Despite the hate at seeing Buffy like this (Given a choice, I prefer shiny, happy Buffy) this is really good. And the Spike characterization seems pretty on. I'm hoping that as things fall out later, that Riley found out about Buffy's 're-programing,' for lack of better word, and pulled strings in order to steer her toward Spike with the deliberate hope that he would be able to bring her back to what she once was.

I do have one particular crit, however you haven't specify that constructive comment are welcome, and thus I shall not share unless you ask me to.

That said, I look forward to the future installments! :) Great banner work too, by the way.