Chapter II
The streets of Westminster were chillier than those of his natal city. He has yet to get accustomed to the weather, although his long winter coat was fighting the unpleasantness fairly. Nonetheless, the cold air was nothing but a triviality compared to what awaited for him at the other side of the street.
After an exhausting day at work, Finley felt tension disappearing from his body, and a big smile drawing on his features. He deeply inhaled, loving the smell of this place. He was at home. Oh, how he loved libraries. Was there any other place on Earth cozier than this one? He doubted it.
The young inspector moved through the building with the same familiarity and easiness as if it were his own house. And soon he went exactly where he wanted to go the most, the literature section. Books from every year, every author, national or foreigner, everything he could find, he read it. It was his biggest passion and he was about to indulge in his favorite activity, until-
Fancy meeting you here, Loughty. The most horrendous sound of the world reached his eardrums. Is it that you read books? I've never noticed.
Mr. Walker. His voice exposed his unpleasantness, although he was not worried since the man himself was under the impression that the unamused tone he used with him alone was his normal tone of voice.
Then again, this place suits you, Loughty. Lonely, dusty, only visited by old ladies in need for some entertainment. Haha, yes, it fits you.
Harry never ceased to amaze him by how much he could loath him; that required talent since he was a very tolerant man. And yet every time they met, Finley despised him a little more.
And you can imagine my surprise to find you in such an UNfitting place for YOU, Mr. Walker. The shorter gentleman hissed with a smile, knowing the officer wouldn't detect his insult. What brought you here?
Oh, my wifie. She'd asked me if I could borrow a book for her after work. He rolled his eyes. I don't understand what's so great about them.
Of course you don't. He thought.
Anyway, since you're here, how about helping me find this book? I cannot wait to leave this gloomy place.
And just like that, his resent increased under the fake smile he flashed at the nuisance.
Nothing more would he love than to get rid of this excuse of an officer. And so, Finley helped. Since he knew the building like the palm of his hand, he did not suffer from overexposure to Walker's idiocy. And deep down he felt good to help his wife, a literature lover like him, although it made him pity her more for being tied to this buffoon.
Well, Loughty, you have my thanks. The older man patted his shoulder with more strength than needed, not that touching was needed at all.
Finley cleaned his shoulder with a grimace. Think nothing of it.
Have a good time, then. Well, if it is possible in this place.
And his hatred increased again.
Oh! I almost forgot. Walker gave him no sweet relief from his presence. You have night shift.
Finley's eyes widened by the announcement. What?
Yes, it was a last-minute-decision.
The inspector couldn't believe his ears. But I'm not an officer. We don't do nightly rounds. He reproached.Who'd I be replacing, anyway?
Oh, that would be me.
And the scale kept moving upwards.
You see, today is my anniversary and I asked the boss to give me a free night. Don't worry, you can stay here fooling around until 9 P.M, that's when your shift starts. Until dawn, obviously. He causally commented before leaving him dumbfound.
There was no mistake; he was destined to despise that ape.
That simpleton's ruined his nice interim before going home and made him lost his interest to submerge in the literary world, something he had never thought possible. But it was futile to force himself, he decided to quit. He was now putting the books he borrowed back on their shelves, grumbling to himself.
May I impose?
The voice of a young lady snapped him from his resentful dream.
Finley blinked when he met the extraordinary eyes he met on his office earlier. Why, Miss Crimson.
The fair lady stared at him with her strange eyes and the same witty smile she had before leaving his office.
It seems your night plans were ruined, detective. Her soft voice announced.
He was so balled he splutter. H-How do you-?
But she only tapped her ear.
Right.
He was starting to question the volume of his voice. Was it that high? He'll have to be careful in libraries, that'd be rude.
Well, I didn't approach you to eavesdrop. She explained.It was simply to give you this.
Right before his eyes, she offered him his white handkerchief. Oh my. I completely forgot about it. Thank you for consideration. But how did you find me? Please don't tell me you were searching for me in a city you don't know.
Worry not. It was quite easy. She sneered, for some reason tapping her nose. He didn't get that, but soon she added. Also, you're still wearing your uniform.
