opponents have no choice but to vote against each other. You and you alone will decide who will have a spot in the final round."] Vaclav is overcome with pride and relief as the host puts the necklace around him. $v["Ashleia and Denine..."] "Wait." Vincent stops, and looks at Vaclav, who had made the objection. "I want to go right to tribal council," says Vaclav. "We are wet, cold, and out of breath. I know Denine and Ash have thought about what to say to me if I won." $v["Hm... any objections?"] Vincent asks. "I don't want to be out here any longer than I have to," says Denine. "Yeah, I am, like, drenched," Ashleia adds. Vincent nods. $v["In that case, let's get a move on. You're going to need time to rest tonight, since tomorrow is a big day, so I have no problem granting your wish."] $v[**Tribal Council**] The final three are all sitting as close to the fire as possible to warm up. Vincent, wearing a new and dry set of clothes, speaks up. $v["Let's welcome in the members of the jury. Paula, Rhett, Louie, Buddy, Candace... and Rocky, voted out last tribal council."] The six members of the jury walk into the tribal council building and take their seats on the jury bench. All of them are somewhat wet, not having been completely protected from the rain. The blue dye Rocky had applied on his face in Ponderosa is starting to run, dripping blue onto his closed purple jacket and black ripped jeans. $v["Vaclav, this is usually a really difficult position for people,"] says Vincent. $v["You seem eager to get this over with. Why is that?"] "I just do not want to make things go on for longer than they need to," Vaclav admits. "I think I know what I need to do. This council will take care of the last doubts in my mind." $v["Let's get to your pleas, then. Ashleia, why should Vaclav vote Denine out?"] Vincent asks. "He should vote Denine out because of how close they have been," says Ashleia. "Vaclav, you played an idol when you did not need to, which is why you felt so, like, vulnerable the next round. You should have just let the toxic people get voted out, then you would have all the power. If you vote me out, then all you did is clear the path to the end for Denine. You need to show that you did this for yourself by voting out the other person you helped get this far." "No way did he do this all for Denine," says Rocky. "Nobody would." $v["Denine,"] says Vincent, $v["why should Vaclav vote out Ashleia?"] "Look at the jury. Paula, Rhett, Buddy, Candace, Rocky. You screwed all of them over, and most of them love Ash," says Denine. "It's why Louie and I wanted her out ages ago. Sure, she may not have the greatest resume, but she's the underdog. Ash wants you to underestimate her, and the only big move she needs is to convince you that you can win against her." "Wait, that's it?" Candace asks. "Seriously?" $v["Vaclav, has this helped you make your mind up?"] Vincent asks. "Yes," says Vaclav. "I am ready to vote." $v["Alright, then it is time to do so,"] says Vincent. $v["Ashleia, you can only vote for Denine. Denine, you can only vote for Ashleia. Vaclav holds the sole power, and he is up."] Vaclav gets up and briskly walks to the voting booth. "Here it goes," he says to himself as he picks up the voting pen. He writes down a name, folds up the voting parchment, and carries it with him out of the voting booth. $v["Once the vote is read, the decision is final,"] says Vincent as he takes the parchment from Vaclav. $v["The person whose name is written on this vote will be asked to leave the Tribal Council area immediately."] Ashleia and Denine both look fairly anxious, while Vaclav is uncharacteristically calm. $v["The fifteenth person voted out..."] Vincent is interrupted by the sound of someone hitting their thighs to make a drumroll sound. $v["Buddy. Please?"] Buddy stops, but Paula is already flush from the embarrassment. $v["Ahem. Fifteenth person voted out of Survivor: Inca Legacy,"] says Vincent, $v["and the seventh and final member of the jury, is..."] Silence. Vincent opens the parchment and reveals it to the competitors. $v["**Ashleia**. You need to bring me your torch."] "Damn..." says Candace. Ashleia's other friends on the jury also show visible disappointment, but Louie whispers "yes" and does a subtle fist pump. "Yeah... makes sense, and stuff," says Ashleia, getting up from her seat and retrieving her torch. She walks over to Vincent, and plants her torch in front of him. $v["Ashleia, the tribe has spoken,"] says Vincent. He extinguishes the blonde beauty's torch. $v["It's time for you to go."] "Can I, like, get an umbrella?" Ashleia asks. $v["A what? You're not heading back to camp,"] says Vincent. "Yeah, that's why I asked, you know?" Ashleia replies. "Since I'm out of the game, now... I don't want to get any more