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It was one of those rare times where Yujin had some free time. There wasn't any pressing cases that Herlock had dragged him into, so he jumped at the idea of finally being able to make plans with others. On a quiet Sunday evening, Yujin had arranged to meet Genshin Asogi at a local restaurant. Like Yujin, Genshin was another taking a part in the exchange tour, studying under London's finest.

The restaurant was quiet; it was why they had chosen it. Here, they could be away from prying eyes, the cold stares. It was Herlock that had recommended the place to him. Yujin smiled at the thought and stirred his tea, watching the milk swirl and swirl. Life was relatively normal - something he didn't have when he was with Herlock.

Genshin lifted his cup to his lips and smiled. "You do seem a lot happier, if I may say so," he said in their native language, "Did you finally get over your flatmate's awful habits?"

"Sholmes is a perfectly good flatmate," Yujin lied, "I told you I'd get used to him, didn't I? I'm not as lucky as you or Jigoku. Besides, the cases I investigate with Sholmes help with the rent."

"Ah, yes, the cases," Genshin took a sip from his tea before continuing. "They're awfully... Oh, what's the word? Unusual," he said in English.

Yujin raised an eyebrow and suppressed a chuckle. "Have we really been here for so long that you're forgetting your Japanese? It's a good thing I'm here to remind you. I'll admit that the cases my... partner attracts are a tad unusual, yes. But they're awfully interesting."

"I heard from Inspector Gregson that you almost got shot last time," Genshin pointed out, "I am worried about you, my friend. I'd rather not have to visit you in hospital..."

The waiter walked over to them and handed Yujin a card. "Dr Mikotoba?" He said, "Sorry to interrupt, but an urgent telegram came for you."

"A telegram?" Yujin repeated, his eyes going wide. He took the card and read the message addressed to him.

'Come at once if convenient. If inconvenient, come all the same - H.S'

"Let me guess - Mr Sholmes?" Genshin deduced, leaning forward with a smirk. "Only he would interrupt our meeting like this. There's also the fact that you were unsurprised upon reaching the end of the message... No doubt you had just read who it was from, and realised that it made perfect sense."

Yujin wished his friends weren't detectives. No matter how hard he tried, he could never keep a secret from them for long. "A case must've popped up," Yujin said as he stood up in a hurry. "I'm ever so sorry, but Sholmes needs me. We'll have to continue this another day. I'll make it up to you."

Genshin shook his head. "Don't apologise. If someone has consulted Mr Sholmes, then it must be important. Besides, we've almost finished with our tea. Oh, but, before you go-"

He stopped in his tracks. "Yes?"

"If you ever need any help, feel free to consult me," Genshin told him, his eyes full of determination. "I may not be as eccentric as Mr Sholmes, but I'm sure I could be of service."

"I'll keep that in mind," Yujin replied, "Once again, I'm awfully sorry. When this case is solved, I'll let you know immediately so we can meet up again. Goodbye, my friend. I hope we can see each other again soon."

In his heart of hearts, Yujin knew that Herlock had summoned him so he could bounce his ideas off of him. He claimed that he found it easier to bombard Yujin with his thoughts, rather than keep them bottled up inside of his mind. Of course, Yujin was happy to help - but he couldn't help but to feel rather rude as he left his friend behind. Whatever the case was, it must've been important. After all, Herlock knew he had a prior arrangement.

----

Yujin arrived at Baker Street in somewhat of a rush. He barged into their flat, only to find Herlock huddled up on the sofa with his knees close to his chest, his pipe in his mouth, and his brow furrowed in thought. It was clear that something was on his mind. He waved at Yujin to sit opposite him, otherwise not acknowledging his presence.

Somewhat out of breath, Yujin collapsed into the seat opposite. "I came as soon as I got your telegram, Sholmes. Whatever is the matter? Is it a case?" He asked, bombarding his partner with a variety of questions.

"You will excuse my daydreaming, Mikotoba," said Herlock with his usual whimsical smile, "In the past twenty-four hours, some curious facts have been presented to me. I am considering on writing a study on the usage of dogs in my line of work."

Yujin stared back at him. "Did you say... dogs?"

"I know what you're thinking - such a thing has already been explored! You'd be incorrect, Mikotoba!" He chortled, "A dog reflects the family it lives with. Have you ever seen a sad dog in a happy family? Dangerous people have dangerous dogs - do you not see?"

"You do realise I left a prior arrangement early to come here, Sholmes?"

"Patience, Mikotoba! This is to do with the matter that I am currently investigating," Herlock took a breath from his pipe before continuing. "It is a tangled thread, and I am looking for a loose end. One possible loose end lies in the question: Why does Professor Presbury's faithful wolfhound, Roy, endeavour to bite him?"

"I left a prior arrangement early to come here, Sholmes," Yujin repeated as he shot an annoyed glare towards his partner. "Do you realise how long I've been planning to see Genshin? I've been so busy lately that I haven't had the time to see him. Yet, when I finally do, you force me to leave early in a manner most rude, and over... a dog? The matter is trivial, surely!"

"There has never been a piece of information that I regard as trivial when it comes to my investigations - you must know that by now, Mikotoba," Herlock replied, "The gravest issues may depend on the smallest things. Presbury is a famous Camford physiologist. His wolfhound is his most faithful companion. Why, then, has man's best friend twice attacked him?"

Yujin sank back into his chair in disappointment. "The dog is ill. That is what I make of it," he said.

"That has to be considered, yes. But he attacks no one else, and the attacks only happen on very special occasions. Curious, Mikotoba - very curious." Herlock's ears pricked up as he heard a knock from downstairs. "That must be Mr Bennett - he is rather early. I had hoped to chat with you for longer before he came..."

There was a quick step on the stairs, a sharp tap at the door, and a moment later, their client presented himself. He was a tall, well-dressed man, although he seemed rather shy. He shook hands with Herlock before turning to Yujin with surprise.

