Done on Part 1, and will.......

 My bad on the delay here. I was called away for another matter. Guess at  my age, we try to do that is needed, before time runs out on us.

As for today, I posted the last chapter of Part 1 of the Sherlock tale. I am still in the midst of still do9ng my epic tale on Odysseus. As it read today, Odysseus had completed thhe twelve tasks as stated in Homer's tale, but my epic covered another two tales added to this one; the TEMPEST and OTHELLO. I am a fan of the Bard, and now I am assimilating the two tales into the epic. 

Effortless? No, it was not. When I thought the epic was ending, the new twists came. I started the epic in June, soon after the movie came out (I had not watched it yet); the urge to do the tale was in my mind for many months, and I guessed the movies triggered it then. 

So, how do you write an epic without omitting the ... structural contents of the original ...? To be honest, it was not easy. I gave my epic a flavor of the 1920s, steampunk, and adapted the three tales into it. Why the 1920s? I was intrigued by that era. I guess Al Capone and Elliot Ness inspired me. Steampunk was to give me the Sci-Fi to the tale. 

With Sci-Fi, I could explore new ideas. 

Came last month; I was tired with other matters on my mind.... I was to drop OTHELLO. I did some rewrites on the passages and found myself entwined in the epic and added new materials. And now I will complete the tale in another month to come... hopefully. (grinning ...... )

How does ODYSSEY blend in with the TEMPEST and OTHELLO? 

Allow me to give you a synopsis of these great tales. 

Odyssey, as it is in Homer's version, is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer that tells of the king of Ithaca on a ten-year journey to return home to find his lover alongside their son, harassed by many suitors. He slayed them all and was reunited with his family. (Sounded like a Chinese tale...hahaha...)

Then the Tempest. 

The Duke of Milan was deposed by his brother, Antonio. Prospero and his daughter were cast off to sea and survived thanks to supplies and books provided by a loyal counselor named Gonzalo. They landed on an isolated island inhabited only by a spirit named Ariel and a savage creature named Caliban. In the original tale, Prospero is a sorcerer and could conjure up a tempest. One day, Antonio shipwrecked there. Well, put two young persons on an island, and they fell in love. Anyway, the plot moved into the vengeance, but soon mercy overrides it all. It was a tale of tragedy about jealousy and betrayal. 

So was Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, secretly marries the noblewoman Desdemona. His envious officer, Iago, tricks Othello into believing Desdemona is having an affair with Michael Cassio, leading Othello to murder Desdemona before taking his own life.

The above focuses on vengeance, love, and betrayal. My version ....... well, twisted the direction, without losing the core of the above. 

Let me complete the epic tale soon. 

Till then, stay safe, and thank you

Heroes Return VI: Book One London Chapter 32 Finale Part 1

 

32.

 

“Doctor Watson, you are …… an asset to Sherlock. It is obvious. As an asset to the other, you are  a liability to me. You invade my privacy at home, and now……. my academic chamber.” The professor placed his lecture notes. He had just completed his lecture on the complex question of Z.

“I just explained to my students the issue of Z; to solve for 𝑧 ((where 𝑧 =𝑥 +𝑦𝑖 ) in a complex number equation, you must expand the expression and separately equate the real and imaginary parts on both sides “ Professor Moriarty looked at Watson who was seated comfortably on the soft high chair.

“Complicated? I believe so for you are a man of medicine while mathematics does not……”

“It does, Professor. I have to be precise to remove the abscess from the …… Posterior Interosseous Nerve; we do refer it as the pin which is the terminal motor branch of the radial nerve, deriving from cervical segments C7 and C8. It supplies motor innervation to all the extensor muscles in the posterior compartment of the forearm except for the extensor carpi radialis longus, and provides sensory fibres to the dorsal wrist capsule.”

“Not a bullet wound, but as a doctor in the field, I have to undo almost every ……. Injury.” Doctor Watson smiled.

“Viola, not ……. I stand corrected. Equally challenging like my equation.” Professor Moriarty adjusted the papers on the desk and then took his seat behind the desk. He reached down to the side of his desk, where he kept the revolver, and found it missing.

“Oh, that was the abscess earlier. It may hurt your wrist.” Doctor Watson smiled. “Now shall we be civilised””

“Oh, I am always.” Professor Moriarty smiled, and leaned back on the seat. “If I am to deduct your reason, may I ……”

“Deductions are Sherlock’s forte. Mine is fast and decisive moves.” Watson smiled. “Now I am here to talk on Ian Masterson.”

“Ian Masterson? Heard of him but never met. He was an ……” Professor Moriarty was cut off.

“Stay to the issue, Professor. You knew Ian Masterson is the Yomi Devils ....”

“Adviser, Doctor. We never met but he made overtures towards me. He offered me riches beyond mine. My paltry wages as a Professor of Mathematics are miniscule to the amount offered.”

“Paltry it may be, but your wealth as the crime lord exceeds the Royal treasury.” Doctor Watson added.

“Standard deviation measured, Doctor. I am ever surprised that you rely on that ridiculous …… advises of those ……. Sub-standard academics from Scotland Yard.” The Professor laughed. “I taught them those skills. Idiots indeed. No one who is a commoner can surpass the wealth of the royalties.”

“Absolutely unless he is a lord by rank.” Doctor Watson smiled. “Now, shall we talk on Ian Masterson?”

“Well, Ian Masterson is after the mining rights for it will gain him great wealth. I do know that his personal worth had been depleted in the Yomi Devils. He supported Ito Matsuke to gain a foothold here but the arrival of the sensei had derailed it all. I was told that the two will meet in a duel, as part of their ritual. If Ito Matsuke dies, the Yomi Devils will …… dissolved.”

“Ian Masterson knew this, and took steps to go to Africa to pursue the mining rights. He holds the lady in custody. And even killed his …… step son, Gavin. He is merciless.” Professor Moriarty sighed. “One reason, I hold no immediate family.”

“Why ……. “How do you know this?” Doctor Watson asked.

