I liked how the vermin one had a little twist;

Thanks, I liked that idea, too. When I first saw Becoming I couldn't figure out why he was eating rats instead of just going to a butcher. I thought it could be a money issue or he just wanted to degrade himself, but I like this explanation better.

it was that moment that sealed their fate

I totally think so. When he was sick and thought Willow was Buffy he told her he was wrong, and could never leave her. But when he got better his decision was not only made; he was also very cold about it.

Would you be willing to repost this in 12monthsofbtvs

Thanks for letting me know about it! I've never entered fic in a contest before, but it sounds like fun. I'll definitely look into it.