He looked down and laughed at the sight of his dark blue uniform underneath his gray coat. Maybe the most notorious item was his round hat. Well, I guess we were lucky to meet here, what a coincidence.
I'm sure you think that way. She replied cryptically.
He never fully understood what she was saying. So, have you visited the detective I recommended? He changed the subject.
No. She announced calmly.
Finley smiled, hiding his surprise. The awkward man felt this faculty of his to increase whenever he was near her. … is there any reason-
Do you enjoy reading, detective? She changed the subject.
He wanted to correct the tittle she's been calling him, but he was more eager to satisfy her curiosity. Absolutely, Miss. He proudly announced. I've always loved reading. He beamed, barely containing his excitement. In fact, I became a crime investigator because of it. He started to overshare.
He knew himself too well and realized the signs of his body, the beaming form of his lips, the light appearing his brown eyes, his impatient feet barely containing his excitement. He was about to show a side of himself many have reproach before for his "overmotiovation" and exposure. It was wise to stop soon before he got carried away.
Back in my office you said you 'lost the trace' of the murderer. There was no turning back. I must say you almost sound like a professional.
I guarantee you I am not. Her monotone voice interjected.
His fingers were incessantly active folding and unfolding the cloth in his hands. He was about to do it.
Could it be, Miss Crimson, that you're a fellow detective novels' reader? He finally asked with the same inquiry of a child. His eyes could not be any more shining.
…Yeah, you could say so. She answered indifferently.
But the detective paid no mind to the female's lack of enthusiasm in her response and flashed an amused expression. Well, it's always wonderful to meet other sympathizers. It's such a thrilling genre, isn't it? I dare to say there's nothing more intriguing and fascinating as solving crimes and puzzles. Not to mention the satisfaction of discovering who was the culprit. Oh, memories of Wilkie Collins' "The woman in white" are flowing through my mind. That was the masterpiece that immersed me in this literary world and shaped my tastes for solving crimes. Oh, but if we are talking about masterpieces, then I'm compelled to focus my attention on the greatest character ever created. Have you already read "A study in Scarlet"? I must say that gentleman Doyle has captured the essence of the genre masterfully. I consider myself an ardent admirer of his work, and he has only published one novel. As a matter of fact, I possess a first edition of said book. I can feel he has a bright future ahead of himself. But what about you, Miss Crimson? May I ask who is your favorite author?
… Perhaps on another occasion, detective. She swiftly cut off the excitement in the young man's eyes.
Having realized how overly excited he was getting, the gentleman stepped back since he had moved himself closer than any gentleman should be. His cheeks got warm for his blunder, and decided to occupy his attention by flattening the flaps of his suit to recomposed himself. Why, of course. I was getting ahead of myself. Excuse me, Miss Crimson.
She said nothing, instead she started moving towards the exit. Well, I already got what I wanted. She smirked contently. It's getting late, so I better leave. Her red cape moved like a spirit with every step, catching his attention.
Having quitted his reading for the day, the young man offered himself to escort her. Please, allow me, Miss, as a way to thank you for your consideration. He held his handkerchief.
At first, she declined his kind offer, but he persuaded her after warning about the dangers of the dark streets. There was still time before 9 P.M. so there would be no inconvenience. He was an uniformed inspector so there would be no misinterpretations by people.
The walk was cold thanks to the season, but pleasant thanks to his unusual companion. Finley took the liberty to satisfy his curiosity and exchange a little of their different cultures. So, Miss, is this your first time visiting the city?
It is. She nodded very agreeable.
Well, what are your thoughts about it?
In that moment she looked at him with furrow eyebrows. It's noisy. She complained. There's not enough green, the air seems polluted. Not to mention that persistent stink. She covered her nose with her cloak. The first time I took a whiff it hurt my nose. It was like a safe has been broken, as she continued listing the flaws she perceived. There's a lot of people, too many for my liking. She grimaced. The buildings seem to hold more people than they can, so I bet the rooms must be small and probably dirty. She adverted her eyes in disgust. Overall, I don't find anything good about it.
