Survivor - Ash Island

[JustSkipIt]

Note – I know I owe four readers comments from part 18 but I wanted to get this posted. I’ll post your responses later today ok? Sorry.


Title – Survivor – Ash Island

Part 19 – Holiday

Author – JustSkipIt

Pairing – Who do you think? (W/T of course)

Feedback – Oh yes.

Spoilers–None

Ratiing – NC - 17

Disclaimer – I own none of these characters nor do I own Survivor. And believe it or not, I also don’t own any small islands. On the other hand, this island is fictional so let’s say I own it. I’m making no money from this fiction and intend no copyright infringement.

Disclaimer 2 – Please observe that this post has two clearly delineated sections. While the first could be considered a rather sacred time, note that the second part happens clearly after sundown.


“Amen,” the congregation intoned. Slowly everyone stood to begin leaving the temple. Willow turned to her sister, kissing her on the cheek and wishing her a “Gut Yontiff” before repeating the blessing for her parents.

The family waited for the aisles to clear out before helping Ira to his feet and allowing him to start moving slowly toward the back of the sanctuary. While his convalescence was going well, he tired easily and needed to do significant work to regain his former level of health.

It seemed that in addition to enjoying the opportunity for celebration the Jewish New Year always afforded, they had quite a bit additional to be thankful for. Unlike recent years, Kelli and Willow had both found the opportunity to come home for the High Holidays. Willow, in fact, was staying through Yom Kippur. She needed to meet with some clients in Raleigh and Joan was feeding Gato so she would be there then entire ten days. Kelli’s fiancé would be joining them when she returned for Yom Kippur although he hadn’t been able to make it for Rosh Hashanah.

They were greeted by quite bright sunshine as they left the building. Willow and Kelli instantly reached for their sunglasses. “Why don’t I go get the car,” Kelli suggested. Willow volunteered to go with her sister.

Just as Kelli clicked the button to unlock the doors on Ira’s sedan, they heard a familiar voice: “Willow, Kelli, darlings.”

“Gut Yontiff, Ms. Stein,” Willow and Kelli both said warmly as they hugged their former Sunday School teacher.

“I’ve been hearing good things about both of you girls,” Ms. Stein commented.

“Thank you,” Kelli said.

“Your mother told me you’re engaged,” Ms. Stein said, “Mazel Tov.”

“Thank you,” Kelli said.

“And what about you, Willow-ski? Anyone special for you or are you still working so hard to move through school at lightning speed?”

Willow blushed a little at the use of her childhood nickname. “Yes, Ms. Stein,” Willow explained not sure how much detail she should go into, “I have been seeing someone for a few months.”

“Oh,” Ms. Stein said as if suddenly remembering a piece of juicy gossip, “aren’t you on that television show with the stranded people? Did you meet your young man there?”

Willow smiled as of course Ms. Stein wasn’t watching the show or she’d know that Willow wasn’t doing anything to meet any young men. “Yes and no, Ma’am,” Willow explained, “I did meet someone on the show but it’s not a young man. Her name is Tara and she’s another participant on the show.”

“Oh,” Ms. Stein said with realization, “I see. Well how wonderful for both of you.” She pointed across the lot to where Ira and Sheila were standing on the steps waiting for the car. “I see that your parents are waiting for you but please if you will be here for long, come visit me. I’d love to catch up with you.” She kissed both girls on the cheeks again wishing them a Happy New Year and asking them to pass her wishes for a healthy happy year on to their parents.

After helping Ira into the front seat Shelia and Willow took their places and Kelli pulled away from the temple. “I saw you visiting with Ms. Stein,” Shelia commented.

“She passed along her good wishes,” Kelli said.

“Of course,” Sheila said, “she asks about both of you frequently.”

“Not frequently enough, apparently,” Kelli said teasingly.

“I think I’ll go visit with her this week if she’s free,” Willow said.

“I’m sure she’ll enjoy that,” Sheila commented.

“Here we are,” Kelli announced as she pulled into the driveway.

Once inside, the girls joined their mother in the kitchen to serve dinner as Ira relaxed for a few minutes in his study. A few minutes later they all sat down together over their holiday meal. Ira led the table in the recitation of the Barukh over the wine and bread and then they began enjoying their meal, starting with apples dipped in honey to invite a sweet coming year.

Having already agreed that the family would not return to temple for the second afternoon of services, but would instead take the opportunity to relax, they were also settling into a much more relaxed atmosphere. “So Willow,” Ira said, “I was surprised near the end of last Thursday’s episode to see you kiss Tara.”

“Why were you surprised, Dad?” Willow asked. “You know that Tara and I are dating.”

“Oh,” Ira explained, “that didn’t surprise me. What surprised me was that the kiss was on screen. That they showed it.”

“Me too,” Kelli said, “I kind of expected them to just skip over the entire story.”

“Well they can’t do that,” Sheila added, “it would figure into everyone’s strategy if they think that Willow and Tara are united. It kind of interferes with Tara’s strategy—her Faith and Kendra alliance.”

Willow smiled at her family and started giggling. “What are you laughing about?” Kelli asked.

“I just never thought I’d be sitting at the High Holiday dinner listening to my family discussing Survivor,” Willow explained, “I mean this is a family that took family trips to the Smithsonian. When our friends were reading Seventeen and Tiger Beat, we were reading National Geographic and Scientific American.”

“No Seventeen or Tiger Beat,” Kelli teased, “now we know what happened with you. Didn’t you know that boy from Dawsons creek guy is just a babe.”

“I must have missed that issue,” Willow deadpanned.

“Back to Faith and Kendra and Tara,” Shelia said, “I’m really not trusting that Faith. I think she’s using everyone to win the money.”

“Mom,” Willow said with amusement in her voice, “everyone wants to win the money.”

“I think what your mother is saying,” Ira said, “is that Faith, Kendra, and Tara have an alliance for the entire game. Won’t the other two girls start to doubt Tara when they see the way you two girls are fooling around?”

“Dad!” Willow exclaimed.

“I don’t mean that type of fooling around,” Ira clarified, “I mean they all see how the two of you are acting. An alliance of two can be a very strong alliance you know.”

“Did you all go to Survivor show viewer training while I was gone or something?” Willow said with complete puzzlement.

“We watched the first four seasons when I was laid up,” Ira announced with something akin to pride.

“And I’ve been catching up on the highlights since you left for the Island,” Kelli added.

“I’m in the Twilight Zone,” Willow mused.

“How is Tara?” Ira said, hoping to change the subject to something slightly lighter.

“She’s well,” Willow answered, “she came to visit me last weekend and we saw Cirque du Solei.”

“She has a child, right?” Sheila asked.

“A six-year old daughter,” Willow explained. “Ariel was with her father last weekend.”

“So Tara and her ex-husband get along well?” Ira led.

“Oh, Kent’s a real mench and he and Tara get along very well,” Willow said. “But um… he’s not her ex-husband exactly.”

“Oh,” Sheila said scrunching her eyebrows up slightly. “Well that’s ok. I mean you say that he’s a good man. Have you met Ariel?”

“Oh yes,” Willow said excitedly, “she’s a really awesome kid. I mean 6-years old and reads and writes. Incredibly honest and articulate too.” Willow smiled at the memory. “Every week she gets on the phone to tell me what she thought about the episode and if she liked what I did that week.”

“Did she like what you did this week?” Kelli teased.

“Oh yeah,” Willow answered, “she was thrilled about it. She says, ‘I like you because you make my mommy smile and you act like a kid too.’”

“She’s got you pegged,” Sheila said.

“Do you…,” Ira started, “do you see this relationship going somewhere?”

“Worried I’ll be an old maid?” Willow teased.

“No, bubbeleh,” Ira said, “but I like seeing you this happy. I’ve never seen you as happy as you’ve been since you got home.”

“I am,” Willow smiled.

“When do you think we might have a chance to meet Tara?” Sheila asked.

“Well,” Willow said, “I was thinking that maybe she and Ariel could come to Kelli’s wedding if you don’t all meet them before that.”

“If we don’t meet…,” Kelli started. “Hey! You made the final four broadcast.”

“I can neither confirm nor deny that,” Willow said playfully.

“Anyway,” Kelli said, “I’m sure she’d like to see you in your turquoise bridesmaid dress.”

“Turquoise?” Willow repeated starting to turn a little that color.

“Just teasing,” Kelli said victoriously.

“Now about the wedding,” Sheila started. After the meal was finished the family retired to the living room, study, or porch to relax and enjoy their holiday. After sundown, Willow pulled out her laptop to do some work.

Her phone rang a little after 8:30. “Hi, baby,” she said quietly.

