Of Light And Shadow by FetchingMadScientist

momnesia@yahoo.com
12/08/2013 01:33 am
For Him         

WOW!!!    Really good story; I hated to read the last lines!      I tried to find the sequel, but could not locate it here in the "bloodsheverse" collection.      Can you tell me where you posted it?

This was by far one of the BEST Buffy Fan Fictions I have read since I started reading them 6 months ago.    I didn't start watching the TV series until it showed up on SyFy and Chiller a couple of years ago, so I got a very late start on the fan fiction.  

Anyway, excellent story!     I hope you will continue to write such stories, and thank you for sharing your talent with the rest of us.

Theresa

07/13/2013 04:11 pm
For Him         
powerful, but at times hard to follow.

04/25/2010 04:33 am
For Him         
Wow !

Deeply moving story.

Stayed up all night to finish this, and i hope to see the sequel soon!

Pretty please ??

;)
Thanks!  I hope you got some sleep.  It is so nice to know that people are still reading...Life sometimes gets in the way but I am working on the next story.  I hope you'll hang in there with me,

Laura
10/28/2009 01:01 pm
For Him         
Where is the sequel???
Hey, thanks for reading!  RL can throw a whammy on the muse, but I am working on it.  Do you really want it?  You're the only one who's asked.  If you are really interested, I'm sure I can find the muse again.  I know he's here somewhere...Maybe a bloomin' onion will help?

  Thanks again!

11/30/2007 02:19 am
For Him         
beautiful, incredible epic :) you've done a wonderful job with this, love :)
Thank you for saying so! :) It's far from over, and I'm glad you enjoyed this part.

11/11/2007 08:55 pm
For Him         
More pieces for the jigsaw. This is fabuous writing.
Thanks, and thank you for reading.

Miss Rose
11/10/2007 01:23 pm
For Him         
Great story! :clap: It's definitely been an interesting ride. Thanks for sharing. :)
It's not over yet. Look for the next part very soon!

11/10/2007 07:04 am
For Him         
i believe "adventure" describes it well. very good read, thank you.
You're so welcome! :) One question: Are you ready for more...?

11/05/2007 05:31 pm
Past Participle         
poor spike, poor buffy, so lost and confused...excellent writing, love :) can't wait to see how it all turns out :)
Thanks. This part was hard to write. I'm glad you thought the chapter was up to the standard of the rest of the story...And I look forward to seeing how this turns out, too. :)

10/28/2007 04:44 am
Past Participle         
the council would have done that to jean d'arc. very good read, thank you.
You bet they would, no qualms at all...Time for Giles to change things.

Miss Rose
10/27/2007 02:45 pm
Past Participle         
I loved the Joan of Arc twist, and the scene in Giles' hospital room was very interesting. Wonderful chapter as always!
I'm so glad you caught that! :) No wonder Buffy wanted to be called "Joan" in TR. And, when Mr. Marsters slipped, and pronounced the name the way the French do, in that episode...a plot point was formed. Thanks for reading!

kim
10/26/2007 10:42 pm
Past Participle         
Why didn't they put Buffy in a sleep for a while, so she couldn't do this to herself? They weren't powerless.

Giles was talking about Joan of Arc. Clever use. Poor Giles...
Good catch. kim. :) I haven't revealed all yet...be patient, and thanks for reading.

10/10/2007 11:24 pm
Hello, Huston...         
huh...there's some interesting answers to some of the questions...very well constructed piece of fiction you're building here, love...very well done :)
Thank you! :) Coming from you that means a whole bunch. This installment should be ending soon...But then, I've said that before, about twenty chapters ago as a matter of fact; so who knows?

Thanks for hanging in with me, DoS.

10/09/2007 04:40 am
Hello, Huston...         
very good chapter, thank you.
You are very welcome, vladt! :)

10/08/2007 10:27 pm
Hello, Huston...         
A fabulous read -- the more fractured it becomes, the harder I have to pay attention. Really original.
Glad I got your attention, and that you think the story is original, and worth your time. That means so much! :) Thanks!

dicecanntcry
10/08/2007 03:58 pm
Hello, Huston...         
I think what I'm gonna have to do is just read through everything again all at once when it's finished. Cuz, I'm serious when I say at the end of every chapter, I have NO clue what's going on. Buffy thought Spike was already dust... then there's the whole Africa bit, and now Spike is actually dust... I don't know it is about your stories sometimes - they're so very enjoyable for me to read - but so very difficult for me to understand and track with. It makes me feel like such an idiot! lol. :P

Anyway - just wanted to let you know I am enjoying this, even if I'm usually lost when reading it! ;)
So glad you're reading! :) And I know that some people aren't into stories that fit together like puzzle pieces. I'm one of those, but not everyone is. Some like to see the picture as a whole. I guess you're one of those, and don't apologize for it! It's great!:)

Don't hesitate to ask any questions before the whole puzzle is put together, and don't stop reading. I think there's gonna be a nice picture, once all the little pieces fit in the right places.

Miss Rose
10/08/2007 02:14 pm
Hello, Huston...         
Loved getting all this new info, it's all so fascinating. Fantastic chapter!
:) Glad you liked it.

kim
10/08/2007 10:53 am
Hello, Huston...         
Taking the Slayer out of Buffy is a really stupid idea. Obviously, since it made her insane....

They don't even know what they're playing with, setting this all in motion now....man, logic has really fled, and it's going to get so bad....
Spike tried, so did Giles...:( Sometimes Buffy just won't see reason.

Thanks for reading.

09/10/2007 05:58 am
Secundum Os         
very good read, thank you. love red right under angelus' nose.
Heh...sneaky huh? Thanks for reading.

09/10/2007 12:41 am
Secundum Os         
Love the Willow twist. Another call to arms ready? Loving this.
I'm glad. You ready...? ;)

09/09/2007 08:51 pm
Secundum Os         
wow!! so not who i expected but that works wonderfully!!! hope she can manage to help them before spike ends up hurt worse than he already is, poor thing :( great chapter, love, looking forward to more :)
I hope so because that knight in black armor...? He just can't seem to help himself, when faced with "Buffy, doe-eyed-and-crying" no one is safe. ;) Logic goes out the window. Run, Spike! Run, before you get hurt!

Miss Rose
09/09/2007 03:12 am
Secundum Os         
Whoa! :o The Willow twist was so surprising! Wonderful chapter!
Glad I surprised you. :)

09/09/2007 02:42 am
Secundum Os         
Super tense developments. Great chapter.
Building up to the next story. Gotta give you a reason to read. ;)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/09/2007 12:59 am
Secundum Os         
Good chapter.Update soon. Poor Guilty!Buffy. I guess W&H really brought out the Angelus part of Angel. (By the way, listening to "Don't Fear The Reaper" while reading this is really fun.)
OOOH surround sound reading! Good song .:) No, W&H didn't make Angel a jerk. He just is one.

09/04/2007 12:59 am
Home         
very good read, thank you. always preferred angelus to angel. angelus was always a more honest character. angel reminds me of the steorotype used car salesman.
I love honest characters too. That's why I love Spike. :)

Threaten anyone he considers family, and Angelus is bound to show, sooner or later.

It should be fun. ;) Thanks for reading!

Dreamsofspike
09/01/2007 07:50 pm
Home         
well that certainly sounds ominous...great, excellent chapter, love...love the emotion when buffy thinks that spike's gone forever...excellent work :)
Thanks, that means a lot. :) Buffy is hard to write emotionally, and make her seem true, because on the show she seemed so closed off by the time this story is taking place. I'm glad you like my take on her.

09/01/2007 12:59 pm
Home         
Oh you've updated, thanks Wendy. Angel's on this tangent because Spikes dead? He wanted him dead, didn't he? I can't wait to see where this goes, when all the lines are tied up in a nice pretty bow. Looking forward to more.
More than that, but I haven't gotten to it yet. Be patient. :) Angel is Spike's grandsire. Haven't you been disappointed in someone, say something you don't mean and still been fiercely protective of that person?

Welcome to the paradox that is Angelus. :)

And, thanks for reading!

Miss Rose
09/01/2007 05:57 am
Home         
Very informative update. I really enjoyed getting this glimpse at things through Angelus' twisted POV. Great chapter!
Thanks. Now, if I would only show you * why* he's like this, we'd be in business! ;)

kim
09/01/2007 01:37 am
Home         
Ah, to have Angel/Angelus going after someone for the sake of Spike.....who would hardly believe it? But, he's so angry that he's not caring who gets hurt in the process anymore....You used to be better than that, Angel. Sad.
Oh, how the mighty have fallen... Thanks for reading. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/01/2007 12:40 am
Home         
Good chapter.Update soon.I'm still really confused. And is Angel really Angelus now?
I didn't intend to confuse you. But as to Angel being Angelus, I never saw a difference, so...:) But, if you do...If he really is grieving the loss of Spike...What do you think? Thanks for reading.

09/01/2007 12:29 am
Home         
Great picture of Angelus on the edge.
Thanks ! :)

09/29/2010 03:35 am
Partly Sunny         
This story was really good...until the last few chapters. It's confusing as hell now and I have no clue what's going on. The timeline is seriously funked up and hinders the flow of the story. Badly.

08/12/2007 10:02 pm
Partly Sunny         
so glad that it all seems as if it's going to come out okay...great chapter, love :)
Yeah, it seems that way. :) It might be a long road though.

08/11/2007 01:20 am
Partly Sunny         
So sad, remembering what each had lost. Glad that Buffy and the rest, has had hope all this time. Don't know who will be the hero this time, it could be any of them. You've woven this wonderful tale and it's anyone's guess, who takes up the sword. I'm hoping it might be Giles. Great chapter, thanks sweetie.
Looks like ole' Rupert inherited that stubborn gene from somewhere...I wonder where? ;) Thanks for reading.

08/10/2007 02:04 am
Partly Sunny         
a touch of hope. excellent read, as always.
Thanks so much! :)

kim
08/08/2007 04:50 am
Partly Sunny         
Dust can't give you a coat, can it? :) Goodness, they've made such a mess....
Nope. But, someone hidden by a powerful glamor just might! :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/08/2007 02:31 am
Partly Sunny         
Good chapter.Update soon.I'm slightly confused,but that's okay. And aww,Giles wants to be with his family.
Just remember, it's all about what's behind the curtain...and who. ;)

Miss Rose
08/08/2007 12:30 am
Partly Sunny         
:( Simply beautiful, so uplifting. Loved the chapter! :)
Thank you. :)

pfeifferpack
08/08/2007 12:11 am
Partly Sunny         
Nice happy ending to the chapter there! Some ray of sunshine at this point is happily received. Very poignant look at Buffy's memory of Spike dusting...very emotional!

Kathleen
I'm so glad you liked it. Remember, things aren't what they seem. Dust may not be dust at all. :)

07/13/2007 12:58 am
To Serve And Protect         
they both care so much. beautifully sad read, thank you.
Thanks for reading. :)

07/12/2007 09:34 pm
To Serve And Protect         
So sad but glad for her revelation after all of these years. It was a long time coming. Just hate that they're in so much pain trying to protect each other, for their own goods. Can't wait to see how you solve this. Thanks for the update Wendy, really love this heart breaking tale.
Yeah, someone has to stop *trying* to be a hero, and actually step up an *be* a hero. Who do you think it will be?

07/12/2007 01:46 am
To Serve And Protect         
oh that was heartwrenching....so very sad :( poor things, they're in such a bad situation, no real clear answer as to what is the thing to do...excellent work, love :)
it seems like a no-win situation, doesn't it? Thanks for reading. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/11/2007 02:37 pm
To Serve And Protect         
Good chapter.Update soon.Both are being pretty stupid.I love when my favorite fics are being updated, because it keeps me busy and doesn't make me less crazy waiting for the new Harry Potter book to come out.
Thanks! :) They are pretty stubborn. I'm glad I rank with "Harry Potter. That's good, right? :P

07/11/2007 01:33 pm
To Serve And Protect         
how heartbreaking! Wonderful chapter! thank you!
Thanks for reading.

kim
07/11/2007 10:00 am
To Serve And Protect         
Two messed up, mixed up kids....
They are, aren't they? But then, real love can be very messy.

07/11/2007 09:47 am
To Serve And Protect         
A glimmer of light? If she can recall this moment, perhaps there's some hope for them.
Maybe...we'll have to see. ;)

Miss Rose
07/11/2007 05:35 am
To Serve And Protect         
I enjoyed the reading Buffy's musings, I also enjoyed the insightful conversation Spike and Buffy had. Great chapter!
Maybe now she can begin to understand him, and begin the long healing process. Thanks for reading.

06/25/2007 04:25 am
Right Hand, Left Hand         
excellent read, thank you.
Thanks for reading. :)

06/24/2007 10:52 pm
Right Hand, Left Hand         
But how long before the debt is paid! Things are not looking too hopeful in this world.
There is a reason for the missing time. Don't worry.

06/24/2007 10:19 pm
Right Hand, Left Hand         
how very tragic, how very sad this all is...i hope it all works out for them, but this chapter didn't offer much hope...however, it was still lovely..excellent work,love :)
It looks dark, I know. But, don't forget- I'm giving you glimpses into the future. There is some time missing- about five years, and didn't Mouse say that there was peace for a time?

This is just the first story in a series...keep reading.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/24/2007 01:16 pm
Right Hand, Left Hand         
Good chapter.Update soon.So I guess Angelus is really out.
Well, Spike is family. Angelus might have a hard time- the Slayer staked a vampire, with a soul! And to top it off, Spike was in love with her. That might make "Daddy" very angry.

kim
06/24/2007 12:07 pm
Right Hand, Left Hand         
Oh. My. God.....
Gottcha...;)

06/24/2007 07:25 am
Right Hand, Left Hand         
Can't wait to find out how Giles had helped Daisy to were she kept what she did know a secret. Glad to see someone else standing up to Angelus. Can't someone just dust the thorn in their side? It can't be that hard. Poor Panya, taking the wait of the world on his shoulders. He must have an "old soul" to take up were Giles left off. Excellent work Wendy. A wonderful story, thanks for sharing it.
Thanks for reading. I hope you're not too confused. Daisy and some other OCs will be explored in a new story. I don't have a title yet, though. Sorry...but watch for it, okay?

Miss Rose
06/24/2007 06:02 am
Right Hand, Left Hand         
Very interesting, there's certainly a lot of intriguing stuff going on. Can't wait to read more. Wonderful chapter!
Thanks! :) I hope that means that you'll read the next story, 'cause this one's almost finished.

06/24/2007 04:52 am
Right Hand, Left Hand         
ok i think i got it,,,, GREAT CHAPTER!!!!!! I can't wait for more!!!!
Great!!! Keep reading...

06/24/2007 02:38 am
Right Hand, Left Hand         
Oooo Interesting development and glad Giles had someone with a debt to pay!

Kathleen
Isn't it, though? Let's hope Daisy's loyalties can transcend the debt.

06/24/2007 07:14 am
The Killing Kind         
I can't believe she actually had Gile remove the Ukesolrill from her. She's not the slayer anymore. Since she's not, why do the Synod still want her? It's allso sad. Why won't Panya not want to help Spike? Where there's a will there's a way and Spike has it in spades. I hope she's finding comfort in his presence. A great chapter, well done.
Oh, but she is the Slayer. She will always be the Slayer. Taking part of yourself out, may do harm to more than just you. Buffy learns that, the hard way.

06/08/2007 05:58 am
The Killing Kind         
spike has someone to hopefully help clean up after his disastrous plan. very good read, thank you.
Let's hope. Read on, and find out.

06/07/2007 02:49 am
The Killing Kind         
this story is very confusing at times but its so good i can't stop reading it,,,, so i just wait out the parts that confuse me and hope i figure it out next chapter! Great chapter BTW!!!
Don't mean to confuse you. Hang in there, and thanks for reading.

06/07/2007 12:06 am
The Killing Kind         
wow that was a very traumatic, heartwrenching sort of chapter...but very very well done :) i loved it, pet :)
Thank you, that means so much! I live for the smiley face. It makes me smile...:) See?

06/06/2007 09:02 pm
The Killing Kind         
Wonder who can help now? Poor Spike, Poor Buffy. The Synod need to be removed from earth!

Excellent

Kathleen
I don't know. But, you keep reading and find out for me. Okay? About the Synod thing...that sounds like a struggle of epic proportions. But, it'll make a great story- don't you think?

06/06/2007 04:09 pm
The Killing Kind         
There's so little of Buffy left - this is going to take some fixing. Spike will have to be even more tenacious than ever if he's going to get anywhere, but then that's what he does!
He is very good at the underdog thing, isn't he? :)

Miss Rose
06/06/2007 02:25 pm
The Killing Kind         
I'm glad Spike is so determined, if anyone can find a way to help Buffy it's him. :)Wonderful chapter!
I am too. It's good to see.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/06/2007 02:22 pm
The Killing Kind         
I so wasn't expecting that time jump.Good twist.Update soon.I really hope Buffy and Giles will be all right soon.
I'm glad I surprised you. I will update as soon as I can. Thanks for reading.

kim
06/06/2007 07:25 am
The Killing Kind         
So, the Slayer was ripped out of Buffy, anyway?

They've all been so foolish, haven't they...?
I think that proves how much alike those two really are. Love is blind, ya know. Thanks for reading! :)

06/24/2007 06:37 am
Torn Asunder         
So much pain and you've done it so well. Thanks for the few words from the mouth of a child, it makes all the difference in the world. Spike wants for her to live and Panya showed her the way to let him live as well. Fantastic chapter, Wendy, thanks.
Sometimes it's the simple things that are hard for adults to grasp. Ans thanks for reading. :)

05/21/2007 10:21 pm
Torn Asunder         
“Thank you, Mouse,”and thank you for the fine read fetchingmadscientist .
You are very welcome!

05/18/2007 12:14 am
Torn Asunder         
wow, this is intense...another beautifully written chapter, incredible...loving this story, love :)
Thank you! :)

Miss Rose
05/17/2007 01:52 pm
Torn Asunder         
Poor Buffy is so broken. :( I liked that Spike was able to spread his warmth to her, she really needed it. Wonderful chapter.
Thanks! No one's better at putting broken things back together than Spike. Buffy's in good hands.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
05/17/2007 12:38 pm
Torn Asunder         
Good chapter.Update soon.Wow, people are dying all over the place.
Seems so, doesn't it? But, things are not always what they seem.

kim
05/17/2007 10:52 am
Torn Asunder         
Faith dead, huh...by the First moving to action?
It looks like it but...no. It's much more simple than that.

05/17/2007 10:27 am
Torn Asunder         
If this is the start of Buffy's decline, I hope we learn how she survived the six years until Spike finds her. Great story.
It is. And we will. Keep reading, please.

06/24/2007 06:28 am
Ghosts         
Hey Wendy, I just got away from this and I can't believe i'm this far behind. I missed this one before I went into the hospital and didn't get back to reading for three weeks. Of course every story I'd been reading had a major muse attack and everyone was posting, sometimes two or more chapters. I'm just now getting caught up. I wished they had a fav. feature here, it helps keep me aware of the stories I've been following while I was gone. It is a bit confusing going back and forth, since I didn't reread and refresh my memory but I'll get back in the saddle again. Congrats on your nominations, it's a very gripping story. Now to get caught up.
Thank you, Verda. There is a fav authors feature. You can check into it, if you like. That way you won't miss a chapter of the stories you like, or if an author has a new story, you can follow it, too. :)

05/17/2007 10:18 am
Ghosts         
Buffy's madness had to start somewhere -- how much trauma can she take?
Not much more, in fact. Thanks for reading.

05/01/2007 07:50 pm
Ghosts         
excellent read, thank you. spike really screwed up tis time.
Looks like he did, huh?

Miss Rose
05/01/2007 06:48 am
Ghosts         
Oh no! The effects of the spell were so tragic. :( I'm glad Spike was finally was able to find Buffy. Can't wait to find out where things go from her. Great chapter.
Thanks for reading, Rose. It means so much. :)

kim
05/01/2007 04:16 am
Ghosts         
Oh, goodness....
I second that...:(

05/01/2007 12:15 am
Ghosts         
Interesting turn of events. Mad Buffy. Fortunately Spike has some experience with madness on many levels.

Kathleen
Yes, he does. But, it still hurts to know that he is responsible, I'm sure. Thanks for reading!

05/01/2007 12:05 am
Ghosts         
hmmmm.....i think i'm still a bit lost, though i'm loving this fic, love...hopefully i'll figure it all out eventually :P great, touching, wrenching chapter, love...i very much enjoyed it :)
This story is kind of like an onion. There are sooo many layers of meaning. Let's hope I can help clear it up a little with the next chapter. Thanks for the comment. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/30/2007 11:59 pm
Ghosts         
Good chapter.Update soon.Ew to Creepy,Weird!Buffy.
Thanks! And, Buffy's not weird, she's just...lost.

04/30/2007 11:28 pm
Ghosts         
Ok i am lost again but i wanta be found!!!!! Not completely sure whats goin on here but maybe i will go back and reread maybe i missed something or maybe I'm not suppose to understand at the moment?

Either way great chapter!
There are hints as far back as the chapter "Nearsighted." ;) Have fun finding the clues, and don't be afraid to e-mail me if you're completely lost. Spike may bite...but I don't...much. ;)

04/30/2007 11:05 pm
Ghosts         
Phew -- such a powerful chapter. So many years apart, and poor Buffy's mind - tragedy on a grand scale.
Tragic isn't it. And having to watch the peace that was told of in the prophesies crumble as he saw her go slowly mad...? That had to be hard.

04/16/2007 06:12 pm
Apparitions         
spike's plan had a few flaws. hopefully he can rectify. very good update, thank you.
I hope he can too. And I hope you keep reading.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/15/2007 02:47 am
Apparitions         
Good chapter.Update.Aww to Spike and Buffy.Can we have some family time for Spike and Giles soon?
Thanks. Family time may be coming soon, I'm not sure though.

04/15/2007 12:44 am
Apparitions         
Wow Wendy, that was...wow! Five years she'd been in torture. Wondering what's wrong with Giles and why would Buffy be kept there. Not sorry that she killed Althenea, she deserved it. She was going to kill Spike, just sorry it made her a killer, though she may not have been that upset about it considering what she was going to do to Spike. It couldn't of been good for the rest of them because she was a watcher. Was there a time limit on the spell? Why five years? A powerful chapter, thanks.
Thanks for saying that. Now, to answer some of your questions: The spell has no time limit, but the fact that Spike is out of "hiding" now may have something to do with the fate of the original spellcaster, Giles. Spike may be the only one who can help Buffy. We all know she can get more than a little dependent, and rightly so, when someone she cares about is hurt in any way.

And, you're right, the death of Althenea was not a good thing for Buffy, in the sense that, she became a fugitive. That, and Giles had to do something to control the Slayer entity(the Ukesolrill). What might that have been...?

04/15/2007 12:35 am
Apparitions         
So sad......Hope they will be stronger together this time.

Kathleen
They're always stronger together than they would ever be apart. :)

04/14/2007 08:26 pm
Apparitions         
seems to me like leaving wasn't the best choice in the world, after all :( hope they can manage to put all the pieces back together...excellent update, love :)
Doesn't look like it. Let's hope Spike can help Buffy piece things together...

04/14/2007 06:52 pm
Apparitions         
OK I am alittle lost but it was still a great chapter... I dont know exactly what happened but maybe I'm not suppose to yet. can't wait for the next update!
Lost is good sometimes as this will most likely lead to you reading the next story in the series. I see that my evil scheme may have worked! ;)

Miss Rose
04/14/2007 03:24 pm
Apparitions         
I enjoyed the Spike/Panya talk, the backstory on Spike's missing years was really interesting. I'm glad Panya was able to help Spike reunite with Buffy... loved their reunion by the way! Great chapter.
Congrats on your new wins! :)
Thanks! There will be more about the "missing years" in the next story in the series. It should be coming soon.

Lou
04/14/2007 11:26 am
Apparitions         
Beauftifully written. And six years in hiding for Buffy -- a tragedy.
Not as long for Buffy as for Spike. But still, it is a tragedy when one gives up hope.

kim
04/14/2007 10:02 am
Apparitions         
Wow......

Things aren't well, obviously....6 years of hiding! And Buffy gave up....

The next story will be pretty dark, eh? If it covers those years?
The years that have passed have been very dark and lonely for them both. But Buffy did do some good. The next story will cover those lost years, so yeah, it could get pretty dark.

But they're together now, so it could get better, too.

04/04/2007 10:49 am
Double Bind         
Oh no! Has she gone catatonic again? If she is, hope Althenea has been slaying in her place. Guess it probably won't faze her to kill her to bring about another one, she is a watcher, they've killed slayers throughout time. Mouse is a shaman, but how far into the future are they if Panya is old now? Is anyone left behind besides Buffy? So many things to discover as consequences of his desperate move. Fantastic cliff hanger Wendy, thanks.
Well she has seen Spike "dust" before her eyes...That could be traumatic. But, if she follows her blood... ;)

I'm not sure how much time has passed...my muse is vague on that. But there are many things that can make you old beyond one's years. I think Mouse has probably seen enough to qualify as an "old" man.

Nevertheless, it may be time to pay the piper, soon.

03/30/2007 03:00 am
Double Bind         
excellent read, thank you. seems spike plan worked. how well is still to be seen.
You are very welcome. Thank you for commenting.

03/29/2007 11:58 pm
Double Bind         
huh? gotta say i'm a little confused...i loved the chapter, but did she dust him or not? i really hope not....very anxiously awaiting more :)
Did you catch the teaser at the end? Dust is in the eye of the beholder. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
03/29/2007 10:05 pm
Double Bind         
Good chapter.Update soon.Maybe Panya and Giles can help Spike.
That's the idea. :)

03/29/2007 01:16 pm
Double Bind         
WOW...... Ok I am alittle confused but thats ok,, I have guesses but I am willing to wait... Great chapter! Please update soon!!!
Don't mean to confuse you...too much. :) Glad you're reading.

Miss Rose
03/29/2007 01:01 pm
Double Bind         
Even though I know Spike isn't dust, it was still heartbreaking to imagine him going poof. :( Loved the cryptic Spike/Panya talk at the end of the update. Great chapter. :soon:
Thanks! I'll try not to make you wait too long.

03/29/2007 12:28 pm
Double Bind         
WOW didn't expect that. Great update. That explains the old witch's determination. Wonder just how much time has passed. Excellent, hon.

Kathleen
Thanks. I made the time line vague because I didn't know how much time had passed. I think the muse will let me know soon, though.

As soon as I know, you will too.

Lou
03/29/2007 11:02 am
Double Bind         
That was quite a shocker! Great chapter, but where has Buffy gone?
Buffy isn't gone. All wiil be revealed. Don't worry.

kim
03/29/2007 10:15 am
Double Bind         
So, is the Ukesolrill just going to keep bouncing from host to host to carry out its will?

It was an illusion, his death, to protect Buffy....goodness, they had spare seconds to carry that out. And Spike was transported...?
Looks that way. Travers might get his wish after all. Think of it as a glamor, one like Tara did in "Family." But, lets hope Giles has more focus. Spike's there, but he's not seen.

Now he has to deal with the aftermath: A powerful,out-of-control entity and a young girl who has once again seen the on she loves "die" in front of her.

It's enough to make someone go insane...don't you think?

03/15/2007 10:56 am
Of Dust and Beams         
Now I'm worried. What is he planning to do that he's desperate enough to use magic for? Will Giles be able to change Althenea's mind? She's as bigoted as Buffy was for the first six years as a slayer. Very nervous about this. Thanks Wendy, great chapter.
Didn't mean to worry you...much.;) I will tell you that it is shocking, and desperate. Even he would rather not do it. Keep reading, please...:)

03/15/2007 02:44 am
Of Dust and Beams         
fine read, thank you. spike has a plan and it includes red doing magic. yeah, this will work.
I can't tell- was that sarcasm? ;) Thanks for reading.

pretty_in_fangs
03/15/2007 12:49 am
Of Dust and Beams         
I have a very bad feeling about this...
Good instincts!

kim
03/14/2007 09:13 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
WHAT DOES HE WANT WILLOW TO DO?????

Oh, dear, oh dear.....

Hee hee, Giles is still hashing it out with Althanea....
I'm not giving it away...

Lou
03/14/2007 07:25 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
Oh god what a cliffhanger!! Fabulous chapter -- Giles is excelling himself. And I hope Willow can do something before Spike ups and leaves! More soon pleeeease.
I have a strange feeling you won't want to miss what's coming next...

03/14/2007 06:36 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
oh no !!!! Whats he going to do!!! Fake is own death??? is that it??? oh boy oh boy oh boy please update soon!!! Great chapter!
;)

Miss Rose
03/14/2007 06:11 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
:( This update was so sad. I hope whatever Spike has planned works. Great chapter!
If it works it could be quite a shock.

03/14/2007 05:31 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
awwwww...so very sad and sweet...i really hope he stays with her...
I hope he does too. But, we can't always have what we want.

RandiGiles
03/14/2007 05:11 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
Oh thats just dirty pool!
Sometimes you have to be cruel...

03/14/2007 04:28 pm
Of Dust and Beams         
Got a bad feeling about what Spike is asking of Willow! Nasty Athenea, so closed minded...I wonder how she was ever able to help Willow???!!!!

Excellent
Kathleen
I'd go with that feeling if I were you. :)

03/08/2007 05:13 am
Exile         
you are evil, very evil. fortunately you are a wonderful storyteller, so evil is expected. thanks for the fine read.
:) Me...? I haven't even shown my fangs yet...

03/07/2007 03:56 pm
Exile         
no!!!! spike can't leave!!! *sigh* i guess i know why he feels like he has to, but he doesn't!! excellent chapter, love, enjoying it immensely... :)
One can never tell what Spike will do. He may have a little of his own special "magic" up his sleeve... :)

03/07/2007 03:56 pm
Exile         
What! She just got him back and he has to leave? Is Angel back after him again or is it the Council again? He can't leave her again not after she finally got him back. Gosh, what's happening? I hate this. I hope she can convince him to stay or at least go with him until they can take care of this lastest problem. Very disturbing chapter. Hope they can clear this up soon. Thanks Wendy, you know I love it.
I think part of the confusion is that, right now, I'm laying the ground for the next story. There are things I will fill in soon. And, when I do, I hope that things will be clearer for you. :) Thanks for reading.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
03/07/2007 02:54 pm
Exile         
Good chapter.Update soon.Bad Spike!
I will...and Spike is a bit overwhelmed right now. He's only doing what he thinks he has to do.