The young man blinked in silence unable to form any response to her strong opinions and accurate descriptions, specially as a city boy. W-Well, I guess that's part of the charm, haha… He awkwardly ease the atmosphere, but to his dismay, she didn't laugh.
City people have weird tastes. She murmured.
I take the country is more of your liking. He tried to save their conversation.
It is much more peaceful and comfortable, yes.
I've never been there. How is your town, Miss? He curiously asked.
But she gave no answer. If you want to know how the countryside looks like, you should come with me, detective.
If he hadn't known the context behind her words, that would have sounded very compromising.
She silenced after, but when he asked about the address of her stay, she left him baffled.
What do you mean you haven't look for a place to stay?
As always, she seemed unbothered and calm. I've never planned on doing that. My plan was to get a detective and bring him to my home within the same day.
Finley didn't believe his ears. That was utterly foolish even for a country woman. Was there a reason for this impertinence? Was her budget so thight she couldn't afford a room? That was the only logical reason he could find, but to confirm his suspicions would be impolite. This was no small matter; an infamous serial killer was on the loose. He couldn't let a young woman alone in a city she didn't know. But how could he persuade her to be safe if she had no intention of renting a room? The only place he knew where she could stay for free was his own room, but that was absolutely out of question; a young lady who wasn't his wife or relative in his home would be damaging for both, and he was a gentleman first and foremost.
Is something wrong? Her incredulous voice called, although once he looked at her, she didn't look particularly ignorant.
Well, Miss. I was thinking if you'll be fine on your own if you don't have a place to stay. He confessed his worry.
As a response he got her genuine surprise. Are you inviting me to your house, detective? She blinked.
He furiously blushed as a hot steam and almost trip on his own feet. A-Absolutely NO, Miss! He shakily fixed his hat, spectacles and coat all at once. P-Please forgive my speech for causing this misunderstanding! I'd never dare to offend a lady with that ungentlemanly transgression!
The young man was desperate to amend his mistake even if he had to stammer and look like a tomato. On the other hand, the young lady offered a small smirk. The mistake was mine, detective. There's no need to apologize.
Finley used his handkerchief to cover his flushed face for a second to catch his breath. Even if she was a person he would never see again, it was embarrassing to make a fool of himself in front of her. But their walk was to cut short before he could persuade her to find a safe place. It was still early for his nightshift, so he offered to introduce her to the detective he suggested, but she politely declined his offer.
You're most kind, detective. But there's no need to worry for my safety or my stay. She confidently reassured him with a dim smile.
He could not tell if she was being overconfident or ignorant; at the end he failed to convince her. But that didn't stop him from warning her about the dangers of the night and the menacing man roaming the streets. However, she just smiled and watched at the sky.
You'll have the immensity of the night firmament for yourself. Her fair profile was lighted by the street lights which were starting to shine. Then she looked at him. We're expecting full moon tonight, detective, be sure to contemplate it. Those were her parting words.
Nightshift was the worst possible job a person could have. Finley was aware there were worse jobs out there, but he was too upset to focus on his good fortune of being what he wanted because he was currently doing something he was not hired to do. That stupid Harry Walker. It was his fault that he was walking aimlessly in the dark, empty streets. And while he was hugging his own cold body, the nasty man was probably hugging his wife's.
A big yawn echoed in the empty neighborhood. Being too tired, he forgot to cover his mouth, but no one could reprehend him for he was alone, obviously. Everyone was sleeping, the young rascals were soon gone before the early hours and even the drunks found their unsteady way back home. If the scenery were something to behold, he would at least, find this experience fructiferous. But he was an unfortunate fellow and the place he was watching over was one of the most unappealing and unaffluent locations in Great London. He could not wait to see the sun again to stop this useless walk. Only one hour left.
