Ultimately when I started Crimson Regret it was intended to take Xander to the edge of suicide. Faith would be watching from the side, trying to stop it but ultimately not being able to connect with him enough because she can't find the way in. The reasoning behind that are not down to Xander's depression or Faith's lack of social skills when it comes to friendship - rather there is a 'big bad' who is controlling everyone's perceptions. If you are absolutely sure you want to know who that person is, I'll put it in white text next so if you use the mouse to select it you can see why.*start spoiler*  Dawn is the one controlling thoughts and perceptions, she's the one who provided the mislead that sent Xander into the fire to stop Willow, and she's the one telling Xander that Faith's injuries are far worse than they actually are. The last chapter that was posted is going to be mirrored from Faith's POV, but it's Willow talking to her. Basically at this point, Xander and Faith are going to be on opposite sides - Xander thinks Willow has gone evil again and only trusts Dawn; Faith doesn't trust Dawn and is only able to talk to Willow right now. *end spoiler*

Willow's characterisation in this story has always been the hardest thing for me. The choices I've made with her have so far paid off I think, she is trying to see everyone else's point of view and be there for those she loves, but she's just had the most amazing magical experience of her life and everything has changed. She's got to be feeling pretty damn powerful - almost god-like - and is finding it hard to connect now.