“Hi,” Tara said, “is it Gut Yontiff?”

“Close enough,” Willow laughed, “thank you. ‘L'shanah tovah’ would be correct also.”

“Has it been a good holiday?” Tara asked.

“Quite good,” Willow explained. “I think the year has really given us an appreciation for everything we have. Plus which this is the first year in quite a while that we’ve all been together for both days.”

“So your father is feeling well?”

“Quite,” Willow explained, “he’s taking it a little easier than I’ve ever seen but he’s getting around.”

“That’s wonderful,” Tara said. “I miss you,” she suddenly said.

“I miss you too, Love,” Willow told her. “Is everything ok?”

“Oh,” Tara explained, “everything’s fine. I just wish you were here with me. I’ve been thinking about you and how fortunate I am. I guess I’m r-reviewing the year too.”

“It’s been the most incredible year of my life,” Willow told her, “but it’s just the first of many years I wish to spend with you.”

“Sweet talker,” Tara gushed.

“How’s Ariel?” Willow asked.

“She’s wonderful,” Tara said, “she said to tell you happy New Year and she thinks it’s cool that your New Year starts when the s-school one does. She says that sounds easy to remember.”

“God,” Willow said, “that’s just so adorable.”

“Hey, baby,” Willow said, “do you think you’d like to be my date for Kelli’s wedding? Everyone is pretty eager to meet you and Ariel.”

“I’d love to,” Tara told her laughingly, “but didn’t you say that they may meet me earlier than that?”

Willow laughed back. “Actually I did.”

“You’re so wonderful,” Tara mused. “What are you doing tomorrow, baby?”

“Well,” Willow said, “I need to make some calls over the next few days; remember, I was telling you about the redemption thing? Also, Kelli and I ran into Ms. Stein after services today so I thought I’d go visit her.”

“Your Sunday School teacher?” Tara asked. “The woman who sat with you when your parents and Kelli were at your Grandmother’s funeral and who gave you the book about the internal combustion engine?”

Willow smiled at the memory. “Yes. Apparently she didn’t know that the book would affect me so,” she teased, “she asked about my young man.”

“Oh yeah, baby,” Tara teased back, “you’re so large with the butch.”

Willow giggled back. “Are you ready for bed?”

“Yep,” Tara said, “I’m in bed right now. Wishing you were here with me.”

"Really?" Willow said huskily, "what if I were there?"

"W-what?" Tara stuttered.

"If I were there," Willow repeated, "what would you be doing?" When she was greeted with silence she started on her own. "I'll tell you what I'd be doing. I know how you love it when I kiss your neck."

"Oh, I do," Tara agreed.

"You always make that incredible moaning sound when I start softly kissing your pulse point," Willow described in a whisper, "and when I suck it... Mmm. And your skin with that vanilla-Tara scent."

"I like your scent better," Tara whispered, "the way you get so wet... I love to feel your juices on my fingertips ... or my lips..." Hearing the redhead moan she asked, "Are you wet for me now, baby?"

"Oh yeah," Willow moaned as she ran her fingertips along her lips. "I'm running my fingertips along my lips and imagining how you feel right now."

"Mmm," Tara whimpered, "Wet, baby. .So wet for you. Oh God. And my clit is so swolen."

"Touch it for me," Willow told her lover as she did the same.

"Mmm, Oh ... baby... your touch... I need you inside," Tara gave a strangled groan.

"Oh yes," Willow breathed, "I'm inside you now... Two fingers... So soft. So wet. That's it, baby. Oh God...," she thrust inside of her own warm channel, her thumb flicking over her clit, imagining Tara's hand on her.

"That's it," Tara moaned, "a little... Oh God!" As she heard Tara's scream, Willow felt her own climax over taking her. She turned her face to the pillow quickly to muffle her own noises.

"Happy New Year," Willow muttered weakly as she caught her breath after a few minutes.

"Oh, God," Tara answered quietly, "that's for sure." She chuckled before whispering, "I can't believe what you do to me, Willow."

"I love you," Willow told her lover.

"Mmm," Tara agreed sleepily, "I love you too but now I'm all sleepy."

"Go to sleep, Love," Willow told her, "I'll talk to you tomorrow."

"Ok," Tara said, "Good luck with your call to Buffy."

"Thanks," Willow told her before hanging up the phone and setting her computer aside to sleep while thoughts of Tara were still fresh in her mind.

[watty]

Hi hi, it's the new and improved watson, but you can still use HW, hee.

Not being Jewish, the significance of the High Holidays and the greetings kind of went over my head. But what I did get was, how important it was for the Rosenbergs that they spent the holidays together, how Willow wants to (re?)-discover her faith and how different your Sheila & Ira are from canon. I must say I prefer this version of the Rosenbergs!

This totally cracked me up

Did you all go to Survivor show viewer training while I was gone or something?”

and

“I’m in the Twilight Zone,”

The family certainly did their homework, again it shows how much they love Willow, she's very lucky. And by extension Tara and Ariel too, I'm sure they'll love them just like family, when they finally meet.

Yep, I read the dicslaimers and A/Ns before each chapter, partly because I myself put notes there on my fics, and I noticed the rating again. Then you had Willow spending the holidays with her folks and I was thinking, oookayyy how are we doing to get to the smut cos Tara's not in Raleigh? Tara shows up at her doorstep, no, she can't leave Ariel at home 2 weekends running! Of course, it was phone sex . I love it when they were generally chatting and then Tara suddenly said she missed Willow and I can totally hear her voice drop an octave when she said that. I like your way of writing smut, you avoid detailed how-to's like: "and this finger goes there, and she pumped her lover 6 times, and she squeezed her left breast with her right hand while her left hand did something else", you write it simpler nowadays, shorter, but equally sweet and still very hot.

Their relationship post-show is developing very nicely. If you bring a SO to a family wedding, it means it's serious. Well, I didn't bring my gf to my sister's wedding, but that's because I was living in country A, gf was in country B and sis in country C, and of course familes who are still in the dark! Anyway, stop with the digression, what I'm trying to say is, they're moving towards the point where they're gonna have to at least raise the "living in different cities" issue. Columbus and Atlanta are sufficiently far away from each other to warrant that discussion eventually. Even though on the face of it, Willow is more mobile than Tara, it's unfair to make that assumption until they sit down and talk about it without distractions. I'm sure you'll address it, perhaps I'm jumping the gun.

And a tiny cliffhanger. About Willow calling Buffy, is she talking about Buffy or Mrs Stein:

I need to make some calls over the next few days; remember, I was telling you about the redemption thing?

And why does Tara feel the need to wish Willow good luck in calling Buffy? Am I jumping the gun again ?

Anyway, still lovin' this

[stillrunning]

Those last couple of updates that I just caught up on were awesome! I'm glad to see that Mac got sent home...I liked him ALMOST as much as I liked Richard. And that little sneaky Willow kiss in the woods was just soooo cute! Made me all happy:) Can't wait for more!

[littlecrazy80]

Great update!!!
I love the Rosenbergs in your story. It seems that it means a lot to them, especially Willow, that the whole family is together for their Jewish holidays. And their interest in Survivor and Tara is great.

*lil´c*

[cperrins78]

Awesome update. I loved the phone sex scene. It got me turned on big time.

[watersong84]

Hey!

I don't exactly know why I've never left feedback for this story before... sorry about that. I actually have been absolutely LOVING it!

I must pay due compliments to you on your successful use of time in this fic. I love the concept of having the outcome of the show be a total mystery while also being able to tell the story of what happens after the show without leaving anything out and without spoiling the ending. You have done a wonderful job with it.

I also absolutely loved this update. Willow's parents actually being supportive - Yay! I also somehow have survived 18 years of being Jewish and thinking that it was "Good Yontiff" instead of "Gut Yontiff". I guess you learn something new every day!

Update soon!

[JustSkipIt]

First the comments I owe from part 18:
irishgrl3 – Glad you liked. Everyone liked the sweet kiss which means I must have done something right. Yes, Xander’s a moron.

daiailun – You can respond to whatever you would like. I know a lot of people really hate Survivor which is fine. Like I said, I find it a pretty fascinating thing. You want to understand human psychology and sociology? Give 16 people a machete and the chance to win $1,000,000.

Except it seems he’s on a panel or jury or something that might factor into the final outcome?

The last 7 people not in the final 2 (9-3) are the “jury.” They hang out at a resort and come watch the tribal councils. At the final tribal council they can make a speech or ask a question of the final 2 (“why do you deserve to win?”) and then they vote. They decide who actually wins the $.

