Spike was stronger (a better person) then all the others; stepping in to save Xander of all people because he wants to save Willow (and Dawn, and Buffy).
If Xander really will kill himself then it will take the guilt of all the others having to kill him (including thinking bad about Angel if he was the one killing Xander).
Looking forward to find out if Xander is about to die or not. He can only be killed once. (Judged by the court for killing his parents by example. But then he wouldn't have to suffer and that's what the others wanted.)

Sounds like oooooo and Stev52 need to chat ... LOL

As for Xander, wouldn't it be something if that gun is empty.

I love how it was beyond Willow's understanding that Spike, evil, souless Spike could have it within him to sacrifice himself for his enemy in order to save those he loved. Willow, a scooby, who was the soul, when they called upon the essence of the slayer to defeat Adam, couldn't even begin to embrace that kind of selflessness.

In any event, as long as Spike is safe, I think I will be happy with the result of this fic. I'm glad that Buffy has at least to some extent acknowledged, if only to herself, what she has always taken for granted as far as Spike is concerned. Hopefully that will be the first step toward a healthy relationship for them. Sure, she made mistakes - they all did - and although there may be forgiveness for those mistakes, the consequences still have to be faced. Xander may or may not survive, Willow has once again embraced dark magic and has to live with trying to kill her best friend, Buffy's relationship with Dawn is a bit fractured as is her relationship with Spike. It will be some time before she and Spike overcome everything that has come between them, especially considering they had barely overcome the hardships of their violent past to begin with.

At least Spike's not dust ...

Yikes! Never knew Xander and Willow could make Dru look sane! Very intense chapter~ Thank you for the great update.

This story is marvelous. This chapter was very powerful and moving. So sad at the end.

so knew at the end he was going to kill himself. do I sense a final ending coming soon? I hope not - love the story to much. lol. how many more chapters are you expecting?

I don't find that Spike was made too saintlike. It's been proven in canon that he goes to lengths to protect people he cares for, and he's also realized his power over Xander. Not to mention that this is a fic, and that his ordeal might have caused some changes in how much he thinks before he acts...him egging Willow on seems a bit out of line with this version of his character, imo XD;

Very interesting to watch Xander's progression, it's a really moving story...I can't wait to see how things are resolved, keep up the great job!

OK so that's a good ending for Xander. But still the heroic thing that Spike did was unbelievable and too noble for a vampire. Just when did Spike become a saint?

Thank you Spike,

Sorry to see Xander kill himself, I hope Willow doesn't go off the deep end.

I think she needs her powers stripped.

Omg, Xander went so insane. But I can't feel any sadness if he dies, as he hurt Spike.

OOOOOH MY GOD!
This chapter was just amazing!
AMAAAAAAZING!
Can´t wait to read the next chapter!
MOa from Germany

Wow! More soon Please!

Wow. Xander really lost his marbles.

I hope that Buffy has to earn back Spike trust. He better not let it easy for her.

Please update soon. good chapter.