Work Text
Sherlock and John had been walking on eggshells since Sherrinford. By the time Baker Street was habitable again, the detective had taken up residence in Rosie ´s bedroom, while Rosie slept in her father's. John could no longer stand this house, which brought back too many memories. Sherlock was like a fish out of water without his beloved 221B. But that was the least of their worries.
They had had to deal with the Molly’s disaster, although when she learned of the circumstances of the fateful call, she was immediately more magnanimous. Sherlock had been sincere. He loved Molly. But not in the way she would have liked. John had let her know how distraught Sherlock had been at the thought of hurting her or losing her or both. She'd forgiven him, but there was still an aura of sadness about her. For that day, the day Eurus had made the call, Molly had just learned of her mother’s death.
John, who was already suffering from many traumas: the war, Sherlock's « death », his wife's demise, Eurus's cruel game and the terror of ending up chained and drowned at the bottom of a well, and he also had to overcome his bout of alcoholism to be able to care for his orphaned daughter. And above all, he had to live with the guilt of having cheated on his wife and, even more hurtful, of having almost killed with his own hands the only person who...
Sherlock hid his game well, as usual. But he'd always been in the grip of a storm of emotions, and Sherrinford had turned that storm into a hurricane. Everything was coming to the surface, everything he'd consciously and unconsciously repressed, and if he hadn't been under supervision he'd have plunged back into drugs without remorse. Memories of his sister, of Victor, of the weeks of torture in Serbia, all blended together. Now he understood. His sister, Moriarty, Victor, John...
That's why he felt as if he'd fallen off a cliff when Greg called to tell him that Mycroft was in the emergency room.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- John!
- Hi Greg.
- John I had Sherlock on the phone and he hung up on me.
- It's Monday, isn't it?
- This is serious...
- What's serious?
- Mycroft's in hospital.
- What?? Does Sherlock know? What happened? How did...?
- Yes, he knows, but when I told him he didn't say anything. A silence, then he hung up. Can you tell me if he's on his way?
- I'm not at home... I'm going to the emergency room.
- Okay. I'll be there.Greg hung up.
John called Sherlock, to no avail.*Sherlock, Greg told me. I'll meet you at the hospital.*When John arrived, Greg was in the waiting room. No Sherlock. Lestrade looked haggard. In front of the doors to the examination and operating rooms, two men in black stood guard. How many more were on the roof?
- Greg, how's Mycroft? What happened to him?
- I'm afraid he tried to take his own life, he said, his voice sluggish.
- Oh, God.
- If I hadn't come by... Greg continued, his eyes wide, he'd told me Anthea would be there, that they had work to do... but Anthea... she wrote to me and I realized he'd lied...
- ...
- I found him unconscious in the bathroom... blood everywhere...
- He could have been attacked...
- No, he slit his wrists!*Sherlock, where are you?
*John put his phone back in his pocket. He had tried to comfort a devastated Greg. But with no news from Mycroft, the task seemed impossible. He sat beside him waiting for Sherlock, gnawing at himself in anticipation of his reaction. If Sherrinford had confirmed one thing, it was that Sherlock was deeply attached to his brother. Ever since the episode on the tarmac, when Mycroft's mask had fallen off, he'd known the feeling was mutual. What he didn't know was the bond between Greg and Mycroft. Sherlock had asked Lestrade to look after his brother. Did he suspect something? Or had he instigated...? Not likely. And he'd been right! His brother had obviously been deeply affected. But he hadn't anticipated how badly. Where was he now? Did he blame himself? It was undoubtedly a danger night... and in other circumstances John would have written to Mycroft...Suddenly he heard a commotion behind the doors leading to the examination and operating rooms. Then a clamor. He and Greg leapt to their feet. The two agents were about to rush inside when...
A surgeon carrying a patient on his back pushed open the doors. He was armed. The two men in black pointed their guns at him. People in the waiting room screamed. John shouted to the two agents:
- Don't shoot! Don't shoot! It's Antarctica! And his brother!
The surgeon removed his mask.
- John, Greg, said Sherlock. Help me get my brother out of here.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Drop your weapons! shouted Lestrade, who had drawn and was threatening the two agents.
- Get down! added John.
The two men in black complied.
- I hope you've got a plan, Sherlock, because I'm not stealing an ambulance, exclaimed Greg.