I appreciate your observations about Joan and Willow and their dialog. Yes, I find it very easy to write them and it does seem to just flow. I kind of regret that I don’t have more for Joan to do in this fic than she does but I find her pretty fun and amusing. In a way I think of her much like Eliza and Michelle in Paths. They are friends who are supportive and know their W/T very well.

Glad you liked the Mason Dixon line. You are right: Tara is quite self-assured and confident even though she is well aware of Willow’s womanizing ways. I think that she understands that Willow was compensating for her inherent geekiness and not fitting in for all this time and that the redhead is completely head-over-heels for her.

I think that you are right that there is a huge contrast between the two Willows. The one on the island is busy playing a game and doesn’t know if there is a future for her and Tara. I think on the island, Willow is very much in the pursuer position while at home, they are much more equal. The Tara on the island, on the other hand, is very split. She is playing a much more intense game than is Willow and while she is interested in Willow, she doesn’t want to sacrifice her game or get played by the redhead. By contrast, at home both women are able to dedicate their energy to their relationship and being genuine with each other. The pressure of the game is over.

You are very right about about the threats the girls will face on the island. As people frequently point out: an alliance of 2 is a strong alliance so the question is not will the T/K/F alliance hold up but will F/K believe that it will?

If I were on the island, I certainly wouldn’t want to get rid of the brains.

Actually on the island, you would want to get rid of her as soon as merge happens because once merge happens, it becomes an individual competition. You want to get rid of everyone stronger or smarter than yourself.

There is one thing I didn’t get in the most recent chapter. It’s when Willow thought aloud, "Maybe when people win the rewar…," I didn’t understand the meaning and why Willow would have been embarrassed and felt the need to apologise to Tara?

Once the teams merge, the rewards become more elaborate. Frequently there is an overnight trip for 2-4 people. If anyone was going to “make use of the condoms” that would be when it happens. I think she was embarrassed that she had thought of it and didn’t want Tara to think that she was implying that Tara would sleep with her on a reward.

Thanks for all your great feedback.

blue eyed girl – Thanks so much and welcome. Giving the little clues about what happened on the island is one of the most fun parts of writing this story. It’s astounding to me how good readers are at figuring out so much.

As many readers have pointed out the T/K/F alliance may be in trouble and it will be interesting to see how that plays out.

Good guesses on final four/two.

ringwaldoeuvre – Thanks for the new-board-assisted clarification. Lol about the spoilery venting. Thanks.

[Patches]

Okay, Garner’s post got to me. I’ve meant to leave feedback for *ages.* Right, Chapter 19, no time like the present… So, here goes…please allow me to join the ranks in saying, you are doing a terrific job with this story! I’m not a fan of Survivor by any stretch, so you had a bit of a tough sell right off the bat hooking me into the story. However, you’re such a strong writer, the context of the story really didn’t matter—at first.

I guess what grabbed me off the top was the way you wrote the characters; each so very true to “the good old days.” I suppose there’s complicity on the reader’s part when one sees a W/T fic, that relationships are presumed to pre-exist; accustomed as we are to the character inter-relationships, them not knowing each other at the beginning actually brought me into your story setting. I wanted to know how you were going to set everything up and play out the game. The movement of the characters from the Buffyverse into Surviorland was really well done. The ‘real life’ backgrounds for the characters made me laugh; it’s so easy to picture them in your designated professions.

The inclusion of interstitial, post-Survivor material was genius; two stories in one. Looks like quite a challenge to move the “present-day” plot forward without revealing too much of the Ash Island story. You’ve crafted both settings well. Dialogue is spot on, and the descriptions of the game challenges are excellent. I like that you maintain one POV and a consistent tense for the Survivor episodes (present) while writing the off-Island W/T past tense. Nifty trick, it’s great to see it used to good effect. So many others have commented on “game strategy” to this point; I’ll just add a “ya, what they said!” – Intriguing set up and execution.

From a writer’s perspective, though, I think you’re painting yourself into the “proverbial” corner. There’s one little ‘tell’ in this past update that might spoil a bit of the Survivor plot, though I’m still torn. Revealing the kiss between Willow and Tara on the Island might have created a problem. The obvious teaming up of Willow and Tara on the show gives you some story credibility or at least logistical difficulty. The other “players,” seeing the attraction and bond between the two, are pretty likely to think – split them up and get rid of at least one of them. As soon as anyone catches wind of a relationship/attraction brewing, it’s only logical to assume W/T going into the final ‘round’ is too dangerous an alliance – it will always be “two” against one, in every situation. You have a dilemma brewing on how to keep the characters together long enough on the “show” to justify the “post-show” relationship you’ve already written. You’ve done well to hide the Buffy/Joyce relationship, and I think the same principle applies to W/T. This is compounded by the whole W/T dynamic; it’s a cutthroat game, but can you have Willow or Tara betray the other in the game for the sake of credibility? Unfortunately, because it is W/T, do you really have that luxury (betrayal/back-stabbing), given you’ve not been able to deal with it in the sub-plot?

I guess I’ve mentioned this because on numerous occasions you’ve indicated how important the craft of writing is to you. It’s easy to sacrifice the art of writing for the sake of enjoyable story telling. I believe you’re aiming for a good balance of both. These are just my thoughts as a neophyte writer, not a criticism of your work, btw. I just see a story credibility trap building. You may require the reader to really have to bend in order to suspend disbelief if W/T continue making such overt overatures in the game.

At any rate, I’ve really enjoyed reading so far, and look forward to the rest of the story. Next time, more content, less pseudo-structural analysis.

Cheers!!
Patches

[blue eyed girl]

Another great update.

Like other readers the whole good luck talking to Buffy and redemption comments have me thinking that Willow double crossed Buffy on the island. Of course you could have put them in there to purposely misdirect us.

The two comments about how the Rosenbergs might meet Tara earlier than the wedding made me think that perhaps Tara is going to go visit WIllow in Raleigh next week. Since it seems that Tara and Kent switch off having Ariel every week that would mean Kent would have her next week so Tara would be able to go. Plus if she doesn't that would mean it would still be another week before they get to see each other again. But this is just my wishful thinking.

[cooper]

JustSkipIt/Debra

This is one of my first posts after years of lurking and I knew one of my responses had to be to your story. I have read and loved every story of yours that I have read. I too enjoy the stories the most that explore the meeting of W/T and the building of their relationship.

Your Survivor is something I anticipate reading because it is not only exploring W/T meeting and becoming involved once, it has it twice. What I love the most is I feel that W/T are getting a chance to fall in love twice and we the readers learn more about each character every update which is not always done in stories.

cooper

[onehotone]

woo hooo!.. i love this fic...

keep it commin!


-Kelsey

[onelesstraveled]

Hi there. First of all, kudos for picking up on my Frost reference. I used to love that poem when I was a tiny bumbling kid... I still do, and still am (tiny and bumbling I mean). I've actually been following your stories, Paths Diverged Divulged and also Season 3 Y'all, from the get-go, and have enjoyed both tremendously (shows you how long I've been lurking ) I owe you a big thank you from that time long ago.

Speaking of wonderful stories, loved the previous update. It's nice to learn more about the Rosenbergs and find them loving and supportive of Willow. I wish my family would discuss Survivor around the dinner table I'm sure Tara would win over the Rosenbergs easily when they finally meet, seeing she already got most of the job done by making Willow as happy as she's ever been.

About the redemption call, I have a feeling it's to Buffy because otherwise Tara wouldn't have said good luck to Willow. Maybe Willow pulled a move on Buffy on the island and feels the need to talk things out?

And the phone sex? Totally HOT!

Very much looking forward to see how things will progress on and off the island, oh the possibilites... Keep the updates comin'!

[JustSkipIt]

Watson – Less hidden now huh? I think that for most Jews, these are the most important holidays to spend together. I do like the idea of an observant Willow and an observant family for her. Rewriting canon: sure but why not? It’s all AU! Anyway…

Yes, the family has been quite funny with their Survivor quiz training. But they support their daughter and that’s what’s important.

I’m glad you enjoyed the smut. It was something I’ve never written before and quite honestly, something I usually skip when reading but it doesn’t really turn me on. But at the same time, I’m pretty bored of writing smut. As you say, the how-to-maunal, do this, then do that gets old. I’ve done that and lots of it and probably too much. So I wanted to try something different. I also wanted to express through that scene the connection that Tara and Willow feel. As I wrote to Magrat in response to Hangetsu, I think that is something that takes an enormous amount of trust between two people.

You’re 100% right about the implications of bringing a date to a wedding/christening/bat-mitzvah, etc. It means commitment and at least that you are willing to be bothered by a hundred relatives wanting to know when you are next blah blah blah. You’re not jumping any guns and it is definitely a conversation to happen.

