The Interregnum confuses me a bit. Is Spike really going to hell, or is he metaphoring? And maybe I missed something, or you haven't said yet, but how exactly did Spike save Buffy from the illness in a previous chapter? I think it said he got the disease and that is how he died, but how did that save Buffy? And I'm also confused about how at the end of the chapter I described above, Buffy asked Spike to come back. He said 'I thought you'd never ask'. I got the impression he was going to return. Ugh, maybe you should give me a recap so I can get things straight. Anyways, I'm really enjoying the story, regardless.

Author's Response: Whew- ok let's see. First, the Interregnum is timelss, but everything you need to know is there. But, like talking to Dru, it's all mixed up. Because od what he did in "Prayers" , Spike no longer really has a soul. So in order to be eligible for the shanshu, he'll need some intervention from Joyce. (In the form of a *wish* maybe?;)) Now, as much as I love him, Spike can be a bit of a martyr. It is possible that, in an attempt to come up with a vaccine, he may have given himself the virus. Hope that clears things up a bit. Keep reading.

I'm feeling really bad for Spike right now. I'm a bit confused about something. Spike said he'll never have Joni and Buffy (i'm presuming he's referring to Angel taking his place and getting his family) but didn't Spike raise Joni until his death in 2027? I think i'll go reread chapter 23 "Marigolds" to boost my spirits. I'm keeping the faith for a happy ending. Great chapter.

Author's Response: Spike *does * raise Joni. He was refering to that pesky *prophesy* that Angel thought he had sown up. If it hadn't been for Joyce Angel would have it by default. Remember that the Interregnum is timeless so there is no linear progression. (It's kinda like talking to Dru. Everything's there, it's just all mixed up.)