For his own sanity, he decided to stop focusing on his rage and do something else. His brown eyes wandered to the dark sky, cloudy and misty; he remembered the strange words of the country woman he met today and thought about her. What an atypical lady she was, a freak, if she weren't so beautiful, although her eyes would probably discomfort most people. Finley sighed. How would she be right now? He couldn't stop thinking about her well being; it was a product of his job. He always worried about the defenseless, and she was a girl from out-of-town, an easy victim to the lower type of people. She had already suffered enough with her loss and her long travel, at least he prayed she had met the detective and went back home.
You're not from this town, right, sweety?
Far away, in the block around the corner, he heard some mumble, but he was sure they belong to men. The shadows casted by the street lights gave away their number, three. The inspector moved closer, trying to not alarm them. If there was nothing unusual, he'll let them be. But he had a bad feeling.
Stuck to the wall, he spied and his eyes widened at the sight of the long red cloak he had met. It was exactly what he feared. Those fiends were grabbing her arm and getting too close. What was she doing here still?! Magically sensing his presence, she turned her face at him, or maybe at his general direction; there was no way she could know he was there. But that didn't matter because she pushed the one grabbing her and sprinted. As expected, they followed her, and so did he.
Finley was getting nervous; he was not trained for this. Inspectors didn't get into action. He's never fought before! And now he was chasing three men when he's never been a good runner. His calves were burning, his heart was pumping, his spectacles were falling off their place, his breath was uneven, oh he was so unfit. But the only thing pushing him forward was his unbreakable sense of justice, and for his name he swore he'll not let that young woman get hurt. The only obstacle, however, was his target getting farther and farther away from him.
Finley was amazed at their speed, specifically, hers. The red cape seemed to fly away from them, making the vile trio fall behind as much as him. Were all country women like that, or he was that unshaped?
With his shaking knees, he reached the group, which was unaware of him thanks to their distance gap. Finley took a brief moment to catch his breath, his eyes examining the building in front of him. It was an old church that was caught in a fire some years ago, now abandoned. In fact, the neighborhood was desolated due to the same reason. It was still too early to find other officers in case he needed backup, so he was positively on his own. Thank heavens they gave him a baton for his guarding; that increased his chances to win.
He was unsure about how to proceed but the lady inside that building was in danger, so he straightened his posture and walked inside. It was an obscure place, street lights barely help to see, so he was to step with precaution. Being quiet and undetected was his best opportunity to rescue her without conflict, but it was a tough task given the mountains of debris by his feet. Finley stood in the middle of the long hall so that he could adjust his eyes and hear where they were, and soon he did. He heard noises coming from upstairs. The grip in his baton tightened. He wished not to fight, but if he must, then he will obligated.
But suddenly something unusual happened. Two figures past right before him and exited the building shouting and weeping. The inspector was awestricken and severely confused. That was when he heard screams intensifying in volume and forgot about his surprise attack to rescue the victim. He prayed she was unharmed, he prayed he wasn't late.
When he reached the top floor, the dark turned into clarity; the broken roof provided light for that the clouds disappeared and the moon was acting like a candle. In the distance he found her, her red cape in full display with its back at him, and from the very same place the agonizing screams echoed. Although they sound nothing like a woman's cry, and the red figure was on top of the victimizer, so Finley was certainly confused and terrified.
A chill ran down his spine, there was something abnormal and sinister, something that froze his feet to the ground. The screams continued and he felt he ought to act, so he pushed his body and called out. M-Miss Crimson? Curse his stuttering.
The red figure stopped what it was doing and turned around, that gave the victimizer time to escape and him reasons to froze again. Finley didn't feel the aggressor running past him; he was in shock with the scene.
A wolf.
A black wolf was in front of him. He didn't believe his eyes, he was too tired and sleep deprived, maybe he was dreaming. But no matter how many times he rubbed his eyes, the creature did not disappear. He understood nothing. How? Where did it come from? A wolf in the city? Inside a church? And what was HE doing observing the wild animal who just viciously attacked a man? He must ran from there. And Miss Crimson…
Miss Crimson!
Finley noticed horrified how the beast was wearing the red cloak over its head and felt how blood was drained from his face. Where was the young lady? Did that wolf-
No. He refused to accept that. The inspector turned around and ran downstairs shouting her name. Miss Crimson! Please answer, Miss Crimson!