I’m not sure it’s a cliffhanger but the period between Rosh Hashanna and Yom Kippur is a period of introspection. It is traditional/compelling to examine your life and make amends or seek redemption for your past year as well as committing to certain of charity. So yes, I definitely dropped in the Buffy indication intentionally.

stillrunning – I’m glad you liked them so much. Yep, Mac is no more which really had to happen. He had no alliances and was too strong. I don’t think he really understood how to play the game in the way that say Faith and Buffy understand it. Glad you liked the sneaky kiss.

littlecrazy80 – Yes, I like these Rosenbergs much better too. And I think that it is quite important to them that they are together. And Ira’s scare makes everything seem quite a bit more precious.

Irene73 – Hola yourself. That’s so cute! Your first note. No idea what he is saying but that’s just so darn cute.

You should post a note in the “the art of leaving feedback” thread since it comes so easily to you. At the same time, while perhaps not negative, I think you should definitely feel free to write constructive criticism. Cool on your first fic. I haven’t read it because I just find the prospect of 13 one-offs so overwhelming. But perhaps I’ll get there.

and for me to just say something negative, even if it is constructive criticism, well it's like complaing about the president when you didn't vote.

I’d say it’s more like complaining TO the president if there is a chance (which there isn’t) that he will actually listen and go, “Gee I never really thought about the bill of rights. So you’re saying that these rights should belong to everyone? Cool.”

Glad you liked the phone conversation. As I said before, I’d never written one before so I wanted to try it.

I think there are various assumptions you can make regarding W/B and you can choose: W double-crossed Buffy; Willow didn’t really do anything that bad but she feels guilty nonetheless; Buffy’s perception is that Willow did her wrong but Willow accepts no wrongdoing. In any case, it would be appropriate to seek resolution at this time.

Still not guessing on F4? Ok, I’m ok with that. Oh, Katra would be a good one. And you can almost get it by using letters from the existing names (except the R). Did you just ask if I remember what a Katra is? Gee, only the magical doohickey from my 2nd favorite episode! Love that ep! I’ve probably watched it 25 times?

I’ve had a very hard work week so I’ve done no writing but the weekend looks pretty clear so you’ll get an update sometime soon. Thanks.

cperrins78 – Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

watersong84 – Hey there. I’m not sure whether I’ve seen feedback from you before but I’ve seen your writing. Welcome. Glad you love the story.

I’m glad that the time play is working so well. What’s truly confusing is that I have written about 6 or 8 parts ahead of what I have posted so I’m basically working with 4 times: The reader’s Island time, the reader’s home time, my writing Island time, and my writing home time. Then there are flash backs which even further muddy it. What’s interesting is that months ago I actually considered writing and posting a vignette type story (yes, smut) that did not necessarily flow chronologically. I though it would be a very interesting exercise but never got around to it.

Tee hee about Good Yontiff. I’d say that’s probably an acceptable interpretation anyway. Just think, you can call your folks and make them proud. Sniff… Thanks.

Patches – Wow! No freaking kidding. Feedback from Patches? Cool. No time like the present-hey how about “better late than never.” So true. I’m really glad that you were able to get past the entire “Survivor” setting thing. I think that has been one of my biggest barriers in this story: getting people to look past Survivor and read the story. It seems that most are succeeding and then liking the story. Of course I have a biased sample since I’m thinking of those who then write feedback. I guess those who start it, go “hate it” (picture the Wayans brothers) and never open it again don’t say anything.

I’m glad you like the characterizations. I think this is the first true AU I’ve written and it’s a struggle for me. I enjoy reading AU fic but feel so skeptical about “Tara--hot powerful cop” or Willow—renowned ballerina.” When I read those I just look at it like a piece of fic. So I was pretty nervous about this. I’m glad you think I’m reasonably true to the characters.

The inclusion of interstitial, post-Survivor material was genius; two stories in one.

Thank you so much. And you used the word interstitial which is pretty impressive. I had no idea how much of a challenge it would be to maintain the secrecy surrounding the outcome on the Island in the present day story. Seriously, it’s not that conceivable that these characters would never even discuss with each other what happened, who won, who lost, who may win, etc. But I have to just not include it as if they are being very sly with each other and drop hints.

I like that you maintain one POV and a consistent tense for the Survivor episodes (present) while writing the off-Island W/T past tense. Nifty trick, it’s great to see it used to good effect.

I’m glad to have it notice but I’m not sure it’s a trick per se. When I was studying literature and criticism, they said that you always write about literature (or film, art, whatever) in present tense because the action is happening as you are reading or describing it. I figured that describing the events on a TV show is the same. As for the current parts, I usually only write those in present tense when using first person. Otherwise, I tend to write fiction in past tense.

You make some really excellent points in your paragraph on game strategy/believability. While I think that the W/T relationship on the island can been seen as a threat to some, there are ways that it can work for them too. For Willow, she may hope to be absorbed into the F/K/T alliance as an additional F4 member. It’s conceivable to those on the island that she is pursuing Tara as part of the game which may gain their grudging respect. It’s also conceivable that they will believe the alternative: that she’s so focused on Tara that she isn’t paying enough attention to the game and will be easy pickings. Also, that if #2 is true she will be easily led by Tara and a free vote for as long as she’s needed.

As far as Tara’s strategy. I think she still has a chance (duh, said as if I don’t know the outcome but having a conversation here). I think that her relationship/flirtation with Willow can be seen as a power move. Keep in mind that she is not particularly out. There’s no evidence that F/K know that Tara is a lesbian. In fact, they know that she has an illegitimate child which would kind of lead to the heterosexual conclusion. If so, they may think that she’s playing a smart game to use Willow for her vote and cut her loose later.

Yes, an alliance of two is a strong alliance but so far, I don’t think that F/K have any reason to doubt Tara’s commitment to their game. Keep in mind that everyone on the island is playing their own game and they may be looking for ways to work the W/T dynamic into their own scheme.

Ok, that was a very long response to your feedback. I truly do appreciate your thorough thoughts on the subject and you are right: writing is very important to me. I hope that eventually I’m able to use this story to achieve both an amusing and a credible conclusion. Thanks so much. Seriously, I can’t even say what this type of feedback means to me.

blue eyed girl – You may want to see some of my responses above regarding Willow’s intentions re: Buffy. I don’t want to give too much away and as you say, could be a double-cross completely. Good guesses about Tara’s visit to Raleigh but on the other hand, could totally be misdirection and I’m not above saying that.

cooper – Welcome to writing feedback!!!!! Lurking for years? Wow. I only made it about 6 months before I just had to start writing and leaving feedback. You must have a very touch tongue if you bite it so much. (or very tender, not sure which).

I agree with you about enjoying the meeting and falling in love stories and I guess in a way you are right: this has that twice. Thanks for posting here.

onehotone – Thanks so much.

onelesstraveled – Thanks so much. I’m glad you like both those stories. I’d say that Paths is the one that I’m most proud of still. Yes, the Rosenbergs will love Tara because they’re supportive people and she is nice and makes Willow happy.

Thanks so much.

[Bozwell]

ok, so i HATE reality shows. im just not a reality tv person.

i have however, read all your other fics and thought they were just freaking fantastic so i figured, whatever, it cant be bad cuz JustSkipIt is the author and its got w/t so i went on ahead and read it.

after reading i realized that if they would put all the buffy people on reality tv i would soooo be there. this is just a fantastic spin on survivor. the way you go into deatil about the challanges is just great. i can actually picture it like as if it was on tv.

its also really neat to have the " present " going on at the same time. its the first time ive read something like this and it's just really creative and awesome.

dude, if i could write even half as good as you do, id be estatic. bravo, really.

looking forward to seeing whose in the final 4.

Boz

[Artemis]

Ah... They really get their money's worth out of a phone call. I found it really sweet how they felt physically connected (it seemed to me) just by their voices. And, y'know, maybe a bit hot too

Willow's family came across as very loving. I know zip about the religious connotations of the time (dated a Jewish girl once, but her family didn't really practice it so's you'd notice), but the familiarity and warmth came across just fine. Much better than the Sunnydale version - I love them teasing Willow about the show

And the mention of Buffy, does this suggest that Willow and Buffy are maybe going to become a bit estranged on the show, such that Willow feels like she needs good luck in her effort at 'redemption'? Maybe she did indeed side with Tara and her alliance, rather than Buffy and Joyce, and Buffy felt betrayed by that. Obviously it's a game, and Buffy's playing it too, but she is somewhat the kind of person to take something like that to heart and brood about it. I hope she and Willow can get some perspective and get along, they were good friends and a good team for the episodes they were together.

