The Integrity Affair by Solo's Girl (G)

[carabele.livejournal.com]

Fandom: THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E.
Pairing: None
Length: approx. 5,400 words
Author on LJ: nicki_solo
Author Website: MFU Archive
Why this must be read: Every member of U.N.C.L.E. knows Mr. Waverly is a wily old fox. But his insights are to be respected because they so seldom prove wrong. So what if he insists the man you call partner and know as your best friend is a mole in the organization and sets you the task of investigating that man to provide necessary data to back up the determination?

The author deftly shows each guy efficiently doing the job he is ordered to do, while equally showcasing each man's own discomfort and very definite reservations regarding the task. Yet why is Waverly questioning the loyalty of either man at all? In their unwanted and individually secret quests, what does each man find about the other and what insight do they both gain into the managerial methods of Mr. Waverly?

Illya stepped out the door. He stopped when he saw Napoleon. The Russian brushed his hand thru his blond hair and came up the steps to sidewalk level. For a moment neither of them said anything. Solo looked up the sidewalk.

"Any plans for this evening?" he asked, trying not to look at his friend.

"Not really. How about you?" Kuryakin asked.

"I think I need a drink," Napoleon said, "That's as good a place as any to start. Want to join me?"

Illya just nodded. They took off to the nearest bar.

The two agents sat in a corner booth. They had their drinks but neither of them was really that thirsty. It was almost twenty minutes before anyone said anything. Napoleon cleared his throat. Illya looked at him.

"Can I ask you a blunt question?" Napoleon said.

"Sure."

"Have you ever, well, questioned Waverly's judgment?"

"A couple of times," the Russian said finally taking a drink, "Not to his face of course. That would be a breach of protocol. You never question your boss. You simply follow his orders. Regardless." He took another drink.

Solo nodded. Spoken like a true U.N.C.L.E. agent.

"How about you?" Illya asked.

"A few times," Napoleon said, "Once to his face." Solo downed his drink in one swallow.

The Integrity Affair