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Post by Rob on Feb 15, 2004 0:22:14 GMT -5
Another great chapter Rob! I had to rush off and read it as soon as I knew it had been posted. You never fail to deliver. Can't wait until the next installment. Don't leave it too long - I want to know what happens next! Cal Eventually I'll get myself motivated and get Chapter 19 under way...I hope you like what's coming.
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Post by Rob on Feb 15, 2004 0:43:23 GMT -5
Nice writing job, again Rob. I again find myself gravitating mostly toward the F/X thing, and wanting to know what will happen there. That last bit between them sounded so nasty and hurtful - youch. It WAS kinda ugly, wasn't it? I didn't expect people to enjoy the last part of this chapter. Honestly, I didn't really WANT them fo feel that way; if people are bothered by it, that means I've done my job. People genuinely care about Xander and Faith staying together. Another factor that might make this segment uncomfortable for some is the viewpoint. I don't claim to speak for everyone...but in my experience, we tend to treat those we love rather poorly while under extreme stress...mainly because we don't have to put up any kind of front with those who truly know us. Rarely do we show our true faces to the general public. Faith has always made it a habit to outwardly show indifference while the emotions churn inside her. There are dark regions in everyone's heart; Faith's backstory (as I have written it) doesn't just create regions, it could form entire continents. This opening up stuff is rather new to her, and when she feels emotionally cornered, she instinctively lashes out - sometimes at the worst possible moment in the worst possible way. Such were the last couple of paragraphs of Chapter 18. Thing is, who among us has never done that? Who hasn't "taken something out" on people we love, even though whatever is bothering us isn't their fault whatsoever? I sure have. It's part of being human, I think. When Faith devoted that deeply-scarred heart to Xander, every side of her came with that package...just as Xander's raging insecurities will always echo within him. The real question being asked here is the same one that applies in any relationship: is it worth taking the good with the bad? Can real love last, exposed warts and all? In this story, every couple is experiencing a different form of that fundamental challenge, with different levels of success. While Spike and Buffy have difficult moments in "Trust," I've intentionally resolved them much more efficiently. Why? Because they've been together the longest. They're a little closer to finding that balance. This isn't to say their issues are resolved...but in "Triangles," Buffy had something of an epiphany regarding Spike, and it would be stupid to ignore that progress here. Ok, there's a lot more I could say on this topic. On the other hand, I could have written half a chapter in the amount of time I took putting this post together...so I'll shut up now. As always, thanks to everyone for reading.
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Post by SpringSummers on Feb 15, 2004 9:43:41 GMT -5
It WAS kinda ugly, wasn't it? I didn't expect people to enjoy the last part of this chapter. Honestly, I didn't really WANT them fo feel that way; if people are bothered by it, that means I've done my job. People genuinely care about Xander and Faith staying together. Another factor that might make this segment uncomfortable for some is the viewpoint. I don't claim to speak for everyone...but in my experience, we tend to treat those we love rather poorly while under extreme stress...mainly because we don't have to put up any kind of front with those who truly know us. Rarely do we show our true faces to the general public. Faith has always made it a habit to outwardly show indifference while the emotions churn inside her. There are dark regions in everyone's heart; Faith's backstory (as I have written it) doesn't just create regions, it could form entire continents. This opening up stuff is rather new to her, and when she feels emotionally cornered, she instinctively lashes out - sometimes at the worst possible moment in the worst possible way. Such were the last couple of paragraphs of Chapter 18. Thing is, who among us has never done that? Who hasn't "taken something out" on people we love, even though whatever is bothering us isn't their fault whatsoever? I sure have. It's part of being human, I think. When Faith devoted that deeply-scarred heart to Xander, every side of her came with that package...just as Xander's raging insecurities will always echo within him. The real question being asked here is the same one that applies in any relationship: is it worth taking the good with the bad? Can real love last, exposed warts and all? In this story, every couple is experiencing a different form of that fundamental challenge, with different levels of success. While Spike and Buffy have difficult moments in "Trust," I've intentionally resolved them much more efficiently. Why? Because they've been together the longest. They're a little closer to finding that balance. This isn't to say their issues are resolved...but in "Triangles," Buffy had something of an epiphany regarding Spike, and it would be stupid to ignore that progress here. Ok, there's a lot more I could say on this topic. On the other hand, I could have written half a chapter in the amount of time I took putting this post together...so I'll shut up now. As always, thanks to everyone for reading. Yes, yes, yes - I wouldn't have things going any other way. If I was interested in fiction that glossed over reality and romanticized all the relationships, etc, I wouldn't be Spike-fan. I much prefer it straight-up and realistic. You are portraying Faith and Xander under-stress in a very believable way - and I don't mind the "youch." I'd rather have the youch than some kind of false glow. Good stuff, Rob.
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Post by Kerrie on Feb 15, 2004 16:34:09 GMT -5
Yes, yes, yes - I wouldn't have things going any other way. If I was interested in fiction that glossed over reality and romanticized all the relationships, etc, I wouldn't be Spike-fan. I much prefer it straight-up and realistic. You are portraying Faith and Xander under-stress in a very believable way - and I don't mind the "youch." I'd rather have the youch than some kind of false glow. Good stuff, Rob. Ditto for me. It gives me something to think about. I am looking forward to reading your solution to the problem.
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Post by S'ewing S'cubie on Feb 17, 2004 16:50:05 GMT -5
Your portrayal of Faith and Xander rings true on both fronts, the characters and the effects of a long-term, committed relationship. These are both scared, insecure people tring VERY hard to trust each other and messing up on a regular basis. This is also a big Guy thing for Xander that his wife was stronger, faster and a better fighter than he from the beginning. Only now his body is betraying him and the disparity is even greater. The question here is, can he deal?