wet or muddy than I have to." Vincent shakes his head. $v["Ashleia, you've been out here for thirty-eight days with no problem. I'm sure five more minutes won't kill you."] Ashleia sighs. "Worth a try. See you two tomorrow." Ashleia waves the final two goodbye and walks out of the building. Vincent turns to face Vaclav and Denine. $v["Today's challenge turned into an intense duel between the two of you. Tomorrow will be a rematch, but your fates are out of your hands. Seven people you voted out – or didn't, in Louie's case – have the power tomorrow. You have one more night here in Peru, make the most of it. For the last time, you can head back to camp."] $m[//"I tried my hardest," says Ashleia. "I knew that I would struggle because some people just don't take me seriously, but I proved that I am more than just a pretty face and a good body. People here didn't call me weak or spoiled, they called me a threat. It's, like, an honour! I had a lot of fun, but I do kind of miss having things like soap, champagne, makeup, real food..."//] Voting Result: **Ashleia – Vaclav** [[Day 39<-Read Day 39]]

$m[**Day 39**] "You made the right decision last night," says Denine, watching the last of the tribe's rice slowly cook over the fire. "You would say that," replies Vaclav. "Remember that I did it for myself." "Yeah, but did you hear the jury when they saw you voted her out? Most of them were crushed," says Denine. "If either of us wanted to beat her, we would have to completely trip her up, or blow the jury away." "You think this is easier for both of us?" Vaclav asks. "It's a more even playing field," Denine answers. //"If Ashleia was in the final two, I have no doubt that her jury connections would have made tribal council a done deal from the beginning," theorizes Denine. "Right now, though, it's a complete toss-up. I can see myself getting Rhett's vote, and Vaclav getting Rocky's, but other than that it really comes down to the final Tribal Council."// "Oh, and not that it matters," says Denine, "but last night, I was bluffing." "You had made up your mind?" Vaclav asks. "Who were you going to vote out?" "Ashleia," says Denine. "If you wanted me in the finale over her, then you should not have tried to vote me out in the final four," says Vaclav. "I thought Ashleia was going to side with me and try to take you out as well." Denine crosses her arms. "Rocky was getting a bit too close to you for my liking, and I wanted him to be blindsided for once. My goal was to get Rocky to the end, and if I had backstabbed you the same way he backstabbed Louie, then he wouldn't have the strategic advantage and I would have had an easy victory." "Well, I am glad that Ashleia did not want to risk having that final two happen," says Vaclav. "At least I had immunity, so now Rocky isn't going to win squat," Denine adds. //"Denine is telling me why she did the things she has done recently," says Vaclav, "which is weird. I would not want to tell my competition how I played. It just gives me a way to undercut her, right? Unless she does not need to say that to the jury, and if that is true then I have no idea what I am in for. This could be really bad."// Later in the day, after the finalists have taken some time alone to go over their speeches and strategies, they met up again in front of the camp. "Well, it's been fun," says Denine. "Too bad about the rain; I was really hoping to burn this place to the ground "I, uh, I'm not sure I like that idea," says Vaclav. "There are a lot of trees around here, so if we somehow got this very wet wood to catch fire, it could have spread... quickly." "That's kind of a weak reason, but-" Denine is cut off. "Also, do you actually want to set the latrine on fire?" Vaclav continues. Denine grimaces. "...I suppose not." "This rain is for the best." //"I tried to help Denine, and she tried to abuse it," says Vaclav, "so I hope for her sake that she does not think I will be easy on her. I will do what I can to show how I was different from her, and I hope the jury will appreciate that." "I have a good feeling about tonight," says Denine. "Vaclav has a tendency of shooting himself in the foot when under the slightest bit of pressure, and tonight he doesn't have me and Louie to bail him out. I need to be composed and rational and explain everything thoroughly. Nobody's vote is set in stone, and depending on what Vaclav and I say, that could be really good or really bad."