Fic Rec: In Silence We Take Flight

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Title: In Silence We Take Flight
Author: Aiisling
Pairing: Sherlock/John
Length: 13,627
Rating: Teen
Warnings: Major Character Death (canonical)
Verse: Sherlock BBC
Author's summary: Sherlock jumps, and from the moment his body hits the pavement, John Watson does not say a word. There is a way to bring Sherlock back from the dead, if John is strong enough-and Moriarty doesn't beat him to it.

A Sherlock fusion fic with Hans Christian Andersen's "Wild Swans."

Reccer's comments: A fairy tale AU for a series set in 21st-century London? Yes! References in Sherlock to the stories collected by the Brothers Grimm and the epic quality of the characters have inspired several authors to set Sherlock in the dark, compelling world of fairy tales. Aiisling has produced a superb example, with a haunting, bittersweet atmosphere, varied pacing, and memorable characters.

John is the primary focus. Unspeaking, grief-stricken, and brave, he is determined to sacrifice what he must to bring Sherlock back to life:
( Excerpt One... )

Mrs. Hudson is also beautifully wrought; she has sharp edges and a strength that makes her more than a one-dimensional motherly figure:
( Excerpt Two... )

As in many a fairy story, what is desired is only won at great personal cost. Nothing will be the same, even if the enchantment is broken. But that does not mean Aiisling's work features unrelieved misery. There is always light in the darkness; a small, fragile candle kept lit by many hands.