“Obviously, you do not know me long enough or in depth. I am the crime lord as said by your friend, Sherlock Holmes. I will not deny nor confirmed it, but I have my sources to know what I need to know.” Professor Moriarty smiled. “However, I am puzzled by your visit here.”

“Africa is  the focus next. I am in knowledge that Ian Masterson is going there, as you had known. Among those going there ……” Doctor Watson was cut off.

“Nayland Smith, sent by his father-in-law, Fu Manchu. I knew for the ticketing office reports to me. Lord Greystokes and Mycroft too, for Ms. Kewala; Scotland Yard have ears for me, and Ian Masterson too. He travels with his own men ready to do battle there.”

“And yourself, and Sherlock……” Professor Moriarty looked at the doctor. “You are not travelling. Was it because of myself, or was it ……. Sherlock may not have his supplier of cocaine in Africa or you will not be here.”

“You are precisely right, Professor. Of late the supply of cocaine had disappeared. So were the morphine’s and opium’s. I was told that the dealers are short of the supply. I had my own deductions; you bought it all.” Doctor Watson had searched all the places for cocaine; he used it on his dying patience if morphine or opium was short, which it was then. “You knew his addiction.”

“Yes, I do. It was not only me who bought it but Fu Manchu. He took up much of it, and was …… to send it to Africa for medication purposes.” Professor Moriarty smiled. “ A generous amount and knew its value.”

“When?” Doctor Watson asked.

“Liverpool tomorrow.” Professor Moriarty looked at the shipping schedule. “I will suggest Sherlock gets his alternative or seek treatment.”

“You knew? Yet you …… Of course, you let him have his supply to manage him.” Doctor Watson was upset. “You are a bastard, Moriarty. I could never break his habit because of him.”

“Like many of us, we just need the right incentive to keep us going. For me, it was always the complex questions of getting the right equation. I need Sherlock to be my nemesis to keep me working  my mind. As you do on Sherlock, curing him is one of yours but the real needs of yours was to wok with him to keep your mind alive; the mundane task of a doctor in the country side is …… mundane. That was why you did not give up your place at 22B Baker Street.”

“Now, Doctor Watson. I will be fair. Take the box next to you. That is enough supply to get him going, and take the ship to Africa. Nayland and Mycroft will need you there. Forget Lord Greystokes, he is at home there. Stop Ian Masterson and …… by jolly, have fun.”

“England will not miss you all. I am here to keep it …… royally glory.” Professor Moriarty smiled. “Care to toast with me for the old Blighty?”

Doctor Watson took his leave with the contents of cocaine. The Professor stepped to the desk where he keeps his drink.

“Would you like a drink, Emperor Fu Manchu?” Professor Moriarty asked. “Or a cup of tea?”

“Not yours, Professor.” Emperor Fu Manchu stepped from the adjacent hidden chamber and sat at where Watson was seated. The professor took back his previous seat.

“It was courteous of you to warn me of the doctor’s visit but too late. He was in here.” The emperor who was there had seen the doctor approaching the chamber. He took to the hidden chamber behind the shelf of books; something that his informers told him of the professor’s chamber. He left a note on the shipping schedule for the professor.

“I am aware. The note was to warn you that I am here.” The emperor smiled. “It courteous for me to tell you that.”

“And of what reason that you sought me out?” Professor Moriarty looked at the other.

“I came because of Ian Masterson matter. I am to return to my land, Cathay as your people named it since Marco Polo explored it.” The emperor smiled. “I much prefer to call it my homeland. I am needed there, but the matter with Ian Masterson remains a pain. I am sending one of my best to challenge Ian Masterson.”

“Nayland Smith?” The professor asked.

“No, not him but my daughter, Fa Lo Shue. She was informed on the departure of Smith there to Africa in the pursuit of a dangerous prey, and I had arranged her ship from Montreal to go there. My message was clear; Smith is in trouble. She will be there soon after him.”

“You are a genius, Emperor Fu Manchu.” The professor smiled. “I disliked that but I had to admit admirable.”

“I am to go now. I was just here to tell you that I am leaving England to yourself…… for now. Do take care.” The emperor took towards the doorway. “And I will tell my men to release your guards. Careful as they were, but mine are better.”

The professor smiled. Colonel Moran Sebastian had three guards at the academic grounds, and none were seen to assist him. Then he knew why.

“Checkmate then.” The professor said to the emperor when he opened the door.

“If it is checkmate, it is called 将死 (Jiāng sǐ).” The emperor stopped in his track. “We will play another set another day.”

Later that day, Doctor Watson approached Sherlock Holmes and held the box in front of him, the other rushed for it, but Watson stepped away.

“You are addicted. You told me it was …….”

“Shut up, Watson. I need that  to think.” Sherlock pulled himself up. “I am not addicted but recent events ……”

“Needed more of your attention? You are not of that  need. Your needs are these. Cocaine have taken over your mind.” Doctor Watson looked at the other. “Let it go and I will find the cure for you.”

“There are none, Watson. Only …….” Sherlock looked out the window. “Shoot me, Moran. I want to die.”

“The Colonel is not there. He is with the Professor now…… reviewing his security details.” Doctor Watson said. “I was with the professor, and he told me more development on Ian Masterson.”

“Ian Masterson……. Yes, the man works in my mind. He is elusive, but unlike many of my adversaries, he does not act directly. He works through proxies.” Sherlock looked to his pipe. “He will get it soon. Mycroft and Nayland are better at his game. Greystokes…….”

“Sherlock, stop talking. Your mind is …… away. You ae not yourself anymore. I saw that in you when I asked you on the cocaine. You denied it but your recent actions were ……. Not yourself.”

“Stop it, Watson. You are not my ……” Sherlock glared at the other.

“I am not. I am your friend, Sherlock. Let me cure you.” Watson looked at the man. “I will administer your ……. Cocaine, but on my …… call.”

“For now, rest your mind. We will plan our journey to Africa later. The others will need us.” Watson reached into the box, and withdrew a vial. “Sit back and relax.”