- Follow my lead.Sherlock headed for the exit, followed by a police officer and a soldier to cover him.
Just as they exited, a black van pulled up in front of them. The door slid open. A woman in commando gear helped Sherlock with Mycroft, then Greg and John rushed in after them.
The interior of the van was not equipped like an ambulance, but John immediately spotted emergency medical equipment. He set to work.
While he examined Mycroft, the van sped off. Sherlock climbed into the front passenger seat. Greg stayed close to Mycroft.
John glanced forward for the driver, but saw only a frail, hooded figure dressed in black.
They drove a long way out of town. Mycroft had already been stabilized in the emergency room. Fortunately, John thought. His wrists were bandaged and he was still unconscious.
They drove for about an hour. Lestrade had nipped any hint of a Scotland Yard pursuit in the bud with a simple phone call. As for Sherlock, he'd contacted Love on his mobile and she'd helped them escape.
John had tried in vain to find out where they were going and who the women were who had helped them. But he had his own idea.
When they parked in front of a manor house in the countryside and the driver got out, he knew. She took off her mask and :
- Look at us both, Dr Watson.
Irene Adler.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sherlock hadn't left anything to chance, except perhaps his dramatic exit from the emergency room. Not really his style... Although, John thought, Sherlock armed with a harpoon and covered in blood, not his own... he led them into the grounds of the mansion, pushing his brother into an armchair.
When they reached the entrance to the pool house, Irene beat him to it and punched in a code to open the door. They all entered. Then he told them to follow him to the wine cellar, accessible by elevator and staircase. Finally, he revealed a passageway into the cellar, a very well-stocked one at that, leading to another elevator. When the doors opened, they discovered the entrance to a bunker. Once through the airlock, John was left in no doubt as to the dimensions of the premises. This was a true underground complex. A survivalist's dream. Suddenly, he felt he had to get in touch with Molly to let her know he'd had an emergency and ask her to watch Rosie a little longer. They passed a sort of living room.
- Irene, show Greg around. John, come with me.
- Hey! Where are you going? I'll go with you, said Greg.
Sherlock didn't answer. John complied.
They entered the infirmary and there John saw Molly, who seemed to be waiting for them.
- Molly! Where's Rosie?
- Don't worry, John, she's asleep in the nursery, she said, holding up a baby monitor.
- The nurs...
- John, can you look after Mycroft with Molly? I'll be right back, I've got to talk to my parents.
- Your par...
No, Sherlock hadn't left anything to chance.
Sherlock was just through the door when Mycroft spoke.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Sherlock... brother mine.
The latter immediately went to his brother's bedside.
- I'm here. I'm so sorry.
- There's no need to be. I was careless.
- But it's my fault. If I hadn't brought Mummy and Daddy into this, you wouldn't have felt obliged...
- How are they?
- They're here with us.
- And we're...?
- Safe. She has no way of knowing...
- You'll have to restrain me.
- Obviously.
- Mummy must be very upset.
- I haven't been to see them yet, but it's obvious.
- Have you?
- No sign...
- Oh, well. You were always her favorite.
- Mycroft, we must...
- Yes... Mrs. Hooper, I'm ready.
Molly stepped forward with a syringe.
- But first... Greg...
Greg approached.
- Mycroft, I...
- Thank you for saving me, said Mycroft, holding out his hand.
Greg took it.
- Ties or handcuffs would have sufficed, but in my condition it's safer...
Molly injected the contents of the syringe into the drip, and after a few seconds Mycroft fell unconscious.
- Sherlock... what's going on? Why... asked John.
- He'd have found a way to do it again, we can't risk it. Check him out. He's asleep.
John was already examining his patient and had to face the facts.
- Come on, I'll take you to see Watson.
Sherlock left. John followed, looking over his shoulder. Greg sat next to Mycroft, still holding his hand. Molly was checking the drip.
On the way Sherlock said:
- You've got questions.
- Yes, and although this complex seems rather vast, I won't have time to ask them all before we reach the « nursery ».
Sherlock's cell phone rang and he answered immediately.
- Okay, I'm on my way.
- What's going on, Sherlock? What are we doing here? What happened to Mycroft? What the hell is Irene Adler doing here? And more importantly, why is everyone here?
