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An image of white marble had entered the consulting room of 221B Baker Street, London. Before Mr. Sherlock Holmes stood an albino. The man's bleached white hair and pale complexion glistened as the morning sun streamed through the glass windows. He was immaculately dressed in formal evening clothes. And as he took off his top hat, unbelievably lite crimsoned colored eyes were revealed.
"To what do I owe this visit Monsieur Zenith?" the detective signed him to a seat.
"Mr. Holmes, you know of me?" the man obliged and sat opposite his host.
"Yes. You are a son of the great Professor Jareth Nikola - a highly acclaimed expert of the human anatomy. You studied in Oxford University and became one of its most outstanding students." Mr. Holmes paused "Am I boring you?"
"No. Please, go on." assured Monsieur Zenith nonchalantly.
"You are well versed in the subjects of chemistry, botany, human anatomy, and astrology. According to my sources, you are one of the city's infamous criminals. And is the second dangerous man in London. The first I am referring to is your senior brother, Doctor Nikola."
"I bow to you, Mr. Holmes. Indeed what I heard of you is true." the visitor applauded.
"But surely, you have not come here to confirm the rumors about me. Perhaps, your intention is to dispose of me. To prevent the rescue of my sister from Doctor Nikola's clutches." asked Sherlock Holmes.
"You misjudged me, Sir. Please, be reassured. I am not here to DISPOSE of you." replied the albino. "I will not interfere with your war with Gaelen. But I am concern for Ms. Holmes' future."
At the mention of his sister, there was a subtle reaction on Mr. Holmes face
"Oh, do not misunderstand me. Gaelen will not harm her. But Ms. Holmes will not be happy with him. And this I cannot allow." proclaimed Monsieur Zenith.
"I do not want to appear inquisitive. But why is it a concern of yours for my sister's happiness." he asked.
"Ms. Holmes has shown me the greatest kindness of all. She did not care of my abnormality; and had honored me with her friendship. This means a great deal to me."
"I see." acknowledged Mr. Holmes.
He was not at all surprise at Monsieur Zenith's testimony. Being the youngest of the three siblings, Amalthea Holmes was unique from Mycroft and Sherlock. Both men displayed restrained characters and reticence to socialize with the normal human populace. While Ms. Holmes was a sweet soul that embraced the challenges and politics of London's diverse social circles. She was not only a beauty but equaled her brothers' intelligence.
The young woman was also a great musical artist in her own right. Ms. Holmes had recently become a respectable rising opera singer and actress in England. And had been proclaimed the successor to Sarah Siddons as the great new tragedian. It was in her first performance in London's Royal Opera House that she had caught the eyes of Doctor Nikola.
"I do not know what had passed between Gaelen and Ms. Holmes these two days passed. But I do know where he is holding her. The Phoenix's Nest at the outskirts of London is where you will find them. I do warn you. The house will be well guarded. Gaelen will prevent anyone from taking the most precious thing in his life."
The albino slowly rose from his seat and moved towards the door. He turned to Mr. Holmes and said "I must leave you now. Time is short."
"I am grateful for your help, Monsieur Zenith. Someday I will find a way to repay you." replied the detective.
"No payment is necessary. I trust you will not kill my brother?." he intently watched as the detective nodded in affirmation.
"You must succeed in rescuing her, Mr. Holmes. For there will be no next time." warned Monsieur Zenith grimly.
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