 

 

End of Book One; London

 

 

.

Heroes Return VI: Book One London Chapter 31

 

31.

 

"There is nothing outside of yourself that can ever enable you to get better, richer, stronger, or smarter. Everything is within." Ogata said of the words of wisdom from Miyamoto Musashi,  when he blocked the swing blade from Ito Matsuke. The two blades clashed when Ito Matsuke swung his katana blade from the overhead strike.

“Ono-ha Itto-ryu, Ito.” ("One Sword, One Blow.")The sensei voiced out. “I taught you that, but you had not learned.”

The sensei went for the Sanbon-me Uchi Otoshi (A downward strike performed in a diagonal motion.) with the katana blade, but Ito had retreated on the defence.

“Good defence, Ito.” The sensei smiled. “My teaching may not be all lost.”

“The great lessons from the master; Ono Tadaaki is one I shall not forget.” Ito Matsuke said. “Your lessons are not lost to me, Sensei. It was a Ippon-me Mae (A straightforward strike to the opponent's head.).”

“A striking move, but you had not prepared your move well. Your opponent is still in the defensive, and had anticipated your move.” The sensei looked to the one he had taught. “Do not let the enemy anticipate your move, strike when they are unsure.”

“Hai!” The Sensei went for another attack; the tsuki (thrust) is a lethal samurai attack where the practitioner drives the point of the sword directly into the opponent's vital organs (throat, lungs, or heart). The move is known for slicing; the thrust is devastatingly fast and difficult to defend against. The power comes not from the arms, but from a sudden, explosive rotation of the hips and waist. Both hands grip the handle tightly as the sword is punched straight down the centre line of the body.

The sensei accompanied his attack by body sinking or a lunging step.

Ito twisted and retreated but the sensei’ katana blade took the cut on Ito’s left rib, but it was a slight wound. He fell backwards and did a body roll to avoid the follow through attack. Hen then crouched up with his katana blade levelled at the sensei.

“You were distracted by my comments.” The Sensei told the other. “In a duel……”

“The primary thing when you take a sword in your hands is your intention to cut the enemy, whatever the means.” Ito cut in. “A lesson I heard many times from you.”

Ito then held out his right hand above his head. It was the pre-arranged signal for his warriors to be revealed. Three dark clothing covered stepped from the shadows.

“You are a disappointment, Ito.” The sensei looked to the three newly arrived assassins as he termed it then. “I was expecting an even match in the duel, but you wanted a street battle.”

“Sensei, I am not your equal, but to overcome you, I am not without resources.” Ito smiled. “Whatever it may take, I am to be alive at the end of this battle.”

“So be it.” The Sensei went into attack on the assassin to his left. The assassin drew out his katana in the manner learned in the dojo. The iconic samurai katana draw, known as Iaijutsu or Iaid; it needs mastery on the three core phases: batto (drawing), tsuihan (cutting), and notō (sheathing). The draw is not a single arm movement, but a synchronized push-pull of both hands using hip and core engagement.

“Hai!” The sensei had slashed at the other on the wrist when the assassin was doing the iaid. The assassin screamed out in pain, and did not see the thrust of the katana blade at its throat.

The Sensei pulled back his katana and faced the other assassin on the right of the one he had killed. The assassin charged at the sensei with the katana held over the head, and was slashed by the sensei on the torso. The remaining assassin took the fighting stance, but was called out by Ito.

“We will attack him together.” Ito Matsuke called out. “Now!”

The assassin charged at the sensei who turned to face him, and Ito who was on the right of the sensei remained standing. The sensei deflected the katana wielded by the other, and turned his body to deliver the side swing on the exposed left side of the assassin. He was confident that he made the correct attack, but the loud noise distracted him.

The bullet impacted on his left shoulder and the sensei retreated. He held onto his katana with the right hand and looked at the wound there.

“A cowardly weapon, Ito.” The Sensei looked at the other who shot him.

“Whatever it takes to win today, Sensei.” Ito said. “I cannot defeat you in the fair duel, but there are no rules in the move to kill you.”

“The Yomi is shamed by you, Ito.” The Sensei staggered backwards and it was then the surviving assassin charged at the sensei. He had his katana on an overhead swing but was stopped then by the sensei with the thrust of the katana at the groin.

“It is only you and me, Sensei.” Ito laughed.

“As it was to be.” Sensei Ogata drew out the small derringer from his vest. He aimed and fired at Ito who was then hit at the throat. The other went down on his knees, clutching the throat. The Sensei stood up and looked at the dying man.

“Ito Matsuke, I am not sorry to bring a gun to our duel. As you had said; whatever it may take, I am to be alive at the end of this battle.”

The Sensei stepped up to the student of his.

“I will end your pain. I will be your second man.” The Sensei drew on his katana and swung it at the back of the other’s neck. The katana blade sliced the man with a quick death.

“It does not end the Yomi Demons.” The sensei turned to look who was the one talking.

“Fu Manchu. I am ……. Should I be? You are the emperor. You must know all that is happening here.”

“I do, Sensei. As I know now, that you are a formidable exponent and the Oni Society is the one who are losing when one like yourself chose to be a ronin.” Fu Manchu stepped from the dark shadow.

“You do not understand the ways of the samurai nor of the Oni Society.” The sensei sheathed the katana, and stood there with his left shoulder bleeding.

“Bad wound that one. I shall not keep you long here.” The old man who is the emperor said. “However, I will tell you this.”

“Ito Matsuke is dead but not the Yomi Devils. His superior or shall I say, benefactor is on the way to Africa, to be enriched. The one who is the true leader of the Yomi Devils is Ian Masterson. The man is the founder of the Yomi Devils, not from your home land, but of mine.”

‘Ian Masterson is a master strategist. He had formed the Yomi Devils, when he was on my land to challenge the Oni Society, for he saw the fierce dedication of the warriors there in your land, and decided to recruit them. He met Ito Matsuke and convinced him on the new group and introduced himself as the adviser. He paid well, and was soon recruiting others. He did not want to be seen as the leader and had Ito be his proxy.”

