THE GREAT MOUSE DETECTIVE 2: A NEW BEGINNING
A "Great Mouse Detective" Fanfiction By The Mouse Avenger
Chapter 8:
Victoria
Sunday, November 1, 1897
(CUE MUSIC: "Pavane For A Dead Princess", by Maurice Ravel)
It was another bright, beautiful day in Mouse London, & the Baker Street Family couldn't help but acknowledge this when they woke up this morning. Instead of having breakfast at their house, Basil decided to treat his loved ones to a very special morning meal...so they took the Mousetro tram to the mouse street of Chic Avenue (known to us humans as Jebb Avenue), scenically located in the South End of Mouse London. Within minutes, the Baker Street Family found themselves in the grand dining hall of the Chez Chic, an elegant French restaurant. The place lived up to its name—it had elegant crystal chandeliers, giant glass windows with large fuschia curtains, marble floors, huge columns & flying buttresses, & tables with mahogany chairs & fancy silk tablecloths. The foods were also very extravagant; the menus boasted such fine items as duck l'orange, escargot, lobster quiche, & strawberry shortcake a la mode (as well as the French's oh-too famous Limburger cheese)—to name just a few of their dishes. Elegant classical music flowed through the restaurant, played by an orchestra stationed at the center of the dining area.
At a very big table, Olivia, Basil, Hiram, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, Fidget, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson (all dressed up for the day in their outing clothes) were seated together, dining on a gourmet breakfast fit for a king. As Basil (seated between Olivia & Hiram) helped himself to a cheese omelet, a pretty mouse lady approached the Baker Street Family's table. The woman was short for a mouse her age, with a slightly-plump, curvaceous figure. She had tan fur (with light-tan markings going all across her muzzle & underbelly) & straight orange-red hair that was graying in a few places (which she kept tied in a bun). Her rounded head had a delicate chin & high cheekbones (which were very wide, & curved at a slight angle). A slightly-prominent pink nose was fixed between her sweet violet eyes with long lashes (topped with thin, angular orange-red eyebrows). A pair of small pink ears flanked either side of her head, & some signs of aging adorned her face. Her short pink tail was of average thickness, & her slim arms & legs ended in small paws & feet. She was dressed in a waitress' outfit, complete with an apron & a name-tag on her blouse-front that said her name: Victoria...
"So, Mr. Holmesington, is there anything else I can get for you or your family?" Victoria asked sweetly, smiling at the Baker Street Family as she stood by their table.
Basil finished the last bite of his cheese omelet, then dabbed at his mouth with a napkin, & turned to face Victoria with a pleasant smile. "Well, if you wouldn't mind, Victoria...I think I could use another cheese omelet," the detective replied. "And, perhaps, the others would like more food, as well."
"All right," Victoria said, nodding her head. The waitress then started walking away from the table, & making her way to the kitchen. "I'll be back shortly with your breakfast," Victoria added while she departed.
As he & the others watched their server leave, Basil stared off after Victoria with a smitten look; it was apparent that he was quite taken by her beauty. Meanwhile, the rest of the Baker Street Family expressed their interest in Victoria through conversation. "I say, Basil, our waitress has provided us with most excellent service for our breakfast today!" Dr. Dawson marveled pleasantly.
"And she looks so beautiful...almost like the Queen herself, when she was a young lassie!" Hiram gushed admiringly.
"Now that you mention it, Hiram, she does look like a familiar face to me..." Mrs. Judson remarked. Stroking her chin thoughtfully, the mousekeeper mused, "Hmm...Victoria...Somehow, it seems as though I've heard that name before..." At this point, Basil's ears perked up, & the detective turned his attention to two well-dressed gentlemice who were seated not too far away from his group, talking with one another over breakfast. As the Baker Street Family silently watched from their table, the debonair duo carried on chatting together. "You know that pretty waitress who works here...what's her name...Victoria?" the first diner asked.
"Yes," the second diner replied, nodding his head. "But what makes you bring her up?"
"Well, have you ever noticed that she looks just like the princess?" inquired the first diner.
"What princess?" the second diner asked, puzzled.
"Princess Victoria, you silly twit!" the first diner answered. "Queen Mousetoria's twin sister!"
"Oh, of course..." the second diner said. "The one who went missing 60 years ago?"
Now filled with deep curiosity, Basil & the others could not help but listen in on the gentlemice's conversation. Meanwhile, the first diner replied, "Yes, the same...And to think that after all these years, Princess Victoria hasn't been found!"
"Well, the princess may be dead, for all we known!" the second diner exclaimed. "Really, how can we tell for certain that she's still 'missing'?"
At this point, Basil & his loved ones turned their attention back to waiting for breakfast, deciding not to eavesdrop any further. Victoria soon came up to bring the Baker Street Family more plates & dishes of food. As she handed our heroes the last of their morning meal, Victoria said pleasantly, "Here you are, everyone. Enjoy your meal." With that, Victoria began walking away from the table...but as she went off to the kitchen, she broke from her cheerful facade, & put her face into her paws, sobbing & crying softly to herself—but not without attempting to dry her eyes with a pawkerchief that had the royal crest on it (a detail that did not escape Basil's notice). Basil & the rest of the Baker Street Family all gazed at the weeping Victoria, watching her with curious & concerned expressions.
"Basil, why is our waitress cryin' all of a sudden?" Hiram inquired inquisitively.
"Oh, Hiram, it's wrong to ask such questions," Dr. Dawson said. "That woman's business is none of our affair."
With a determined look on his face, Basil pushed his breakfast plate aside, & rose to his feet, getting up out of his chair. "Well, I believe it's time we bent the rules a little..." the detective declared.
"What on Earth do you mean, Mr. Basil?" a puzzled Mrs. Judson asked.
"I've got a good feeling in the pit of my gut that our waitress may actually be the missing Princess Victoria," Basil answered.
"What...?" a bewildered Ratigan muttered, not quite sure what Basil was on to.
Basil responded bluntly, "I'll explain later. Come with me, everyone." And, so, the members of the Baker Street Family all got out of their seats, & followed Basil out of the dining area.
Meanwhile, in the kitchen of the Chez Chic, Victoria was washing dishes in the sink. She was still sobbing & looking absolutely miserable. With her violet eyes brimming with tears, Victoria looked down at her reflection in the sudsy sink water...then closed her eyes in melancholy reminiscence. Tears gently rolled down Victoria's cheeks, as she recalled the lamentable, long-ago events that led to her being here...Suddenly, the kitchen door swung open, & the Baker Street Family stepped inside. "You're not fooling anyone, Victoria!" Basil exclaimed. "Not even your waitress' attire can disguise your true identity!"
Upon hearing the detective's voice, Victoria immediately burst out of her sad reverie, nearly dropping the plates she was washing. Turning to glare at the Baker Street Family & its private-eye patriarch, Victoria slammed the dishes down on the counter, & declared defensively, "I have no idea what you're talking about!"
"Victoria, don't you know who I am?" Basil asked, as he walked across the room with his loved ones to approach the woman in question. "I am Basil Of Baker Street, one of the smartest mice in London!"
Victoria tried to go back to washing & scrubbing the dishes with a washrag & a bar of soap, hoping to deter the Baker Street Family from approaching her any further. "Well, you're too smart for your own good!" Victoria said angrily as she went back to her work, trying to ignore the visitors who had reopened the emotional wounds that she thought time had long since healed. "Now, please, leave me alone, before I notify the manager."
"The manager won't do anything about this," Basil stated.
"Then I'll notify the authorities!" Victoria snapped, washing & scrubbing the dishes more vigorously.
Instead of leaving, Basil (along with the others) stayed. He simply would not let the matter alone. "I am the authorities, madam!" Basil declared, determined as ever to get Victoria to listen to him. "And I refuse to budge until you agree to come with me & my family to Baker Street!" Pestered by Basil's persistence, Victoria slammed down the dishes, soap, & washrag in an angry fit, then turned to face the Baker Street Family with a look of fury in her eyes. Then, after a second or two, her once-enraged expression melted into a sad, sorrowful look. With a concerned, compassionate countenance on his face, Basil stepped even closer to Victoria, as his loved ones followed closely behind him. "Victoria...I know who you are, & what has happened to you during your past," Basil said compassionately. "But that's all behind you now! You don't have to work here anymore, & spend the rest of your life in hiding. You can leave this place, & find a new home...a place where you can get good food, clothing, & shelter that's much more adequate than what you have here!" Smiling tenderly, Basil gently extended his paw to Victoria. With her glance darting to & fro, Victoria stared up at Basil, & looked down at his outstretched hand. "Come with us, Victoria," Basil coaxed. "Come with me & my family to Baker Street..."
Victoria kept switching her gaze between Basil & his paw for several seconds, wondering what she should do. Then, finally, the waitress smiled, & took Basil's paw in acceptance of his offer. Still beaming & holding Basil's hand, Victoria stepped over to the detective & his loved ones, & replied resolutely, "I will."
With that, the kitchen door was opened, & Basil, Victoria, & the Baker Street Family all stepped out together, as they started to exit the Chez Chic. Just then, Victoria's boss—none other than the restaurant's manager—came onto the scene. He was absolutely shocked to see Victoria walking away with some of his customers! "Victoria...Where are you going?" the stunned businessmouse asked.
"To Baker Street," Victoria answered, smiling at her boss as she literally untied her apron strings. "It's been an extreme pleasure working at the Chez Chic...but, sadly, after 60 years of servitude under the roof of your restaurant, I'm afraid I must resign from my post. Good day." Victoria then released her apron, which gracefully floated down onto the ground, & after the garment made a gentle landing upon the floor, Victoria & the Baker Street Family continued walking until they had exited the restaurant. Now in the Chez Chic's parking lot, Basil & his loved ones escorted Victoria over to their van. Impressed with the sight of the vehicle, Victoria marveled, "Oh, my goodness, you have a splendid car! Is it new?"
"Well, if you consider a little over three months ago to be new...then, yes," Basil answered. Basil then opened the doors of the van, & he, Victoria, & the Baker Street Family all went inside. The rodents took their usual positions, with Victoria seated with the Baker Street Kids in the back. When everyone was buckled up, Basil turned on the ignition, & took the wheel in his paws. The van subsequently started up, then backed out of its parking space, & drove out of the lot.
When our heroes & their new friend finally arrived back at Basil's house, they opened the front door, & stepped into the antechamber leading to the living room. "Well, Victoria, here we are!" Basil exclaimed cheerfully. "Now, why don't you take a moment to get settled in?"
(CUE MUSIC: "Romance In F Major For Violin & Orchestra", by Antonin Dvorak)
Victoria & the Baker Street Family made their way down into the living room. Upon entering the area, Victoria made herself comfortable in one of the living room's armchairs, as the Baker Street Family went in to sit down with her in the other chairs, sofas, & chaise lounges. Once everyone else had been seated, Mrs. Judson walked over to Victoria, & asked, "So, Victoria, how would you like some breakfast? You must be starving!"
"Indeed, I am starving!" Victoria replied, nodding her head vigorously.
"I'll come around with some food for you in just a few moments!" Mrs. Judson said. "Be right back, dearie!" With that, Mrs. Judson scuttled off to the kitchen. When she was gone, Victoria turned to face the rest of the Baker Street Family with a warm smile, happy to know that she had made so many new friends today. Soon afterwards, Mrs. Judson came back into the living room, holding plates of piping-hot breakfast, which she handed to Victoria.
"Thank you, Mrs. Judson!" Victoria exclaimed, smiling broadly as she took the dishes of food from the mousekeeper. Victoria then dug into her meal ravenously, famished & starving. As the Baker Street Family watched Victoria eat, they were absolutely stunned by how hungry she was! When she finally finished her meal, Victoria looked at a cup of herbal tea that Mrs. Judson held out for her in her paw.
"How 'bout you have some nice, hot tea to wash it all down, dear?" Mrs. Judson asked.
Victoria took the cup of tea from Mrs. Judson, & drank it all down in one big gulp. When she swallowed the last drop down her throat, Victoria wiped her mouth with her sleeve, then placed the teacup down on a nearby table. Mrs. Judson then sat down with the Baker Street Family, & Victoria turned to face them. "I suppose you're all wondering why I look so much like Queen Mousetoria...& why I share her name, right?" Victoria asked. The members of the Baker Street Family all nodded their heads in unison, & Victoria continued, "Well...as it happens...I am Queen Mousetoria's twin sister...the Princess Victoria." When they heard this, the Baker Street Family looked positively shocked, except for Basil, who gave a small "I knew it" look. "It's a long story, really," Victoria said. "A very, very long story..." [1]
"We'd love to hear it," Dr. Dawson said genially.
"All right," Victoria replied, before clearing her throat softly. Smiling at the recollection, she said with a wistful longing in her voice, "I remember my old life like it was yesterday. As long as I live, I'll always recall those first 15 years of my existence, growing up in Buckingham Palace with my parents & sister...Ah, my dear Mousetoria! Being twins, Mousie & I were extremely close, but to the point where we were more than mere siblings—we were best friends.
"During the royal studies, when we were supposed to be doing our work, we would often goof off instead! Sometimes, we'd also pass notes to each other during lessons. Once, Mousie sent me a letter that said, 'Mr. Micawber has funny four-eyes', & when our teacher made us give the note to him, he nearly fainted when he saw my drawing of him wearing foolish glasses! We couldn't stop laughing, even when he swacked our hands with his ruler! Mousie & I loved to play tricks on everyone, especially the servants. One time, we put a worm in Mother's teacup, & she nearly threw up...I still laugh just thinking about it! But between me & Mousetoria, I was definitely the more mischievous of the two—I was the royal scamp who was always getting in & out of trouble! But whenever Mousie & I were making 'mousechief', it was all in good fun, & there were never any harmful intentions involved.
"Mousetoria & I also loved playing together whenever & however we could! We had all sorts of toys, games, & other amusements to keep us entertained all day long...& whenever we should grow tired of playing in our room, we would have fun in other places, too! One of our many favorite pastimes was playing 'hide & seek' in the palace halls...I was often the first to find her. We also loved taking care of our pet dragonfly, Dash, & tending to the royal gardens. Occasionally, when Mousie & I were outside, we would find a sick or wounded animal, & nurse it back to health. Mousetoria & I also loved music, & anything having to do with it. Sometimes, we would even come to accompany our mother, Queen Mother Catherine, when she played the piano. If only Madame Ratburn & Anya had built a time machine, so I could go back & relive all those wonderful moments..." [2] As her voice began to trail off, Victoria's face fell, & she held back a tear; the difficult part of her story was about to begin. She continued, "There's only thing about my childhood that I'd like to forget...& that is my father, King Edward."
"Why is that, if you don't mind me asking?" Ratigan asked.
Victoria replied, "My parents had totally different attitudes when it came to their children. Mother loved & doted on me just as much as she did Mousetoria, but Father...Well, Father absolutely adored Mousetoria, but hated my guts! From the moment I came into the world, Father never spared one kind thought, word, or deed for me. Perhaps, though, our relationship would have been a lot more amicable if Father wasn't so mentally unstable. [3] As you may recall, King Edward suffered from severe paranoia for much of his life, & his condition only seemed to get worse when Mousetoria & I were born. It was precisely because of these irrational fears plaguing his mind, that he came to dislike me so much. The one thing about me that bothered him above all others, was the very fact that I was a twin. Father was constantly worried about me 'taking my sister's place as rightful queen of Mouse England', & even when everyone else around him tried to assure him that those fears were unjustified, he just could never shake those suspicions. The power that paranoia held over my father, was very potent indeed...But as bad as my relationship with King Edward was, I never would have imagined that he would do anything so drastic as what he did on that cold, rainy day in 1837..."
"What happened, Victoria?" Olivia inquired.
Getting increasingly upset, Victoria's voice began to break as she continued, "Shortly after Mousetoria & I had turned 15, my sister was about to be crowned queen. One of the other millions of things that we loved to do was to imitate each other in silly games. Unfortunately, I happened to take this on a much larger scale. And I was about to lose the game miserably...That day, Mother & Father were having a rehearsal in order to prepare for Mousetoria's upcoming coronation ceremony. When it was time for Mousie to recite her royal speech & oath, I suddenly got the urge to play an imitation game with her, & I ended up copying her every word & gesture. By the time I finished saying the oath, Father had had enough! You couldn't imagine how angry he was..."
The Baker Street Family was now becoming even more astonished by the twists & turns of Victoria's tale! They simply had to hear more. "Do go on, my dear," Dr. Dawson said gently.
And, so, Victoria continued with her story: "Father stomped over to me, & grabbed me by the paw, pulling me up into the air. Oh, God, the look of rage that was on his face at that moment...I'll never forget it for as long as I live! 'What did you say?!' Father screamed at me. 'Tell me! Tell me right now what you just said earlier! Every last word of it!' I was scared to death of what Father might do to me, but I didn't want to make him angry, so I recited the coronation speech & oath all over again. All the while, I was shaking & sobbing, hoping that Father would have mercy on me. But, alas, not even my tears or prayers could save me. To Father, what I had done was the highest form of treason, the ultimate betrayal of the royal family! He was not going to let me get away with it, no matter how much Mother, Mousetoria, or the servants pleaded & protested! And, so, Father banished me from the palace, & told me I was never to return. I never saw Mousetoria again..."
The tears almost came again, but this time, Victoria held them back. Meanwhile, the Baker Street Family continued to be touched by Victoria's story. Some of them even had tears forming in their eyes.