Pin
03/07/2007 02:13 pm
Exile         
Gahhhh - not again!
Not everything is as it seems...

Miss Rose
03/07/2007 01:59 pm
Exile         
Darn that Althenea and her prejudiced views! And darn Spike's vampire hearing! The glimpse into the future was really interesting, but if Mouse is an old man... then Spike must've been in that desert for a long time. Can't wait to find out how everything comes together. Great chapter!
Yeah, superpowers can be bad at times like this. Don't forget- I've only showed you glimpses. The exile may not have been long at all. So much can happen...you haven't heard Mouse tell the whole story. :)

03/07/2007 10:15 am
Exile         
No! Spike you dolt! The Slayer is always in danger.

Nice peek into the future BTW.

Wonderful update.

Kathleen
Yes, she is, and in his heart Spike knows that, he's still getting used to the soul. He may be doing the only thing he knows to do. I mean, he doesn't have a good example to show him how to deal with the soul in a healthy way.

Lou
03/07/2007 10:02 am
Exile         
I'm hoping it's not permanent exile! Spike has suffered enough.
I don't think it is. And, I think you're right, Spike has suffered much. Let's hope it gets better.

kim
03/07/2007 08:38 am
Exile         
Gah! Nooooooooooo!

This chapter is very very ominous, and I'm scared!
Things aren't always as they seem. Don't give up hope yet. ;)

03/07/2007 05:34 am
Exile         
ohhhhhhhhh!!! Great chapter!!!! I hope the ALL leave together! Snub their noses to them all!
There's always hope. But, somehow I don't think so.

02/27/2007 02:46 am
Belonging         
great read, thank you. althenea never did answer read question.
No, she didn't. Or, at least you didn't see it. But, from Giles's reaction, what do you think the answer might have been?

Lea
02/26/2007 06:41 pm
Belonging         
Oh, I am so much in love with this story. I've always loved friendship between Giles and Spike.
Keep up the Wonderful work!
Glad you like it so much. I always thought the two of them, given other circumstances, could have been good friends.

02/26/2007 02:53 pm
Belonging         
stupid stubborn witch!!! good, i'm glad they'll be heading home soon...and such a tender, passionate scene between spike and buffy...excellent work :)
It's about time! Being home can do wonders for recovery.

Lou
02/26/2007 02:49 pm
Belonging         
Lovely chapter. It's good to see what a long journey Giles has been on as well as Spike.
Thanks. They've still got a long way to go, but at least they've all started the journey.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
02/25/2007 08:52 pm
Belonging         
Good chapter.Update soon.Yay to Giles standing up to Althenea for Spike and Willow.
It's about time someone took up for Spike. Don't you think?

02/25/2007 06:52 am
Belonging         
Yup, living on the Hellmouth with this slayer and the scoobies has changed his views about good and evil. The Watchers Council know of Angel and his soul, so why are they still so black and white about everything, and Althenea still doesn't know that he has a soul? That was cute when Willow tried to interrupt him and how he wasn't going to be disturbed. So happy for him and the speech that Buffy gave him letting her know of her true feelings. Are they a threat to the Council? Is the Council looking for them now that Trevor has been killed? You just haven't talked about it since their escape. Thanks Wendy, another wonderful chapter.
They know about Angel's curse, and that's exactly why they're so black abd white. After all, this is a vampire...to them Spike is just like him- evil even with the soul. And, in "real time" Spike hasn't been "escaped " all that long...but don't worry the "Old Council" will be showing its ugly self soon enough...:)

02/25/2007 05:32 am
Belonging         
GO GILES!!!!!!

Great Chapter! Thank you!
You're very welcome.

kim
02/25/2007 04:33 am
Belonging         
Is she sticking to her view even after learning that Spike has his soul? After everything? Talk about dogmatic!!!

Well, if they want to leave soon, they need to go tell the lovebirds before they get too indecent. And Buffy finally knows what real kinship is...

Oh, if I may point out a typo...you have "His hands wondered to her hair", where I'm sure you meant "wandered"...just a slip of the keys.
Typo is fixed...but "wondered" kinda works too, doesn't it? :)

As for Althenea, some people are just stubborn. When you think of Althenea, think canon Giles. It looked like he was all enlightened, but as it turned out--not so much.

Miss Rose
02/25/2007 03:39 am
Belonging         
Awww... The Spuffy interaction was sweet. :) And the Giles/Althenea confrontation was great, I loved how Giles did the Spike eyebrow lift when he was telling off Althenea. :eyebrows: Fantastic chapter! :D
Thanks! Could it be that Giles is feeling a bit more at ease with his darker side? :) I love shades of grey, i really do.

02/17/2007 05:31 am
The Guardians of Light         
nice job, red. very good chapter, thank you.
:) Thank you for reading.

02/17/2007 02:36 am
The Guardians of Light         
yes!! go willow!! i'm so glad she brought up that point!!! and it worries me to think that the people teaching willow and trying to help her recover feel that way...poor spike...the glimpse into rachel's life was lovely and touching...excellent work, love :)
Willow is finally growing up isn't she? And, evolution *was * hardest on the dinosaurs.

pretty_in_fangs
02/15/2007 03:48 pm
The Guardians of Light         
Hee hee. Go willow.
:)

Dar
02/14/2007 04:14 pm
The Guardians of Light         
Hope Althenea is brought up to speed and can answer Willow's question. Right after someone smacks her right between the eyes with the truth. Great Chapter
Do you think Giles is up to the job?

DeanSamWinchesterfan
02/14/2007 02:59 pm
The Guardians of Light         
Good chapter.Update soon.Yay Willow!This is my second day off this week as we're currently in day two of a bad winter storm.It hasn't snowed this bad since literally '93.I can't remember '93 as I was only four, but it seems as bad as '93.We have inches,freezing rain,and more snow on top of that.I think we're getting tomorrow off too.My dad had to shovel the roof this morning because that was leaking,and it hasn't done that since '93 either.It's so pretty out there.
Thanks, and I hope you stay warm. :)

Miss Rose
02/14/2007 02:09 pm
The Guardians of Light         
I liked how Giles was defending his uncle Spike, and Willow could've picked a better time to interrupt, her question was inspired... can't wait to find out what kind of response she gets. Great chapter!
Happy Valentine's Day! :)
Isn't it nice to see the wagons circling around Spike?

02/14/2007 10:20 am
The Guardians of Light         
Why is Althenea being such a bitch all of a sudden? She should know by now that Spike isn't a threat and he has a soul! Like the flash back to Rachel's life and the brother that loved her. Great chapter Wendy, thanks.
It wasn't all the sudden, and I think it's mpre likely that someone that doesn't know all that Spike has done, and been through, would be more cautious. At least it makes more sense than Giles's reggression on the show. And, did I say that Althenea knows that Spike has a soul? :)

Thanks for reading!

Lou
02/14/2007 10:04 am
The Guardians of Light         
Way to go Willow!!
Yep, 'bout time, don't you think?

02/14/2007 06:14 am
The Guardians of Light         
Go Willow. Excellent point. Glad to see more of this story.
Thanks, and I'm glad you're reading.

kim
02/14/2007 04:08 am
The Guardians of Light         
Ooo, smackdown on Althanea!!!

Love your flashbacks.
Yeah, it may not be flashy, but I think the gang will *choose * to leave rather than be thrown out. If you take my meaning. ;)

nmcil
06/07/2007 05:17 pm
Something New         
“because I’d left mine behind..."
this entire section is so wonderful -

great chapter - so very much enjoying this work - I like reading long pieces best and this is one of the best -
Thank you! It means so much that I was able to affect you in even a small way. :) I hope you will continue to enjoy the story as it unfolds.

Thanks again for reading.

02/04/2007 07:12 am
Something New         
that was so incredibly tender and sweet...loved it, brought tears to my eyes...to think of such a loving creature as spike, never to have experienced real love for himself...great job with this chapter, can't wait for more :)
Glad I did it right. I always thought Spike was a softie, and the reason he was angry had a lot more to do with a lack of love than a pair of fangs.

02/04/2007 04:45 am
Something New         
beautiful read, thank you.
You're very welcome!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
02/03/2007 07:13 pm
Something New         
Good chapter.Update soon.Aww to Spike warming Buffy up.
Thanks!

02/03/2007 04:25 pm
Something New         
Great chapter! can't wait for the next update,, it feels like the story is coming to a close but it was such a good story i just want it to go on and on!
This part is nearly over, but the story isn't done. There's just too much to tell...:)

02/03/2007 07:36 am
Something New         
What a marvelous chapter. Truly beautiful. The way your words describe the love that people can feel when it's a true love, was amazing. Thanks Wendy. How many more before this is done?
Thanks! :) There isn't much of this story left. But the adventure will continue. The implications are too big for just one story.

Miss Rose
02/03/2007 04:26 am
Something New         
I'm so happy Spike and Buffy are in such a good place. I just love how they openly they're communicating with each other, it was especially nice to see Buffy opening up. Wonderful chapter! :)
You think Buffy might actually be happy...?

02/03/2007 12:44 am
Something New         
Awwwww lovely interlude! They're finally on the same page emotionally. Excellent.

Kathleen
Thank you! It's about time something went right for those two, don't you think?

kim
02/02/2007 10:44 pm
Something New         
You paint emotions....

Awww, young love.....sure, the endorphins are heady now, but will these two still be able to *act* in love when the infatuation fades, and things get tough?

I look forward to the prophesy being addressed.
Thank you very much! And don't worry, it will be dealt with. But, that's another story...:)

02/03/2007 06:59 am
Fire         
Don't know how I missed this one but I'm glad I did now that you finished like this. What he felt for Cecily wasn't true love, not like this. Got to read the next chapter, thanks Wendy, it was so beautiful.
Thank you very much. I may not do fight scenes well, but I think I get emotion right. :)

01/29/2007 12:47 am
Fire         
thank you for a very good read.
Thanks

kim
01/28/2007 07:35 am
Fire         
Oh, interesting....to make the distinction now, at this moment...

And yeah, Dawn definitely doesn't need to break in on that!
I think that would be the only time Spike would actually feel any different. On the one hand, he has this shame hanging over him that is a reminder of why he got the soul in the first place; and then he has this need that he can't explain, it's enough to make you cry. I know I would, if it were my first time...:)

Miss Rose
01/28/2007 02:12 am
Fire         
Absolutely wonderful, I loved this chapter! Nice work FMS! :)
Thank you, very much. :)

Lou
01/28/2007 12:30 am
Fire         
Epiphany -- look how moving that was!
And, unlike others Buffy's had, I'll make sure this one sticks! :)

Lou
01/28/2007 12:19 am
Fire         
Just beautiful -- superior writing. An epipahany for both of them.
Thank you. :)

01/28/2007 12:17 am
Fire         
WOW yes...what we never got on screen. Spike and expressed love after the soul. Nice and powerful here. Yup, this is the sort of healing they both need.

Kathleen
I was hoping for something like this from ME's writers...so I wrote my own. So glad you felt it too. I was hoping to evoke emotion. What would it be like for Spike? I don't know, but I think I came close.

01/27/2007 11:59 pm
Fire         
oh how very beautiful and intense and utterly lovely!!! i loved this chapter, so gorgeously emotional and tender and real...i love it :)
Thank you so much. This was so hard to write, the emotions were powerful for me too. I'm glad you liked it so much.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
01/27/2007 08:02 pm
Fire         
Good chapter.Update soon.The soul's finally starting to hit Spike.How's your weather?It's been snowing since Sunday and will continue to here until at least Friday.Yay for two hour delays!
The soul had to hit sometime. Unlike winter here, that seems to have passed by. It's surprisingly warm, all things considered.

01/27/2007 07:54 pm
Fire         
Great Chapter! Can't wait for the next update! MORE MORE MORE!!!!
Thanks...and you know,*smirking as my Spike-shaped muse whispers in my ear*, the waiting makes it so much better, Luv.

jo
01/27/2007 07:27 pm
Fire         
very good chapter, can't wait for more.
Thanks :)

kim
01/17/2007 08:55 am
Wave         
Series?! I'm not surprised...this feels like you have lots to tell. Woot!
Oh, you know I do, Love. *smirk*

kim
01/17/2007 03:03 am
Wave         
Still much to talk about...and he needs a good feed for that face, and every other bruise that's not showing.

I didn't think you'd have him dust Angel. Funny that Buffy would have this time.

I'm sure that prophecy's coming back up again?
Yeah, they do, chief topic would be Buffy's "easy" acceptence of her demon half. She's always had it, but now she knows. That can really mess with someone's head. Some of this saga will need to be told in the next story in the series. Yes, I said series. ;) I'm starting to outline it now- it should be fun...who's with me? :)

01/17/2007 02:00 am
Wave         
buffy final said the right thing. wonderful read, thank you.
I know! It's about time, don't you think?

DeanSamWinchesterfan
01/16/2007 11:44 pm
Wave         
Good chapter.Update soon.Aww to sweet Spuffy.
gee...thanks:)

01/16/2007 09:42 pm
Wave         
beautiful, incredible imagery....very lovely chapter...love how they handled the mutual revelations...excellent job :)
Thank you. I'm so glad you're enjoying the story.:)

01/16/2007 03:21 pm
Wave         
Lovely update..looking forward to more soon.
Thanks...More soon.

Lou
01/16/2007 01:04 pm
Wave         
Wonderful -- at last Spike can make his new start.
This is just the beginning, Love...:)

01/16/2007 08:07 am
Wave         
Yay! Lovely chapter. Buffy being proud of Spike and seeing him for the unique being he always has been is a joy. Excellent.

Kathleen
As far as Buffy's opinion is concerned, Spike has just begun to step out of the shadows. Glad you enjoyed the chapter.

Miss Rose
01/16/2007 08:04 am
Wave         
What a beautifully written chapter, the Spuffy interaction was absolutley wonderful! Like Buffy I probably would've dusted Angel too, but i'm not surprised one bit that Spike spared him... i'm kinda worried there might be consequences later on though. Can't wait to find out what happens next! Fantastic chapter! :)
Thanks...and you are very smart. :)

01/16/2007 07:33 am
Wave         
Of all the things she could've said to him, 'I'm proud of you' has to be one that shows just how aware she is of how he's changed.
Yeah...ain't it cool?

01/16/2007 06:56 am
Wave         
Yeah Giles, protecting his uncle. We may have wanted him dusted but I have a feeling it was more then just making him suffer, he is family too. Maybe now he believes her. Great chapter Wendy, thanks for the update.
You might be right. ;) Love 'im or hate 'im, Angelus is family. And, we all know how Spike treats those he sees as family.

pretty_in_fangs
01/16/2007 06:32 am
Wave         
Wow. I love that last sentence.
Thanks. :)

01/07/2007 07:58 am
Sounds of Life         
oh that was excellent!! very good fight scene, so glad that spike kicked angel's butt!! this story is amazing, love :)
Thanks for saying so!

01/06/2007 10:27 pm
Sounds of Life         
excellent read, thank you. panya telling the tale and the last paragraph lgihten the somber tone wonderfully.
Thanks! I worked hard to balance the tone. Did I learn well from M.E.? Or, maybe I just wore out my dvds. :P

01/06/2007 08:35 pm
Sounds of Life         
Wonderful and just the right amount of emphasis on the battle. Love that last paragraph to death....so very Spike!

Kathleen
Thank you! It's very difficult to write combat, but I knew I had to have some of it. I was afraid it wasn't enough, though. Glad you liked it!

01/06/2007 12:30 pm
Sounds of Life         
Finally!!! Hope he didn't dust him, left him to know who the better vamp was, and just who it was that Buffy loved. Liked that Panya was telling the story to his friend's back home about Simba and his great battle against the buku, nice touch to the story. Thanks for not making this a cliffie and torturing us. Much appreciated. Maybe now he'll bite her? Claim her as his own now that he know's how she feel's and Angelus is out of the picture for good. He's a champion and deserves his reward. Fantastic chapter, FMS. thanks.
The story angle gives you hope, doesn't it? And as far as Angel being dust...? Think. Which way would be a worse punishment? Find that answer, and that's the way Spike went. :)

Deb
01/06/2007 10:26 am
Sounds of Life         
Enjoyed your update. Glad he made it back safe.
Glad you liked it.

Miss Rose
01/06/2007 06:48 am
Sounds of Life         
SQEEEEE!!! :cheer: I loved the chapter!!! Spike's dialogue during the fight was so spot on, nice work! Can't wait to find out where things go from here! :)
Glad you liked it. Maybe Angelus does have a mirror after all. You know, like the one in "Snow White?" Someone's got to tell him he's not the fairest in the land! :P

01/06/2007 04:01 am
Sounds of Life         
GREAT CHAPTER!!!!!! i am on bated breath to find out what happens next!!!!!!
Thanks! :)

Dar
01/06/2007 03:15 am
Sounds of Life         
First Thank You for not making me wait for the next chapter to get that knock on the door. Loved how you slipped Panya in there. Great Chapter
I was going to. But, then I wised up! :P Thank goodness, huh?

DeanSamWinchesterfan
01/06/2007 03:00 am
Sounds of Life         
Good chapter.Update soon.Did the sunlight kill Angel?
Don't really know...:)

Lou
01/06/2007 02:52 am
Sounds of Life         
This was a fight Spike had to win on his own - and he did so, magnificently! Really well done.
Thank you! :)

01/06/2007 02:50 am
Sounds of Life         
YAY! Now, please tell us...angel dust?

*grin* Not sure if I've told you or not but I've been archiving every chapter as you post it so I can keep it forever and ever. :)
Maybe. :) And, no you didn't. I hope it holds your interest that long...:P

kim
01/06/2007 02:50 am
Sounds of Life         
Oh, and the Panya storyteller bit was really cute.
I thought so too...:P

kim
01/06/2007 02:49 am
Sounds of Life         
Well...hmm...did he really kill Angel? I have a feeling Spike might want him to learn a lesson first.....though maybe vengeance was too insistent.

Yed, he got his armor...looks damn good in it, too.

He really got beat that bad? Seemed he was winning pretty easily...
I didn't show you the whole fight...dramatic tension, ya know? :D

Lou
12/30/2006 01:32 am
Taking It Back         
Wish she'd tell him now!
Me too!

Dar
12/28/2006 02:53 am
Taking It Back         
Buffy's timing is right on track as usual. Though her hearts in the right place. Great Chapter
It sure is, isn't it? :P

12/28/2006 02:26 am
Taking It Back         
well that could have gone a lot worse...he took that very wrong to begin with, but i think he at least understands how she meant it...anothe excellent chapter, waiting for the next with eager anticipation :)
I guess, with Spike, as with most of us, it is the thought that counts.

12/27/2006 07:46 pm
Taking It Back         
I can really see him turning Buffy down at this point in time. Maybe later she can sweet talk the silly boy. Excellent update.

Kathleen
Sweetness comes later...Sweet as jam as a matter of fact... *wink*

DeanSamWinchesterfan
12/27/2006 05:32 pm
Taking It Back         
Good chapter.Update soon.I love that Buffy mashed two words together.I do that sometimes on accident though(Once it was hockey and soccer,it ended up coming out as hocker).
:P The story od Buffy's life: "Open mouth, insert foot."

Miss Rose
12/27/2006 01:11 pm
Taking It Back         
That was a good idea Buffy had, but I can understand why Spike would decline her offer... after all unlike his grandsire Spike would rather dust first before he ever hurt his girl. Loved the chapter!
~ Congrats on the new nomination! :)
Thanks Rose! I'm so glad you liked the chapter. And you're right- it may be practical for him to take the blood; but, hurt Buffy? No way!

12/27/2006 08:16 am
Taking It Back         
That's an expression I've never heard before. A cross between "Yipe" and "Wow". Of course, I don't think I've ever had the need for that particular expression before, either.
And Buffy, *tell him*.
That was the best way I could think of to discribe it. Buffy's always been a little slow. But, if she does tell him, will he believe her? Hmmmm...:)

12/27/2006 08:15 am
Taking It Back         
very good read, thank you. was an excellent idea buffy, spike should have taken advantage of the blood, even if he was afraid of the effects of a claim.
Maybe...I don't think he would do that. But sometimes we don't do what we should because we want to protect the ones we love, even from ourselves.

12/27/2006 07:48 am
Taking It Back         
Wished that she might have changed his mind even if he'd just bite her and use her powerful blood to help strengthen him. He just started eating again. So excited to see what happens next. Maybe Dawn can get Willow to cast a spell over Spike to help protect him, it's been so long since he's even had a fair fight. Not since fighting for his soul. Thanks for the update, FMS.
He may still. But even in canon Spike never bit her, not even when he was weak and under a powerful influence.

kim
12/27/2006 06:16 am
Taking It Back         
Offered a claim, eh? Well, that definitely would have shaken things up, but it's not the time.....she's offering it as a battle measure, even though she does care, and Spike would only do it for marriage. Binding himself to anyone is sacred. She's still very naive.
Buffy is still very young, and Giles hasn't told her everything she needed to know. But, I don't think he counted on her falling in love with a vampire.

sirc
12/30/2006 09:33 pm
Armor         
well done :)
Thanks

Lou
12/30/2006 01:29 am
Armor         
He can do it... he can do it.
Like the little engine that could? "Ithink I can...I think I can..." or maybe, like in "Peter Pan" if we believe....:) Either way, I'm with you!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
12/26/2006 09:33 pm
Armor         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.
Will do!

pfeifferpack
12/25/2006 08:32 pm
Armor         
Wonderful Christmas Prezzie! How to say goodbye without saying goodbye.....hankie time. Can't wait for Angelus to get his butt handed to him. Lovely.

Kathleen
I am so glad you enjoy the story! And you know Angel will get his butt kicked, but it wont be easy. Might want to read with your hand over your eyes or something. :P

Miss Rose
12/25/2006 03:09 pm
Armor         
*reaches for a tissue* Spike's interactions with his loved ones were so touching It was really worrying me that Spike was practically saying goodbye, but I loved how Buffy's words changed Spike's attitude and gave him the extra strength he needed. Can't wait for the fight of the century. Great chapter!
~ Merry Christmas! ~
Thanks! The fight is in the works. It should be up very soon. And, there's a reason I didn't give a translation of what Spike said to Mouse... :)

12/25/2006 07:40 am
Armor         
I agree, with you, Angel would just be madder, even if couldn't do one thing about it, he is the great brooder. Love that he had all the love and support from everyone in the room and most of all, he know's that "He" is the one who has her heart. It no longer belongs to Angel, nothing better to go into battle with. Wonderful update, thanks for the Christmas prezzie. Merry Christmas FMS and a Happy New Year.
Merry Christmas! I think Spike just got the best gift he could ever have.

12/25/2006 07:11 am
Armor         
oh man...you had to drag it out even further, didn't you?? and here i thought i was going to see the big fight..instead you brought me to tears! another excellent chapter, lookin forward to the next :)
Yep. :) Fight's coming though, I promise.

pretty_in_fangs
12/25/2006 06:28 am
Armor         
Oh, I can't wait.
:)

kim
12/25/2006 05:29 am
Armor         
So good...Merry Christmas, hon. Thank you. You are so good at these poignant moments...
Thanks, and Merry Christmas to you too!

12/25/2006 02:56 am
Armor         
please update soon.great work. hope you have a great holiday season.
Thanks for reading! :)

DAR
12/25/2006 02:03 am
Armor         
STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THEY WILL LET HIM OUT THE DOOR ALONE. GREAT CHAPTER
We'll see...

sirc
12/30/2006 09:16 pm
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Great chapter :D
Thanks! :)

12/23/2006 11:15 pm
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Wonderful, wonderful story! I can't wait to see what happens in the 'final fight'!
I can't either. It should be good. :)

12/21/2006 07:12 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
fine read, thank you.
You're welcome.

12/21/2006 06:52 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Yup, you're right I total missed the meaning behind that. Maybe after tonight he won't be able to think of his anymore, since she's clearly not any longer. Great work.
Maybe...or maybe he'll just get madder. What do you think? :)

12/21/2006 05:49 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Oooo not good methinks! Angelus is (as the Master once implied) the most evil and cruel of them all. Naturally I am counting you your fine writing skills to get Spike out of this one. The flashback was far too believable.

Kathleen
Don't worry- I'm working on it. But the fight sequence is very hard to write. I see it all in my head first, and all I keep thinking is."Oh, that looks like it hurts!" Guess that's why the flashbacks are believable, and as draining for me as they are for you to read. Hope you'll stick with me though. :)

12/21/2006 04:00 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Glad you called him Angelus and not Angel, because as we all have learned along the way it has most always been Angelus. So proud of Buffy for letting him know that she does love him and she is indeed "yesterday's girl". Only worried that he's strong enough, only started eating again two or three day's ago. This should be good. Surprised that Angelus hasn't smelled Buffy yet but if he's this upset then guess he's going on pure fury. Fantastic chapter, thanks.
Don't know if you caught it...but that "Other" vamp, the one playing "The Big Bad Wolf"...? He knows Buffy's in there- and that she's alive. He just *doesn't care*! To him she's property. Property that Spike stole. And, to his mind, Spike has to pay for that.

12/21/2006 12:48 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
oh wow...i can feel the tension, getting nervous about the outcome of this fight...but spike has to do this, you're right...if he doesn't, angelus' control will always haunt him...another excellent update, looking forward to more :)
Just call me cliffie girl. :P

DeanSamWinchesterfan
12/20/2006 11:16 pm
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Huh!I guess it's bad Angelus.I wonder how he lost his soul.Is this set in season four of Angel or did he lose his soul another way?I've been wanting to see a story where Angel's dream in which he loses his soul in the fourth season of Angel was true, because I think that'd be cool.
Not following ATS canon. But if you must...:) Remember how grumpy Angel was after he was "Deep Sixed?" Pretty close to Angelus I'd say. That is, if you buy that Angel and Angelus are two different "people." Which, I do not.

kim
12/20/2006 08:38 pm
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
OOOOh!!! It comes down to this! Oh, you have to update again right away! Has he fed enough for this? Is he healed enough? Buffy's right, Angel doesn't play fair, not when he's this mad, not when he's this close to Angelus.

Love the image of Giles backed by Panya and Dawn. Hee!

'Course, the coven could make Angel go poof in an instant with just a word, if they got the order.
Good questions, all. And, although the coven could dust Angel with just a thought...would they? Personaly, I never saw Angel as a good guy- not for a *second*. But that's just me, I guess...

Dar
12/20/2006 08:24 pm
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Can't wait to see if Spike has a hard time getting out that door. Great Chapter
He might need a little incouragement...

Lou
12/20/2006 09:53 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
So dramatic -- it's like High Noon! Great chapter.
That's what I had in mind. Glad you liked it. :)

12/20/2006 06:27 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Just wondering--won't Angel stop if he sees Buffy? Or is he going to be an a** about--oh, never mind, it's Angel. Yeah, he's going to make life miserable for as many people as he possibly can.
The thing is...it's *not about* Buffy.

12/20/2006 06:11 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
nooo lol can't leave it there. evil cliff hangers. please hurry with the next chapter.
LOl...posting as fast as the muse lets me. :P

pretty_in_fangs
12/20/2006 04:21 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Oh, this has me nervous. But I can see where Spike will need that to truly reclaim his pride and sense of self-worth.
Yep, it is his fight...for his pride. :)

Miss Rose
12/20/2006 04:18 am
Olly, Olly Oxen Free         
Yikes! Angelus on the loose is so not of the good. I loved how Giles and Buffy wanted to help out, but this is definitely Spike's fight. *bites nails* Can't wait to find out what happens next!!! Great chapter! :soon:
Looks like there's gonna be a showdown.

sirc
12/30/2006 09:09 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
well done :)
Thanks for reading, Sirc

12/18/2006 01:07 am
Yesterday's Girl         
So great to hear that this is not over for them, they've come so and they deserve to at least try to have an happy ending. With what Buffy knows now about Angel and that Spike has the love of "his girls" and Giles behind him, they don't need Angel! Send the "Big Rat" home with his tail between his legs!
Oh, the fun's just beginning, Love...

12/17/2006 09:48 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
Wow! that had to be the most heartfelt conversation that Buffy's ever had with him and He had to go and spoil it but I love the name of the chapter and where this is still going between them. I can't wait for the next chapter. Now I understand why Angel's there but These next few chapters are going to be dynamite! Hope you'll have time during the busy holiday's to post. Eargerly awaiting your next chapter, thanks FMS.
I will be updatong sooner than you think.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
12/17/2006 07:00 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
Good chapter.Update soon.Bad Angel.
Yes, he is very bad

12/17/2006 08:22 am
Yesterday's Girl         
very good read, thank you. can they all get a shot in at angel?
Maybe...

pretty_in_fangs
12/17/2006 04:52 am
Yesterday's Girl         
Hmmm... I think now would be the perfect time for her to go out and bitch-slap Angel. Who's with me?
* Raises hand* Me...and I'm taking names of all the others in line behind me. But let's let Spike have the first punch, shall we? :)

kim
12/17/2006 03:51 am
Yesterday's Girl         
Yes, Joyce was alive then. I was trying to make the point of anyone who'd been a resident in the house being able to do it, not just the owner...sorry if that was unclear. Dawn's residence there counting for something is what I was trying to get at....like I said, thinking too much. :P
*Rubs kim's head* Does your head hurt? :P

12/16/2006 11:41 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
oh no!!! poor spike!! buffy needs to get right down there and tell angel off, make him see how wrong he is! but i dont think it'll do much good...staking's what angel really needs! excellent chaper, love :)
But this is Spike's fight...isn't it?

Lou
12/16/2006 04:36 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
Oooh now come on -- you can't leave me hanging there!!! Just at the point of reconciliation too! You're evil!!!!!
Sorry- this is just as nerve-wraking for me. Is this Buffy's fight, or is it Spike's? Have to read on and find out.

kim
12/16/2006 12:15 pm
Yesterday's Girl         
Oh, man...the side-effects of a little death...Well, can't completely blame Angel for making assumptions. He's been out of the loop for so long...though, he really should know Spike better than that...he wouldn't want to see it, anyway, though.

So, with the house, you're going off the name on the deed is who can give/rescind invitations? Buffy did disinvites back when it was Joyce's, though....it's still Dawn's home, too, so would any vamp have been able to come in? Sorry...thinking out loud.

