Sorry to take so long to get back with you, Mystery Author. I'm going on day four of migraine and wasn't really able to read this earlier, much less come up with a coherent response.
First of all, I just have to say I'm glad someone even attempted to tackle Snape with Trelawney, so I appreciate this fic on that score alone. :) I can't give a particularly eloquent response so I'll settle for pointing out what I liked:
- the positive nod to Eileen--thanks! - how you portrayed Severus as having to intuit a lot, rather than being told anything helpful by Dumbledore. I never did like or trust AD, something DH validated. - how Snape sees Trelawney from the beginning--as someone in similar circumstances--as well as how much he learned from past mistreatment - a glimpse into the way AD surely (it's obvious in retrospect) must have treated first time teacher Trelawney - the little exchange between Lucius & Snape, revealing so much of their relationship -that she takes on the older-woman teaching younger man role -- delightful! Especially this bit: It had occurred to him, as his blood cooled somewhat with the walk and the climb, that it was probably a good thing that there should be something Sybill could teach him, and that she should know it. Observing his parents, he had decided long ago that women needed to be able to control some things – certainly their own bodies, their own magic – rather than being controlled in everything. Or broken, if control wasn't possible. In the aftermath of Lily and witnessing his own parents--yes. Yes, this is Severus at heart. If he was as obsessive and nasty a person as some believe, he would have used a potion to ensnare Lily or redirect (if not kill) James. He was a Death Eater, after all. Wouldn't a true DE take what he wanted if he had the means?
- This line, also: It pleased him that she was dressed for warmth and comfort, not to seduce. He would rather be the object of an impulse than a campaign. Yes. *applause* - I like that in the aftermath of the Potters' deaths, you have Severus putting all his hope in Dumbledore destroying Voldemort--that he completely discounted how AD interpreted the prophecy to mean Harry was the only one who could off Riddle. This provides a nice explanation for his complete loyalty to AD, especially given the fact he has every reason to distrust and even resent AD. - I like the thought that Sybill's impromptu readings after she's taken to hitting the sherry are related to her testing herself and her own abilities, seeing if she still "has it." - I'd have liked more (& more explicit shipping!), but I do like how you left it.
I also like his relationship with her as one possible reason for Snape the Headmaster--as can be extrapolated from Deathly Hallows--managing to keep Trelawney under his protection that last year amidst the presence of their mutual enemy.
So, lots of food for thought, a rather sweet first time and a glimpse of the inner workings of underappreciated characters = win. :) Thank you!