Sometimes a Cigar... by Nataliya (PG-ish)

[vysila.livejournal.com]

Fandom: MAN FROM UNCLE
Pairing: Napoleon/Illya
Length: ~3,100 words, one-shot
Author on LJ: cousinnat
Author Website: Not that I know of, but her stories can be found on The Chrome and Gunmetal Madhouse and at File 40
Why this must be read:

Any MFU fan will tell you that things are really bad when non-introspective Illya, the man who shrugs his shoulders and says "things are what they are", is troubled enough by nightmares to seek out a psychiatrist's advice

This story is a wonderfully revealing, character-driven gem of Freudian sleuthing. Contrary to the sexual innuendo of the title, "Sometimes A Cigar..." isn't about sex, but about everything else that makes life worth living – namely, other people and how we feel about them.

Nataliya has a marvelous ear for dialogue, and her Illya sounds as if he could've stepped right out of an episode. And even if Napoleon only makes a cameo appearance – well, he's certainly at the heart of the story.

Sometimes A Cigar…

I hope you enjoy this story as much as I do.

Comments

[gilda-elise.livejournal.com]

I did! Yes, I would have preferred more Napoleon but, as you say, he's certainly "there." Thanks for reccing the story.

[vysila.livejournal.com]

I'm glad you enjoyed the story. It really is more of an Illya character piece, but do think Nataliya did a good job of showing just how lovable Napoleon is, and how much he means to Illya.