He closed his eyes when thoughts about her poor body laying around lifeless appeared in his mind. No. She was just a woman and she already lost someone. Not to mention she was attacked by one of those beasts short ago. Please, don't let something so cruel happen to her again!
His exhausted body inspected every nook and cranny, dodging broken furniture, debris and shattered glass, but he found no one. To make matters worse, he heard the sound of paws right behind him; it was following him! Every single sense of his were telling him to run away, but his morality forbade him to abandon the poor lady. Finley took his second air, prepared to save her, but the wild animal jumped in front of him, blocking his way.
He stepped back, miraculously. It was hard to see in the dark, but the paralyzing fear which forced him to keep still allowed him to admire the imposing form of the tenebrous creature. Its fur, black as the look of an abyss, thick and unruly. The long red cape still hanging from its back and its ears were popping out. His heart leaped into his throat at the sight of its intense blue eyes. Not only were they frightening as they were looking at him obsessively, but they were also terrifyingly similar to those he met in his office.
At that moment, his blood froze because he couldn't conceive their uncanny similarity. He had only met one person in his life with crimson eyeballs, and as little as he had seen them, he could never mistake them. The young inspector tried to reach out his hand at the menace without thinking, feeling inexplicably sure he was going to be fine. But he found out quickly that he was mistaken as the wolf showed its fangs in a fail bite.
He withdrew and observed with trembling limbs how it growled and walked towards him before it started chasing him again. He ran away, stumbling on every obstacle and almost falling. He tried to trick it and take it out of the church so he could continue his search, but the monster was cunning and blocked his way, almost anticipating his plan. Instead, he was forced to run upstairs again to save his life.
By the time he reached the top floor, he tripped and fell on a pile of debris at the end of the room. The early obscure scenery, was now turning lighter and illuminating everything through the hole on the roof. Finley was cornered like a poor bunny, and soon the carnivorous critter climbed the last steps and stared at him in peace again. His life was so miserable even animals mocked him. Finely was unsure if he was going to die or if there was a ray of hope waiting from him, maybe from that pinky dawn.
The creature's paws made the softest of echoes as it reduced their distance, and although he wished to keep fighting, he was too fixed in the mystical being. There was something hypnotic about the way it moved, the way it looked, the way it stared at him. Calm, controlled, smart, confident. Even if he was about to find his perish, he was not afraid of it anymore because under the precocious sunbeams, the beast looked beautiful.
When it got to the top of the small mountain of dirt in front of him, however, it stopped to look at the sky, the hood falling behind. Finley was fatigued, staring at it from bellow the same pile. And his eyes observed the glowing effect on the dark fur, product of the sun, or so he thought since he was in no good shape to judge. His mind was playing tricks with him, he was certain, because there was no way the quadruped was turning into an anthropomorphic being.
He must have hit his head, or maybe the wolf attacked him and he was hallucinating, he guessed, because there was no way the anthropomorphic being was turning into a young woman.
His spectacles might have broken in the persecution, he was... lying, because there was no way the young woman was- was-
Well, that was an unforgettable experience, wasn't it, detective?
What used to be paws started walking down the mountain in two long legs.
But it wasn't part of my plan to tell you this way. In fact, I wish I haven't being forced to show you that.
The red cape rippled with the wind.
Like I said before, the original idea was to convince a detective to come with me within the same day.
Her feminine voice carried confidence and authority.
You have to admit I TRIED the civilized way, but since you refused me, I'll do it MY way.
Her pale feet reached the bottom of the mountain and stopped right in front of him, watching from above.
I've already wasted enough time, so from now on, you'll be my private detective. I hope we can work fine, Mr. Loughty. She sneered.
His mind was spinning, body trembling, ears registered no sound, lips agape, blood rushed to his head. His brain couldn't process what he was seeing. It was unimaginable, something he should never have witnessed, but he did, it was right in front of him. The wolf who had just turned into a woman, Miss Scarlett Crimson was only wearing a red cape.
Finley soon met the limit of his stamina as he had successfully fainted.