"Oh, you poor lass!" Hiram said sympathetically.
Drying her misty eyes with her sleeve, Victoria finished her troubling tale: "I lived on the streets of Mouse London for the next few months or so, traveling from the West End to the South End. That was where I was picked up by the manager of the Chez Chic, who offered me to work in his restaurant as a busgirl. Eager to find a safe place to stay & desperate for a job, I accepted his offer...Eventually, after several weeks of persistence & hard work, I was able to move up to the level of a waitress...And that was the job I held for the next 60 years of my life...up until today..." As her voice started breaking, Victoria added tearfully, "But during my years at the Chez Chic, I never forgot about the life I lived at Buckingham Palace...who I really was, & what had happened to me...who my family was...how much they missed me...how they came to think I was dead!"
The Baker Street Family gasped in shock upon hearing this. "Dead?" Dr. Dawson blurted, placing a paw on his chest. "My word..."
"Good heavens!" Mrs. Judson cried, clasping her paws to the sides of her face.
"Och, how terrible!" Hiram lamented, removing his bowler cap from his head, & frowning sadly as he placed it on his chest.
"But what makes you suppose that the royal family thinks you're dead?" a flabbergasted Basil asked.
"Why wouldn't they, after not hearing from me for 60 years?" Victoria replied sadly, as silent tears rolled down her cheeks. "After all, it's not easy to survive on the streets for a few years, let alone a few days. And in that kind of environment, anything can happen! You could get eaten by a cat, or run over by a carriage, or murdered by criminals! And it's not just that..." (Her voice broke a little at this point.) "After Father banished me from Buckingham Palace, he not only cut me completely out of his life, but even went so far as to publicly declare me dead to the rest of the world! He even held a fake funeral service, attended by thousands of commoners! Naturally, it was closed-casket. After the funeral, King Edward did everything in his power to make sure that all mentions or traces of me anywhere were swept under the rug, so that no one would remember or know about me." (A pause, as Victoria took a moment to dry her tears with her paw.) "Had I not been afraid of any repercussions, I would have given Mousetoria & the others a sign that I was still alive...but it's far too late for that now, I fear." Gradually starting to lose her composure, Victoria exclaimed sorrowfully, "In a matter of months, my sister will be celebrating the 61st anniversary of my disappearance...but she thinks it's the 61st anniversary of my death!"
At this point, Victoria burst into tears again, & started sobbing into her paws. The Baker Street Family continued to stare at Victoria with a mixture of emotions—awe, astonishment, compassion, pity, sympathy, sorrow, sadness, distress, heartfelt anger...anger that the hands of fate could allow such terrible tragedies to afflict Victoria & her family...& all of Mouse London, as well. Finally, after several seconds, Basil's face formed a calm expression, & the detective got up out of his chair to walk over to the crying Victoria. Now standing at Victoria's side, Basil placed his paw on the woman's shoulder in a reassuring manner, smiling down at her. "Don't worry, Victoria," Basil said comfortingly. "It's not too late to fix this. We can still tell the royal family that Queen Mousetoria's long-lost sister has been found alive & well!"
"But will they believe you?" Victoria asked, looking up at Basil with tears in her eyes.
"Of course, they will!" Basil replied confidently. Even as she sniffled, Victoria felt her spirits gradually soaring as she listened to the Great Mouse Detective speak. With utmost sincerity, Basil vowed, "Victoria, I solemnly swear to you that we will find the royal family, let them know that you're still alive, & ensure that your sister & other loved ones are spared from any further heartache!"
"You'll really do that...for me?" an astonished Victoria questioned.
"I give you my honest word," Basil promised. As she smiled through the last of her tears, Victoria—sincerely grateful to Basil—couldn't resist wrapping her arms around the detective in a warm, fierce hug. Basil was a little shocked at first when he felt Victoria embracing him...but, then, he smiled, & gently returned the hug, as he patted her back in an assuring manner.
Meanwhile, in her bedchambers at Buckingham Palace, Queen Mousetoria was sitting at her vanity, sniffling & sobbing uncontrollably into the tissues she took out of the box on her table. Josie & Jenny, flanking Queen Mousetoria as usual, tended to Her Majesty, & tried to offer her some small crumbs of comfort. It was the most the ladies-in-waiting could do, given how despondent their employer was feeling today. "There, there, Your Majesty!" Josie cooed compassionately, trying to console Queen Mousetoria. "It's all right!"
"Why don't we take a moment to calm down?" Jenny asked gently.
Queen Mousetoria subsequently blew her nose into her tissue, then handed it to Josie for her to dispose of in a nearby wastepaper basket. Jenny then took out another tissue from the box on the vanity table, before offering it to Queen Mousetoria. The miserable monarch gently took the hankie, & dabbed at her moist, teary eyes with it, as she tried to control her sobbing. She only managed to control it well enough so that she could talk clearly. "Oh, I can't believe it!" Mousetoria cried sadly, speaking in a broken voice. "It's been 60 years since my sister was banished from Buckingham Palace..." The Queen sniffled, then quickly started to lose her composure as she said sorrowfully, "And in five months...it will soon...be the day..."—her lip quivered, as tears sprang to her eyes once more—"...of the anniversary...The 61st anniversary of my sweet Victoria's death!" Unable to contain herself any longer, Queen Mousetoria started sobbing into her hankie again. "Oh, boo-hoo-hoo!" the monarch wailed miserably.
Josie & Jenny patted Queen Mousetoria on the shoulders comfortingly. "I weep for you, Your Majesty," Josie said sadly. "I deeply empathize."
"Yes, yes, as do I, Queen Mousetoria," Jenny assented, nodding in agreement with her sister.
Queen Mousetoria tried to control her sobbing again, then looked up at her handmaidens with a mournful frown. "Could you girls...please take me...to the royal nursery?" the Queen whispered woefully. "I wish to look at the room where my sister & I spent so much time together..."
Josie & Jenny gazed somberly at Queen Mousetoria, feeling for their mousetress' plight. "Certainly, Your Majesty," Josie replied obediently. Both of the Richardson girls offered their paws to Queen Mousetoria, who took those hands into her own as she followed them out of the bedchambers. Josie & Jenny then escorted Queen Mousetoria through the palace hallways, until they finally reached the entrance to the royal nursery. "Here we are, Your Majesty," Jenny said.
Josie & Jenny then opened the door for Queen Mousetoria, who stepped closer to look inside the room where she & her sister played, talked, relaxed, & slept together as mouselings. When Mousetoria saw the royal nursery, she felt her heart sink even more, for the room had been kept exactly the same as it was on the day when Victoria left. Toys, dolls, stuffed animals, games, & other playthings were everywhere. Portraits of Mousetoria, Victoria, & their parents adorned the walls, along with paintings & pictures done by the princesses themselves. The aforementioned walls were decorated with paint in pastel pink, & the rose-colored carpet was made of fine Oriental wool. A canopy bed stood in the middle of the room, its silk curtains pulled open to reveal the disheveled blankets, sheets, & pillows covering the mattress. Lace curtains flanked the large square window that let in the sunlight & moonshine every day. A grand piano stood in one corner, with sheet music still resting on its stand. An armoire in another corner still had all the princesses' favorite clothes inside it, & the adjacent vanity table did not have one item of makeup, perfume, or other cosmetics removed from its surface. Even the special necklace Victoria loved to wear, was still looped around its wooden support stand...
That necklace was a special birthday gift given to the royal family by a kindly Gypsy mouse, Queen Mousetoria remembered. It contained a most-remarkable artifact that many fursons knew only through legends, yet turned out to be as real as anything in this world—the Philosopher's Stone! In addition to its alchemical properties, the Philosopher's Stone is also able to extend one's life, useful for rejuvenation & for achieving immortality. [4] Our tutors didn't believe that such a thing could ever exist, but my sister, parents, & I knew the truth! I wonder if one can still feel the necklace's magic after all these years...Oh, if only my sister had taken it with her on the day she left! Then, perhaps, she would still be alive! My beloved Victoria...Oh, how I miss you! Now overcome by an overwhelming ocean of memories of life with her only sister, Queen Mousetoria suddenly burst into tears, sobbing hysterically as she sank to the floor of the royal nursery. Josie & Jenny immediately rushed over to Her Majesty, knelt down beside her, & tried to comfort her again. However, the handmaidens' attempts to console Queen Mousetoria were in vain.
A couple of hours later, Victoria & the Baker Street Family were still seated together in the living room...but, now, they were much closer to one another than they'd ever been before—literally & figuratively. The rodents had spent the rest of their morning chatting & conversing about all sorts of topics, & getting to know each other more fursonally. At one point, Basil went outside to check the mail, before coming back into the living room to approach his loved ones & their new friend. Smiling at his lady visitor, Basil said, "Victoria, I'm going upstairs to the third floor to get the guest bedroom ready for you. I should have it done by this evening, if not sooner."
Victoria smiled at Basil, as tears filled her eyes again—but this time, they were tears of happiness. Overcome with emotion, Victoria declared, "Thank you, Basil...Thank you so much for your kindness towards me..." Then, to the rest of the Baker Street Family, Victoria added, "And thanks to all of you, as well. I don't know how I can possibly repay you..." When Victoria started to sniffle & cry a little, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Fidget all went over to the older woman, with the Flaversham cousins hopping up to sit on either one of her knees.
"Aw, don't cry, Victoria!" Olivia said with a smile. "I know what'll cheer you up!"
Fidget gave a little wink of his eye, then handed Olivia a squirting flower. She offered the toy to Cousin Timmy, who smiled upon seeing it being presented to him. "For me? Thanks, Liv!" Cousin Timmy exclaimed, delighted with the gift. The boy took the squirting flower into his paws...& it gushed a big spray of water into his face, causing his fur, ears, & hat to be soaking wet. Cousin Timmy glowered irritatedly at Olivia, who smiled innocently, & acted as though she did nothing wrong.
Upon seeing the whole silly spectacle, Victoria started to giggle. She attempted to stifle her laughter at first, but her efforts to do so were worthless. Soon, Victoria, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Fidget were all laughing & giggling with one another. After the laughter subsided, an exhilarated Victoria wiped a tear from her eye, & exclaimed exuberantly, "Oh...goodness gracious! You children do such a splendid job at cheering rodents up when they're feeling down!"
"Ah, et cela est pourquoi nous vivons, mademoiselle!" Cousin Timmy commented in French. [5]
Now absolutely smitten with Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Fidget, Victoria gabbed genially, "I do wish that there were more rodentlings in the world as talented &...clever...& caring, & sweet, & sincere, & lovable as you three!" Bringing the children all in for a big hug, Victoria added amiably, "Really, you're all just positively wonderful!" Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Fidget fawned & gushed, flattered by Victoria's praise. The youths had a feeling that they & the former princess were going to get along just fine!
Shortly before noon, Dr. Dawson escorted Victoria to his bedroom / home infirmary / medical ward (located on the second floor of the Baker Street Family's house). Dr. Dawson's bedroom / office / infirmary was neat & immaculate, unlike Basil's cluttered working space across the hall. The walls & floor were painted a blinding shade of white, & three large fluorescent lights adorned the ceiling. Small cots, medical equipment, hospital devices, & various collections of pills, bottles, serums, vitamins, & healing herbs bedecked the whole room. A regular bed (which Dr. Dawson slept in) & a patient's bench were both on the west wall, separated from one another by the door that led into the room. Once Victoria & Dr. Dawson entered the chamber, the former stripped down to her undergarments—a sleeveless light-pink bodice, a light-pink linen petticoat with lace trimmings, & a pair of pale-pink bloomers—before taking her seat on the patient's bench. Dr. Dawson then proceeded to give Victoria a full medical checkup.
First, Dr. Dawson used a stethoscope to listen to Victoria's heartbeat. As he did, he noted aloud, "Hmmm...heart rate normal...No murmurs or any signs of malfunctioning..." Once he was sure that all cardiac conditions were nonexistent, Dr. Dawson put up the stethoscope, then took out a small pen-light to look at Victoria's ears. "Now, let us check your ears, dear," Dr. Dawson said, before beginning his inspection with the right ear. "Hmm...No excess wax buildup...No sign of infection...Eardrum is intact..." Checking the left ear, Dr. Dawson determined, "Errr...there's a bit of excess wax in your ear on the left side...But nothing we can't fix easily." With that, the medical mouse took out a Q-tip, & cleaned Victoria's ear with it. When he was finished with that task, Dawson removed the Q-tip, & exclaimed, "There we go! All done!"
Dr. Dawson then reached into his black bag for a tongue depressor, & asked as he withdrew the wooden stick, "Now, Victoria, can you open real wide for me?" Victoria opened her mouth as wide as she could, & Dr. Dawson inspected the inside of said mouth with the tongue depressor & pen-light. Checking around Victoria's oral orifice, the doctor said, "Hmm...Tonsils don't appear to be swollen...Teeth look clean...I'd say your mouth seems to be doing pretty fine, overall." Dr. Dawson then gently applied pressure to Victoria's tongue with the wooden depressor. "Tongue looks fine, too," Dawson remarked.
Upon finishing his mouth inspection, Dr. Dawson tossed the tongue depressor into a small wastepaper basket at the foot of the patient's bench, then used his pen-light to inspect Victoria's eyes. As he checked Victoria's violet orbs for anything amiss, Dr. Dawson declared, "Eyesight is perfect...No cataracts or signs of vision loss..." With that, Dr. Dawson turned off his pen-light, & put it back into his black medical bag, along with his other tools & instruments. "Well, Victoria," Dawson concluded, "aside from the malnutrition & hunger that have afflicted you during much of your life, & were exacerbated by your inability to afford food most days, due to little pay at your old job...I determine that you are otherwise fine, & not to worry—your current issues can easily be corrected..."
"Lunchtime, everyone!" Mrs. Judson called from downstairs.
"...starting immediately!" Dr. Dawson added, turning to smile at Victoria. The former surgeon & soldier then handed Victoria her waitress' outfit, which she put on over her fancy undergarments. After she put on her shoes, Victoria smiled, & took Dr. Dawson by the paw, scooting off of the patient's bench to land upon the floor, & letting the kindly doctor lead her out of the room. Dr. Dawson & Victoria then made their way downstairs into the dining room, where Olivia, Basil, Hiram, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget were sitting at the table, getting ready to eat lunch.
Dr. Dawson & Victoria joined the others at the aforementioned table, & prepared for their meal. At this point, Mrs. Judson opened the kitchen door, & walked into the dining room, handing Victoria & the Baker Street Family plenty of delicious food. "Here's your lunch, everyone!" Mrs. Judson chirped cheerfully, as she passed around each platter of provisions. "Enjoy!"
When Mrs. Judson handed Victoria her meal, Victoria was almost drooling at the sight of the wonderful food on her plates & dishes. "My goodness...a banquet fit for a starving princess!" the ecstatic ex-noble exclaimed. Victoria then turned to smile at Mrs. Judson, as she praised the mousekeeper in utmost gratitude, "Thank you so very much, Mrs. Judson! You're a saint!" With that, Victoria tucked into her food heartily, unable to control her ravenous hunger. For the longest time, Victoria had never had the pleasure of dining upon a scrumptious meal, but she could now enjoy that satisfying sensation once more...& it was all thanks to her new friends on Baker Street! I'm so glad to have met Basil & his family, Victoria thought. Heaven knows where I'd be without them!
After lunch was over, the Baker Street Kids invited Victoria to come play with them in Olivia's mega-playroom, & Victoria was glad to accept the rodentlings' offer. Soon, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, Fidget, & Victoria were all playing together, & having a grand, gay old time with one another! At one point, Olivia & the other children decided to play a game of "Fox & Chickens", & appointed Victoria to be the "fox" who would chase them. Once the game began, Victoria was in hot pursuit of the Baker Street Kids, & the five rodents all giggled & laughed cheerfully as they chased one another about. "I'm gonna get you!" Victoria said mischievously. "You better run fast!"
"Fair lady, my feet doth soar with the swift speed & agility of the winged shoes of Mercury!" Ratigan retorted playfully.
"Well, Hermes isn't going to help you out of this one, pal!" Victoria replied with a smug smirk. "I have you now!"
"Guess again, Victoria!" Fidget cried, before flying up to the top of the playroom, & hiding himself from view.
Meanwhile, Victoria kept chasing Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Ratigan. After the chase continued for several more moments, Ratigan swerved to dodge out of the way as Victoria gained up on her "prey"...& finally managed to catch Olivia & Cousin Timmy by their tails. Victoria brought both mouselings up into the air while holding onto their aforementioned tails, & all three of them giggled playfully. Standing not too far away from Victoria & the Flaversham cousins, Ratigan smiled warmly at the trio while he witnessed the adorable sight of them interacting so pleasantly together...before suddenly sporting a look of puzzlement on his face as a thought occurred to him. "Where in the deuce is Fidget?" Ratigan asked. He looked around left & right for his batty brother-figure, wondering where he could be.