"The matter is very delicate, Mr Sholmes," he said with a frown. "Consider the Professor's social standing. It is best we keep the matter between ourselves."

Herlock shook his head and put his pipe down. "Have no fear, Mr Bennett. My partner here, Dr Mikotoba, is the very soul of discretion. I can assure you that this is a matter of which I require my trusty partner."

Their client, Mr Bennett, relaxed a little. "If you say so, Mr Sholmes. You understand why I'm cautious about this matter."

"Of course," Herlock replied as he turned to Yujin. "Meet Presbury's assistant, Trevor Bennett. The man lives under his roof and is engaged to his only daughter. I hope you will not object, Mr Bennett, to me explaining the situation to Mikotoba? I haven't had the chance to go over them as of yet."

"There has been some fresh developments that I wish to explain, too," Mr Bennett informed them, "You'd best get your partner up to speed before I explain further."

The three of them took their seats as Herlock began to explain the strange story. "In all of Presbury's life, there has never been a breath of a scandal. His life has been relatively normal - he is a widower with only one daughter, Edith. He is a determined an eccentric man at times. So it was, until a few short months ago."

"He was in the middle of a lecture when he just... collapsed," Mr Bennett explained, "He's sixty-one years of age, but he never once let that hold him back. However, the doctor informed him that his age was finally catching up to him. Soon, he'd have to retire from his beloved work, lest his body fall short again."

"Simply old age catching up to him, but nonetheless, it was a health scare," Herlock continued, "For a man to be so fit and healthy for his entire life, only to then be told that his time may be nigh... No matter how rich one is, Mikotoba, you can never turn back the tides of time. He was told to slow down his work."

"It seems like a perfectly normal case of old age so far," Yujin commented, "I fail to see where the dog factors in-"

"Patience, Mikotoba!" Herlock hissed at him, "We're getting there. The first unusual thing happened shortly after the doctor told him of the unfortunate news. He did something that he had never done before. He left home and gave no indication as to where he was going. He was away for a fortnight, and returned looking rather travel-worn. Even with Mr Bennett's prodding, he refused to say where he might've been."

"When I was going over his correspondence," said Mr Bennett, "I found a letter from a student in Prague, detailing how they were glad to see Professor Presbury there. This was how we discovered the location of his secret trip."

"Now comes the point, Mikotoba!" Herlock leaned forwards in a fit of excitement. "From that time onwards, a curious change came over the Professor. He became furtive and sly. Those around him realised that he was no longer the man they once knew; there was something darker hiding beneath. His intellect was not affected, for his lectures were as brilliant as ever."

"Edith - his daughter - tried ever so hard to break through this barrier," Mr Bennett muttered, "When he came back, he wasn't as talkative as he used to be. It was like he was trying to shut us out. I tried the same, but all was in vain. You must understand, Dr Mikotoba, that the Professor never keeps any secrets from me. He treats me as if I am his own son. As his secretary, I am trusted with sorting through his letters, reading them through and such."

"I can only imagine the trust he held in you," said Yujin, "The Professor appears to be a kind man. Please, continue."

Mr Bennett nodded and took a deep breath. "Shortly after his return, that all changed. He told me that certain letters might come to him from London which would be marked by a cross under the stamp. These were to be set aside for his eyes only. Several of these letters passed through my hands, and they were in messy handwriting. If he answered them at all, the letters did not pass through my hands."

"Don't forget the box," whispered Herlock.

"Ah, yes, the box!" Mr Bennett cried, his eyes going wide with realisation. "The Professor brought back a little wooden box from his travels. I believe the design can be associated with Germany, with the quaint carving... although, I'm no expert. He placed this in his instrument cupboard. One day, when I was looking for a cannula, I picked up the box out of curiosity. To my surprise, the Professor became extremely angry, yelling all sorts of obscenities at me. It was the first time anything like that had ever happened. I tried to explain in the evening that it was an accident, but he still looked at me with anger - the incident must've played harshly in his mind. This was on... the 2nd of July."

"You noted it down in your diary, correct?" Herlock leaned back in his chair. "I may need some of these dates which you have mentioned. They may prove useful."

"I learned a great deal from the Professor. I felt it was my duty to study his case and make note of each abnormality." Mr Bennett reached into his pocket and pulled out his diary. "I have it here - on that same day, Roy attacked the Professor. This happened again on the 11th and the 20th. It was after the last one when we decided to banish him to the stables. He was a dear, affectionate animal, and... Mr Sholmes, am I boring you?"

It was very clear that Herlock wasn't listening. His face was rigid and his eyes gazed abstractedly at the ceiling. Yujin cleared his throat, and he quickly recovered from his daydream.

"I'm sure my partner was just thinking," Yujin assured Mr Bennett - even though he knew it wasn't true.

"A most peculiar case," Herlock muttered, "I think we have gone over the old ground, have we not? You spoke of some fresh developments. Please, go on."

The pleasant face of their visitor clouded over in a grim remembrance. "It happened the night before last. I was lying awake about two in the morning, when I heard a sound coming from the hallway. I opened my door and peeked out. Oh, I should mention that the Professor sleeps at the end of the hallway-"

"What was the date?" Herlock said, interrupting Mr Bennett's story.

"I have said, sir," Mr Bennett replied in annoyance, "that it was the night before last - September 4th."

Herlock nodded and smiled. "Pray, continue."

Mr Bennett let out a sigh before continuing. "He sleeps at the end of the hallway, and would have to pass my door to reach the staircase. It was really a terrifying experience. The hallway ceiling is supported by large horizontal support beams, although they are far too high for any man to reach without assistance. As I looked up, I saw a figure on top of them, jumping from one beam to the next. I have never seen something so extraordinary - there were no signs of a ladder in the hallway, or anything else that might've aided them. I cried out, and the figure jumped down. That was when I noticed that it was the Professor - he spat out some atrocious word at me and crept down the stairs. His manner was like a creeping man. I waited an hour for him to return, but he did not. It must have been daylight before he returned to his room."