“He had also tried to form a group on my territory, but I chased him away. He returned here soon after he sent Ito here. He was planning to get resources to strengthen his group, but I arrived to stop his expansion. He had sent Ito to see the crime lord, Professor Moriarty, but the latter was in two minds of the venture. After all, Professor Moriarty is rich beyond the levels of most, and yes, he was to retire ever richer ……. But who among us ever do less of that.”

“When you arrived, Ito Masterson was concerned. He was into a plan to get wealth but everything was beyond his planning.”

“I came to stop the Yomi Devils.” The Sensei said of his intention. “It had nothing to do with your, or the …… crime lord.”

“Yet you approached the local authorities here. You got the Holmes brothers involved.” Fu Manchu smiled. “Bad fruits for me there. I survived removing the bad fruits.”

‘What do you want, Emperor?” The Sensei was agitated.

“Stop Ian Masterson. You go to Africa to get the minerals rights, not for yourself but the Oni Society. Get yourself back on their trust.” Fu Manchu told the sensei. “Let me handle the crime lord, and his nemesis, Sherlock Holmes…… Or they will of myself. But I will say the current threat remains with Ian Masterson. Stop him, and one day…… we will meet once more as adversary. Today, enough deaths have been taken. Go to Africa.”

“I am ……” The sensei looked at his wound.

“It will be attended by healers, and more to that I am sending you reinforcements to assist you. They will fight in my name for you.” Fu Manchu smiled. “It was hard for me to imagine us working together, but Ian Masterson is a deadly enemy to grow. He will if he gets the mineral rights.”

“I will give you fifty of my best warriors, and my own ship for your travel to the Congo.” Fu Manchu smiled widen. “Rest well on the ship. It’s a long journey by ship. It departs Liverpool tomorrow at dusk.”

“What of yourself, emperor?” The Sensei asked.

“Our battle remains unless some others got the devil to take my life before you. For now, I am to return to my land. I will not fight the Holmes, and for Moriarty not today ……. He has his empire as I do. I only came to his ports to ease my shipments, but we were never meant to be adversary not today. I will match them that one day soon. But for now, your enemy is mine, and that makes you, my friend.”

“Go now, Doctor Ogata. You are bleeding on the wound.” The emperor smiled. “Do not die for now. Remove Ian Masterson first.”

 

Heroes Return VI: Book One London Chapter 30

 

30.

 

 

“All abroad!” The Chief Steward of the Trojan called out to the ones waiting at the dock. “We sailed within the hour.”

The Chief Steward sported the seafaring look on his chin; the classic, rugged style defined by a full, thick beard grown long; past the chin and paired with a heavy moustache. He wore the mariner cap with the doble breasted dark jacket, with the crisp white pants and dark leather shoes. He had a misstep on his footings, and had balance himself on the railings.

“Taken aback huh, Chief.” ( Surprised or shocked, originating from when wind shifts and blows sails flat against the mast.) “Or was it the earlier than usual, bottle of rum, huh?” Jonah the assistant steward nudged the Chief.

“I had not any drink as yet, Jonah.” The Chief frowned at the sailor. “And we ain’t at sea yet, Jonah. So, behave yourself or you will find yourself assigned to the decks below.”

“You seem to be off balance there.” Jonah looked at the Chief. “You are sure to take on the journey. I heard your last medical report held some questions that you need to stay on shore.”

“Not a whisper on my report. I am fine as a dandy lad now. Now get yourself on deck.” The Chief called on the sailor.

“Any loose cannon?” (An unpredictable person, originating from dangerous, unsecured cannons on deck ). Jonah asked. “The last journey had us a lunatic who had us some hard times chasing him around the decks. I …….”

“Deck it, Jonah. The only loose cannon is yourself. I am akin to lashing you to the anchor and tossing it over without the rope.” The last journey from the south had them a passenger who was delirious with the fever ailment and had to be restrained in the cabin. However, he escaped several times, and quoted the words of God on the decks, causing unease among the other passengers.

“That will the day the ship sails with the Flying Dutchman.” Jonah smiled. (The Flying Dutchman is a legendary 17th-century ghost ship doomed to sail the oceans forever, serving as a dreaded omen of doom for sailors.)

“Clam it, sailor.” The Chief put a stop to the jabbering sailor, who is his Aunt Petunia’s son and God blessed the lady for having still able to breathe at the elderly age of over a century.

“Jonah, we had a change of passengers listing. Some of them cancelled at the last moment; thirteen to be exact, and was replaced by a group who paid hefty for the passage. They called themselves the Pure Hearted.”

“Another pack of God’s fearing offerings. God, why can we not have decent passengers who will not tell us their interpretation of God.”

“Jonah, place them in the same deck, and bloody well tell Jerome to keep his distance from them. I do want him offering any heretics passages to these ‘puritans’.”

“Bloody works to relocate the cabins.” Jonah cursed out. “And Chief, we have two other new passengers in First Class; one lordy person and his aide.”

“Oh great. Check on Javier if we stocked on the caviar? We may need that for the lord.”

“I checked, and Javier said, sod off. He will serve the Lord, cod and haddock like any decent Englishman will be favoured any day.” Jonah said the exact words from the dining staff.

“Clam it, Jonah.” The Chief then turned to the newly arrived. “Welcome aboard the Trojan.”

“Master Masterson, and my entourage. Members of the Pure Hearted.” Ian Masterson who was in disguise, handed over the stacks of tickets and stepped aboard.

“Welcome, gentlemen. Aha, I see your names. Late entry but we have a more cabins than passenger this trip. I am ever pleased to accommodate the congregation members. We will prefer to be left alone and please have our meals sent to the cabin daily.”

The Chief smiled at the leader of the congregation. He did a head count and then reached for the tickets.

“This way, Sir.” The Chief counted the numbers of tickets. “Twelve, I got the numbers.”