// $v[**Tribal Council**] Denine and Vaclav sit down in front of the fire in the tribal council building one last time. Their torches are placed at the back of the room, and the heavy rain outside is occasionally silenced by a thunderclap. $v["It's extra ambient tonight. It matches perfectly with such a dramatic event!"] Vincent says happily. The final two fake laughter, only to be polite. $v["Let's welcome in the jury,"] says Vincent. $v["Paula, Rhett, Louie, Buddy, Candace, Rocky, and Ashleia who was voted out last night."] The full seven-person jury enters the tribal council building. Ashleia is wearing a short red dress with a single shoulder strap, and a gold-coloured belt and pair of flats. She does not have a purse with her, nor does she have a fake idol bracelet. $v["These seven players will decide which one of you is worthy of the title Sole Survivor,"] says Vincent. $v["They will get a chance to ask you questions about how you played the game, which will play a major part in determining how they cast their vote. You want at least four of them to write your name down. First, however, you will each be allowed to plead your case to the jury. Denine, you're up first."] "Hi, all! Before I begin, I just want to say how much of a dream come true it's been for me to play this game," says Denine. "It was everything I could have hoped for. As much as I could, I tried to play with honesty and loyalty. I got along with Louie from the beginning, and from there I balanced forming a strong connection with him and staying in the loop with the tribe. After the swap I did everything I could to protect them, which involved keeping Louie and his new ally in the game, and breaking apart the Quibas majority on my new tribe. When Jennifer got kicked off the show, I seized the chance to put my own social circle on top with blindsiding Paula. Then things went south, but the more Rocky tried to take control, the more I was able to build a case against him. When the dust settled, I was the one everyone wanted to work with, and I made the most of it to get the end result I wanted." $v["Vaclav, it's your turn."] "Hi, sorry but I am not good at speeches," Vaclav confesses. "I will try, though. I played very defensive, and when I saw a risk, I did my best to contain it. Tara was dangerous to me, so I convinced three strangers to get her out. When the tribes swapped, I was in the worst position out of anyone, but turning the tables on Jarrett was my idea and I got the votes to do it. And when someone wanted to vote out Khall, I jumped on it to get rid of another wildcard. From there I told Denine, Louie, and Rocky, who everyone wanted to keep in the dark, and I got everyone to vote the way I wanted without realizing it. I never started a fight with any of you, I always listened, and when that didn't work, I won immunity. That is why I think I had a very strong social game, strategic game, and physical game." $v["Thank you for your speeches,"] says Vincent. $v["Now, let's get on to what the members of the jury have to think about how they have watched you play. Buddy, you are up first."] Buddy gets up from his seat and walks to between the jury bench and the finalists. "Right... I was hoping that I wouldn't have to decide between you two, but I guess it's fair because you both have a lot to answer for. Denine, you went out of your way to be belligerent towards pretty much anyone you crossed paths with. I don't know why you started off on me, but whatever, I'm used to that. Ditching Jennifer when the swap hit, fine. You held a grudge, people do that. What I don't get is why you took so much pride in voting Khall out. How were you responsible for that at all?" "It wasn't about him leaving, it was about how you, Jennifer, Rhett, and whoever else wanted to keep me and Louie in the dark so you had easy targets," says Denine. "All it did was make us not want to turn on each other." "Oh, you mean the alliance that voted out a grand total of one person before needing an idol to bail themselves out?" "We broke your majority without using it," Denine counters. Buddy shakes his head. "I might come back to you later. Vaclav, what drove you to shoot your own game in the foot at the merge? We all liked you well enough, and we had lined up four people who would definitely leave before you. What made you so distrusting of the people who actually gave you the time of day?" "When did you give me the time of day, again?" Vaclav replies. "You, Buddy, personally." "At the very start of the game when I voted Tara out for you," says Buddy. Vaclav is completely stunned by this response. "Huh!? You just voted with Paula because you knew each other already." "Well, since you're going to bring that up," says Buddy, "what made you think it was a bright idea to accuse me and Paula of being connected? It was just making you look desperate and bitter, when you were already hanging on by a thread." "I had won immunity the round before," says Vaclav, "and I knew my name was going around. I had to do something." "Well, if you weren't in danger, would you have said anything?" "Yes," says Vaclav, "I would not have waited for much