A Different Light by dreamweaver

04/14/2014 05:59 pm
Chapter 11         
One of these days I'm gonna have to stop reading your stories and get back to my work...  Of course, I just may have to read them all first...

Blue
DeepBlueJoy's Stories
http://www.tthfanfic.org/authors.php?no=12717&list=profile
Oh, thank you!  I’m so glad you’re liking my stories!  A Different Light was my first try at an alternate world.  I love science fiction and fantasy, and ADL and then Running Wild later were me trying to learn how to write it. :)

Jags
11/16/2013 07:29 am
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Wonderful
Thank you! It was my first try at creating a believable alternate world. I'm so glad you liked it. :)

Becca
12/24/2011 08:35 am
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Wow. Just wow. This story is absolutely amazing. 
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!

04/11/2010 04:52 am
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Lovely D&D type adventure

I'm so glad you enjoyed it!  Thank you!  It was my very first try at an alternate dimension.

Magemaster
03/31/2010 01:18 am
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Amazing story. Well written and captivating.
Thank you!  It was my very first try at an alternate dimension.  I'm so glad you liked it!

calminthechaos
11/19/2009 12:48 am
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Perfection!
Thank you!  'A Different Light' was my first attempt at an original alternate dimension and I was pleased with the way it turned out.  I'm so glad you liked it!

lmal
07/31/2009 04:42 am
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Wow! Thanks for a wonderful story, very well written. Keep writing, I'll keep reading... and reviewing (it's my first time)
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you enjoyed it!  This was my first try at an alternate world and I was so relieved when everyone liked it.

pearlseed
06/11/2009 03:31 am
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The action adventure part of the story is fabulous.  The love story is strong and sweet.  Right amount of blasting Angel and setting Giles on his ear.   Really enjoyed your alternate world--always find Alpha Spike being all manly a real turn-on and love it that he separates the bedroom and the world.  He is a smart cookie to know that one place he must be in control and the other is a matter to be decided.  Pretty, fun, very hot in the old style, just the hint of the act is quite enough--don't need to see every single caress.  Nice nice nice work and thank you for  your efforts.
I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!  I love Alpha Spike and I think he would know that in the bedroom Buffy, always unsure about love and emotions, needs to be led, but in fighting needs have an equal partner.  Somehow this story called for the 'old style' in the love scenes - I don't know why.  I get more explicit in 'Change Partners and Dance.'  :D

Niori
06/06/2009 05:13 am
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I really love your alternate dimension fics. You do such a good job making your other dimension socities so intricate. They're not flat at all, but totally three dimensional.
Great story.
Oh, thank you!  This was my first try at another dimension and I'm so glad you find it believable!  I'm trying to learn how to create different worlds, with an eye to hopefully getting published in the end.  Writing Spuffy is a wonderful learning process because I love the two of them so much and it's such fun to write.

03/29/2009 10:02 pm
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I love your style! This is my favorite story of yours that I've read, so far, and I can't wait to read the rest of your stuff. The particular historical setting for this one is very original (not to mention fascinating) among Spuffy stories. I couldn't put it down. In all your stories, your Buffy & Spike characterizations are spot on, I think, and their interactions are excellent--they're poignant, funny and go straight to the heart of the matter. I adore the way you do Spike (i.e. the ability to adapt, the passion, the despairing belief that he doesn't really deserve to be loved and is "beneath" Buffy). These are part of what make him the man we've all come to love and you portray him beautifully--much better than just about every other writer I've read. And I love your dialogues--very witty and compelling.

I love the recurring theme that it is what you do, not what you say or have, that really matters. Your heart--not the presence of a soul--is what counts. I also like that the way you often resolve the issues in canon situations is by having the characters actually communicate with each other where they held back in the series and showing how this could have changed everything.

If you're interested in constructive criticism, there's only one thing I would say, but it might take a while for me to explain what I mean. As I'm sure you are aware, there are certain elements you weave into every story (e.g. most or all of the original Scoobies are fairly evil; Giles and Xander are both usually bumbling idiots, though sometimes it is mostly just Xander except briefly in "Learning the Dance"; if Angel shows up he's also a bumbling idiot; Spike loses his chip if he ever had it; ends with a mating claim). So, even though the story lines vary widely between your works, these recurring elements make them all very similar.

Now, don't get me wrong--I personally am a huge fan of most of these elements. However, it would be nice to see more variance--like if different stories contained some of these elements and changed others. For example, a story with a more supportive Giles, maybe one where Spike is hurt and Angel actually cares for him as a sire or something else. I guess it would be nice to see more of other characters having the ability to change once they see the goodness in Spike. I see that you really like the mating claim and I like the way you do the claims, which make for a great ending, but it is a bit redundant as the ending for every story. I know having all of these elements make for a more perfect story, but, I don't know...having all of them in every story maybe takes away from their power a bit (if you look at the stories together). Does that make sense? Anyway, thanks for sharing your stories. I love them & have quickly become an avid fan.
Thank you so much!  I'm so glad you like my stories and the dialogue, and think my characterizations are correct.  I do love Spike and Buffy and would hate to get them wrong.  What you said about Spike is the way I see him.

I really do believe that one's actions are what count, and for me heart always trumps soul.  Even on the show, Spike always cares more and tries harder than any souled person there and is never given any credit for it.  And everyone's refusal to listen to each other or communicate properly drove me crazy, which is why I keep trying to show how different things could have been if they only did.

Truly, I don't believe that the original Scoobies are 'fairly evil'!  But, even on the show, they do make mistakes, do not admit or apologize for them, and seem very self-absorbed, not really seeming to see or care about others.  Mind you, so does Buffy.  This occasionally makes them convenient as, not villains exactly, but hindrances.  Tara or Anya seem to care so much more and caring is very important for me.

Angel?  I know I do dump on him, because I so prefer Spike.  But Angel uses people, even down to wiping their memories or setting them up so they have no choice but to follow him - out of their own goodness and loyalty, mind! - even into death.  I've seen stories where Angel cares for Spike as a sire - but I find myself really unable to believe that.  Throughout BTVS and AtS, Angel shows no caring or understanding of Spike, only a definite dislike and antagonism.

I like Giles, not in his current persona of villain that canon writers are making of him, but the original likeable man, falling over his feet but trying hard.  But one always has to remember that he is a Watcher, trained to their dogma.  I do have him being supportive by the end of a couple of stories, but to remain in character, it has to be a long, hard struggle for him to get there. 

I admit to disliking Xander, who seems to bring nothing to the mix but bigotry and nastiness.  Canon keeps telling us he is supposed to be the 'Heart' - what heart?  He constantly exploits and disses Anya.  He ignores Willow's crush on him in the beginning, but once she gets involved with Oz, suddenly gets the hots for her (out of possessiveness, not real caring, it seems to me) and precipitates trouble.  He tries to rape Buffy out of lust, then pretends it never happened - but never lets anyone forget Spike's attempt which was made out of love and desperation, not just lust.  He is responsible for several deaths, as in 'Once More With Feeling', but never takes responsibility or shows remorse, only worries that he might be taken as the demon Sweet's 'queen'.  I could go on and on.  So, sorry, I can't help writing him that way!