Soon, Victoria, Olivia, & Cousin Timmy were brought out of their state of mirthful merriment when they heard a familiar voice shouting triumphantly, "WAAAAHOOOOOO! YAAAAHOOOOOO!" Victoria & the Flaversham cousins all looked up to see a dark shadow looming over them. Fidget was sitting atop a large disco ball attached to the mega-playroom's ceiling, which broke off. Fidget took off his black cap, & waved it around wildly in the air as he rode the disco ball, which began making a rapid descent towards the ground. All the while, he cried joyfully, "WAAAHHOOOOO! WAAAAAHHHHHOOOOOOO!" While Fidget continued to cheer & wave his hat around in ecstatic rodeo style, Fidget's ride picked up speed as the disco ball fell closer & closer towards a rainbow-striped toy in Olivia's pool that looked eerily similar to a target pad. Then, finally, the disco ball made contact with the toy...& upon impact, the water in Olivia's pool went flying everywhere in a massive explosion! [6] By the time said explosion was over, everything in the mega-playroom was soaking wet—including Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Victoria, & Ratigan! The pool was now nearly empty, but Fidget, the disco ball, & all the pool toys were resting on the very bottom. Sitting up on his bum, Fidget looked up with a sheepish, toothy smile as he tittered bashfully, & placed his soggy, damp cap back on his head. Hopefully, he wouldn't get in too much trouble for this little mishap...
A couple of hours later, Victoria & the Flaversham cousins were in Hiram's bedroom / home workshop. Olivia & Cousin Timmy stood at Victoria's feet, as Victoria watched over the mouselings from her standing position behind them, with a concerned look on her face. Both of her young charges, with their arms akimbo, were confronting one another nose-to-nose, in the middle of a heated argument. "No, Timmy!" Olivia told her cousin firmly. "I'm not filling up the pool water by myself! I need you to help me with the hose!"
"Hey, I covered for you by cleaning up all your stuff, drying off everything, & fixing your playroom 'till it was back to the way it was before Mr. Strange-Bat made a mess!" Cousin Timmy retorted irritatedly. In a huff, Timmy pivoted around sharply, & started walking away from Olivia.
Olivia scampered after Cousin Timmy, desperately trying to plead with him. "Please, Timmy, just help me out one last time!" an exasperated Olivia begged, as she chased after her kinsmouse.
"Forget it!" Cousin Timmy replied, crossing his arms over his chest, & tilting his nose up in the air.
"Pleeeease?" Olivia asked.
"Appy-polly-loggies, Ollie, but that's a definite no, non, nein, nyet, & big, fat negatory!" Cousin Timmy answered stubbornly, shaking his head.
When she got this disappointing response, Olivia pouted & sulked, sporting a grumpy frown as she turned around to face in the opposite direction, away from Cousin Timmy. Victoria thought for a moment, wondering how she might be able to settle the issue. Then, she bent down between the Flaversham cousins, bringing the two mouselings closer together with gentle pushes of her paws on their heads as she said, "Why don't you both refill the swimming pool...together? You'll get it done more quickly."
Olivia & Cousin Timmy paused to consider Victoria's suggestion. Finally, Timmy shrugged his shoulders, & decided, "I guess we can give it a try." Taking Olivia by the paw, & leading her back to the mega-playroom, Cousin Timmy said, "C'mon, Livvy."
Victoria watched the Flaversham cousins exit, then stood back upright. At this point, Hiram entered the bedroom / workshop, now dressed in his toymaking outfit. Hiram sat down at his workbench, then smiled when he turned to see Victoria standing a few feet away from him. "Oh! Hello, Victoria," Hiram greeted genially.
Victoria turned to face Hiram, & returned the smile at him. "Hello, Mr. Flaversham," Victoria responded amiably.
(CUE MUSIC: "Meditation", from Jules Massenet's "Thais")
Victoria went over to Hiram, sitting beside him at his workbench. At the table, Victoria watched the Scotsmouse getting out his tools, & preparing to work on a new batch of toys. "You're a craftsmouse, aren't you, Mr. Flaversham?" Victoria asked, pointing to Hiram's tools.
"Well, if you're interested in the specifics, ma'am, I'm a toymaker," Hiram answered.
Hiram then began working on building the new set of toys, as Victoria watched with interest. "My goodness...you perform your job so well!" Victoria complimented.
"Thank you," Hiram replied, smiling.
"Where did you learn to make toys like that?" Victoria inquired.
"I learned everything I know from the mouseter...my dad, Malcolm," Hiram responded.
A beat of silence passed, & then, Victoria questioned, "Where did you grow up, Hiram?"
"On my family's farm in the countryside of Scotland," Hiram said.
"I've never been to Scotland," Victoria admitted. "What's it like?"
"Ach, it's a beautiful place!" Hiram exclaimed exuberantly. "You really ought to travel up there sometime."
"That would be a fantastic idea!" Victoria declared in delight. After a pause, she continued on with her intimate interview: "So, who did you live with in Scotland? Did you have any brothers or sisters in your family?"
"Well, I'm the youngest of two siblings. I have an older sister, Miriam," Hiram answered. "After Miriam & I got old enough, we both moved to London to seek our fortunes. Miriam converted to Catholicism, & married a local priest. They both had one son, little Timmy..."—the smile on Hiram's face turned into a sad frown at this point—"...but shortly after Timmy was born, Father Billy got eaten by a cat on the way to an evening sermon." With a sorrowful sigh, Hiram lamented, "Poor Miriam's been raising Timmy on her own ever since. But she's been under a lot of duress for all these years—without a father figure in his life to guide him, Timmy kinda took the wrong path, & started hanging out with some bad kids...They got him into lots of trouble. It ended up being so stressful for Miriam that she kicked Timmy out of the house, & told him not to come back until he had improved his behavior..." Hiram sighed again, then gave a hopeful smile at Victoria, & opined optimistically, "One day, Timmy will return to his mother. Slowly, but surely, he's beginning to turn over a brand-new leaf."
"And what happened to you when you moved to London, Hiram?" Victoria inquired.
Smiling fondly as he recalled the events, Hiram replied, "Well, I set up my toy shop business on Walnut Avenue, found the mouse woman of my dreams, got married to her, & had our sweet, adorable daughter...Olivia." Then, Hiram's face gradually sported another sad frown, as he came to the tragic part of his story: "Karen stayed to help me raise Olivia & run the toy shop for the next 7 years...But, then, one day, while we were going home from grocery-shopping, a hansom cab was about to run over us! I managed to grab Olivia, & whisk her out of the way in time...but for poor Karen, it was too late..." The toymaker sighed again, & added, "The Flaversham household lost a devoted wife & a loving mother that day." [7]
"I'm sorry, Mr. Flaversham," Victoria commiserated, gazing sadly at Hiram as she tenderly placed her paw on his. "I truly am."
Hiram looked up at Victoria with a wistful gaze, then went back to working on his toys, gradually returning to his normal cheery disposition as he spoke: "Thanks, Victoria. It feels a little lonely, sometimes, without Karen around, but we try to move on...for her memory's sake. Karen would want us to live as though she were still among us, not mope around & grieve for her loss. And that's what Olivia & I have tried to do for the last 3 years."
"You & your family appear to be very resilient rodents, Hiram," Victoria remarked.
"Well, Victoria, as I like to say, the Flavershams always make it through the best of times...& the worst of times," Hiram stated stalwartly. "Even though the family toy shop business is going through some tough troubles right now, Olivia, Timmy, & I don't let it bring us down! I'm sure things will get better for us one day soon!"
While she listened to Hiram say all these things as he worked busily on his toys, Victoria couldn't help but smile in utter amazement at the toymaker. She could clearly see the sense of inner strength & fortitude than ran in his family's blood. "I'm sure they will, Hiram," Victoria beamed, astounded by her friend's incredible puissance & persistence. "I'm sure they will." Hiram looked up at Victoria, & returned her smile, before going back to working on his toys some more. Bless me bagpipes! Hiram thought. You'd think that for someone with such a tragic, troubled past, they wouldn't be so optimistic or upbeat...But just look at Victoria! I swear, that woman is full of surprises...
"So, how did you come to know Basil, Dr. Dawson, Mrs. Judson, Ratigan, & Fidget?" Victoria asked.
"Well, it's a long story," Hiram replied. "I can give you the short version for now, & fill you in on all the details later. Back in July, Queen Mousetoria was celebrating her Diamond Jubilee. Ratigan & Fidget, who were evil at that time, kidnapped me in order to use my toymaking & inventing skills. They wanted me to build a robot queen that would take the real queen's place, & make it easier for Ratigan to become king. Olivia met Dr. Dawson while trying to look for someone to help her, & they went to Baker Street to enlist Basil's assistance. Naturally, of course, they also met Mrs. Judson. Anyway, after some investigation, Basil, Dr. Dawson, & Olivia found out what Ratigan & Fidget were up to, & they managed to put a stop to their scheme. Basil & Dr. Dawson were awarded & knighted for their heroic actions, & Olivia & I left for Mouse Scotland not too long afterward. We decided to stay with my parents & their neighbors for a while, but we ended up going back to Mouse London earlier than we expected when we heard about the latest developments in the toymaking industry. When we returned to the city, the toy shop was there to give us a warm welcome, as was Cousin Timmy."
"You said something about your toy shop having business troubles," Victoria remembered. "When did that start?"
"Not too long after we reopened the store," Hiram answered. "There were a lot of factors involved, & a lot of reasons as to why it went under...but, nonetheless, things got so bad to the point where Olivia, Timmy, & I were at the poverty level! Luckily, Basil, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson saw what was going on, & they kindly offered to let us stay with them while we got the toy shop back on its feet again. At the same time, Ratigan & Fidget had reformed, & they made peace with Basil & the rest of us, before taking up lodgings at our place."
"My goodness," Victoria gasped in astonishment, "those actions were quite noble & generous on Basil's part!"
"Indeed, they were, Victoria," Hiram agreed warmly. "Fursonally, I think Basil has always been a white knight in shining armor, with a heart as golden as that of any other hero. He just didn't always show that side of himself...not until Olivia & I came into his life. Looking back, it's amazing to see how much Basil has changed over the last few months! But, then again, it's not entirely surprising...My daughter has a way of bringing out the best qualities in rodents. She could turn the gruffest guy in town to a cheery, chipper chap within a matter of mere moments!"
"I'm sure she inherited that trait from you, Mr. Flaversham," Victoria complimented.
"Aye, indeed...& from her mother, too!" Hiram gushed gaily. "Olivia's got a special charm that only a scoundrel like Mouses Fiennes could resist!"
A beat of silence passed, before Victoria finally rose from her seat, & made her way to the door. "Well, it was absolutely lovely chatting with you, Hiram," the ex-princess said sweetly, "& I hope to see you again before the day is out. I'll leave you to your work, now..." Before walking out into the hallway, Victoria added abruptly, "Oh, & I hope your business fares much better!"
"I'm sure it will," Hiram replied with a nod. "I'm sure it will."
(CUE MUSIC: "Piano Concerto In A Minor", by Johann Sebastian Bach)
That evening, the Baker Street Family & Victoria ate dinner in the dining room, & when everyone was finished with their evening meal, they all went upstairs to tend to their vesperal business. In the washroom that adjoined Basil's bedroom, Victoria took a nice, hot bubble bath, humming a merry tune as she scrubbed & washed herself from head to toe. Her nudity was hidden by a dark-green privacy silk-screen placed in front of the bathtub, & little light-blue bubbles could be seen floating out from behind it. On the other side of the room, Basil opened the door, & walked into the cleansing chamber, clutching a set of ladies' nightclothes in his paws. Bending over to lay the nightclothes neatly on top of the basin counter, Basil announced, "Victoria, I thought I'd let you know that I've laid out your nightclothes for you on top of the sink." Then, Basil bent back upright, & turned around to face Victoria, as he added, "Mrs. Judson has lent you one of her nightgowns, &..."
Suddenly, Basil stopped in mid-sentence, & his eyes bugged out in a look of utter surprise. The detective had expected his guest to be done with her bath by this moment, but Victoria wasn't quite finished yet—as a matter of fact, she was in the middle of scrubbing her back. Still seated in the bathtub behind the privacy screen, Victoria slowly turned to look at Basil, waiting for him to say more. Basil, however, misinterpreted her motions, & immediately placed his right hand over both eyes, grimacing in embarrassment. "Oh, dear, I am so sorry, Victoria!" Basil cried, averting his gaze away from the woman. "Didn't mean to be a peeping Tom!" Still holding his paw over his peepers, Basil rushed out of the washroom, slamming the door shut behind him as he exited. That was certainly very peculiar, Victoria thought to herself as she went back to bathing. Ah, well, no matter. I'll just explain everything to Basil when I get out.
Once Victoria was finally done with her bath, she put on the nightgown that Mrs. Judson had lent her, & went into Basil's bedroom, where the detective was waiting for her. It only took a few seconds for Victoria to tell Basil about the earlier misunderstanding, & once that little issue was cleared up, Basil took Victoria by the paw, & escorted her to the house's third floor via the staircase that was next to Dr. Dawson's room. The first room on the west side of the third-story hallway was the duo's destination—none other than the guest bedroom. The guest bedroom had golden walls (decorated with ruby paisley designs) & a dark-golden carpet. A great canopy bed with light-cherry-red mattresses & matching bedsheets & pillows, large scarlet curtains (with golden draw-tassels) on all four sides (attached to the scarlet canopy), scarlet blankets, white linens, & reddish-brown mahogany bedposts (with a headboard of the same color & material) stood at the center of the north wall, with a mahogany nightstand on the right side of it. On the west wall were two mahogany chests (filled with all sorts of toys & games), a mahogany writing desk (adorned with a lamp), & a large mahogany bookcase (the shelves of which were filled with various tomes & periodicals). A ruby rug (juxtaposed between two scarlet chairs that faced the south wall) adorned the center of the room. A medium-sized TV (facing the bed & two chairs) sat on top of a mahogany table that rested against the south wall. A mahogany desk with a PC computer & a mahogany armoire were on the east wall, separated from one another by the door that led into the room.
At this moment, the door swung open, & Basil led Victoria into the guest room, still holding her by the paw. "Here you are, Victoria," Basil said. "The guest bedroom is all set for you."
Victoria turned to face Basil with a grateful smile, then gave him a great, big hug as she exclaimed ecstatically, "Oh, Basil, thank you! Thank you & your family so much for your hospitality!"
Still wrapping her arms around Basil in a powerful embrace, Victoria leaned over to give the detective a long, tender kiss on the nose. When Victoria finally pulled away from the kiss, leaving a noticeable lipstick print on his muzzle, Basil's cheeks blushed a bright red. He looked a little embarrassed at first...but, then, he smiled warmly at Victoria, & returned the hug (but not the kiss) as he replied, "You're welcome, Victoria." Basil then gently parted from the hug, & began walking off. "I'll leave you to get settled in, now," Basil said. With that, Basil walked out through the threshold of the guest room, & shut the door closed, leaving a satisfied Victoria alone in her room. As she flopped onto the mattress of the canopy bed, Victoria spread her arms out like the wings of a liberated bird, & looked up at the ceiling with a happy expression. Never would Victoria have imagined how greatly her life could change in the span of only a few minutes, but it had, & everything was coming up roses for her now! Fate worked in such remarkable ways sometimes...
That night, Victoria was sitting up under the covers of her canopy bed, looking wide awake. Her earlier train of thought had continued to run like a locomotive going nonstop, & they had overstimulated her mind to the point where she was unable to sleep. "Oh, drat it," Victoria whispered to herself in vexation. "It's already 10:30 in the evening, & I can't seem to sleep a wink tonight!" In an ironic imitation of her actions from only a few hours ago, the former princess flopped down onto her mattress, giving an exasperated sigh as she tossed & turned about restlessly. "How am I ever going to get any decent slumber?" Victoria wondered aloud. After a few seconds, Victoria stopped pitching back & forth under her covers when her ears perked up to a faint sound flowing from one of the rooms on the second floor...the sound of a gentle harp melody. Her curiosity now piqued, Victoria pulled back the covers, then got out of bed, went over to the door of the guest room, opened it, & walked out.
Meanwhile, in Ratigan & Fidget's room, the lights were off, except for the lamp on Ratigan's nightstand. Fidget was sleeping in his upside-down bed, but Ratigan (in his long nightshirt) was wide awake, & playing that gentle melody on his harp, illuminated by the glow of his nightstand lamp. Victoria quietly, cautiously stepped into the bedroom, & stood by Ratigan, watching him play his beloved instrument with an amazed, enraptured look on her face. Victoria couldn't help but fawn in delight as she commented upon the tune her friend was playing: "Oh...how beautiful! What a lovely song!"
Upon hearing those words of praise, Ratigan paused his performance for a few moments, & turned around on his harp-stool to face Victoria with a soft smile. "You like it? I wrote it myself," the rat said pleasantly.
"You play harp & write music?" Victoria marveled. "My word, Ratigan, you're a musical prodigy!"
"Thank you," a flattered Ratigan replied, unable to resist smiling "smugly" at Victoria. Ratigan then proceeded to play the rest of his harp song, & when he finally finished, he asked Victoria with another amiable smile, "Any requests you have in mind?"
"Oh...Well, there's one song that I particularly enjoy," Victoria answered.
"I think I know precisely what that song is," Ratigan said.
With that, Ratigan began to play Victoria's favorite song—a sweet & soothing, yet haunting, lullaby. When she heard the musical piece, Victoria smiled, her face brightening in recognition of the melody. "I know that song..." Victoria recalled fondly. "It was a lullaby that Mother used to play for me & my sister when I lived in the palace! As a matter of fact, Mother composed it shortly before Mousetoria & I were born."
