ext_1675 ([identity profile] laceymcbain.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] crack_van2012-09-16 10:00 pm
Entry tags:

Natural Dreams by svilleficrecs (NC-17)

Fandom: INCEPTION
Pairing: Arthur/Eames
Length: 17,000 words
Author on LJ: [livejournal.com profile] svilleficrecs
Author Website: Fic list on LJ
Why this must be read: For some reason, I always think of this as the story where Arthur is "almost kidnapped." The "almost kidnapping" plays a central role in the story, and like any good author, svilleficrecs teases the reader along with hints and small portions of truth. What happens in the wake of the kidnapping-that-wasn't pushes Arthur and Eames to deal with who they are to one another. In a larger sense, the story is about Arthur and Eames, Dom and Mal. It's about the people they used to be, and the people they are now. It's also about how they see themselves and each other, and how that vision isn't always accurate.

Much of the story is Arthur and Eames talking to one another, bantering, sharing details and correcting assumptions. It's one of those stories where maybe not a lot happens in some ways, but the things they talk about are fundamental to understanding the characters. You could think of this as an extended character study, and I like how there's flirting and friendship, but also the ability to call one another on bullshit, as well as some genuine moments of learning about themselves and each other.

Plus, don't you really want to know what happened between Arthur and Eames on the night Arthur can't remember? The truth might surprise you.


For just a moment, the corner of Eames' mouth quirks up, but then he rubs at it and narrows his eyes at Arthur. "Someone tried to kidnap you."

"Who?"

"Presumably, the same person who drugged your drink. How much do you remember?"

"I..." Arthur rubs at his forehead, which is currently doing its best imitation of an ever tightening vice. "I'm gonna be," he covers his mouth and heaves.

"Wastebasket, nine o'clock," Eames says, crossing the room just in time to grab the thing and get it under Arthur's face.

Nothing much comes up, but Arthur keeps heaving until he can hardly breathe. When he finally spits the last of the bile, he realizes Eames' hand is curled around the back of his neck. "The team," he gasps.

Eames produces a bottle of water. It's tepid, and against his sour mouth it tastes sickeningly sweet, but it soothes the burn in his throat. "They're fine," Eames says.

"Somebody hit you." Arthur waves at Eames' face. "You saw them. Who was it?"

Eames grins. "You've got a hell of a right hook, love. Why don't you lie down for a moment."

"I think I'm gonna lie down," Arthur says.

"Marvelous idea."


In two parts on LJ: Natural Dreams - Part 1
Natural Dreams - Part 2

In one post on Dreamwidth: Natural Dreams

If you enjoy the story, remember to feedback the author!

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