[justin]

That was a great update

I like the interaction that Willow has with her family. Especially when they were discussing strategies for survivor

[tarawhipped]

I'm glad I reread this before commenting, Debra, cause the first time around I missed the whole "redemption" remark and the implications of the phone call to Buffy. Combined with the "Final 4" speculation of Willow's family, it certainly seems as though Willow changed alliances. Of course, I'm not convinced you aren't just being sneaky in order to throw us all for a loop later. Either way, the suspense is wonderful.

One of the things I like best about this fic is how you show Willow and Tara living their separate lives, but increasingly including the other (whether it's soccer games, weddings or really sexy bedtime calls ). I also enjoyed the banter between Willow and her family. I got the impression that their sudden interest in and knowledge of Survivor would be akin to my casually supportive parents suddenly founding a PFLAG group.

-Cameron

[irishgrl3]

I really like the two separate things going on in this chapter. First the Spirital with what appears to be a close family for Willow. They all seem so caring of each other, a nice change from the BTVS series and a lot of fiction out there that depicts Willow's familly as absent. It's great that you've written them that way. Their discussions of the Survivor Show and especially of her realtionship with Tara were sweet.

Willow inviting Tara to her sister's wedding and then the comment about meeting her family prior has me curious as to whether Tara is going for a visit or it has something to do with the Show. Hmmm.... Great ending with the phone celebration of the Jewish New Year "together". Hee-hee
-anna

[JustSkipIt]

Bozwell – Well, welcome! Great to see you and thanks for giving the story a chance. I’m lol about your idea that if Buffy people were on Survivor, it would be great. Did you know that they were working on a celebrity version? Apparently they were having a hard time with scheduling. I would imagine that the celebrities probably “needed” more support than “reality” people too. I think that would be seriously funny to watch though.

Thanks for the thoughts about the parallel stories. Like I’ve said before, I thought it up just sort of “what if?” and never looked back . Thanks for everything.

Any guesses on F4?

Artemis – Hey Chris. First, let me apologize for not getting caught up on SB lately. Sorry for that.

They really get their money's worth out of a phone call.

Especially since their minutes are free. Ha ha. I can definitely see the sweet aspect of it and that’s a big part of what I was looking for. Like I’ve said earlier, I have never written that before (hard to imagine huh?) and personally didn’t find it a turn on but I did think it was very nice and connecting.

I think that the important thing to note about their Jewishness is definitely the family togetherness. I made a point about the importance of Willow and Kelli both being there for the holiday and that Kelli’s fiancé was even going to be there for Yom Kippur. Definitely better than the Sunnydale version.

Sorry to say, I’m not explaining the W/B details but it will all come out.

I hope she and Willow can get some perspective and get along, they were good friends and a good team for the episodes they were together.

As opposed to what episodes? Confused by that statement but of course they are great. They are wonderful and I always love the amount of love they have for each other. While I’m obviously not a B/W shipper, sometimes when I read those stories, I go, “ok, I get how this person thinks that.” They have a wonderful friendship.

Justin – Hey there. Thanks so much. I’m glad you liked the family part and the teasing about Survivor. They are all into it. Thanks.

tarawhipped – Hey Cam,
Like I said, I can neither confirm nor deny that Willow wronged Buffy. Actually the holiday instructs observers to seek redemption from those they’ve wronged and even those that feel they have been wronged. Years ago, Dr. Laura posted a completely lame apology in some big paper. She basically said, “I’m sorry if you gay people are offended that I think it’s wrong.” Basically, I think that’s the worst type of apology you can make. I mean to me there’s:

10 Points: “I’m sorry I hurt you.”
8 Points: “I’m sorry you felt hurt.”
3 Points: “I’m sorry if I hurt you.”
1 Point: “I’m sorry if you felt hurt.”
.5 Points: “I’m sorry if you felt hurt but your thighs really do look like two hams when you walk.”
Of course 20 Points is not hurting someone in the first place.

Debra: Queen of Tangents for tonight.

Yes, yes, yes. You have hit it on the head: they have separate lives but are becoming integrated into each other’s life. One thing that no one has specifically commented on is Willow’s comment about Ms. Stein and Tara’s saying, “Oh your Sunday school teacher who sat with you…” To me that is the type of thing that indicates spending enough time with someone to have told them your childhood memories. Lol about your family. Thanks for reading and commenting.

irishgrl3 – I’m glad you like the Spiritual and the secular in this chapter. I liked it but was worried that someone would take offense. Of course I’m Jewish and my family in particular is pretty much “sounds ok” about the entire secular thing. I mean every one of my siblings and cousins lived with their spouses before marriage and no one batted an eye, including my 94 year old grandfather who attended temple every morning until he entered a nursing home this year.

Anyway, yes, the family is wonderfully supportive. Again I think that they always were but in this case, coming after a scare like they’ve had with her father, they are able to focus on what’s important: family and love.

Tee hee: I’m a big tease about their meeting. Lol. Thanks.

[Artemis]

I hope she and Willow can get some perspective and get along, they were good friends and a good team for the episodes they were together.

As opposed to what episodes?

Oops, I meant the episodes of Survivor - those when they were on the same team, before Willow got switched to MFashnek.

[willlovestara]

Wow! I almost missed that update! Such a sweet update, I never really thought of Willow having a sister but you write her so well I do now. I also like how you haven't written Willows parents as cannon cos I didn't like her mum on the show! Will Tara meet them all before Kelli's wedding or before? Thanks for the update, more soon please! Hannah.

[Willow~Rosenberg]

Hi. I don't know if I left you feedback for this before, but I wanted to let you know that I've been reading and enjoying your version of Survivor. I also really like how you've incorporated the real-time activities of their daily lives into this fic. I look forward to the family meeting Tara officially. Should be very interesting, as well as the final four. I'm here waiting patiently for your next update.

[JustSkipIt]

Artemis – Oh. Duh me (is there an emoticon for that?). I get it now.

willlovestara – Glad you caught up but if you hadn’t it would still be here tomorrow… I’m glad everyone is liking Willow’s sister. Not really sure why I wanted to put her in; just for someone who is close to her and isn’t Joan I guess. So she has some more exposure and support. More on meeting later.

Willow~Rosenberg – I don’t think you have left feedback so thanks so much for doing so. I’m glad you’ve read and liked it so much. Like many readers, I vacillate regarding whether the island or real life parts are my favorites. Glad you like both. Any guesses on Final Four?



Title – Survivor – Ash Island

Part 20 – Week 8

Author – JustSkipIt

Pairing – Who do you think? (W/T of course)

Feedback – Oh yes.

Spoilers–None

Ratiing – PG

Disclaimer – I own none of these characters nor do I own Survivor. And believe it or not, I also don’t own any small islands. On the other hand, this island is fictional so let’s say I own it. I’m making no money from this fiction and intend no copyright infringement.

Notes – Thanks to everyone who made suggestions on Tribe/Demon names. The suggestions were fantastic. I went a little different way but at least now you’ll know my favorite episode. Keep those guesses on the F4 coming though…



MFashnek Camp – Day 21
The camera pans over the sights of the island on a gray looking morning. We see trees, downed coconuts, waves reaching the beach, and a shot of the outside of the shelter. Next we see the shelter as the camera pans over the sleeping members of MFashnek. Faith, Kendra, and Robin are starting to stir as are Willow and Tara. It is easy to see that the later two women are snuggled together in their sleep—Tara’s arms wrapped around the redhead.

Confessional Caption – Tara – Medical Receptionist
“This morning when I woke up, my arms were wrapped around Willow’s body. Ok, a-actually we went to sleep like that. I think she’s pretty s-special but that doesn’t change this game. My a-alliance is still with Faith and Kendra. If we can take Willow to the final four, then we will but the three of us are the key. “

Next we see the group sitting around the fire drinking their dwindling coffee and eating plantains. “I wonder when merge will happen,” Kendra starts.

“Probably soon,” Robin guesses. “Either that or they have a big surprise planned for us.”

“Right now,” Faith reminds everyone, “we’re five to their three. Even if merge isn’t in the next few days and we have to go to tribal council, we’ll be four to three.” Everyone nods their heads although they all look uneasy with the possibility that they will have to go to tribal council again. Faith looks around the group before vowing, “I’ll never vote against someone in this circle if there’s anyone else to vote against.”

They look at her apparently processing her strongly worded vow before Tara agrees. “M-m-m…,” she trails off and sticks her right hand into the center of the circle. Faith smiles and puts hers on top of the blonde’s. She’s followed by Kendra, Robin, and Willow. “MFashnek to the end,” Kendra adds on.