Spike becoming free of his chip and being able to fight back against anyone trying to stake him seems important to me.  And, to stay in character, the Scoobies should have trouble seeing Spike's goodness - they never did so on the show.  The mating claim is a problem, because I see it as the ultimate commitment between Buffy and Spike.  It also makes Spike safe from any action the Scoobies or Giles might take against him.  So many people want and ask for it  for that reason that I keep putting it in. 

To be honest, I never expected people to read my stories together!  :D  I just posted them every couple of months and thought people would come to them new without bothering to read the others.  I'm starting to learn different!  So I'll try to come up with variations, though it's difficult without ruining the dynamic between Buffy and Spike.  I'm so glad you like the stories anyway!

01/19/2009 12:01 am
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Just read all of this in one sitting ... I was completely hooked.  The alternate dimension you created was very interesting, and well conceived with a different manner of acting, speaking, dressing everything.  I very much liked all the details that Spike understood, being so much older than Buffy (gas lamps and how to treat the servants), great touch and great insight into his former, human life.  I also really liked the supposed villian in your story - just another lost soul trying to find his way back home - and I appreciated the intelligence you game him.  He wasn't just some one sided evil demon rampaging the countryside for the sheer carnage of it all, he was a thinking, feeling character.  Cheers!  And, of course I loved all the Spuffy action and the perfect happy ending you gave them.  Wonderful story.  I'll just be off to read everything you've ever written now :-)
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you liked it!  I wanted to learn how to create a believable alternate world and villains who have some justification for being villainous. :D 
Anyone born before 1900 wouldn't have trouble seeing similarities in any period from 1600 to 1900 and easily adjusting to it.  Things changed rapidly and exponentially after 1900, but, prior to that, change really was slow.  Buffy, born in our modern age of electricity and computers would have difficulty relating; but Spike, born in 1852 and turned by Dru in 1880, would have no trouble with gas lamps and such, and since he was brought up a well-to-to English gentleman, would have been familiar with having servants around.  It was fun to explore that.  My other dimensional jump story, 'Running Wild', gave me even more opportunity to explore his talents and, as I'm trying to learn how to write alternate worlds, I'll probably be fashioning more dimensions in the future.  They're fun!
But the Spuffy is the heart of it.  I love writing that and there will always be a happy ending because I really want those two to end up together.  Thank you so much for enjoying it!

01/02/2009 09:17 am
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really enjoyed reading your alternative dimension stories - well done - Loved the new characters you created for this one very much.
Oh, thank you!  I'm trying to learn how to create believable alternate worlds and this was my first attempt at it.  I'm so glad you liked it!  I'm really fond of this story.

lulu
12/30/2008 04:49 am
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Enjoyed the love story -- I like to see them happy!  The dragon was funny, too. :-)

Thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!  I really had fun with the dragon.

11/19/2008 09:35 pm
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I do love your happy endings:) ... Always cheers me up...
Are you working on something new, btw?. It has been kinda silent  for a couple of months now. Need my dreamweaver updates to keep me through computer sience.
Yes, and I should have it done very soon!  I would have had a new story up by now, but real life got in the way with a family member ending up in hospital and major renovations having to be done to the house, including putting on a new roof before winter.  That's all out of the way now and I've only got one more chapter to be written on my new story, which has turned out to be another long one anyway.  I get too self-conscious to post until the whole thing's done, but there's only the last chapter left which shouldn't take too long.  Once that's done, I'll start posting it as I get each chapter proofed. 
Thank you so much for liking my work and wanting more!

10/01/2008 07:15 am
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I keep a list of my favorite stories--and this is definitely going on my list!  What a wonderfully complex plot, a richly textured alternate world, and nice progression of Spike and Buffy's relationship.  Really, really, really well done!!!
Oh, thank you so much!  This is the first time I've tried to create an alternate world and I'm so glad that people like it and find it believable.  I'm trying to do more of that now. 

09/25/2008 08:59 pm
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Excellent!!!
Thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!

treadingthedark
09/20/2008 09:14 pm
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What lovely story! Really romantic and erotic, plus the adventure part was excellent as well.
Loved it. Thanks.
Thank you so much!  It was so much fun to write - my first try at mixing romance and adventure.  I'm so glad you liked it!

notwhomever
09/02/2008 10:17 pm
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loved it, a feel good story thats beautifully written
Thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!  It was a new venture for me and I learned a lot writing it.

09/02/2008 10:30 am
Chapter 11         
A nice happy ending.  Great story.  :)
Thank you so much!  I love happy endings and I had so much fun with this story.

08/27/2008 02:23 am
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I should probably have been commenting all along, but I decided to wait until the end so I could just gush incoherently at another one of your fabulous stories.  You totally blow me away with every foray you make into the Spuffy relationship; Spike valuing tenderness above all else brought tears to my eyes and a lump to my throat; Buffy realizing she can make her own decisions (and about time too!!!); just a really amazing story, and I can't wait to see what you bring to the table next!  *applauds madly*  Bravo!!!
Wow, thank you so much!  I'd never mixed adventure with romance before, or tried a longer story, so I was really worried.  Spike always seemed to need tenderness, and I really wanted Buffy to finally mature and grow up.  I'm so glad you liked it!

spuffy chick
08/26/2008 08:47 am
Chapter 11         
oh..that was wonderful! i had fun reading.
Thank you!  It was my first try at mixing adventure with romance.  I'm so glad you liked it!

08/26/2008 02:01 am
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fine blend of adventure and romance. thank you.
Oh, thank you for liking it!  I was very worried, because I'd never tried a detailed, plot-filled adventure/romance before and was nervous that I wouldn't do it right.  I'm so glad you think I was successful at it!  Thank you!

08/25/2008 06:19 am
Chapter 11         
 OMG i love this story i came on it in the recently updated stories and fell in love very good i love the way it is written and told it really shows truths with spike, buffy, her friends and angel and how they treat her and how the only one who treats her fairly and lets her make her own desitions is Spike the souless vampire it just great
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you liked it!  I really believe that Spike was the only one who was really honest with her and didn't try to control her.  He was the perfect partner for her.

olinka
08/24/2008 07:57 pm
Chapter 11         
What a great story :) I especially liked your analogy between making decisions for someone else and raping their minds, as well as that coin metaphor. Very well done :) oh, and the description of claiming.... so strong and beautiful
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you liked the story!  Taking away someone's choices like that and forcing things on them against their will seems like a kind of rape to me.  Angel keeps doing that.  Look at the way he changed everybody's memories to suit himself at the end of Season 4 on AtS.

Lea
08/22/2008 06:54 pm
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Oh, my. What a read. Simply wonderful! You truly are a dreamweaver :) I fell in love with Spike (all over again, haha) because of this story. Thank you! Looking forward to your future works. All the best /Lea
Oh, thank you!  I adore Spike and can't help preaching to the choir about him!  :D  I'm so glad you liked it!