Ratigan looked back at Victoria with a pleasant grin as he said, "Yes...And whenever you needed to be lulled off to sleep, or whenever you were feeling sad or upset in any way, Queen Mother Catherine would play that song to calm you & make you feel better." Ratigan went back to playing the lullaby on his harp, but continued speaking to Victoria as he did so. "As it turned out, the royal lullaby came to be well-known throughout the world," Ratigan added while he carried on with his musical performance. "Sometimes, Mouses Fiennes would play it for me, & sometimes, he would ask me to play it for him...even when he was busy with criminal matters. You know..."—he let out a wistful sigh—"...I wish I had a mother as kind & loving as yours, Victoria."
As Ratigan continued to play her lullaby, Victoria kept staring at the former felon, but her smile turned into a sad frown when she realized the tragic implications of Ratigan's last two statements. "Of course..." Victoria said sadly, nodding her head as her face fell. "You were living in the sewer lair during my years at the Chez Chic. Mouses had taken you hostage...but you were much more than just a 'child-figure' to him. You were his pupil, his protege...next in line to take the position of the world's greatest criminal mind!"
Ratigan stopped playing the lullaby for a brief moment, & turned to talk to Victoria, as his once-pleasant expression became somewhat bitter. "That's not necessarily news to me, my dear Victoria," Ratigan said somewhat sullenly. "In spite of my best attempts to put my past behind me, I regret to say that I haven't forgotten anything about those days...& I'm certain you haven't forgotten anything about them, either."
Ratigan then went back to playing the lullaby, now appearing aloof & distant from Victoria. The former princess quickly made an attempt to appease her offended friend, & she cried apologetically, "Oh, please don't be upset, Ratigan! I didn't mean to bring up such bad memories for you..." (Ratigan did not respond to her, & continued playing more of the royal berceuse.) "But if you'd care to listen to me any further...I thought I should mention something." Upon hearing this, Ratigan stopped playing, & turned to face Victoria again. Looking at Ratigan with a sad expression, Victoria continued, "I understand your desire to forget everything that happened to you in your past. I know you want to forget all about being corrupted & sent onto the path of your former criminal lifestyle..." (A pause for breath.) "But please realize that I feel no anger towards you for what you did during the last several years...only pity."
Still seated at his harp, Ratigan continued looking at Victoria, as his expression became less bitter & more sad with each passing second. Meanwhile, Victoria kept on with her sympathetic speech: "Anyone who knew of what happened when you were living with Mouses & the thugs would feel sorry for you...& for what you went through. No child should ever have to experience what you did, regardless of who he is or where he's from...That's the other reason why Mouses had 'taken you hostage'. He'd not only kept you locked up in captivity to spend the rest of your young life training to be his criminal pupil...but he had also robbed you of your childhood, deprived you of a normal lifestyle, & turned you into a brainwashed monster who had no idea of a better world outside of the one he knew...until he came close to losing everything he had, including his very existence! Some were lucky to escape before Mouses could completely destroy their lives, but you...you couldn't be saved."
Ratigan gazed sadly at Victoria, & nodded his head in response to her words, as he replied remorsefully, "Yes...you're quite right, Victoria." Bowing his head down over his chest, he added, "When I became a teenager, I was no longer free from Mouses' rule..." Ratigan lifted his head up a little, & turned back on his stool to face his harp, as if to resume playing it. But he didn't; instead, he continued talking with Victoria, turning to face her instead. "Even though others were fortunately able to flee to the world above the sewer lair, Mouses made sure that I remained under his power, & never tried to break away from his command over me," Ratigan explained. "The Master Of Evil simply couldn't—wouldn't 'allow his criminal pupil to escape to the world of goodness & kindness', where he told me I would 'fare miserably in life' & 'not have an advantage over all the suckers & simps that needed to be exterminated'..." (Beat.) "The world above the sewer lair, Mouses told me, was a world where smart & intelligent mice—emphasis on that word—were snubbed & mocked & ridiculed by ignorant commoners & pitiful peons who were doomed to extinction, because they didn't have any brains to help them get by in their measly existence!"
"And you believed every word of that? You really thought that all that...that poppycock Mouses handed you was actually true?" Victoria asked, absolutely astonished.
"He started handing me that 'poppycock' since I was 3," Ratigan replied. "And with no one else to tell me otherwise, I had no choice but to believe in what Mouses told me."
"But...didn't you ever think to yourself that, somehow, what Mouses told you might have been...unreasonable in some way?" Victoria inquired, still shocked by what she was hearing.
Ratigan scoffed, & retorted with bitter, ironic sarcasm, "There was no room for 'thinking' when it came to Mouses' instructions. No matter what you 'thought' of the words & ideas that came out of his mouth, you had to accept them withoutquestion...& hope against hope that the loony old nut had a good idea of what he was talking about."
"But even so...did Mouses ever consider the possibility that he might...turn out to be wrong?" Victoria questioned.
Looking like he was almost about to laugh, Ratigan replied, "Mouses? Considering the possibility that he might be wrong?" Ratigan stifled the laugh with another scoff, & continued, "I'm afraid you're looking at the rodent world's most stubborn villain...not to mention the cockiest. The day Mouses would ever say anything about being wrong is the day when humans will learn to get along—i.e., not in a million years!" Becoming a little more serious in tone now, Ratigan added, "As far as I can tell, Mouses had no way of knowing that there was a chance I might escape one day...but even if he did think about the possibility, he refused to believe it. He was so bloody certain that I was going to become the world's greatest criminal mind, & make him proud..." (At this point, his tone became more humorous again.) "Well, his plan worked for about 17 years, but, of course, we all know what happened when Mouses 'great hopes for my future' were dashed into smithereens..." As a smile appeared on his face, Ratigan declared in delight, "And when everything was said & done, Mouses turned out to be wrong, after all. I did escape..."—his smile turned into a sad frown—"...but I am still not free."
Victoria looked at Ratigan in puzzlement, not quite sure what he meant by that last phrase. Getting increasingly upset & distressed with each word he said, Ratigan orated sadly to his friend, "Even in the light of the law-abiding world, the dark shadows of that evil world in the sewer lair continue to follow me...even when others can't see them." (Beat.) "Mouses has attacked my family once—when he assaulted Basil during the investigation of a fake case he had concocted to trap him—& although he hasn't attacked us again since that day, I still worry for my family's safety, as well as my own—now more than ever. I worry that Mouses might come back to bring me under his evil power again...And judging by the way he attacked Basil, I've got the feeling that that's precisely what he's set out to do."
At this point, Ratigan got up off of his harp stool, & paced the floor of his room in agitation, punctuating his words with exaggerated gestures as he continued speaking, his speech becoming more inflamed & impassioned with each passing second: "Don't ever make the mistake of underestimating Mouses Fiennes—he may be insane, Victoria, but he's notoriously persistent! He won't stop until the Baker Street Family is destroyed, & he's kidnapped me & Fidget...& made sure that we're both corrupted beyond the point of any & all redemption! The very thought of such a terrible fate happening to me & my loved ones haunts me wherever I go, & that is why I am not free—I may be reformed, but I must always be on my guard to make sure that I stay that way...Otherwise, Fidget & I will both be in hot water, & nobody will be able to do anything about it!" At the end of his monologue, Ratigan sank to his knees, & struck a dramatic pose.
Victoria went over to Ratigan, before placing a supportive paw on his shoulder, & bringing him out of his tragic reverie. While Ratigan looked at her as he slowly stood up on his feet, Victoria said comfortingly, "You mustn't let those things get to you, Ratigan! I understand that there's a need for you & your family to be cautious about Mouses...but if you worry too much about him corrupting you again, you won't be able to fully enjoy being reformed...being the good & caring rat that you are now, instead of the malevolent monster you once were. And if you don't savor every moment of your days as a do-gooder, & strive to make each of them worthwhile for yourself & others...is there any point to spending them, & being reformed at all?" (Ratigan stared at Victoria wistfully, then thoughtfully, as he took her words into consideration.) "We all have ghosts of the past that haunt us in some way. Some of these ghosts are harder for us to deal with than others...but we can face our inner demons, & confront them, if we make an effort to forget all about the dark things in our past...& look toward the bright things that await us in the future."
As he listened to these words of wisdom, Ratigan started to smile at Victoria. Meanwhile, the former princess continued with her optimistic oration: "And I know things will get better for you, Ratigan. Even if you don't think they will at first." Victoria removed her paw from Ratigan's shoulder, & gestured to herself as she added, "I mean, just look at me! I'm a living example of that!" Ratigan's smile widened, & Victoria returned the smile as she took his chin in her paw, & assured him ardently, "Please believe me, Ratigan, when I say that...someday, someday, you will be free from Mouses' rule over you. Now, I'm not saying that that's going to happen to you overnight...but it will happen nonetheless. I just know it will!"
His heart now filled with hope & happiness again, Ratigan leaned over to hug Victoria, smiling from ear to ear as he thanked his friend for her help & support. "Thank you, Victoria," Ratigan said sincerely. "Thank you...for everything."
Victoria gladly returned the hug, wrapping her arms around Ratigan, & patting his back. "It's no trouble at all, Ratigan," Victoria replied kindly. "I only thought it best that I offer you a few words of encouragement."
Ratigan gently parted from the hug, but continued to face Victoria & smile broadly at her as he chivalrously clasped her right paw between his two hands. Putting her left paw to her blushing cheeks, a flattered (but coy) Victoria smiled & posed humbly in reaction to Ratigan's response: "If I may be so honest, madam, your kind gesture turned out to be far more helpful than either you or I would have originally anticipated!" Victoria quickly moved her left paw over her mouth to stifle a bashful giggle. Ratigan continued to smile at Victoria, as he gently released her right paw, & walked back over to his harp stool. "And to show my utmost gratitude & appreciation for this noble deed," Ratigan remarked pleasantly, "I am going to reward the fair Princess Victoria with an encore of her favorite song."
With that, Ratigan sat down at his harp, & began playing Victoria's lullaby, not stopping until he got all the way to the very end. When Ratigan finally finished playing the song, he looked up to face Victoria, & sported a look of surprise when he saw what she was doing. The lullaby had lulled Victoria to sleep; she was now flopped over on Ratigan's bed, snoring gently. Ratigan walked over to his bed, smiling tenderly down at the sleeping Victoria. After watching his friend slumber for a few seconds, Ratigan bent down to lift Victoria off of the mattress, & carried her off to the upstairs guest room. As he tucked Victoria back into her own bed, Ratigan bid the former princess "goodnight". "Sleep tight, Your Majesty," the reformed rogue whispered warmly, before leaving Victoria alone in her quarters to catch up on some much-needed slumber.
Monday, November 2, 1897
The next morning was bright, beautiful, & sunny, with nothing but clear blue skies over Mouse London! The members of the Baker Street Family all got up bright & early, & headed down into the dining room for breakfast. Once again, Mrs. Judson had outdone herself with her culinary skills, & Basil & his loved ones were quite eager to help themselves to the delicious dairy delights & other morning morsels that the mousekeeper had prepared for them. When everyone was finally finished with breakfast, they all went upstairs to get dressed for the exciting day that lay ahead. When Victoria went back to the guest room, & realized she didn't have any other clothes to wear, she almost started to panic, but Basil was quick to assure his female companion, "Not to worry, Tori! I have just the right outfit for you to wear!" And, so, Basil dashed off for his bedroom closet, searching every nook & cranny for the clothes & accessories that would be most appropriate for adorning his lady friend's furson. [8] Finally, Basil got all the necessary items to complete Victoria's makeover, & he gave them to her to put on.
When Victoria came back out of her makeshift "dressing room", she couldn't resist posing & modeling in her new outfit, & Basil was delighted to see that it fit so well on her...in more ways than one. Victoria was now wearing a dark-fuschia fur "robe" (with a collar, cuffs, & trimmings that were all colored pink), a light-fuschia silk sash-belt, a fuschia silk dress (with long sleeves that ended in frilly cuffs), a rather long (& very frilly) pink cravat (with a circular fuschia brooch pinned to the top of it), a small dark-fuschia crown (decorated with golden ornamentation & turquoise gems), a (very frilly) pink silk veil, a pair of pink bead earrings, a pink bead choker, a thick golden bracelet (completely covered with large, oval-shaped fuschia gems) on her right wrist, a round rose-quartz ring on the first right finger, a round fuschia ring on the third right finger, a fuschia hoop bracelet (worn on her left wrist), an oval-shaped hot-pink ring on the second left finger, a pair of fuschia high-heel shoes, & a modest amount of makeup on her face. [9]
"Victoria," Basil complimented his comrade, "you look absolutely wonderful—no, ravishing!—in those clothes!"
"Thank you," Victoria replied with a modest smile. "So, where you & your family taking me today?"
"Oh, several places, Victoria!" Basil exclaimed exuberantly. "Places that are sure to steal your heart, capture your interest, & tickle your fancy!"
"Well, what are we waiting for?" Victoria asked enthusiastically. "Let's go!"
With that, Basil & Victoria joined the others in the living room, & once everyone was all together, they went outside onto the front porch to board the family van. As they drove to the first of their outing locations, the members of the Baker Street Family chitted & chatted with one another about various topics, while also taking time to compliment Victoria on her "awesome" new attire. As it happens, though, our heroes didn't have to travel very far to their first stop, for it was located on the mouse street of Derby Lane (known to us humans as Marylebone Road), a famous West End thoroughfare that ran perpendicular to Baker Street.
(CUE MUSIC: The 1st movement of "Spring", from Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons")
When the Baker Street Family & Victoria parked their car in front of Lower 719 Derby Lane, they were pleasantly surprised to see that the first part of their day-long outing would take place in this very building...the London Children's Mouseum! Over the double-doors that made up the entrance, there was a super-large sign welcoming everyone into the museum; the sign was decorated with brightly-colored paint, big letters in "fun" fonts, & fun-looking designs. The Baker Street Family & Victoria made their way inside the London Children's Mouseum; upon entering the building, the rodents immediately saw that it was a busy, bustling place of activity, filled with all sorts of interactive displays & fascinating exhibits of eye-catching design. Olivia, Cousin Timmy, & Fidget rushed off to check out these interactive attractions & activities, while Ratigan stood behind them with Victoria & the adults in the Baker Street Family, who were watching the younger children with interest. Ratigan looked a little more amused than interested, however.
In a playful tone, Ratigan wondered aloud, "I understand you wanted us to have another Baker Street Family outing day so that we could spend some time with Victoria, & get to know her a little more, but..."—he glanced aside at Basil with a smirk—"...are you sure that making the London Children's Mouseum our first stop was a...wise idea, Basil?"
Basil smiled at Ratigan, as did the other adults. "If you look past the word 'children', Ratigan, you'd find that this place actually has a lot of fascinating things..." Basil said, his words trailing off as he looked around the interior of the museum. Suddenly, something caught Basil's eye, & the detective turned his head around to gaze at the mysterious item. Upon seeing it, his eyes widened with interest, his eyebrows went up sharply, & he pointed in the direction he was looking. "Hallao...What's that?" Basil said to himself. "What's that? Looks interesting!"
Still gazing at the thing that had captured his attention, Basil walked over to it; Victoria subsequently followed him, while Ratigan & the other adults stayed to watch the younger Baker Street Kids interacting with the museum exhibits. Within moments, Basil & Victoria approached one of the interactive displays—a mechanical, Ferris-style spinning cogwheel with six thimbles (full of brightly-colored paint in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, & purple) attached to it. The table that the exhibit was on also had six metal trays that the paint fell into through the holes in the bottom of the thimbles, as well as sheets of paper & a set of moist towelettes. Basil knelt down by the exhibit, watching it with interest, as Victoria did the same, crouching on her knees beside Basil. Looking at Victoria for a second, then pointing to the exhibit, Basil remarked in astonishment, "Would you look at that, Victoria? What an amazing device!"
Victoria & Basil both leaned over a little to further scrutinize the interactive display. The two mice watched as each of the six colored paints fell out through the holes in the bottom of each thimble as it rose & fell, landing into a different tray—one for the red paint, one for the orange paint, one for yellow, one for green, one for blue, & one for purple. Basil turned to Victoria with a delighted grin, & with his face lighting up like a kid in a candy store, the detective said, "Ooh, Victoria, fingerpaints!" Basil rolled back the sleeves of his shirt & trenchcoat, before reaching a paw out to scoop up some of the red paint in his fingers. "I haven't used fingerpaints since I was a mouseling!" Basil added excitedly. With the other hand, Basil took one of the large sheets of paper on the table, & brought it closer to him so that he could begin painting. Victoria eagerly followed his lead, quickly finding enjoyment in the activity she & Basil were partaking in.
For the next several minutes, Basil & Victoria scooped up paint from each of the six trays, placing their pigment-coated fingers on the sheets of paper in front of them, & creating different pictures on the papers (i.e., a bluebird with a yellow beak & legs, a blossoming yellow sunflower with an orange center & a leafy green stem, a golden magnifying glass with blue-tinted glass, & a big red apple with a green leaf). At one point, Basil was humming merrily to himself as he used the six different paints to make a big rainbow on a blank piece of paper, followed by a smiling yellow sun with brilliant orange rays. Then, Basil added some blue paint to make the sky (leaving some white space for clouds), green paint to make the grass on the bottom of the picture, & different shades of each paint to make each member of the Baker Street Family—Olivia, Hiram, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, Fidget, Mrs. Judson, Dr. Dawson, Basil...& Victoria!