longer. You did have an advantage with the jury, and I was not comfortable with it." "Right..." Buddy returns to his seat without any formalities. $v["Thank you, Buddy. Rhett, care to follow that up?"] requests Vincent. Rhett nods and takes his place in front of the finalists. "I am faced with a very difficult choice," he says. "Denine, we had the occasional moment of connection, but I feel you squandered it because of your own feuds. Vaclav, you made social connections, but you always kept your distance from everyone. In my opinion, both of you have gaping holes in your resumes. Vaclav I will begin with you, what would convince you to betray your closest ally and cause such chaos?" "I kept my distance so I would not be the more expendable person in a pair," says Vaclav. "It gave me the space to watch everyone carefully to see what they were planning. I felt that Paula was leading me astray, and when she discussed switching sides at the final nine, it did not line up with what I knew about her. I wanted to avoid being the scapegoat for her betrayal, and I could no longer trust her after that." "Wait. Paula told you she wanted to switch sides?" Rhett asks. "She just said she was considering it," says Vaclav. Paula sheepishly looks away from the finalists and Rhett. "Shameful," Rhett mutters. "Now, on to Denine. What persuaded you to abandon your old tribe? We were working as a unit, even after the unfortunate situation with Lisa. Even after the merge, we excelled when we were in a team together. Why did you let the pointless rivalry you had with Buddy interfere with that?" "There was no way in hell that Buddy would side with us and not you and Jennifer once it was down to just us," says Denine. "And then with Jennifer just assuming I would stick by her side like a loyal puppy dog, that just did not sit well. I did not intend on taking any bullets for anyone, especially when Jennifer was implicitly flipping to the old Quibas people, who did not need her help at all." "You could have just voted out Rocky," Rhett insists. "What, and where would that leave me? He and Jackie presented me with a desirable alternative to just going with the flow, so I took it. Rocky had an idol all the way back then, and if that came into play, I wanted to be nowhere near the blast radius." "So, you thought appeasement would work for you?" Rhett asks. "It worked out well enough for Europe in the 1930s." "It worked out even better for me," says Denine. Rhett raises an eyebrow slightly. "Alright, then. Thanks." He heads back to his seat. $v["Candace, you're up,"] says Vincent. Candace gets out of her seat and walks to stand in front of the finalists. "Hey, guys. I don't have a lot to say, because I don't think I got to know either of you all that well..." "I don't think that is true," says Vaclav. "Well, let me finish first," Candace insists. "Being out here showed me that I didn't need to act the way I thought people wanted me to, if I wanted to be accepted by them. I learned, or re-learned, that I could be authentic. So, I want to know what the two of you will be taking away from this experience. Vaclav, let's start with you." "I think I learned that being afraid does not make me weak," says Vaclav. "A lot of the time, I was nervous, or unsure about what others would do, but instead of cowering or trying to hide it, I put that energy into standing up for myself. When nobody had my back, I had nothing to lose, so I guess I learned to be more confident as well." "How about you, Denine?" Candace asks. "This opportunity has changed me. I learned that, well, sometimes I do come across as kind of bitchy," says Denine. "I realized that I was isolating myself, so now I'm trying my best to be nicer, more open and more social. We may have been in opposing alliances, but I still tried my best to form a connection with you, Rhett, and Ashleia." "I don't remember much of a connection," says Candace, "with either of you." "Candace, when you were sick and in pain," says Vaclav, a bit too dramatically, "I offered you my rice and made sure you were well. I even told Louie not to vote you out because I knew you did not want to give up on the game." "We made that deal to work together despite our alliances in the final seven," says Denine hurriedly, "and it kept us both in for that extra while longer." "Well, I mean... ehhh...." Candace's facial expression changes to a very unsure one. "If you guys are going to stick to your guns, there's really nothing more I can say." She returns to her seat, clearly unsatisfied. $v["Alright then. Louie, you are next,"] says Vincent. Louie gets up and walks over to the finalists. "Thank you, guys, for taking each other to the end, so that I can actually be happy with the person that wins," he says. "Unfortunately, I have to