Fic Rec: Restoration

[pipmer1]

Title: Restoration
Author: Chryse
Pairing: Sherlock/John, Sherlock/OMCs
Length: 50,000 words
Rating: Explicit
Verse: Sherlock BBC

Author's summary: “It won’t ever be the same as it was.”
“Of course it won’t be the same. But it might be even better.”

Reccer's comments: This is a fantastic Series 4 fix-it. Anyone who is familiar with Chryse knows to expect quality storytelling and emotional resonance. This is no exception.

The story picks up right after the events of Sherrinford, but before the ending montage. Sherlock, of course, has just lost his home and has learned that his childhood memories are false. On top of struggling to deal with all of his recent (and decades-long) losses, Sherlock also finds himself adrift and unmoored from his sense of self. He no longer knows what is true or false, or what he can trust to be real. So he embarks on a journey of self-discovery. After going through painful therapy to recover lost memories, he then begins the process of letting go of the past and finding a way forward. And he does this by going on a global walkabout.

He doesn't stay away for long, but he makes good use of his time. Discovering who he is, what he likes, and what he wants, including an awareness and exploration of his nascent sexuality. A delightful OC is introduced who helps him on this quest, and who asks for help of a different nature in return.

And never fear. John is a stalwart and supportive presence throughout. He isn't always physically present (he doesn't accompany Sherlock on his walkabout), but he's always on the edge of Sherlock's awareness, and ours. This is the John that comes through for Sherlock in the end, because he never really left. So be aware that, even though the pairing tag includes Sherlock with several OC's, it's only in the service of letting Sherlock find his way - and that way is back to John.

Comments

[haikitteh]

I've had this one on my kindle since it was completed. Thank you for this lovely rec, it's inspired me to open & read it.

[donut_donut]

I just wanted to add that this story is especially lovely if you're searching for Mary-positive fics. Mary is dead here, and only mentioned briefly, but it's clear that both men have mourned her deeply and sincerely.

[ficklepig]

I wondered who would get to do this rec! :D

Hoorah^3 for Chryse. This was a very therapeutic story in many ways.