Victoria, who was busy doing another painting, looked aside for a moment to see what Basil was doing. She suddenly sported a surprised expression when she saw Basil kneeling over the painting he had just done, looking down at his completed portrait in a mixture of awe & puzzlement. After a few seconds of gazing at the picture, Basil looked up at Victoria with a sheepish, toothy grin, & gave a bashful chuckle. A flattered, amused Victoria giggled, then leaned over to kiss Basil on the nose. When her lips parted away from Basil's nose, Victoria daintily tapped her red-covered forefinger on the spot where she kissed him, & Basil quickly found himself starting to blush again...
After the Baker Street Family was finished exploring the London Children's Mouseum, they took the van to the mouse street of Munsteur Square (known to us humans as Munster Square), where an arts-&-crafts fair was held every day at No. 803. Here, there were lots of booths, stalls, & kiosks where one could purchase premade crafts, have items custom-made for them, or even make their own goodies & gifts! Basil & his loved ones immediately started checking out every stand & table they could find, looking for any items of interest that they would like to buy, make, or have made. And, oh, what marvelous things they found!
First, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could buy premade stained-glass windows. Basil got a window depicting the goddess Athena & her pet owl. Olivia got a window depicting a rainbow. Hiram got a window depicting a landscape at sunset. Cousin Timmy got a window depicting the classic painting "The Birth Of Venus" (one of his all-time favorite works of art). Ratigan got a window depicting an angel playing a harp. Dr. Dawson got a window depicting a caduceus. Victoria got a window depicting a crowned heart. Fidget & Mrs. Judson didn't find any stained-glass windows that they wanted. Once Basil purchased each of the windows he & his loved ones had found, the Baker Street Family pressed on with their perusal through the arts-&-crafts fair.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could make their own needlework. Basil made a sign with the words "Veridis Quo" (Latin for "Where truth is found"). [10] Olivia made a picture of a teddy bear. Hiram made a sign with the phrase "All work & no play makes Hiram a dull mouse". Cousin Timmy (who loved sewing, by the way) made a picture of an ace of hearts. Ratigan made a picture of the scales of justice. Dr. Dawson made a sign with the phrase "First do no harm" (the first part of the Hippocratic Oath he had taken so long ago...ah, the memories!). Mrs. Judson made a sign saying "Home Sweet Home". Victoria made a picture of her beloved twin sister, Queen Mousetoria. After everyone finished their respective needlework, they purchased them, & moved on to the next interesting place.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could have homemade home decor custom-made for them. Basil ordered a "tin dispatch box" monogrammed with the initials "B.S.F." (for "Baker Street Family", of course!). Olivia ordered a circus clown piggy bank. Hiram ordered a tartan throw rug. Cousin Timmy ordered a lap tray painted with checkerboard patterns. Ratigan ordered a statuette of the Mouse Greek god & legendary hero Furcules. Fidget ordered a trash bin that looked like an acorn (with the brown cap as the lid). Dr. Dawson ordered a sculpture of the angel Raphael (famous for his reputation as a healer). Mrs. Judson ordered a pair of bookends shaped like bunny rabbits. Victoria ordered a wall hanging of a butterfly made out of footprints. When all of their custom-made gifts were finally finished, Basil & his loved ones made their respective purchases, & moved on.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could have keychains custom-made for them. Basil ordered a keychain depicting a magnifying glass. Olivia ordered a keychain depicting a rainbow. Hiram ordered a keychain depicting a music box. Cousin Timmy ordered a keychain depicting a cameo of Queen Cleomousetra (one of his all-time favorite female historical figures). Ratigan ordered a keychain depicting a quill writing on a scroll. Fidget ordered a keychain depicting a bottle of soda (one of his several weaknesses!). Dr. Dawson ordered a keychain depicting the emblem of Queen Mousetoria's 66th Regiment. Mrs. Judson ordered a keychain depicting a feather duster. Victoria ordered a keychain depicting the royal crest (an emblem of her noble heritage that would always remind her where she came from). When all of the keychains were done being made, Basil purchased each one, & led his companions off to their next stop.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could have Christmas ornaments custom-made for them. Basil ordered an ornament of a violin. Olivia ordered an ornament of a Rainbow Christmas Cracker. Hiram ordered an ornament of a nutcracker. Cousin Timmy ordered an ornament of the famed medieval warrior Saint Marie De Touraine (one of his favorite historical figures, female role models, & Catholic martyrs, not to mention his patron saint). [11] Ratigan ordered an ornament of Baby Jesus in his manger. Fidget ordered an ornament of a Christmas present. Dr. Dawson ordered an ornament of plum pudding (one of his all-time favorite holiday desserts!). Mrs. Judson ordered an ornament of a gingerbread cookie. Victoria ordered an ornament of the Winter Queen (the heroine of one of her favorite childhood stories). Once all of their ornaments were finished, Basil & his loved ones made their transactions, & continued on their journey through the arts-&-crafts fair.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could buy premade tote bags. Basil got a bag adorned with Sidney Paget's drawings of his hero Sherlock Holmes. Olivia got a bag covered on both sides by Vincent Van Gogh's masterpiece "Wheatfield With Cypresses" (one of her all-time favorite paintings). Cousin Timmy got a bag decorated with the likenesses of famous female historical figures (including the two mentioned previously). Ratigan got a bag adorned with pop art of famous poet & playwright Sir William Shaftesbury. Fidget got a bag decorated with big, bright, & colorful comic strips. Mrs. Judson got a bag adorned with images of gourmet food & drinks. Victoria got a bag decorated with images of London tourist attractions. Hiram & Dr. Dawson chose not to get anything from the booth. Once our pint-sized protagonists purchased each of the tote bags they had found, they carried on with their trek through the fair.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could make their own bracelets. Olivia made a bracelet with rainbow stripes. Cousin Timmy made a bracelet decorated with the Flaversham clan's tartan pattern. Ratigan made a bracelet with the title covers of famous books. Mrs. Judson made a bracelet with various types of beautiful flowers. Victoria made a bracelet decorated with symbols of the Greek gods & goddesses. Basil, Hiram, Fidget, & Dr. Dawson decided not to make anything (at least on this trip). After everyone was done with their work, they purchased their newly-created bracelets, before moving on to the next place of interest.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could buy premade mugs. Basil got a mug decorated with pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Olivia got a rainbow tie-dye mug. Hiram got a mug that said "World's Greatest Daddy". Cousin Timmy got a mug decorated with sheet music. Ratigan got a mug decorated with books on rows of shelves. Dr. Dawson got a mug decorated with the crest of the British Rodential Army. Mrs. Judson got a mug that said "Home Is Where The Heart Is". Victoria got a mug that said "Suscipere Et Finire" (the motto of the royal family, which translates to "Support & Finish"). When Basil & his companions were done picking out their mugs, they made their respective purchases, & moved on to their last stop.
Finally, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a booth where one could make their own bookmarks. Basil made a bookmark depicting a lamppost glowing on a foggy night. Olivia made a bookmark depicting a Rainbow Jack-In-The-Box. Hiram made a bookmark depicting building blocks that spelled out the word "Industry". Cousin Timmy made a bookmark depicting an Old-Mousetorian-style pin-up portrait. Ratigan made a bookmark depicting the Northern Lights. Fidget made a bookmark depicting the Statue Of Liberty in New York Harbor. [12] Dr. Dawson made a bookmark depicting the Rod Of Asclepius. Mrs. Judson made a bookmark depicting Big Ben. Victoria made a bookmark depicting the royal scepter that her sister so often held. When everyone was done making their bookmarks, they purchased each one, before finally heading off for their next destination.
After exiting the arts-&-crafts fair, & boarding the van, Basil, his loved ones, & Victoria all showed each other the things they had gotten earlier. All of the rodents were delighted & fascinated with their paw-crafted prizes, & they couldn't stop chatting about them for the next several minutes. Basil, in particular, was surprised that Victoria had ordered that peculiar wall-hanging from the home decor booth. It was the only item she'd bought that had anything to do with mysteries or crimesolving. Interesting, the detective thought to himself as he complimented Victoria on her choice of decoration. I think Victoria & I just might have something in common...
(CUE MUSIC: "Piano Sonata No. 16 In C Major", by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)
Not too long afterward, Basil, Victoria, & the rest of the Baker Street Family arrived on the mouse boulevard of Art Street (known to us humans as Berners Street), where the third of their outing locations was. This place, located at Lower 301 Art Street, was a quaint little establishment known as Connie's Costume Shop. Basil & his comrades parked their van in front of the store, before getting out of the vehicle, & entering the building. Connie's Costume Shop was Spartan in style & furnishing, but made up for that with all the articles of attire it had on display. Wigs, disguises, masquerade / Halloween outfits, glasses, hats, tops, trousers, suits, masks, & props of just about every sort could be seen here. "My goodness, Basil, what is this place?" Victoria asked, looking around the costume shop in awe with the Baker Street Family.
"Oh, just your average costume shop...where I go to get my various disguises, masks, & whatnot for cases where I have to go incognito," Basil replied with a smile. "But non-detectives should also enjoy what it has to offer."
Upon hearing this, Victoria looked quite fascinated, as did the others. Everyone immediately went to try on some of the things in the store, & oh, what fun they had doing so! Fidget put on a fake moustache & a funny hat, along with some goofy glasses with eyeballs that sprung out. Olivia put on a fairy-princess outfit, complete with a magic wand that she waved around. Cousin Timmy dressed up in a samurai warrior's outfit, brandishing the fake sword that came with it. Victoria dressed up as a saloon girl, unable to resist doing can-can kicks & other dance moves. Hiram put on a Western cowboy's outfit, complete with red bandanna & Stetson hat. Dr. Dawson dressed up in a pirate captain's costume, complete with a spyglass that he looked through. Ratigan dressed up as a vampire, completing the sinister look by swishing his cape in front of his face (just like in a horror movie!). Mrs. Judson put on a jungle explorer's outfit. Basil dressed up as a French cabaret singer, complete with striped shirt, pencil-thin moustache, & beret. And our heroes didn't stop there! When they were done wearing their previous costumes, the Baker Street Family & Victoria kept on looking through boxes & trying on stuff.
"Wow, dis place is neat!" Fidget marveled, as he took some costume items out of a box, & put them on.
"Tell me about it!" Olivia agreed, putting the finishing touches on her mermaid costume.
"I wish we could stay here forever...& ever...& ever..." Cousin Timmy sighed, now dressed up like a Viking.
Meanwhile, Basil was standing in front of some shelves in another part of the costume shop. Just for a lark, he donned the disguise of a ghost by grabbing a white sheet laid out over a cardboard box, & draping it over himself. After making sure he was properly cloaked, Basil put his paws to his mouth, & chuckled, before tiptoeing away as he said mischievously, "Ooh, Victoria is going to be so spooked!" On the other side of the shelves Basil was in front of earlier, Victoria was rooting through some items in a costume box. She stopped as her ears perked up to a wailing sound...but, then, she went back to her business, carrying on as though nothing had happened. Unbeknownst to Victoria, Basil (still dressed in his ghost disguise) slowly tiptoed from behind the shelves, turned a corner, & crept up behind Victoria. The detective waved his arms about as he wailed spookily, "Victoooooorrrriiiaaa...Oooohh..."
This time, Victoria stopped & turned around to face the source of the sound. She looked frightened when she saw what appeared to be a ghost standing in front of her! "Oh, my heavens!" Victoria cried, spooked out of her wits. Stepping back away from the "specter", & pointing a shaking finger at it, a scared Victoria stammered, "A g-g-ghost!" Not watching where she was going, Victoria accidentally tripped over her shoe, & with a yelp, she started to fall back into the costume box she was rooting through earlier. Before Victoria could land into said box, the "ghost" swiftly rushed over to catch her in his arms just in time. Victoria took a moment to regain her bearings, then looked up at her rescuer in puzzlement...before Basil reached up a paw to yank off the sheet he was wearing, revealing himself to a relieved Victoria.
"Oh, Basil, you scared me!" Victoria gasped. "I thought you really were a ghost!"
"No, Victoria, it's just me...in the flesh," Basil replied, shaking his head with a smile on his face.
Victoria's own smile of relief turned into an annoyed frown, & she pouted at Basil, saying sulkily, "That was a mean trick!" In a huff, Victoria bonked Basil on the nose with her fist...before feeling her irritation disappear as quickly as it had arrived. Now back to her usual pleasant demeanor, Victoria smiled once more, & leaned over to kiss Basil's nose again. Basil blushed & sported a lovestruck grin as he set Victoria down onto her feet...& fainted to the floor! Goodness, does Basil always do that when a girl kisses him? Victoria thought to herself. If so, he has no reason to feel ashamed about it—I actually think it's quite adorable!
After leaving the costume shop, the Baker Street Family & Victoria stopped at a nearby restaurant for an early lunch, then went to the mouse street of Oxford Street (known to us humans by the same name). Here, at Lower 194, there was a great place where our heroes could get some delicious desserts to appease their appetites—Mr. Swissly's Ice Cream Parlor! Upon entering the eatery, the Baker Street Family & Victoria seated themselves at the bar-like counter, & within minutes after placing their respective orders, they all found themselves eating various flavors of ice cream—Olivia had rainbow sherbet, Fidget had a large sundae, Cousin Timmy ate a cone of Swiss-cheese ice cream, Ratigan had Neapolitan, Dr. Dawson had chocolate, Mrs. Judson had mint-&-chocolate-chip, Hiram had prune-flavored, & Basil & Victoria both had vanilla. When Basil realized that he & Victoria were sharing the same type of treat, Basil couldn't believe his eyes! Staring in awe at Victoria's bowl of ice cream, the detective marveled, "You like vanilla, too?"
"I love it!" Victoria exclaimed excitedly in between bites of ice cream. "But I had no idea you were fond of that flavor!" As she took another mouthful of dessert, & subsequently swallowed it, Victoria thought to herself in delight, As if Basil & I didn't like so many of the same things already! We both like adventure, reading, mysteries, music, history, art, children, & so on & so forth...Not to mention we even like many of the exact same stories, & movies, & TV shows, & radio programs, & magazines, & songs, & artworks, & foods, et cetera...Why, it's almost as if he & I were twins! It's astounding how much you can learn about another furson just through conversation & interaction alone! Turning to face Basil with an ecstatic smile, Victoria added, "I can't believe you & I have so much in common, Basil! It's absolutely amazing!"
With that said, Victoria went back to eating her ice cream. Gazing at his friend with a thoughtful stare, Basil nodded his head a little as he agreed, "Yes...It is amazing, Victoria..." As he went back to eating his ice cream with the others, Basil mused mentally, The more time I spend with Victoria, the more I'm beginning to like her! I wonder if there's a chance we might become more than just friends...
(CUE MUSIC: "Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba", from George Frederic Handel's "Solomon")
Early that afternoon, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to the mouse street of Mouseum Road (known to us humans as Great Russell Street), where the sixth of their outing locations was. Within a matter of seconds, Basil & his companions were walking together through the lobby / main gallery of the British Mouseum & Library, a place filled with all kinds of artifacts & exhibits related to British mouse history. Soon, the Baker Street Family & Victoria approached the open, curtain-flanked mousehole-entrance of a corridor leading into one of the museum's several wings. After passing through said entrance & corridor, our pint-sized protagonists found themselves joining a tour group that would take them through the British Mouseum & Library a bit more briskly (after all, they had so little time, & so much to do!).
The wing the rodents were currently in was the first stop on the tour, & it was dedicated to the Middle Mouse Ages. Suits of armor, coats of arms, shields, swords, collections of the royal crown jewels, regal props & attire, & medieval artworks could be seen everywhere in the area. As the Baker Street Family, Victoria, & the other tourists traveled through the wing together, they watched their young female tour guide lecture on all the medieval memorabilia in their midst, providing plenty of interesting information for all the members of her entourage.
At one point, the tour guide stood by a glass display case that housed an old, leather-bound book with its pages open to reveal the text upon them. Gesturing to said book, the tour guide declared to her throng of tourists, "And over here, inside this glass case, is where we display the open pages of the ancient book written by medieval mouse sorcerers who predicted that a terrible 'League Of Villains' would rise to power shortly before the last century of the second millennium...but their attempts to spread vice & wickedness throughout the mouse world would be thwarted by an unlikely group of rodents who would band together to defeat the forces of evil!"
Upon hearing these words, the Baker Street Family, Victoria, & the other tourists looked up in shock, surprise, awe, amazement, & wonder. Some of the tourists began talking amongst themselves in their excitement. "Man, can you believe it?" asked a male mouse tourist.
"I wonder if that prophecy will really come true," the mouse tourist's female partner mused.
"Is there really a League Of Villains?" the first of a pair of squirrel tourists pondered.
"Could be," replied the second squirrel tourist, shrugging his shoulders.
"If they rise to power, who's going to stop them?" a bat tourist inquired, turning to face a rat tourist with a worried look.
"Yes, who could that unlikely group of rodents be?" the rat tourist wondered aloud, scratching his chin thoughtfully. At this point, all the tourists turned to face the Baker Street Family & Victoria.
"Umm...why are you all staring at us?" Dr. Dawson questioned, a little unnerved by all the extra attention he & his friends were getting.
After a pause, the bat tourist pointed to our heroes, & asked them, "Are you the Baker Street Family?"
"Yes...we are..." Basil replied hesitantly.