08/22/2008 02:36 pm
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This is one of the most enjoyable Spuffy Alternative Dimension works I have read - I completely loved reading your story and the realm that you created and the way that Buffy develops as a woman and a warrior.  Having Spike transformed  her consort and partner champion is a wonderful way to bring joy and love to their lives -

Thanks for the wonderful read -
Wow!  Thank you so much!  I always thought that Spike was the perfect partner for her, but canon would never allow that.  I'm so glad you liked it!

ValerieLockett
08/22/2008 04:36 am
Chapter 11         
I enjoyed this story greatly.  My only complaint was that I found it  when you had just posted chapter 5.  I had a hard time waiting for the updates.  Now to go and read some of your other stories.

Thank you 
I do hate waiting too.  That's why I post only when the story is finished and only needs to be proofed .  I'm so pleased you liked the story!  Thank you!

08/22/2008 04:17 am
Chapter 11         
loved it!!!!!!! fabulous, happy ending! (i'm a sucker for them happy endings!) great story!
I'm a sucker for them too!  I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!

All4Spike
08/22/2008 02:12 am
Chapter 11         
{Heaves satisfied sigh} Oh that was nice. I'm glad Buffy told Angel and Giles off and it was about time they started respecting her opinions!

Don't suppose you fancy a sequel with them facing the Initiative together? Please?
Wow!  How did you guess?  But not a sequel - a whole new story, mostly from Spike's viewpoint, probably going to be called 'Spike's Initiative' or some variation on that theme.  I'm delighted you liked this story enough to want a sequel!  Thank you!

08/21/2008 11:33 pm
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“Got a heart. You don’t need that soul. You do better with that heart of yours than Angel does with his soul.”   Oh, so very true!

And they got their happy ending!
For me, heart trumps soul every time!  I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!

08/21/2008 08:58 pm
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Great story.  The claiming was great.    Loved the way Buffy and Spike  worked together to  "solve the problem" .  Also the idea with the blue blood , to force her to see him and his problem  was a great  device to bring them closer together - a step at a time.
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you liked it!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/21/2008 08:37 pm
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Lovely ending to a brilliant story.
Oh, thank you so much!  That's great to hear from an experienced author!  Thank you!

08/21/2008 08:00 pm
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Lovely. It's nice to see her dearest making the leap to acceptance of a grownup Buffy. Yay, Joyce! Yay, Willow! C'mon Giles: you can do it!

This was lovely and sweet. I was starting to worry that Spike's disappearance was due to the Initiative, but then I realized you'd already tortured the poor guy enough. You have a much lower threshold for Spike pain than Joss ever did. Thanks for that.
Getting him chipped at this point would have been too cruel!  Joss really put Spike through the wringer.  Don't know why - it seemed to me that Xander deserved it more, but nothing ever really happened to him.
Thank you for liking the story!

nea
08/21/2008 06:10 pm
Chapter 11         
I loved it.  Especially that they gave each other rings.  That was sweet.  Wonderful ending to a wonderful story.
Thank you!  Somehow that seemed right with the Gem of Amara and the claim being like marriage.  I'm so glad you liked it!

lilashannah
08/21/2008 03:39 pm
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ahhh...It's over? Dang! Have to tell ya, you did a great job! Can't wait to see what you come up with next!
Thank you so much!  Working on the next one right now.

Gill B
08/21/2008 03:19 pm
Chapter 11         
Always a relief when you sort out the problems at the end.  I was glad you got rid of Harmony (there's something about her that drives me mad...) and the idea of a vampire called Brian is wonderful!  I'm always delighted when Angel gets his as well; I never took to him as the only time that DB looked comfortable playing the part was as Angelus (though the Irish accent drove me mad - I like him far more in Bones; much less one dimensional).

Thank you for another wonderful story - roll on the next one...
I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!  Harmony - she's sweet, but she's so dumb!  And I always thought DB was wooden.  I can't take credit for the name 'Brian'!  Wasn't that the name Harmony called the vamp whose head Spike slammed into the table?  I may be mistaken because, when I ran the episode again for this story, I was concentrating on what Buffy and Spike's voices were like at this point in canon - but that's what it sounded like.

08/21/2008 01:55 pm
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Awwwwww  :)
Oh, thank you!  I think they belong together!

Pam S
08/21/2008 01:48 pm
Chapter 11         
 All Claimed/Married and All...

 Yea for the happy ending..
Always wanted them to be together!  Thank you for liking it!

sin_amatic
08/21/2008 10:15 am
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DreamWeaver,

Thank you so much for giving us something Joss & Co. never could or would: A  _maturing_ woman in a slayer's body.  It was a "nice" revelation though I admit I was gonna "go medieval"  on both of ya over the cold hearted, "no tangles" at the end of the last chappy.   (But I got over it. :)

As for your "Spike," well you said it best: “Got a heart. You don’t need that soul. You do better with that heart of yours than Angel does with his soul.”  (Heart trumps soul.  <insert>Snoopy dance<here>)

Great stuff...  Brava!  

btw  Sorry if this comes up a double post... pc hiccup! 


I thought that being independent and far from Scoobie pressure would give her the chance to grow up.  But I couldn't resist the nasty cliffie at the end of the last chapter!  Sorry! :D  As far as I'm concerned, heart always trumps soul!  No double post.  Thank you so much for liking the story!

Liza
08/21/2008 09:32 am
Chapter 11         
Thank you.  This was a glorious romp. And appreciated the swift updates more than I can say!  xx
Oh, thank you for liking it!  You'll always get fast updates from me because I get too self-conscious to post until the story is completely written and I only have the proofreading to do.  I'm a nitpicker, obsessing over every comma, and keep changing things right up to the last minute.

Dee
08/21/2008 09:09 am
Chapter 11         
Loved this! Any chance of a sequel???
This one sort of feels finished, so it won't have a sequel.  But I'm working on a whole new one and hope to have it up soon.  Thank you so much for liking this!

shelly
08/21/2008 09:07 am
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wow! Excellent story i enjoyed each chapter and found myself anxiously waiting for a new one each day! you have a way with words! thanks!
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you liked it.

Kat
08/21/2008 08:34 am
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That was an amazing story. from start to finish it kept me entrapped. wow :)
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!

08/26/2008 01:10 am
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very good read, thank you. wonderful twist with the gem.
I couldn't resist the irony.

08/21/2008 08:38 pm
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I want to cry.
Denial-Buffy - she would.

08/21/2008 08:17 am
Chapter 10         
no buffy! don't let him go!!!!! brilliant chappies, i haven't been reviewing the past few, sorry! but, i did love them all. loved the fact it was a dragon, how he was intelligent, was waiting for someone to suggest they send him home, knew spike loved buffy and would want to stay, loved how that scene played out, and really want buffy to realize she can't go back to her normal life and be without him! love the twist about the gem still being on earth. can't wait for the end!
Oh, I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!  Last chapter coming up.