choose between you, and that's almost as bad. I suppose I will base my votes off what you think the best move you made was." Denine smiles. "Definitely the plan to blindside Paula," she answers. "It set the ball rolling for our alliance to dominate the game, after all." Vaclav looks annoyed by this. "Hey, I came up with that idea first." "WHAT?!" Paula yells from the jury. "If I hadn't checked Rocky's bag and found an idol, I would have told you 'no way, we need her vote'," says Denine. "You may have said it first, but you didn't pull it off." "I did just as much as you did, Denine," Vaclav replies. "When Paula said that she was going to vote you out, Louie, I made the call to vote her out. I had the chance to say no to 'Plan B', but I went with my gut." "I could have just as easily done the same," Denine counters. "You think I didn't consider flipping back after Jennifer was ejected? She's the one who kept me away from them, anyways." "I thought that was Buddy," says Vaclav. "Vaclav, you would have had just as hard a time as Denine flipping back," says Louie, "since you were going to hashtag expose Paula and Buddy." "It was only a hunch until after Rhett was voted out," Vaclav replies. "Sure. Well, answer my question about the best move," says Louie. "Agreeing with Rocky to vote Rhett out," says Vaclav. "It let everyone know that I was not just your third vote, it got rid of someone making my game difficult, and I am sure that Ashleia was grateful enough for it to help me in the final-four vote." "Okay, thank you both," says Louie. "Good luck, you need it." He returns to the jury bench. $v["Ashleia, you're up,"] says Vincent. Ashleia gets up from her seat and confidently walks towards the finalists. "Okay, I'll start off with a congratulations! You both should be pretty proud that you got to the end, you know?" The finalists smile. "But what did either of you actually, like, do?" The finalists stop smiling. "Both of you are just trying to take credit for the things you did together," says Ashleia. "And for most of us, we only saw you try to blindside each other and, like, nothing else. Is that, like, all the game is to both of you? And, like, if it was just you guys trying to hide behind other people or whatever, how can we reward you for that?" "It's just as much about the moves you do make as it is about the ones you don't make," says Denine. "I could have voted for Buddy when I knew Lisa was lying. I could have attacked Paula's character. I could have thrown Rocky under the bus. Also, don't say that you never got to interact with any of us, that is blatantly false. We had the mud spa reward, remember?" "Denine, that is barely, like, anything." Ashleia crosses her arms. "Come on, the alternative was Rocky." "Don't bring me up like that," Rocky snaps from the jury bench. "But it's true!" Ashleia counters. "Denine, you never really went out of your way to be a social person. As soon as the reward was over, you were thinking about voting me out." "That wasn't personal," says Denine, "it was because of who was in your alliance!" "So, all the game to you is, like, voting people out?" Ashleia raises an eyebrow. "No, I mean I didn't want to hurt you when I did that," says Denine. "I said it then, and it's still true now, I thought you were the biggest threat." "I mean, I guess I can accept that answer," says Ashleia. "Vaclav, over to you. You were a little more social, and you did try to relate to them, but then you just expected us to help you all the time! And when anyone counted on you, you stabbed them in the back. Like, three times!" "I did what I thought was best with what I knew," says Vaclav. "I had a decent connection with Paula, but after a point I couldn't trust her. Candace I could not predict, while you and Buddy both tried to eliminate me on Chalpe." "We wanted to vote Louie out, not you," says Ashleia. "Louie was the only ally on the tribe I had then," Vaclav reminds her. "Even if I had just met him. Did you expect me to just believe that once you voted him out, I would be perfectly safe, especially with Jarrett still around?" "Well, what about yesterday?" Ashleia asks. "You made a big deal about how you could save me in the final four, we vote out Rocky, and then you go ahead and cut me. Like, that was just cruel!" "I could not win against you in the end," says Vaclav, "but I think Rocky had done a lot, stuff that we did together sometimes, so I wanted him out." "When you told me that it was so that Denine would have to choose between the two of us," says Ashleia, "I believed you." Vaclav nods. "I figured that if Denine won, she would pick me." "Denine said she wanted to vote you out," Ashleia replies. "To get back at Rocky," says Vaclav. "Also, so I could win final immunity," Denine replies. "I was afraid Rocky