The Chief then signalled Jonah to lead the way, and watched the passing faces of the entourage with a drawn smile across his face. They took off after Jonah while the Chief grind his teeth from muttering any profanities. In the thoughts of the Chief, them jacks looked they were sauteed from Pure Hell instead of Pure Hearted. He had seen his share of bad fellows and those looked they just been released from Newgate Prison.

“My ticket, Sir.” The Chief was jolted from his daymare and stared at the extended offering of the new guest. “Lord John Greystokes.”

The aristocrat had his servant to carry his luggage.

“My luggage’s are on the pier. I do not need your staff to assist.” Lord Greystokes indicated to the four sets of huge bags.

“My aide will carry my bags.” Lord Greystokes walked on, and was followed by two dark skinned men, whom the captain stopped.

“Sorry, not darkies on this deck.”

“Pardon me, Captain. They are my aides and will stay with me.” Lord Greystokes confronted the other. “Are you saying that they are not allowed?”

“No…… I meant to say, that the servants stayed below deck.” The captain explained the conditions imposed by the ship owner.

“Who is it? Lil Abaner. I will tell him I was mistreated and will never sail on his ships.” Lord Greystokes turned to leave.

“Lord Greystokes, my apologies. I can make an exception to the condition. They may stay with  you but they have to remain inside during the journey.”

“Amicable but the matter will be raised to your owner.” Lord Greystokes then proceeded on board.

“I will inform the staff. Please come abroad, Lord Greystokes. My deck staff will attend to you. The first-class cabins are on the upper deck. We have the private privy to the cabin.” The Chief smiled and saw the rifle bag carried by the attending aide.

“Are you travelling for a safari? The Sharps rifle is a good match against the savages there.”

“No, it is not a Sharps. It is a Winchester, and the rifle is to kill the white poachers …… truly savages. I do not consent to any safari. And also, the rude people.” Lord Greystokes stepped past the Chief. The person who followed though was a stout tall man.

“Mycroft, Government attaché. I am ……. an aide to Lord Greystokes. I am white and Victorian.” Mycroft smiled. “And I also carry a long bag. It contains my rifle.”

“I also used the mallet on the killing spree. I like to leave a bigger hole.” The man smiled. “Again, Mycroft is the name.”

“I am impressed. Jerome, please carry the gentleman’s bags.” The Chief placed on a wide smile.

“Not needed. I am capable of carrying my own.” Mycroft smiled and took after Lord Greystokes.

“Nathan, Paul. Missionary man. Here to speak of God’s words.” The passenger stepped on board next. He handed the ticket to the Chief. The man sported a short beard and had on the small, wire-rimmed spectacles with coloured glass; amber in shade. He wore the dark priest frock and the white collar. He carried on two suitcases with him.

“Welcome abroad, Sir. You will be boarded at the second deck.” The Chief smiled. “There are the other group of Pure Heated …… pardon me, Pure Hearted, who will be your neighbours.”

“I will not stay with them. They are puritans, and lack the moral upholding that I held.” The passenger looked at the Chief. “Give me another cabin on another deck for myself.”

“So be it, Sir. You will occupy the other end of the deck. We trust you will enjoy your journey.” The Chief smiled. He took a glance at  his watch and smiled. It was time to sail then.

“Blood good lot these are.”

 

Heroes Return VI: Book One London Chapter 29

 

29.

 

It did not take long for Sherlock Holmes to get the invite from Ian Masterson. It was late morning when the detective was at his seat at the unit when he got the knock on his door. He looked up and saw Mrs. Hudson admitting to the man.

“Ian Masterson, I presume.” Sherlock, dressed in the dressing gown over his usual tweeds, smiled when he lowered the dark pipe from his errant attempt to clean it daily. The chamber was filled with the aromatic scent of the tobacco. His preference was the black shag, coarse-cut leaves, and dark in shade. He kept his tobacco in the Persian carpet slippers of his.

“I could tell you are not a pipe smoker. The mixture I like……" Sherlock looked at the man.

“Black Shag.” Ian Masterson was dressed in the fine blue Savoy-cut three-piece suit. He stepped up towards the detective while removing his top hat.

“I am not a pipe smoker myself but have been around lots who do that.” Ian Masterson smiled. “A regular occurrence of the trade I am in. May I seat myself?”

“Please do. Watson is not around.” Sherlock looked at the other. “Your ……”

“I do spend a lot of time with the captains of the sail, and they loved their pipes more than their wives.”

“Yes, sea captains smoked pipe tobacco, as it is calming, and for some, it is a social ritual. A key comfort during long, stressful, and monotonous voyages, and pipes are ideal in windy conditions. Tobacco allowed for a slow burn rather than rapid smoking, and the pipes could be capped to contain hot ash and embers on wooden ships.”

“Fair winds and following seas.” Ian Masterson cut in with the favorite of sayings of the seafarers, to denote good luck. “For me, despite all my liaisons with them, I have not picked up any smoking lures as yet.”

“Good man there.” Sherlock studied the man he heard but did not meet. “You are here, and not with Mycroft. I presume to conclude that you are here for the reports… partial ones that were redirected to me. I am taking that presumption.”

“Ahoy, matey! The captains will call out on sighting another vessel.” Ian Masterson smiled. “I like your direct presumption. We are all at sea here for this precarious treasure, and you cut the sails to meet me on open seas.”

“Open seas it is. I got the partial reports, and you, I believe, hold the other part. Are we to trade?” Sherlock asked. “I believe the term is parley.”

“Parley?” Ian Masterson looked at the other. “For what are we to trade?”

“Ms. Kewala, I will presume you have her as a… trade-off." Sherlock picked up the pipe. “Please allow me to clear the air here. I am a busy man. I need my breath of fresh air.”

Sherlock approached the window and opened it. He took a deep breath and then turned towards the man.

“Wrong, Mr. Holmes. I am not here to trade… pardon me, parley. Actually, I am here to tell you that I will collect it… perhaps later.” Ian smiled. “I am not any man nor captain of the seas. However, I am a sleuth in the business of spies. We are also called operatives, and we do not trade but retrieve the items we need by whatever means.”

