The 12 Christmas Riddles
Chapter 9
A/N – Jessie Blackwood, thank you so much for your feed back, its been really useful, and Mad Squirrel, thank you.
Arriving at Hill's Balloon rides at around 12:30, John and Sherlock found the balloon filled and ready to go.
"Don't these things usually have to have early morning starts?" Sherlock asked
"Usually yes, but the owner is an old army buddy of mine, said he owed me one for stitching him up, and while normally I wouldn't collect as such for doing my duty, I figure just this once it wouldn't hurt, you ready?"
"Yes, yes I am"
John introduced Sherlock to Private Samuels, honorably discharged for losing an arm. The trio boarded the basket and went into lift off.
Sailing over London in the brisk air of a cloudless city, Sherlock let his mind wonder, he had often imagined trying this, but how had John known, not even Mycroft had known about this; so many things about John that he didn't know today. Sherlock always knew, that was his gift and his curse.
Turning his attention to his friend, he watched for a moment as John enjoyed the view.
"Answers John, I need answers, there has been so much in the last 30 hours and I am at a loss. How do you know Mandy, how did you know about the elephants the balloon ride, how are you affording al this, how do you now Private Samuels?"
The aforementioned Private started.
" I can answer one of those question. I know Captain Watson through the army of course, but you knew that. He saved my life; along with countless others. I would have died if Captain Watson hadn't intervened on my behalf, so would a lot of other soldiers. Bravest doctor there is in our opinion, why else would he have a Medal of Honor, an Army Distinguished Service Cross, the Victoria Cross, the Silver Star, Defense Distinguished Service Medal and the Soldiers Medal, the Purple Heart, the Gold Life Saving Medal and numerous others! You've got your self one of the most honorable and trustworthy men on your side Mr. Holmes. He's well missed I should think. We were all sad to hear of his discharge. I personally would have died if Captain Watson had not decided to take the arm and attempt to stop the infection the way he did. Not to mention the fact that he often put himself after everyone else. Best doctor on the field ever. We were all waiting for him to get promoted, and he turned it down when it came, wanted to stay in the field where he was the most use to everyone!"
John was vertically red by now and had his head bowed low.
"Why haven't I seen these medals John, why didn't you tell me?"
Stuttering slightly to start, John mumbled about it not being important and only doing his job.
Samuels pitched in that very few field doctors could wield a gun and that the Captain was a rare find.
Sherlock of course had known that for some time; but for the first time ever he shared that knowledge with John.
"I couldn't agree more Samuels, I should have mentioned it sooner, but I had no idea about his military background. You should display your medals John. And where have you hidden them? I go into your room for thing all the time, I've never seen them!"
John smirked at this
"Found somewhere that even you cannot find Sherlock, as for the rest, I'll explain later, promise, but first we are nearing our next stop, the envelope please, Private."
Handing over the envelope, Sherlock took it, not complaining about not being in the know.
Upon opening it, a ship shaped piece of card was found.
Riddle eight
Of ships and shores
Of treasure and troves
Of cannons and swords
It is for the high seas we go.
You wanted to be one upon growing up,
Well for the next hour, your dream has come true
Find your outfit in the driver's basket.
We've a ship to catch capt'n.
Not so much a rhyme but a warning, no costume equals no ship and no pirates for you.
The balloon landed with a slight bump on the beach, a small tender waiting to take them to the tall ship the lay await of the coast.
Sherlock's face lit with glee, he took the proffered costume and ducked into a near by public bathroom. Emerging he looked so much like an extra from Pirates of the Caribbean that John couldn't help but smirk.
Sherlock grabbed Johns elbow and dragged him towards the tender, he was alike a child at Christmas.
Perfect thought John watching as his friend hopped into the little wooden rowboat (with recently added small outboard motor.)
