One common theme is friendship. Spike often forms deep bonds with the original characters. Another theme is adventure, as they go on various quests together.
A less obvious but still present theme is the idea of belonging. The OCs, who are new to Spike's world, find their place within it. This can be through their relationships with Spike and other characters. They learn to fit in and contribute to the overall story and world - building.
Often, there's a theme of self - discovery. Both Spike and the OCs learn more about themselves through their interactions. For example, they might discover hidden strengths or weaknesses. And the theme of loyalty also shows up a lot, especially when they face difficulties or enemies.
One common theme is friendship. Spike and the OC often form a strong friendship that helps them face challenges. For example, they might team up against a common enemy.
Love and relationships are also prevalent. Whether it's a romantic relationship between Spike and the OC or a platonic bond that changes him, these relationships are often central to the story. For example, in some fanfics, the OC is the one who finally makes Spike believe in true love again.
One common theme is Spike's growth. Writers often explore how he matures from a young, sometimes clumsy dragon into a more confident and capable being. For example, in many stories, he overcomes his fear of failure.
Isolation can be a theme. Sometimes, when Spike is hurt, he might isolate himself, thinking he's a burden. And then there's the theme of self - discovery. Through the pain and hurt, he might discover new aspects of himself, like hidden strengths or weaknesses.
One common theme is the exploration of their unique relationship. Given their different natures, fanfictions often explore how they come to terms with each other. Another theme is power dynamics. Willow has her magic and Spike has his vampiric powers, and stories often play around with how these powers interact.
Well, discovery is also a common theme. It could be Twilight discovering something new about Spike, or vice versa. For example, in some fanfictions, Twilight discovers Spike's secret powers. Also, loyalty is often a theme. They show loyalty to each other in the face of danger or difficult decisions. In addition, the theme of growth is quite prevalent. Spike might grow in his abilities or Twilight in her understanding, all within the context of their relationship.
In Spike and Applejack fanfiction, a prevalent theme is cooperation. They work together on tasks like farming or solving local problems. The theme of respect is also there. Applejack respects Spike's eagerness to help, and Spike respects Applejack's wisdom. And family - like relationships are a common theme too. They act like family, with Spike sometimes being like a younger brother to Applejack, which is really endearing.
One common theme is the exploration of Spike's inner darkness. Writers often focus on his more sinister qualities and how they developed.
Well, the theme of forbidden love is quite common. Given their different natures (Buffy being a slayer and Spike being a vampire), their relationship is often seen as something that shouldn't be. Another theme is the power dynamic. Buffy is strong and powerful as a slayer, and Spike has his own vampiric powers. How these powers interact and how they balance their relationship around it is a recurring theme. And, of course, there's the theme of sacrifice. They are both characters who are willing to sacrifice for the greater good or for each other in many fanfictions.
Love and relationships are also common. Spike has had various relationships, and fanfictions often explore his romantic entanglements further, whether it's with Buffy or other characters.