Very important conversation between Buffy and Spike. At least they got the question out of the way before being rudely interrupted. Buffy better hurry down there and prove she's not dead, again. I'm sure Giles will be throwing open the door at any minute and giving Angel whatfor. And it took Angel a full month to trace them here? Getting slow in his old age.
Yeah, Angel is a little clueless. And, I think he's *hoping* that Spike's little bit of humanity has been squashed, like his. Sorry, to disappoint, Angel...:)

As for the invite thing...if I remember correctly, in canon, Buffy did he invite/disinvite stuff while Mom was living. Either way, I gave you a hint as to how I thought it might work a few chapters back.

And, what to say about Angel? He's reverted to type? Also, remember he can't take an airplane and ships are sorta slow.

12/16/2006 07:56 am
Yesterday's Girl         
And here comes Angel to ruin all everyone's work. Because everything that goes wrong in Angel's worldview is *someone else's* fault.
Leave it to Angel...Don't you wish that he would just go away?

Tamara
12/16/2006 03:46 am
Yesterday's Girl         
Angel really has crap timing doesn't he?
He sure does! :)

Hannah
12/16/2006 02:38 am
Yesterday's Girl         
wow, intense chapter....please update soon, i'm anxious. thanks.
Don't worry, more is coming soon.

Miss Rose
12/16/2006 02:16 am
Yesterday's Girl         
Whoa! What an exciting cliffhanger, i'll be on the edge of my seat waiting for the next update. Great chapter!
Thanks! :)

12/16/2006 02:07 am
Yesterday's Girl         
can't wait to see what happens next.
I can't either...

sirc
12/30/2006 09:03 pm
Fools' Gold         
great chapter :)
:)

12/17/2006 09:19 pm
Fools' Gold         
So glad that Buffy knows about Angel now and just how much Spike that been helping her as well for these past years, so I doubt that they would call him for help, so must be Angel just butting in were he's not welcome anymore. Yes Giles was foolish but he can rectify that now. Spike's capacity to love and forgive is he's greatest strength. They are all fortunate for that. Another fantastic chapter, FMS, thanks.
The next few chapters and the series(there is another story in this series getting ready to start, btw. :) )hinge on how Buffy- and Spike, deals with Angel.

12/09/2006 10:19 pm
Fools' Gold         
excellent read, thank you. giles is innately dense. it takes him much longer than a teenage girl to see the truth.
Yeah, you think he'd know better.

12/09/2006 05:49 pm
Fools' Gold         
Even on the show Giles was blind to all he should have seen and noticed about Spike.

Nice update. Look forward to that talking to (and maybe an actual smack down of the big rat in time *G*).

Kathleen
There is none so blind...and there will be some kind of confrontation. This is turning into a serial fic. Hope you're up to it.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
12/09/2006 03:55 pm
Fools' Gold         
Good chapter.Update soon.I love that Buffy knows.Dawnie and Spike time,yay!
Spike and Dawnie time is always good.

Dar
12/09/2006 02:47 pm
Fools' Gold         
As much as I like the drama I also like the lighter touch of laughter. Great Chapter
Laughter is the best medicine... :)

12/09/2006 07:14 am
Fools' Gold         
it's good to see spike laughing...dawn's friendship will be good for him in that way...his history is so very interesting to read about...looking forward to your next update :)
Laughter is very healing, and God knows they all need healing right now. I'm glad you like the backstory- I always wondered what made Spike tick. So, here's what I think does.

Miss Rose
12/09/2006 07:04 am
Fools' Gold         
I'm glad Giles didn't hold anything back in his talk with Buffy, and I liked how Panya put his opinion into the mix.
The scene between Spike and Dawn was so refreshing, I love that Spike has laughter in his life again. Great chapter!
Holding back is what got them all into trouble to start with and Giles in in shock. His world is changing so fast...he's just talking it through. And, Spike and Dawn have both bonded in a way neither Slayer nor Watcher can touch. I thought I'd show that Spike's natural instict is to be tender- if we haven't already seen it before.

kim
12/09/2006 05:23 am
Fools' Gold         
Ooo, more good stuff! Yay! So good to hear him laughing.

Ah, the foolish ones are realizing how foolish they actually were. Never forget it.
Sometimes people can't see the forest for the trees. But, I think they're seeing now. Let's hope they don't forget. :)

12/18/2006 12:42 am
Catch         
Sorry, sweetie, but I missed this one and now it makes more sense. Gotta love the young ones, Panya hit the nail on the head. Don't understand what made Angel think that Buffy was really dead and not just gone if he knew about Spike and his Soul. A little confused here, but could be just the meds.
This is one of the few times the date tags are important. There's one on "Paradigm Shift" that connects with this one. And, Panya does have a way of putting things that is just wonderful, isn't it. :P

12/02/2006 03:12 am
Catch         
excellent chapter, thank you. “Buku” indeed.
:)

Dar
12/01/2006 02:01 am
Catch         
Big Rat meet Big cat...Great chapter
Thanks

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/30/2006 10:00 pm
Catch         
Good chapter.Update soon.Stupid Angel!You think he would try to help.
Have you wver heard that, at times, people are nicer to strangers than their own family? Well, Angel is an example of that. Don't worry- more is coming soon.

11/30/2006 04:17 pm
Catch         
lol...love that .. "giant rat"...can't stand angel, though, how could he be so insensitive and unfeeling? he's been right where spike is, only spike's there of his own choice....another excellent chapter, pet, looking forward to more :)
Glad you liked it! As for Angel- when was he ever sensitive to Spike?

Sirc
11/30/2006 03:36 pm
Catch         
Angel says that he won't forgive Spike, but when *he* won't get any he's all suprised and puppy-dog-eyed. The soul in him makes him good, but on Spike (who he happens to have a grudge for) it doesn't atone for his past crimes. That is so like Angel.
Of course, there are fics where he is more-or-less reasonable, but when pictured like this, you nailed him on the head :D

Also, Giant Rat? :P *laughs hysterically with Spike*

Loved it! :D
I think this is more of a competition, or maybe it's envy; remember a little thing called a Shanhu? Then there's this other prophecy that he knows nothing about...yet, that he's in the running for, too. So, we'll soon see...

11/30/2006 03:32 pm
Catch         
I'd say more rabid ferret personnaly *G*. Excellent update (and a happy reader able to comment at the moment!). Hope Buffy has the chance to put the ponce in his place LOL.


Kathleen
Yeah, but there's no Swahili word for what he *really* is! Let's hope Buffy gives him a good trouncing!

pretty_in_fangs
11/30/2006 02:11 pm
Catch         
Oh, good! We can name Angel after his food. After all, you are what you eat!
:)

Miss Rose
11/30/2006 01:19 pm
Catch         
Angel's attitude makes me want to grab something pointy and use it on him, talk about the pot calling the kettle back.
I love that Panya seems to have picked up Spike's habit of giving people nicknames, and what a terrific choice he made when he dubbed Angel a giant rat. Fantastic chapter!
When you spend months looking after someone things tend to rub off. I'm right there with you. Don't you just want to throttle the "Poof?" Maybe...:)

Lou
11/30/2006 10:19 am
Catch         
How come Angel thinks Spikes so incredibly evil? Have I forgotten something? He's got a cheek anyway! Grrr.
I think it may be because he's looking for Spike to be as Evil as he is. That's all I can figure.

kim
11/30/2006 10:16 am
Catch         
Ah, the irony...LOL. He's the giant rat...that fed on rats! ROFL....
Well, of course he wouldn't help. Not like this. If Spike showed up on Angel's doorstep, and his team took up the compassionate stance...maybe. But he basically has to be guilted into it. Go halfway around the world to help? No way.

Figured Spike's version of 'low blood sugar' would hit any minute. He's been way too starved for too long. At least he's eating, for now.
Yeah, Angel's not going to help unless he can crow about it. And, yeah, when there are no reserves the body, and the demon will go into survival mode and overide the soul's sensibillities.

11/30/2006 08:31 am
Catch         
Lovely chapter. I'm glad to see all of them making such progress. Nice to see Angel living up to his reputation and I love the new nickname. Looking forward to seeing how things go next.
Angel will always live down to his rep. I think you will enjoy the rest of the story.

12/17/2006 09:03 pm
Adding Up         
Thanks for Dawn's idea, what else could he say and in classic Spike at that. Now I think I see why you're bringing in Angel, he's already gone throught this and they think he might help Spike as well, but personally I know he's just going to be the same bastard he alway's is and make this about him and Buffy and not Spike and what he might need. It had been so long since I started reading this that I forgot that Giles and Spike were friends when he left to get his soul. Right? Getting caught up, only a few more to go. Wonderful read, thanks.
You'd think Angel would help, wouldn't you? No, Giles and Spike weren't friends. But, after seeing how devastated Spike was in Africa, Giles thought of all they'd both been through and his compassion kicked in.

sirc
11/29/2006 06:14 am
Adding Up         
Loved it :)
Thanks...again! :)

Lou
11/28/2006 02:29 pm
Adding Up         
This tale is turning out to be quite a tearjerker, so well done. Good on Dawn too!
Someone has to let Spike know that he was loved, and would have been, even before the soul. I hope you can stay for the whole ride. It's gonna get wild- I think...:)

pretty_in_fangs
11/26/2006 03:49 am
Adding Up         
Yay! Dawn to the rescue.
Yep! It's about time, don't you think? :)

11/23/2006 08:24 pm
Adding Up         
I loved Giles letting Spike know that he wanted to get to know him as family. The sweetness and love behind Dawn and Buffy with the rings, telling Spike that he meant more to them then just the soul, them asking Spike if he would have them, and his response brought me to tears. Thank you for such wonderful updates.
It's what I would do if I had Dawn's knowledge of what was important to Spike. I'm so glad you're feeling the emotions.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/23/2006 07:36 pm
Adding Up         
Good chapter.Update soon.The girls are so sweet.
Do you think Spike would care so much about them if they weren't?

11/23/2006 03:23 pm
Adding Up         
Yes, Dawn would be the one to know the best way to make a point to a broken yet stubborn vampire. Well done (and Happy Thanksgiving, hon.)

Kathleen
Dawn is good for something. See? :)

Miss Rose
11/23/2006 01:21 pm
Adding Up         
The Spike, Dawn, Buffy scene was so sweet. Loved the chapter! :)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Glad you liked it. Happy Thanksgiving to you too! :)

Catrine
11/23/2006 11:30 am
Adding Up         
So nice..love it!
Thanks!

Tamara
11/23/2006 06:24 am
Adding Up         
Great chapter. I love the rings.
:)

11/23/2006 05:52 am
Adding Up         
well done dawn. wonderful read, thank you.
Yeah, sometimes the Nibblet get it right. :)

11/23/2006 04:08 am
Adding Up         
awww...poor spike, that chapter brought tears to my eyes for him, poor boy, so very shattered...hopefully dawn and buffy can reassure him now :)
I'm so glad the emotions came through for you. Keep reading. Please? :)

kim
11/23/2006 04:08 am
Adding Up         
Aww, that was cute, after everything else...I so love this story. Thanks for updating before the holiday, and Happy Thanksgiving.
You are welcome. Thanks for reading.

12/17/2006 08:45 pm
Paradigm Shift         
What a fascinating coincidence that the ring he gave her was a skull ring and it's siginficance to Victorian mourning rites. Love it! Love that this Dawn still loves him so much, hated how she felt about him in S7. Just hate Angel so I'm not commenting on him, but the fact that he's here must mean that you're bringing him back into the picture at some point and I can't wait for that confrontation with Giles, now that he knows what Angelus did to his grandmother. That will be worth the wait. Wait til Buffy finda out, I'm guessing that Dawn caught that part of the conversation as well. So much more to explore, wonderful, thank you.
Yeah, I hate that too. And the ring thing-that was a big "a-ha" for me. I started to wonder if there was more compassion in the "Big Bad" persona than we thought. Perhaps "Spike" was grieving for something that made him feel empty, and that was, at least part of the reason he sought "it" out? That's just my thought.

sirc
11/29/2006 06:07 am
Paradigm Shift         
Well done :)
Thanks :)

11/23/2006 08:17 pm
Paradigm Shift         
Angel is just as self-involved as ever and his musing shows that his feelings towards Buffy are like those towards a piece of property rather then those of a man in love. I love how important Spike is to Dawn and the flash-back of her giving him back his ring and letting him know that Buffy had held onto it. I am also glad that she is getting Buffy up going, doing something to help Spike, rather then letting her continue crying with worry over him.
Yes, Angel is self-involved; and to a certain degree so is Buffy. Angel's attitude will come into play later. At least Buffy has Dawn to help her focus. Angel- not so much.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/19/2006 07:32 pm
Paradigm Shift         
Good chapter.Update soon.Aw,she kept the ring.
Yep, she did. :)

fallen_angel
11/19/2006 07:27 pm
Paradigm Shift         
Dawnie's gotta a plan? Let's hopre hers work better than Spike's.
Spike's emotional health is as important to Dawn as breathing. So yeah...it should work.

11/19/2006 05:32 pm
Paradigm Shift         
I love that Dawn is a bit less bratty and a lot more perceptive--I think the monks that created her (in canon) never had siblings that paid attention or idolized their big brother.
I always thought "Dawn" was waay too bratty. If my little sister, (whose name just happens to be Dawn) acted like she did- the parental units would not have been happy. I think this "Dawn" is much more true.

Lou
11/19/2006 02:25 pm
Paradigm Shift         
Good work, Dawn. It sounds like Spike is going to need some firm foundations if the big I AM is going to stick his oar in!
Time to start building what's been torn down before "Hurricane Angel" starts blowin'! :)

Miss Rose
11/19/2006 01:17 pm
Paradigm Shift         
After reading Angel's musings i'm thinking Ripper should definitely come out and knock Angel down a peg or two. I loved how this update touched on Dawn and Spike's friendship. Wonderful chapter as always!
Remember who Ripper's uncle is...and think-how would he handle The Brooding One.

11/19/2006 06:54 am
Paradigm Shift         
very good read, thank you. dawn to the aid of her best friend and her sister. and angel lost in the vast vaciuty of his own mind. thanks again.
I had aa t-shirt once that said, "Legend in my Own Mind." Think it would fit Angel? :)

pretty_in_fangs
11/19/2006 06:18 am
Paradigm Shift         
Oooh... Isn't Dawn the clever one?
Well someone has to be! :)

11/19/2006 05:46 am
Paradigm Shift         
poor spike...i love how dawn is taking matters into her own hands here...excellent chapter, pet :)
Dawn always understood Spike. Maybe she can teach Buffy a little something?

kim
11/19/2006 05:39 am
Paradigm Shift         
Reviewed over at SR just now, but I had to say how much I loved Dawn's POV here, too.

Very important that Spike knows it's not just the soul that allows Buffy's love now. That's not going to help his confidence much.

Things moved on from the Hellmouth, with the Slayer known to be away? That won't last long...there are always dumb people to roam around SunnyD at night.
Maybe Sunnydale is deserted. Or maybe Angel is just too self-absorbed to notice anyone but himself? Which is more likely...well...

12/17/2006 08:25 pm
Fight or Flight         
Pure Angelus, the sick bastard! but I love your version of Spike's family, with Rachel and Giles being part of it. Wish Joss would have thought of it and added it to the story line as well. Even if he had to change season 7 to do it. Well Spike may not know what he is but he has alot of people who love and care about to help him find out. Great work, thanks.
Puts a whole new spin on the hatred, doesn't it? I was kind of surprised that M.E. didn't go this way. That's what fic is for...:)

11/15/2006 05:25 am
Fight or Flight         
the answers were painful and honest. very good read, thank you.
It was hard for me to write, so I'm glad the emotions came through.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/14/2006 10:15 pm
Fight or Flight         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.
Okay :)

Lou
11/13/2006 11:10 pm
Fight or Flight         
Powerful stuff. A terrific chapter.
Thank you so much!

sirc
11/11/2006 06:27 pm
Fight or Flight         
well done :)
Thank you

11/11/2006 05:52 pm
Fight or Flight         
Good flashback (I can actually access BSV!!!). I imagine it will take a lot of effort to keep Giles from taking a trip to LA with a nicely sharpened piece of wood! Poor Rachael, Poor William.

Excellent job as always.

Kathleen
Yeah! We may see a little more of Ripper, yes. :)

Miss Rose
11/11/2006 02:07 pm
Fight or Flight         
The revelations in this chapter were so sad. :( Makes me kind of hope Ripper comes out to play when and if Angel turns up as requested. Great chapter.
One can hope. :)

11/11/2006 06:29 am
Fight or Flight         
How heartbreaking for Spike and little Rachel. I liked how Giles suggested that “the impetus for change would have never been put into place” when Spike commented on how things might have been different if Rachel had spoken up or if he or Buffy had been able to kill Angelus. I loved Dawn’s reaction when Willow told her that Althenea had said that she was a bit of a control freak and Willow’s comment about how she is always the last to know. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
Glad you liked the chapter. I always thought there was more to Spike's hatred of Angelus than met the eye...so I created what I thought happened. Thank goodness for AU!

kim
11/11/2006 05:34 am
Fight or Flight         
Ho...making Angelus the killer of his family...torturing Rachel at such a young age...whew! You go for the intense. Dear goodness....

And then the other conversation, which isn't nearly so serious. But everybody's changed.
Change happens in bangs and whimpers. This was a little of both.

pretty_in_fangs
11/11/2006 05:11 am
Fight or Flight         
Oh, Spike...
I know...:( Puts a whole other facet on Spike's hatred of Angel, doesn't it.

11/11/2006 05:10 am
Fight or Flight         
I usually wait until a story is finished to read it, because I forget the stories between chaps, ;P but I couldn't wait with this, and love it!
Thanks! It's good to hear from you again! :D

11/11/2006 01:53 am
Fight or Flight         
oh wow...that just about brought me to tears...how very sad...poor spike, poor little rachel...and i'm glad that willow is starting to come to terms with her own responsibility for what happened...great chapter :)
:) Ditto!

11/11/2006 01:53 am
Fight or Flight         
oh wow...that just about brought me to tears...how very sad...poor spike, poor little rachel...and i'm glad that willow is starting to come to terms with her own responsibility for what happened...great chapter :)
Thank you. This was hard for me to write. I'm glad it affected you so much.

12/17/2006 08:05 pm
The Lost Art         
Wow! two fantastic conversations. Dawn really does have big thoughts, doesn't she? and love it that Spike still can use his sense of humour to drive a point home. This is irony for you, just watched an episode of "Supernatural" were Amber Benson(Tara) was part of a group of vamps that refused to kill humans and lived on cows blood. Kinda freaky. Just love where you continue to take this, thanks.
Glad you like the story. I saw that "supernatural" ep too. I think the big wigs over at the WB/CW were feeling kinda guilty for cancelling our shows. I mean- demon hunters... in a big, black car? :P

11/07/2006 01:47 am
The Lost Art         
very good read, thank you. when i mention giles and shades of grey, i did not realize he would need spike to tell him how to resolve the problem. and next chapter we hear red's answer to dawn's question?
Maybe...read and find out. :)

fallen_angel
11/05/2006 04:13 pm
The Lost Art         
Spike taught Billy Idol his moves huh? LOL
Maybe...or maybe he saw the potential for a few easy snacks. e.g. groupies. If that's the case, why kill a meal ticket. :)

11/04/2006 11:30 pm
The Lost Art         
wow....that's some heavy thinking giles needs to do, to figure out how to go about things from here...love the look into their shared family history...lovely chapter, looking forward to more :)
They all do. I think it's about time they did. And, more is coming, don't worry.

Miss Rose
11/04/2006 06:35 am
The Lost Art         
As always the flashback the was awesome. Loved Giles and Spike's heart to heart, it was so good to see the two opening up to each other and talking so honestly.
Dawn's conversation with Willow was also great, I enjoyed reading Dawn's musings.
LOL... Spike's Billy Idol tale was a nice touch. Wonderful chapter!
I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter so much. I had to mention Billy somewhere, it seemed right that Spike would use it to break the tension a little. Now they all have to get to know one another again.

kim
11/04/2006 03:06 am
The Lost Art         
I'm going to give you a big head, aren't I? Cuz all I keep coming up with after these beautiful chapters are words of praise....

Goodness...wow...

Loved Dawn's questioning to Willow. That's really the big question, isn't it? Willow refused to deal with things like a normal human would.

And LOL at the Billy Idol reference. Spike and his sense of humor. :)
Thank you so much! And, I think my head is still head- sized. I can still fit through my door so...:) As for Billy...what can I say? I'm an "Idol Worshipper" from back in the day, and proud of it!:D

11/03/2006 10:53 pm
The Lost Art         
The conversation between Giles and Spike becomes more and more enlightening. The flash-back really showed how much Spike still cared for his family. I liked how Spike called Giles on the attitude he was showing towards his grandmother and they discussed how her death affected both of them. I loved how Spike urged Giles to continue doing his job, that he was counting on him. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
William has always been a family type. Glad you enjoyed the chapter

sirc
11/03/2006 09:26 pm
The Lost Art         
Great chapter :D
Thanks!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/03/2006 09:07 pm
The Lost Art         
Good chapter.Update soon.I love Uncle!Spike telling a story.What I meant was that Spike knows that Giles knows now.
It should be fun watching them get to know each other.

Lou
11/03/2006 08:11 pm
The Lost Art         
The conversation revealed so much about them -- wonderful flashbacks too.
Thank you! I like flashbacks too.

pretty_in_fangs
11/03/2006 07:44 pm
The Lost Art         
I'm sure Giles never imagined the day when Spike would be the one encouraging him to continue his duties.
I suppose not. But, did you really expect Spike to call for a reforendum on staking?

12/17/2006 07:41 pm
All The Difference         
Looks like this is where I let off and what an amazing chapter too! That Buffy finally realized that he was better off without a soul, the one thing that she as well as everyone else, thought that set Angel apart from Spike, not that he'd been different all along. Love the irony! What a wonderful scene between William and Rachel as Giles listened. Thanks for bring up Ben, sometimes people forget just how much darkness Giles still has inside. I'd been waiting a long time to hear this conversation, it makes me happy for both of them, thank so much. What a fantastic chapter.
I never forgot darker Giles. And I think this all depends on the kind of person you are when you get turned. William was lovestuck, and heartbroken-and a bit angry. Ergo lovestruck, angry heartachy vampire. The soul has nothing to do with the kind of person you are. It's all about choices.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
11/02/2006 10:57 pm
All The Difference         
Good chapter.Update soon.Yay! Spike knows.Sorry I haven't reviewed in awhile.The site wouldn't let me on for a long time,and I just got in yesterday.
Spike always knew. And, I'm glad you're back.

Lou
10/31/2006 11:45 pm
All The Difference         
Poor Spike has a way to go yet. Can't wait for the next chapter! The relationship with Giles will enter a whole new level.
He's making baby steps. But, thank God he's not in an alley eating rats!:D

sirc
10/31/2006 04:23 pm
All The Difference         
Loved this :D
Thank you!

10/31/2006 06:44 am
All The Difference         
very good update, thank you. wonder ful conversations, real and remembered. giles just discovered grey and seems to be trying to differentiate shades of grey.
He is. And sometimes that can be life-altering.

pretty_in_fangs
10/29/2006 08:37 pm
All The Difference         
Oh funfunfun.
:)

Miss Rose
10/29/2006 05:51 am
All The Difference         
I loved Buffy's eye-opening conversation with Spike. The flashback was so beautifully bittersweet. The last talk between Spike and Rachel really touched my heart, and I liked how it led to Giles ask more questions about the grey areas of life. I'm really looking forward to the upcoming Spike/Giles conversation. Wonderful chapter!
I don't know about you, but I kinda like grey.

10/29/2006 05:29 am
All The Difference         
Lovely chapter and I hope that Buffy continues to work to bring Spike around. THanks!
She will. But not everyone trusts the "new" Spike...:)

10/29/2006 05:00 am
All The Difference         
Everything between Spike and Buffy is so emotional, so intense; I really like how they are getting so many things out in the open. Buffy’s horror and the responsibility she felt for what happened to Spike and particularly his response to her statement was heart-breaking. I liked Giles’ memory flashback, how he truly realized that it was Spike, and the questions it made him start wondering about, mainly I loved his thoughts about the soul. I loved how Giles asked Spike to tell him what his Grandmother’s brother was like; the line, ‘I hear tell that you used to be him’ was great, as was Spike’s response. I loved the last line in this chapter. Thank you so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
Well, now that the cat's out of the bag, why shouldn't Spike be a little more "himself?" Whoever that may turn out to be. Glad you enjoyed the story.

kim
10/29/2006 03:04 am
All The Difference         
Wonderful, as always...

Everybody's at least a little bit right, right now, aren't they?

Great last line.
Thanks! Perspective can be sharp as a knife at times. Let's hope Giles doesn't go overboard while trying to adjust his, and the Council's, thinking. Not all vampires can be Spike! :) He truly is on of a kind.

10/29/2006 03:02 am
All The Difference         
your writing is so intense, so very powerful....love the way giles handled that one...and the conversation between buffy and spike was just heart-breaking...excellent chapter :)
Forgivness is a long road to travel, sometimes, especially when you have to forgive yourself.

MARGARET
10/28/2006 11:31 pm
All The Difference         
THANKS, GREAT CHAPTER
You're very welcome. :)

Lou
10/31/2006 11:35 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
That was so moving. Beautifully done.
Thanks so much!

10/29/2006 02:05 am
The Chicken and the Egg         
This is one of the few times that I love Buffy, I love how she's trying for him. Fighting her own instincts...to run, to be somewhere safe, where his pain can't hurt her. A place where she doesn't have to look into his beautiful face and know how much pain he's in. I'm so grateful that she finally see's him as he trully is...vampire who loves her completely. What an amazing job describing him in the vunerable state that he's now in and Buffy's love and compassion for him. Excellent chapter, thanks for the wonderful read.
I like this Buffy too. Fanfic can do wonders, can't it?:) Love really is great when you finally see it clearly.

10/28/2006 08:45 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
awww...another chapter that had tears in my eyes...all he's been through just to change -- for *her*...i'm so glad she's able to help him through this...i wonder abuot his mother's second husband, though...wonder how old he was when it happened and what happened after...hope it will soon be revealed :)
Soon. All will be revealed soon. :)

10/27/2006 11:01 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
What a beautiful conversation between Spike and Buffy. I love how she fought her natural instinct to run when things get hard and she not only stayed but she told Spike how she really saw him. Thank you so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
You're very welcome.

fallen_angel
10/27/2006 08:08 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
Angel mention-age...*shudder*.
Yeah, I know..*cringe* sorry.

sirc
10/27/2006 06:27 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
Well done :)
Thanks!

pretty_in_fangs
10/27/2006 02:12 pm
The Chicken and the Egg         
oooh. What a beautiful scene.
Thanks :)

Miss Rose
10/27/2006 06:47 am
The Chicken and the Egg         
I'm so happy Spike and Buffy are communicating, their talk was wonderful, as was the flashback. Fantastic chapter!
At least they're trying. It's not an easy thing for either of them now.

valdt
10/27/2006 06:41 am
The Chicken and the Egg         
sweet read, thank you. that conversation probably helped more than blood.
I think it did too. :)

kim
10/27/2006 04:58 am
The Chicken and the Egg         
Awwww....so beautiful.
Thanks for this. Spike and Buffy need their good moments. And comments are good for FMS! :)

Dar
10/22/2006 05:42 pm
Interlude         
Love the chuckle ending of this chapter. Thumbs up
Thanks, Dar!

sirc
10/21/2006 12:46 pm
Interlude         
Loved this :D
I'm glad!

10/21/2006 12:02 pm
Interlude         
I loved how Buffy's 'little tirade' was received by Spike, how like him after confirming that she said she loved him he also confirmed that she said that Angel's hair was 'bloody stupid'. Buffy's concern for Spike and making sure that he was taken care of is so nice, I can only imagine that her positive actions towards him are going to really help he truly see that she means what she is saying. Thank you for the update, I really enjoyed it.
She's so much more "real" here than she was on the show, don't you think?

10/21/2006 11:58 am
Interlude         
Of course, her saying that Angel's hair was "bloody stupid" was what it took to bring him around, even after he realized that she said that she loved him. OK, Giles does realize that Spike's his uncle. Can't wait to see that conversation's going to go. I hope Angel comes so that he can see how much better his grandchilde is then he is but I don't want for Angel to do anything to hurt him either. Wonderful chapter, thanks.
He won't hurt him. But he isn't one who takes kindly to change. :)

10/21/2006 08:07 am
Interlude         
awww....buffy *does* apologize well, when she ever gets around to doing it at all! i love the way you're writing spike in this, so very wonderfully done! :)
Thanks! I just couldn't resist having Buffy say "bloody."

Miss Rose
10/21/2006 06:44 am
Interlude         
Yay! For the Spike chuckles! Thanks so much for putting some laughter back into Spike's life, he really needed it. I look forward to finding out if Angel is willing to help. Fantastic chapter! :)
He might...but every big change has its opponents. :)

pretty_in_fangs
10/21/2006 05:30 am
Interlude         
I'll admit, I grinned too when I saw her refer to his "bloody stupid, spiked hair". (:
You were supposed to. Who can't smile when Buffy says "bloody?" :D

valdt
10/21/2006 05:20 am
Interlude         
sweet read thank you.
You're very welcome

Lou
10/21/2006 02:24 am
Interlude         
AT LAST!!! A SPIKE CHUCKLE!!!!
Glad you liked it.

10/21/2006 02:18 am
Interlude         
*snort* love the way you mix plot with both a bit of angst and a lot of humor at the end :P
Can't be gloom and doom all the time. :)

10/21/2006 12:44 am
Interlude         
Love Spike's reaction....so perfect! This is such a wonderful story. Congratulations on the nominations for it (you really deserve them all). Wonderful update as always.
Kathleen
Thanks for reading...it means so much. And Buffy saying "bloody"? How could he stay mad at her after that?

kim
10/21/2006 12:11 am
Interlude         
Hey, she said the right words for once. Hee hee hee....
Think she'll do it again?:)

Lou
10/17/2006 02:16 pm
Post Mortem         
Poor, poor Spike. He's in sad need of some positive help, isn't he?
Yes he is. And he will be getting it, though he may not accept it at first.

sirc
10/16/2006 07:09 pm
Post Mortem         
Great chapter :D
Thanks!