"What do you make of that, Mikotoba?" Herlock asked his partner, an amused tone in his voice.

"The hallway was dark - yes?" Yujin crossed his arms in thought. "There's a chance that a ladder was indeed used, or some other item. Considering his age, there's no chance of being able to accomplish such a feat on his own. I dare say that even Sholmes would struggle without something to help him up."

"You always keep your theories grounded, don't you, Mikotoba?" Herlock let out a smirk. "Our friend here was alone for over an hour. Do you not think he would've investigated the hallway? If he found something like a ladder, he would've said so. Yet, these are the facts that have been presented to us."

"He has never been in better health, despite the health scare earlier this year," Mr Bennett informed them, "In fact, he is stronger than I have known him in years. It is not a case that we can consult the police, Mr Sholmes, and yet, we are at our wit's end. Edith - Miss Presbury - feels as I do, that we cannot wait passively any longer."

"Are you sure that you do not wish to seek an expert of the mind?" Yujin suggested, "Perhaps the Professor's problem lies more with that - the health scare can't have done him well. His journey abroad could be to do with having one last journey abroad before he becomes unable to. The letters and his box could just be connected to some other private transaction, such as a loan."

Herlock burst out into a fit of laughter. "And the wolfhound no doubt disapproved of this financial bargain, did he, Mikotoba? No, no, there is more to it than that. Now, I can only suggest-"

Whatever Herlock Sholmes was about to suggest was lost to time. At that moment, the door flung open and a young woman entered the room. As she appeared, Mr Bennett sprang up with a cry and ran forwards with outstretched hands.

"Edith!" He cried, pulling the woman into a hug. "I didn't expect to see you here. Whatever is the matter?"

"I felt I must follow you," replied Miss Presbury, "I've been so dreadfully frightened! It is awful to be there alone."

Mr Bennett turned to Herlock and Yujin with a smile. "My apologies. This is the young lady that I spoke of earlier; my fiancée."

"We were coming to that conclusion, weren't we, Mikotoba?" Herlock answered with a grin. "Is there some fresh development in the case, Miss Presbury?"

Miss Presbury nodded and seated herself next to Mr Bennett. "When I found that Mr Bennett had left his hotel, I thought I should find him here. He told me that he would consult you, you see. Can you help my poor father, Mr Sholmes?"

"I have hope that I will, Miss Presbury, but there are still a few facts that remain to be told," Herlock paused and raised an eyebrow. "Perhaps, what you have to say may throw some fresh light upon it."

"It was last night, Mr Sholmes," Miss Presbury began, "My father had been very strange all day. I am certain that there are times where he has no recollection of what he does. It's like he spends his day with his head in the clouds. Yesterday was such a day."

Yujin leaned forwards in his seat. "Tell us what happened," he said.

"I was awakened in the night by the dog barking most furiously, Poor Roy - he is chained up in the stables all on his own," Miss Presbury took a breath before continuing. "I always sleep with my door locked. My room is on the second floor. It happened that the blind was up that night, and there was a bright moonlight outside. As I lay with my eyes fixed upon the square go light, listening to the frenzied barking of the dog, I saw a figure climbing up the side of the house."

"She wasn't dreaming," Mr Bennett insisted, "That night, I, too, heard odd sounds at the side of the house. I thought nothing of it until she mentioned this strange story."

"I felt paralysed in fear, but I looked out to get a better look," Miss Presbury continued, "It was my father. I'm sure of it. He climbed to the top of our home, reached the roof, and let out a celebratory cry. I thought I was going mad. I lay cold and shivering until morning. At breakfast, he was awfully short-tempered, but he made no allusion to the adventure of the night."

Herlock looked thoroughly surprised at Miss Presbury's narrative. "Is there not a long ladder that could've been used?" He asked her.

"No, Mr Sholmes," she replied, "That's the amazing part of it. How could a man his age accomplish such a feat as that? Trevor tried to see how he did it, but even he couldn't attempt it."

"The date being the 5th of September," Herlock muttered, "That certainly complicates matters."

This time, it was Mr Bennett's turn to look surprised. "This is the second time you've alluded to the date, Mr Sholmes," he said, "Is it possible that it has any bearing upon the case?"

"It is possible, yes. If you could leave your notebook with me, I will check the dates. Now, Mikotoba," Herlock turned to his partner with a sly smile. "It seems that the Professor remembers little or nothing of the strange events that occur on certain dates. We will therefore call upon him as if he had given us an appointment upon such a date. He will put it down to his own lack of memory. It will provide us with a chance to see the man up close."

"I must warn you both," Mr Bennett interrupted him, "The Professor is short-tempered and can be violent at times."

"Nothing of which we haven't dealt with before," Herlock replied, "Tomorrow, Mr Bennett, you will see us at Camford. I wish you both well - Mikotoba and I will do whatever we can to assist you with this peculiar problem."

----

It was Monday morning, and the two of them were on their way to Camford. The train was quiet, much to Herlock's delight. He found it easier to think when the train was like this. That, and he could talk to Yujin about whatever crossed his mind without raising any eyebrows - their topics of conversation would often be alarming to the average citizen.

Whilst Yujin looked at the scenery outside, Herlock gazed at his partner. He had seen the scenery a thousand times, but Yujin's reaction to it was new. It was entertaining to him to see Yujin lean forwards to count the passing sheep, or how he would study each building that passed them by.

"How much Latin do you know, Mikotoba?" He asked his partner, leaning back in his seat.

"Only what you have taught me, Sholmes," Yujin replied, turning away from the scenery. "Why do you ask?"

"I wondered if you would be able to translate the following phrase," he said, "Memento mori. Have you heard of it before?"

Yujin frowned and crossed his arms in thought. "I believe it means... remember death, for a direct translation. I've heard of it once before."

"Yes - remember that you will die, for death is inevitable," Herlock took a breath from his pipe before continuing. "I don't wish to bring down the mood - I was merely thinking. It's a rather beautiful phrase, isn't it?"

