Harry's condition is truly terrifying. You perfectly captured the feeling of slow suffocation and how the body fights it, as well as what's even more horrifying: the awareness. Harry knowing he was dying even as he fights for life, knowing that this may be the last time. For me, that set the emotional tone for the entire story - it felt like life or death, and the sacrifices are real.
Snape's profession is fascinating. I love that he's built himself a life where he can work a few hours a week and keep the rest of his time for himself. His sacrifice feels real, knowing he'll lose all of that if he wants to save Harry.
And the magic!! *shivers in delight* So amazing! It's so complex, yet it all makes sense. The curse itself is one of the most evil things I've ever seen, how it hides, how it fights back, how it tears Harry apart.
But most of all, it's the little touches, the bits of the personal storyteller, that I love the most. A Ministry that regulates spell-craftres. The way you foreshadow Harry's situation through the fraud case he's investigating. The unexpected sympathy Harry feels for Slughorn. The first argument between Harry and Janus. Janus ordering Harry to masturbate. The way the diagnostic spells are grid-like, while the healing spells look like abstract art. The spell ball tasting acid and sweet. Ron's 'tiger'. Snape's purple robes with silver buttons. Prick-drip (which made me spew my coffee, thank you very much!). Perfect touches that make the story come alive.
Thank you so much, sweetheart. What a lovely gift! ♥♥♥