10/16/2006 07:56 am
Post Mortem         
ya know, as much as I usually dont like the git, i'm thinking maybe spike kinda needs angel right now...or maybe not, guess we'll see soon what your take on it is...hopefully they'll be able to help spike get through this next difficult step :)
Yep. But will he ask...and will Angel help if he does ask?

Miss Rose
10/16/2006 03:43 am
Post Mortem         
It's interesting that Panya is the first person to ever ask about Spike's life before he became a vampire. Great flashback. I'm glad Giles is finally listening to his Grandmother's insightful words. Loved the chapter!
As far as the Council is concerned..."Seen one vamp, seen 'em all." Mouse isn't with the Council...yet. :)

10/16/2006 01:32 am
Post Mortem         
Makes sense, the Watcher's would have no interest in the past of the vamps they were recording. They had no idea that any vamp could be influenced by his past. Giles should have known something of William from his Grandmother. Even if she didn't tell him of his vampire status. Love little Panya and his need to know his friend better. No one thought to get Spike any blood for when the ordeal was over? I'm glad that Buffy didn't pressure Spike about drinking from her, he already feels so remorseful for what he tried to do. They all will need time to heal. Great chappie, thanks.
Maybe Giles did know about uncle William. I did say that he knew that his uncle was killed by a vampire. :) That part is true. He may not have connected the rest. As for being prepared...the scoobies were always a bit short-sighted.

kim
10/16/2006 12:11 am
Post Mortem         
Good ol' Panya. The faith and clarity of youth....long forgotten by all the rest. Children can teach us much, if we listen.

It must have taken much from him just to feed on the animals he'd come across between Africa and Sunnydale. Of course, if he's loopy enough, the demon will still push towards survival and find something. But, Spike snaps back from anything. That's what he does.
Spike'll come through. He's a fighter. But you're right, the soul makes no distinction between food and murder. That makes surviving difficult.

10/15/2006 11:39 pm
Post Mortem         
Mouse really is asking the difficult questions. I like his question on if anyone had ever asked Spike. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
Well sometimes it's best to look at things with a fresh,unbiased set of eyes.

10/15/2006 10:41 pm
Post Mortem         
awwwwwwwwww very sweet. I'm so glad Giles is so supportive. Poor Spike. Also, I love the banner! I'm a bit of a banner freak, so I know it's nice to get comments on the banner too lol. :)
I think it's about time they circled the wagons around Spike. And, Nemo did a Great job on the banner! :)

valdt
10/17/2006 11:11 pm
Beginnings         
beautiful, thank you
You are very welcome. Thanks for reading. :)

sirc
10/13/2006 04:39 pm
Beginnings         
Great chapter :D
Thanks!

10/13/2006 03:18 am
Beginnings         
Glad Mouse is there and even more glad that Giles and Willow are finally seeing the light! This continues to excell.

Kathleen
Thanks. Giles is looking to make changes on the Coucil. But, will he have opposition from somewhere unexpected?

Lynda
10/12/2006 11:24 pm
Beginnings         
I did not mean that you confused me. I meat to say that the story had a lot of turns and twists. I understand the story and I love it. I await for the Spuffyness to come.
Good. I'm glad I didn't and I'm glad you like the story. Don't be afraid to e-mail if you want clarification, though. I don't bite...:)

margaret
10/12/2006 09:27 pm
Beginnings         
thank you for the beautiful chapter
You are welcome. :)

pretty_in_fangs
10/12/2006 02:14 pm
Beginnings         
Lovely chapter.

I'm intrigued to see what Giles is going to decide about the Watcher's Council.
It should be interesting...:)

Lou
10/12/2006 12:13 pm
Beginnings         
It's a treat to see Giles and Willow facing reality! Spike's talk with Buffy - very moving.
In my 'verse people aren't as likely to be going, "lalala" through life. Hope you like it here in my little world.

10/12/2006 10:56 am
Beginnings         
Good for her. She needed to do that for herself as well as for him. To have him that close again must be heaven for him. Great read, thanks.
If not Heaven, it's pretty close.

Miss Rose
10/12/2006 08:02 am
Beginnings         
Awww... The Spike/Panya scene was so sweet, Panya is such a great original character. And it was so nice to see Buffy being so loving, and forgiving. I guess the big question now is can Spike forgive himself. Wonderful chapter! :)
That would be my question too. What do you think?

10/12/2006 06:40 am
Beginnings         
that last bit brought tears to my eyes...poor spike is still so broken by the wreckage of their past relationship...i hope they can make it better with time...great, moving chapter, pet ;)
He's more than a little overwrought right now. Time heals all...at least we hope.

10/12/2006 06:16 am
Beginnings         
Mouse really does see into the heart of things. I love the advice he gave to Spike. The sweetness of the comfort and trust that Buffy is trying to give to Spike is wonderful. These events have really knocked Giles world askew. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
Things are going to be tough. And, changes will be made...but will everyone change their thinking...? :)

10/12/2006 05:00 am
Beginnings         
shit. You made me cry. I hate it when I cry. Damnit
Sorry...I really am. But, I can't promise I won't do it again...:)

kim
10/12/2006 04:02 am
Beginnings         
Fabulous as always. Love the banner.
Thanks! And, Nemo did a * great* job on the banner! Glad you like it...maybe not as much as I do, but... :)

vladt
10/10/2006 01:58 am
Me         
excellent read, thank you. spike brought buffy back on his own, good job. should be an entertaining read discovering what "It really is me” is all about.
Should be fun...:)

Robyn
10/09/2006 02:45 am
Me         
Mouse is there to help, I am so glad that Spike has him. Buffy being awake is wonderful. This chapter brought tears to my eyes with its emotional impact. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
Glad I could touch your emotions in such a way. Thanks for reading.

sirc
10/07/2006 10:08 am
Me         
A very emotional chapter..

Loved it :D
Glad you liked it :D

Miss Rose
10/07/2006 07:10 am
Me         
Yay! Buffy woke up, and Panya finally made it to England. The Spuffy scene was wonderful. I can't wait to see where things go from here. Great chapter!
Time to reconnect. And, dince the rules have changed, it's time to change the Council as well.

10/07/2006 07:03 am
Me         
Go Spike! Leave it to him to go the "take charge" approach to bringing her around. So glad you've brought Panya back. It's only right for him to be there, since was the one to stand by the broken vampire, whenhe needed it most. Now is the time of healing and reconnecting with those he loves and family. Another great chapter, thanks.
Spike had always "got it done" when things needed doin'; why should this be any different? We're coming full circle here, of course Mouse would be there for his friend.

10/07/2006 03:30 am
Me         
awww...i'm so glad mouse came to see him...excellent chapter, so glad he managed to wake buffy up...now it's time for spike to finally get some tlc, yeah? :) (I hope) i love this fic :)
Lol....This from the writer who is, herself, dishing out the angst-fest of the year. How many chapters is it now...? *Spoken in Spike-like drawl* All good things, yeah? Wait for it. ;)

Lynda
10/07/2006 02:27 am
Me         
This story is confusing and intriguing and I simply love it. Every chapter is something new. I never know what is to come but I hope for my happy ending.
Hmmm...didn't mean to confuse you. But, I'm so glad you're not bored. Please keep reading...there might be a happy ending in it for ya!

kim
10/07/2006 02:01 am
Me         
You paint these flashbacks so beautifully. I'm envious.

I'm glad to see Buffy was just hanging at the edge of consciousness, instead of completely catatonic...she pulls enough disappearing acts as it is. ;)

And now Mouse is there! Sweet hallelujah.
Nope, new Buffy- new way to deal...we hope;) I'm glad you like the imagery. Mouse can put all things right again.

Lou
10/07/2006 12:24 am
Me         
Beautiful chapter - very moving.
Thank you very much!

10/06/2006 11:31 pm
Me         
Lovely, just so nice and quiet and moving toward closure. I'm glad to see that Mouse has found them.
I like the quiet sometimes. Mouse will help them live with what's happened.

vladt
10/10/2006 01:49 am
Seeing You         
very good read. thank you. everyone appears to be doing well, except buffy. seeing that noone has a clue, panya must have the needed info. thanks, again.
New eyes can do wonders

Robyn
10/05/2006 02:11 pm
Seeing You         
It's good to hear from Mouse again. There is so much saddness. I hope that Spike will be able to reach Buffy. Thanks so much for the updates, I really enjoyed them.
Mouse might be able to help. And, I'm glad you were able to comment. It's nice to know people are enjoying this story.

10/03/2006 01:17 am
Seeing You         
well, now spike's seen what he needs to see to be reassured...now it's buffy's turn...right? great chapter, love...how are they gonna help her?
Now...if I told you that, would you still read? I brought in the cavelry, no worries.:-)

Lou
10/02/2006 11:45 am
Seeing You         
Maybe Spike needs to figure this one out - he's been a victim long enough!
Victim...? Not my intention. The Spike I know, and the one I try to write, is strong in the face of any challange. He does however, have to deal with the soul of a gentle poet stirring within him. That's bound to make him a little unsure of himself-for a while. Please be paitent.

10/02/2006 10:15 am
Seeing You         
Poor Spike still having to bear the weight of guilt, guilt for everything that's happened to everyone he know's and loves. Buffy needs to wakeup and tell her man that she loves him and everythings going to be fine. Great chapter, thanks for the read.
Yeah...but the question is, will she?

Miss Rose
10/02/2006 06:31 am
Seeing You         
Reading Spike's POV of what happened was so heartbreaking. I'm looking forward to finding out how Spike wakes Buffy up, I wonder if a kiss is in the offing? I'm so happy that Panya is back in the storyline, I really missed him. Fantastic chapter!
Maybe...but maybe they need new eyes in on this. Eyes that have a little less of an emotional connection to what's happening.

kim
10/02/2006 04:36 am
Seeing You         
Well, that's Buffy for ya...mental collapse again. Bit of a drama queen, isn't she?

Yay! Panya's coming. I've been waiting for him to show up again.

Poor Spike...rest is still elusive.
Yeah she is. As for rest- there is none- for the wicked.

Robyn
10/05/2006 02:01 pm
Facing Me         
I love how both Giles and Willow looked back on things they have done and their thoughts. Dawn and Spike were so sweet, I love how she told him she was sorry for not seeing him.
Sometimes, "I'm sorry" is all you need to say/

vladt
09/30/2006 02:21 am
Facing Me         
really good read, thank you. enjoyed dawn's apology
Glad you enjoyed it.

sirc
09/28/2006 08:15 pm
Facing Me         
Great chapter :D
Thanks!

Miss Rose
09/28/2006 02:02 pm
Facing Me         
Yay! Spike is awake, pity Buffy's the one sleeping now. I liked reading the insightful musings of Buffy, Willow, and Giles, looks like they all learned something very important. I loved the sweet interaction between Spike and Dawn, i'm glad Dawn got the chance to tell Spike what's in her heart. I look forward to more interactions between Spike and his loved ones. Wonderful chapter!
And when Buffy wakes up...there should be plenty of fireworks. :)

09/28/2006 07:52 am
Facing Me         
well that was positively therapeutic....poor spike, poor buffy...i want her to wake up so they can finally be together...
Good things come to those who wait. :) It'll happen.

09/28/2006 06:38 am
Facing Me         
Very nice chapter. I like the way you handle the cahracters' introspection. Thanks!
Thanks. Glad you like this story so much.

09/28/2006 04:50 am
Facing Me         
So much love. He's concerned for Dawn, when it was he that went through so much. That's our Spike. Looks like they all are seeing him through very different eyes now. Awesome fic, thanks for the read.
He's always been more big brother than "Big Bad," at least in my eyes. Everyone has a dark side...:)

kim
09/28/2006 02:48 am
Facing Me         
Brilliant emotion...big turning point for everybody here.

I hope this story will go on for a bit still...I just love it.
Not to worry, it's going to go on for a while yet. And, thanks for the comments. I really look foward to them. :)

09/28/2006 02:12 am
Facing Me         
awwwwwwwwww very sweet. lots of sad though. :( Hope it gets happier soon. (yeah I know...coming from me that's insane with my angst-fest lol.)

Oh...and I just figured out where your nick came from. I was watching an episode of Angel the other day and spike said: "Where's a fetching mad scientist when you need one?" hehehe.
You have to have sad. It makes the happy parts even sweeter. I aim to please my Spike-shaped muse, hence the penname. :P

Robyn
10/05/2006 01:54 pm
Survival Instinct         
Giles really did a great job in reaching the Ukesolrill and I like how he went about doing it, helping him find some rest.
I'm glad he used his brains. If he'd used his fists Giles might have gotten hurt.

sirc
09/26/2006 03:59 pm
Survival Instinct         
Great chapter :)
Thanks!

pretty_in_fangs
09/25/2006 07:59 pm
Survival Instinct         
Wow. Fabulous chapter. Go, Giles.
Thanks! Bring on the pom-poms. :P

vladt
09/25/2006 05:22 am
Survival Instinct         
well done, thank you should have known travers would not understand what he was dealing the entity he was subverting.
People on power rarely do...

09/25/2006 12:24 am
Survival Instinct         
wow....go giles :)...i wouldn't have thought it would be that easy...would have thought the thing was more malevolent than that, at heart...but apparently not...unless you have more surprises up your sleeve for us... :P kinda hope not, though...kinda hope spike gets the chance to recover now :)
It's all about power. The Ukesolrill, re: Slayer, never really had any. It was just a servant. A servant that was being used by its masters and abused. But now that there's a new man in town, all that's gonna change. :)

09/24/2006 06:48 am
Survival Instinct         
Wow! what a surprise to find the Ukeslorill so sensitive and easily hurt by what the Council had done to it. So Giles knows who Spike is to him, fantastic! maybe now he will approve of any relationship that Spike and Buffy have. Spike's soul will hopefully now be more at peace at this next entering. Looks like there maybe a happy ending after all, Three slightly broken souls can now build on a better foundation. Great read for this fantastic story, thanks.
The Ukesolrill was nothing more than the Council's slave. It is also a sentient entity, and wants to survive. Being placed inside the thing it's designed to kill is a sure death sentence. I think it has a right to be hurt. Thanks for reading.

09/24/2006 02:25 am
Survival Instinct         
aweseome chapter! :)
Thanks for sayin so! :)

kim
09/24/2006 12:35 am
Survival Instinct         
Oh, excellent...I knew there was a reason you wanted us to have a bit of sympathy for the Ukesolrill. Just another being used and abused by the old Council. I'm very interested in what this will mean for Buffy and Faith...though I'm also thinking this just means it is, as before, that it will rest until Buffy and Faith are both dead, and a new Slayer is needed...as things had always been.

And Spike does need quite a bit of rest. Finally, though, his soul can begin to stabilize in accordance with all the memories and feelings...and he can be himself, with everyone that cares right here.
You're just too smart for me. :) And you're right, Spike needs to sleep for a week and a whole heap of tlc. :)

09/23/2006 11:09 pm
Survival Instinct         
Wonderful chapter! I really like the way you resolved this and look forward to seeing what happens when Spike awakes. Thanks!
Time to be with family, perhaps. :)

Miss Rose
09/23/2006 09:43 pm
Survival Instinct         
I really enjoyed Giles's confrontation with the Ukesolrill. I'm glad everything went so well. Can't wait for Spike to wake up. Wonderful chapter! :)
It went well because Giles realized he was the one with the power. Glad you liked it.

Lou
09/23/2006 09:31 pm
Survival Instinct         
Very fitting that Giles should be so pivotal in Spike's battle. Brilliant.
He is Spike's kin, after all. It just made sense.

sirc
09/23/2006 07:14 pm
Objects in Motion         
Great chapter :)
Thanks

09/22/2006 07:05 am
Objects in Motion         
oh i love it when giles goes all ripper on the villain...*hehe*...i can't wait for your next chapter, love, to find out what happens...please say it'll be soon! :)
Soon, very soon.

09/19/2006 09:23 pm
Objects in Motion         
BTW....got a hunch Giles plans to deal with THIS demon much as he did as a young man with Eyghon. Dangerous for Giles unless Spike/WIlliam can summon the strength to help.

Kathleen
Brilliant deduction, my dear reader. :)

09/19/2006 09:12 pm
Objects in Motion         
Oh test away Giles! Fabulous update. This creature Travers put into Spike is no match for the two men and one demon that love Buffy that much....not to mention have a relationship of their own to sort out. We know that both William and the demon love Buffy as does Giles but this creature doesn't understand that sort of pure power at all. Excellent.

Kathleen
this has become my favorite of all your fine stories (still reading as I can even if I can't always comment).
Love is a powerful weapon in the right hands.

Lou
09/18/2006 09:07 pm
Objects in Motion         
Wow - so dramatic!! Now for the confrontation.
Comin' right up! :P

Robyn
09/18/2006 11:06 am
Objects in Motion         
I love it, Giles knows that Spike is his family. I am looking forward to finding out if Giles is going to what I think he is going to do. I do love it when Ripper comes out to play. Thanks so much for the update, I really enjoyed it.
It's about time he found out, don't you think. As for what Ripper will do? You'll have to see... but I think you may be right. :)

vladt
09/18/2006 05:55 am
Objects in Motion         
wonderful read, thank you. love ripper's "...I’d like to test my theory, if you don’t mind.”
It was sort of a twist on his words to Willow in "Grave."

pretty_in_Fangs
09/18/2006 05:16 am
Objects in Motion         
hee hee hee. Go Giles.
Bring it on! :p

Miss Rose
09/18/2006 04:21 am
Objects in Motion         
Wow!!! This update was so intense, it was a real nail biter! This first taste of Ripper vs. the Ukesolrill was exciting, the upcoming confrontation should be a doozy. Great chapter!
Yup, should be fun. :p

09/18/2006 04:16 am
Objects in Motion         
ohhhhhh me likey uber conifident snarky Ripper
I do too. :)

09/18/2006 02:05 am
Objects in Motion         
Yeah Giles! so exciting! Just enough of Spike there not to let Buffy die. Nervously waiting to see what Giles has in mind. Thanks for another great chapter.
What does Giles have in mind? The hints are right in the chapter. See if you can find them. :)

kim
09/17/2006 11:54 pm
Objects in Motion         
More! More! You end it THERE? A torturer, you are....Loving this....

Can't wait to see Giles get scary!
I know. I'm evil...what can I say? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/17/2006 11:51 pm
Objects in Motion         
Good chapter.Update soon.I really can't wait until Giles and Real! Spike talk.
Thanks! I can't wait, either. :)

09/22/2006 07:01 am
Eulogy         
oh man...this is intense...what is she gonna have to do now to stop that thing???
*She* won't...

09/16/2006 07:30 am
Eulogy         
this is very very good. I can't wait for more. I don't mind dark fics but I hope it has a happy ending.
I'm glad you're reading. This is an AU remember; actually I think it's starting to become a complete rewrite of season seven. There wasn't enough tackling of the important issues, I thought. And don't worry I am a totally devoted to Spuffy! It'll be a long road, but our favorite couple will make it through the shadows and into the light- I promise! :)

sirc
09/15/2006 05:51 pm
Eulogy         
Great chapter :)
Thanks :)

Robyn
09/15/2006 01:35 pm
Eulogy         
This flash-back of when Giles first met Spike and the comfort he tried to give was wonderful. What a cliff-hanger, I’m glad that Willow realizes that something is wrong. I’m really looking forward to how all this is resolved. Thanks so much for the updates, I’ve really enjoyed them.
Giles might have to step in here.

09/15/2006 04:25 am
Eulogy         
Evil cliffie! What a wonderful meeting in the cemetery, did he know that was his nephew? Probably since he didn't eat him. Hurry Willow hurry! Thanks for the update. It was great.
Well, considering that his step-sister married a guy named Giles in the last chapter- I'm guessing yes. And cliffies will make you keep reading he he. :)

vladt
09/15/2006 03:29 am
Eulogy         
great chapter, thank you. evil place to pause.
Sorry...I am a slave to my muse- and the clock. When the muse abandons at 2:30 a.m....well, what can I say?

Lou
09/14/2006 10:27 pm
Eulogy         
God that was a shock!!
It was meant to be. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/14/2006 09:25 pm
Eulogy         
Good chapter.Update soon.I can't wait until Spike and Giles are face to face.
I can't wait either! :)

09/14/2006 03:50 pm
Eulogy         
This just continues to excel in every way! Your plot is fabulous and characterizations go straight to the heart. The last bit is chilling but I know there is a rainbow at the end of the storm. Wonderful, just wonderful

Kathleen
still somewhat computer challenged
Thank you for saying so. The last line was meant to put a shiver in the reader. It seems to have worked. Thanks for reading.

Miss Rose
09/14/2006 01:42 pm
Eulogy         
The new info on Giles's past was really interesting. The flashback was great, I liked how Spike came out of the shadows to offer his nephew comfort in his time of need.
Darn that Ukesolrill! I was afraid all Spike's happy emotions would strength it. I can't wait to find out how the cliffie turns out! Fantastic chapter!
May be that it's time for nephew to return the kindness...? Just a thought.:)

pretty_in_fangs
09/14/2006 01:13 pm
Eulogy         
::shiver:: I can't wait to see how this plays out.
Won't have to wait too long.

09/14/2006 12:35 pm
Eulogy         
Great chapter and nice interlude in the cemetary. Poor Spike. Willow had better hurry up and work out a fix. Thanks again.
Somebody had better do something. Keep reading and see who steps up to the plate.

fallen_angel
09/14/2006 12:01 pm
Eulogy         

Loved the way you ended the chapter.The last line has impact.
That punch is what I was going for. Glad it came through.

kim
09/14/2006 09:28 am
Eulogy         
Eeep!! Oh, goodness! You just keep putting out these chapters that have me gasping at the last...I'm on pins and needles for what comes next.
Gotta love those cliffies! :) Keep reading and find out.

09/22/2006 06:58 am
Blessings and Cursings         
what is giles remembering here? i am missing something somewhere... great chapter, though :)
You mean the flashback? That's just exposition. I don't think you've missed anything.

sirc
09/15/2006 05:39 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
You've been dropping hints for a while now. I think my hunch was right from the start, but I'll see that later

Great chapter :D
If your hunch is what I think it is, then you may have been right. :) Thanks for reading.

Robyn
09/15/2006 01:22 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
I love the flash-back scenes, and the wedding scene was really beautiful. I’m looking forward to finding out if Giles has realized exactly who Spike really is or if he has only realized that there is a connection.
If he hasn't realized it yet, he will soon.

vladt
09/09/2006 11:35 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
vrey good read, thank you. it appears giles has some idea what travers did.
Perhaps :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/08/2006 10:24 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
Yay!Giles knows.I'm not angsty anymore.Update soon.
I'm glad. :)

MARGARET
09/08/2006 08:40 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
LOVCE THE GLIMPSES INTO THE PAST, VCAN'T WAIT FOR MORE!
Thanks!

Miss Rose
09/08/2006 01:59 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
Wonderful flashback, very touching moment when Spike said a prayer for Rachel's happiness. Loved the closing scene with Willow and Giles, it's not very often that Giles gets emotional like that. Can't wait to find out what happens next. Fantastic chapter!
Giles has an inkling that Spike may know what happened to his family. Of course he'd be upset. Now, if he'd just put two and two together...:)

09/08/2006 12:41 pm
Blessings and Cursings         
Does he finally know that Spike's his uncle? or is it something else? If it's something else it can't be good. Thank you for the update, keep 'em coming, thanks.
He suspects that Spike may know something. Although, I'm quite sure he hasn't fit the puzzle together in his head yet.

kim
09/08/2006 08:56 am
Blessings and Cursings         
Ah...he finally figured it out.

Lovely scene at the wedding...so apropo.
So it seems. I love weddings too, so... Glad you enjoyed it.

pretty_in_fangs
09/08/2006 07:01 am
Blessings and Cursings         
::big grin:: Nice chapter.
Thanks!

09/22/2006 06:55 am
Plain Truths         
wow...this is just so intense, so deeply moving and tender...love this new way between them, even if they are still caught in this battle...great chapter, pet :)
I like my Buffy better than M.E.'s. Thanks for reading.

Robyn
09/14/2006 09:47 pm
Plain Truths         
I loved this chapter and how Spike misread Buffy’s body’s responses and thought one thing and her promise and declaration at the end showing how she really feels.
Glad you enjoyed the chapter.

09/08/2006 12:31 pm
Plain Truths         
It's eveything he's ever wanted, and he just heard those words come out of her mouth, how wonderful. He doesn't believe it now but I hope he will soon. Sorry I missed this one. Wonderful chapter, thanks.
Yes it is. And, when the truth finally sinks in, what will that do to him, and his state of mind? :)

Lynda
09/06/2006 06:19 am
Plain Truths         
Finally some peace, some love and understanding. This chapter was so beautiful just like your story.
Thank you. I needed some calm before I ramped the action up again. I'm glad you're enjoying the story.

vladt
09/05/2006 08:46 pm
Plain Truths         
very good read, thank you. “I love you, Spike,”should changes the dynamics involved.
It just might. :)

Miss Rose
09/05/2006 07:57 pm
Plain Truths         
The Spuffy interaction at the end of the chapter was just lovely! I think it was a wonderful move to have Buffy express her feelings first, I would have loved to have seen Buffy show emotion like this for Spike on the series. Fantastic chapter! :)
Congratulations on your well earned nomination!
I would have loved to see a softer Buffy on the show. Espcially after she learned about the soul. But alas, 'twas not to be. So, I made her. :)

Bridget
09/05/2006 06:07 pm
Plain Truths         
Nicely done.
Thanks!

Lou
09/05/2006 02:10 pm
Plain Truths         
Surely Buffy's admission will give him the strength to win this fight. Excellent chapter.
Let's hope. :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
09/05/2006 01:00 pm
Plain Truths         
Good chapter.Update soon.Aww,you made me feel angsty.
Angsty is good, right?

09/05/2006 06:47 am
Plain Truths         
Oh honey....you have outdone yourself both with this story and this chapter! You are so gifted and you pass that gift to us, the lucky readers. This is poetic!

Kathleen
will e-mail soon when yahoo lets me *G*
Thank you for that. I thought I lost you somewhere along the way. Poetic huh? I could get used to that. :)

kim
09/05/2006 05:42 am
Plain Truths         
Oh, what a promise!

You, are amazing. You manage to present such *feeling* into small spaces.
Thank you! Don't we all wish M.E. ahd gone that way? :)

09/22/2006 06:51 am
Everything Nice         
awww....i just wanna hold him and make it all better...poor thing...at least he's finally come back to her....
Yes, but will he be able to stay?

Robyn
09/08/2006 11:29 am
Everything Nice         
I thought it cute that Willow and Dawn realized what Spike would need but that it had to be a bit more explained to Giles before he understood. I like that it was Buffy telling Spike that Dawn was there that helped him break through and realize that Buffy was really there with him. The ending and him asking for knickers made me laugh.
The obvious? Not a Giles thing. As for the closing line...? I can't be sour and doom and gloom all the time. Glad you enjoyed it.

margaret
09/04/2006 12:56 am
Everything Nice         
thank you for the great update! glad spike is himself. please update soon
You're welcome. Let's see how long it will last...:)

sirc
09/01/2006 08:16 pm
Everything Nice         
Well done :D
Thanks!:)

pretty_in_fangs
08/31/2006 04:53 pm
Everything Nice         
yay! Its great to see Spike doing better, even if I fear it's only for now.
But, don't you think Spike's strong enough to hold on for a little while? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/31/2006 01:19 pm
Everything Nice         
Good chapter.Update soon.I'm back to Poor Spike!
Yeah, it could be dicy, if not embarrassing for a while.

Bridget
08/30/2006 10:55 pm
Everything Nice         
Great chapter. Beautifully written.
Thank you! :)

08/30/2006 02:50 pm
Everything Nice         
oookay... spike embarassed about being without his knickers... seeing as he doesnt normally wear any.... *giggle* must be william's influence...

Hey I wonder if giles wears tweed boxers....

Great chapter!
Spike was never modest. William, however...:)

08/30/2006 02:07 pm
Everything Nice         
Lovely chapter after so much pain. Thanks!
Everyone needs a breather. *big sigh*

Miss Rose
08/30/2006 01:29 pm
Everything Nice         
Awww... This update was so wonderfully upbeat. I loved the Spuffy interaction, and I really enjoyed Willow's musings. The lighthearted ending was absolutely wonderful, it really made me smile. Fantastic chapter! :)
I can't be dark *all* the time. I try but- it's just not me...or my Spike- like muse for that matter. We all know that, or we wouldn't be frequenting this site. Right? :)

08/30/2006 11:26 am
Everything Nice         
It's so wonderful to have him back. He's holding Buffy and Giles shoot Travers for him, so much to deal with but at least he has Buffy back again. Wonderful chapter, thanks for the update
You're very welcome!

kim
08/30/2006 11:14 am
Everything Nice         
They couldn't have put him in a pair of boxers while he was healing? LOLOLOLOLOLOL Well...Willow got quite a view, then. Silly Giles....

Love this chapter! Want more! Want more!

Had Buffy even noticed he was naked when she faced down the Ukesolrill? That really does make the confrontation...interesting. Good thing there's not much reason for modesty between them!
I think his rescuers, and Buffy, were focused on other things at the time.

