My goodness, mystery author! For me? *bounces* You know, this posted just in time for me to read it over my lunch (thank you BethBethBeth)!
First: and it was the perfect pace. I loved the relationship between Lucius and Abraxas. It felt very real. That push and pull, the banter and snark, all with underpinnings of obvious love and care. Well done!
Than there was Poppy's cameo appearance, which was beautifully placed. And you managed to answer one of my burning questions about the werewolf incident. I never could figure out why Poppy wouldn't have reported it. *smacks Dumbledore*
Your young!Severus was well written, too. You showed him walking the line between the frighteningly capable man he's to become while showing us that he's still a vulnerable boy. I have high hopes that Abraxas will raise him right. *g*
The light touches of romance were all, well, just right! I dunno if I would have enjoyed full on sex in this context, and a slow seduction would be more of Abraxas' style anyway, so that was a good choice! And of course Severus agreed. He's no fool, and what Abraxas was offering was a chance out of his dismal life - naturally he'd take it.
Also? The inclusion of all the politics of the day formed a perfect backdrop to this piece as well. I really liked that Abraxas had doubts about introducing Severus to Voldemort, it does say to me that Abraxas wasn't just a blind follower (and prolly cared for Severus).
I giggled so hard when Severus mentioned being glad that Lucius had explained his preferences! Abraxas should put his foot up Lucius' bum for skipping that critical detail, though it stuck me as very likely the way it could have happened given Slytherins in general and Malfoys in particular. *g*
So, in conclusion, nice job, mystery author! Thanks so much for the fabulous gift! I really enjoyed it! ♥