Anything over 3 trans days, all seniority and S3C boarding status was kept, just paid the fees involved; now yes, you get 2 more trips but your 4th trip and beyond, 'all' seniority is lost and date of travel is used for seniority at S4 status. Personally, if given the choice in this situation, I'd pay the fees and keep my seniority and S3C status for travel.

Too many buddy pass riders overseas to fall behind and trying to get back home in time for work will be even more impossible.