Hmm, I'm not entirely sure. I agree that the fic changes a *lot* of the external context and a lot of the characterization either directly or as a side effect, in combinations that don't always work for me, but two things:
1) I'd have to re-read, but I don't remember the AU bond coming across to me as quite so over-the-top intense in that fic as in real life. They're close, but they don't feel like "possible scandal that never happened because of his orientation/their low sex drives." Furthermore, she seems to need him *much* less in this AU than irl, and much less than he needs her.
2) I'm not entirely convinced a protective older sibling in an abuse situation wouldn't lead to a close (but not quite as borderline-romantically intense) relationship, especially one that's slanted more toward him needing her than vice versa. I would say the younger abused child might latch onto whatever affection he could get. (I do think the "older, protective" part is key--AW is a different kettle of fish.) For a fictional example of this dynamic that really works for me: Boromir and Faramir.
But I will think about this next time I reread the fic. It's an interesting thought.
Re: Wilhelmine
1) I'd have to re-read, but I don't remember the AU bond coming across to me as quite so over-the-top intense in that fic as in real life. They're close, but they don't feel like "possible scandal that never happened because of his orientation/their low sex drives." Furthermore, she seems to need him *much* less in this AU than irl, and much less than he needs her.
2) I'm not entirely convinced a protective older sibling in an abuse situation wouldn't lead to a close (but not quite as borderline-romantically intense) relationship, especially one that's slanted more toward him needing her than vice versa. I would say the younger abused child might latch onto whatever affection he could get. (I do think the "older, protective" part is key--AW is a different kettle of fish.) For a fictional example of this dynamic that really works for me: Boromir and Faramir.
But I will think about this next time I reread the fic. It's an interesting thought.