Ah, the dreaded double elimination.

Both tribes to tribal council.  Both tribes facing Jeff’s one-man firing squad.  Both tribes sending someone packing.

This one actually looked painful.  Amanda’s face told the whole story for the Heroes.  Her characteristic frown was right on cue to let America know that James was history.  One has to feel bad for a guy that wants this so badly, but is sidelined from an injury.  That has to be the worst way to leave the game.

And to top it off, the Heroes had to watch the Villains eat hot dogs, soda, and “fixins” while they discussed their tribal issues.

Ugh.

And as for the Villains?  Well, let us just say that Tyson, in the best tradition of The Princess Bride, “fell victim to one of the classic blunders.  The first is,” never believe a word that Russell says to you on a Tribal Council day (or, any day come to think of it).  The second is, well…I guess it’s don’t listen to Russell…let me check…hmmm…yup…that’s the second one, too.

And so, Tyson is home watching American Idol while the others go back to camp and try to figure out how such a bizarre turn of events may have made Parvati or Russell another million bucks.

This is a game of strategy, cold and calculating.  It’s a game of apple-biting, as James would say (and he did a few seasons ago).  The Villains had the perfect plan to eliminate Parvati or Russell, but Tyson had to bite the apple and mess it up, thus giving Russell and Parvati an in to save their skins.

I guess it’s just a grand metaphor, eh?  They often say of life that the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.  Right now, I think the mice are the only satisfied customers on either the Villain or Hero beaches.

This season is getting uncomfortable.

The groups are getting uncomfortable.

And that means, Survivor is getting  into full swing.

-josh