Absolutely LOVED this story. Wonderful ! ! It was like watching an episode of the show. As I read I was able to hear the voices. Thank you ! !

This was probably the best UNCLE story I've read in years. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, completely absorbed. Old fashioned hurt/comfort is hard to find now days and done right, even rarer. Napoleon, even under extreme duress, retains that jaunty savoir faire attitude and gritty defiance in the solid belief that Illya will find him. Illya remains the ice man, coldly practical and placing mission before partner but in a way we the reader can see his pain and mounting worry. At no time though, does he stop thinking. (Loved the fake 'murder/interrogation' scene.) To my infinite relief, neither man turns into a pile of emotional mush but skillful writing shows us the undercurrents between them, especially after they are reunited and Illya deals with Napoleon's lingering trauma.

In short, right to the favorites list. Well done.

This is amazing! I love how realistic it is - place the mission above your partner, even as it tears you up inside :)

~Star

This is very, very good. The story is interesting. The dialogue is natural. The character's inner monologues reflect their distinct personalities. The last is the thing that most strikes me. I'm not a writer, but I would guess that it is not an easy effect to pull off.

You've also managed to write affecting H/C with enough restraint that the characters remain themselves rather than turning into props, for which you are to be commended.

Enjoyed it? This was so beautifully done, everything portrayed to perfection! I could see, hear and commiserate with both agents as I read this. The horror of Napoleon's conditioning, the fear, anxiety, and mental breakdown was all just as if I was experiencing the trauma along with him. You couldn't have done better, honestly! Illya's concern and determination; understanding duty trumps personal feelings - but not always, not in the case of finding his friend alive, before it was too late. You put the reader right into their heads, revealing their differing ways of thinking, but still showcasing their connection through their friendship. Are you experienced in dealing with pyschological problems professionally? You sure got inside the topic thoroughly. (Just as an aside, it looks like any entanglements with Elsa Reed may be at an impasse for Napoleon. The truth is, Illya is someone he can trust, and vise versa.) Huge favorite here! I can't give you enogh praise.

This was intense, and quite impressisive. The saying: 'hanging onto every word' certainly applies here. Awesome!

Perfect! Napoleon made that one optimistic lurch to freedom, and Illya appeared at the most opportune moment. Brava! The "interrogation" was a nice touch, and I don't think Waverly is that upset over the psychological torture. Looking forward to the epilogue. And future stories, too.

Ohmigod! This would be such a good movie. Sell it Guy Ritchie. Seriously, the plot and the characters are great. And I love how Napoleon is always the optimist, and got the key.

Speaking of optimists, I incorrectly thought the story was finished. Now I will be uneasy for hours, possibly days, not having a way out for Napoleon or hope for Illya...sigh.. please hurry.

Wonderful story.. Don't keep up waiting too long.

Oomph. That smarts. You dig and don't let go until the end, and even then what is a key without a lock and the chance to turn it into freedom? Masterfully done. The fandom heartstrings are singing, can you hear them?

...I think I'm thoroughly ready for chapter four, that's what I think. ;)

Urgh! Angsty, angsty chapter, indeed! You've got to update this soon. It just can't be that all those innocents have perished, and sadly Illya, too. The key, he has it, hasn't he? Can he actually use it despite the shape he's in? Where's that famous Solo luck? Please!

Illya is the man and the UNCLE agent I would want at my back, bar none.

Elsa can shove it, can't she? ;)

NS has got this; with every ounce of Solo verve, he's got this. Just don't, uhm, ding him up too much; there's no collision on 'em, know what I mean?

Bravo, this is a tale to beat.

So, like Illya, Solo also dares to irk the enemy when in a difficult position. I think Solo is one victim the so-called Baron won't break, but he sure is heading for a world of pain here. This cliffie even made me wince! Upload the next chapter soon. please! I can't wait. (And Elsa is so WRONG about the Russian, very wrong.)

Oh, goodness! If it's possible to actually love and hate something at the same time - then you have me at that point. The first two seasons of the show nicely showcased NS's personality of a clever, outgoing, optomistic charmer who loved both life and his chosen profession, even in spite of the darker aspects of spying. You built the tension up perfectly. I have mental goosebumps! Napoleon having to go to toe with a Thrush sadist - oh, dear.