I *know* that if Buffy had sensed Spike, rather than the Ukesolrill, when she went into that room, her reaction might have been different. What do you think...? :)

Lou
08/30/2006 10:59 am
Everything Nice         
Yaaay - things looking much more hopeful at last!
It's not all bad :D

vladt
08/30/2006 07:34 am
Everything Nice         
excellent upbeat chapter, thank you. oh, prophecy. time for the down slope. thanks for the fine read.
Sometimes I even need a break. Deep breath. Are you ready? :)

09/22/2006 06:47 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
oh go, buffy!!! yea, another stand-up-and-cheer moment...now for the sweet relief and healing... :)
Just a little break. I can't do marathon angst like some other writers do...:)

Robyn
09/08/2006 11:18 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
I loved Willow's realization that Spike was one of her truest friends and I loved the interaction between them. Buffy really did a great job facing personal truths while also facing the Ukesolrill.
In my world- Buffy's a little more self- aware, not self-absorbed.

lOU
08/30/2006 10:55 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
Gotta love a joint effort!
Two are better than one, sometimes.

vladt
08/27/2006 10:28 pm
The Stonecutter's Hand         
great chapter. round 1 to buffy, with an assist from red. thanks for the fine read.
Looks like...and you're welcome. :)

08/27/2006 04:14 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
Way to go Buffy!!! So glad that Willow's still there for Spike and she convinced him to keep fighting and just in time too! Buffy may have to face some very important truths about herself and Spike as well. Great update. Thanks for the great read.
She will. But Buffy loves Spike enough to go through whatever she has to, right? :)

Lou
08/27/2006 03:52 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
That was a real seesaw ride! Fantastic chapter.
Yes, it was. You don't get seasick, do you? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/26/2006 07:07 pm
The Stonecutter's Hand         
Good chapter.Update soon.At least Spike is fighting back now.Poor Buffy.
I think Buffy scared the Ukesolrill off. At leat for now.

pretty_in_fangs
08/26/2006 06:26 pm
The Stonecutter's Hand         
Go Buffy!
Yep. She may not have wanted to admit those things to herself, but at least she was honest-finally! :)

Miss Rose
08/26/2006 07:00 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
The confrontation between the Ukesolrill and Buffy was amazing. I loved that Willow was able to reach Spike and give him a pep talk. Spike's reaction to Willow's confession was so wonderfully Spike, even at a time like this he still thinks of his loved ones first. I'm so happy Spike has broken through again. I'm really looking forward to finding out where things go from here. Fantastic chapter!
I think it was a bit like talking to oneself. Buffy was able to admit things to the Ukesolriill that she hadn't before. And, you know that Spike always had a soft spot for Willow. Maybe she reminds him of someone he used to be...and still is, deep down?

kim
08/26/2006 06:31 am
The Stonecutter's Hand         
Powerful...I've got the shivers from how well you did...the Ukesolrill's attitude comes across just as strongly as the other characters.
Loved that Willow was still in commune with Spike. That was a nice surprise.
Thank you. I'm glad it touched you so much. There are other characters in this story, other than Buffy and Spike. I know... what a shock!:) I have to show them some attention too.

09/22/2006 06:43 am
Tragedy Masks         
so it can read her feelings and thoughts and such...not so much of the good...hope she can help spike now...
No, not hers...Spike's on the other hand...:)

Lou
08/23/2006 08:26 pm
Tragedy Masks         
Showtime!
"Bring the kiddies!" well, not really.:) But, it should be fun to watch.

nmcil
08/23/2006 11:03 am
Tragedy Masks         
Great Story - just loved reading this - terrific work - please, please, please hurry and give us your next chapter. Love your sections in Africa and that lovely young man you created.

I am especially enjoying this as I just watched (while working on a painting) some of the early Spike episodes - seeing even the contrast and continuity of Spike's transformation works makes reading this piece even better.
Thank you! Bit of writer's block, but the next chapter should be up soon.

I always saw the softie under Spike. "Big Bad?" :D Yeah, keep saying that, Spike. Maybe we'll believe you...:)

Robyn
08/21/2006 12:33 pm
Tragedy Masks         
This is going to be interesting. I am really looking forward to what is going to happen between Buffy and the Ukesolrill. I have really enjoyed catching up on the updates, thanks for such a great read.
It should be interesting. Thank you for reading.

DizzyB
08/21/2006 08:11 am
Tragedy Masks         
Just discovered this story today and couldn't stop reading till I caught up. Fascinating - drew me in immediately. Can't wait for the next chapter. :)
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I hope I can hold your interest. It could be a wild ride.

Miss Rose
08/19/2006 06:55 am
Tragedy Masks         
Yikes! Poor Spike, i'm glad we know he's still in there even if he is very weak at the moment. I wonder if Travers is rolling over in his grave over this development? I'm thinking this isn't quite what he had in mind. I enjoyed Giles' flashback and the emotion it brought forth in him. Fantastic chapter!
As the story goes, "watch" the eyes. You know the saying,"the eyes are the windows to the soul?" Remember what color I said Spike's aura was? Well... what color are the actor's eyes again?

08/19/2006 04:40 am
Tragedy Masks         
Thanks for getting this updated. Can't wait for them to have a go of it. Guess I don't have to wait anymore. Thanks for the flash back, helps me to remember that this Giles was his friend. Still want for Giles to know he's more than that. Hope you can update soon rather than later. Great chapter, wonderful read, thanks.
Slayer and Buffy are going to have a nice little chat. Hopefully Buffy will be seen as "family" and therefore will not be harmed.

kim
08/19/2006 02:55 am
Tragedy Masks         
And the Ukesolrill has reached consciousness. Time for Slayer against Slayer...and that answers the question of whether the fangs had grown back, yet. I imagine the roar might have in part been from the shift into game face again? It's first bit of pain to feel in how many centuries?
It should be a smackdown...or will it? It should be interesting, to say the least. :)

vladt
08/19/2006 12:29 am
Tragedy Masks         
very good update, thank you. love the chapter ending.
What will Buffy say? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/18/2006 11:17 pm
Tragedy Masks         
Good chapter.Update soon.That was a twist I wasn't expecting.I hope Real!Spike comes back soon.
Spike is in there. He's just a bit overwhelmed right now...But that could work in his favor.

fallen_angel
08/18/2006 10:43 pm
Tragedy Masks         
OMG!
Take a deep breath...and please read on.

09/22/2006 06:40 am
True Colors         
come on, Buffy....you've gotta take this thing down....poor spike doesn't have much time...
Someone has to. Will it be Buffy? Who knows...

Lou
08/23/2006 08:19 pm
True Colors         
Sooo exciting - you're really hiking up the tension!
I'm just getting started!

Robyn
08/21/2006 12:22 pm
True Colors         
When trying to help Spike with the Ukesolrill I have a funny feeling the Buffy is going to have to take a good look at what is in her as well. She has shown the traits attributed to it several times, most notably the one that she was thinking of.
You know what? You might be right.:)

rayan
08/14/2006 05:16 am
True Colors         
i started reading this story for the first time a couple of hours ago and im hooked.....i cant believe what a bloody marvellous story this is.......just fantastic....i couldnt stop reading......hehe.....im anxiously awaiting the next chapter.....keep up the good work
*Big hug* Thank you for saying so! It's so great to know that people love this story. :D

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/13/2006 11:19 pm
True Colors         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.
Hang in there with him and keep reading. Okay?

vladt
08/13/2006 09:41 pm
True Colors         
great read, thank you. interesting that the ukesolrill sense so much power in spike. buffy should have some help when she enters the battle.
She should...if she's able to tell the difference between the mask and the one buried beneath it.

fallen_angel
08/13/2006 09:25 pm
True Colors         
Go Buffy!
I second that!

Miss Rose
08/13/2006 01:29 pm
True Colors         
The incantation was really intriguing, especially the part about the forces of light purifying the unclean vessel. Actually getting the chance to read the Ukesolrill's POV was also very interesting. I loved the fact that Buffy found Spike, and got the chance to see the beautiful colors of Spike and William's souls. Wonderful chapter!
Travers may have called something forth that he wasn't intending to. :)

pretty_in_fangs
08/13/2006 09:10 am
True Colors         
Oh, Go, Buffy, Go! I love the imagery of Spike and William. I'm glad that Buffy and Willow got a chance to see it.
Spike and William have a sybiotic relationship, much like the baddie here. Be true to what you really are...and you may be able to free yourself from any prison. :)

kim
08/13/2006 07:31 am
True Colors         
Interesting idea, Buffy, but probably a bit too simple.

Love the description of Spike's insides...white and blue...yeah...

I actually feel a bit sorry for the Ukesolrill, at least with what happened to it originally. The spell calls it a warrior...from human eyes, it might be viewed as evil, but that doesn't mean it was inherently so. It was a predator, and could have been quite primitive.

But the situation sucks.
You are right. And you will see in coming installments that, evil really depends on your veiwpoint. Hope you enjoy.

08/13/2006 07:04 am
True Colors         
Oh she found him, now to go back in and get him. Their love will bring that through. *keeping fingers crossed* just love the fic. Thanks.
It may not be as simple as that. Buffy may have to look in a mirror before she can get Spike back. Will she like what she sees? :)

09/22/2006 06:34 am
An Act Of Contrition         
there's the slayer we all know and love :) hope they can beat this thing soon...poor spike needs some relief...and so do i!
Soon...:)

Lou
08/23/2006 08:12 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
I like Battling Buffy.
Me too!

Robyn
08/21/2006 04:16 am
An Act Of Contrition         
The pain and guilt that William felt at the death of his sister was heartbreaking. I hope that Spike’s idea of making the demon sick with too much emotion works.
He might be on to something...

kim
08/08/2006 11:40 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
The demon's retreating to wrap around the soul, William's at the forefront, and the body is still exhausted. *sigh*

Definitely not a standard Slayer operation. She won't be able to bash now, ask questions later. And their time is extremely limited because the monster binds with Spike the longer it's there.

I miss Mouse, too.
Not the Slayer's M.O. I know. She'll have to think her way out of this one. And as for Mouse, he will be back don't worry! :)

vladt
08/08/2006 09:05 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
sad and very good update. thank you. it seems as buffy and spike have the same idea.
Not exactly the same. But if they work together...

kim
08/08/2006 07:05 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
So sad...and the team seems to be one step behind...not quite grasping what's going on. Dawn understands Spike better than the rest, but she doesn't have the tools to help. And this isn't a situation for standard Slayer thinking.
Aren't they always? And you're right, this isn't the standard slayer thing. This calls for tact and forward thinking- all things a Slayer, in particular Buffy, doesn't have. How ever will she cope...? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/08/2006 02:17 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Dawn and Spike,with Spike thinking that Dawn is Emma.
That appology *may not* have been all "William" after all.

Miss Rose
08/08/2006 01:54 pm
An Act Of Contrition         
What a clever plan Spike came up with, and i'm so glad Buffy is forming a plan too. The flashback was so sad. :( But i'm really enjoying this journey into Spike's past, and I can't wait to find out what Spike's next memory will be. Great chapter.
I think it's clever as well. Maybe there's more to "Spike" than just "Fists and fangs?" What do you think?

08/08/2006 08:28 am
An Act Of Contrition         
Buffy's going into Spike's mind like Willow did for her, find and kill this thing and then she'll go looking for Spike. If all of this is going to be happening in his head, it's going to be very exciting, I can't begin to imagine all that she'll find there. Can't wait. Wonderful chapter. Thanks.
Should be exciting. I hope you can stay for the ride.

09/22/2006 06:32 am
Running Deep         
oh that's so sad...angelus and dru killed his family, didn't they? so very sad...and i hope he's right about the way to kill the thing...
They are dead. But not by Dru or Angel. Dru was more obsessed by William than even *she* knew. Remember how loyal Spike is? :) It might help.

Lou
08/23/2006 08:05 pm
Running Deep         
Battle stations?
Could be...:)

Robyn
08/21/2006 03:56 am
Running Deep         
It looks like Spike has figured out a way to fight the demon. The memory of William and his little sister was so sweet and it shows how natural his caring, giving nature is.
William's memories may have shaped more of who Spike is than he's even aware of. Maybe there's more of William holding sway with Spike than we thought? :)

fallen_angel
08/13/2006 09:13 pm
Running Deep         
Spike's such a great brother...
Yeah, he really is. :)

vladt
08/04/2006 09:50 pm
Running Deep         
very good update, thank you. dawn makes her peace with spike. now, the name emma will confuse all of them.
Maybe not all... :)

pretty_in_fangs
08/04/2006 09:31 pm
Running Deep         
VERY interesting. Now, is that a real memory? Or one manufactured by the Ukesolrill to create an emotional response?
Real or imagined...Hmm, I think Emma's been mentioned before. You tell me. But, does it really matter? He still gets emotional, and that could be bad for everyone.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/04/2006 03:33 pm
Running Deep         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.Emma seems like such a sweet girl.
She is. And Spike is on the way out of this, but will Buffy realize it?

08/04/2006 03:28 am
Running Deep         
No one writes very much about his family other than his mother of course, Wonder why he's remembering her? To help as he hides? Glad Dawn understands his need for quite, while we all wait. Another great chapter, thank you so much for it. You can't update soon enough for me. Love it.
Maybe he's trying to..."short-circut" the thing that has him trapped? :)

Miss Rose
08/04/2006 03:20 am
Running Deep         
I liked Dawn's scene with Spike, i'm glad she got a chance to tell Spike how she feels. Looks like Spike has a plan, if he's feeling that good about it then so am I. The interaction between Spike and Emma in the flashback was wonderful, and Dru showing up was really a surprise. I'm really enjoying how you're fleshing out William's past. Loved the chapter!
It may be a little scary for a while...but please trust the story, and this authour's love for the couple. I think you will be surprised.

kim
08/04/2006 03:17 am
Running Deep         
What an idea...to have Dru seeing young William that far back and knowing he would be hers...and Angelus even let her give the doll back...very interesting.

That scene with his little sister was so sweet and tender. She must have looked on him as her brave protector. Dawn's innocent faith in him must have brought that all back, when he met her.

Still weird thinking of Xander as dead. It's done so rarely.
I always thought the brotherly protectivness of Sawn wasn't a new idea to Spike. And, the fact that Willow killed Xander will come into play in the next few chapters; so watch for it.

09/22/2006 06:29 am
Endgame         
okay...i hope i'm getting this...so...if the thing is a vampire killer created by the original council...why does it want to kill buffy...unless...spike's talking about his demon, and losing control of it? hmmm....maybe i'm not supposed to get it at this point? :)
Okay...The slave usually obeys the master, that being the Council. The Ukesolrill "belongs" to the Council. Travers saw Buffy as a corruption of the Slayer line...so, since there's a phopescy about a vampire with a soul, and a stubborn Slayer...to quotw Warren, "Two birds,one stone."

Robyn
08/21/2006 03:26 am
Endgame         
I love Buffy's determination to be there for Spike.
Me too!

vladt
08/02/2006 01:30 am
Endgame         
very good read, thanks. but i have little confidence that giles will interpret the information in away to help spike.
Maybe not. But if Buffy and Giles work together they could get this rescue pulled off.

Lou
08/01/2006 11:06 pm
Endgame         
Methinks she should listen to Spike. Suspense time!
I think you might be right. :)

Miss Rose
08/01/2006 03:00 pm
Endgame         
This new information Giles found was very intriguing, and more than a little scary, poor Spike it's so awful he has that thing inside of him. As usual I loved the Spuffy interaction. My heart ached for Spike when he misread Buffy's reasons for not being able to look at him, I enjoyed reading both Spike and Buffy's inner thoughts throughout the chapter. I can't wait to find out what happens when Willow and Giles return. Wonderful chapter.
Yeah, it is scary. Can Spike ever catch a break? Buffy is important here. Maybe more than she knows. Willow and Rupert are bringing back crucial info. Let's hope they get to Devon quickly.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
08/01/2006 02:53 pm
Endgame         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike and stupid Watchers!
Watchers can be very short-sighted, it's true. Thanks for reading.

08/01/2006 01:49 pm
Endgame         
I hate Travers! And I can't even wish him dead anymore because he already dead! Ok I'll improvise, I hope you're making him burn in hell!
People that have power, or had it, can be really scary. And don't worry, Q is nice and warm. :)

kim
08/01/2006 09:54 am
Endgame         
Hmmmm....

An interesting take to explain exactly what it was...

If each Slayer makes it stronger, than what does it progressively do to each Slayer?
Remember how...witchy Buffy was after she died-each time? What do you think it did?

08/01/2006 08:42 am
Endgame         
Poor Spike, so afraid of hurting her. Hopefully Giles and Willow will dicover something through the monks to help. Great chapter Please update again soon, sitting on pins and needles here, I'm so worried for them both.
Giles will, don't worry. I'll be updating soon. Thanks for reviewing!

09/22/2006 06:22 am
Catharsis         
oh wow...that was so heart-breaking...poor spike...is the thing destroying his soul? hope that buffy *can* help him...
More like numbing it. Remember what a &%$@# Buffy was after she "died"? I think maybe she might be able to.

Robyn
08/21/2006 03:07 am
Catharsis         
I really hope that Buffy will stay strong for Spike and continue to follow her instincts and help him.
Self-reflection can take a lot out of you. Let's hope she's strong enough.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/29/2006 02:54 am
Catharsis         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.
Thank you so much!

vladt
07/29/2006 02:28 am
Catharsis         
powerful read, thank you. glad to see buffy instictively finding a way to help him.eve if she doesn't know it.
It's when Buffy thinks too much that things get mucked up.

Miss Rose
07/29/2006 02:08 am
Catharsis         
Your doing an amazing job with the scenes between Buffy and Spike they're so emotionally driven and incredibly well written. Willow asked a really interesting question about the Ukesolrill, I look forward to finding out what the answer is. Wonderful chapter!
I don't know where it all comes from, really. I just write what the muse tells me. It is a good question. I wanna know the answer too! Keep reading...pretty please.

pretty_in_fangs
07/29/2006 01:39 am
Catharsis         
It had to be protected. It couldn’t be found, because if it were, all that she could love, and the hope that, maybe one day, she would love, would wither and die.

And, if that happened, the demon knew that it would not continue. It would stop. It would die.

Beautiful description. I love the image of the demon as the protector of the soul.
They had an agreement, remember? What is Spike if he's *not* a protector?

VWalk
07/29/2006 12:35 am
Catharsis         
Very tender. Poor Spike... he's been through so much already, and it just keeps coming. I dont want him to lose his soul - not after he fought so hard for it.
Glad that Buffy is finally pulling her head out of her a** and realizing some things about herself.
Great chapter, great story. Looking for the next installment.
Spike's well-being kinda hinges on Buffy right now. That's all I'm saying...:)

Lou
07/28/2006 11:26 pm
Catharsis         
Great chapter. Powerful.
Thank you!

kim
07/28/2006 11:01 pm
Catharsis         
Ah, a fresh mind can do wonders, eh, Giles? Willow's question is a good one. Where does the demon essence float when it's traveling from slayer to slayer? And is the same demon's essence in both Faith and Buffy, or is there more than one Ukesolrill?

Poor Spike...the soul is dying no matter how hard he tries to protect it. Nice to see Buffy being honest with herself finally.
Here's hoping that Buffy can handle a broken vampire. How she handles this could mean the world to Spike.

07/28/2006 11:00 pm
Catharsis         
Kill the slayer? Can't wait to see what that's about. It's just so damn sad, glad she's there for him,at last. Angsty and tender chapter. Thanks for the read.
No, not killing Buffy...again. But she has died before...:)

09/21/2006 02:55 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
well, you're right...tissue warning indeed, pet...a beautiful chapter :)
:)

sirc
09/01/2006 06:24 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
Great chapter :)
Thank you. Glad you liked it.

Robyn
08/21/2006 02:34 am
Orange-Colored Sky         
This chapter should have had a tissue warning as well. I love how Buffy realized that she and Spike needed contact and I loved how it was phrased ‘pure and healing’. What a beautiful definition of love. By doing what is so hard for her and letting down all barriers while reaching out for Spike she managed to help him also reach her.
Happy-tears, right?:)

Joan
07/25/2006 08:18 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
Beautifully written! We don't get to see tender Buffy often enough.
Tender is tough for Buffy...and it may be more help than she knows. :)

margaret
07/25/2006 06:25 am
Orange-Colored Sky         
what a beautifully written chapter. thank you. can't wait to see all the twists and turns. just exactly who was giles' ancestor?
Wow...the hints must be subtle, but they are there. And here I tought it was a Big Blinking Bad Arrow. There's another hint...I'm not saying outright for the people who want to be surprised. Sorry. Did the hint help? :)

vladt
07/24/2006 08:05 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
excellent update. happy to see buffy reach him and provide strength. thanks for the fine read.
Hopefully Spike is strong enough to stay on the "outside" for a little while.

Miss Rose
07/24/2006 01:43 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
Yay! Spike is communicating again, and what a clever way to make it happen. The fact that love and some sweet kisses was all it took for Buffy to reach Spike really touched my heart. I'm really looking forward to Giles's return, I enjoyed the intense flashback. Excellent chapter! :)
Love is a hard thing for Buffy to express. What's easy for us isn't easy for her. And remember the baddie isn't gone yet...

Lou
07/24/2006 01:32 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
Wow. The Power of Love. Beautifully done!
There's nothing better!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/24/2006 12:28 pm
Orange-Colored Sky         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.
Okay. :)

kim
07/24/2006 05:26 am
Orange-Colored Sky         
5 days...that's a lot of searching. It would make antsy, too.

Couple more clues to what Giles recognized, but there's still lots more to reveal about the past.

Poor Spike...at least he knows they're really there.
Hmm...I thought the clues were a little more straightforward than that. I guess not. Spike has a long way to go but at least now he can ask for the help he might need.

Verda
07/24/2006 05:12 am
Orange-Colored Sky         
That was so tender and beautiful. He needed that so much and so did she. I do hope that Giles finds out about his and Spike's connection while looking for a way to help him. Just wonderful chapter, thank you so much, update soon!
Thank you! I figured the dark needed to let up a little. Glad you liked it.

09/21/2006 02:53 pm
The Still Waters         
oh good...idea is good....let's get it going, old man!!! :P
It could be harmful to those Spike cares about. When this is over, do you think he'll understand the reasoning, if it costs him someone he loves?

Robyn
08/21/2006 02:21 am
The Still Waters         
Poor Spike he’s in a catch 22, he knows that to survive he needs to go so deep in himself the creature can’t get him but he also knows that for him to survive he needs Dawn, Buffy, and his dreams. I hope that Giles’ plan works, but even if they are able to remove the Ukesolrill from Spike he will still have a long road to follow for his recovery.
It is a quagmire, but don't count Spike out yet!:)

MARGARET
07/23/2006 01:25 am
The Still Waters         
PLEASE LETS HELP SPIKE SOON, THANKS FOR THE FAST UPDATE. VERY TISSUE INDUCING
Yes,very, hence the warning. But Giles has a plan, so not all hope is lost.

vladt
07/21/2006 11:50 pm
The Still Waters         
great read, thanks
Thanks for reading!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/21/2006 02:30 pm
The Still Waters         
Good chapter.Update soon.I hope that Spike's going to be okay,and the peace thing will happen.
Maybe...:) let's hope.

sirc
07/21/2006 01:32 pm
The Still Waters         
great chapter :)
Thanks!

Lou
07/21/2006 12:38 pm
The Still Waters         
Yikes - that should be too easy!
Not easy at all.

Lou
07/21/2006 12:37 pm
The Still Waters         
God that was tough! Travers got off to easy!
Yep. He really did. But, sometimes the world doesn't work perfectly, especially with people in it.

kim
07/21/2006 09:31 am
The Still Waters         
Well, I didn't cry, but I'm definitely sad.

And Giles is scaring me...
There's more to Giles than the tweed, we all know that. But scaring you? Why is that?

Miss Rose
07/21/2006 07:25 am
The Still Waters         
Oh thank goodness Giles has a plan! You weren't kidding when you said there was a tissue warning in this chapter. :( It was so hard to read Spike's heartwrenching pleas for help. But i'm feeling very positive about whatever Giles has in mind. I'll be eagerly awaiting the next update. Great chapter.
He does have a plan. But will Buffy and he be able to reach Spike in time...?

Verda
07/21/2006 05:33 am
The Still Waters         
OK guys, lets get this ship sailing because I hate to see him in so much pain. He needs to be rewarded for his soul, not punished even more. Thanks for the update, hope you can update again soon.
The punishment portion of this will be ending soon. But the journey has just begun.

09/21/2006 02:50 pm
Means To An End         
they have to try, and they have to do it now, because every moment they wait makes it more dangerous for him....and them...this is intense, love...can't wait to read more :)
But Buffy's never been quick. And Giles likes to talk things out. Any waiting could mean danger.

Robyn
08/21/2006 02:11 am
Means To An End         
Giles’ confirming Dawn’s thought about Spike and his news to Buffy about the Ukesolrill made me start to tear up. Spike seems to know that he needs to hide from it, not let it get to him, I just hope that the others will be able to figure out how to help him from the outside soon.
Outside help could be tough. That means that Buffy will have to acknoledge her feelings. That's not easy for her.

pramen
07/18/2006 09:44 pm
Means To An End         
I think it's time for Spike to come back...please? Great update!
As soon as he thinks it's safe to do so,I'm sure he'll come round.

Lou
07/17/2006 09:47 pm
Means To An End         
Travers was monstrous! Giles will have to excel himself here.
Yep. Let's hope Giles can step up and help.

sirc
07/17/2006 10:06 am
Means To An End         
And more is revealed!...
Great chapter :D
In dribs and drabs. Please keep reading.

vladt
07/17/2006 03:33 am
Means To An End         
giles will come up with the wrong answer. it is probably up to dawn and buffy to figure out the correct one. great update, great tale thank you.
Spike may already have the answer. But, how will he tell anyone when he can barely move?

falllen-angel
07/16/2006 11:03 am
Means To An End         
Oh God!
I second that thought.

SpaceLord
07/16/2006 10:40 am
Means To An End         
Hmm that Travers sure is insane.....hmm I thought that fighting for peace and all was their mission but apparantly not.....isn't that a kicker.
isn't though? :P No one likes to be useless.

Verda
07/16/2006 07:26 am
Means To An End         
Now what are they to do. He's trying so hard to keep hidden from the evil. Well Giles better get his butt back and find a way to remove this thing before it can't be removed with out killing him. Oh this is good! Exciting and suspenseful. Thanks for the great update.
Spike may have already found it. Do you remember "Duck and Cover?" Well this time, it might work!

Miss Rose
07/16/2006 07:11 am
Means To An End         
Wow! This was one informative update. The extent of Quentin's evilness was positively mind boggling. The info about the Ukesolrill is so discouraging, no wonder poor Spike is in hiding. I like how determined Buffy is though, loved her line about always finding him. Wonderful chapter.
Not all hope is lost, Rose. :)

kim
07/16/2006 05:48 am
Means To An End         
A vicious curse on a being like Spike. Has there ever been such an emotional vampire? At least he understands what it's feeding on, smart boy.

Even older than that, Buffy, if you count human years. He was about 28 when he was turned.

Okay, Giles, work on a remedy, 'cause there's really not much time. So, the Council made him head man, huh? I guess he did still have some noticeable influence.
It sure is. And Spike is smart. Now if only he could get the message out to the others.

margaret
07/16/2006 05:27 am
Means To An End         
poor spike, now the thoughts he's having are starting to make sense. i hope buffy and dawn can fix this...dawn's green key energy is older than the demon isn't it?
Yes. But remember what Dawn was going to be used for? Evil can recognise its own.

09/21/2006 02:47 pm
Eggshells         
oh no...what did that monster do to him????
Nothing good, that's for sure...

Robyn
08/21/2006 01:49 am
Eggshells         
Dawn really is growing up. Spike’s thoughts and his desire to continue to protect Dawn and Buffy made me ache for him and get all teary-eyed.
To grow up you have to look at your "heros" as whole people, fallible and breakable. Dawn is starting to see this- it's a good thing, I think.

sirc
07/17/2006 09:56 am
Eggshells         
great chapter
Thank you!

Verda
07/15/2006 07:22 am
Eggshells         
Please tell us what the prophecy is? What is in there that wants to kill them all and where did it come from? Has it been in him all the time or is it like the First and using him? So many questions...and only you have the answers! Now I'm going to beg like everyone else for updates. Please! You know I love it.
I've given you portions of it, the parts Quentin was working with. Some of it still is lost. Quentin was more of a monster than Spike could ever be. Remember the headaches Quentin asked about? No, this is not the First evil. But this does go back to the beginning...so...:)

07/14/2006 07:31 pm
Eggshells         
Oh my dear, so talented, Wendy! I have been reading but unable to post (still iffy most of the time)......This story is captivating!

LOVE the intereaction with the characters. I have always been a sucker for Dawn and Spike friendship and it is wonderfully shown here.

Poor Spike trying to save his loved ones and frustrated by not being understood. My money is on Giles figuring it out enough to help his uncle (?) William. (and can't wait for his reaction to learning the connection with the vampire!)

Just keep it coming it is a masterwork hon.

Kathleen
*Jumping for joy* Wahooo! you're back! Thanks so much for the comments. This thing that Spike's dealing with may be the worst yet. (Our normally animated hero being still as the um...dead? There's got to be a reason.) Please keep reading and comment when you can.

07/14/2006 12:55 pm
Eggshells         
:what: :-( If Travers wasn't already dead, I'd go kill him! Does Giles know he's related to Spike?
No. Only Spike knows that.

vladt
07/14/2006 06:43 am
Eggshells         
typical giles. has decided it is too late for spike. glad dawn sees that something is wrong. thanks for the great update.
It's not too late...but Giles has always been a "Glass half empty" person.

kim
07/14/2006 04:54 am
Eggshells         
Parasite/possession...I had a fear of that, when Spike kept talking about holding something back, not letting it hurt his family. I thought for a second he meant the demon, but that doesn't work because the demon loves them just as much.

Released an Old One, even?
No this isn't Illyria. Could be something muvh more damaging to Spike.

07/14/2006 01:02 am
Eggshells         
Another great chapter. Looking forward to finding out more about the prophecy.
Thanks!

SpaceLord
07/13/2006 11:40 pm
Eggshells         
Hmm what is Giles thinking? I mean if he suspects he needs to act and not hope.....better safe than sorry.
Spike was just now strong enough to get through to someone. It may not be Giles's fault. You can't fight what you cant see.

Miss Rose
07/13/2006 11:25 pm
Eggshells         
Yikes! This new development is absolutely terrifying. But at least on the upside Spike was able to get his message across to Dawn. I can't wait to learn more about what Quentin did. Great chapter.
Yes it is. This may be Travers's revenge from beyond...let's hope not.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/13/2006 11:14 pm
Eggshells         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike,Buffy,and Dawn.
Okay :)

09/21/2006 02:45 pm
Old Hats         
oh poor thing...he's so scared he's gonna hurt them, but he wouldn't...oh they have to convince him that it's ok to come out...
They will...but that might expose him to a new danger...:)

Robyn
08/21/2006 01:42 am
Old Hats         
Buffy really got it right when Dawn asked what happened to him. I love how determined Spike is to keep those he cares for safe, it really shows what type of person he is.
William has never been far from the surface. Buffy knows because she's been through so much herself.