“Conclusively by force if need be.” Sherlock Holmes took him back to his seat. “I abhor violence. It's needless, but I do accept that it is one means of intervention. And I expect that from you.

“I do not like violence unless needed.” Ian Masterson stood up. “However, our matter in London is not over as yet. I will collect the reports.”

“Which I am sadly to inform you are no longer with me.” Sherlock looked at the man. “I will cut your effort here. I have sent the reports along with Mycroft and Nayland to the Congo. The conclusion of the reports lies there.”

“Unwary of that action. You are truly a master genius at it.” Ian Masterson stood up. “If they are on their way, then I will take my journey there. Shall we say the rush to the treasure is afoot?"

“Not a parable of mine. Parables are of moral or religious matters. But I do use the term "afoot" much more to agitate Watson to move. He does dislike it. Well, he had not used the privy yet.”

“Well, I must be on my way," said Ian Masterson. “Privy called for me.”

“At an instance delayed. What about Ms. Kewala?” Sherlock asked.

“She is with me and will be till I find the treasure. I liked that term there. Treasure sounds fresh to scoundrels like myself.” Ian Masterson smiled. “I am amused by the ranks I am associated with.”

“I thought the word would be fascination.” Sherlock looked at the man.

Amusement is light-hearted, often humorous, whereas fascination, deeply intense, is beyond my reach for now. When I said "scoundrel," I was amused, for it delighted my fantasy to the ranks of Robin Hood, but I am not that fascinated by that rank, for Robin Hood is not the person I want to be. I prefer to rob and be rich.”

“So are scoundrels," Sherlock said. “Although they lacked the morals for their action.”

“True, scoundrels are supposedly miscreants of society, but they have the essence of one being a villain.” Ian Masterson turned to the door. “And please do not delay me. I know you have signaled your friends to come to your rescue, which was unnecessary. I had no intention to hurt you. I just wanted the reports, which are not in your possession now.”

Ian Masterson took his leave then. Sherlock sat there and lit his pipe. It was then Mycroft and Nayland appeared from an adjacent chamber.

“Why did you not let me nab the scoundrel?” Mycroft asked.

“Well, it was my intention to set him on his journey. I had deduced that he has the other half of the reports and also Ms. Kewala in his custody. He has shown his urgency to get the mining rights. And more to it, his presence here tells me of his role there.” Sherlock looked at Nayland. “He will be on the ship to Africa soon, or perhaps on the same one as you."

“The Trojan? It sails today.” Nayland remembered his trip. Sherlock ignored the man.

“To your question, Mycroft. If we had acted on Ian Masterson now, we would have jeopardized the life of Ms. Kewala. I had anticipated the early arrival of Ian Masterson today… far too early, to be honest, and also by chance I saw him alighting the carriage, and then I had sent the two of you to the next chamber. Now, we are in the meeting of our objective to close the case.”

“By golly, who was that, Holmes?” It was Watson who just stepped back to the chamber. “Was he in a rush to the privy? I must tell Mrs. Hudson to add one more unit. I was reading the sports section while there.”

“No concern, my dear Watson. It was elementary that the man was in a rush.” Sherlock took a puff on his pipe. “He is to catch a ship.”

“Did I ship in too early? It is your infernal pipe and God; so early I am to suffocate.” Watson on occasion insults Sherlock on this choice of tobacco. “I prefer my 'ship's tobacco’ to your black shag.”

Watson took to his seat. “Who sat here? It's warm. Not exactly the condition I prefer.”

“I had opened the window to clear the air, dear Watson. And the one who sat there was Ian Masterson.” Sherlock explained. “He was here to ... parley on the mining reports.”

“A pirate intention no less.” Watson reached for his pipe.

“He assumed I was signaling for help when I wanted to clear the chamber of my smoke.” Sherlock took another puff on his pipe.

“Do keep the window open. I cannot understand the both of you and your pipes.” Mycroft made his statement while stepping over to the window. “As it…. Smog had engulfed over London and was already suffocating us, and you’re smoking just made it unbearable.”

“Exactly my point, Mycroft. Thank goodness the need did not extend in your family.” Watson added on the insult.

“Calm down, Mycroft. It's not like we took your prized bear from you.” Sherlock teased the other. “Now, back to the matter on hand. I had set Ian Masterson on the trail to Africa, and he will act on it. I will suggest that Mycroft followed Nayland on that journey. I had telegraphed Lord Greystokes to follow suit.”

“Watson and I will be in London. There is still the issue with Moriarty, which we need to keep an eye on, and one other name, Mitsui Ogata. I doubt the latter will go to Africa as yet, but may want to clear the name of the Oni Society; namely, the Demon Society will need to be expunged.”

“What about Fu Manchu?” Mycroft asked.

“The crafty man is in London and I assumed he would not be a pawn in the game. He will act on the loose ends of the outcome.” Sherlock looked at Watson. “Are you with me?”

“Looks like I have few options here.” Watson looked at his papers left on the table. “If I am not, you may well bloody auction my seat to some others.”

“Good on the thought, though I did offer it to the Salvation Army (founded in 1878), but they declined.” Sherlock's rarest moment of humor was seen then. “They said it lacked comfort.”

“I have another meeting today. Catch you all later.” Watson was to take off when Sherlock stopped him.

“Watson, could you…" Sherlock looked at Watson. “I am……"

“I will see to that. I am aware of yours and find ……. Let me check.” Doctor Watson grabbed his hat.

“What was that about?” Mycroft asked and saw Sherlock’s right hand was shaking. He knew then.

Across the city, Ito Matsuke stood patiently at the disused warehouse, waiting for the arrival of his sensei. He got the invite by telegraph and arrived there earlier by an hour. It was getting to past noon, and patience was one of the virtues taught to him. He was dressed in the samurai armor, tosei-gusoku, or modern armor favored for movement mobility. It was a design shift from the heavier o-yoroi armor, with kabuto (helmet), dp (chest armor), sode (shoulder guards), kote (sleeve armor), haidate (thigh guard), and suneate (shin guards). He had on the double katana tucked into the waist belt. His men-yoroi, or face mask, was a stark impression of the Yomi Demon with the double horn and angry expression.