- If you come with me to see my parents, you'll have some of the answers. Actually, we're Irene's guests... well... let's just say she's treating us to the courtesies of an acquaintance... a certain Michael Pearson... and no... not everyone... well... until now.
Sherlock had led them back to the entrance of the complex. Irene's friend, Kate, had just let two more people in.
- John! What's going on? A helicopter brought us here... I don't see you for months and suddenly I have to leave everything behind to...
- Harry, I don't know much more... but I'll try to explain. Hello, Clara.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
After John promised his sister he'd explain everything later, he followed Sherlock's lead once more.- So you think Eurus is behind Mycroft's attempt.- Of course I do.- And... I was going to say "does that justify such extreme measures?" but I've seen what she's capable of, as you have, so...- Do you approve?- Yes, Sherlock, I only hope...- So do I.They entered the nursery and found Mrs. Hudson with Rosie.- Oh, Sherlock! she said, approaching them with Rosie in her arms. John, she's just woken up, she added, handing him the little girl.- Are you all right, Mrs. Hudson?- I'd like a word with Sherlock.- Shall I leave you to it? asked John as he cuddled his babbling daughter.- No, it'll just take a second- it's literally a word, she said, glaring at Sherlock.- I assure you, Mrs Hudson, the situation does not warrant a Norbury code.- In that case, young man, you owe me an explanation! Where are we now?- Oh, you'll like this. We're in one of Michael Pearson's many homes.- Little Mickey? Oh, my husband hated him, and he didn't come this far back then. Is he here?- No. But you can be sure you won't be short of your herbal soothing in these parts.- Oh Sherlock, where do you think I've been getting my supplies? How long do we have to stay?- Just long enough for me to deal with Mycroft and my parents without having to fear for your lives. And then...- Then, says John, I won't let you face the music alone.- Well, John, you don’t know how on point you are… you're free to learn the violin until then.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Sherlock, have you imprisoned and tied up your parents?
- Not me, probably Kate or Irene. But I talked to them on the phone right after.
- You let a dominatrix tie up your parents!
- At least I know the job was done by the book... if I do say so myself.
- ...
- It's for their own good, John!
In Sherlock's mother's eyes, John read the ultimate disapproval. Her gaze was riveted on her son. His father was not to be outdone, but he seemed more frightened than angry. They were in glass cells not so different from Eurus's, strapped into comfortable armchairs. The kind you sit in front of the TV after a long day.
- How long have they been there?
- An hour at most. Code: 342636, he added.
Sherlock handed John a cup with a straw and headed for his mother's cell. John entered his father's cell.
- Mr. Holmes, I'm sorry, I didn't know anything about this... here.
- Untie me, Dr Watson!
- I'm afraid...
- Mummy, I'm going to remove the gag so I can give you a drink. Please don't scream. I'll explain everything.
Sherlock put his money where his mouth was.
- Sherlock, I take back what I said: you're not the grown of our two sons, far from it. Where's Mycroft?
- He's safe.
- What's the matter, Sherlock?
- Sherlock, agrees his father, tell us what's going on! What are we doing here? Why are we...
- Mummy, Daddy, Mycroft tried to kill himself...
- Oh, no!
- Good heavens!
- But he's stabilized and safe here with us. I feared and still fear that you would imitate him.
- Nonsense!
- But...
- I'm sorry, it's my fault. I shouldn't have brought you to Sherrinford to listen to Eurus play.
John hadn't often heard Sherlock apologize, and he was doing so for the second time that day. Each time, he had seemed extremely vulnerable. For the first time, John understood that Sherlock was absolutely terrified. And only the extreme measures he'd taken had prevented him from completely collapsing.
- If you think Eurus programmed us, then why didn't you ask your friend to subject you to the same treatment? asked Mrs. Holmes.
- Oh, she would have loved that, Sherlock.
- Thanks for your input, John. Because I was playing too... because I don't have any self-destructive impulses...
- You mean other than the usual urges?
- All right... John, tie me up!