Yujin wasn't quite sure where he was going with this. "It is, yes... You're not worried over death or something, are you, Sholmes?"

Herlock shook his head, letting out a light chuckle. "Ah, I believe you're referring to fear of death. Relax - I, for one, am not. It is an inevitable thing, but some people worry themselves - and you'll excuse the phrasing - to death over it. A perfectly natural part of life, but because we're unsure of what happens next, we become scared of it. Some try to find peace in the idea of an afterlife-"

"I can't help but wonder why you're thinking about this all of a sudden," Yujin noted, interrupting him before he could possibly offend those around them, "You're worrying me."

"You always worry about me," Herlock pointed out, "I was just thinking, that's all. Perhaps some text I read the other day is at the front of my mind during this mindless journey. You know I have to keep my mind occupied. If I am really worrying you that badly, then we can talk about the case. I believe we'll be able to catch the Professor just before lunch. He lectures at eleven, and should have an interval at home."

"What possible excuse could we have for calling? If we tell him the truth, the game will be up. We'll have to come up with some sort of lie."

Herlock glanced at his notebook and scanned the text. "Here we are - there was a period of abnormality on the 26th of August. We will assume that his memory is a little hazy during these times. If we insist we are there by appointment, he will hardly contradict us. I hope he won't, at least. Are you prepared, Mikotoba?"

"I am always prepared," he replied, "There's no danger in trying. If we do nothing, then failure is certain."

"An excellent quote, Mikotoba!" Herlock flashed a smile, his eyes wide with adoration. "Your optimism is dearly appreciated. Ah - the train appears to have arrived at our station. We'll hire a hansom and head to Presbury's home at once."

The hansom they hired swept them past a row of ancient colleges before finally turning into a tree-lined drive. It pulled up at the door of a charming house, surrounded by vast lawns and covered with purple wisteria. From an upstairs window, Herlock spotted that they were being watched by a pair of keen eyes as they got off the hansom and headed towards the front door.

A moment later, they were inside the luxurious home of Professor Presbury. Despite reports of his eccentric behaviour, his appearance showed no signs of it - his eyes were keen and observant, but nothing out of the ordinary. His office was tidy, almost to the point of an obsession.

Professor Presbury looked the two over and sat down at his desk. "Pray, sit down, gentlemen. What can I do you for?" He asked them.

Herlock smiled pleasantly. "I was about to ask you the same thing, Professor. I heard through a second person that Professor Presbury of Camford had need of my services."

"Oh, did you, now?" There was a malicious sparkle behind Professor Presbury's intense grey eyes. "May I ask the name of your informant?"

"We're awfully sorry, but the matter is rather confidential," Yujin smiled apologetically - he'd have plenty of chances to practice his acting skills during his time as Herlock's partner, and it was paying off. "If we have made a mistake, then there is no harm done."

"I wish to delve into this matter further," Professor Presbury insisted, "It interests me. Have you any scrap of writing, any letter or telegram, to support your assertion?"

Herlock shook his head. "No, I have not."

"You can't possibly be trying to assert that it was I that summoned you?" He said with a frown.

"I'm not one for questions, Professor. I'm usually the one asking them, you see," Herlock replied, not letting go of his smile.

"You aren't, are you?" Professor Presbury spat, his tone a harsh one. "It is easily answered without your assistance." He picked up a bell on his desk and shook it, the bell piercing their ears. A moment later, Mr Bennett walked into the room in response.

"Mr Bennett," Professor Presbury began, "These two gentlemen have come from London under the impression that they have been summoned. You handle all of my correspondence. Have you a note of anything going to a person named Sholmes?"

"No, sir," Mr Bennett replied, looking awfully flushed.

"That is conclusive," said Professor Presbury, glaring angrily at Herlock. He leaned forwards with two hands on the table. "Now, sir, it seems to me that your position is a very questionable one."

If he was intimidated, Herlock didn't show it. He simply shrugged his shoulders. "I can only repeat that I am sorry that we have made a needless intrusion."

"That's hardly enough, Mr Sholmes!" the Professor cried, his face contorting with anger. He grabbed Herlock by the collar and pulled him close, shaking him with a furious passion. "You can hardly get out of it so easily as that!"

Yujin leapt out of his seat in alarm. "Professor, please! It was a harmless mistake! There's no need to get so angry-"

"Don't think you can worm your way out of this, either!" Professor Presbury turned to Yujin with a harsh glare. He shoved Herlock back down into his seat before walking over towards Yujin, eyes filled with harmful intent.

"Professor!" Mr Bennett exclaimed, pitching himself in between the Professor and Yujin. "Consider your position! Consider the scandal to the university! Mr Sholmes is a well-known man - you cannot possibly treat him or his partner with such discourtesy!"

This was enough to calm the Professor. He backed off, allowing Herlock and Yujin to retreat outside. Yujin couldn't get out of there fast enough; he didn't calm down until they knew they were away from the Professor's short temper. The comforting English breeze greeted them the moment they stepped outside.

Yujin noticed that Herlock's tie and collar were looking a bit worse for wear after their confrontation; his partner had hardly said a word since. "Your tie," said Yujin as he began to tidy the disheveled mess. "Are you alright, Sholmes?"

Herlock looked away. His breathing was shaky, but it wasn't because of the experience he'd just had. They were awfully close - he could feel Yujin's breath on his neck. "I'm fine," he mumbled, "I've never known someone so old to have such great strength..."

"Sholmes?"

"Hm?"

"I've sorted it. You can stop looking away now."

"I wasn't-" Herlock turned back to his partner, only to find that the space between them had grown. He'd missed his chance. "Thank you, Mikotoba. It seems that Presbury's nerves are shot out of order. Whilst our intrusion was rude, I have gained valuable insight into his nature personally. Say, do you hear that?"

