Two Masters by Emily Veinglory (G)

[lyrebird.livejournal.com]

Fandom: MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E.
Pairing: Napoleon Solo/Illya Kuryakin
Author on LJ: not that I know of
Author Website: Veinglory's Slashphile

Why this must be read:

Illya is an UNCLE agent, but he still has strong ties to the Soviet Union. KGB agents closely watch him for any signs of 'attachment' to his new employer. When he and Napoleon make love one night, Illya finds the cost of juggling his conflicting loyalties may be higher than he can bear.

This is a lovely first person Illya story that does a brilliant job in depicting the difficulties of being a foreigner in a strange land. There is no use of Russian language; Illya's alien perspective shines in his dry observations of the US and Napoleon, and in the interesting use of "Old World" language and syntax.

And don't be fooled by the rating. Relationships form the emotional core of this story.

Two Masters