- Sorry what?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- I'm guessing this isn't how you envisioned your first time, Dr. Watson. But for a beginner, you did pretty well.John glared at Irene.Sherlock's "cell" was soundproofed. At his request. Although he listened through headphones, two precautions were better than one. Fortunately, he had recordings of his sessions with Eurus. He had to decode them and then compose a sort of antivirus for his brother and his parents. He had his doubts, but had agreed to be restricted in his movements to reassure John. And since he was tied up, he would have to listen to the recordings and compose in his mental palace.- Look at him," said Irene, as if contemplating a landscape worthy of the most beautiful Bierstadt. His eyes closed. They look as if Poe had dreamed them. And what's behind them is even more beautiful. I envy you, Dr. Watson.- Why is that?- Well, I'm not attracted to men, so there's nothing I can do to take care of that itch.- How many times do I have to say this...- You're not gay. Yes... but probably bi, I can't think of any other explanation.John didn't answer. To hell with The Woman! He was glad she was alive and had known it ever since he'd heard the outrageous notification on Sherlock's birthday, but damn her with her insight that bordered on telepathy.He couldn't help taking her advice and admiring Sherlock lost in his mental palace and... bound, by his care, rendered powerless... He shook his head.- Anyway, he said. Thanks for all your help. I'm glad you're alive.Irene looked at him with an indecipherable expression, as if he'd just spoken in an unknown language. She obviously wasn't used to thanks or sincerity. John smiled at the idea that this was undoubtedly an entirely new form of torment for her. And she was the tormentor, not the other way around. To overwhelm her with kindness...- Would you like Kate to relieve us while you settle in?- Yes, I would. We'll have to keep an eye on him. But surely there are cameras, right?- Of course, but if we have to intervene...- I think you're right.- So you agree with me that there's a risk?- Oh, without a doubt. Sherlock hasn't taken this many precautions since...He paused.- Since Moriarty, finished Irene.- Yes. How could you? How could you do business with this... this...- I was terrified, Dr. Watson. Sherlock saved my life more than once after all.John turned to look at her with a question on his lips.Kate entered and laid her hand on Irene's arm.So, without adding anything, they went their separate ways.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sherlock was composing. Beyond the melody, he had identified the motifs, arpeggios, phrases and scales of the Eurus piece he had to counter. He wrote on loose sheets in one room and played his violin (the old one) in another.Everything was going perfectly and he was immersed in the flow when he heard a clatter behind him. He stopped playing, turned around and saw Moriarty. The latter was chained up and grinning madly.- You thought it was over, didn't you, Sherlock? But I told you, I will burn the heart out of you!Sherlock turned, determined to ignore him. Moriarty rushed at him with a cry of rage, but was held back by his chains.- Tut-tut-tut, Sherlock heard from his right as he was about to play.He turned his head.- Don't you think he's lost some of his superbness? What's happened to good manners? said Magnussen mockingly. I knew, of course. I knew, Sherlock, and that would have been my next move. After I'd annihilated John Watson and his wife.Sherlock turned his head to look straight ahead and began playing again. But behind him Moriarty was howling and to his right Magnussen was approaching dangerously. He leaned over Sherlock and licked his cheek. Then he began to flick him.Sherlock didn't stop playing. But he heard a chuckle from his left.- Are you sure you still don't want to die?Sherlock turned his eyes without ceasing to play and saw Culverton Smith still giggling and hiding his irregular smile behind his latex-gloved hand.- If that's the case, tell me, I want to hear you say it.And he let out a loud laugh.Moriarty howled. Magnussen continued to flick him and Culverton Smith couldn't stop laughing. But Sherlock was still playing. - Pa, još uvek nisi umoran? All the strings of his violin snapped under the violence of the bow. Sherlock froze and began to tremble. A single tear rolled down his right cheek, which Magnussen licked clean.Silence fell as his torturer approached, holding a butcher's hook. Sherlock fell to his knees.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Sherlock, they're not real. Neither am I, but I can help you, said John in the other room.Then he entered.Suddenly, the two of them were alone, and Sherlock hesitantly picked up his violin. Then he stood up, placed the instrument in the hollow of his shoulder and bent his head to rest his chin on it. The strings were intact. John, standing in front of him, smiled. That smile of early mornings in the kitchen or evenings by the fire. That smile he gave only to Rosie and to Sherlock. That smile that raised and guarded the walls of their home. That smile that had given back its value to the solar system itself. For that smile Sherlock had endured all, and for that smile he had found all.So Sherlock began to play again.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- John.
- Yes, Sherlock.
- I asked you how Mycroft was.
- Maybe you did, but not out loud, you were in your mental palace…
- ... Oh.
- ... and he's fine. He's awake now. Your parents too, by the way.
- I'm done.