There were sounds of running feet behind them, but to their relief, it was Mr Bennett, not the formidable Professor. He rounded the curve of the drive, panting as he caught up to them. "I'm ever so sorry Mr Sholmes," he gasped, "I wish to apologise-"

"Don't apologise, Mr Bennett," Yujin replied in an assuring tone, "We've faced many a danger before. It's nothing new."

"I have never seen him in a more dangerous mood. He grows more sinister every week," Mr Bennett muttered, "You can understand why his daughter and I are alarmed. Yet, his mind remains clear."

"Indeed! It was a miscalculation on my part to think otherwise," Herlock admitted, "It is evident that his memory is much more reliable than I had thought. Before we go, Mr Bennett, would it be possible to see the window of Miss Presbury's room?"

Mr Bennett nodded and pushed his way through some shrubs, revealing a view of the side of the house. "It is there," he said, "The second on the left."

"It hardly seems accessible," Yujin commented, "Although, there's some creeper and a water pipe scaling the side of the building. Still, I can't imagine any normal man would be able to achieve such a feat."

"It would certainly be a dangerous exploit," Herlock agreed with a nod. "The chances of falling, or the creeper snapping..."

"There was one other thing I wished to tell you, Mr Sholmes," Mr Bennett handed Herlock a piece of paper with some scribbled writing on. "I have the address of the man in London to whom the Professor writes to. He seems to have written this morning - I obtained this from his blotting-paper."

"A technique I often use myself," Herlock took the paper and examined it for a moment before placing it in his pocket. "Dorak, hm? A curious name. We will return to London in the meantime, Mr Bennet. The Professor has committed no crime, so we cannot arrest him. No purpose can be served by us remaining."

Mr Bennett frowned heavily. "Then what am I to do?"

"Have patience, Mr Bennett," Herlock told him, "Things will soon develop. Unless I am mistaken, next Tuesday may mark a crisis. We will be in Camford on that day, I assure you."

Before Mr Bennett could utter a reply, the front door opened. Professor Presbury glanced about, alarming Mr Bennett. "There he is!" Mr Bennett gasped, dashing off to meet with his employer. With one last wave, he slipped off among the trees, following his employer into the house.

"I expect the old man has been putting two and two together," Herlock said as they began to walk back into Camford, "He struck me as a man of intelligence. If he suspects one of his own household of summoning detectives, then I worry for Mr Bennett. He may be in for an uncomfortable time."

"What about this Dorak fellow?" Yujin asked, looking out for a hansom to get them back to the train station. "If we investigate him ourselves, it might raise the alarm further. He's already onto us, is he not?"

"Exactly my thinking. I require someone else to do the investigating for us. Someone we can trust," Herlock lit his pipe before continuing. "Any suggestions?"

Yujin had one person in mind. "What about Genshin?" He suggested, "He's a detective, and he's someone we can trust. In fact, he even said he'd help us with our investigations. We could take him up on the offer."

"Mr Asogi?" Herlock repeated, taking a breath from his pipe. "If you believe the man can do a good job, then I'll send a telegram his way immediately. We'll tell him to meet us back at Baker Street this evening with his findings."

They summoned a hansom and headed to the nearby post office to send off the telegram. Yujin knew that Genshin could be trusted - not only that, but he was a fine detective, too. If they had to ask anyone else for assistance, then he was the perfect fit.

----

Sure enough, Genshin appeared on their doorstep that very evening. Yujin, in his apologetic nature, had prepared a meal for them all to share. They sat round the iron chest (which doubled as a table) that contained all of Yujin's notes regarding their investigations. Why they couldn't get an actual table, he didn't know.

"I trust you had no issues with your investigation, Mr Asogi?" Herlock asked as he munched loudly on his food.

"It was no trouble at all," Genshin replied, "I'm just glad I could help you. The man suspected nothing, of course. He assumed I was just another customer."

"So this Dorak runs a general store, does he?" Yujin shot a glare towards Herlock - his way of telling him to eat quieter.

"On Commercial Road, yes," Genshin confirmed, not taking any notice of Herlock's loud chewing. "He's an elderly man, originally from Prague. For the amount of customers he has, there's no way he's able to keep his store going. I suspect that he has a side business or two to support it."

"It certainly matches up with the Prague visit, Mikotoba," Herlock whispered towards his partner before turning back to Genshin. "An excellent deduction, Mr Asogi - you may be correct."

"I suppose neither of you are going to tell me what sort of mess you've gotten yourselves into this time?" Genshin let out a chuckle. "It must've been important, Mr Sholmes, for you to drag Yujin away like that. That's the second time you've interrupted one of our meetings. You're awfully protective of him. Is there... something I should know?"

Yujin's eyes widened. Genshin didn't... know about them, did he? He hadn't told him; no one else knew about it, after all. They hadn't even discussed telling people - why should they? He glanced to Herlock hopefully, wondering if the time had finally come.

With a smile, Herlock shook his head. "I do apologise for that. In this case, Mikotoba's medical expertise was required. I would hardly trust anyone else with being my partner. I can hardly ignore a cry for help - surely you understand?" He paused. "Why, is Klint van Zieks complaining about my behaviour again? Ever since I kindly let him stay over following that awful fire, he's done nothing but complain-"

"He said that your attic bed was rock hard," Genshin interjected, "And that you kept playing music throughout the entire night. He couldn't get a wink of sleep. A-At least, that's what he told me..."

"You grow use to it after a while," Yujin smiled nervously at the two. "Still, what was he to do? The roads were blocked off, and he had no way of getting home. All of the nearby hotels were booked up, too. Our attic room was spare, so it was the only option, really."

"Mikotoba even served breakfast - and the man still complains?" Herlock sat back in his seat in a huff. "That's the last time I let him stay over. Honestly, Mikotoba, can you believe him?"

Yujin ignored his partner's complaints and turned to Genshin. "Sorry about him. We really do appreciate your help. I hope you didn't have any other plans for today..."