Verda
07/15/2006 07:09 am
Old Hats         
Poor soul, he loves them all so much, it's so hard to see him like this, still trying to protect them even in his mind. One more 'til I'm caught up, then I must wait like the rest of your fans. Another heart-wrenching chapter. Incredible story.
It's what he does. What more can I say?

vladt
07/13/2006 01:23 am
Old Hats         
giles killed travers much too quickly and much too gently. great update to a fantastic tale.
But Spike is "out" at the moment. I haven't explained why Giles did what he did. Vengence is swift. If I waited for Spike to be set right before it was meted out, it might never come. And, it would only prove Travers's point.

pramen
07/12/2006 07:42 pm
Old Hats         
poor Spike, can you please make him feel better soon? Great chapter!
It'll be a while. Please be patient.:)

kim
07/12/2006 04:20 am
Old Hats         
So what did the bastard set up?

They're going to have a really hard time reaching Spike before his physical pain is reduced. He'd have a hard time thinking straight with all his body went through, let alone his mind.
Read and find out. It may have something to do with why Spike is "hiding."

07/12/2006 01:17 am
Old Hats         
Can we killl Travers again????? Grrrrrr
I'm all for that!:)

pretty_in_fangs
07/11/2006 11:13 pm
Old Hats         
Beautiful chapter. Just lovely.
Thanks!

Lou
07/11/2006 10:52 pm
Old Hats         
Excellent chapter - but gruelling! Poor Spike is so broken.
yep, he really is, but it;ll be better. I promise.

Miss Rose
07/11/2006 09:27 pm
Old Hats         
Poor Spike, I feel so bad for him. :( The Quentin flashback was really disturbing. Any man that knows he's facing death and is acting that cocky can't be of the good. Can't wait to find out what happens next. Great chapter as always.
Meant to be...He was a teal creep. And Spike is on the long road home now.

SpaceLord
07/11/2006 09:27 pm
Old Hats         
Poor Spike....wonder what old Travers had set up and how that is to play out. Should be fun to learn.
Read and find out.

MARGARET
07/11/2006 09:19 pm
Old Hats         
THANK GOODNESS SPIKE IS RESCUED. CAN BUFFY GET HIM OUT OF HIS DELUSIONAL STATE? PLEASE UPDATE SOON
Not delusional, though he is extremely stressed.

fallen_angel
07/11/2006 07:44 pm
Old Hats         
I think i'm gonna be sick...I can't stand pain or torture at the moment. *shudder*
I hope you continue to read though.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/11/2006 07:28 pm
Old Hats         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.He's most likely going to be suffering from PTSD with his reaction to that.
Most likely. There's no telling what could set Spike off. Buffy may have to tread lightly for a while.

09/21/2006 02:35 pm
Forget Me Not         
wow....i have tears of relief in my eyes..poor spike...now she needs to take him home and make it all better...
From the frying pan...

sirc
07/17/2006 09:34 am
Forget Me Not         
I got an error before, so apologies if this comes twice.

It confused me a bit to see Giles and Buffy get to cell fast enough to still see Travers. It didn't seem like enough time had passed, since they would need to drive there, find the right cell and be quick enough for Travers not have finished, yet. Giles seemed to know where to go, so that lessens the searching time, but there's still the getting there part. While Travers would want to be thorough and not too quick, I don't think he would have too much time that would have been needed if Buffy and Giles drove there. So, maybe they did a teleportation spell?

I guess I'll see that in the following chapters. Sorry about ranting. I really did like and I hope I didn't sound the opposite.
Through the magic of my imagination- and a little date tag that you may have missed- four days have passed between Buffy's arrival and the ruscue. So much bad can happen in ninety-six hours. :)

Verda
07/15/2006 06:38 am
Forget Me Not         
Thank you! thankyou thankyou. I yelled so loud, I scared my poor kitty, James. To easy for him, way to easy, he deserved worse soooo much worse. Can't wait to see Rupert's reaction when he finds out the connection. Another amazing chapter.
Oh your poor cat! I agree, he did deseve worse. Spike however is in no condition, and so it falls to the next generation. Giles may not find out. Spike has kept the secret this long, why not a little longer?

pretty_in_fangs
07/07/2006 05:57 pm
Forget Me Not         
Oh my.
:) It's not all dark, I promise.

Miss Rose
07/07/2006 06:05 am
Forget Me Not         
*breathes a sigh of relief* Thank you so much for the quick rescue, i'm so relieved Spike is finally out of Quentin's evil clutches! I can't wait to find out where the story goes now that Spike has been reunited with his loved ones. Fantastic chapter! :)
You're very welcome. It'll be a while. They have to find out what Quentin wanted Spike for in the first place.

Robyn
07/07/2006 05:51 am
Forget Me Not         
As much as I would like Quentin to be given even a part of what he gave Spike, I like the way he was stopped, shot down with far less consideration then would be given a rabid animal. I really hope that Buffy will be able to reach Spike, and do we get to find out what happened between Giles finding the video and them finding Spike? Thanks for the update, it was nice to see that they have found Spike.
The rescue will be spelled out in the next chapter.

vladt
07/07/2006 02:19 am
Forget Me Not         
very good read, thanks. if spike isn't imagining this, it way to easy on travers.
Not dreaming.

07/07/2006 01:12 am
Forget Me Not         
*snorts* oh yeah can Willow raise him where we can kill him again??? :P
Don't worry, flashbacks can be fun. You get the play-by-play. :P

DeanSamWinchesterfan
07/07/2006 01:08 am
Forget Me Not         
Good chapter.Update soon.I'm glad Spike's rescued now.
Me too! :)

Lou
07/06/2006 10:44 pm
Forget Me Not         
Great chapter -- such gruesome torture for Spike and such well-crafted drama at the end! Kudos!
Thank you so much!

fallen_angel
07/06/2006 07:53 pm
Forget Me Not         
wait what's in the pictures?
Why Spike's family of course!

SpaceLord
07/06/2006 06:26 pm
Forget Me Not         
Hmm so I take it that William and Rupert are related in your little world then? Sweet.

Yep. After "Band Candy" I had to do it! :P

kim
07/06/2006 05:48 pm
Forget Me Not         
They mounted a rescue that quick? I think someone's dreaming...

Good to see Lydia's not too bad off. All of it recoverable.

Cauterizing the fang holes - that's just mean!
Not so fast. I know it's easy to miss, but the last time I gave you a date Willow was answering doors and waiting for Buffy. :) Where did four days go?

09/21/2006 02:30 pm
Secrets         
oh man....what is travers doing now?? buffy needs to hurry and find him...he's really going to lose his mind before long...
Maybe that's what Travers wants?

~*~Tasha~*~
07/23/2006 12:11 am
Secrets         
{growls at Travers} You are writing this very well, but it is hard to read the darker stuff. I might skip ahead to the last chapter you have up and see if it is light enough to help bring it around. Otherwise I might have to stop reading for another day. Sorry.
Rescue coming very soon. Ripper makes a breif but memorable appearance. Then, the real battle begins...

Verda
07/15/2006 06:01 am
Secrets         
Wanted to finish this, this morning, but kept getting Fatal error, finally got the rest of the night to myself. Just love it when writers use Giles as Spike's nephew. Since most writers don't review old chapters, I was surprised that you did and I appreciate it as well. BtVS writers may have wanted Sid Vicious persona, but James is to hot not to be compared to Billy Idol, and that's face it, "Rebel Yell" doesn't get any badder than that. And you, dear girl, have emotions pouring off these pages. Great chapter. Thanks.
I am always interested in new readers and what they think. About Billy...I toyed with the idea of giving our, "William" the sirname "Broad," which as it happens, is the name on Billy Idol's birth record. :P

07/04/2006 07:12 pm
Secrets         
Ugh, Travers, ugh! He's so evil! It's about time Buffy and Giles got to England though.

Did I mention- Travers = ugh! lol, great update, can't wait for more :)
Yeah, I think you did. :) I'm working on the next chapter. It should be up very soon.

sirc
07/04/2006 01:24 pm
Secrets         
great chapter
Thanks

Robyn
07/02/2006 02:57 pm
Secrets         
What a fantastic update, you are doing a great job of showing that Quentin’s evilness is not because of misplaced beliefs but because of his desire for power and control. I also like how Spike is using the pain from the horrors that has been committed against him to fight from giving into Quentin.
Thank you so much for the comment. I sometimes think that I get too caught up in the motives and not in the action of a story. I worry that I bore readers with my involved characterisations, so I am glad you're staying with it.

As for Quentin- we all know power corrupts, and those who have power tend to do unspeakable things to hold it and gain more. When this all comes to light... I wouldn't want to be Travers. It could get messy.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/30/2006 11:59 pm
Secrets         
Good chapter.Update soon.After being rescued,I can see Spike suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Could be...:)

Lou
06/30/2006 10:05 am
Secrets         
Could Travers be more evil? Now there's a real monster! Giles needs to get his finger out.
He sure is evil, isn't he? And, I don't think Giles is the problem. He dosen't see the entire picture yet, after all.

Miss Rose
06/30/2006 06:24 am
Secrets         
Oh my gosh! Travers just keeps getter more diabolical with each new chapter. The insight into his way of thinking was really scary, he's so desparate to hold onto his beliefs. I'm really worried for Spike and Giles. Nice twist to have Spike and Giles related by the way. I'm really looking forward to when Giles gets his mail. Wonderful chapter!
The real evil is those who cannot accept change. I've always had the idea that they were related. Ever since "Band Candy." I have another story on SR with this particular plot twist, check it out if you like. Just click the "Authors" link. I know, shameless plug. :) I couldn't help it.

vladt
06/30/2006 04:42 am
Secrets         
excellent update, thanks . it seems travers has another ace to play. i am sure there is a joker or two in the deck, that he has overlooked. thanks for the read.
There is a power at work here that Quentin hasn't taken into account. :)

kim
06/30/2006 02:41 am
Secrets         
Heheheheh...Quentin's a pompous idiot.

And finally Buffy and Co. are in England. Hurry up and open your mail, Rupert!
He will don't worry.

06/30/2006 01:02 am
Secrets         
Another excellent chapter. Neat strategy to have Giles & Spike related. Travers is incredibly evil and I love Spike's resolve. Looking forward to Spike's rescue.
Thanks a bunch.

06/30/2006 01:02 am
Secrets         
Another excellent chapter. Neat strategy to have Giles & Spike related. Travers is incredibly evil and I love Spike's resolve. Looking forward to Spike's rescue.
Thanks again!

fallen_angel
06/30/2006 12:39 am
Secrets         
Here's a plan, you let us into your story for a while, we kill Travers and then come out or we could get Harry potter to do it?
You could do that- but then Giles couldn't have any fun! :P

09/21/2006 07:43 am
In Camera         
oh no...travers is just so evil...i'm ready for spike to get rescued, get some tlc...poor baby...
:)

~*~Tasha~*~
07/23/2006 12:08 am
In Camera         
Wicked cruel sadistic and evil bastard that Travers is. I don't know how much more of this I can take. {Sighs and cries}
I didn't like writing some of this either. But...just who is the monster here?

Verda
07/14/2006 10:01 am
In Camera         
That's really sick, ripping out his fangs, but they'll grow back. Hopefully sooner than later. Who know that he still had family, sick, sick man.
No one...except Spike. And, yes Travers is a very sick and evil man.

sirc
07/04/2006 01:19 pm
In Camera         
great chapter
thank

vladt
06/25/2006 02:34 am
In Camera         
fantastic read. thank you. hopefully quentin will reap what he has sown. thanks again.
The man is fond of quoting the Book of Proverbs. I think he may have forgotten one...:)

MARGARET
06/24/2006 10:12 pm
In Camera         
I'M FOLLOWING THIS STORY WITH BATED BREATH. CAN SPIKE PLEASE BE RESCUED SOON AND THE EVIL WATCHERS BE BEATED TO DEATH!( OR SORT OF). CAN'T WAIT FOR HE NEXT INSTALLMENT THANKS
I love Spike as much as any of us here. I won't let him suffer a minute longer than the story calls for. Don't worry.

Lou
06/24/2006 06:47 pm
In Camera         
What a swine!
Preaching to the converted here!

Bridget
06/24/2006 05:46 pm
In Camera         
I certainly hope Spike gets some help soon and I hope that sadistic Quentin gets what is coming to him. Please update soon.
Spike and his "family" will be giving Quentin what he deserves soon.

DeanSamWinchesternfan
06/24/2006 03:00 pm
In Camera         
Good chapter.Update soon.Poor Spike.I can see him falling apart in somebody's arms.
Me too! :) But she has to find him first.

kim
06/24/2006 01:52 pm
In Camera         
Oh! I think I know who the descendent is...but I won't say anything yet, so the others can be surprised.
Good! Now, shhh...:)

Robyn
06/24/2006 01:24 pm
In Camera         
This chapter made me literally feel sick with both worry for Spike and his family, the horror of what is being done to him, and the evilness of Quentin. Ripping out his fangs and torturing him is horrible but to add the threat against his family is beyond the pale. Thanks for the update, I love reading your stories because of how well you are able to draw me in and have me react to what is happening with the characters.
Thank you for the kind words. I too was sick to my stomach, because as I write, I see pictures in my head before I write a chapter or scene. This one woke me up in the middle of the night. The good guys will get up to speed soon.

kim
06/24/2006 10:24 am
In Camera         
They pulled his fangs?????!! Oh god...they'll grow back, but it's not a quick thing. And now Quentin wants him to kill his family? He won't do it. He'd die first. That's what Quentin doesn't get.
I think the implication was that if Spike doesn't do what Quentin wants, it could be bad for the family's health.

SpaceLord
06/24/2006 08:57 am
In Camera         
I find this guilt about killing humans to be extremly boring and not very bevlievable at all really. I'm of the firm belief that most people would have very little trouble killing another human being given the right circumstances and feel very little guilt about it. I would say that those who wouldn't are more exceptions to the rule than not. I can understand that souled Angel and Spike might feel bad about taking pleasure in torturing people and such but to kill to save one self I just think is rather pathetic.
I understand your point completely. Here's mine. In his rational mind, Spike, and I for that matter, would agree with you. Why do you think he attempted that in the first place? To *Get Out* of there! Are you telling me that a crazy thought can't run through a charater's mind, or a RL person's, when faced with stress and pain that is unthinkable? Please stay with me.

pretty_in_fangs
06/24/2006 08:33 am
In Camera         
OOOOOOOOH! I hate Travers. You play his evil so well. Grrr.
Thank you so much. I dislike him emmensely as well.

Miss Rose
06/24/2006 06:32 am
In Camera         
Poor Spike! Things are so bleak right now, I could cry. I can see why you had such a hard time writing this chapter. *sends you a big hug* But you did an excellent job of showing us just how much of a monster Quentin really is. I'm really looking forward to the day Travers gets what's coming to him. I hope Giles gets to his mail soon! Great chapter.
Thanks. *Hugs you back* Quentin really is the monster here. What Quentin gets may depend on who is in those pictures on the wall. I hope I haven't given the person away just yet. But, if I have...Shh don't tell okay? :)

09/21/2006 07:39 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
oh i hope they see that tape in time...
The rescue is coming.

~*~Tasha~*~
07/23/2006 12:04 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Eeek ... I hope that Giles finds the tape. {whimpers}
He will. I promise. :)

Verda
07/14/2006 09:51 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Smart womman, making a tape now let's hope that Willow doesn't forget that he's got it. Another wonderful part to this story.
You're welcome. Someone has to help Spike out!

sirc
07/04/2006 01:02 pm
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
great chapter
Thank you

vladt
06/25/2006 01:34 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
wonderful update, thank you.
you're welcome

06/22/2006 12:40 pm
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
when is someone going to open the mail?
Don't know... :)

Robyn
06/21/2006 07:17 pm
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
I love the precautions that Lydia took sending Giles what information she had, I'm looking forward to when he finds it. I like that Giles realized how much Spike means to him and that he was able to express it to Buffy. I loved the flash-back. Thanks for the update. :)
The good guys are finally growing up. That's tough sometimes.

margaret
06/21/2006 06:07 pm
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
just started to read this story and it's great. love all the african action. now can't wait for buffy to kick traver's butt! please update soon thanks
Glad you're enjoying it!

Lou
06/21/2006 12:11 pm
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Interesting back story.
Thanks. I wanted to fill in some gaps the show left. I hope you liked it.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/21/2006 03:38 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Good chapter.Update soon.
Thanks, will do!

Miss Rose
06/21/2006 01:46 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
What a powerful and very realistic flashback. I could totally imagine a conversation like that taking place during Buffy's depression, and I think it's great Spike's words are still giving Buffy encouragement. I'm still worried for Lydia, but i'm glad we know she sent the telegram to Giles. Wonderful chapter!
Gotta love a wise old man in a big leather coat! ;) Would I let our hero down? Of course the info will get to Giles and Buffy...sooner or later. :)

SpaceLord
06/21/2006 01:22 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Yes please Willow focus on the important of chatting with Dawn :)
She doesn't know how important the envelope is...be patient. :)

kim
06/21/2006 12:56 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Well done scene, with Buffy begging for the easy way out.

Dawn doesn't seem to have gotten a word in yet, with Willow on the verge of being manic in her nervousness.

Resulting to torture? He lived with Angelus and Darla. Quentin's going to have to think of a lot worse to get anything out of him that way.

Poor Lydia...that truck really did a number. Sending the parcel to Devon was brilliant, and Giles and Buffy will be there soon. I hope the ambulance isn't too late.
No easy way out for Buffy, or anyone else Spike cares about.

Willow does seem a bit hyper, dosen't she? I hope she remembers to tell Giles about the envelope.

Remember the sign at the zoo that says, "Do not feed the bear?" Quentin is getting awfully close to a very hungry, very brassed of vampire. He should be careful.

As for Lydia...we'll have to wait and see.

06/21/2006 12:49 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
excellent chappie, Quentin has Simba by the tail and ya know when he tries to let go he's gonna get gutted :P
Not gutted. But maybe...bitten?:)

pretty_in_fangs
06/21/2006 12:44 am
Goodbye, Professor Marvel         
Oh dear. So, how long does it sit there before they find it again?
Don't know...read on and then tell me. :)

09/21/2006 07:34 am
Whitewash         
oh no...he's finally hit on the way to break him...buffy needs to hurry...
Hope Spike can hold up...

~*~Tasha~*~
07/23/2006 12:00 am
Whitewash         
Uh oh ... That does not bode well for Lydia.

What did that bastard Travers do to Spike that Spike can't remember? {bites her nails}
No, it doesn't. But don't lose hope.

Verda
07/14/2006 09:39 am
Whitewash         
Good for Spike not giving in hope he can keep it up. Doubt very much if it was an accident, but will the message be sent? Great chapter.
Yep. :)

06/22/2006 12:26 pm
Whitewash         
OMG what did Travers make spike do?
May be nothing at all. Spike's alone, you know he doesn't do that well- and his only source of info is Travers. That could be bad for his mental heath.

vladt
06/18/2006 04:21 am
Whitewash         
very good chapter, even the end where we do not know if lydia sent the telegram. or will live to send it. thanks for the great read and leaving spike in dire straits.
Like to see Spike suffer, do you? Well, if it was all "Shiny, Happy, People" *props to Micheal Stipe* the story would be pretty boring. But, it has to end sometime. Or, does it? lol. :)

Nikkole
06/17/2006 06:32 pm
Whitewash         
I finally had the time to catch up on this story. I have not been able to read it since you posted chapter 7! I like the progression of the story. For once, I hope Lydia isn't dead. I can't wait to see more from this story!
I'm glad you're all caught up now. Things are starting to get good! :) Hope you enjoy the ride.

sirc
06/17/2006 06:11 pm
Whitewash         
great chapter
Thank you very much!

Robyn
06/17/2006 12:19 pm
Whitewash         
Wow, lots of twists and turns in this chapter I am looking forward to the follow-up. I loved Spike’s memories of his family, I wonder if Quentin has even a clue of the inner strength Spike possesses.
Quentin has no clue. But remember, the fears are just as strong- maybe stronger- than anything else inside of Spike. Quentin may know that. And, he may be using it to his advantage.

zanthinegirl
06/17/2006 02:42 am
Whitewash         
oh, you evil, vicious woman! (pets evil plot twist) that was truly cruel! Are you *sure* you don't actually work for ME?

Looking forward to the next crushing of poor Spike's hope!
I'll never tell...but in case I didn't work for them- thank you for saying that my writing is on par with those guys.:) In case I did- you should have heard the cain I raised during some of season six! :) I have to make my story worth reading, don't I?

Lou
06/17/2006 01:51 am
Whitewash         
Dramatic!!
Thank you! *takes bow* Keep reading please.

Miss Rose
06/17/2006 12:36 am
Whitewash         
Spike's memories of his family were really interesting. Poor Lydia, I feel so bad for her. Intriguing conversation between Spike and Travers. I'm really looking forward to finding out where things go from here. Great chapter!
It will be a fun ride. Staying with me, are you? You brave soul. :P

Pin
06/17/2006 12:21 am
Whitewash         
Oh, wow, they tried to kill Lydia! You are building a lot of suspense - this is a eally thriller and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Seems Quentin was watching and he doesn't want his dirty little secret to get out.

pretty_in_fangs
06/16/2006 11:55 pm
Whitewash         
Oh dear.
Keep reading...it will get better...I hope. :)

06/16/2006 11:52 pm
Whitewash         
Plotty goodness Yay :D
Plots need love too!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/16/2006 11:08 pm
Whitewash         
Good chapter.At least Spike is back.Update soon.
Yep, at least on the ouside.

09/21/2006 07:30 am
A Different Drummer         
oh no....i'm just aghast at the evil that the council is capable of...poor spike...
Are you really? I never trusted those guys.

~*~Tasha~*~
07/22/2006 11:57 pm
A Different Drummer         
{gulps} Oh my gosh ... dissect? Eeek!!

Good points int he chapter with Dawn and her realization. Glad for that. Buffy all with the gung ho I have to know where Spike is ... yippee there too. {Smiles}
I thought it was about time someone saw reason as to what Spike would and wouldn't do.

Verda
07/14/2006 09:29 am
A Different Drummer         
Did I miss something, because if they aren't going to England then who called Dawn and asked her to meet them there? Tarvers? Baiting Dawn like a worm on a hook? and eewwwww how much can you dissect before he's dust, that's just a gruesome thought. Thanks for that distrubing chapter! still love it!
No, you didn't miss anything. They have telephones in Africa.

06/22/2006 12:23 pm
A Different Drummer         
Glad Dawn finally worked outher issues somewhat.
She has more work to do.

sirc
06/15/2006 09:38 pm
A Different Drummer         
great chapter
Thanks X5! :)

vladt
06/15/2006 08:44 am
A Different Drummer         
excellent update. so many highlights. spike, knowing not to escape; dawn, finally understanding; and giles being an idiot. fantastic read, thank you
Thank you for reading.

Robyn
06/14/2006 01:21 pm
A Different Drummer         
I love what Spike did for Lydia and I loved his inner talk while working things out. He was right he had started seeing humans as more then food a long time before the soul. I also really liked Dawn's trip down memory lane and Buffy's comment when Giles said he didn't know. Thanks for another great update.
As someone might say,"There's no advantage to hurt someone trying to help him." Paraphrasing Wesley a bit there. Giles does tend to revert to stuffy old Watcher when he doesn't know what else to do. Thanks for the comment.

lIU
06/13/2006 02:40 pm
A Different Drummer         
Jeez, Giles, you're such a disappointment after such a promising beginning!
He always seems to go downhill, doesn't he? It will get better.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/13/2006 12:51 pm
A Different Drummer         
Good chapter.Poor Spike.I like Dawn's middle name.I always use "Elyse" for her middle name.U
Update soon.
Glad you like it. I'll be updating soon.

SpaceLord
06/13/2006 08:42 am
A Different Drummer         
Yay go Dawn. I like happy nice Dawn/Spike friendship.

And Giles the moron now :)
It'll get better. I promise.

Miss Rose
06/13/2006 06:22 am
A Different Drummer         
I just love the way you always portray Spike. I hope Lydia and Giles get in contact with each other soon. Loved Dawn's flashback. Great chapter.
Thanks. They all will know what's going on soon.

kim
06/13/2006 04:05 am
A Different Drummer         
Can't tell you how much I love this story! You're building something so well layered.

This info shouldn't be surprising to Buffy about the Council. She's got to have figured out by now that they don't care about what they have to do to maintain their little world. Stop stalling! Time is limited.

Spike's inner rant was really well done.
Why do you think i sent someone else to England? Quentin might be on the lookout for the Slayer, not her sister.

06/13/2006 02:14 am
A Different Drummer         
Oh yeah that was Spike alright, but damn Travers is gonna suffer :P
Oh yeah! :P

09/21/2006 07:22 am
Back To Basics         
that's spike for you...still the same person, soul, torture, notwithstanding... :)
Yep. A champion doesn't change. :)

~*~Tasha~*~
07/22/2006 11:52 pm
Back To Basics         
First I wanted to say thank you for writing me when you didn't see reviews for this story for a long time. You know that I always review your stories, and it made me warm in the heart to get your letter.

Secondly, I am glad that I have several chapters of this one to read in a row. That is the one nice thing about catching up ... you get a lot of good stuff all together. {winks}

Glad to see that Dawnie is coming around. I wonder what Spike meant by his watching comment to Lydia. Look forward to reading all there is up to catch up.
Tasha-
Take all the time you need, I know RL is more important. Yes Dawnie is finally growing up. That's good to see, isn't it?

Verda
07/14/2006 09:12 am
Back To Basics         
Now wants he got in mind? Ya never know with him. Another great chapter.
Don't know...keep reading.

06/22/2006 12:16 pm
Back To Basics         
Go Lydia! Can't believe I had disliked her.
It's always the quiet ones that surprise you.

sirc
06/15/2006 09:32 pm
Back To Basics         
great chapter
:)

Lou
06/08/2006 02:39 pm
Back To Basics         
Yikes - nothing friendly, I hope!
Say it with me, Lou. "Spike loves Buffy." :D He wouldn't do that. And niether would I.

vladt
06/08/2006 02:17 am
Back To Basics         
impatiently waiting to see what spike is going to show him. great update. thanks for the fine read.
Sorry, have to wait just a little longer. Travers will learn just what it means to be human. And, he will learn respect for his elders! That young pup needs to learn a few things he should have learned in kindergarten.

Robyn
06/07/2006 04:11 pm
Back To Basics         
I love Buffy's strength and how determined she is to help Spike. Glad that Lydia is helping Spike, and I am really looking forward to the results of his final comment. Thanks for the update.
Thanks for the comment. Travers may be in for a lesson in humanity...from a quarter he least expects it.

kim
06/07/2006 12:54 pm
Back To Basics         
Oooo, Spike has an idea...can't wait! We all know how fascinated Lydia has always been with Spike, so I imagine whatever he might be thinking is going to replay in her head over and over in the future. I'm just waiting for her to swoon the second he's the slightest bit flirty.

Giles truly is the biggest wanker on the planet.

Good Dawnie. Made the right choice.
If his plan works, Spike might just have to give Lydia a big kiss! Worthy of a swoon, right?

Miss Rose
06/07/2006 02:05 am
Back To Basics         
I enjoyed reading Spike's thoughts throughout the chapter. I'm so glad Lydia showed up before Spike cracked. I can't wait to find out what Spike is up to... i'm really hoping Travers feels some payback. Wonderful chapter!
Keep reading. I think it'll be worth the wait.

06/07/2006 12:41 am
Back To Basics         
excellent chappie Can we kill Travers yet *Wulfe Whines*
Wanna help? :)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
06/06/2006 10:52 pm
Back To Basics         
Good chapters.Sorry I haven't reviewed in awhile.I was worried something bad might happened after the last chapter I read,and bad things start happening to characters,it starts to freak me out.But now it's going back towards happy,so I'm back.I'm glad Lydia's helping,but I hope Spike doesn't do anything stupid.
Update soon.
Sorry if I scared you. You will find that my stories, while roller coaster rides, tend to end nicely. Keep reading! :)

09/21/2006 07:17 am
Heart And Soul         
oh my heart breaks for him, poor thing...again i say...travers needs to die...buffy needs to get her hands on him and make him pay for what he's doing to poor spike...
*Nodding slowly* I agree.

Verda
07/14/2006 08:56 am
Heart And Soul         
Maybe now Giles will get his head out his ass and find Spike and now that Buffy's mind, is finally working again, they can get their crap together. Still riding that idiot Giles, stupid Buffy train. *sorry* Excellent read.
No offense taken. Thanks for reading.

06/22/2006 12:08 pm
Heart And Soul         
Buffy is his soul, it's so sweet. i've always felt that she was too
What can I say? I'm a romantic fool.

sirc
06/15/2006 09:25 pm
Heart And Soul         
great chapter
:)

Lou
06/08/2006 02:37 pm
Heart And Soul         
The poor guy needs some hope before he gives up on everything!!
Hope is on its way!

vladt
06/03/2006 08:34 am
Heart And Soul         
buffy, again, has to straighten out giles. very good read. very dark ending. thanks for the fine read.
You're welcome

06/03/2006 12:25 am
Heart And Soul         
Damn Spike just rip out his throat
Spike has to take time to know that there's nothing wrong with being who he is. As David Banner might say, "Mr. Mcgee, don't make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry." :)

pretty_in_fangs
06/02/2006 02:32 pm
Heart And Soul         
I'm so glad to see Buffy allowing her intuition to guide her to the truth and then using reason to guide Giles. Well done. (:
I'm glad you're enjoying it. Buffy needs her wits with her if she's gonna find Spike.

Robyn
06/02/2006 03:44 am
Heart And Soul         
I love how Buffy figured out the truth and that she knew that Spike would never hurt her. I really like that it was Buffy and Panya who figured out what Spike had done, but that Giles couldn’t quite grasp the truth. I really hope that something good happens for Spike soon, and with the same token something really bad for Quentin. Thanks for the update.
*Speaking in Spike's slow drawl* Soon luv, soon.

06/02/2006 03:31 am
Heart And Soul         
Yeah Buffy (and I love the word Spike has chosen for her.....it fits perfectly either way!) and Panya. Giles is a Special Ed kid isn't he? Put him on the short bus.

Quentin needs a sound thrashing (more actually but he claims to be human so we'll settle for a thrashing and perhaps loss of all power).

Excellent!!