- Good, because I was just about to wake you out of your... trance... it's been a while and...
- It doesn't matter.
- Sherlock, it's been hours, and... I know it's not a pleasant thought, but I have a terrible feeling from time to time that you might just need to pee.
- Very funny, John.
- Isn't it?
- Untie me.
- For someone who's bound hand and foot, I find you very bossy.
- Perhaps you'd like me to beg?
- That's my greatest wish, interjected Irene, who had just entered. Sherlock, I've put on muscle since the old days. The code has changed.
- In my defense, I haven't seen you naked in years, replied Sherlock.
- That can be arranged, retorted Irene.
- And Hamish... it's still code for you to stop the banter, interjected John.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Thank you for staying focused, Dr Watson, I've come to tell you that I've had some indirect news from Sherrinford from a source whose tastes I know: your sister is still there.- Or has returned, said Sherlock.- Quite possibly, interjected John. Sherlock, you know she's waiting for you. It's another trap...- Yes, it probably is, but I don't care about that right now. Untie me so I can play for my brother and my parents.- But... is that wise?- It's all right, John, I've taken care of the problem in my mental palace. Eurus played the piece I composed for me.- And you think that's enough?- Yes. She used Pavlovian conditioning and hypnotic induction in her musical sequence and I decoded everything.- But why...- ... didn't I do it before?- Yes.- I wasn't really sure until Lestrade called me. And... every time I tried to replay the piece in my mental palace, something kept preventing me from concentrating... but this time you helped me.- I did?- Yes, you were there and you helped me. I think she's played the score of my various traumas perfectly up to now.- Oh, I think from a professional point of view, we'd have a lot to talk about, said Irene.Ignoring the woman and not daring to dwell on John's indecipherable expression, Sherlock continued:- Besides, I don't think she wanted me to kill myself. She wants me to lose everyone so she can have me all to herself.- It's when I hear about these family reunions that I'm glad I don't have them anymore, Irene ironized.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sherlock played a violin tune in the infirmary for his brother and parents. The latter had been distraught to see Mycroft at his worst, and they each stood on one side of the bed clasping their son's hands.- I don't feel any different, said his father, when it was over. Very nice piece, by the way, Sherlock.- Oh, don't encourage him said his mother. Mycroft, my little one, how do you feel?- Like a fully functional adult, Mother. Stop fussing.- Indeed, I think it worked, says his brother.- Thank you, Sherlock, says Mycroft. And what are you going to do about the good Doctor? he added, pointing at John.- Me? What... says the latter.- I've already tested several triggers. My conclusions aren't definitive, but I think he is safe.- Safe from what? asked John.- Are you sure? She could have influenced him in any number of ways.- She was just trying to get informations on me...- I'm here, you know! I understand she was my shrink for a while, but I'd remember if...- Really? asked Mycroft, raising an eyebrow.- Well... Sherlock? Did you really test me without telling me?- I didn't want to alarm you...- Do you think she could have hypnotized me?!- No, as I was saying to Mycroft, I've been testing keywords and phrases and...- Sherlock?- I hypnotized you to probe your mind and...- Holy shit!!! exclaimed John, tilting his head back and closing his eyes.When he opened them again, he stared at Sherlock with a the same expression he had at the aquarium. The veins throbbed at his temples.- I'm sorry, John. I had to know...- And it didn't occur to you to tell me?- I was afraid it would trigger a protective mechanism.- And you think she didn't anticipate everything? You let me interact with Rosie, with you...? Without warning me that I could...He paused and clenched his fists, keeping his arms at his sides, then closed his eyes again and inhaled sharply. He opened his eyes again, turned on his heels in military mode and stormed out.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Where's Sherlock? John asked as he entered the kitchen where Mr Holmes, Harry and Mrs Hudson were working.
They were busy preparing a meal. John hadn't seen the others either after putting Rosie to bed.
- Are you asking us? said Harry mockingly. You'd better ask the "mistress" of the house.
- I haven't seen her. This place is huge.
- John, can you set the table in the living room? asked Mrs Hudson.
- For how many people?
- Everyone, I think, replied Mr Holmes. Thank you, Dr Watson.
John opened the cupboards in search of the necessary items, then made his way into the living room, where he found Greg and Mycroft, who had just settled in with Mrs. Holmes. They were sipping whisky and Mrs Holmes was drinking sherry while leafing through a mathematics book. Clara entered, soon followed by Molly.