Genshin placed a hand over his breast pocket and smiled. "I had... one thing to do today, but it was easily done. It wasn't a bother at all."

"No doubt it was to write to your son, yes?" Herlock deduced, "You placed a hand over your breast pocket, which contains a picture of him. You were thinking of him when Mikotoba asked you what your plans were for today."

With a confused look, Genshin pulled out a photograph from his breast pocket. It was of him and his son, Kazuma. "How did you... Was it really that obvious? Or did Yujin tell you about Kazuma?"

"You received a letter from Japan?" Yujin bit his lip. He was still waiting on a reply from Susato - even if she was still learning how to write.

"From Kazuma, yes. He demands that I write back as soon as I receive his letters," Genshin explained, "He's started to practice slicing up watermelons from various distances. I'll admit, I'm a little concerned... but I know that, one day, Karuma will be safe in his hands." He paused. "Hopefully, he won't use it to slice watermelons."

"You'd best head back before it gets too dark," said Herlock, "It was an honour having you here. Perhaps I'll ask for your assistance again someday, Mr Asogi."

Yujin thanked Genshin once again and stood up. He led Genshin outside and turned to leave, only to be stopped by him.

Genshin cleared his throat. "Still no reply from Susato?"

"No," Yujin replied.

"I'm sure her letter will get here soon."

Yujin forced a nod and said goodbye. He didn't want to think about it; what if Susato was ignoring him on purpose? Even if she couldn't write perfectly yet, she would often send her drawings. Yet, he hadn't heard anything from her for months. Did his letter get lost? Was she the one still waiting for a reply?

In his daydream, he trudged back to their suite. It was his partner's voice that snapped him out of his guilt.

"Is everything alright, Mikotoba?"

"Hm?" Yujin looked up and saw that he had managed to sit back down, opposite his partner. "Yes, yes. I'm fine. What about the case?"

Herlock poured him a glass of wine, still not entirely convinced. Yet, he didn't press any further. "Let us discuss the dates, first. Mr Bennett's diary tells us that there was trouble on the 2nd of July, and from then onwards it seems to have been at nine-day intervals, with only one exception. The last one happened on the 5th of September, which slots in nicely with the pattern."

"It is certainly beyond coincidence," Yujin agreed.

"I... have a theory," Herlock began, his gaze darkening. "I believe that the man takes some sort of strong drug every nine days which has awful, but passing side effects. A poisonous one, if you will. His violent nature is intensified by it. I also - from experience - noticed some behaviours common in drug users. His furtive nature, for example. He learned to take this drug while he was in Prague, and is now supplied with it by Dorak."

"Could this be one that we know of?" Yujin paused, noting his partner's concerned expression. "No; it can't be. You wouldn't look so concerned if you had an idea of what it was. You suspect it's something new, which is why you're so worried. You have no idea how to deal with it."

Herlock's eyes widened with surprise. "Since when did you... You really are coming along well, Mikotoba. You are correct; I believe that this drug, whatever it is, is a dangerous one. It has not been properly tested... Although, I suppose this sounds hypocritical of me. What man am I to stop another from taking something like that?"

"It's like you said - it's dangerous, and hasn't been properly tested," Yujin pointed out, "Who's to say what more side effects are out there? What if he overindulges? I've... seen you at your worst, Sholmes. I don't wish that on anyone else. But if you believe this drug that he's taking is even more dangerous than-"

"I'll give him a chance," Herlock muttered, "He's not due to take another sample until next Tuesday. We'll head down to Camford on that day to see if he does. I... will be forced to intervene if so. His creeping manner has already terrified his daughter and Mr Bennett; I can hardly believe that they'd want to stay near him for any longer."

"Next Tuesday, hm? We'll just have to wait until then," Yujin got up out of his seat and sat on the armrest of Herlock's seat. There was something else he wanted to ask him; perhaps it would help him take his mind off of the case. "We could've told Genshin about us, you know. I'm sure he'd understand."

Herlock lit his pipe and avoided Yujin's gaze. "Mm? Is that so?"

Yujin leaned over and planted a kiss on his cheek. "For a great detective, you're awfully shy."

His partner muttered some quiet retort and sank back in his chair, his cheeks a furious red.

----

Once again, they were on the train to Camford. Yujin was far too worried to enjoy the scenery. Once the train started to move, Herlock pulled out a letter from his pocket and scanned the text. The tension was almost unbearable.

"A report from Mr Bennett," said Herlock, "It seems that the Professor has returned to his usual self, par some odd fits here and there. He also notes that the man has more energy and vitality than he can ever remember."

"Very odd for a man in his sixties," Yujin crossed his arms and leaned back in his seat. "With the health scare, he should be doing the opposite."

"He's certainly not the same man," Herlock agreed, "Even Mr Bennett says so. I can only hope that no more unusual side effects present themselves in the meantime. It's funny, isn't it? Medical advancements have led to life expectancy increasing and infant mortality rates declining. It's only a matter of time before a wonder drug is found. Yet..."

"Untested and dangerous drugs such as this one aren't the answer," Yujin muttered, "It's causing more harm than good. I wonder if the inventor ever considered the harmful effects on the Professor, or the people around him?"

"The testing stage is flawed, yes," Herlock let out a brief sigh. "I do wish medical advancements didn't have to result in the sacrifice of others. What price do we have to pay for the next wonder drug? Did the Professor even know what he was getting into? Was he told that there might be adverse effects? The more I think about this problem, the more it annoys me."

Yujin tried to force a smile, but found himself unable to. The topic was awfully depressing. "I hope we can find out who the inventor of this drug is. They should know that their drug is too dangerous for human consumption."

"Don't worry - I intent to put a stop to it, Mikotoba," Herlock said harshly, "I have seen for myself the worst that can happen. This may not be a legal wrong, but I refuse to wait until the law changes regarding matters such as this."

"I never thought you'd be so worked up over this matter. You've... changed."