Kathleen
Keep reading. Spike and I are still plotting his revenge... :)

Miss Rose
06/02/2006 02:17 am
Heart And Soul         
I loved the moment when everything became clear to Buffy. I'm so glad she was able to think clearly enough to realize Spike saved her life. I really liked the Panya/Buffy interaction, i'm really gonna miss him when the story shifts to England. I feel so bad for Spike, I hope help comes soon. Fantastic chapter!
Don't worry Rose, Mouse isn't going to be gone for good.

SpaceLord
06/02/2006 02:16 am
Heart And Soul         
Well now Buffy will be mad as well....this is not looking good for Travers I must say, although with her pussy rule about killing humans I'm sure he's not the least bit threatened by her.
She has that rule, but the "Big Bad" mighn't be so charitable.

09/21/2006 07:09 am
Exception To The Rule         
wow...he's so brave...*shakes head in amazement*...and he still manages to scare old travers...great chapter :)
Spike. The one unchangable thing in the universe.

Verda
07/14/2006 08:44 am
Exception To The Rule         
Thank goodness that Lydia is keeping track of what's going on with Spike, he's going to need all the help that he can get. Didn't Spike say that the drugs kept him calm, now he's afraid of them? Weird. Another great chapter.
Not of the drugs, but of what might be happening to him when he's unaware.

06/22/2006 11:55 am
Exception To The Rule         
Let's kill Travers! Please!
:)

sirc
06/15/2006 09:19 pm
Exception To The Rule         
great chapter
:)

05/30/2006 10:00 pm
Exception To The Rule         
even chained and drugged, he still scares travers. wonderful ending. loved the chapter, thanks for the read.
Well...if the demon visage is jumpin' because he's a little wigged, why not use it to get a little info?

05/30/2006 02:03 am
Exception To The Rule         
Yeah clear headed brave Spike. Love to have Travers pee his pants for a change. Yeah Lydia too. Great update, can't wait for more and to find have Buffy set Giles straight.

Kathleen
There will be a confrontation. Spike *is* plotting his escape. And his revenge...well the Spike-shaped muse of mine is whispering something rather...creative:) Will have to see.

Lou
05/29/2006 12:49 pm
Exception To The Rule         
Travers!!!! Ugh - vile man.
Worse than the "evil,souless thing" wouldn't you say?

~*~Tasha~*~
05/29/2006 08:52 am
Exception To The Rule         
Another fine update. I look forward to seeing every chapter. {Grins}
Thanks. I look forward to your reviews. :-)

Robyn
05/29/2006 05:26 am
Exception To The Rule         
I am so glad that Lydia has fully decided which side she is on and has decided to do what she can to help Spike. I love that Spike is bringing back his big bad persona and what he said to Travers. Thanks for the update. :)
"Big Bad" has always been a protector, even of himself, so to speak.

Miss Rose
05/29/2006 04:25 am
Exception To The Rule         
Go Lydia! I was hoping she would play a part in Spike's escape from the Council. I just hope it doesn't backfire on her. I'm so proud of the way Spike is handling himself with Quentin. Loved his closing line. Great chapter! :)
She will play a Big role in his escape. How much more do you think Spike can take before "Big Bad" starts to fade and maybe even crack...?I'm just sayin' something's got to give.

kim
05/29/2006 04:15 am
Exception To The Rule         
Lydia's becoming quite impressive here. I figured she would stay an ally once she decided to try to protect Spike.

As always, the Watchers are going to underestimate Spike. I wouldn't mind if he bit Travers, except that the guilt would hit him later and make the soul hurt more.

Are we back to Buffy's POV, and Giles and Mouse in the next chapter?
You figured right. Checking in with Buffy next chapter.

05/29/2006 02:22 am
Exception To The Rule         
*snorts* oh yeah the big Bad is back :P
He's fun to see, isn't he?:P

09/21/2006 07:04 am
Nearsighted         
i wanna stand up and cheer for him, although it's so awful...buffy needs to get better so she can go after him...
And, he deserves it. Go on and cheer...I'll help...ready? "Go Spike!" :D

Verda
07/14/2006 08:23 am
Nearsighted         
How could Giles think that Spike could do anything to hurt Buffy? The doctor said it was a heart attack not an animal attack. Don't no that Buffy's really any better than Travers, at least him wants something, she did it because she could. Like I said, not loving Buffy at the moment, but I love this story.
He's falling back on what he knows, is all.

06/22/2006 11:21 am
Nearsighted         
Awww poor Spike. I hope he'll be ok soon. Giles is impossible you know. What will it take for him to trust Spike?
Old dogs take longer to learn new tricks. Giles is an example of this.

sirc
06/15/2006 09:11 pm
Nearsighted         
great chapter
:)

vladt
05/27/2006 12:47 am
Nearsighted         
very goood read, thanks. you have giles portrayed perfectly. a complete ass. he was infected by the council and was only moderately less a pain than travers. both knew what was "right for everone."
If I weren't true to the characters, even the parts I don't like, no one would read my fic.

pramen
05/26/2006 11:33 pm
Nearsighted         
ohh, I hope Spikes suffering will end soon. Love the update though, usually I only read fics that are completed but I can't keep from reading your story. Thanks for sharing it!
The tables will be turning soon enough. I'm so glad you found this one engrossing enough to break your "completed" rule! I hope I can keep you interested.

05/26/2006 05:52 pm
Nearsighted         
Poor, poor Spike (and naughty reactionary Giles!). Wonderful update. Now we just need the "good guys" to get their wits about them and mount a needed rescue. May I just say that I can't wait for the downfall of the Council!!!??? (One GOOD thing Caleb did on the show IMHO).

Kathleen
You know Giles, when Buffy's in danger he falls back on what he knows. Vampires= bad, even if there is an exception to the rule. There will be an implosion at the Council, don't worry.

Robyn
05/26/2006 08:13 am
Nearsighted         
Giles really doesn't understand Spike at all, I hope Buffy will remember enough to clear Spike's name. I really loved Spike's response to Quentin and I am really looking forward to any kind of justice served against him. Thanks for the update. :)
Nope Giles never did understand, especially when Buffy's been hurt.

SpaceLord
05/26/2006 07:07 am
Nearsighted         
Ohh this should be interesting....now Spike needs to break free and kill QT.....yes he needs to die right now.
Enough tension for ya? Soon...

Miss Rose
05/26/2006 06:13 am
Nearsighted         
It's a shame Buffy's memory is so fuzzy. I hope the fog in her brain lefts soon. When she does get her memories back should be interesting to see if Giles current opinion changes towards Spike again. It's good to know Travers hasn't broken Spike's spirit. Great chapter!
It will clear up soon, don't worry. The opinion of Spike is being colored by what the "Other" vamp did to Buffy. Remember, "Oh it wasn't me. I wasn't in control." Spike is the better man, and Giles will find that out soon.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/26/2006 02:06 am
Nearsighted         
Oooo ... excellent ending to this chapter. First off ... Stupid Giles. After all that Spike went through when he through Buffy was dead, why the heck would he think that Spike would do this to Buffy? {growls at Giles} There is still so much of the old reservations in him that need to be pounded out.

Poor Buffy and Spike. I hope they find their way back to each other before it is to9o late.
Angel did more than just screw up Buffy. I had to get Buffy to Jolly old somehow didn't I?

05/26/2006 12:08 am
Nearsighted         
I love Spike's final line. Of course the chappie title fits perfect as well
I loved it too. Thanks for the comment.

kim
05/25/2006 10:53 pm
Nearsighted         
I want to kick Giles - two stepd forward, three steps back...wanker....

Poor Buffy's going to be worried out of her mind...

What's Travers' questions? Been wondering that.
Baby steps here. As for the questions- what do you think he would ask?

09/21/2006 07:00 am
A Chance of Reign         
oh spike...he's so brave, in spite of everything....travers needs to die slowly....
Soon, love...don't worry :)

Verda
07/14/2006 08:09 am
A Chance of Reign         
Great tune, 867-5309, a phone number no one from my generation will ever forget, I like it. All those years of living and torture have paid off, giving him a way to survive. Love this story.
And the iinsistence that the writers used Sid Vicious as a model for "Spike?" Total B.S. Billy Idol, anyone? :P

06/22/2006 11:14 am
A Chance of Reign         
what does Spike know?
I'll never tell. Okay...I will-but later.

Robyn
05/21/2006 09:07 am
A Chance of Reign         
I loved the last line and him thanking his mother for the piano lessons. Thank you for the update.
A guy has to love his mum. And, we know Spike does.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/21/2006 08:03 am
A Chance of Reign         
Ooooo ... I love that last line ... "If I scare you then I know I can win" That was great! Excellent chapter.
Yep, I thought that was good too. :-)

vladt
05/21/2006 05:25 am
A Chance of Reign         
wonderful setup. love spike's smile. anticipating pain and suffering for quentin. please. thanks for the fantastic read.
Hurtin's coming. But who will be doing the hurtin and to whom?

Miss Rose
05/21/2006 04:08 am
A Chance of Reign         
Despite the grim circumstances Spike is in, this chapter leaves me feeling hopeful. Thank goodness Anne made her son take piano lessons they sure are coming in handy now. It might be wishful thinking on my part but i'm really hoping the character death you're referring to in your warnings is Quentin's. Wonderful chapter.
Could be. Read on, Rose! Hope is a good thing to have, especially for our hero.

05/21/2006 02:49 am
A Chance of Reign         
Smart Spike, so often forgotten! His plans didn't work because of impulseness and impatience not lack of brains!

You have another winner of a story here.

Kathleen
He's Waaaay smarter than the *other* vamp! I'm with you on that. Thanks!

05/20/2006 11:39 pm
A Chance of Reign         
Ohhhhhh Quentin screwed up. Spike is past wanting to die and now has a clear focus :P
Yep he sure did!

SpaceLord
05/20/2006 11:13 pm
A Chance of Reign         
I wanna see a kill the Travers....that would be fun....maybe kill all the watchers too....a good old fashion purge.....yes God does not like it when puny humans try and play God....very bad.

:)
Spike might be up for a "spot of violence"

Lou
05/20/2006 11:09 pm
A Chance of Reign         
So pleased Spike is getting it together!!
me too!

09/21/2006 06:56 am
Xenophobia         
okay, the guy at the hospital's lying...part of a council cover up...right? or maybe he just knows they checked vitals and found nothing...hmmm....poor poor spike...they need to get him out of there...
Nope...no cover up. What would a doctor think when confronted by a "dead body" that is Spike?

Verda
07/14/2006 07:55 am
Xenophobia         
Finally! That crap that Angel said about not being able to do CPR, they breath so that they can talk, which means air in the lungs, air in air out. She owes him big time, when they catch up with him. Just not feelin' the Buffy love right now, of course he'd give himself up for her. Excellent chapter.
I always thought it was crap too. I thought it was just me.

06/22/2006 11:08 am
Xenophobia         
i repeat, cruel death for Travers.
:)

sirc
05/19/2006 07:20 pm
Xenophobia         
great chapter
thank you.

Pramen
05/18/2006 09:13 pm
Xenophobia         
Ohh poor Spike! Update soon please!
Sure! :-)

05/18/2006 08:15 pm
Xenophobia         
Oooo they must have taken Spike there and, naturally, he was pronounced dead (easier to get him out of the country that way the wankers).

Excellent upadate....SAVE Spike (yeah, I know then there'd be no story). Um....kill Travers??? Yeah that'd work.

Kathleen
Shame on you with thos Evil thoughts! LOL *Spike-like smirk* wait for it,luv.

Lou
05/18/2006 10:18 am
Xenophobia         
Very dramatic - I look forward to more.
More coming.

vladt
05/18/2006 07:06 am
Xenophobia         
very good read. thanks
You're very welcome.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/18/2006 05:10 am
Xenophobia         
So that is how they are going ot try to brush off Spike ... that he died. Hmmmmmm ... poor Buffy. I wonder what Quentin meant by why did you do it ... in reference to Buffy? I look forward to more. Another fine chapter you have here, FMS.
Thanks! Just what Did he mean? Don't know. Well, okay I do, but I'm not tellin'! :-)

Miss Rose
05/18/2006 04:56 am
Xenophobia         
Great flashback, Spike was so heroic. Nice touch that Spike performed CPR on Buffy, I love how you blew Angel's lame opinion that vampires can't perform CPR out of the water. I'm so worried that Travers is gonna try to convince the heavily drugged Spike that Buffy didn't survive the lion attack or even worse that he killed her. I'll be eagerly awaiting the next update. Great chapter!
I think Travers is more perturbed that the "Slayer of Slayers" actually Saved one. That's gonna be hard to reconcile with his worldview, don't you think?

Robyn
05/18/2006 04:30 am
Xenophobia         
Glad that Giles found Buffy and I can understand his confusion with the information he’s been given. Buffy going into cardiac arrest was a surprise. I really enjoyed the update, thanks.
Hit someone hard enough, and at the right moment. their heart will stop. Thanks for reviewing.

kim
05/18/2006 03:51 am
Xenophobia         
*whimper* You are evil...another cliffie without all the answers.

I knew they'd be pumping in enough drugs to take Spike as Travers new 'pet'...no surprise there...and they'd want him to go down quick for an easy capture.

Love that you had him doing CPR...good thing he's paid attention to stuff like that! And the young man was already 'dead', LOL. Poor confused doctors. Why would they have seen him, though, when he was picked up right away by the Council guys? They know a vampire won't die from those injuries.
Buffy so owes him now.

Good convo with Aunt Darlene...she's a smart one...and Dawn's starting to listen. Time, and someone she can talk to, heals all wounds, eh?

Now, for mounting that rescue mission!
Yes, Buffy does owe him...Big! Once Buffy got into the plane to go to hospital, the drugs may have caught up with Spike. Do you Really think he wouldn't at least get on the plane with her?

09/21/2006 06:51 am
Innocence Lost         
oh no...poor spike...and i hope buffy's gonna be okay...what is travers gonna do to him?
Don't know...But, it can't be good.

Verda
07/14/2006 07:29 am
Innocence Lost         
When you kill Travers, let Giles do it, so he can give him just what he deserves, exactly how he deserves it. Don't feel bad for
Buffy, only that it will hurt Spike. Great angst-filled chapter.
You're not supposed to feel sorry for Buffy. Thanks for reading.

06/22/2006 11:02 am
Innocence Lost         
DO me a favour, when you kill Travers, make it painful!
Okay :)

vladt
05/18/2006 06:45 am
Innocence Lost         
excellent read. can't wait to see how you resolve this. travers painful demise would not be upsetting. thanks for the great read.
That might be fun. Thanks for the idea...lol.

sirc
05/17/2006 08:22 pm
Innocence Lost         
great chapter
thanks again

Robyn
05/16/2006 12:57 pm
Innocence Lost         
No, no, no Spike can’t be in the hands of Travers he’s already gone through so much and now to he’s in the hands of power-hungry evilness in human form. Buffy in hospital, Spike’s capture relatively easy, what? Did they use her life as a bargaining chip? Please update soon, this chapter was so tense and then to end with that cliffhanger was pure evilness, genius, but still evilness. You’ve got us all chopping at the bit wondering what’s going to happen next. Thanks for the update.
Why do you think it was so easy? Of Course it was Buffy!

Lou
05/16/2006 10:34 am
Innocence Lost         
OH NO!! This is going to be bad, isn't it?
Could be...don't really know.

Miss Rose
05/16/2006 04:47 am
Innocence Lost         
OH NO!!!! Poor Spike! Poor Buffy! This new development is positively heartbreaking. You have me really hating Quentin Travers and the Watcher's Council with vengeance right now. Looks like Spike's suffering is really gonna kick into high gear now. *bites nails* I can't wait to find out what happens next. Great chapter!
Yep, especially with the half-truths and downright lies Travers likesto tell.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/16/2006 04:45 am
Innocence Lost         
{growls at Travers and really wants to kill him} Poor Spike. I hate Travers so much. I always have. That man is more evil that many of the demons Buffy kills for the Council.

I hope that Giles and Buffy can get Spike out of there. There is no telling what Travers will do to him. He should be taken care of and protected for all that he's done to make atonement. He shouldn't have to bear the brunt of whatever Travers wants to do to him.

I hope that Buffy is all right. Maybe Lydia can help them all in some way, if she isn't already dead.

Yeah, I know ... long review, but I'm really scared right now from the story and moved with your words.
Buffy may be the reason Spike is Travers's "guest." Do you really think that Spike would be were he is otherwise?

kim
05/16/2006 03:45 am
Innocence Lost         
Ohgodohgodohgodohgod.......Evil!!

Please tell me they've got the wrong guy...He and Buffy haven't had the chance to talk, yet!

Not Travers...nooooooo....Spike....

How can they possibly get him out of a Council cell? It's probably deep under the building...
Let's think...just How and Why do you think Travers was able to get his grubby mits on Spike? We know he's a "fist'n' fangs" type of guy. So...how? Could it be for a lady?

05/16/2006 01:12 am
Innocence Lost         
NOOOoooooooooo! The slimy Travers has our Spike! Update soon, mustn't leave this cliffy too long. At least Giles and Lydia are being decent.

Kathleen
It won't be too long, I promise.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
05/16/2006 12:53 am
Innocence Lost         
Good chapter.I hope Buffy isn't dead.Update soon.
I was deliberately vauge...I know it's evil, but just *why * does Travers have Spike?

09/21/2006 06:48 am
Cradle of Civilization         
oh no! why didn't she reassure him, tell him they were okay, before he could take off like that? now he's in danger...oh no...
Buffy can be a bit slow...sorry, but it's true.

Verda
07/14/2006 06:40 am
Cradle of Civilization         
What the hell's wrong with her? all she had to do was open her mouth. Could smack her myself. Hate it when I get so emotionally involved with a story. Another great chapter.
Do teenagers ever make sense?

06/22/2006 10:54 am
Cradle of Civilization         
i've a lot to catch up on! I hatetravers and feeling a little sorry for Dawn.
Yeah, crushes can be hard. Spike knows that too well.

sirc
05/17/2006 08:15 pm
Cradle of Civilization         
great chapter
thanks

pretty_in_fangs
05/15/2006 06:17 am
Cradle of Civilization         
Uh oh. What will Giles and Mouse do when they get back?
read on and find out.

Robyn
05/14/2006 09:59 am
Cradle of Civilization         
I enjoyed the memory of Dawn and Spike and you showing some of the reason she is being such a pain, of course she is a teenager and it doesn't take much. :P Poor Spike I feel so bad for him and now more badness with the man at the end. Thanks for the update.
When It rains it pours. Everyone has to learn that just because a love changes, that doesn't mean it stops being love. This is Dawn's journey as well as Buffy and Spike's.

Lou
05/14/2006 02:18 am
Cradle of Civilization         
Yikes - mega-ghastly Dawn!
First crushes can be brutal. Look at how Buffy turned out! LOL

05/13/2006 09:15 pm
Cradle of Civilization         
Gaaaah....I despise Quentin Travers, always have, but never as much as this story! Run Spike Run.

Excellent update. Poor elephants and in an area they SHOULD be safe too....so terrible that it isn't just fiction either.

Kathleen
I know- it's a sad thing. In terms of the story though, it needed to be done. Buffy's gone after Spike, do you think the rest of the animals will be as fair-minded as Spike is, should they happen upon the Slayer?

DeanSamWinchesterfan
05/13/2006 03:40 pm
Cradle of Civilization         
Good chapter.Poor Spike.Update soon.
working on the next chapter now!

pramen
05/13/2006 11:29 am
Cradle of Civilization         
Great chapter!
Thanks!

Miss Rose
05/13/2006 06:52 am
Cradle of Civilization         
I liked Dawn's flashback. Even though she's being a major brat, I can understand where she's coming from. I'm glad Panya and Giles slipped away to get supplies, maybe they can help thwart camouflage guy's evil plans. Great chapter!
You know somthing Rose? I think you're right. ;-)

Tamara
05/13/2006 06:37 am
Cradle of Civilization         
I'm thinking that guy is from the council or the Initative. Either one of them would want Spike and neither one is good news.
Your thinking would be on the money.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/13/2006 06:17 am
Cradle of Civilization         
Crap!!! She didn't realize who Mouse was, and now they are targets for the Council. Crap Crap Crap!!! more soon please.
I'm with you on that. I'll see your "Oh crap!" and raise you an "Oh, &%@$!!!"

kim
05/13/2006 03:22 am
Cradle of Civilization         
Buffy, how hard is it to say it was the elephants? Ugh....is there a brain in there?

And dude with the night-vision goggles - go away! Well, if he's a mere human, then he won't be able to keep up with them.

And damnit! Lydia's telegram was spotted. Blast...

You captured the teen angst well...still such a little girl.
Elephants or humans, considering Spike is having a hard time with the idea of hurting a *Bat*, do you think it would help him to know that? And there could be more than one nasty guy waiting out there in the dark...HMMM.

09/21/2006 06:42 am
Blueshift         
oh i hope dawn wises up the moment she sees him, if not before...poor spike, how very sad this all is for him...
Changing is painful. But, he knew that going in. And still, he did it. What is the meaning of a champion, again? :)

Verda
07/14/2006 06:15 am
Blueshift         
This is wonderful, absolutely incredible and thankfully a chapter that can breath easier with. Yes, maybe now Dawn will start to see things a little clearer. Thanks for this great chapter.
Sometimes you need a beather. :)

sirc
05/07/2006 09:29 am
Blueshift         
great chapter
thanks.

Robyn
05/07/2006 08:17 am
Blueshift         
Starting with the end, I love the outside perspective of Aunt Darlene about Spike and the very important lesson she is trying to teach Dawn. I loved hearing Willow's thoughts on what she had done and how it didn’t help her with her pain, and her realization that she was no better then Spike, the individual she had considered completely evil. I felt so bad for Spike and his nightmares of Buffy’s death by Warren. And I love the help that Lydia is trying to give those in Africa. Thanks for another great update.
It's always easier to see what's really going on if you're not mixed up in the emotions of the moment. Thanks for reading.

vladt
05/07/2006 03:29 am
Blueshift         
very good read. crammed alot in to this update. dawn's aunt sounding like joyce; red actual seeing how far she has to go; buffy being blond; and lydia being very brave. thanks for the fine read.
Well they all have to grow and change. And she is Joyce's sister. Why wouldn't they sound alike?

~*~Tasha~*~
05/07/2006 02:31 am
Blueshift         
Go Aunt Darlene ... set that brat of a Key sister straight. I hated how Dawn turned on Spike. Yes, she heard what Xander told her, but she never tried to take what Buffy said and let it go. Dawn, of all people, should have known that Xander would turn things any way he wanted it to make Spike look the worst.

Another excellent chapter. You are bringing all things together in a unique plot that I am enjoying reading.
I think part of Dawn's extreme reaction had to do with a tiny *crush* she had on Spike. "Love makes you do the wacky," doesn't it?

Lou
05/07/2006 01:52 am
Blueshift         
Please put Dawn out of her misery. It'd be a mercy!
I agree, she's stupid. But to do something that drastic? Surely you jest.

arba
05/07/2006 01:46 am
Blueshift         
There is a typo on the summary. It's canon, not cannon. They have a completely different meaning.
Fixed now...thanks.

05/07/2006 12:55 am
Blueshift         
Yes Dawn listen to auntie!

Am I sensing an alliance with the Initiative clowns? Yeah to Lydia for the heads up BTW.

Wondering about those dreams of Spike's....Warren????

Great job as always.

Kathleen
Maybe she will. Nope there is no alliance. But it doesn't look good for Spike unless Giles gets that wire in time. *Crossong fingers* Here's hoping! Spike went to a demon, you think maybe said deamon let him see things he knew would be painful for Spike?

Miss Rose
05/07/2006 12:29 am
Blueshift         
Good for Lydia! I like the way you're portraying her. The scene when those beetles crawled into Spike's nose and ears was so creepy, no wonder Spike is having nightmares about it. I couldn't agree more with Willow's assessment about her actions, especially her coming to the conclusion that Spike is a better person than her. Aunt Darlene seems like a nice lady, I hope Dawn listens to her. Wonderful chapter!
I knew what they were supposed to be, the beetles, when I first saw the ep. I knew what they ate and what Spike was, and I thought,"That's gotta hurt." It's about time Willow faced up to what she did. Don't you think?

05/07/2006 12:24 am
Blueshift         
Dawnie issues r being addressed i see. i think i like Buffy's aunt
Yep. I like Darlene too.

kim
05/07/2006 12:20 am
Blueshift         
Growing up is painful - you made wonderful, accurate illustrations of exactly that, here. A turning point for so many.

And adding that conversation with Aunt Darlene is genius. You keep managing to bring up little throwaway tidbits from the series, like a name, and making them relevant...enriching the 'verse.

It's still weird to me that Xander's dead, just because people rarely take that choice to have Willow go that way. I think it was a good call, though. It adds even more impact on Willow's recovery, taking away the crutch he'd been for her...and removes the obstacle he often represents.

And Buffy thinking poachers wouldn't be on a nature preserve....LOL....try reading National Geographic once in a while, kiddo. How did she blind herself so badly to common human scumbags? Sure, every soul has the potential to make good choices, but there's still free will - it is a bitch. ;)
As much as I like Willow, her behavior creeped me out and I thought I should deal with it. Why mention an Aunt if you're never going to use her again?

DeanSamWinchesterfan
05/06/2006 11:57 pm
Blueshift         
Stupid Dawn,acting all bratty.I'm still in shock from Supernatural's season finale. Update soon.
Let's face it. Dawn was a brat.

09/21/2006 06:35 am
Speaking Louder         
oh wow...that was just...just overwhelming...i was sobbing here, love...so incredibly powerful and amazing...but so beautiful...on to more :)
I know...this story does have its moments...

Verda
07/14/2006 05:50 am
Speaking Louder         
Please put a warning up so that we are better prepared for this raw, emotionally draining chapter. Tissues are a necessity. I can barely wrap my head around the emotions that are so fresh on the page. My heart broke as he fell to the ground. Loved the line "she was the Alpha and Omega"...his beginning and end! You ROCK!!!
Thank you! I know how I feel when I write, but I'm never sure if I'm conveying the emotions. I'm so glad it came through.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/07/2006 02:25 am
Speaking Louder         
At least Buffy isn't cruelly dense here. She is innocently dense, not understanding all of what she's seen. I loved how you handled all the emotions of the first meeting again. Very powerfully written. This is in the top of your fics that I like.
I was concerned about that. I didn't want to go too over the top, but I didn't want to gloos over it either. I know Buffy as written on the show was cruel. I hope I wrote a more believable Buffy.

sirc
05/04/2006 05:12 pm
Speaking Louder         
great chapter
Thank you:-)

05/04/2006 01:43 pm
Speaking Louder         
awww so sweet. more please.
More is coming

Lou
05/03/2006 09:21 pm
Speaking Louder         
The reunion was beautifully done. More soon please.
Thank you. More is coming. Keep an eye out for it,please.

pramen
05/03/2006 08:54 pm
Speaking Louder         
I love your story, the reunion between Buffy and Spike was beautiful! Looking forward for more.
More is coming. This is the Spike and Buffy I *Wish* had been on screen. (where's Halfrek when you really need her, huh? LOL)

vladt
05/03/2006 08:33 pm
Speaking Louder         
powerful update. love the tale.
Thank you for the review

Robyn
05/03/2006 11:31 am
Speaking Louder         
Thank you for another great chapter. The emotions were so strong and touching, and I really liked how you did things first from Spike's perspective then did it again from Buffy's.
Thanks. Sometimes the double perspective is hard to pull off. I'm glad you think I did it well.

SpaceLord
05/03/2006 09:31 am
Speaking Louder         
Buffy and the obvious are not mixy :)
And, I quote Spike: "To coin a popular Sunnydale phrase, 'DUH!'"

pretty_in_fangs
05/03/2006 05:56 am
Speaking Louder         
I just sat down and read everything thus far. Wonderful story, filled with such honest emotion. It's beautiful, and I'll be watching for more.
Thank you for giving this a read. I'll try to keep you interested and coming back for more.

05/03/2006 03:51 am
Speaking Louder         
WOW what an emotionally powerful chapter. Beautifully written heart wrenching scene you have here. The Council, of course, must be destroyed as it currently is or the words Giles has spoken of endless pursuit willl be prophecy.

Wonderful!

Kathleen
Things will change but something drastic will have to happen first. Please keep reading.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
05/03/2006 03:37 am
Speaking Louder         
Good chapter.Hopefully Buffy won't freak out.Update soon.
I think she is floating on a river in Egypt about now.

05/03/2006 03:34 am
Speaking Louder         
This was such a beautiful chapter, and such a cliffhanger, too. Evil! I really like this story and the way you've written Spike, Buffy, and Giles. Very realistic and true to their characters. I hope you update soon - I can't wait to see what happens next!
I think cannon was messed up. The one person who should have reacted differently to the soul was "Giles." And yet, there was nothing. GRR ARGH. This is my attemp at "Fixing" things

Miss Rose
05/03/2006 03:09 am
Speaking Louder         
You did an amazing job with Spike and Buffy's reunion. This update really left me all teary eyed. Excellent chapter as always! :)
Thanks! I'm worn out too. Give me a few days and I'll be ready to continue the tale.

05/03/2006 02:50 am
Speaking Louder         
oh yeah, so loving this
I'm so glad! :-p

kim
05/03/2006 02:48 am
Speaking Louder         
Wow...you continue to put out these powerful chapters...just gorgeous in the emotions and images shown.

And I'm so glad Giles is ready to protect Spike from even Buffy. That's fantastic. He's going to have to lead her by the hand until she assimilates the new setting. So slow...

And Panya...ahead of his years, for sure...a truly good kid.
Thanks Kim, I try. Buffy was always a little dense, but I wanted more emotion than there was in "Beneath You." I think that I succeeded.

09/21/2006 06:29 am
Why, Oh You         
oh that was heartbreaking....made me furious with buffy in that flashback scene...how could she be so cruel to him? but then..not so much with the surprise...*sigh*....poor spike...this story is so unbelievably intense...on to more :)
Buffy really hasn't been sympathetic, IMHO, since Angel left. It's gonna take time, but she *will* be human again. :)

Verda
07/14/2006 05:17 am
Why, Oh You         
You're killing me here. The exchange between Panya and Spike in this chapter is remarkable. The young man cares so much for his new friend and is so supportive of him, it's a sight for all to see. Now for Buffy. Great chapter.
There's nothing like the faith of a child. Angel knows that very well.