would win it," says Vaclav. "Denine and I were both lying to you; you just believed me." Ashleia exhales harshly. "Yeah, like, I'm done." She returns to her seat. $v["Next to take the stage, Rocky,"] says Vincent. Rocky gets out of his seat and stomps over to the finalists. "I don't want to hear a word out of either of you. Vaclav, you're a coward. You couldn't vote Paula out when we had the numbers, you wasted an idol on KHALL of all people, and every damn tribal council you were a hyperventilating mess." "I had every right to be worried," Vaclav insists. "Nobody else begged quite like you did," says Rocky. "If you were really brave, you wouldn't have waited until the last second before calling Buddy out." "I did not want to lie about something like that." "Well, sucks to be you, I guess!" Rocky snaps. "You sure had no problem lying to Paula." Vaclav tries to give a counterargument, but Rocky shushes him. "Denine, you meanwhile, are a useless bitch. You could not be trusted to make one smart call... all season long. You put us in an alliance with someone with absolutely no loyalty, you tried to flip Rhett when he was acting crazy, and you voted Vaclav when we were supposed to vote Ashleia because it hurt your pride that I was running things all along." "You were absolutely not running things," says Denine, "you just didn't care about the consequences of what you did." "The consequence was that I was ready to slam dunk on all of you tonight," says Rocky. "But now I have to choose between the two clods that screwed up everything for me!" "You're right, you do have to choose," says Vaclav. "Shut up," Rocky barks. "Neither of you deserve to win when I set everything up for you! Graaah!" He marches back to his seat. $v["Paula, close things off. The bar is low,"] says Vincent. Paula gets up from her seat and walks slowly up to the finalists. "Well, hi Vaclav, hi Denine," she says. "I really don't know what to do here. I just want something answered." "Why you were voted out when you offered to flip," says Denine. Paula nods. "That's it. Denine, I want you to know that you make it clear that you are proud of being brutally honest. I feel like sometimes you don't realize when you have crossed over into being honestly brutal." Denine doesn't give a rebuttal. "I only have a question for Vaclav," says Paula, "and my vote depends on how he answers." "Oh, great," says Denine. "Vaclav, from the very beginning, I felt like we had a good relationship," says Paula. "From the beginning, I listened to you and voted off someone I did not think was the best person to target. You seriously saved me when Jackie had the numbers to get rid of me, and if it wasn't for you, I don't think Khall would have flipped." "I thought we had a good relationship, too," says Vaclav. "It really started to fall apart after that, though," Paula continues. "I feel like at the merge, when you told Louie and Denine about voting Khall out, and then you played your idol, it hurt. It was like you didn't trust me anymore. I tried my hardest to win you back, because I felt like we could work very well together. I thought I was doing you a favour by giving you the reins in the next vote, and it was crushing to see you write my name down." "It was really hard to do that, because I do see you as a friend," says Vaclav. "In that way, I did still trust you. But I believed that you were giving me control because you wanted to keep your hands clean. I thought there was a catch, so I decided not to take that chance. I'm sorry for hurting you the way I did, Paula, it was only to protect myself against what I thought was there. When you got an entire tribe to change their mind and keep you in the seventh round, I realized just how threatening you could be, and it really scared me. I just... I wanted to win, and I didn't want to put my faith in you if you wanted to do that to me." "Okay, well, thank you," says Paula. "At least I now understand what happened better." $v["Thank you, Paula, and the rest of the jurors as well,"] says Vincent. $v["Now, it's time to vote. Remember, jury, you will be voting FOR the person you want to WIN, either Denine or Vaclav. Paula, don't sit down quite yet; you will be starting us off."] ... Paula writes a name down on her voting paper. "I didn't think I would be doing this, but here we are..." Rhett writes a name down on his voting paper. "This truly is the darkest timeline." Louie writes a name down on his voting paper. "You deserve more credit than you got." Buddy writes a name down on his voting paper. "You both made it difficult, but if I had to choose just one of you..." Candace writes a name down on her voting paper. "Maybe after the game is over, we can make up for the missed opportunities." Rocky scribbles a name down on his voting