Faith also has, if anything, bigger and badder insecurities than Xander and now he's going to get her sordid past rubbed in his face just when he needs reassurance. And Faith has neither the education nor the insight she will need to help him deal--or even to deal herself.
I sure hope they get help.
Diane *that ought to answer your question about whether I care about the characters.*
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Post by Rob on Feb 18, 2004 0:52:40 GMT -5
I sure hope they get help. Diane *that ought to answer your question about whether I care about the characters.* That it does. Thank you very much for responding.
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Post by Queen E on Feb 18, 2004 13:04:28 GMT -5
That it does. Thank you very much for responding. So when do we get the next chapter? No pressure, except in a pressure-y kinda way.
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Post by Rob on Feb 19, 2004 1:35:47 GMT -5
So when do we get the next chapter? No pressure, except in a pressure-y kinda way. I'll try to have one soon. Sorry, guys...I haven't been feeling very well. Seems to be getting slightly better, however. Once I can look at the computer screen for longer than 10 minutes without my clogged sinuses throbbing like a jackhammer, I'll be back to writing.
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Post by Queen E on Feb 19, 2004 11:56:52 GMT -5
I'll try to have one soon. Sorry, guys...I haven't been feeling very well. Seems to be getting slightly better, however. Once I can look at the computer screen for longer than 10 minutes without my clogged sinuses throbbing like a jackhammer, I'll be back to writing. I know the pain of the clogged sinuses, so please, take your time. I went through the same thing on Saturday. If you want some over-the-counter recommendations, I've had a lot of luck with Advil Cold and Sinus. Just don't take it on an empty stomach, cause then you vomit when people call you to tell you Angel's been cancelled. Of course, that could have been unrelated.
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Post by Nickim on Feb 19, 2004 14:32:23 GMT -5
It WAS kinda ugly, wasn't it? I didn't expect people to enjoy the last part of this chapter. Honestly, I didn't really WANT them fo feel that way; if people are bothered by it, that means I've done my job. People genuinely care about Xander and Faith staying together. Another factor that might make this segment uncomfortable for some is the viewpoint. I don't claim to speak for everyone...but in my experience, we tend to treat those we love rather poorly while under extreme stress...mainly because we don't have to put up any kind of front with those who truly know us. Rarely do we show our true faces to the general public. Faith has always made it a habit to outwardly show indifference while the emotions churn inside her. There are dark regions in everyone's heart; Faith's backstory (as I have written it) doesn't just create regions, it could form entire continents. This opening up stuff is rather new to her, and when she feels emotionally cornered, she instinctively lashes out - sometimes at the worst possible moment in the worst possible way. Such were the last couple of paragraphs of Chapter 18. Thing is, who among us has never done that? Who hasn't "taken something out" on people we love, even though whatever is bothering us isn't their fault whatsoever? I sure have. It's part of being human, I think. When Faith devoted that deeply-scarred heart to Xander, every side of her came with that package...just as Xander's raging insecurities will always echo within him. The real question being asked here is the same one that applies in any relationship: is it worth taking the good with the bad? Can real love last, exposed warts and all? In this story, every couple is experiencing a different form of that fundamental challenge, with different levels of success. While Spike and Buffy have difficult moments in "Trust," I've intentionally resolved them much more efficiently. Why? Because they've been together the longest. They're a little closer to finding that balance. This isn't to say their issues are resolved...but in "Triangles," Buffy had something of an epiphany regarding Spike, and it would be stupid to ignore that progress here. Ok, there's a lot more I could say on this topic. On the other hand, I could have written half a chapter in the amount of time I took putting this post together...so I'll shut up now. As always, thanks to everyone for reading. You are so right about how we treat family worse than strangers, it's sad. Hope you're feeling better soon, and not Just because I want a new chapter.
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Post by Cal on Feb 25, 2004 18:56:53 GMT -5
Rob, what can I say? Yet again, you have delivered. It gets more and more intriguing with every chapter. Loved the Riley and Xander interaction. And what was that at the end? I can't wait to find out.
You really bring these characters to life, Rob. The Buffyverse will always be alive, with people like you and Nan around. Thank you!
Cal
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Post by Cal on Mar 3, 2004 17:46:56 GMT -5
That was quick, Rob. Well done!
Another great chapter. This story is drawing me in deeper and deeper with each new chapter. I can't tell you how interesting and intriguing I am finding it.
Looking forward to the next chapter.
Cal
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Post by Rob on Mar 3, 2004 23:18:53 GMT -5
That was quick, Rob. Well done! Another great chapter. This story is drawing me in deeper and deeper with each new chapter. I can't tell you how interesting and intriguing I am finding it. Looking forward to the next chapter. Cal Thanks. I'm working on Chapter 21 as we speak.
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Post by Patti - S'cubie Cutie on Mar 5, 2004 17:48:33 GMT -5
Better late than never right? Not your chapters Rob, my "well done." Despite some initial um....discussion with you..I really like the beginning of Chapter 20 now. And its all good, but what I really loved of course was the end.
Can't wait to see what he's going to tell Willow and Buffy and Xander. (Was going to call him 'the other one' but they aren't the evil trio.)
Are they Rob? *willow resolve face*
;D ;D
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Post by SpringSummers on Mar 5, 2004 21:37:04 GMT -5
Better late than never right? Not your chapters Rob, my "well done." Despite some initial um....discussion with you..I really like the beginning of Chapter 20 now. And its all good, but what I really loved of course was the end. Can't wait to see what he's going to tell Willow and Buffy and Xander. (Was going to call him 'the other one' but they aren't the evil trio.) Are they Rob? *willow resolve face* ;D ;D Ditto on the ending, Rob. You are really juggling a lot here, brave boy.
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