Confessional Caption – Faith – Personal Trainer
“Hey, whatever these girls—I mean Tara and Willow-- want to do is fine with me. We’ve been on this island 21 days and it will be 18 more for whoever makes it to the end. If you want to find someone to cuddle up with, share some affection, get you some, whatever, I say why not.” She thinks for a second before explaining in a low voice, “On the other hand, one hint that Tara’s switching alliances, breaking her damn word, and I’ll cut her loose even before the kid.”

Akathla Camp – Day 21
“Three weeks,” Xander says to no one in particular as he eats a few plantains and drinks some water. When no one responds he repeats: “Three weeks.”

“Yes, Xander,” Buffy finally says, “we’ve been here three weeks.”

“How much weight do you think you’ve lost?” he asks the girl.

Buffy holds out her arms and considers it. “I don’t know,” she finally says, “maybe 12 pounds?”

“I’d say 16,” Joyce puts in.

“Wow,” Xander says, “you must be really observant to have noticed how much Buffy weighed at the first challenge.”

“I try,” Joyce agrees.

MFashnek Camp
“We’ve got mail,” Robin calls as he returns from the mail box. The girls are all sunbathing on the beach, looking relaxed. They all look surprised that they have tree mail.

Confessional Caption – Kendra- Interpreter
“We were enjoying our day. Three weeks we’ve been on the island and in the game. I thought we had the day off and then here comes Robin with tree mail.”

“You’ll need to choose carefully and quickly,
To secure a good life on the Island,” we hear Faith read.

Akathla Camp
“Does anyone else think that they hired a new tree mail writer this season?” Xander suggests.

“Like one who’s no good at poetry?” Buffy agrees.

“Do you think it’s merge?” Joyce attempts to focus the other two.

“Could be,” Buffy speculates.

Reward Challenge
Both teams file in to stand on their mats.

Jeff walks in smiling at the teams. “Well,” he starts, “look around. You have made it half-way through this game. It’s day 21 and there are eight Survivors left of an original 16.” The Survivors give a cautious cheer.

Jeff smiles before instructing: “You’ve heard it before. Drop your buffs.”

Everyone does so smiling and cheering as Jeff hands out new buffs—green ones. “You will choose your new tribe name later. But first,” he smiles, “we will have a little reward challenge.”

Everyone looks surprised and Jeff turns to show that opposite him are eight tree stumps about waist high. He directs each player to the stumps which they see hold a marker and piece of paper, much like they use at tribal council. The stumps form a gentle arc and are placed 3 or so feet from each other.

“Ok,” Jeff says, “this challenge is simple… or maybe not so simple. Your new tribe will have a new camp.” He holds up a scroll of paper and explains that this is a map to the new location. “You will automatically get the belongings you brought with you to the game and these will be at your camp when you get there.”

“However,” Jeff continues, “the rest of your team belongings are still at your old camps. That’s where that piece of paper comes in.” He points at the paper. “Each person can write down one thing that they want to move from either old camp to the new camp. Once we reveal the responses and give you the map, you will have fifteen minutes to move the items from your old camps to the new one.” Everyone gasps at the rules of the game. “If two people write down the same item, you do not get another try.” Jeff smiles slyly: “This means that you want to select the most necessary item but not one that someone else will select.”

Everyone nods their heads although Xander and Buffy seem to have confused looks on their faces. “Survivors Ready,” Jeff yells, “Go!”

Confessional Caption – Joyce – Art Gallery Owner
“Today’s challenge was harder than you would think. On one hand you want to select the really necessary things but on the other if 5 people select the rice, we’re out a lot of other selections.”

Everyone finishes writing quickly or slowly and waits for the last person, Willow, to finish writing. “Ok,” Jeff says, “let’s go around the circle.” He points at Robin who has chosen the cooking pot from MFashnek. “Good choice,” Jeff announces before pointing to Tara. Apparently not wanting to take any chances, Tara chose MFashnek’s rice. Kendra chooses the fish hooks and line but Faith duplicates that choice. Everyone groans as they realize that they have lost a choice. Willow chooses the machete from the Akathla camp. Buffy reveals that she chose the rice from Akathla. Joyce duplicated the fishing hooks and line choice (again), wasting her choice. Xander surprises the group by selecting MFashnek’s beans.

“Ok,” Jeff announces, “that means that you can take the cooking pot, fishing hooks and line, beans, and rice from the MFashnek camp and the rice and machete from Akathla.” He holds the map out and waits to see who will take it. When no one else steps up, Faith takes the map. “You have fifteen minutes to take these items from the camps and bring them to that location,” Jeff yells, “starting… Now!”

Faith continues looking at the map for a moment before handing it to Willow. “Who goes where?” she asks the redhead. Willow looks at the map for a minute before directing the others: “Faith, Kendra, and Robin go to MFashnek. You are getting the cooking pot, fishing hooks and line, beans, and rice.” That group takes another look at the map and runs through the jungle toward their camp. Willow turns to Buffy and Xander and tells them: “You are getting the machete and rice.”

Confessional Caption – Buffy – College Student
“The most interesting thing about today’s challenge? Willow’s directions. I would have thought that she’d go back with Xander and I. Maybe she wants to show them that she’s with them. But I know she still has an alliance with me. Maybe she can come back and bring Tara with her. Then we outnumber them 5-3.”

We see various shots of Kendra, Faith, and Robin running through the jungle as well as Buffy and Xander running along their path.

Confessional Caption – Tara – Medical Receptionist
Tara’s eyes look slightly wet as she says, “I know it’s really stupid but I was kind of s-sad not to get to go back to camp. I know that Willow did the planning well for everyone but I lived there three weeks and suddenly we have a new c-camp.”

We see Willow, Tara, and Joyce arrive at the new camp. They look around to see that the new camp is on an unsullied stretch of beach. Sitting at the base of a cluster of trees is a crate. “Presents?” Joyce suggests.

The three women agree to not open the crate until the others get to the new location. After a quick discussion they decide that they can be most useful by heading down the paths toward the old camps and directing their campmates as they see them. Tara and Willow head down the path toward MFashnek while Joyce heads toward the Akathla campsite.

Confessional Caption – Willow – Software Startup Owner
“Well I’ll tell you. I had to think quickly about greeting the people who went back. Going with Tara I think really shows that I’m in that group now. It’s not something I want Joyce or Buffy thinking about but I do want Tara to be clear about it. I mean the numbers are in that group.” She looks distraught as she explains, “Of course it’s totally possible that everyone will see me as a threat and caught in the gears: the next one gone.”

Tara spots Faith, Kendra, and Robin running down the path and runs to meet them. As she does, Faith hands her the bag of rice and she turns with them to return to the new campsite. Willow guides the group. By the time they reach the campsite, they find Buffy, Xander, and Joyce there. Buffy and Xander are bent over with their hands on their knees gulping for air. Once the five people who ran have recovered, Joyce tells them, “They left us a surprise.”

The group quickly opens the crate and cheers when they find three blankets, a bottle of Champaign, and a bag of oranges inside. Popping the cork on the Champaign they pass the bottle around, taking sips and enjoying fruit.

After the commercial, we see shots of the group working to erect a new shelter. Xander gives directions and does the lion’s share of the work with help from Robin, Faith, and Kendra. The others continue their normal tasks of gathering firewood and berries, and attempting to catch fish. By the time dark falls we can see that they have made fire and cooked some rice which Tara dispenses to everyone. The shelter is very makeshift but palm leaves at least offer some protection from the weather. Using the limited number of blankets, we see Tara and Willow; Robin, Faith, and Kendra; and Buffy, Joyce, and Xander sharing them as they sleep.

Next shots show a storm over the island. Rain pours down and lightening is frequent. Although they huddle together under the new blankets, it is obvious that everyone is soaked and cold.

Day 22
Confessional Caption – Robin – High School Principal
“Well we got these nice new blankets,” he says, “and had the worst storm since we arrived here. I don’t know if anyone got any sleep at all.”

The shell-shocked looking group huddles around the fire pit as Faith and Tara work to restart the fire using the damp wood. Finally Willow stands up and declares that she’s going to see if she can find a good place to dry the blankets. Buffy goes with.

Once they are away from the other Survivors, the two girls have an obviously joyous reunion. “So what’s up, Will?” Buffy teases, “I notice you were sharing your sopping blanket with Tara last night?”

Willow blushes but doesn’t answer the question. “I’m trying to find a good place for this,” she instead says.

“But we’re good right?” Buffy confirms.