08/21/2008 05:08 am
Chapter 10         
I guess you don't have 45 days in which to cure Buffy's blindness. LOL

Very painful (and, given the circumstances, rather inevitable) parting. Part of me was really hoping they would stay, even though I didn't think Buffy would...I think they could have been very happy there. *sigh*

Still loving the fic, can't wait to see where the next chap goes.

I don't think even 45 days would do it. :D  I liked this world too and was sorry to have to let it go.  Last chapter coming up.

08/21/2008 04:03 am
Chapter 10         
From high joy to deep sorrow...all in one chapter.  Looking forward to how this situation will resolve.
Thank you!  I'm so glad you like it!  Last chapter coming right up.

nea
08/20/2008 10:22 pm
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Aw man.  I want the rest.  I guess I'll just have to wait 'til tomorrow.  This chapter was great, though.  Poor Spike.
Thank you for liking it!  That's Buffy, isn't it?  Half the time, watching the show, I wanted to whack her over the head with a two by four and yell, "Wake up!"

08/20/2008 09:45 pm
Chapter 10         
So much bling! Dragon scales, medals, rings, and all the rest of the Amara trove, too. They are showered with riches, but will Buffy recognize the greatest treasure before her? Can't wait until tomorrow!
You know Buffy - always in denial.  I'm so glad you like it!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/20/2008 08:57 pm
Chapter 10         
Noo!! Please bring him back!! In the one chapter that's left... :-s Oh no!! Badness. Fix it please.
Wow!  I'm so glad you like it!  Last chapter up tomorrow.

Lilashannah
08/20/2008 08:36 pm
Chapter 10         
How I hate Buffy let me count the ways!You have to get them together...My poor Spike.(I wish!)
What a great chappy, can't wait untill the next one.What a hell of a story.
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you like it!  It had to happen - Buffy's still in denial as always.

All4Spike
08/20/2008 08:22 pm
Chapter 10         
Oh no! They can't split up now! Come on... find a way for them to get back together......
Had to happen.  I'm so glad you're liking this!  Thank you!

Deb
08/20/2008 07:38 pm
Chapter 10         
Another heartbreakingly wonderful chapter!
Thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!

Gill B
08/20/2008 04:18 pm
Chapter 10         
Poor Spike - shafted as usual...  I can only hope that you have a little something up your sleeve to make it up to him.
Oh, yeah!  Last chapter up tomorrow.  I'm curious.  How close did my ideas come to yours?  :D

08/20/2008 03:50 pm
Chapter 10         
GAH!!!  That was awful!  (not badly written, mind you, just...so sad!)  Why did they have to leave?  The 45 days...  sigh.  You're the writer, I'll have to trust you.

And -  are you NUTS?  Thinking we'd get bored with THAT??  I'm planning to go back and read all your stuff now, this was so good.  Looking forward to more new writing, too, mind you.  :)
It had to happen sooner or later, right?  And it would have been just as painful for Spike then!

Wow!  Thank you!  You wouldn't believe how nervous I was!  I'd only done straight romance before.  I love writing Spuffy, so there will definitely be more!

08/20/2008 03:31 pm
Chapter 10         
I want to cry!
It had to happen sooner or later.  Thank you for liking it!

Belle
08/20/2008 03:19 pm
Chapter 10         
aww so sad! great chapter! looking forward to the end!
I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!  Last chapter up tomorrow.

08/20/2008 03:08 pm
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Thanks for another great chapter - I'm looking forward to the next!
Thank you for liking it!  Last one up tomorrow.

08/20/2008 02:06 pm
Chapter 10         
Well, that's pretty crappy of Buffy, although completely expected.  It takes a lot to get through that thick skull of hers!  I'm counting on you to make it right! ;o)
You know Buffy - denial all the way!

08/26/2008 12:54 am
Chapter 9         
happy to see how upset both of them are NOT with the 44 day delay. this is a fine tale. thanks for the fun read.
They're both liking it here!

08/21/2008 03:44 am
Chapter 9         
Great reasoning..."practicalities" indeed!
Buffy's learned to see beyond black and white now, that grays are important too.

08/20/2008 08:03 am
Chapter 9         
Why do I have Sean Connery's voice in my head... This is a lovely story, with great suspense and so well written.  It's a real treat to read.  Gotta love a (reformed Spike) = (an in love Spike.)  

Only one problem with your character's voice.   Would Joss's Buffy  actually climb down from on high and  _laugh_ not once, but several times? And so freel?  (We are talking about the same girl who I affectionately refer to as, "redwood up the tush... Can't get past the no-soul Summers")  If it is.... Be still my heart!

Thanks for sharing.   Ta!


You're the second person who's mentioned Sean Connery! :D  And I hadn't even thought of him; I was thinking of Tolkien's dragon in 'The Hobbit"!
Joss's Buffy really is uptight.  This one is in another dimension - this all-free zone - where she doesn't have to worry about her duty and have the Scoobies yammering at her all the time.  Wait until they're back in Sunnydale though.
Thank you so much for liking it!

08/20/2008 05:37 am
Chapter 9         
Once again had to play catch up - *sigh* looking forward to tomorrow's installment.
I hope you like it!  Posting it right now.

Deb
08/20/2008 03:37 am
Chapter 9         
Amazing story.  Can't wait for updates!
Thank you!  More coming.

08/20/2008 02:32 am
Chapter 9         
I just found this and I'm really enjoying it.

I really like the world and the characters you have created, very believable and nicely rounded out.

Poor Spike, Buffy can be so clueless sometimes--it will be interesting to see how (if) that changes by the time they go home.

I look forward to reading the remainder of this story.
Oh, thank you!  I'd always done straight romance before and world building was a new experiment for me.  I'm so glad you like it!

08/19/2008 10:40 pm
Chapter 9         
I admit this was the way I'd hoped the story would go. Your dragon is pretty reasonable, all things considered. I wonder if he'll stay reasonable, or pull some last minute treachery.
I wanted an intelligent being, furious at the moment, but rational, having his own agenda.  I'm so glad you like it!  Thank you!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/19/2008 10:14 pm
Chapter 9         
Great update. Ha, a dragon. Cool. And now they get to spend 44 days getting to know each other. Sweet.
Thank you!  I had fun with that dragon.  I'm so glad you like this!

nea
08/19/2008 09:11 pm
Chapter 9         
This is absolutely fantastic.  I love your imagination with the plot and characters.  I look forward to the rest of it.
Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you like it!  More coming.

08/19/2008 05:27 pm
Chapter 9         
I love the dragon.  Spike willing to sacrifice his life for Buffy:  loved it. Great chapter. 
Spike would.  I'm so glad you liked the dragon; I was fond of him.  Thank you for liking the story!

Belle
08/19/2008 03:45 pm
Chapter 9         
Excellent chapters!! I'm so sad to see it's almost ending :( But I'll enjoy reading the rest of it! And hopefully be looking forward to any future works you plan to write :D
Thank you so much!  I'll be writing more, for sure.  I love writing Spuffy!