The two squirrel tourists approached the Baker Street Family & Victoria, staring at them with wide-eyed interest & fascination. The first squirrel tourist pointed at Basil & his comrades as he addressed them (but not without accidentally poking Basil's deerstalker cap with his finger, & causing it to fall off of his head!). "Hey...Maybe, you could be that unlikely group of rodents mentioned in the prophecy!" the squirrel tourist exclaimed, intrigued by the thought of it.
Before he could answer, Basil swiftly bent down to catch his deerstalker cap in his paws, grabbing it just before it hit the ground...then moved back upright, & placed his hat back on top of his head as he faced the two squirrel tourists, & replied with a pleasant smile, "Well, it's possible...but at this present time, I can't say for 100% certain whether we're that particular band of heroes or not." When the two squirrel tourists finally walked off, Basil leaned down to whisper to Victoria & his loved ones in disbelief, "Us...as the world's greatest crimefighting force?"
Shaking his head, Hiram declared doubtfully, "I don't think the powers that be would burden us with such a great responsibility like that..." (He slowly turned to face Dr. Dawson.) "Would they?"
"Well, we have no way of really knowing for ourselves," Dr. Dawson answered, shrugging his shoulders. "We're not psychic."
"But what if the prophecy comes true, & we do turn out to be that unlikely group of heroes?" Mrs. Judson asked.
"Well, whatever will happen, will happen, Mrs. Judson," was all Basil had to say in response. "Que sera sera, as they say in Spain." He paused for a second, & added, "But until that time, let's try not to talk about it." With that, Basil, Victoria, & the rest of the Baker Street Family carried on with their tour of the British Mouseum & Library, enjoying all the marvelous sights, sounds, & other sensations that the educational institution had to offer.
Upon finishing their museum excursion, the Baker Street Family & Victoria drove to their next destination: the London Mouse Mini-Mall. As Basil & his friends traveled through the shopping center, Victoria was absolutely captivated by every single store & attraction she saw! The princess wanted to explore every nook & cranny of the mall...but when Victoria remembered that Basil & his family had additional plans for the rest of their day out, she decided not to stay too long, & picked six select stores to visit for today's trip. And, so, our heroes followed Victoria's lead as they trekked together through the London Mouse Mini-Mall, going wherever their companion wished to shop.
First, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to Gilly Gouda's Garments, where Victoria picked out some new outfits she wanted to buy. As the Baker Street Family came to discover, Victoria had an eye for fashionable attire, & the clothes she picked out were quite befitting & becoming to a princess who mingled with commoners. Fancy dresses, silk nightclothes, fine jumpsuits, old-fashioned swimsuits, nice tops & trousers, lovely accessories...all these costumes, & more, ended up going into Victoria's shopping bags! Once all the clothes were properly paid for, Victoria & the Baker Street Family went to their next stop—Bleu's Books (which happened to be the same bookstore that Basil & his loved ones visited on their first trip to the mall).
Upon arriving at Bleu's Books, the Baker Street Family decided that they didn't need to buy anything here for now, & left Victoria to scour the shelves for any items of interest. It didn't take long for Victoria to find a good selection of books to take home! Among the literary works she got, were "Whatever We Decide" (by Charles Delbert), "Primrose Path" (by Sophocles Braveheart), "World Without End" (by Amergin Burgess), "As They Were Watching" (a novel), "Just What The Doctor Ordered" (a cookbook filled with recipes for healthy foods), "Perilous Adventures By Land & Sea" (another novel), & "Poisonous Beauty" (a murder-mystery novel). As soon as all the tomes were paid for, Victoria put the newly-purchased books into her shopping bags, & followed the Baker Street Family back outside.
Next, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to the Mousy's department store, where Victoria "splurged" on cosmetics, perfume, & jewelry (she made plans to visit the other departments in future visits to the mall). [13] Among all the things she found to buy at Mousy's, there was one item in particular that Victoria simply had to buy! It was an elegantly-shaped bottle of blue perfume, labeled with the name of "La Cote D'Azur". "My sister loved to wear this perfume when she was growing up!" Victoria reminisced fondly, as she took the bottle, & put it with her other goodies. "Sometimes, she would share some of it with me, too!" When Victoria had found all the things she wanted to buy, she went to the check-out counter to make her purchases, & subsequently put her newly-bought items in her shopping bags.
Afterwards, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to the music-box store, where they browsed through the shelves for anything of interest. At one point, a particular music box caught Victoria's eye, & she went to take a closer look at it. The music box was shaped like a crescent moon, with a beautiful fairy princess balancing on her tiptoes on the bottom half. When she turned the wind-up key on the side, Victoria was pleasantly surprised to hear a tinny rendition of the royal lullaby flowing forth from the mechanical contraption, as the fairy figurine slowly twirled around in time to the music. With her violet eyes lighting up in delight, Victoria asked her friends, "Oh, I simply must have this music box! May I buy it?" When Basil told her to go right ahead, Victoria carefully took the music box, & took it to the check-out counter for purchasing. After taking the necessary amount of money from Victoria, the cashier safely wrapped up the music box in a plush-padded container, where it would be safe & sound on the way back to Baker Street.
Then, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to the record store. Upon entering the shop, Victoria immediately started browsing through the shelves, looking for any CDs, tapes, or records that she wanted to buy. Within minutes, she found a treasure trove of awesome albums—ranging from classical, to pop, to easy listening, to rock-&-roll, & many other genres in between—by various artists, bands, & composers. [14] Already, Victoria couldn't wait to listen to each album when she got back home! With all of her chosen CDs & tapes in paw, Victoria took the items to the check-out counter, & paid for each one, before putting them all in her shopping bags, & following her friends to their final stop.
Finally, the Baker Street & Victoria went to the Mousetoria's Secret gift store. [15] Victoria thought there would be a few things here that she'd like to buy, & she immediately started looking for items of interest. Soon, she found quite a collection of gifts & goodies to purchase! Among these things, were a statuette of famous literary heroine Ruby O'Reilly, a jewelry box in the shape of the Ark Of The Covenant, a rotating desk tray fashioned like a carousel, a set of paperweights shaped like chess pieces, a set of fine china depicting images of famous historical figures, & a wall hanging of a colorful Japanese landscape. After picking out all the things she wanted to buy, Victoria went to the check-out counter to make her purchases. Once she had put all her newly-bought gifts into her shopping bags, Victoria followed the Baker Street Family out of the mall, & to their next outing location.
(CUE MUSIC: "Von Fremden Landern Und Menschen", from Robert Schumann's "Kinderszenen")
Regents Park was always a beautiful place to visit, but it was especially so in the autumn, when the leaves on the trees donned lovely hues of red, orange, golden, & brown. On the park's playground, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget were playing with some other kids on the various equipment, while Basil, Victoria, Hiram, Mrs. Judson, Dr. Dawson, & a few parents watched them lovingly from the park benches they were seated on. "Look at them...Don't they look so happy?" Victoria asked, turning to smile at Basil & Hiram as she spoke to them in a gentle tone.
"Yes, they do," Hiram replied.
Turning back to look at the kids (as Hiram & Basil did the same), Victoria said, "It really warms my heart to see children at times like this." As she & the other grownups continued to watch the Baker Street Kids & the other rodentlings playing happily together on the playground, Victoria continued wistfully, "They're so lucky to live with good, loving parents in a safe home, with decent food & clothes always ready for them...No troubles or worries to fret over...Just the sweet, wonderful blessings of a happy, healthy life...the life I often wish I never lost." (She let out a sigh.) "I sometimes envy them." When they heard this, Basil & Hiram turned to stare at the wistfully-frowning Victoria with puzzled looks. Bowing her head, Victoria whispered sadly, "I envy the children...who are much more fortunate than I was when I came of age...& yet, I am happy for them. They will never have to experience the horrors of living in a world of cruelty & wickedness...a world with no light."
Basil placed a comforting paw on Victoria's shoulder, causing her to lift her head up a little to look at him as he said encouragingly, "You are just as lucky as any of these children, Victoria. There is one thing that you were fortunate to have had...& that was the ability to find a better world."
"A world of servitude & poverty?" Victoria hazarded with a bitter edge to her voice.
"A world...of companionship," Basil replied, smiling at Victoria. Her spirits now lifted, Victoria returned the smile at Basil, then looked back with Hiram at the children on the playground. Before rejoining the others in watching the rodentlings, Basil continued to smile & stare at Victoria for a few seconds, admiring her inner strength & fortitude. Victoria may not always realize this, the detective thought, but she's one of the strongest women I have ever in my life! I wish all females could be as tough, & brave, & fearless, & independent as her! If I could think of one word to describe Victoria, it would be..."survivor". Yes...She's a survivor!
A little later in the day, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget were playing a game of "Explorers" on the park green, not too far away from the Black Forest. (As we have described to you before, the Black Forest was a deep, dark "forest" made of large, thick bushes with gnarled, dark-gray branches & blackish-green leaves that were closely crowded together, blocking out the sunlight that would otherwise filter through them.) Olivia climbed up onto a great big rock, before standing proudly upon it as she struck a heroic pose, & cried adventurously, "All right, explorers! As leader of today's expedition, I decree that we shall venture where no mouse, rat, bat, squirrel, or shrew has gone before!"
"Which would be...?" Cousin Timmy asked, prompting Olivia to suddenly break out of game character, & look down at her addressee. Cousin Timmy stood with Ratigan & Fidget at the base of the rock; all three rodentlings were looking up at Olivia curiously, awaiting to hear further instructions from their self-appointed "leader".
Up on the rock, Olivia looked back up with a blank stare, not quite sure what to say in response...but, then, an idea came to her! With said idea fresh on her mind, Olivia cleared her throat softly into her right fist, & quickly returned to her role of the adventurous explorer. Back in character, the little Scotsmouse pointed to her planned destination, & answered, "We shall venture into...the deep, dark, scary Black Forest!"
"Oooooooh..." Ratigan, Fidget, & Cousin Timmy muttered in unison, sporting looks of great interest & fascination on their faces. This game of "Explorers" was going to be very intriguing, that was for certain!
"Which of you brave & fearless voyagers will join me in my quest?" Olivia called out adventurously to her cousin & surrogate siblings. When Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget all raised their paws in reply, Olivia smiled, pleased with the boys' decision to accompany her on her adventure. "Excellent!" Olivia shouted merrily as she stood firm in her heroic pose, her figure dramatically backlit by the sun. Pointing to the Baker Street Kids' nearby "playground", & turning her head to gaze with a determined glare in that direction, Olivia exclaimed, "Now, let's sally forth, explorers! The dangers & wonders of the Black Forest await us!" With an eager smile on her face, Olivia jumped down off of the great rock, then fell to the ground, before landing swiftly on her feet with Ratigan, Fidget, & Cousin Timmy. The boys all watched as Olivia ran off in the direction of their destination, crying out, "Tally-ho!"
Fidget, Cousin Timmy, & Ratigan immediately followed Olivia, & within a few short seconds, the Baker Street Kids approached the entrance to the Black Forest. Using his mighty strength, Ratigan pulled back some of the branches to make way for Olivia, Timmy, & Fidget. After watching his younger siblings go into the forest, Ratigan followed them inside, letting the branches snap shut behind him like the doors of a gate being slammed closed. Alone to fend for themselves in this eerie environment, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget traveled together through the darkness of the Black Forest. The boys were looking around warily as they trailed closely behind Olivia, who marched through the woods with a confident stride & a fearless, adventurous expression. "Uh, Livvy...are you sure this is a good idea?" Cousin Timmy asked timidly, not liking the look of his sinister, shadowy surroundings.
"Of course, it is!" Olivia replied optimistically. "Explorers always know what they're doing!"
"Yeah, sure!" Fidget agreed with a nervous chuckle & a toothy, anxious grin. The little bat's grin soon faded, however, & he didn't look very convinced of his sister's words. "Right..." And, so, Olivia, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, & Fidget continued walking through the Black Forest. The deeper they traveled into the woods, the boys looked increasingly nervous & scared, & Olivia gradually looked less & less confident. Maybe, this wasn't the best idea after all, Olivia thought.
It had been about an hour since the Baker Street Kids entered the Black Forest. Now, as they stopped in the middle of a small clearing, Olivia was getting quite worried. Ratigan was bored & ticked-off. Fidget & Cousin Timmy were absolutely terrified. As the glaring Ratigan, the shivering Fidget, & the wide-eyed, thumb-sucking Cousin Timmy stood behind her, Olivia looked around nervously, no longer sure of what to do or where they should go. "Livvy...Are we lost?" Fidget asked as he shook & shivered fearfully, with his teeth chattering every few seconds.
"Ummm...no...I just need to find another shortcut to that...place...we were at...earlier..." Olivia replied, still looking around the Black Forest with that same nervous expression as before.
Ratigan glowered angrily at Olivia, already unimpressed with her failed attempts to lead them out of the Black Forest, & now having to deal with the frustration of her efforts to convince them that she was still sure of what she was doing! "We're lost, aren't we?" Ratigan asked flatly.
"W-W-We're not lost, Ratigan," Olivia said with a gulp, still looking around timidly as she tried vainly to find an exit path. "We're..." (Ratigan sighed, & rolled his eyes.) "Well, we're..." (Ratigan slapped his paw to his forehead in irritation, shaking his head to & fro.) "We're just...a little...misguided..."
Now at the boiling point, Ratigan suddenly stopped shaking his head, & threw out his arms with an exasperated scream. Bending down over Olivia & poking her nose thrice with his forefinger to punctuate the words of her name, Ratigan snapped, "Olivia Victoria Flaversham..." Then, Ratigan swiftly, suddenly loomed over a wincing Olivia, glaring at the mouseling with wild, crazed eyes & a primeval look of anger on his scarlet-red face, as his gloved hands quivered violently in front of his chest, & his fingers curled into the shape of gnarled claws. As he did all this, the reformed rogue yelled with rage, "If you haven't the foggiest idea where the bloody heck we are, then just say so!"
Ratigan looked like he was about to strangle Olivia if she didn't give him a straight answer—so great was his fury & frustration! [16] Not wanting to get on her brother's bad side, Olivia finally came clean (albeit with some reluctance) about their situation. "Um...We're lost," Olivia admitted.
When Olivia made this critical confession, Fidget gazed at his sister with a panicked stare, & pointed an accusatory finger at her, as he exclaimed, "I knew it! I knew we were lost da whole time! And you lied to us, & said you knew where we were goin'!" Doing an exaggerated imitation of Olivia, Fidget ranted mockingly, "Oh, explorers always know what dey're doin'! Dey know where dey're goin'! Blah-blah-blah...We can find our way out of here! I just know da exit's dat way!"
"Well, I did...for a while, anyway," Olivia said sheepishly.
"And, now, we're stuck here!" Fidget griped, extending his wings out & letting them drop down by his sides, as he glared angrily at Olivia. Still glowering at the Glaswegian girl, Fidget stomped over to Olivia, & stood toe-to-toe with her as he poked her on the nose with his forefinger, & admonished, "You are gonna be soooo grounded when Basil & da grownups find us!" Fidget then sharply turned away from Olivia, tossing his wings up into the air in irritation, as he added, "If dey find us..."—he let his wings droop down at his sides again, signaling his surrender to whatever fate would await the Baker Street Kids—"...which I doubt!" Fidget stuffed his webbed hands into his trousers pockets, & trudged off to his earlier spot, sulking bitterly all the while.
Olivia watched Fidget walk away with a concerned look, before turning to face her cousin & brothers. Ratigan & Fidget still glared furiously at Olivia, while Cousin Timmy stared in the mouseling's direction with eyes wide as saucers, still sucking his thumb & not really looking at her. Nevertheless, Olivia tried to encourage the others, hoping to bring their spirits back up. "Don't worry!" Olivia declared. "We'll get out of the Black Forest! We just need to keep trying to find an exit!"
"Olivia, we've been searching for an exit for over an hour!" Ratigan remarked. "I'd rather we not search anymore, unless you want us all to keel over from exhaustion!"
"Then what do you suggest we do, Ratigan?" Olivia asked, glaring at her surrogate sibling as she placed her paws on her hips.
"Wait," Ratigan replied simply. "Wait & hope that somebody will come find us." Terrified at the thought of never being found again, Olivia & the other Baker Street Kids stared off into space, clueless as to how they would find their way out of this place. Worried & dejected, the four youths stood in the desolate, lonely clearing in the center of the Black Forest, hoping that the grownups would be able to figure out what happened to them, & find them before the cloak of night's darkness fell over the city.
Not too long afterward, Basil, Victoria, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson were at the area of the park green where the Baker Street Kids were playing earlier. The adults were looking around vainly for the children, & crying out for them. "Olivia...Timmy..." Hiram called out with a paw cupped to his mouth.
"Wee ones, where are you?" Mrs. Judson asked.
"Children, it's time to go!" Dr. Dawson declared.
"Ratigan? Fidget? Timmy? Olivia? Where are you?" Victoria inquired. When no one answered, the former princess sighed, & wondered to herself, "Oh, where could they be?" Her mind racing with worry, Victoria walked over to Basil, who was at the base of the great big rock. As he peered through his magnifying glass, Basil was stooping down over four different sets of foot impressions that had been made into the grass. After joining Basil at his side, Victoria stooped down over the footprints, & gazed at them curiously. "What are you looking at, Basil?" Victoria asked.