"I merely don't wish to see someone ruin their life over a dangerous, untested drug," Herlock straightened his tie, a stern look in his eyes. "If this was one that I was used to, then I wouldn't be as worried as I am right now. I'd know how to deal with it. Currently, everything hinges on what observations we make tonight."

That evening, Mr Bennett met the two nearby the Professor's home, away from his prying eyes. His state of worry had worsened since they last saw him, despite previously telling that the Professor seemed to have gotten better. Yujin had purchased coffee for them all; it was going to be a long night.

"He has heard from his London correspondent today," Mr Bennett informed them, "There was a letter and a small packet, each with a cross under the stamp which warned me not to touch them. There has been nothing else."

"I see," Herlock had taken to his pipe again in an effort to calm his nerves. "I think we shall come to a conclusion tonight. We will need to observe the Professor before we can intervene. Remain awake and on the lookout, Mr Bennett. Should you hear him pass by your door, do not interrupt him, but follow him as discreetly as you can. Dr Mikotoba and I will be nearby. One more thing - where is the key of the box you spoke of previously?"

Mr Bennett seemed surprised at the question. "I believe the Professor keeps it on himself. I was unable to even take a peek at the box - he locked himself in his room when the letter arrived."

"If we cannot grab the key, then I could always find a workaround," Herlock smirked in Yujin's direction. "I can break a lock in under a minute, can I not, Mikotoba?"

"I'd rather you not break someone's property, Sholmes," said Yujin, "But I suppose desperate times do call for desperate measures. We'll keep an eye out, Mr Bennett; don't worry."

It was nearly midnight when they took their place among some bushes opposite the hall door of the Professor. It was a fine night, but chilly. There was a breeze, and clouds swirled across the sky, obscuring the moon from time to time.

"If the cycle of nine days holds true, then we shall see the Professor at his worst tonight, if he has indeed taken the drug," Herlock whispered to him, "The fact that these strange symptoms began after his visit to Prague, that he is in secret correspondence with Dorak, who presumably represents someone in Prague, and that he received a package from him today, all point in one direction."

"We still have no idea about what he takes or why he takes it," Yujin pointed out, "All we know is- Ah, look! It's him!"

Sure enough, the hall door slowly opened, and the tall figure of Professor Presbury emerged, clad in a dressing-gown. He stepped forwards onto the drive, turning back to face the house. It was then that Yujin noticed a stray kite, caught on the creeper, about halfway up.

With no hesitation, the Professor sprang upwards and began to climb the creeper with little to no sense of the dangers. With incredible agility, he ascended to where the kite was and freed it from the creeper's grasp. Yujin could only stare in amazement at the sight of an old man scaling the building with ease.

The kite now in his hand, the Professor climbed back down and set it to one side. He disappeared round the side of the house, which prompted the two of them to chase after him. At the same time, Mr Bennett emerged from the house, following the two close behind.

Herlock muttered a curse under his breath as they caught up to the Professor. They crouched beneath another pair of bushes, keeping a watchful eye on the man. "It seems we're too late to stop him - he's already taken it," Herlock muttered in distain, his eyes studying the scene before them closely.

The Professor moved towards the stables, where his faithful wolfhound was tied up. The dog began to bark furiously, becoming more excited than ever when he caught sight of someone else. He was straining on its chain, quivering with eagerness.

"Don't you want to go on a walk, Roy?" Professor Presbury asked his canine companion, walking up to him with a grin. "When was the last time I was well enough to take you on a walk, hm?"

The dog's eager face changed to one of anger. Roy's barking grew worse; he could no longer recognise the man in front of him as his master. He continued to pull and pull on the chain; the wooden stick holding it down began to rise from the dirt.

Herlock's eyes widened. In an instant, he knew what was going to happen. Ignoring his previous advice, he ran out towards the Professor, surprising both Yujin and Mr Bennett. "Stop! Get away from the dog!" He cried, "Don't you see? He no longer recognises you! He knows something is wrong!"

Professor Presbury turned to Herlock, rage overwhelming him. "What are you doing here?! This is private property! Leave, before I summon the police!"

Yujin and Mr Bennett chased after Herlock, coming to a stop just behind him. They were both out of breath; they weren't expecting this sudden commotion. The dog continued to bark furiously, focused entirely on the Professor.

"W-We have all noticed it, Professor," gasped Mr Bennett, "Even Roy has. You are no longer acting like an elderly gentleman - what sort of man is able to climb with such great strength?"

"You have no right to intervene," Professor Presbury spat. Ignoring their warnings, he approached his dog, extending out a hand.

"Wait - the chain isn't secure!" Herlock exclaimed, rushing towards him.

However, it was too late. In an instant, the wooden stick that was holding Roy down sprang from the dirt, setting the canine free. Roy charged towards the Professor and leapt at him; he no longer saw the kind master he had been before, but rather, he saw him as a stranger. A stranger that was a threat to his home.

"Quickly, tear them apart!" Yujin commanded, grabbing ahold of the Professor's arm to pull him away. A mixture of snarls and screams echoed in his ears.

Mr Bennett grabbed the dog's collar and pulled him away. He petted the wolfhound, attempting to soothe him. "Roy, listen to me, it's alright. Don't be afraid, he wasn't going to harm anyone..."

The dog had bitten the Professor's neck in the struggle. Mr Bennett quickly secured Roy before helping the two carry the Professor up to his room. He was unconscious, but still breathing. Luckily, Mr Bennett had some medical experience, and was able to assist Yujin in dressing his wound. The sharp teeth had passed dangerously close to an artery.

Half an hour later, they had managed to stabilise him. "I still think he should see someone," Yujin muttered, wiping his hands free of blood. "He still has yet to come round. We can only do so much, with what limited medical supplies-"

"And risk a scandal?" Mr Bennett hissed at him, "In the morning, I'll send for someone that I can trust with keeping this hidden, if needed. I will monitor him in the meantime. Between the two of us, Dr Mikotoba, we have kept this man stable."