08/19/2008 03:01 pm
Chapter 9         
Loved the dragon; the entire chapter was just fabulous! Sad there are only a few chapters left!
I hoped people would like the dragon.  Thank you!

08/19/2008 02:57 pm
Chapter 9         
I love the way Buffy found a way to send the dragon home.  I hope nobody gets any bright ideas about unauthorized revenge.  I do sort of wonder why Buffy and Spike wouldn't be able to cross the void when it gets opens for the dragon to pass.  
Then again, I'm really glad they'll have 45 more days.  I do wish there were more days to this story - it's excellent.   
I was thinking of only one destination at a time, rather like the Stargate.  I like playing in this world, but the story is already almost twice as long as I usually write them.  This is my first attempt at longer fic and I was really worried that people might find it dull.  Thank you so much for liking it!

08/19/2008 02:08 pm
Chapter 9         
Great!  Love the way you worked both identifying the 'monster' and figuring out the solution - and they still have 60 days!  Great fun!  Love this story.  THanks!
Thank you!  I'm so glad you like it!  Plot and world building was a new experience for me and I'm so glad that I seem to be doing it right!

08/25/2008 11:26 pm
Chapter 8         
very good read, thank you. and a great way to end the chapter
I couldn't resist the cliffhanger!  I'm so glad you liked it!

nikki
08/19/2008 03:51 am
Chapter 8         

08/19/2008 02:52 am
Chapter 8         
I loved the byplay of the nature-loving Spike and civilization-bound Buffy. A very hot chapter, an all ways. Of course, now I am hoping for help for the dragon.

Also, I wonder how Buffy can be so dense. T'was ever thus.
You know Buffy - denial all the way.  Thank you for liking this!

Sandra
08/19/2008 01:43 am
Chapter 8         
Oh this is so good! I wish there was another chapter now! Great job, I love the story!
I'm so glad you like it!  Thank you!  Next chapter up tomorrow.

08/18/2008 11:48 pm
Chapter 8         
You warned in your notes that the action was not the main thing, but I think your have created a very well rounded story here and I'm enjoying all aspects of it.  Can't wait for the next chapter.
Oh, I'm so relieved!  I've only done straight romance before and this was my first try at action and different worlds.  I'm so glad you're liking it!  (That warning came about because I had people emailing me saying, 'Where's the battle, where's the power boost, where are the prophecies?'   This on stories clearly marked  'Romance'!   I thought  it might be better to warn them that any action here was still geared towards that.)

08/25/2008 10:04 pm
Chapter 7         
buffy is doing quite well. very good read, thank you.
She's starting to mature.

08/21/2008 02:51 am
Chapter 7         
Gotta say that Spike is right is right to call Buffy on her behavior.  Will help her to understand herself.
That's it exactly!  How can anyone deal with things properly unless one understands oneself?  I hated them always keeping Buffy blinkered on the show.

08/18/2008 11:30 pm
Chapter 7         
Great chapter.  Looking forward to the next one. :)
I had fun with that one!  I'm so glad you're liking it!  Thank you!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/18/2008 10:31 pm
Chapter 7         
Hot and lovely and sweet. Perfect chapter. Look forward to the next installment.
Oh, thank you!  Proofing as fast as I can!

08/18/2008 02:16 am
Chapter 7         
Very enlighening for both of them; I'm curious as to how they'll both deal with the knowledge.  Thanks for all the updates!
You know the answer!  :D  Spike will deal; Buffy will deny.

Bridget
08/17/2008 09:27 pm
Chapter 7         
Good chapters. I get so tired of denial Buffy.  I hope they find the destroyer soon.  I also hope that Buffy acknowledges her feelings for Spike.  
I'm so glad you like it!  Thank you!  You know Buffy - she'll fight them like crazy.

Jess
06/28/2012 10:18 pm
Chapter 6         
Hi, I've read two of your stories so far and am loving them!  Glad to have found these.  After reading your profile - I saw you have a book on amazon, I'm buying it right now :)  Thanks for the great Spuffy fics!
I’m so glad you like my writing!  Thank you!  I love writing about Buffy and Spike, so once I build up a backlist with Ellora’s Cave and Amazon, I’m going to sneak in a few more Spuffy stories. :)

08/25/2008 09:34 pm
Chapter 6         
wonderful read, thank you. come the morning i'm reasonably sure it will be  all spike's fault.
She's still feeling free of guilt though.

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/18/2008 10:19 pm
Chapter 6         
Mmmm yum. You did her surrender perfectly.
The fun part! :D  I'm so glad you liked it!

08/17/2008 05:50 pm
Chapter 6         
I see that sinister attraction finally took its toll; lucky Buffy! Curious to see what she'll do in the morning light.
That sinister attraction's hard to resist!  :D  But Buffy will be Buffy.

08/17/2008 02:33 pm
Chapter 6         
I like the fact that you've  accented Buffy as a character who cares more about what others think than what she wants.  Sometimes one does not know what one wants until they come up upon it....and wow did Buffy ever!
Buffy does care, which is good.  But, too often, she cares too much what other people think and lets them walk all over her, not trusting her own judgment about issues.  She's remarkably strong fighting demons, but then lets Giles or the Scoobies tell her how to think.  But now she knows what she wants.

Keldrena
08/17/2008 06:17 am
Chapter 6         
Wow, that was really good. Thanks for the quick updates.
Oh, I'm so glad you like this!  More coming today.

08/25/2008 09:22 pm
Chapter 5         
if she doesn't accept the "all-free zone," she can fall back on it's all spike fault. very good read, thank you.
Two good excuses, right?  :D

08/18/2008 10:49 pm
Chapter 5         
Oh, she's going to crack.  Who could resist Spike for long?  LOL.
I'd have jumped his bones in the pit! :D  I wanted to have fun with a 'sinister attraction' Spike.  I'm so glad you like it!

08/16/2008 09:35 pm
Chapter 5         

My, my the tension is amping up and you're doing a beautiful job with it! Spike can be very persuasive and I wonder just how long till Buffy caves!

I hadn't done Spike using his sinister attraction for seduction yet and wanted to play with it.  It was fun!  I'm so glad you're enjoying it!

caia
08/16/2008 09:12 pm
Chapter 5         
 An interesting textured universe you've created here, which makes Buffy and Spike's cooperation and growing friendship believable and compelling.

Well done.
Oh, thank you!  It's my first try at creating a different world and I'm so glad you find it believable!

08/16/2008 03:04 pm
Chapter 5         
I love reading about how Buffy is filled with anguish and internal battles.   Also  agree with the serpent allegory.
He is being that, isn't he? :D  Seduction through that 'sinister attraction'!  It was fun to play with that side of him.  I'm so glad you're enjoying it!

08/16/2008 11:00 am
Chapter 5         
Ah Buffy, there's no such thing as a free zone, really. You're still you in the morning, or next week, or next month. Better to find your own way to happiness, if it's gonna last. Even if it takes a little longer to get there.
She knows.  But he is so tempting and she wants to take that excuse he just gave her.

