I guess the Original vote was from me? At least that's what ficwad is telling me now. Though I think I'd remember it if I read this fic before.
coughs Anyway. Yeah, I think this is pretty original. I personally haven't read many fics that deal with Torn's past before the Guard at least. And none of them took the approach you've taken. This is gritty and realistic which fits with the storyline of the game very well. It's the sort of background you wouldn't expect for Torn or Tess, but when you see it written out it just makes sense. Plus I've enjoyed the hell outta myself reading this.