~*~Tasha~*~
05/07/2006 02:21 am
Why, Oh You         
Excellent chapter update! I'm so glad that I have 2 more to read. {grins} I LOVE this story FMS. I really do.
Oh good, you're back! I was starting to think I scared you off. I'm glad you enjoy the story.

sirc
05/01/2006 10:54 am
Why, Oh You         
great chapter
Thanks so much!

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/29/2006 02:58 pm
Why, Oh You         
Good chapter.Hopefully,Spike won't freak out when he sees Buffy.Update soon.
Thanks. Of course he's gonna freak out a little. The question is what will Buffy do about it?

akarinacj
04/29/2006 11:28 am
Why, Oh You         
I want to cry. It´s not fair. How can you finish your chapter there?!!!! Please update soon!!!!!
Next Chapter will be more to your liking. Most of it, anyway. Thanks for reading.

04/29/2006 01:24 am
Why, Oh You         
I really like Panya all all the support and care he gives Spike. And I am so glad that Buffy finally got there, and that she realized how cruel she was towards Spike. Thanks for the great update.
Thanks for reading.

Dar
04/29/2006 12:48 am
Why, Oh You         
What a beautifully written chapter, Kudos
Thank you for the compliment.

Miss Rose
04/29/2006 12:28 am
Why, Oh You         
Great interaction between Spike and Panya, I love the friendship their developing. Powerful flashback... very interesting glimpse into Buffy's head, i'm glad she's showing remorse for her actions though. Wonderful chapter... loved the ending!
Thanks Rose. I know it's lame but, what else can I say? :-)

04/29/2006 12:00 am
Why, Oh You         
oh common you can't end it like that! they just met. update soon please.Gr8 chappie.
Oh, yes I can. LOL Keep reading, okay? ;-)

kim
04/28/2006 11:40 pm
Why, Oh You         
Squee!

Gah...why'd you have stop there? *pouts* Yeah, it's a good place literature-wise...that coat must be dragging on the floor, dwarfing her, as it was a looser cut on Spike.

And they've been followed! Oh, no! And Quentin got info he liked....eeeep!!

Love the exchange between Spike and Panya. Children can be very easy to talk to...
Gotta give you a reason to keep reading, don't I? Children, and strangers are very non-judgemental. Makes it easier to talk and let out feelings you may not know you have.

04/28/2006 11:17 pm
Why, Oh You         
Oh yes, Wulfie much in love with this fic :P
Feeling's mutual, Wulfie. I love your reviews!

vladt
04/28/2006 11:14 pm
Why, Oh You         
very good update, enjoying the tale. thanks for the read
Thank you.

09/20/2006 07:20 pm
Tightrope         
oh no....poor spike....poor lydia, too, actually...this is so very beautifully written...an excellent job, pet...
Thank you again!

Verda
07/14/2006 04:05 am
Tightrope         
Another gut wrenching chapter. This amazing relationship between Giles and Spike is incredible. Damn! Travers, of course he's found out. Come on the Buffy, get there soon. Great chapter.
She'll be there soon.

akarinacj
04/26/2006 08:56 am
Tightrope         
Ahhh.Please update soon!!!! Send Buffy to Africa as soon as possible. I want to see them together. Se how they both react when the see eachother. Great story.
Will do! Thanks for reading.

04/25/2006 01:01 pm
Tightrope         
Kill Tavers! and um poor Willow she seems to be going through something similar to what spike is too. maybe they'll become friends.
Maybe they will. Killing Travers? HMM...I'll think about it.

sirc
04/25/2006 12:24 pm
Tightrope         
great chapter
Thanks again.

ariadne
04/25/2006 04:27 am
Tightrope         
just read this through. great story. lovin it!
Thanks for reading.

~*~Tasha~*~
04/25/2006 03:54 am
Tightrope         
Egads ... scary stuff. Quentin always gave me the willies. I'm scared for Lydia, Giles, Buffy and most of all Spike. Quentin will try to hunt Spike down. I hope that Buffy and Giles can save Spike. I can't wait to see what happens with buffy gets to Africa. Excellent update.
I was worried about parts of this chapter. But, it just proves that you can be just as scared without the graphic gore. Thanks for reading, it'll get better. I promise.

Miss Rose
04/25/2006 03:48 am
Tightrope         
I love the relationship Giles is building with Spike. As usual you did an excellent job of capturing Spike's pain. I was pleasantly surprised by Lydia... but then again she always did seem to be somewhat of a Spike fan. Wonderful chapter!
Thanks Rose. I'm always happy to surprise you.

vladt
04/25/2006 02:54 am
Tightrope         
fascinating tale, thanks for the fine read. is giles for real?
HMMM...this is AU remember? Of course he's real.

SpaceLord
04/25/2006 02:14 am
Tightrope         
You need to bring up the time table of the first and blow the council to hell :)

The Lion thing you mentioned as a coment for my view of good and evil works very well.
Not just yet...this is AU after all.

Robyn
04/25/2006 02:09 am
Tightrope         
Thank you for the update. I really like how connected Spike and Giles have become. How willing Giles is to be there for Spike, and how much Spike wants him there. I really like that Giles was able to give to Spike the knowledge that Buffy was alive and would want to know what had happened to him. Buffy and Spike’s reunion is something to be looked forward to. Dealing with Quentin will also be very interesting.
Keep reading, reunion coming soon. A bond forged in war is a very strong one. These two have a common experience and a love for Buffy. It makes sense.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/25/2006 01:16 am
Tightrope         
Good chapter.Poor Spike.I'm glad Giles is helping him instead of trying to kill him.I hate the Watcher's Council.Update soon.
Well, whether he admits it or not, Giles *owes* Spike. Time to pay it forward.

kim
04/25/2006 01:00 am
Tightrope         
Wow, just...wow. You can FEEL Spike's anguish.And how Giles is trying to reconcile all he's witnessing, and help as best he can. "Hauntingly beautiful" - oh, yes.

Lydia, the sacrificial lamb - at least she knows it's for a good cause.

And Panya rocks.
Thanks, it's good to know I can get the emotions across.

04/25/2006 12:55 am
Tightrope         
Oh yes, you are truly bloody evil

I love that in a writer :P
Evil? Little old me? Nah! Well...maybe a little.

09/20/2006 07:11 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
this was again, heart-melting...so very sad for poor spike...you've captured his torment so well...and i'm so glad that buffy is going to be kind to him...and dawn will come around,in time, won't she? *anxious*
Thank you. Of course she will come around...does a young girl ever really forget her first love? :)

Verda
07/14/2006 03:20 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
OMG! that was such an emotionally powerful and raw chapter, it still rips at my heart and sticks in my throat. Yeah, Dawn's still upset, she only heard what happened from Xander and now that he's gone why should she betray the last things he said to her, that would he lied to her just before he died and she can't deal with that now. so excellent of a chapter. Can't wait to keep reading.
It all depends on how you look at things. I hated the "Poor Helpless Buffy" of season six. Spike and Buffy both did dispicable things. I hope you keep reading.

ariadne
04/29/2006 03:08 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
*giggles*
i just love hte pb&j analogy. thats the best. love rupert and i'm glad he has come to some realizations. the counsil is such a bunch of wankers. can't wait to see what happens when buffy gets there.
I liked the analogy too. And the sandwitch. Glad you are enjoying the story.

fallen_angel
04/21/2006 02:49 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
yup Dawn's got issues alright. Can't wait for the big peanutbutter meets jelly scene. thanx 4 the update.
Just a little longer now. Thanks for reading.

sirc
04/21/2006 06:01 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
great chapter
Thanks!

vladt
04/21/2006 02:36 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
very good chapter. really like this side of giles. thanks for the fine rread.
You're welcome.

kim
04/21/2006 01:33 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Everything happening is very appropriate, and a lot of it makes more sense than cannon, for sure.

I'm not surprised Dawn doesn't want to go. She's really angry that Spike left her. The bathroom incident is just an excuse for her, and I'm glad her last quote was the truth behind Dawn's attitude: "He left me. Now I'm leaving him!"

And Buffy so needed to come clean with how she treated Spike. There's a lot of making up to do.
Cannon made no sense at all IMO. There will be making up, but only after some time.

Robyn
04/21/2006 12:44 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
You did so well with this that I could feel Spike's pain. I am so glad that Giles is there with him, and that Buffy did not cave to Dawn's temper tantrum but made arrangements and went to Africa. I am really looking forward to when Buffy and Spike meet again. Thank you for the great update.
You're welcome. My Buffy is a bit more grown up, isn't she?

04/21/2006 12:19 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
LOL, I truly love this chappie :P
Glad you like :-D

04/21/2006 12:12 am
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Just discovered this WIP and am hooked. I am looking forward to more of this. Nice to see Giles sympathetic for a change! I always felt he was out of character on the show when he had almost no interest in how and why Spike went after his soul. The Giles I had seen in the past would have been endlessly fascinated.

I believe the most important caveat to what Spike did in SR was that look on his face, as you point out in the story. He KNEW what he had tried to do was wrong and he STOPPED....yes, she kicked him off (rather like slapping a hysterical person to get their attention)..but he stopped and he felt remorse. The startling thing was what he did NOT do rather than what he did, or tried to do. The chip didn't work on Buffy, he had no soul....he should have just been like any other vampire and continued with no conscious....that was not what happened and that was what was remarkable.

Sorry forbeing long winded. Do carry on with this excellent fic.

Kathleen
Will do! I'm with you on this. A souless vampire feeling GUILT and going out to get his soul to protect the ones he LOVED? Impossible, right?...Right??? Not bloody likely! ;-)

SpaceLord
04/20/2006 11:58 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Don't know bangers and mash either....not english....swedish

I have had peanut butter but I think it just sticks in your mouth and is really annoying :)

Tasha I don't agree with you in that what Buffy did was worse. It was bad and I really did not like Buffy for that and thought she was a really poor hero but in the end a lot has to be put on Spikes feet too cause he let her do it. I do agree that they weren't willing to see anything wrong with the way she treated Spike or the fact that if you have a soul and do wrong it's ok and you can be forgiven but not if you don't have a soul. Now I'm of the opposite side here, I mean if you have a soul you and you know right from wrong then when you do wrong/evil it really is evil but if a soulless creature who is only acting in his nature does that how can it really be evil?
Let me see if I can get my point across clearer. I think you have it SL. Just whant to make sure. IMO what Buffy did is worse, *because * she has a soul and still did questionable, even evil, things to someone she knew had feelings for her. Now, if you, the reader, liken Spike to a lion, that by its nature has to kill in order to live, and does not have a soul as we understand it, if the lion can go against his nature and cease to "follow his blood", why not a Slayer? And, who ia worse, the "souless thing," or the one with the soul who does evil just for power? Let's not kid ourselves, Buffy had all the power and control in the Buffy/Spike dynamic on the show.

~*~Tasha~*~
04/20/2006 11:29 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Loved the analogies. I hope that Dawn gets a kick in the arse and gets out of her mood. I always hated that no one was willing to hear what Buffy did ... or they didnt' want to recognize what Buffy did to Spike as being far worse than what he tried to do to her. What he tried ... she succeeded in doing to him all the time over and over.

Excellent update. I look forward to more.
Thanks tasha. I always thought what Buffy did was much worse than what Spike did. And don't worry, bumm kicking to come, once "Big Bad" brother can get himself together.

Miss Rose
04/20/2006 11:12 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
I really liked Giles in this chapter. I appreciate how much compassion and support he's giving to Spike. It's so great to see Buffy so determined. After Buffy's cookie dough speech on the show, peanut butter and jelly seems like something Buffy would think to herself about her feelings for Spike. Great chapter! :)
I like peanut butter and Jelly. Much better than some stupid cookie dough.

SpaceLord
04/20/2006 10:23 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Don't eat that much peanut butte or jelly so I can't really say I understand how well they go together :)
Sorry..an American thing. Should I have said "Bangers and mash?" Trust me it's quite tasty.

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/20/2006 10:21 pm
Peanut Butter Needs Jelly         
Good chapter.Actually,peanut butter is better without jelly,but whatever.And no I don't expect David to go all fang-y in "Bones".Did you see last night's episode?It was about voodoo,and it was asked what religion David's character was.He said he was Catholic,and I laughed at the irony.I almost got the first season of Angel today at Barnes & Noble,but didn't have enough money.They're holding it for me until Monday.Then I'll have all seven seasons of Buffy and the movie(I haven't watched it yet.),and four seasons of Angel.I'll just need Season 2 then.Update soon.
I like both peanut butter and jelly. But,IMHO they are better tegether, much like our hero and heroine. BTW, be aware that the "Buffy" movie is Nothing like the show. And, I'm glad you're reading my story.

09/20/2006 07:06 pm
Deconstruction         
oh this is heartbreaking...so very sad and sweet...poor spike, he must be so confused...i'm glad giles is being kind to him, after everything that's happened...can't wait to see their reunion :)
I choose to write Giles, and all the characters really, as more introspective than they were on the show. I hope they ring true for you.

Verda
07/14/2006 02:58 am
Deconstruction         
Very happy that Lydia took Giles' threat to heart. Wow! Buffy kept the duster and wears it, at least Giles had some good news. Love this story.
That often happens when you love someone but can't admit it. You tend to keep the stuff they leave behind. :)

fallen_angel
04/16/2006 01:05 pm
Deconstruction         
hope this isn't the last we see of Panya, really like the guy. If Buffy is going to Africa Dawn istoo i mean with Tara, WQillow and Xander gone who'll watch her? oh and how is Anya dealing with Xander's death?
Dawn's not going. She has "issues" to work out for herself, by herself. Dawn does have a father, and an Aunt Darlene. Remember her, from "Pangs?" Dawn may choose to stay with either of them.

sirc
04/16/2006 11:41 am
Deconstruction         
great chapter
Thanks!

04/15/2006 07:26 pm
Deconstruction         
damn I am loving this fic, sorry for not reviwing before :D
That's quite all right. But dont let it appen again!:-D How am I to know people are reading if they don't respond?

~*~Tasha~*~
04/15/2006 07:51 am
Deconstruction         
Awesome update. {claps} More more ... pretty please. {giggles}
More is on its way!

~!
04/15/2006 07:50 am
Deconstruction         
?

Miss Lesley
04/15/2006 01:17 am
Deconstruction         
Hello great story. Very wel written. I am enjoying a dead Xander. Although, I wish he had died before he told Dawn about what happened between Spike and Buffy.

Question what about Dawn? With Tara and xander dead, willow and Giles gone who will watch over her if Buffy were to leave to go to Africa?

Thanks
Dawn does have a father, remember? Last known whereabouts were Spain, I believe. There is no way Dawn is going to Africa!

Robyn
04/15/2006 12:46 am
Deconstruction         
I hope Lydia really took Giles serious, by the sound of her telegram she did. Loved the Willie and Buffy exchange. He wouldn't be him if he wasn't at least a little scummy acting. I can completely understand Buffy's anger at Willow, and I loved her thoughts when she compared Willow's actions and Spike's actions. For all of Spike's love of action and his inpatients, he had a tremendous amount of self-control, particularly when it came to someone he loved. Willow on the other hand is a control freak, with very little self-control. She has often done damage to those she loved, when she was in pain, because of this. Thanks for the great update, I did a little happy dance when I saw it. :D
Aww, you did a happy dance? That's nice that you like this story so much. I always thought that Willow was more dangerous than Spike.

Miss Rose
04/15/2006 12:20 am
Deconstruction         
I like this version of Buffy, I couldn't agree more with her opinions about Spike and Willow's actions. I was pleasantly surprised that Lydia actually kept her mouth shut, but I still don't trust her. I'm so glad Buffy's on her way to Africa, i'm really looking forward to her reunion with Spike. Great chapter!
Maybe she did...maybe she didn't. Read and find out!

SpaceLord
04/15/2006 12:19 am
Deconstruction         
Hmm so what is this all about? I keep forgetting stuff as I read a new chapter. Like what was the prophecy that was to be fullfilled with Spike getting his soul? Damn I probably need to go back and re read the other chapters.....the horror....the horror :)
It shouldn't be too difficult, SpaceLord. It's only one timeline and only five chapters so far. So what's to be confused about? ;-)

DeanSamWinchesterfan
04/14/2006 11:25 pm
Deconstruction         
Good story and chapter.I can see Buffy wanting revenge for Xander's death.Do you watch "How I Met Your Mother" or "Bones"? Update soon.
I just figured this was a better and maybe a truer reaction than they showed in cannon. Willow killed people, no one's going to be even a *little* put out by that? The updates are coming. And, I am soo loyal to the Jossverse alum. "Prof. Fine" has my first loyalty, but I do watch "Bones" from time to time. Is it just me, or do you expect "Booth" to break out in fangs, too? ;-)

jl1980
09/20/2006 04:04 pm
Agrapha         
oh good...giles made it in time....now if only he can win this little showdown...poor spike...
I think he'll live to fight another day...:)

Verda
07/14/2006 02:05 am
Agrapha         
Good ol' Ripper, you can always count on him in a pinch. Very exciting. Excellent chapter.
Gotta love Ripper! :)

sirc
04/08/2006 09:19 pm
Agrapha         
great chapter
Thank you for reading, sirc.

fallen_angel
04/07/2006 08:19 pm
Agrapha         
sanskrit is not my strong suit either, i had to take it school but i think i forgot it the moment i passed. oh i hate Travers, once again love Panya! Glad Lydia was stuck in a stupid lorry. Oh yah, Go Giles!
Glad you liked this chaptper! I thought it was about time Giles got to play the hero.

zanthinegirl
04/07/2006 02:22 pm
Agrapha         
Very interesting! This is *such* a cool story!

I hope we'll get to see more of what happened in your version of "Grave"-- I'm very curious what happened differently in this verse.
*See Above* ;-)

zanthinegirl
04/07/2006 02:21 pm
Agrapha         
Very interesting! This is *such* a cool story!

I hope we'll get to see more of what happened in your version of "Grave"-- I'm very curious what happened differently in this verse.
That's coming in the next chapter. Stay tuned!

04/07/2006 05:19 am
Agrapha         
Thank you for this really great update. I am glad that Giles showed up when he did, and I loved the flashback of how Panya met Spike.
Glad you liked the flasback, more will be coming.

vladt
04/07/2006 04:00 am
Agrapha         
go giles. nice to see rupert didn't trust travers. good read, thanks
Why would he trust the Council. They're all a bunch of paper-pushers.

Miss Rose
04/07/2006 03:25 am
Agrapha         
*does a happy dance* I'm so glad Giles showed up when he did. I liked the flashback between Spike and Panya. The info on the prophecies was really interesting. Great chapter!
Change is a threat to people in power. And, of course Giles figured Quentin would cover all the angles. He's not stupid.

kim
04/07/2006 12:09 am
Agrapha         
Oh, thank goodness, Giles got there in time. Make Lydia go away! And yay, Spike's not afraid of Giles. That will help.

I like Panya. Cool kid.
I wouldn't do that to Spike. He has enough on his mind. Glad you like Panya. I do too.

~*~Tasha~*~
04/06/2006 10:47 pm
Agrapha         
YES! Get her Giles. Don't let her put even a pinky nail on Spike! Excellent update. Look forward to more soon, I hope.
Not so much as a manicured claw! ;-)

Nikkole
04/06/2006 08:17 pm
Agrapha         
Very good chapter! My last review didn't take for some reason, so I will just say, I can't stand Lydia, never could, I hope they leave her for the desert animals! Can't wait for the next update!
Do you think Giles would do that? Oh wait, remember "Ripper?"

SpaceLord
04/06/2006 07:18 pm
Agrapha         
Hmm to be honest from what little we saw of that Chambers chit on the show she would pose no threat what so ever. But looks can be deceiving I guess.
Not the Chalmers woman herself. It's what the Council wants with Spike that's the threat.

rayan
04/06/2006 06:56 pm
Agrapha         
i cant tell you how excited i am right now *grins*....keep it comin!!
Okay...keep reading!

Verda
07/14/2006 12:42 am
Living         
What a perfect metaphor for him! Surprised that the Council would send a female to capture Spike ensouled or not. Great chapter, thanks for the read.
No,no,no... it's not the fact that she's female. It's because she knows what he might do. She wrote her thesis on him, remember?

~*~Tasha~*~
04/05/2006 08:33 am
Living         
Uh oh ... Travers is sending Lydia behind Giles. I hope that Giles finds Spike first and gets him away from the Council's grasp. Spike so doesn't need to be dealing with the Council poking, prodding, imprisoning and torturing him. Excellent update.
I know. Here's hoping Rupes gets ther first. ;-)

zanthinegirl
04/03/2006 06:00 pm
Living         
Very interesting premis! Looking forward to seeing how you develop this one.
Me too! You up for a ride?

Lou
04/03/2006 04:03 pm
Living         
Poor Spike - and good old Giles is doing himself proud with his concern! Great stuff!
I always thought Giles had it in him...Angel just sapped all his empathy. Well not in my 'verse!

fallen_angel
04/03/2006 12:45 pm
Living         
alright and update! spike's thought were touching, i'm glad he didn't go ahead wih it cos spike is no coward. Angel trying to kill himself because of the first showed how weak he was and how weak his faith in his love was but spike is not like that. i really like this Panya. what's the council up to? i mean first they send Giles and then they send someone after him? can'y wait for Giles to meet Spike. What is Sharpei?
Spike is, and *Always will be* the champ. A Sharpei is a breed of dog with very loose skin. Kind of like Clem's. They're so ugly that they're cute, especially as puppies.

04/03/2006 08:10 am
Living         
Thank you for the great update I really enjoyed this chapter, and I am looking forward to the next one. :)
So glad you enjoy the story!

vladt
04/03/2006 06:52 am
Living         
travers is double dealing again. the tale has an interesting start. looking forward to many more updates. thanks for the read.
Of course. Does the Council do anything other than double-deal?

idk5743228
04/03/2006 04:05 am
Living         
Very powerful chapter. I think I actually groaned when I got to the end. I loved the scene at Xander's grave. I look forward to any and all updates
You groaned...is this a good thing? Glad you're enjoying the story.

Miss Rose
04/03/2006 03:33 am
Living         
I'm so glad that Spike's inner strength kicked in before he went through with doing something drastic. It's nice to find out that Buffy is worried about Spike. The Lydia situation definitely can't be of the good. I liked the Weeping Lion description of Spike, it fits him at the moment. Great chapter!
LOL Rose you know Spike's no whimp!

kim
04/03/2006 01:45 am
Living         
Oh, I was so afraid for a while, there.

Lydia on her way...hiss! I hope Giles doesn't trust her a lick. Better yet, that he and Spike can keep out of her reach. At least Giles knows full well not to trust the Council when it comes to Spike.

The boy playing with him, seeing if he knew the language..priceless. Giles would look so out of place there. But, he'll be seeing Spike soon. I hope he can help.
Don't think I would dust Spike, do ya? I wouldn't...but I'm not so sure about others;-)

04/02/2006 10:57 pm
Living         
loving this so much...can't wait to see what happens when giles finds spike....and hope the council dont get them....this story has me hooked already :)
Giles will find him, but someone's looking for them both...what's gonna happen? Stay tuned.

10/31/2006 12:07 pm
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
just started reading, i;m loving it.
Thanks! :) Hopw you enjoy!

Verda
07/14/2006 12:07 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
Excellent job of expressing his thoughts, his poor tortured soul needing relief. Even tough Giles knows what he tried to do to Buffy, I'm sure he'll help him. Buffy dead? why would he think that? Suspenseful story. Great read, thanks.
Spike has always been sensitive to Buffy's feelings. He may have ficated on the pain she felt. After all, in a way, Spike has "died" too. And Buffy was shot at the end of "Seeing Red."

04/02/2006 10:54 pm
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
oh no!! i hope giles gets there to help him before he dusts himself!!! poor spike! you write his reaction to the soul beautifully...very well done update :)
If I did dust him, it Buffy wouldn't have the chance to be nicer to him than she was in cannon. And, thanks for the compliment!

~*~Tasha~*~
03/30/2006 05:04 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
Wow ... amazing chapter. I hope that Giles gets to Spike in time. Awesome work. I like this plot, and I'm really looking forward to seeing more of it.
I get a "Wow,"...wow. And it's only one timeline...think I can handle it? *wink*

Lou
03/28/2006 01:58 pm
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
I'm so pleased Giles is the one to see the good in Spike. More please.
More is on its way:-)

03/28/2006 09:41 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
You do such a great job of getting into Spike's head. I like how Giles touched base with everyone before leaving to Africa, and his distrust for the council is very loud and clear. I am looking forward to this fic. :)
What can I say? I sort of identify with "Spike," so he's easy to write. Touching base is a good thing. It cuts down on the ugly rumors. Stay tuned!

03/28/2006 07:28 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
Lucky for Spike he's only a vampire. Most of what he did, he did to survive. What was Hitler's excuse? His soul didn't seem to suffer at all. More dark story please.
Shows you just how strong our hero really is! And, don't worry, more is on its way soon.

Nikkole
03/28/2006 05:06 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
WOW. That was powerful. You painted the picture in my mind, very good. I can't wait until Giles finds him. I can't wait for more!
Won't have to wait too long. I promise

Miss Rose
03/28/2006 02:21 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
I like the direction you're taking story... I always thought it was such a waste of a good storyline not to explore the fact that Spike sought out his soul. Great glimpses into Giles' and Spike's heads. I'm really looking forward to finding out what happens when Giles gets to Africa. Great chapter!
Thank you Rose. I thought it was a waste too. I read that Mr. Marsters told a convention croud that he wanted "Giles" to be the first to find out about "Spike's" soul. Well, I aim to please. ;-)

fallen_angel
03/28/2006 01:20 am
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
buffy dead? can't be. what's up ur sleeve?
Nope. She's not dead. But she did get shot at the end of "Seeing Red" this fic starts to AU after that point. Spike's in Africa. Maybe he "missed the memo?"

vladt
03/27/2006 11:30 pm
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
excellent beginning. thanks for the fine read.
You are very welcome. :-)

kim
03/27/2006 10:16 pm
Monsters And Iconoclasts         
Really feel the pain he's going through, here. Well done.
Thank you. I never can tell if I'm getting the emotion across to you guys.

Verda
07/13/2006 11:51 pm
Rumor Mill         
I'd noticed this story's updates a few times but had so many others that I'd been reading and didn't make time for it till now,and WOW! I'm sorry I didn't start this sooner. Can't wait to get caught up, it's so good. Thanks for the read.
You're very welcome. I'm so glad you're enjoying it, and have the time now to read it.

VWalk
07/01/2006 12:00 am
Rumor Mill         
Wow - I discovered this story quite by accident. BUT I AM TOTALLY HOOKED BY THE FIRST CHAPTER.

Keep the updates coming cause this looks like a great story. I always thought it too strange that no one seemed to make a big deal or even care that a "demon" went and voluntarily got his soul.
But they made such a big deal out of Angel's curse. Never made sense to me... I like how you started out - can't wait to see where it goes.
I try to update and respond on a fairly regular basis, so no worries there. I never understood that either. I curse implies just that- it wasn't wanted. It'll be a ride.:) I hope you stay with me, I think it'll be worth it.

ariadne
04/25/2006 03:34 am
Rumor Mill         
i like this story. getting the council involved is very interesting. i loved Quentin going to Giles. that was too funny. can't wait to read the next one.
Glad you're enjoying it.

~*~Tasha~*~
03/30/2006 05:00 am
Rumor Mill         
Excellent start here, FMS. I know that I reviewed this at the BSC because I saw Ch. 1 there first when I was reposting there. I'll be reading it here from now on.
Thanks! I'll look for your comments here then.

03/28/2006 09:34 am
Rumor Mill         
Very interesting chapter. I like that Giles doesn't trust the council, doesn't like them and doesn't hide it. And the way he made sure that Willow received help and didn't fall under the uncaring hands of the council.
I'm glad you liked it. I always thought that Spike and Giles were more alike than they liked to think. And we all know Giles thinks of the Scoobies as his kids. He would never turn Willow over to the Council.

fallen angel
03/22/2006 08:40 pm
Rumor Mill         
he's already got his soul or still trying? cos interuptions in spike's soul-getting gig r not wanted. but i like ur fic so far. hpefully u'll keep me glued
If you'll notice, this story is cannon up to "Seeing Red." Spike left for Africa during that episode. Travers implied that the vampire had already requested restoration. Giles just has to play catch-up.

idk5743228
03/22/2006 04:39 pm
Rumor Mill         
Whoa, the idea of Xander dying as well would put a different slant on Willow's recovery. I'm assuming that Willow was responsible, but I didn't see any details. Season 7 would truly play out differently. I am seriously looking forward to this fiction.
Willow is indeed resposible. No "Yellow Crayon" speech this time, just the knowledge that she killed her friend.

kim
03/22/2006 01:53 pm
Rumor Mill         
Interesting premise, to bring Giles into this from the beginning of Spike's soul-having. I'm hoping for a more compassionate Giles this time?

Don't worry, Quentin. No other vampire is going to go trying this any time soon. Spike's doing it because he loves more than most anybody you could ever find.
I'm right there with you, Kim. Could be a more compassionate Giles. But remember a certian Slayer's angry son? He could be coming into play soon.

03/22/2006 12:26 pm
Rumor Mill         
ohhhhhh excellent start
Thank you.

Lou
03/22/2006 11:59 am
Rumor Mill         
I'm guessing they're wanting Giles to do the bad thing. More please
Maybe...read and find out;-)

yangchencen
03/22/2006 11:34 am
Rumor Mill         
This is an interesting start! Please write more!
More coming very soon.

SpaceLord
03/22/2006 09:02 am
Rumor Mill         
I take it that this story will be more straight forward and not such a brain challenge as vanishing point ;)
Not so much with the thinking, but I still hope it's a good story.

Miss Rose
03/22/2006 07:33 am
Rumor Mill         
Great start! Looks like you've got another really interesting story on your hands, I like the plot. I can't wait to find out what kind of journey you're gonna take Spike and Buffy on this time. :)
Stay tuned for more. Thanks for the B-day wishes;-)

03/22/2006 07:10 am
Rumor Mill         
i hope the "existence" of the council ceases to exist! if that makes sense...lol...this is an interesting start...like this so far...it's sad that xander's dead, though :(
It'll be interesting. It would have been something to see if M.E. had kept that in though. Could you imagine the kind of torment the "First" could have unleashed on Spike using Xander's form?