Triple Challenge! This is a 221B poem that switches between POVs, but can be read starting with either Holmes or Watson. Lovely right? Too much time on my hands…

I am startled awake with his panicked cry

His soft sobs reach me as I rise

Once again old ghosts haunt his sleeping

He needs me there to comfort his weeping

I make for the steps, he calls out once more

I see his face twisted in distress as I open his door

I move to his beside, a hand on his shoulder

When he shrinks away the night grows colder

I whisper his name, but he doesn't seem to hear

And my shaking doesn't wake him from his fear


It's a desperate pursuit that I have seen before

But I cannot remember what the chase was for

The man, our quarry, is not far ahead

He's tried several tricks wanting us falsely led

But we are drawing near and he won't get away

Suddenly he turns and fires; darkness covers day

I don't feel pain, but hear my companion fall

I hurry over, wishing I could undo it all

Time stands still, but his life fades fast

I cannot breath or move as I hear his final gasps


I resort to water and he awakes; I offer an open ear

As he admits the reason for his distress and fear.


He tells me to sleep and protests don't mar my obedience

But before I drift I'm grateful for his benevolence