Continuing to scrutinize the instep indentations he had found, Basil replied, "These sets of footprints right here. They were made into the grass approximately an hour ago." Enlarging each group of footprints with his magnifying glass as he mentioned them, Basil continued, "You'll notice that each set was formed by a pair of black party shoes, patent-leather, size 3...suede tuxedo shoes, also size 3, with a small buckle on their fronts...black boots of nondescript style, patent-leather, size 2...& a floppy leather shoe, approximately size 7, with a wooden peg-leg. These are definitely the children's footprints. But for some reason, I'm having trouble figuring out exactly where they lead."
Victoria & Basil both looked up at one another, then down at the footprints again. Then, much to Basil's shock & surprise, Victoria suddenly got down onto her hands & knees; she subsequently proceeded to crawl away from Basil, gazing closely at the footprints as she followed their trail across the green. Basil immediately followed after Victoria, trying to catch up with her. Totally bewildered as to what his lady friend was up to, Basil asked, "Victoria, what on Earth are you doing...?"
After scrutinizing the shoe impressions for a bit more, Victoria swiftly hopped up onto her feet, & pointed in the direction that the Baker Street Kids' footprints were going. As she gestured yonder (with Basil following her gaze), Victoria cried, "The sets of footprints lead into that grove of bushes! The children probably went there!"
With that, Victoria took off towards the entrance of the Black Forest, following the footprints' trail. Basil started to run after Victoria, waving an arm to beckon for the other adults to come along as he called out to them, "Hiram, Dawson, Mrs. Judson, follow us! Quickly!"
Within seconds of hurrying to catch up with their friends, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson made it to the entrance of the Black Forest with Basil & Victoria. The five rodents didn't look too pleased when they saw that their only way in was blocked by the thick branches. "Oh, drat..." Hiram lamented, his face falling in disappointment. "How will we get in?"
After thinking for a moment, the wheels in Victoria's head began turning. Brightening, she exclaimed, "I have an idea!" Victoria quickly went over to pull back some of the branches, clearing the entryway to the Black Forest. Basil, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson smiled happily when they saw that Victoria had found a way into the forest for them. They turned to face her with delighted grins, as Victoria returned the smile at them.
"Oh, Victoria, how clever of you!" Basil praised. Turning back to face the adults with an excited look, Basil motioned for them to follow him into the forest, & cried, "Come along, everyone!" With that, Basil, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson all scampered into the Black Forest. Victoria followed them, letting the branches snap shut behind her.
Moments later, Basil, Victoria, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson were traveling together through the Black Forest, looking around for the children. (Victoria, by the way, was taking the lead with Basil.) As he scanned his surroundings for any sign of the Baker Street Kids, Basil said, "Hmmm...they should be around here somewhere..." Everyone then stopped walking, & watched as Basil stooped down for a moment. Crouching down on his knees, Basil took out his magnifying glass from his trenchcoat pocket, & looked for the children's footprints...but his face fell when he saw that they were nowhere to be found! A crestfallen Basil stood back up on his feet; Victoria, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson watched the detective with concerned looks as he put his paws to his forehead, & gave into despair. "Oh, blast, the footprints have disappeared!" Basil wailed in lament. "How will we possibly find the children now?"
Victoria couldn't believe what she was seeing! You would think that a crimesolver of his caliber wouldn't jump to conclusions like that! the former princess thought in unpleasant astonishment. For shame...He's the Great Mouse Detective, for heaven's sake! He should know better! Glaring irritatedly at Basil, Victoria reprimanded, "A good detective does not rush, Basil! He—or she—looks thoroughly for clues in every possible place, & then makes his judgement as to whether or not he is able to solve the case!"
When he heard Victoria say these things, Basil instantly broke out of his melancholy state, & calmed down. Basil then cracked a sheepish grin at Victoria, drumming his fingers together as he tried to explain his gaffe with a nervous stammer, "Y-Y-Yes, of course, Victoria." (He chuckled bashfully.) "I-It's just that after searching for the children for over an hour, I..."
"I understand you're under duress, Basil," Victoria admonished, "but this is no time to lose your proverbial head!" Victoria crouched down & looked at the ground again, but in a different direction than the one Basil was looking at earlier. She quickly found the four sets of footprints, & rose to her feet in excitement upon making her discovery. Pointing to the trail of shoe markings, Victoria exclaimed, "The footprints are leading that way!" With that, Victoria dashed down the patterned path, as Basil, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson followed her, hoping they could find the Baker Street Kids before sunset.
Not too long afterward, Basil, Victoria, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson were in another part of the Black Forest. The branches were beginning to space out a little—a sign that Basil & his friends could be getting close to the clearing. (In these woods, though, there was never any way to be 100% certain...) "Victoria," Hiram asked, "how much longer do you think it'll be till we find the wee ones?"
Unbeknownst to the toymaker, Victoria had picked up on an auditory cue that just might be an auditory clue. Wanting to analyze the potential lead further, Victoria shushed Hiram, then put a paw to her cocked ear. Basil, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson did the same as their ears tuned in to the faint sound of sniffling & crying. The adults all listened to the noise for a while, then looked at one another, wondering what to make of it. Victoria was the first to realize the significance of the strange sound, & she told her colleagues of the careful conclusion she came to: "They can't be too far away! Come on!" Victoria beckoned for Basil & the others to follow her, & they all ran off in the direction that the sound was coming from.
In the clearing, Olivia was sitting down on the ground, sniffling & crying into a handkerchief that Ratigan provided for her. Fidget was on the verge of tears himself, & Cousin Timmy was lying on the ground in a fetal position. Basil, Victoria, Hiram, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson rushed into the clearing, looking happy & excited as they saw the Baker Street Kids, & went over to greet them. "Olivia! Timmy!" Hiram exclaimed happily. "We found you!"
Olivia (still with tears falling down her face) sniffled & looked up after she heard Hiram calling out to her. The once-melancholy mouseling burst into a wide smile, & cried cheerfully, "Daddy!" Hiram scooped his daughter up into his arms, & gave her a great big hug. As she returned her father's embrace, & cuddled him, Olivia said, "Oh, Daddy, we thought we'd lost you forever!"
Hiram kissed Olivia on the cheek, & petted the fur on the side of her face, as he replied reassuringly, "Not at all, baby! Victoria & Basil helped us find exactly where you were!" Delighted with the news, Olivia smiled up at Hiram, then hugged him again, happy to be safely back with her loved ones.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Judson & Dr. Dawson went over to Fidget & Cousin Timmy (who was still in the same fetal position as earlier). "Timmy! Fidget!" Dr. Dawson said, as he approached the two rodentlings with a happy heart & a smile of relief.
"Thank goodness you're all right!" Mrs. Judson exclaimed ecstatically, picking Cousin Timmy up into her arms, & cradling him tenderly. When Cousin Timmy didn't respond to her voice, Mrs. Judson grew a little concerned. "Timmy?" the mousekeeper asked, looking down to see if the boy was all right. To her assurance, Cousin Timmy had simply fallen asleep; the Flaversham lad was snoring lightly as he dozed & dreamed, his slumber appearing to be a very peaceful one. Glad to see that her earlier worries were unjustified, Mrs. Judson chuckled, then reached out a paw to lift up Cousin Timmy's brown cap, & tousle his fur-hair.
"It's a good thing you had Victoria to help you out, Basil!" Ratigan said with a smile. "Otherwise, it might have taken you a bit longer to find us."
Basil turned to look at Victoria, who smiled humbly at him as she struck a coy pose. "Yes...I should like to thank you, Victoria, for your assistance," the detective declared.
"It's no problem at all, Basil," Victoria replied sweetly, as she took Basil's chin in her paw...& kissed him on the nose. Totally disarmed by this gentle gesture, Basil could see little images of hearts dancing in front of his eyes as he moaned a bit, & fainted to the ground. The caped crimefighter had a feeling that he just been bitten by the love bug, & who knew what would become of the Great Mouse Detective if this delightful disorder continued to take hold of his heart?
After leaving Regents Park, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to a dance hall on the mouse road of Joplin Street (known to us humans as Drummond Street). It was still late in the afternoon, & Basil & his companions had some time left to kill before they went to the last of their outing places. The dance hall was a grand ballroom with a very large mahogany floor, giant brightly-painted walls decorated with beautiful paintings & other decorations, & an elegant domed roof supported by columns & flying buttresses. Crystal chandeliers dangled from the ceiling, fancy furniture & exotic plants lined the bottom of each wall, & a big stage dominated one side of the building. On this stage, a small orchestra provided music for all the guests to dance to. Victoria & the members of the Baker Street Family all had a great time dancing with each other. At one point, Olivia danced with Basil. "This is so much fun!" the little Scotsmouse exclaimed ecstatically.
"It sure is, Olivia!" a beaming Basil replied, picking Olivia up by the underarms, & spinning her around (much to her delight). When he set his goddaughter back down on the ground, Basil continued dancing with Olivia; it really was a lovely, heartwarming sight seeing the mouse world's greatest supersleuth bonding with a child he had come to care so deeply about. Of course, the fun didn't stop there..."Hey, nonny-nonny, hey, nonny-nonny, ha-cha-cha!" Basil chanted cheerfully, doing a bouncy, buoyant triple-step with Olivia.
"You're funny, Basil!" Olivia said with a giggle, before letting her godfather engage with her in a curious fusion of a waltz & a tango, followed by other dances.
At the same time, Mrs. Judson was dancing with Fidget...or, rather, trying to dance with him. Truth be told, Fidget had never been a very good dancer—well, not since he received his peg-leg, anyway—& although he agreed to dance with his family members out of politeness, he wasn't too keen on the idea of carrying on with the charade for much longer, for fear that he might make a fool out of himself. "I don't know if I can do dis," Fidget muttered nervously.
"Sure you can, Fidget!" Mrs. Judson exhorted encouragingly. "You just need to practice! One can dance with a prosthetic, you know!"
"Yeah, dat's true, but still...I'm not exactly da most graceful guy in Mouse London," Fidget admitted.
"No more excuses, Fidget!" Mrs. Judson scolded playfully. "Now, let's boogie-oogie-oogie till we just can't do it no more!" And, so, Fidget & Mrs. Judson proceeded to dance together. As the two rodents tripped the proverbial light fantastic, Fidget gradually felt his anxiety slipping away, as he adjusted to the rhythm & pace of the music. With each passing minute, Fidget found it easier & easier to follow the dance steps that Mrs. Judson was doing, &—much to his great delight—he discovered that the use of his peg-leg didn't really hinder his dancing abilities after all! Of course, if he wanted to impress comely young ladies like his friend Cecelia Green, he would still need to practice, perfect, & polish his skills...but now that Fidget had gotten his confidence back, he was sure he could do those things without any problem!
"Thanks a lot, Mrs. Judson!" Fidget told his friend with heartfelt gratitude. "I owe you one!"
A short time later, Ratigan danced with Hiram. "I say, Ratigan," Hiram complimented, "you're a very excellent dancer!"
"Thank you," Ratigan replied humbly. "Say, Hiram, might I ask you a question?"
"Of course!" Hiram answered amiably. "Go right ahead!"
"Very well," Ratigan said, his expression & tone now becoming more solemn in nature. "I know that I have done unspeakable things in my past, & I have done irreparable damage to the lives of many innocent rodents. Back in my dark days, I was quite proud of what I did...I was happy when I hurt other fursons. Now that I've seen the error of my ways, though, I really want to make amends with those rodents who I've wronged. And, so, with a humble heart, I ask of you & your loved ones...Do you forgive me for what I've done to you?"
"Ratigan," Hiram responded with a sincere smile, "the moment I realized that you had truly turned over a new leaf, I knew that you would feel remorseful about your past actions. We can't turn back the clock, Ratigan. We can't change what's already been done...but we can strive to do the best we can while we're living in the present, so that our future shines more brightly than anything that preceded it. And since you've done so much to make up for your past misdeeds, how can anyone deny the truth of your transformation? You really have changed for the better, Ratigan...& while I certainly can't forget the things you've done, I can bring it in myself to forgive them...&, thus, I forgive you."
"Thank you so much, Hiram," Ratigan said warmly. "I sincerely appreciate your kindness."
Meanwhile, Victoria was dancing with Cousin Timmy. The two mice were having a blast together as they whirled & twirled across the floor of the dance hall! "Say, Timmy," Victoria asked the younger boy, "what do you think about living with Basil & the others?"
"I think it's pretty great so far," Cousin Timmy confessed. "And you?"
"Likewise," Victoria agreed. "Although I mustn't forget my poor sister at Buckingham Palace...Did you know she has three children? I've got a niece & two nephews who I haven't even met yet! I feel so ashamed that I haven't made contact with Mousie by now..."
"It's OK, Victoria," Cousin Timmy assured his friend. "Uncle Basil's taking care of everything for you! He told me & Livvy he's dropping hints to the Queen that you're alive & well...but he wants to wait a little while before he tells her the whole story."
"Oh?" Victoria queried quizzically. "Why is that?"
"Basically," Cousin Timmy explained, "when you left the Chez Chic, & moved in with us, you went through a big life change. Uncle Basil thought sending you to Buckingham Palace right away would be too overwhelming for you on a psychological level, since we're the first friends you've ever really had in a long time, & we've been spending all this time together...He thought it was just best for everyone to wait until you felt like you were ready to move back to the palace." [17]
"Truth be told, I don't know if I'm ready, Timmy," Victoria worried. "I've spent so much of my life as a commoner, & I've become so accustomed to an ordinary lifestyle...Besides, I really love living with you & the Baker Street Family, & I greatly enjoy your company! But at the same time, I miss my family & friends at Buckingham Palace...I miss being loved & admired by my people...I miss my old existence! Oh, I don't know what I'm going to do with the rest of my life..."
"Don't worry, Vicky," Cousin Timmy encouraged. "You've got plenty of time to figure out what you wanna do. Just breathe easy, & take everything a step at a time."
"That's very good advice, Timmy," Victoria said, now feeling much better. "I'll be sure to keep it in mind every day."
After she was finished dancing with Cousin Timmy, Victoria went over to dance with Basil. "Mind if I cut in?" the former princess asked with a coy, catty grin.
"Not at all, Victoria!" Basil proclaimed pleasantly. "In fact, I'd be delighted if you joined me!" With that, Basil & Victoria proceeded to waltz with each other, gliding across the ballroom floor like a joined pair of leaves whirling wildly in the autumn wind. As he danced with Victoria, Basil realized that he had never really been this close to her before. Never before had he noticed how soft her fur was, how delicate her fingers were, how lovely her violet eyes were, how beautiful her auburn hair smelled...Steady on there, Basil, old boy! the detective gently reprimanded himself. These matters should be handled quite...Oh, who am I kidding? I can't deny it anymore! I don't just have feelings for Victoria, I think I'm actually falling in love with her!
It was now early in the evening, & after leaving the dance hall, the Baker Street Family & Victoria went to their final outing location—the British Playhouse, scenically located at Lower 739 Trestletree Lane. Our pint-sized protagonists got tickets for the next performance of the Playhouse's latest production, & after making themselves comfortable in the auditorium with the rest of the audience, Basil & his loved ones eagerly watched the play from their front-row seats. What was particularly interesting about this stage work, was the fact that the Baker Street Family's good friend Sophocles Braveheart was in the starring role!
(CUE MUSIC: "Overture To The Sun", by Terry Tucker)
At one point in the play, Sophocles (dressed in his regular outfit, but brandishing a rapier) & another actor (dressed as a royal count, complete with outlandishly-lavish attire & rapier) were "confronting" one another, bathed in the glow of a blue spotlight. Sophocles smiled mischievously at the other actor as he circled him, & said slyly, "Ah, Count Wensleydale...You dare to challenge me, Earl Gloucester, who is much more skilled with the sword than you?"
Sophocles pointed his rapier at the other actor. The other actor returned Sophocles' mischievous grin as he drew his own rapier, & pointed it at the artisan. "Yes, I do challenge you, Gloucester!" the actor replied, as the two mice prepared to clash. "I hope you've got a spare set of clothing, 'cause by the time I'm through with you, you're going to need it!" (The audience laughed at this witty remark.)
"Don't worry, Count Wensleydale," Sophocles retorted with a playful smirk. "I've got all the clothing I need."
"Then, let's duel!" proclaimed the other actor.
"Have at you, then!" Sophocles cried out fearlessly. With that, Sophocles & the other actor began their duel. As he "battled" the other actor with his rapier (& vice versa), Sophocles shouted, "En garde! Touche! Cafe ole!" After several seconds of fighting, the duel finally came to an end as Sophocles "defeated" the other actor. The other actor "bitterly" tossed down his rapier, & "sulked" sullenly, while a smiling Sophocles took a few bows to the applause of his adoring audience. Once Sophocles & the other actor returned to their work, the play continued without any further interruptions.
After the play was over, the Baker Street Family went to the mouse street of Lymeswold Avenue (known to us humans as Great Marlborough Street), where they planned to stop for dinner on the way back home. At Lower 963 Lymeswold Avenue, there was a lovely little eatery named Goldini's Italian Restaurant, & Basil & his friends decided to eat their evening meal here. [18] Soon, our heroes were seated at a large table, & dining upon all sorts of delicious dishes, drinks, & desserts from the land of Mouse Italy. "My word, Basil..." Victoria marveled while eating her dinner. "This is some of the best Italian food I've ever had!"