- Where are the others? asked John.
Molly replied:
- We left Irene and Kate at the spa...
- But we're on a cruise ship, aren't we?! exclaimed John.
- Not far, said Clara, smiling. I have to admit that, despite the circumstances, this is starting to look like the ideal getaway.
- Mrs Hudson tells me we're in a drug lord's bunker? asked Mrs Holmes, closing her book. Is she right?
- Presumably, Mother.
- And you didn't know this place existed? she asked Mycroft, reproachfully.
- Yes, that's true. How could a place like this escape your services? ironized Greg.
- And shall we talk about your services?retorted Mycroft.
- Not my jurisdiction, replied Greg, taking a sip of his whisky.
Mycroft smiled.
- Right... so where's Sherlock?
- Well, after your ruckus in the infirmary, he left shortly after you did, replied Mycroft, and I assumed he'd followed you.
- No... my "ruckus"?
After giving Mycroft an accusatory look, he left.
When he returned, everyone was around the table except Sherlock.
- Ah, John, come and have a bite to eat, said Mrs Hudson, and then perhaps you could bring Sherlock a plate? Oh, sorry, Mrs. Holmes, I hope you don't mind.
- I don't see any harm in it. I'm glad Sherlock's in such good company, replied Mrs Holmes, looking around at all the guests.
- He's nowhere to be seen. I've looked everywhere for him, said John, looking exhausted.
- Even with Rosie? Molly asked.
- Yes, that's where I looked first. Irene, I opened every door. Could he have gone out? Or are there still unexplored parts here?
- I can show you the plan Mickey gave me. Of course he could have gotten out.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Show me that plan! Everyone... come on, everyone... we're looking for Sherlock.- Dr Watson, I think Ms Adler is right, he is gone, says Mycroft.- How much do you know?- Nothing more than you do, but if he didn't follow you earlier and you haven't found him... he's in Sherrinford. Obviously.- Oh, no, no, no! She's waiting for him, she's going to... we can't stay here. That is, you, you stay, he said to Mycroft. Irene, Kate, Greg... let's go.- Sherlock? To Sherrinford? But that's unthinkable, exclaimed his mother.- It doesn't make sense, said his father.- I've wanted to meet her for so long! Irene exclaimed. Kate? What do you say?- I go where you go.- Greg, I forbid you to go.- Forbid me? Mycroft?- If you go, I'll follow you. I'm the only one with clearance, and I won't hesitate to use it.- You know very well you're blacklisted there by your own sister. Besides, I don't think you could bear to set foot there again.- Mr Lestrade's right, Mycroft, said his father.- You'd delay us, you'd be good for nothing, said John. Besides, he added, noticing Mycroft's expression, Greg's right. You've already done your bit. It nearly killed you. Twice. Don't tempt the devil.- Dr Watson. Save my brother.- Oh, shut up, Mycroft, says Mrs Hudson. We all know what he's capable of. Ask John to save your sister if there's anything left to save. By now, Sherlock has taken possession of Sherrinford.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- I've been waiting for this moment. To hold you at gunpoint again.- I didn't think Mycroft would be stupid enough to lock you in here.- Without the slightest trial!- Yes... well, that... can't say I'm surprised, Vivian. May I call you Vivian? Let's just say that your name has become...- Enough, says Norbury. She's expecting you.- Obviously. How do you feel about not being able to kill me? Again.- Don't push your luck.- As if I ever counted on anything other than cold hard facts.- The cold hard facts are that you're back at your sister's mercy.- What's she going to do? Kill me with staccatos?- Come on, Sherlock, you didn't really think I'd lost my speech, did you?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Eurus smiled. She had appeared at the bend in the corridor. Sherlock, unperturbed, replied:- Let's just say I hoped so. Vivian...A shot. Eurus widened his eyes. Lowered them to her chest, raised them again to look at Norbury and then at Sherlock... as if to ask him... then fell backwards. Norbury dropped her weapon, Sherlock retrieved it and rushed towards his sister, keeping Norbury at gunpoint. Eurus' eyes were riveted to the ceiling. Sherlock took her hand.- I'm so sorry, he said, his eyes brimming with tears.She looked up at him, squeezed his fingers gently and breathed her last. Sherlock gave a strangled cry.Hurried footsteps were heard. One of the guards came around the corner. Sherlock shot him in the shoulder, ran past him and retrieved his weapon. He ran towards the Director's office where the guard had come from. He heard running noises at the end of the corridor behind him. He rushed into the bulletproof office and locked the door. Then he went to the microphone and switched it on. He wiped the tears from his cheeks and took out his phone. The guards were on their way. He selected a song, pressed the button next to the microphone and broadcast his own music through the complex's speakers. The guards attacked the door. A small man approached. He waved mischievously at Sherlock, smiling broadly as he swung a bunch of keys. Culverton.But the first few bars of the song had their effect. Culverton stopped smiling and dropped the keys. The guards froze. Then they turned to Culverton and apprehended him. Sherlock rested his forehead on the desk and his shoulders began to tremble.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Still no news? asked John.