Willow smiles, “What do you think?”

By midday we see that they have gotten their fire started and are working in earnest to shore up their shelter.

Confessional Caption – Faith – Personal Trainer
“Man. I do not want to spend another damn night like that. I just about froze my parts right off.”

We see a shot of Buffy fishing and she seems to be doing well. She pulls a large fish from the water.

Confessional Caption – Buffy – College Student
“I’ll tell you one thing about this beach.” She holds out the fish she was shown catching earlier. “I never had a shot at a fish this size on the Akathla beach. We’re going to feast tonight.” She holds up her shirt to show her ribs. “And I can really use it.”

A shot of a few good sized fish in the cooking pot is followed by Joyce distributing the cooked meat to the Survivors. As they eat, they begin discussing a new tribe name.

Day 23
“We’ve got mail,” Kendra and Buffy announce as they arrive back at the much more secure looking shelter.

The mail consists of a small wooden model of a triangular ladder with five rungs and a colored flag at the top. The words, “Out wit, Outlast, Outplay” are written on the middle three rungs.

We see the survivors file in to take their places on the single mat on challenge beach. Jeff approaches smiling and welcomes them. “How have you found your new camp?” he asks first.

“It’s a nice camp,” Robin offers but the storm last night really hit us hard.

“Did you get wet?” Jeff asks.

“Soaked would be a better word,” Faith offers, “I thought Buffy here was going to shiver a hole in the beach.” Everyone laughs, particularly to note that Faith was easily as cold as Buffy.

“In all that freezing,” Jeff asks, “did you have a chance to come up with a new tribe name?”

“Yes,” Joyce answers, “we’re the White Hats.” Jeff looks puzzled so Faith explains: “Like we’re the good guys because each of us thinks we are a good guy.”

Jeff smiles a little cautiously before saying, “Great!” He holds up the immunity idol and says, “This is useless from this point forward. Now you’re playing for this.” He holds up the immunity necklace that only Tara and Willow have worn to this point.

Everyone cheers at the appearance of the immunity necklace. “You’re playing today for this immunity necklace,” Jeff explains unnecessarily, “everyone wants immunity.”

Confessional Caption – Faith – Personal Trainer
“Today I’m laying back and checking out the competition. I don’t think I’m going home today no matter what so I can afford to lose the challenge. Going full out is stupid unless you think you’re going to be voted off because winning a challenge is just hanging a target on your back.” She holds up her hands and mock yells: “Hey everyone! I’m a threat, how about voting my ass off?”

Jeff points past the survivors to explain the challenge: “Today’s challenge will be mostly physical. Each of you has a ladder structure in front of you.” He points to the ladder outlines. Each ladder leans against a platform about five feet off the ground and has a colored flag on a string which extends upward along a flag pole. The ladders have no rungs but have five slots where the rungs apparently will go. He points to the water on which are floating ten platforms. “Each rung for your ladders is on one of those platforms. We divided them into two colors to make it easer. You will swim out and retrieve your rungs, bring them back, and construct your ladder. The rungs are different sizes and can only be positioned in only one way to build the entire ladder.” Everyone looks over at Willow as if making the point about her ability to solve puzzles like this one. Jeff continues: “Once you have built your ladder, you can climb it and raise your flag. The first flag up wins immunity.”

Everyone cheers when he asks if immunity is worth playing. Next we see the players lined up in front of their towers which Jeff tells us were randomly assigned. Apparently Faith, Robin, Willow, and Xander will be racing to one set of rafts while the others—Joyce, Buffy, Kendra, and Tara-- will be racing to the other set. At his call of “Survivors, Ready. Go!” everyone begins running to the water.

As they swim we can see some individuals beginning to pull away, namely Kendra, Robin, and Buffy. However, as they utilize different strategies, it is hard to tell who is leading. Kendra and Robin retrieve their first rungs and return to the beach while Buffy apparently decides to swim to the farthest rung first. She reaches the divider which adds an additional obstacle for the last raft and climbs over it to retrieve her first rung and begin the return swim. By the time she reaches the beach, most other competitors have decided to take her approach and are swimming for the farthest rung next.

Jeff shouts out commentary noting that Faith has returned with two rungs but has not gotten the farthest ones yet while Buffy is returning with her second rung having gone for the farthest ones first. Robin and Kendra both have two rungs on the beach and are swimming for their third while the others are returning with their second rungs. He next comments that Buffy is taking an interesting strategy as she runs to her ladder with the first two rungs and places them while taking gulping breaths: “Buffy places her first two rungs, taking a bit of a rest.”

“Buffy returning to the water as Xander and Kendra follow her example,” Jeff calls out. “Buffy, Xander, and Kendra have placed two rungs on their ladders. Robin has three on the beach and Faith and Willow are returning with their second rungs. Joyce and Tara falling behind in the swimming!”

Jeff continues his commentary as Buffy returns to toss her third rung on the beach. By the time she does, Robin has placed all but the last of his rungs on the beach. “Buffy returning with her third run and going back out for her fourth as Robin swims for the farthest rung. He has four on the beach ahead of the other Survivors.” The Survivors are obviously tiring: “Buffy places her fourth rung on the ladder and turns to get the last rung from the water. Xander has two on his ladder and two on the beach and is in the water heading for his last rung. Kendra also has two on the ladder and two on the beach. Tara gets into the contest putting her third rung on her ladder and running back for the water as Faith places her fourth rung on the beach.”

Willow places her third rung on the ladder and returns to the water but stands in the waist-deep water attempting to catch her breath. Joyce, Xander, and Tara are likewise catching their breath as the commentary continues: “Faith still swimming strong toward her fifth piece, the farthest piece. Buffy swims back with her last piece as is Kendra. Buffy is closer than Kendra who has farther to go.” Buffy reaches the beach first and runs for her ladder. “Buffy working to place her final rung as Robin reaches his ladder with all five of his rungs! Kendra and Faith are both on the beach with their final rungs but Faith has none in her ladder.” Kendra reaches her ladder as Robin has three rungs in place and Buffy is putting the final rung in place. “Buffy climbs her ladder and raises her flag to take the first individual immunity challenge!”

The other competitors collapse on the beach or swim close enough to collapse in the shallow water as Buffy moves forward to take the immunity necklace.

Confessional Caption – Buffy – College Student
“I really needed this immunity. I figure with our numbers down my best chance is to have the time to make some alliances. I have mom and Willow with me so I just need to get one other person to flip and we have the numbers.”

We see the Survivors returning to camp and eating a small meal of rice and berries. Tara, Kendra, and Faith go to bathe in the ocean. They each rub the wet sand on their skin. “We know who goes tonight?” Kendra asks.

The others nod their heads.

Next we see Joyce, Buffy, and Willow breaking up fire wood. They are talking quietly. “So it’s Xander tonight?” Buffy asks Willow.

Willow and Joyce agree and then the older woman walks away from the younger girls. Next we see Xander approaching the two women. He gives them both warm hugs before asking straight out if he is going home tonight. Both hem and haw around a little bit before telling him that they can’t control his fate. He argues that the three of them with Joyce can tie the vote but they say that they aren’t willing to take the chance that they will get unlucky with the stone. Finally they walk away from the conversation.

As they walk off, Buffy tells Willow, “You and I and Joyce. If we get Robin to switch, we can be the final four.” Willow nods her head but doesn’t verbally commit to anything.

Tribal Council
The eight remaining tribe members enter the tribal council area and sit after putting their torches in place. Jeff welcomes them and then says, “And for the first time tonight: our first jury member.” Mac walks in and takes a seat across from the Survivors. He looks very good in a pair of cargo shorts, belt, safari shirt, and hiking boots. It is obvious that he has had a haircut, shave, and a few days of good sleep and food.

“Well,” Jeff starts, “how is the new camp?”

“Pretty sharp,” Robin answers, “we got our shelter built and the fishing is much better.”

“So you’ve been eating?” Jeff follows it up.

“Better,” Buffy answers. “That doesn’t mean a feast. We shared three good sized fish today.”

“Tara,” Jeff asks, “who feeds everyone?”

“Some p-people fish,” she explains nervously, “others gather berries or plantains or c-c-c…” She gives up and Faith finishes seamlessly: “cook rice.”

“How do you know if the berries are safe to eat?” Jeff asks.

Tara looks relieved as Joyce explains for her, “Tara seems to know everything about these plants. She found them, tests them, and tells us what’s safe.”

“So you can’t really do it without her?” Jeff pinpoints.

“No one is indispensable,” Buffy answers, “we can all provide food.”

“What about you Xander,” Jeff asks, “what do you provide?”