The shade of his armor was in red and black.

“You come prepared as I requested.” Mitsui Ogata stepped from the dark shadow, dressed in the simple yukata kimono suit, and held the long katana and the shorter wakizashi sword.

“I admire your katana.” The sensei indicated the two katana blades.

“Muramusa origin.” Ito laid his hands on the hilt of the katanas.   The design held the characteristics on its blade, renowned for distinctive, wavy, and flamboyant temper lines (hamon) known as midare-ba and often featured a tongue-shaped tang (nakago). It, however, was said to be cursed, associated with bad luck for the Tokugawa clan, including injuries to Tokugawa Ieyasu himself, thus leading to a ban on their ownership and the nickname "cursed swords."

“Muramusa ……. Great craftmanship despite the link to the dark history of its bearer.” Ogata smiled. " I have with me is my grandfather’s forge blades. Not Masamune, but my ancestors did learn from his disciple, Hikoshiro Sadamune. The katana is the sword, but the blade is the one who cuts the wounds. Beware the blade, for it held two sharp edges.”

“The worth of the blade is not on it but the bearer of it. Is this to be our duel of death, Sensei?” Ito asked. “You mock me for being dressed for it, and you settled for the commoner’s kimono.”

“Do not mock the costume of your people. This is the popular form of our nation.” The Sensei stopped his disciple. “And why the sudden arrogance in your manner?”

“Sensei, if I may address you one last time. You are here not to teach me, nor do I need your guidance. We know the outcome today. I am here to duel with you.”

“No, we are to duel. We are here to be taught a lesson on loyalty.” Ogata snapped back. “You have forgotten the teaching of mine, taught to me by my sensei.”

“Why do you not don the armor of the samurai? It will make the duel as worthy.”

“I am no longer a samurai. My lord, if you recall, is dead. I am now a ronin, a masterless samurai.” The sensei reminded the other. “I do not have to don the armor of the samurai. I am without a lord, but I still hold onto my principle of my teaching. Do you recall your learning, Ito Matsuke?”

“Yes.” Ito Matsuke glared at the man he called his Sensei. “Loyalty to death, I swear. I am loyal but to me as the new lord, Lord Yomi of the Yomi Demons.”

“Traitorous, Ito. That Lord you mentioned is not a samurai but a jackal in the midst among warriors.” The sensei roared out. “Today I will terminate your arrogance, as it’s the task of the master to do so on its errant disciple.”

 

Heroes Return VI: Book One London Chapter 28

 

28.

 

Mindy Kewala sat by herself in the chamber where she was kept locked in. The windows were blacked out, and she was unsure where she was kept. The door was unlocked, and Lieutenant Gavin McLeod walked in.

“Mindy, I…"

“Gavin, you may remain silent. I am not talking to you.”

“Mindy, please understand. I am on your side. I am trying to avoid any harm to you.” Lieutenant Gavin McLeod approached the lady.

“Stay away, Gavin. What we had is over now.”

“Mindy ……" Lieutenant Gavin McLeod stopped in his tracks. “I tried to warn you then. The… others were there and acted on their own.”

“They killed the Waziri warriors. The dead will be avenged. I know the Waziri warrior’s code. Nothing will be left undone till their vengeance is done.” Mindy looked away. “They will also kill me.”

“Which is why we need to protect you.” Lieutenant Gavin McLeod stood there in front of the lady. “They are … not locals. They are foreigners who are affiliated with ……"

“Does it matter, Gavin?” Mindy was upset. “My …… The Waziri will not let me go. I am dead if they ever catch hold of me.”

“Mindy, do not fear them. I am here.” Lieutenant Gavin McLeod reached out with his arms, but she rejected them.

“Go away, Gavin.”

“Mindy, do tell, where are the reports? You said half was given to Mycroft, and the other half?” Lieutenant Gavin McLeod moved the subject matter.

"I…… Why are you concerned about that? Are you…?" Mindy saw the man she loathed then.

“He is involved. Where are the other papers, Mindy?” Ian Masterson asked.

“I had it sent to my father. He was to safekeep it for me.” Mindy looked at the other man. “Go and ask him.”

“Do not be defiant, girl.” Ian Masterson took on the harsh tone. “I know your father too.”

“Ian, let her be.” Lieutenant Gavin McLeod stepped in.

“Stand down, soldier. I am handling matters here.” Ian Masterson reprimanded the other. “Mindy, be reasonable. I can deal with your father too, if need be.”

“As you are not working with me, I am forced to take action.” Ian Masterson pulled the revolver from his waist belt. Lieutenant Gavin McLeod stepped up to protect the lady, but Ian Masterson had his aim at the lieutenant. He shot the officer in the chest.

“You are the damned hero here, Gavin. I was not aiming at her but you. You have ceased to be a part of me.” Ian Masterson looked at the fallen figure. “I do not tolerate failures.”

“Ian, he is your son!” Mindy cried out.

“Step-son, girl. He did not get me inside him.” Ian Masterson looked at the lady. “Now, let me plan your trip home.”

Meanwhile, Sherlock was holding onto the violin without strumming the strings, seated in the armchair by the window. He was in deep thought while Doctor Watson was reading the sports section of the news and having his breakfast.

“Newton Heath playing the Rovers tomorrow. It will be a washout there.” Doctor Watson beamed with joy while reading. “I saw them at the Three Crowns when they have their change of kits. (Newton Heath LYR F.C. is the original name for Manchester United).

“Not a fan of football, huh?” Doctor Watson looked from his papers. “I should have known. You were a rower for the boats. Legs spread out and they will hobble the ball past you anytime.”

“I was a rower but not fancy enough to have two dozen men running around on the field looking to kick a ball.” Sherlock did not mince his words.