- No, Dr Watson, my brother has disappeared. I have activated all my agents. In vain, added Mycroft, looking desperate.
- How are your parents?
- They are taking it hard. They want their son back, and they are having trouble grieving for their daughter. It is all my fault.
- Oh, no, you're not going to start too! One brother at a time, right? The Holmes brothers raising themselves as martyrs... that's enough! Even Irene? Even that Mickey? Doesn't anyone know where he's hiding?
- Greg has of course contacted all the members of his London network. If they know anything, they are hiding it well. What about you, Dr Watson
- What about me?
- How have you been?
John was never going to get used to this new version of Mycroft.
- Oh, you know... an old army doctor with PTSD, who's lost his wife, is an alcoholic, has to raise a motherless child on his own and has lost his best friend twice... the usual.
- You are not alone.
John looked up.
- I won't leave you alone, John.
- Mycroft... find him. And if this is another one of your shenanigans... I don't care... tell me, I promise not to shoot you.
- I wish it was, Dr Watson... and you are too kind. On that note, I am off to say hello to Rosie and Mrs Hudson. I will keep you informed of any developments. And Greg too.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Greg was busy in Mycroft's immaculate kitchen. Mycroft would be home late and Greg wanted to make him a nice dinner after a busy Friday. For his part, Greg had finished his shift early. He had come straight to Mycroft's house with his shopping and a few files under his arm. These were waiting for him on the coffee table in the living room. But for the moment, he was concentrating on his lasagna while sipping a glass of Chianti. He smiled, thinking of Mycroft's impression of Hannibal Lecter.- That'll kill you too, said a baritone voice behind him.Greg dropped his glass, which shattered on the tile floor.- You git! he said, turning to face Sherlock.He rushed over and hugged him.- Your cases, five at best. Not much to go on, said Sherlock, resting his head on his shoulder.- Where the hell have you been?- In rehab.- What?? You in rehab?- Yes. But a bit special...- Impossible, said Mycroft as he entered. They were all on my list.- My...- I see your system alerted you to my arrival. Does Greg know he's being filmed at all time?- Sherlock, what are you doing here? asked his brother.- My mistake, I thought you were worried.- I mean, why are you not with John?- That's the next step.Mycroft approached and stood in front of his brother, wearing an indecipherable expression.- How's Mummy? asked Sherlock.- She will be much better in a few minutes.- My... forgive me, said Sherlock, bowing his head.- You are asking me to forgive you? Sherlock, brother mine, there is nothing to forgive. You had no choice. I am sorry you had to...Sherlock let out a sob.- I killed her, Mycroft.The latter took his brother in his arms and Sherlock clung to him like a lifeline.- You're back, that's all that matters, said Mycroft, resting his chin on Sherlock's skull. My baby brother, he added, closing his eyes.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Rosie, it won't go any faster because you're banging on your tray, said John over his shoulder, while stirring his daughter's mashed potatoes.- Serlock! cried Rosie.- He's not here, darling. He's on vacation.- Watson, have a little patience with your Dad.John turned abruptly. Sherlock was facing him, Rosie in his arms. Rosie laughed and poked him on the shoulder with her head, hanging on to his curls. Sherlock stroked Rosie's cheek, but kept his eyes riveted on John.- This is the last time, John, I swear it.- It'd better be, John replied with a calmness that belied the intensity of his gaze.He took a step forward. Sherlock put Rosie back in her booster seat. John waited until he'd finished, then, with one hand across his chest, he pinned Sherlock against the wall and kissed him.Sherlock was breathless. Finally, he lifted his hands to rest them on John's cheeks. John grabbed the back of his neck and Sherlock kissed him back. They both groaned as the kiss deepened. Tears beaded at their eyelids.John was the first to pull himself together. He stepped back without taking his eyes off Sherlock.- I'll feed Rosie, put her to bed, tell her a story and then we'll talk.Sherlock blinked, dumbfounded.John turned to his daughter, finally aware of the burning smell.- Rosie, you'll have to wait a little longer, but it's Sherlock's fault.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