“I did a lot of work on the shelter today,” the young man explains. “And I do a lot to gather firewood and keep the camp running smoothly.”

“Kendra,” Jeff says, “what about friendships on the island? Are they real? Are some people closer than others?”

“You spend 24 days with people,” Kendra answers, “you find some who you have a real connection with. There are people you can feel comfortable around and trust.”

“What about you, Willow?” Jeff puts her on the spot.

“Sure,” Willow attempts to be nonchalant. “Three weeks is a long time. You get a chance to see who you really bond with.” She looks sideways at Tara who blushes. “Relationships develop. Real feelings.”

“It’s time to vote,” Jeff says.

Faith votes first followed by Kendra and Tara. Joyce follows her and we see her vote for Xander. Xander votes for Tara. Next Robin, Willow, and Buffy vote. Jeff carries back the pot of votes and begins to count them. “First vote: Xander.” No one looks surprised. “Second vote: Xander. Third vote: Tara.” Faith and Kendra both look at the carpenter with shock and what seems like a hint of anger. “That’s two votes Xander, one vote Tara,” Jeff recaps. “Fourth vote: Xander. Xander. And the 9th person voted off Survivor – Ash Island and the 2nd member of the jury: Xander.” Xander takes his torch to Jeff who gives his trademark: “The tribe has spoken.” Jeff then addresses the tribe: “Well it seems that you were unified on this one. Head back to camp.”

Parting Words – Xander
“Well, I played this game the best I could and really I was outmanned. Buffy, I’m rooting for you now even though you voted against me. I’m going to enjoy my meal in a few minutes. See you soon.”

Next Week on Survivor
Voice-over”Word from home buoys the spirits of the Survivors.”
Shots of the Survivors screaming and crying in excitement.

Voice-over”And a secret is revealed.”
We see Tara walking in the dark as she walks up to Kendra and Faith telling the other two girls, “We’ve got a problem.”

Next Week on Survivor – Ash Island

[watty]

It's me again. May be I'll go away again so you don't always see me here first .

Fantastic episode, of course. White Hats is just inspired . We also see where Tara's loyalties, when it comes to Survivor, lies. And Willow surely respects that, well of course she does, look at all the smoochies post-show.

It's heating up, definitely.

Faith is showing a lot of leadership qualities,

one hint that Tara’s switching alliances, breaking her damn word, and I’ll cut her loose even before the kid.

is spoken like someone who is leading, rather than following. That she gives the map to Willow speaks volumes, as a leader it's her job to recognize the value of the people with her.

Buffy is proving to be a strong competitor, on par with Robin. A big threat to F/K/T and of course gives herself (and Joyce) an edge.

W/T the relationship is in a precarious position. I'm glad that the MFashneks are not judgmental about them and have kept their comments to show related stuff. It'll be interesting to see Buffy's reaction when she sees W/T as more than just sharers of blannket.

Willow is now the one in a difficult position. She is at best an outsider withint the F/K/T clique, they'll take her along if it suits them but will ditch her quickly. Buffy wants her in the Buff/Joyce camp but she knows she'll never get Tara, but will feel Willow has deserted her.

I re-read the earlier chapters and I think that the final two can't be W and T. It may be one, or the other. Why? Willow had to get Tara's number from the producers, suggesting they didn't leave the island together. Otherwise, with how close they seem to be getting, they'd be at the exchanging phone numbers, except if one of them got voted off in tribal council and there was no time for good-byes. Not much of a theory, but that's what I've come up with.

And way back, there was a mention of Juror #5. Now you may be totally misdirecting, but my gut feel is Willow doesn't make F4. The F/K/T alliance is too strong, and Tara despite her personal attraction for Willow, will not jeopardize it because she's on the island to win. I remember posing the dilemma of "girl or money" for Willow, I think that given this choice, Tara will choose the money. Cos she can have the rest of her life to get the girl.

I'm guessing F4 = Faith, Kendra, Tara and Buffy. Buffy because she wins an IC. My guess also is Joyce is the next to go -- as her status as Buffy's Mom is revealed next episode and that unbreakable alliance is too much of a threat. Much more than Willow. F/K/T will vote one out, for certain.

Much food for thought, very interesting. Thanks !

[Still Waters T]

YAY! Update!

I was half expecting to see Willow having to make a choice between Tara (and her alliance) and Buffy in this update. I mean, I know she has, but Buffy doesn't know that. Willow seems a little guilty about that; the way she avoids answering Buffy directly here:

“But we’re good right?” Buffy confirms.

Willow smiles, “What do you think?”

And how she just nods her head here:

As they walk off, Buffy tells Willow, “You and I and Joyce. If we get Robin to switch, we can be the final four.” Willow nods her head but doesn’t verbally commit to anything.

And I feel kinda bad for Buffy, thinking she and Willow are all good; not suspecting a thing.But that's the way this game is played, oh well.

I'm happy about Willow and Tara snuggling. Though if Faith, Kendra, Tara and Willow make it as the final 4, I hope Tara votes for someone other than WIllow; in my head I think she'd have more of a chance at winning than if she's left with both Faith and Kendra on the island. (1) Cos she's physically stronger than Willow, and (2) cos if i.e. I'd been Willow I'd have let Tara win (she needs the money more than Willow).

Liv

[stillrunning]

Woohoo! Backstabbing Xander finally got what was coming to him!! It's definately going to start getting interesting though, now that all we have left are people in such strong alliances. I'm curious to see what the outcome of all of this will be.

[Insanity]

Hey Debra!

I realized I haven't done feedback on this quite some time!

I'm determined to be a good kitten and give feedback to every story I read (=enjoy) on this board.

hum hum, what to say.

It wasn't a real surprise that Xander is voted off the game. He has no strong alliances, since he tried to "sell" Buffy once.

I think Willow is in a very difficult possition. On one hand there is Faith/Kendra/ Tara as a very strong group. On the other hand there is her alliance with Buffy and most certainly Joyce. So its really all up to Willow.
If she joins the F/K/T alliance she is most certainly save.

But what is Robin going to do?

Voice-over”And a secret is revealed.”
We see Tara walking in the dark as she walks up to Kendra and Faith telling the other two girls, “We’ve got a problem.”

That is a hell of a cliffhanger babe! You better continue this soon, or I will... don't know yet. But I will come up with a horrible punishment!

Insanity

[irishgrl3]

I remember my first reply about not being a big fan of reality television, but I gotta tell ya this story is riveting. I find my self eagerly anticipating the next line as I am reading. Sounds kind of silly but I am a sucker for action, and good storytelling!

Like I said before,I kind of felt bad for Xander, I figured he was the next to get voted off but he seemed so lost through out his stay there. As far as the final four I think Faith, Kendra, and Tara will be difficult to split. My fourth finalist a toss up between Robin and Buffy. Tough call, but probably leaning toward Buffy staying. I think Joyce is next to get voted off, and then Willow. Great job, and as always looking forward to what's next.
-anna

[meretricious]

debra, i love how often you and watson are on the same update schedule, it's wonderful when one of you puts me in that "reality" frame of mind and the other follows along with an update.
and the white hats, huh? that was an episode i considered for your favorite, but couldn't think of anything remotely tribal sounding about it, but then you went western. funny that they all probably do think they're a good guy, even as they talk about ways to misleaad and betray each other.
i'm also agreeing with watson that willow prob.doesn't make final four, i can see either buffy or robin win an immunity challenge and get ahead of her.
joyce and buffy aren't being very careful, though, anyone other than xander would have clued in a little more there, i'm thinking, and it looks like the beans get spilled on them pretty soon. that would put the target pretty firmly on buffy's back, since joyce is weaker, she really needs to keep winning immunity.
i would've liked to have seen xander on the morning show, giving harry a chance to say something like "is it fair to say, xander, that you were a relatively stupid player?"~mary

[watersong84]

Hmmm... This is starting to get extremely interesting. I knew all hell would break loose when they merged, and it seems like it's starting to. The "White hats," now that's funny.

Final four, final four, who could you be? I think the answer all depends on Willow, Robin, and the immunity challenges. If Willow and Robin both go with Buffy and Joyce, which could lead to that extremely frustrating line that Tara says at the end of the last post,

“We’ve got a problem.”

then things could be looking bad for Kendra, Faith, and possibly Tara. But it could easily go the other way around. I also think that both Kendra and Faith could save their arses by winning immunity challenges, but then again so could Buffy, Robin, and in a smaty-pants type challenge, Willow.

My bet for the final four is going to have to be Kendra, Willow, Buffy, and Tara. And I'm probably dead wrong. oh well.