Herlock had remained quiet. He stood glaring at the box - the one Mr Bennett had spoken of earlier.

Professor Presbury came round, and immediately glanced toward the box. "You... wish to see it, do you? The scientific marvel?" He croaked.

"If you would allow me to," Herlock replied, his gaze a serious one. "I wish to know what sort of dangerous drug you have been taking that caused this mess."

The Professor allowed Mr Bennett to take the key from him and open the box. Inside was an empty phial, a hypodermic syringe, and several letters in messy hand. The envelopes had a cross below the stamp, and they were each signed 'A. Dorak'. They were invoices detailing how a new bottle would be sent, or receipts in acknowledgement of money. There was another envelope, however, which stood out from the others. The writing was far neater, and it bore the postmark of Prague. Herlock opened the letter and scanned the text:

'Honoured colleague,

Since your esteemed visit, I have thought much of your case, and though in your circumstances there are some special reasons for the treatment (and for a sense of urgency), I would nonetheless proceed with caution. My results have shown that there is an aspect of danger.

The current serum should give you your energy back, so to speak. It will enhance your strength like never before. Certainly, you'll show no signs of old age. Your health will improve significantly. You'll feel like a new man.

I beg you to take every possible precaution to keep this medical marvel a secret. I have one other client in England, and Dorak is my agent for both.

Yours with high esteem,

H. Lowenstein'

"Lowenstein," Mr Bennett repeated, "Why does that name sound familiar?"

"I remember seeing his name in the paper. Lowenstein has spent his life researching a way to create the elixir of life - the secret to immortality," Herlock explained, "In the process, he managed to create a strength-giving serum, but he was tabooed by the profession because he refused to reveal its source."

"I thought the man had all but given up attempting to create it," Yujin frowned, recalling the very article himself. "This must be the serum he spoke of."

"When I read that article, I knew that I had to have it," Professor Presbury muttered, "I had all the money in the world. Yet, I could not conquer death - the health scare reminded me of how little time I had left. I wasn't prepared to slow down just yet. My mind is still strong, yet my feeble body had wounded me."

"So, you wrote to Lowenstein and requested to try out his serum," said Herlock, "It gave you great strength - but your dog knew that something was wrong. You were not the same man that you once were."

"You don't understand - this serum gave me energy like never before!" Professor Presbury exclaimed, "You can't take it from me. Look at what I was able to do! What man can climb to the top of his own home and back down again? I needed to test my strength somehow - I thought that climbing would do the trick. I even thought that I'd be able to walk Roy again."

"Yet, in the process, you became distant from your family," Yujin pointed out, "Mr Bennett and your daughter became sick with worry. They were afraid of what was happening to you. Even your own dog refused to be around you."

"You also have no idea what's in the drug," Herlock continued, "Sure, the immediate effects may be good, but who's to say what will happen if you take it for an extended period? It may decrease your time here. Experimental drugs such as this often end badly. Death always catches up to us, Professor. It would do you no good to try and beat nature like this."

Mr Bennett nodded along. "I agree, Professor. Ageing is a natural part of life, isn't it? If you continue to push yourself, you'll only suffer more. I'm sure it's also natural to think such dark thoughts - but in the process of trying to extend your life, you have only pushed me and Edith away."

Professor Presbury hesitated for a moment. "I... I'm not sure I can go on without it."

"I have experienced the same feeling," Herlock admitted, "Luckily, I have had Mikotoba near me to help me through it. I would highly recommend you stop this now - your body may be building a resistance to the drug. In turn, you'll have to take a higher dose-"

"Alright, I'll stop! Enough, Mr Sholmes!" Professor Presbury roared before settling back down. "I can see that you've experienced something similar. I saw the look in your eyes when you saw the needle."

Mr Bennett cleared his throat awkwardly. "I'll take care of the Professor whilst he recovers," he said, "Don't worry about him. We'll get through this. Although, I worry for everyone else taking the drug. We have already seen what it has done to the Professor."

"Not to worry," Herlock flashed a sly smile, "I can take care of that. I believe I have a way with words that oft leads to people seeing things my way. Come along, Mikotoba. I'm sure you can assist me."

----

It was early morning by the time they got back to Baker Street. They had taken a nap whilst waiting for the train, but Yujin still felt like he could sleep forever. His partner, however, was as lively as always. He had no idea where he got the energy from.

"You can't involve the police," Yujin mumbled as he flopped down onto his seat, utterly exhausted. His partner had remained silent the entire journey back - this was his attempt to get him to talk again. "You know as well as I do that it isn't-"

"I'm going to write Lowenstein a letter," Herlock replied, sitting opposite. "I know; what can a letter do? But, like I said, he has a way with words. He needs to know the danger his drug has caused, being released into society. I plan on sending him the full details, and my own personal thoughts. He is still a scientist at heart; perhaps he will take everything into consideration before handing out such a dangerous drug."

"Others may find a way," Yujin frowned, "Immortality... I can hardly imagine it. Will there ever be a time when we create such a serum?"

"Then there would be a very real danger to humanity," Herlock sat back and lit his pipe. "Consider if everyone woke up one day and realised that they were unable to die. Society would break down. Overpopulation, Mikotoba - not to mention that we only have a finite amount of resources. What sort of place would our world become? I think you would find immortality incredibly boring and monotonous. You'd quickly run out of things to do-"

Yujin cut him off. "You wouldn't want to do this forever?"

Herlock put down his pipe and smiled. He chuckled to himself, staying silent for a moment. "I believe we owe Mr Asogi a proper dinner invitation. I trust you'll be able to handle it?"

In his heart, Yujin knew that he was changing the subject to avoid answering his question. He let him do so. "Does this mean you might come round to the idea of telling someone about our...?"

"Y-You're bringing this up again?" Herlock stuttered in a flush. "Listen, Yujin, I... I just wish to keep it to ourselves for now. I find it... I find it more special that way."

"Of course," replied Yujin, his heart full of love. "Whenever you're ready, Herlock."