“I am wondering why the lady handed the… partial reports to Mycroft. Was it to tell us some clues?” Sherlock looked out of the window.

“Are you on your medicine? You are exposing yourself at the window. The last time, we had an arrow at you, and previously the gunshot then.” Doctor Watson looked at the other.

“Elementary, Watson. I am getting my share of sunshine, despite the heavy smog out there. One day soon, we will be relieved by the shade of it, but for now, let me get my body to regain its shine.”

“Try a cold turkey treatment, and you will look better.” Doctor Watson looked back at his papers.

“I got it!” Sherlock sat up. “The lady was telling us that the mining reports are the link and giving us partial ones, holding up one option; the affected party will look for it. They may have Ms. Kewala in custody, but without the reports, she was of no use.”

“The question is who has the other half?” Sherlock looked at the doctor. “It is the other team, but which one? Once both teams get together, we will have the full reports.”

“Tell me, Watson. Who will benefit from the reports?” Sherlock raised the query. “The Demons? Or the Treasury? It is grand wealth there.”

“Or the land owners of the land?” Doctor Watson spoke up. “The games are played at the North Road stands because the Newton Heath LYR F.C. holds the rights to it. It can seat twelve thousand. It is an ideal place for the supporters to congregate…"

“Congo, it is," Sherlock cried out. “The other report could be there.”

“You are right on there.” Nayland Smith stepped in to the unit. He was with Mycroft.

“Blimey me. What, or rather, why are you here so early?” Doctor Watson looked up from the papers at the two arrivals. "And… godly hours it seems.”

“I met Mycroft downstairs, and we step up together.” Nayland Smith sat himself at the breakfast spread. “I am famished.”

While Nayland took delight in the spread, Mycroft took the next seat there.

“I met Nayland and hold some news for all.” Mycroft woofed down the bacon there on the plate.

“Let me speak first.” Nayland cut in. “I was at Millwall Dock. I was looking for some chaps who deal with dynamites. I saw one of them, Charlie…"

“Charles Darwin, or nicknamed Charlie Boom," Sherlock cut in. “He is a dealer in explosives. Knew of him from my reports.”

“Yes, Charlie Darwin. He hung out at the docks where the explosives are delivered." Nayland continued. “I had him cornered, and he confessed to the explosives. He sold it to one named Kataka Sukimora, but the description fitted more to Ito Matsuke.”

“I went there later and found that Ian Masterson is involved… deeply, and all this leads to Africa. More specific is the Congo.” What Nayland Smith did not relate was the actual events there.

“Welcome, Nayland.” The old man stepped from the dark to greet the man he once detested but soon accepted as his daughter’s lover. Nayland had sneaked into the warehouse, but he was seen. The old man then appeared to meet him.

“Fu Manchu, Emperor, we meet once more.” Nayland approached the old man. Two burly men appeared from behind the old man.

“Before you, I am no emperor. I am just the old man who wants to talk.” Fu Manchu smiled, his thin mustache spread out like young sprouts.

“And no need to be rash, Nayland. We are… related. There is more honor than just being friends.” The old man smiled and gestured to his guards to step aside.

“Fu Manchu, leave Lo Shue out. She is…"

“I meant no harm to my… errant daughter. Or to her lover. I was told you were coming to the docks.” Fu Manchu shifted to the subject matter.

“Your informants are better than I thought.” Nayland stopped in his tracks.

“Keep your enemies at bay, but never lose sight of their movements.” Fu Manchu approached Nayland Smith. “And the man you are looking for is with me. His name is Charles Darwin, or Charlie Boom to his associates. He had confessed to the explosives sold to one named Sukimora, but the description fit another named Ito Matsuke. We all look alike to them, but we know our own better.”

“I am impressed. In China, I would have smiled, but here in London, it is an amazement that you hold a network equally as good.” Nayland Smith praised the old man.

“I guess old habits stay with me.” The old man smiled. “One day, your child will inherit it. Anyway, the man who bought the explosives was familiar with it and had used it on several occasions.”

“How deep do you know of the Yomi Demons?” Nayland Smith shifted the focus.

“Deeper than you may think. They are here, and……. We had some dealings with them, but we shared a common dislike for each other. Nevertheless, we are mutual in our trades.” The old man replied. “Since you asked me about them. They conflict with Sherlock Holmes.”

Nayland Smith remained silent.

“You knew that. There are words that they are involved with some mining rights in the Congo, but I am not keen. They have an adviser that you may know: Ian Masterson. He is the viper in the pit here.”

“I know Ian Masterson.” Nayland Smith looked at the older man.

“A shrewd operative who played with many sides, yet he swore allegiance to none. However, he is their adviser. And… loosely allied with one named Moriarty.”

“The circle is getting smaller. I have now heard of Ian Masterson, yourself, and …. Moriarty.” Nayland Smith stepped to the right and watched the stacks of containers there, trying to get a glimpse of the ones watching him.

“I am not involved, Nayland Smith. That is why I meet you here.” Fu Manchu smiled once more. “The events here are not of my doing. I do not want to offend my family ties. Follow Ian Masterson; take the Trojan from Liverpool tomorrow. I have booked your passage there. It will get you to Africa. You may get to solve the case.”

“Madness!” Nayland looked at the older man.

“Madness prevails in us." The elder man smiled. “You included it because you took the… desire to wed my daughter. Wonderful, how love does us madness?” 

“Are you…" Nayland saw the older man had turned his back and was walking away. It meant the audience granted was over. He will not know if the older man accepted his relationship with the daughter.

“Nayland, are you sober?” Mycroft shook the man out of his thoughts.

“Yes, I am. I met Fu Manchu.” Nayland lowered his head.

“Yes, we do get that feeling when we meet the in-laws.” Mycroft smiled. “However, I am not privileged to that.”

“The old man is right. Africa is the spot to resolve the case.” Sherlock beamed out.

“I got the booking on the Trojan tomorrow in late afternoon.” Nayland said.