paper. "This isn't a compliment, you're just not quite as sucky." Ashleia gently writes a name in cursive on her voting paper. "You're definitely not, like, the best winner ever, but I don't believe I'm going to regret voting for you to win anyways." ... $v["For the final time this season, I'll go get the votes,"] says Vincent. He goes to get the voting urn and brings it back to in front of the two finalists. $v["Denine, Vaclav, I have the votes, and the winner of Survivor: Inca Legacy has been decided. I would like to thank both of you, as well as the jury, for an exciting and dramatic season. I know how you all want to know what these votes read, but you will have to wait until we get back to civilization to see the results."] The jurors and finalists all relax slightly in their seats. $v["With that said, until th-"] (colour: yellow)[//CRACK!// **BOOM!**] Vincent glances outside, and notices where a thunderbolt had connected with a tree no further than a few hundred meters from the tribal council building. $v["On second thought,"] says Vincent, $v["we can wait here for a little longer."] [[Reunion<-Read the Reunion]]

''Reunion'' Vincent stands confidently on an auditorium stage, listening to the applause and cheers from the audience as the show footage concludes. $v["Welcome back to civilization, and if you're just tuning in, welcome to the finale of Survivor: Inca Legacy,"] he says once the applause quiets down. $v["I'm Vincent Boucher, your host, and in my hand I have the votes that will determine the winner of this season. Joining us are the finalists, Denine Magro and Václav Beránek, and our jury: Paula, Rhett, Louie, Buddy, Candace, Rocky, and Ashleia."] All of the top nine contestants are in respectable attire. Some are wearing buttoned shirts with jeans or dress pants; others are more formally dressed; Rhett and Ashleia are reusing their already fancy jury outfits. Denine is wearing a black gown and black high heels, with her hair done up in a bun, while freshly shaved Vaclav is wearing a custom-fitted black three-piece suit with a sky-blue necktie. $v["It has been quite some time since our adventure in the Peruvian wilderness,"] says Vincent, $v["and it's made for a fantastic season full of shocking twists, intense interactions, and some truly mind-blowing votes – including, perhaps, this one."] The finalists freeze in their seats out of anticipation. $v["I'm going to read them out now,"] Vincent continues. $v["There are seven votes in this urn, and it takes FOUR to win. For the final time this season... time to read the votes."] A hush falls over the auditorium. $v["First vote... Vaclav."] "Thank you, uh..." Vaclav stutters. "I do not know who that is, sorry!" $v["Denine. That's one vote Vaclav, one vote Denine."] Denine grins, and waves at the jury bench. $v["Vaclav. That's two votes for Vaclav."] Vaclav nervously adjusts his glasses. $v["Vaclav. Three votes for Vaclav."] Behind Vaclav's slightly fogged glasses, his pupils dilate in shock. Denine grips her seat with her hand. $v["Next vote, the winner of Survivor: Inca Legacy... ''Václav Beránek!''] Vaclav's clenched fist comes to his open mouth as he lets it all sink in. Denine places a hand on his shoulder. "You swept it, Vaclav," Denine tells him. "Well done." Vaclav's eyes snap shut, and his whole upper body shakes. "No no no no no no no, don't be a seizure..." Denine's cheerfulness is replaced with panic. "Bože... I did it..." Vaclav whispers to himself, fighting back tears. Denine rushes to give him a tight embrace, trying to stop herself from crying as well. Candace smiles. "So wholesome..." "He really earned it," says Paula. $v["Jury, go ahead and join the finalists,"] says Vincent. All seven of the jurors get up and make their way over to Vaclav and Denine, who stand up and try their best to keep their composure. $v["And we have many of the other players here as well. Go out and join them!"] Vincent calls out. From an archway near the back of the stage, many of the earlier competitors emerge. Jackie, Monty, Jarrett, Saul, Lisa, and Min-Ji all walk over to congratulate the finalists and reunite with the jury members. $v["He played with his cards close to his chest, and always kept his opposition guessing. He used his shortcomings to distract from his true intentions, and in the end, he won the respect of the players he outplayed. Vaclav is the winner of Survivor: Inca Legacy!"] The crowd cheers and applauds. $v["This brings an end to another dramatic season, but we are not done yet,"] Vincent announces. $v["Stay tuned for a reunion show where we can tie up some loose ends, and make a special announcement about the next season!"] Voting Results: ''Vaclav – Ashleia, Buddy, Candace, Paula, Rhett, Rocky'' Denine – Louie [[Introduction<-Back to Title Page]]