Hmmm. Not sure what I think of this story. It's definetly AU, that's for sure. I do like the name you gave the basilisk. It's very unique, ancient, much like the basilisk herself. I don't know if I pity or sympathize with Tom at all, but I do understand his POV. Very intriguing.
Author's response
It wasn't actually meant to be AU when it was written as it's an older piece originally put out before book six, but these days, I suppose it is. Thanks for the rest, it does mean a lot, even after all this time.