08/25/2008 09:08 pm
Chapter 4         
spike and buffy at their best. wonderful chapter, thank you.
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you liked it!

08/18/2008 10:27 pm
Chapter 4         
Glad to see this posted over here.  Great chapter.  Loved the ending, of course.
Thank you!  Now we're really getting into it. :D

08/16/2008 03:50 pm
Chapter 4         
Just wanted to let you know I am enjoying this very much! I always thought I was the only one who rather fancied seeing Spike riding a mechieta. I haven't followed the recent books in the 'Foreigner' series but enjoyed the first three so much. Great to see a favourite writer playing in TWO of my favourite worlds.
Have you read Sheri Tepper's 'Grass' as well?   You might like it!  I crossed the mecheita with her Hippae.

08/16/2008 02:37 pm
Chapter 4         
Great description of balancing on a steed.  Many rural people in the South have only one vehicle which means the rest of the family is dependent on using horses to get around.  At least my family did.

I love how Buffy was clueless to Spike's action. 
She didn't see it coming at all, which is so Buffy!
I only learned to ride a couple of years ago when we moved into a rural area and I vividly remember how scary it was!  And that back and forth that Buffy was put through when the h'laren got up came from my one experience with riding a camel.  I too found myself staring at the sky!

08/16/2008 04:11 am
Chapter 4         
Hah, you snuck some updates in on me. I'm really enjoying this story. And here I was worried that I had nothing to read tonight...
I'm doing one a day as I proof it.  I'm so glad you're enjoying this!  Thank you!

08/15/2008 10:04 pm
Chapter 4         
Your descriptions in this chapter were fabulous!  That kiss was too sexy!
Wow, thank you!  Those scenes are so much fun to write!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/15/2008 10:01 pm
Chapter 4         
HOT!!!! I look forward to more.
Thank you!  Aren't those scenes fun to write?  More up tomorrow.

08/15/2008 08:42 pm
Chapter 4         
Hey now, people! You're on a job, now, so settle down! The big bad is close. Focus! Or, you know, not.
They're going to have a really hard time concentrating for the next little while. :D

Bridget
08/15/2008 08:26 pm
Chapter 4         
This is a really great story and I loved the Spuffiness.
Oh, thank you!  It's going to heat up from here!

08/15/2008 08:05 pm
Chapter 4         
What'd she let loose?  Something as wild, as fierce, as strong and as dangerous as those h’laren things you've created.  As beautiful, too, I'd wager.

This is a great story.  I'm really enjoying it.  So glad to know that I'll get a new chapter every day till it's done, too!  I can't wait till tomorrow!  :)

Your Buffy and Spike are so true to form - I am loving how Buffy is so smart and capable, but still, she had her "duh" moment about the blood.  You've gotten Spike's voice just right as well. 
Oh, thank you!  I'm so glad you think I've got the two of them right!  I do love these two characters.  She has let loose something powerful in both of them by responding.  Thank you for liking this!

09/11/2008 03:33 pm
Chapter 3         
The stories great :) I can't get enough! though I'm having a hard time figuring what "nefai" and "avera" mean. I guess it's just something they say after a word or sentece :P
I'm so glad you're liking this!  Thank you!  BSV didn't have a place for Endnotes, so I wasn't able to put in the glossary that was available on the other sites.  Aver = 'sir' /  Avera = ma'am / Averin = the plural / Nefai = gentle being / Nefa'in = the plural (more formal than aver / avera)

08/25/2008 08:42 pm
Chapter 3         
very good read, thank you. loved buffy's“You were...worthy.”
She's starting to really see him.

Liza
08/15/2008 02:00 pm
Chapter 3         
Oh how lovely.  Never sure if I like fantasy fiction best with a foot in this world or totally Middle-Earth, but I'm really enjoying the change of scene. 
It's the first time I've tried a totally different world.  I wanted to see if I could make it believable.  Thank you so much for liking it!

anon462
08/15/2008 02:46 am
Chapter 3         

Oh Yes!!!   I liked it!!!   :D

Fantastic display of fighting skills, and they were just playing. Then one hit got through and Spike was down, but the demon was on it's feet immediately, pure death for anyone to face.

 

I wanted to demonstrate how dangerous Spike really is.  I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!

08/14/2008 07:21 pm
Chapter 3         
I liked this:
“There is such a thing as being too honorable, you moron!”
But he doesn't feel insulted until she compares him to Angel. Hee!

This is loads of fun. I'm interested in the mystery, as well as the burgeoning romance. Good stuff.
Being compared to Angel is the real insult; he doesn't mind anything else. :D  I'm so glad you're liking it!  I've never tried adventure plus romance before and I was worried.

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/14/2008 07:11 pm
Chapter 3         
About time she realised she was full of yummy haemoglobin!! :-) Great update.
She's still Denial-Buffy, not seeing things that are right in front of her nose.  Thank you for liking it!

Belle
08/14/2008 07:01 pm
Chapter 3         
Another great chapter! *sigh* I hate that Spike thinks he's got some flaw that makes him unlovable, if you ask me, someone like Spike is exactly what most girls are lookin' for! Not the killing urge (of course) but the devotion is a great step! :D It's waaaaay sweet that Buffy thinks Spike is worthy! I hated the way she acted in the canon version! She lived stuck in the past and couldn't move on from it! UGH!! But once again, great chapter! Can't wait for tomorrow!
I absolutely agree with you on everything!  And, let's face it, poor Spike's going to think there's something wrong with him after being rejected all the time.  I'm so glad you're liking this!  Thank you!

Sharon
08/14/2008 05:25 pm
Chapter 3         
Really good chapter of a great story. About time Buffy got a clue that she could help Spike. I do love your characterizations of them, thank you so much for sharing your story!
She's still being Denial-Buffy and doesn't see things that are right in front of her nose.  Thank you for thinking I'm getting the characterizations right!  I do love the two of them and would hate to get them wrong.

fangfaceandrea
08/14/2008 04:03 pm
Chapter 3         
yay great chapter! XD
I'm so glad you liked it!  Thank you!

08/14/2008 02:21 pm
Chapter 3         
Here I was thinking Buffy was being exceptionally intelligent and then she goes and spoils it by not realising how she could help Spike!  She came good though.    Sweet awkwardness.
I wanted to remind everyone that this is DenialBuffy - not seeing things right in front of her nose.  Thank you for liking it so far!

louise39
05/20/2009 02:48 am
Chapter 2         
"He had somehow become a partner. A partnership was something she had never experienced before, not even with Angel who would tell her about a problem, but never fight the fight with her."

Interesting developement.   Partners and a wanting a little more, I think.
Yup, awareness is starting too - I'm so glad you're liking it!  Thank you!

