Well, one reason is that it allows fans to imagine alternative universes. By killing off Buffy, they can create scenarios where the rules of the Buffyverse are changed. For example, how the balance between good and evil shifts. Also, it can be a way to explore darker themes and emotions. Grief, despair, and the struggle to move on are all things that can be delved into deeply in these fanfics. Moreover, it gives a chance to develop secondary characters more fully as they step into new roles in Buffy's absence.
The existence of 'Buffy Dies' fanfics is due to the fact that it shakes up the established narrative. It makes readers wonder 'what if'. What if Buffy wasn't there to save the day? How would the story unfold? Fanfic writers take this opportunity to tell their own versions of the story. It also helps to explore the mortality of the characters in a more in - depth way. Buffy was seen as a powerful and almost invincible character in the show, so her death in a fanfic can be a way to show that no one is truly safe, and that death can have far - reaching consequences for the whole story world.
One popular 'Buffy Dies' fanfic is 'The Aftermath'. It explores how the Scooby Gang copes with her loss in a very emotional way. Another could be 'A World Without Buffy' which delves into the power vacuum her death creates in Sunnydale. There's also 'Remembering Buffy' that focuses on the memories of the characters and how they are haunted by her absence.
They are popular because they evoke strong emotions. Fans are very attached to Castiel, and seeing his death in fanfics makes them feel a range of emotions like sadness, anger, and sometimes even hope if there are elements of resurrection.
Some people write such fanfics because they want to explore the darker sides of the characters. Buffy and Spike have complex personalities, and seeing them as evil allows for a different kind of character study.
There could be. The 'Buffy' fandom is quite large and diverse. Writers might create stories where Giles has to deal with the idea of beer being bad, perhaps in a context where he's guiding Buffy and the gang away from certain vices. You might have to dig a bit, but fanfic platforms like Fanfiction.net or Archive of Our Own would be good places to start your search.
Yes, there are quite a few. You can find them on popular fanfic websites like Archive of Our Own. Some of them blend the two universes really well, like having Buffy and the Scooby Gang team up with the Winchester brothers to fight a common supernatural threat.
In many fanfics, Buffy is often torn between Angelus' dangerous allure and Riley's more stable presence. For example, in some stories, Angelus might try to lure Buffy back into his world of darkness, while Riley is trying to keep her grounded. Their interactions can be full of tension, like in a fic where Riley discovers Buffy's lingering feelings for Angelus and it causes a huge rift between them.
One good one might be 'Buffy's Unusual Growth' which explores the concept in an interesting way within the Buffy universe. It has unique plot twists and character interactions.
Well, 'The Unspoken Love of Buffy and Spike' is another great one. It focuses on the unsaid feelings between them. The writer uses a lot of subtext and small moments from the show to build up a slow - burning love story that keeps readers engaged.
One common theme could be a role - reversal in their relationship dynamic. Instead of Spike being the more 'evil' or morally ambiguous one, Buffy takes on that role. Another theme might be how Spike reacts to this new, evil Buffy. It could be about his struggle between his love for her and his sense of right and wrong.
You could also check out fan - made graphic novels or comics that are inspired by Buffy and Xander's relationship. These are more likely to be free from adult - themed content and can offer unique interpretations of their bond, be it as friends, comrades in the fight against evil, or more complex emotional relationships within the context of the Buffyverse.