John prepared another batch of mashed potatoes for Rosie. When she had finished eating, it was time for her bath. As usual, she insisted that Sherlock come along. He sat by the tub and played with Rosie and her boats while John washed his daughter. Sherlock dried her and carried her to her father's room. The three of them sat down on the bed, Rosie between them. Sherlock insisted on reading a story about Maya the bee, which John had rediscovered thanks to his sister. Rosie fell asleep and John put her to bed. They went downstairs to the kitchen, where Sherlock made tea, and into the living room.- It's remarkable how you've redecorated everything. How long did it take? When did you get back? asked Sherlock, sitting down in his armchair.John took his seat opposite him.- About two months and last month. Sherlock... where have you been? Why did you leave? Why haven't I heard from you?- I was in rehab.- Oh! Oh? But Mycroft...- Yes, Irene covered for me and so did Mickey. I owe them a debt of gratitude.- Mickey? We certainly do. He's not short of resources.John was no longer jealous of Irene. But this Mickey...- I was in his clinic.- A drug dealer who owns a rehab clinic? It's ironic. And it makes perfect sense.- It's for the people who work for him. If ever, or when they're too addicted.- A clinic for drug dealers!- Yes, exactly. I've made friends.- But... but... aren't they kings at smuggling drugs anywhere?- That's just it. That's why it was good for me. They also know how to avoid trafficking. And... let's just say the measures are drastic and don't bother with legality.- So you're clean?- Clean as a whistle. John... after what happened, I knew I'd fall back. I knew I'd end up killing myself.John leaned his head back and clenched his jaw.- You're not responsible for what happened.- I killed my sister!- She was going to kill everyone you loved and worse!- Yes...- Sherlock, you tried to save her. Even when you knew about your friend, about the fire, even after what she did to us. She did it again... Mycroft, your parents...- … you.- What about me? Yes, she tried to kill me, but...- John... I've had time to think. I didn't run all the tests.- What are you talking about?- There's one last trigger. It's obvious. It's brilliant... it almost slipped my mind.- Sherlock? What are you talking about? Don't tell me...- John, I love you.John froze. Then he stood up quickly and grabbed the poker. He was about to strike Sherlock with it when he collapsed, unconscious.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
John opened his eyes.
- It was the Captain, with the poker, in the living room, said Sherlock.
- Damn it, Sherlock, what happened?
- You tried to kill me. But luckily I drugged you before.
- Shit, Sherlock!! you said it was the last time!
- That I'd disappear...
John was in Sherlock's bed. He tried to sit up, but to no avail. He realized he was tied up and began to struggle.
- Sherlock! Untie me!
- Not just yet. I've got to make sure...
- How long have I been here? John asked, catching a vague glimpse of light behind the curtains.
- Oh... all night. The hypnosis took a while.
- All night long! Hypnosis?! Where's Rosie?
- With Mrs Hudson who gave me a dressing down.
- You deserve more than a telling-off, Sherlock!
- Anyway... when I told her that you and I needed some privacy she immediately softened.
- You...
- John, you kissed me after all, Sherlock added with a smile.
- It was clearly a moment of madness! How could I ever believe that...
- John, I love you.
- ... you're repeating yourself.
- On purpose.
- So what, then? How am I supposed to react?
- You're obviously no longer homicidal.
- If that's what you think, then you're still having trouble interpreting emotions...
- Oh, I meant no more homicidal than...
- I love you too, by the way.
- ...
- Don't tell me that's a trigger!
- John, said Sherlock, leaning over him. It might be. Do you trust me?
- Yes...
Sherlock kissed John gently, reverently. When John kissed back, Sherlock lay down on top of John and kissed him fiercely. When they stopped to catch their breath, Sherlock said:
- Definitely a trigger.