08/25/2008 08:17 pm
Chapter 2         
enjoying their growing closer. very good read, thank you.
I'm so glad you're liking it!

anon462
08/14/2008 04:09 am
Chapter 2         

Excellent!!! Very, Very Good!!!  :)

Loved the banter between Buffy and Spike. He is very open with her and she is very accepting, without anger flairing up between them. I wonder who will realize first that there is a walking blood bank available? Can't wait for more!!!

Oh, I'm so glad you like it!  'Evil' Spike doesn't care what he says and is proud of what he's done, so he's so much fun to write.  And Buffy's starting to see and understand him now.

08/14/2008 03:01 am
Chapter 2         
lovely chapter. this is a magnifcent story. i really like it. it has everything, spiek and buffy in character, brilliant interaction between the two, a foreign 'world' with an unusual problem, suspense and mystery, plus a pinch of attraction between sworn enemies! all so wonderfully composed in detail and realistic dialog... i am completely in love with this story. can't wait for tomorrow's update!
Oh, wow!  Thank you so much!  That's exactly what I was trying for!

GillB
08/13/2008 11:53 pm
Chapter 2         
There's one disadvantage and one advantage to this method of posting - the former is that we have to wait to savour the story and the latter that we have to wait to savour the story...

This is promising to be even better than your other postings, which is amazing when I consider how good they are.  I can see the way it's shaping, but can't wait to actually read how close my ideas are to yours.

I love the way Spike and Buffy are gradually seeing each other as more than just enemies and so glad that you've resisted throwing them together too quickly; many other authors would have had them tumbling into bed without consideration of things gone before.

Keep up the good work - I'll be back tomorrow for the next instalment 
Wow, thank you!  I try to make each story better than the one before.
Since Buffy and Spike were just trying to kill each other at UC Sunnydale as in canon, it really didn't seem right for them to just fall into bed.  For me, romance comes from seeing the person.  In canon, Spike sees Buffy and loves what he sees; Buffy, however, wouldn't allow herself to really see Spike until that very ambiguous moment when he burns.  That process of learning to see and its complications create the romance.  And here I get to try some worldbuilding as well and that's another fun learning experience!

ya_lublyu_tebya
08/13/2008 09:13 pm
Chapter 2         
Really interesting stuff. Where are you getting all the vocab from? Is it made up or from an actual language? Anyway, look forward to more.
Thank you for liking it!  The vocab is made up, but structured on a valid linguistic base so that it would have an internal logic.

Lizette
08/13/2008 08:28 pm
Chapter 2         
I'm so hooked, and sooo happy that u already have 11 chapters and I'll be getting a daily fix!! Spike is great, not all sappy and B is great when shes not being a total B.
Thank you!  I'm so glad you like it!  I never could figure out why they made Buffy that way.  I like a sensible Buffy and a strong Spike.

08/13/2008 08:02 pm
Chapter 2         

thanks for another excellent chapter.  I'm looking forward to the next!

 

Thank you for liking it!  The next will be up tomorrow.

08/13/2008 07:31 pm
Chapter 2         
THIS IS REALLY GOOD!  I WANT MORE, TOO BAD WE ALL HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL TOMORROW!!  THANKS!
Thank you so much for liking it!  I'm proofing them as fast as I can.

bRI
08/13/2008 06:20 pm
Chapter 2         
OH THIS IS AWESOME.  i HOPE YOU GET IT EDITED AND UP SOON
Oh, thank you!  The next chapter will be up tomorrow.  I'm just proofing it now.

08/13/2008 05:23 pm
Chapter 2         
All those words and I forgot a few LOL.

I also love the world you are painting....very visual.  Alien yet familiar it is easy to picture and accept as believable.  Very nicely done (Annne Mccaffrey has nothing on you!)

Kathleen
I love the world and culture building that science fiction and fantasy writers do - people like Barbara Hambly or Sheri Tepper.  I wanted to learn to do that and this is my attempt - to try to create a world that's different, but that people can recognize and relate to.  Thank you so much for saying it's believable!  That means I've succeeded!

08/13/2008 05:21 pm
Chapter 2         
Okay, you KNOW I'm the president of your fan club but this story is shaping up to be your crown kiddo.

This line reminded me of my father (born 1901) who lived this as well (and as he said went from reading about the Wright brothers while a school boy to watching them walk on the moon in his living room).
"From gas lamps to electricity and computers.”

This was the best summation of why these two were the PERFECT partnership in every way and made for each other.  You have completely nailed why Spike was the very best fit for her.
"It was the simplicity of his confidence in her, which was nothing like the Scoobies’ reliance upon her. The Scoobies laid all their problems on her and waited for her to tell them what to do or fix things for them. She was used to having to carry all the burdens. Spike, on the other hand, was sure she would figure things out, while at the same time planning on figuring it himself, and then, when one or the other of them found the solution, had every intention of helping her implement it. He had somehow become a partner. A partnership was something she had never experienced before, not even with Angel who would tell her about a problem, but never fight the fight with her."

"The Slayer is the weapon. Anything else is just an extension of yourself and can be discarded. You, the Slayer, are the weapon.
YES!  I love how he is giving her those lessons here even though he has maintained the desire to kill her once back in their own dimension.

The food problem for Spike has a solution with Buffy and my guess is she will offer in time of need.  I think she already knows deep inside she can trust him.  In fact that is one of the beauties of this story...they are being FORCED by circumstances to actually get to know one another.  Not vampire and Slayer but Spike and Buffy.  Can't help but find the grey there or forever alter ones perspective.
That is what the chip permitted and Spike at least took advantage of....this time Buffy will as well since there is no Greek chorus reminding her of the evil soulless nature of Spike.

Oh the UST!!!  And so the physical awareness begins to become conscious...first her noticing him sans shirt (almost) and now the deep looks and close contact.  Oh yes, what began subsonsciously in the Bronze years before is about to explode.

I think Spike is right about the enemy....if this thing causes burning then Spike is in special danger as they burn so quickly.  Love the insistance that Spike is there because they called Champions....Buffy needs to really think that one over and all its implications.

Excellent chapter of this wonderful fic.
Kathleen
-

08/13/2008 05:20 pm
Chapter 2         
Okay, you KNOW I'm the president of your fan club but this story is shaping up to be your crown kiddo.

This line reminded me of my father (born 1901) who lived this as well (and as he said went from reading about the Wright brothers while a school boy to watching them walk on the moon in his living room).
"From gas lamps to electricity and computers.”

This was the best summation of why these two were the PERFECT partnership in every way and made for each other.  You have completely nailed why Spike was the very best fit for her.
"It was the simplicity of his confidence in her, which was nothing like the Scoobies’ reliance upon her. The Scoobies laid all their problems on her and waited for her to tell them what to do or fix things for them. She was used to having to carry all the burdens. Spike, on the other hand, was sure she would figure things out, while at the same time planning on figuring it himself, and then, when one or the other of them found the solution, had every intention of helping her implement it. He had somehow become a partner. A partnership was something she had never experienced before, not even with Angel who would tell her about a problem, but never fight the fight with her."

