ext_14267 ([identity profile] laughingacademy.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] crack_van2004-10-23 02:01 am

The “Corrupting Influence” series by Pythoness (PG-13)

Fandom: SHERLOCK HOLMES
Pairing: Holmes/Moriarty; references to Holmes/Watson
Author on LJ: unknown
Author Website: http://www.ravenland.com/index.html/index.htm
Why this must be read:

"Mr. Holmes, you are an unusual young man, and I think we may profit much from association. I proffer myself as your mentor, and would consider it an honor if you accept me." He extended his hand.

Of course it was quite clear what was being proposed. It was deeply gratifying to the Professor that the young man, without hesitation, took his hand in a hot grip and gave it one firm shake, though there was some unsteadiness in his voice when he spoke. "Thank you, Sir. The honor is, of course, all mine."

These are three chapters of an incomplete series which traces the relationship between Holmes and Moriarty over some twenty years. The first and third scenes are complete, while the second is a fragment, but each stands on its own, and together they trace a clear arc: attraction, rejection, contention.

Pythoness extrapolates from the details Conan Doyle gives us, and the results are spectacular. She does justice to the Professor; her version is brilliant, fascinating, and frightening, as he contemplates the seventeen-year-old Holmes.
Moriarty preferred his boys plump and pink and passive, and Holmes was none of these--but then Holmes was obviously no mere plaything, no pony to be ridden hard and traded for another just as good: this young man was a blood colt to be managed with care and a gentle hand, guided so that his own will was quietly subsumed, not challenged outright. In an open contest Moriarty would certainly win, but the prize would be lost--he must be molded, not broken.

Amazingly, she follows this chilling passage with a scorching first kiss.

In chronological order, they are this untitled scene, “Twenty Years Before,” and “The End Game.” However, if you want to read them in the order they were posted, you should work your way backward.

PS: The synopsis of The Valley of Fear has been added to the fandom overview. The section on film and TV adaptions is to follow ASAP.

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