"The Slayer is the weapon. Anything else is just an extension of yourself and can be discarded. You, the Slayer, are the weapon.
YES!  I love how he is giving her those lessons here even though he has maintained the desire to kill her once back in their own dimension.

The food problem for Spike has a solution with Buffy and my guess is she will offer in time of need.  I think she already knows deep inside she can trust him.  In fact that is one of the beauties of this story...they are being FORCED by circumstances to actually get to know one another.  Not vampire and Slayer but Spike and Buffy.  Can't help but find the grey there or forever alter ones perspective.
That is what the chip permitted and Spike at least took advantage of....this time Buffy will as well since there is no Greek chorus reminding her of the evil soulless nature of Spike.

Oh the UST!!!  And so the physical awareness begins to become conscious...first her noticing him sans shirt (almost) and now the deep looks and close contact.  Oh yes, what began subsonsciously in the Bronze years before is about to explode.

I think Spike is right about the enemy....if this thing causes burning then Spike is in special danger as they burn so quickly.  Love the insistance that Spike is there because they called Champions....Buffy needs to really think that one over and all its implications.

Excellent chapter of this wonderful fic.
Kathleen
Oh, wow, thank you, Kathleen!
My own father and grandfather made me aware of how much things have changed over only a hundred  short years.
No one was ever a better match for her than Spike and I wish Joss had accepted that in canon.
My guy's into martial arts and that 'You are the weapon' is a mantra with him.
In canon, Buffy always avoided really getting to know Spike. So here I wanted circumstances to force them to really talk and get to know each other and their own selves.  Which is why this story is going to be longer than usual, to explore that.
The UST is the fun part!
Neither Spike nor Buffy are aware of the Champion implication at this point in canon, but I hoped the reader would pick up the reference.  I'm so glad you noticed it.
Thank you so much for liking this story.  I always look forward to your reviews.  They're so helpful!  Thank you!

Belle
08/13/2008 03:40 pm
Chapter 2         
i love your stories! can't wait for the next installment!
Thank you!  I'll have the next one up tomorrow.

08/13/2008 03:13 pm
Chapter 2         
Love this adventure.  Great descriptions of the locations and culture and I like the Guard concept.  Looking forward to more.  Thanks!
Oh, thank you for liking it.  I've always been fascinated with the world and culture building aspect in science fiction and fantasy - I read tons of that - and I wanted to try it myself.  I'm so glad that you find it believable!  Thank you!

fangfaceandrea
08/13/2008 03:10 pm
Chapter 2         
Great chapter. And let me point out how relive I am that Buffy didn't jump to the immediate conclusion  that she should feed Spike herself. Feels realistic that way. I really like this Spike, and Buffy's very level headed . ::pets them both::
Oh, I'm so glad you think her reluctance is believable.  They're still enemies at this point since it's only been a day, and I didn't think that a Slayer would be so quick to give her blood to a vamp she would still think a danger.  I do like a sensible Buffy and so write her that way, and I adore Spike in any aspect of that multi-faceted personality.  Thank you so much for liking it!

cheryl
08/13/2008 01:03 pm
Chapter 2         
This story is really go so far - can't wait for the rest!
Oh, thank you!  I'll have the next chapter up tomorrow.  I'm just cleaning it up now.

08/13/2008 11:19 am
Chapter 2         
They've only been there a day and there's already a chink in the armour.  Very promising.  I'm enjoying your vivid descriptions, and 'the smell of napalm in the morning' - one of my favourite films.  Excellent chapter.
I always thought if Buffy had only allowed conversation in the show, things might have been different.  Even that tiny bit under the rugs in 'Dead Things' made her aware of him as a person.  Here they're really talking.
I couldn't resist that quote.  :D  That's one of my favourite films too.  I'm so glad you're enjoying this!

louise39
05/19/2009 12:18 am
Chapter 1         
<i>" But you’re special. Do you honest to God want to be normal?”</i>
Spike just battled Buffy and he knows she's something extra. 
I Like this other dimension.  It will give them time to...discuss their sitation. 
I'm so glad you like it!  Thank you!  I wanted to explore an evil Spike and how their interactions would go compared to Angel's in canon.

08/25/2008 07:59 pm
Chapter 1         
very good beginning to your tale. they have come along way already. than you for the fine read.
Just talking makes a difference.  They've never made the time before, just fought.  Thank you for liking it!

08/15/2008 10:29 pm
Chapter 1         
Wonderful start and great dialogue.
Thank you!  I'm so glad you're enjoying it!

Belle
08/13/2008 03:12 am
Chapter 1         
OMGosh!! Great start! Can't wait to read the next chapter!! YAY!
Thank you!  Next chapter coming right up.

Kate
08/13/2008 02:21 am
Chapter 1         

Fantastic first chapter!  I love how the whole thing played out and why Buffy & Spike make another truce.  Their exchange at the end was so hot.  I cannot wait for more!!

Oh, thank you so much!  I'm so glad you're liking it!  I'm proofing #2 right now and will have it up tomorrow.

08/13/2008 01:36 am
Chapter 1         
Nice bit of teasing: “He has spasms every now and then."

Very interesting take on gentlemanly behavior: "Me, I like ‘em willing. And someone whose livelihood depends on your smile or frown can’t be considered willing."

Oh my. So many relationship issues out in the open, already! And 10 glorious chapters to go.

Oh, I'm so glad you're liking this!  I've never done a long one before and it gives me the time to explore all those relationship issues.  Spike was brought up an English gentleman in the Victorian period and that's the way they thought, unlike the Irish of a century earlier who would have had no problems with Angel's lechery.

08/13/2008 12:41 am
Chapter 1         
Well, off to a rip-roaring start. One of my favorite themes is early season Spike and Buffy forced to depend on each other. I'll be looking forward to more.
Oh, thank you so much!  I love those too!  I'm just proofing #2 and it'll be up tomorrow.

All4Spike
08/13/2008 12:21 am
Chapter 1         
Intriguing start. Excellent characterisations. I love 'stranded together and have to co-operate and Spuffiness ensues' stories. I'll be waiting impatiently for the next chapter.....
I love those stories too.  I always thought if they really got to know each other, the Spuffiness would have to happen because they match so well.  I'm so glad you're liking it!

anon462
08/12/2008 11:39 pm
Chapter 1         

Fantastic first chapter!!!   You have me hooked, again. :)

Oh, thank you!  First chapters are so hard.  I'm so glad you liked it!

fangfaceandrea
08/12/2008 11:07 pm
Chapter 1         
oh this s Fun!  with the different dimension and Spike being all coarse and nonchalant but solemn too.

I ove how diret he was being right at the end throwing Buffy off . hehe

really enjoying this:D
I'm wanted to explore an unchipped Spike being flat-out evil and provoking.  I'm so glad you're enjoying it!  Thank you!

08/12/2008 07:54 pm
Chapter 1         
Great start and an interesting take on Spike and Buffy.  More soon please.
I wanted to see where things might go after that lovely fight on the show over the Gem, where they really meant to kill each other.  I'm so glad you're liking it!