"You'll never find a better Italian restaurant than Goldini's, my dear," Basil asserted in between mouthfuls of munchies. "Except, perhaps, the Merchiorre family's pizza parlor in the South End."
"Ah, yes, the Merchiorres' parlor..." Dr. Dawson concurred, dabbing at his mouth with a napkin after swallowing some food. "That's a good place, too." As they continued eating their dinner, Victoria & the members of the Baker Street Family all chatted about the adventures, escapades, & other experiences they shared in the last few months, bringing up all the new friends, foes, & family members they met along the way.
Once dinner was over, Basil & his companions drove their van back to Baker Street, & parked in the carport of their house. The rodents then went inside their home, & after bidding each other "goodnight", everyone except for Basil & Victoria went upstairs for an early retirement. In the dark, quiet living room, Basil (still dressed in his mouse detective outfit, sans deerstalker cap) was sitting in his red chair, & Victoria (still dressed in her pretty new outfit) was sitting in Dr. Dawson's green chair, her forearms resting on the arms of the furniture. Illuminated by the glow of the fire that was now roaring in the hearth, the two mice were quite happy, though a little tired after all that happened today.
Victoria sighed a bit as she relaxed into her chair, then turned her head to face Basil with a delighted smile, & said, "Oh, Basil...today was one of the best days of my life. I really enjoyed spending time with you & your family on our outings today."
Basil turned over a bit in his chair to face Victoria, smiling sweetly at her. "Well, I'm glad to see you're happy & that you had a wonderful time, sweetheart," the detective replied gently. (In response to this, Victoria continued to smile at Basil, blushing & posing coyly.) Basil then got out of his chair, & started walking towards Victoria. When he finally stopped to stand by his friend, Basil extended his paw to gently take her hand in his, & said, "Victoria...come with me. I want to show you something."
"But what about the others?" Victoria asked, as she rose out of her seat.
"It's all right," Basil replied, as he led Victoria away by the paw. "No need to wake them up." Quickly & quietly, Basil & Victoria tiptoed out of the living room, & exited their house, before taking the next Mousetro tram to their destination.
Not too long afterwards, the dusk hours were still underway as Basil & Victoria went to a secret glade by one of the smaller lakes at Regents Park. The lake was filled with crystal blue waters that sparkled in the glow of the sun that was beginning to set in the sky, creating beautiful light-orange & golden hues. A small wooden dock with a rowboat tethered to it, could be seen on the bank of the lake. Loons floated across the lake, emitting their haunting cries. Frogs croaked & hopped across green lily pads with beautiful fuschia blossoms. Cattails, flowers, & wild grass surrounded the lake & adjoining glade, which were covered by a humongous willow tree. Basil (in his brown waistcoat, white shirt, brown pants, turquoise necktie, & black shoes) & Victoria (in the same outfit as earlier, but with a flower in her hair) were sitting together at the trunk of the willow tree. The two mice leaned back against said tree trunk, smiling & holding hands as they looked at the scenery around them. "What is this place, Basil?" Victoria asked.
"It's what I like to call my thoughtful place...er, meditation area," Basil replied. "I'm thinking that perhaps on Sunday, after church services, I'll bring the family down here to come see it, so they'll know of a good place to go whenever they need some time to think...or they just want some quiet & solitude."
"I think that would be a wonderful idea, Basil!" Victoria affirmed. "Everybody needs a place to get away for a while."
"That's exactly what my older sister Elizabella told me when she first brought me down here," Basil admitted. "It was her favorite spot, too. You probably wouldn't believe this, judging from how Dr. Dawson described me in some of the chronicles of our cases together, but every Sunday, when I was a mouseling, Elizabella would take me here to read stories from the Bible."
"Oh, how lovely!" Victoria exclaimed pleasantly.
"Yes, but you see, I wasn't very interested in the Bible at first," Basil reminisced. "I always begged Elizabella to let me work on my deduction skills, but Elizabella always told me..."—he did a perfect imitation of his sister—"Even mouse detectives need to keep in touch with their spiritual side!" (Basil let out a wistful sigh.) "So she made me come down here anyway. Elizabella would read a story from the Bible to me, & when she was done, she always expected me to ask her questions about what she'd read—which I often did. There was much about the Bible that fascinated me...& still fascinates me to this day. That's why I've never doubted the existence of a God or miracles or otherworldly phenomena, even with all the logical & scientific characteristics I gained over time." [19]
"I see," Victoria declared, nodding her head. "And this place brings back fond memories for you?"
"I guess you could say that," Basil replied, also nodding his head.
Victoria & Basil continued to look out at the glade & lake for several seconds, surveying all the animals & plants...then, at one point, Victoria suddenly sat up a little, & pointed yonder, as she asked excitedly, "Oooh, what's that, Basil?"
Basil also sat up, & looked in the direction that Victoria was pointing. As it turned out, Victoria was gesturing to the rowboat tethered to the post on the dock at the edge of the lake. When Victoria turned to face Basil with an excited grin, brimming with curiosity, Basil smiled humbly as he answered, "Oh, that rowboat has been there for as long as I can remember. Nobody's ever really used it." Basil got up onto his feet & swept the dust off his clothes, as Victoria did the same. "Maybe, you & I could go for a little ride across the lake?" Basil asked, as he offered his hand to Victoria.
Gladly taking Basil's paw in hers, Victoria smiled coyly at the detective, & did a slight curtsy as she consented, "Lead the way, mon capitan!"
With that, Basil & Victoria walked hand-in-hand together, making their way onto the dock of the lake bank. Holding up a forefinger as he smiled at Victoria, Basil said, "Just one second, Victoria! This won't take long." Basil quickly untied the rope keeping the rowboat tethered to its wooden post. After removing the rigging, Basil climbed into the rowboat, & Victoria followed him in; Basil sat on the bench at the bow of the boat, while Victoria sat on the bench in front of him (closer to the stern). Basil took the helm, & grabbed a pair of wooden oars laid out in front of him on the rowboat's floor. After placing the paddles in the oarlocks, Basil began rowing the boat across the lake. As he commandeered the craft through the water, Basil asked Victoria cheerfully, "So, my dear...What do you think of it?"
Victoria fawned in absolute delight as the two mice rode the rowboat across the lake, looking at all the beautiful scenery, & the plant & animal life thriving in the glade. "It's absolutely breathtaking! Spectacular!" Victoria exclaimed in amazement, gushing in her blissful reverie as Basil occasionally nodded & muttered in agreement. "Especially in the early evening, when the loons are out, & they make that lovely sound..." Victoria tried to imitate a loon calling, but didn't do very well at it. Pouting in disappointment, Victoria leaned over to splash some of the lake water with her paw in a fit of frustration, & grumbled, "That was just pitiful!"
The water that Victoria splashed, hit Basil in the face. The detective just shook his head-fur dry, & smiled at Victoria in amusement, continuing to row the boat. "Actually, my dear, a loon sounds more like this," Basil corrected. He then did a perfect impression of a loon call!
Victoria giggled, putting her paws to her mouth as she did so. "Very clever, Basil!" an impressed Victoria complimented. "How on Earth did you train yourself to do that, I wonder?"
"Well, it's quite elementary, really," Basil replied with the same smile as before. "My older brother Marcus showed me how to fake animal sounds. My talent comes in handy quite often...especially when I need to distract a criminal by making him think a cat's coming for him!" Basil started to laugh merrily, & Victoria began to laugh as well, capitulating to the conditions of contagious cheerfulness. In fact, Victoria was soon unable to control her hysterical giggles, & she ended up laughing so hard that she tipped the rowboat over! Basil & Victoria yelped as their vessel turned over on its side, & they both fell out, plunging into the lake with a splash. A few bubbles rose up in the mice's wake...&, then, Basil & Victoria both resurfaced from the lake, spitting out water. Glaring in annoyance at Victoria as he placed his paws on his hips, Basil scolded, "Now, Victoria, may I ask what in heavens' name has gotten into you?"
"This!" Victoria shouted merrily, as she responded with another splash of water in Basil's face. Basil (who had moved to shield himself from the aquatic "attack") uncovered his arms from over his head, & then turned to smile playfully at Victoria. So, the fair lady wants to play Puck, eh? the detective mused mischievously. Well, if Royal Robin shall not restore amends, then I suppose I'll have to beat her at her own game! With that, Basil swam over to Victoria, & the two mice laughed & giggled as they engaged in a water fight. While they frolicked & rollicked together, Basil & Victoria were having so much fun, they completely about forgot the world around them, & any worries or troubles that were on their minds soon disappeared.
Suddenly, at one point, Victoria froze in the midst of their play. She wrapped her arms tightly around herself, & began to shiver with cold. When he saw the state his friend was in, Basil suddenly grew concerned. "What's the matter, Victoria?" Basil asked compassionately as he swam over to her, & 'stood' by her side. "Do you have a chill?" Victoria looked up at Basil, & nodded her head in affirmation, shivering all the while. Smiling tenderly, Basil wrapped his arms around Victoria's waist, & gently brought her over to him so that they could share body heat & not be so cold. As he buried his face in Victoria's soft hair, Basil quietly sniffed the flower that he tucked into her auburn locks; he couldn't resist the urge to nuzzle Victoria a little, & kiss her on the temple. Comforted by the gesture, Victoria smiled, & began to relax as she rested her head & paws on Basil's chest, closing her eyes. Never before had Victoria noticed the subtle strength of Basil's muscles, the tenderness of his touch, the warmth of his skin, or the gentle pounding of his heart...I can't fight fate or facts any longer, the ex-princess thought to herself. My feelings for Basil are now more than just those of a friend or comrade...I've actually fallen in love with the mouse!
(CUE MUSIC: "Rhapsody Of A Theme Of Paganini", by Sergei Rachmaninoff)
A short time later, Victoria & Basil (now completely warm & dry) sat next to each other on top of a grassy green hill overlooking the park green, watching the sunset. As it sank further & further below the horizon, the sun painted the evening sky with beautiful hues of red, orange, & golden. "Oh, isn't it beautiful, Basil?" Victoria whispered in wonderment.
"Indeed, it is, Victoria," Basil replied reverently. "It's one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen." Basil & Victoria still sat on the hill, continuing to watch the sunset together. Within a few minutes, the sun was gone, & the hues of the sky had totally changed to a field of pink & purple, adorned with glittering white stars. As he & Victoria turned to look at each other with smiles on their faces, Basil asked, "You know what my favorite time of night is after the sun sets?"
"What?" Victoria queried, as her face brightened with anticipation.
"When the fireflies come out to play," Basil answered. In the meadow at the base of the hill where Basil & Victoria were sitting, dozens of tiny fireflies flickered to life, & began buzzing happily around the area. Taking Victoria by the paw, & helping her onto her feet as they both rose, Basil cried cheerfully, "Come on, Victoria!" Basil & Victoria smiled as they ran down the hill, & dashed into the meadow, looking around in amazement at the fireflies frolicking everywhere. Some of the fireflies went over to Basil & Victoria, dancing playfully around their heads. Victoria giggled as a firefly landed on her nose, tickling it.
Later, Basil & Victoria were standing by a cluster of large grass blades, where some fireflies were resting their legs. One cheerful-looking firefly rose from his blade of grass, & flew over to Basil & Victoria, glowing brightly as he buzzed in front of their heads, sporting a big smile on his cute little face. A smiling Basil carefully extended a finger for the firefly to land on. Basil & Victoria looked down, & watched with delighted expressions as the firefly glowed even more brightly, illuminating the mice's faces with the light from his "bulb".
Later, in another part of the meadow, while the fireflies continued to dance & play elsewhere, Victoria watched curiously as Basil stooped down to pick some flowers sprouting from the ground. Basil got up onto his feet, & turned to face Victoria, smiling as he offered his bouquet of freshly-picked flowers to her. Victoria smiled when she saw the flowers...but then frowned, & started to turn away from Basil, rejecting his gift. "I'm so sorry, Basil...I just can't do this," Victoria said sadly.
Basil watched with a shocked, dejected frown, becoming increasingly distressed as he watched Victoria turn around, & start walking away from him. The detective's tail & ears drooped, his shoulders slumped, his face fell, & his arms & hands hung limply at his side. Basil was so caught up in his state of sadness, he didn't even notice the bouquet of flowers had slipped from his paw, & fallen gently to the ground. When she heard the sound, Victoria turned back a little to look at Basil with a melancholy expression, & was quick to assure her friend with a shaking of her head, "Oh, i-it's not you, Basil!" Turning away from Basil again (& looking more miserable now), Victoria added, "It's me..." Victoria continued to stand slumped over with her back turned to Basil, who stared at her with a concerned look on his face. "I just don't think I can go through with this relationship," Victoria stated sorrowfully. "I'm not ready to have those kinds of feelings for you, Basil...Not now...Not ever." Tears silently started rolling down Victoria's cheeks, & she said in a broken voice, "I don't believe I was ever...meant to love somebody."
Victoria sniffled, & dried her tears away with her paw. Determined to get Victoria to see a different side of her situation, Basil went up to Victoria, & placed his paw on her shoulder, causing her to look at the detective as he proclaimed passionately, "Don't you dare say that, Victoria! You don't realize what you're truly capable of!" When Victoria just stared sadly at him in response, Basil sighed, then continued speaking to Victoria as he took her chin in his paw, & tilted her gaze to meet his. "Victoria, I don't know what kind of lies your father put into your head, but they're not true! You can have romantic feelings for someone! You can love another furson...any furson...& not have to bear the humiliation of rejection. You can love...& be loved."
Victoria, unfortunately, was not convinced. Lost in her own private hell, the former princess turned away from Basil again, gently removing his paw from her shoulder as she whispered sadly, "I wish I could believe you, Basil...I really do." Still looking (& feeling) miserable as can be, Victoria walked away from Basil, who sorrowfully watched her trudge past him. Still wallowing in her misery, Victoria did not bother to look at Basil even once as she kept on walking with her back turned to her friend. All the while, Victoria lamented, "But let's face it. You wouldn't want anything to do with me. I'm just a homely little nobody...with no family...no past...& no future." Basil stared at Victoria for a second or two, not initially sure how to react...but, then, he thought he ought to keep talking to Victoria, so he started after her. Now in a deeper part of the thicket near the meadow, Victoria stood slumped over; Basil soon came up behind her, before stopping in mid-step, & deciding to stare at her from a distance. Victoria didn't respond to Basil's presence, but began singing about her past troubles, her present concerns, & her fursonal fears about the future of her relationship with Basil...
(CUE SONG: "I've Never Felt This Way Before")
Once a king's daughter, booted out by my father,
You'd think that a young child like me couldn't subsist...
But though I did manage to find food & shelter,
I never became blessed with true happiness...
All through the course of my meager existence,
I wondered sometimes if the Lord cared for me...
I lived such a terrible life filled with sorrow,
Yet why God should bring blessings now, I don't see...
I am doomed to be alone, it's true...
I'm not meant to share a life with you...
There's no one who can fill this empty space...
Yet I wish there was a way for me to fill my life with grace!
I want to start anew,
But, oh, what can I do?
My tender heart grows sore...
I've never felt this way before...
His heart swelling with pity & compassion for his friend's psychological plight, Basil stepped even closer to Victoria than he previously dared. The detective reached out a hand towards the ex-monarch, but then drew it back with a sad look, & stuffed it into his trousers pocket. No matter how many times Basil patted Victoria's shoulder, nothing seemed like it was going to be able to bring Victoria out of her rut. Feeling at a loss as to how to comfort Victoria, Basil turned around, slouching over with a drooping tail & ears, so that the two mice's backs were directly facing one another. Basil then explained to Victoria that he was not always the confident, tough-as-nails crimefighter that he often appeared to be...
Raised in a city that was teeming with crim'nals
I knew that I had to grow up, so one day,
I'd learn from the Master & gain all the knowledge
That I'd need to clean up this vice-tainted world...
In spite of the honors & medals they gave me
As thanks for the service I'd done all these years,
I never felt whole, & sometimes, on dark evenings,
I'd fail in attempts to fight back lonely tears...
As it gradually dawned on Basil that he had finally found the thing that had been missing in his life for so long, Basil's sad frown changed into a happy smile, & he turned Victoria around to face him, before grabbing her by the shoulders, & bringing her closer to him. All the while, Basil sang to Victoria...
Before long, I first began to feel
The emotions that I once concealed,
And now that I've gotten to know you,
I have found the very woman to make all my dreams come true!
While she listened to Basil reveal his secrets to her, Victoria's bewildered, puzzled expression melted into a happy one, & a few tears fell from Victoria's eyes, heading down towards her smile. Meanwhile, Basil stepped back a little, & placed his paws over his heart, looking positively ecstatic as he exclaimed...
Oh, don't you understand
What passions seize this man?
My young heart, how it soars...
I've never felt this way before!
Basil subsequently moved to place his paws on Victoria's shoulders, smiling broadly at her as he gazed deeply into her violet eyes. As he did this, he told Victoria, "My dear sweet, you fill me with delight..."
"You turn my darkness into light..." Victoria declared with a broadening smile of her own, as she repeated the same actions that Basil did.
While their paws slid down from one another's shoulders, & trailed down the length of their arms until they met each other, Basil avowed simultaneously with Victoria, "I swear I'll never leave your side! (And so, with you, I shall abide!)" [20] Looking positively happy & beaming at their newfound joy, Basil & Victoria clasped paws together as they emerged from the thicket, & re-entered the meadow, looking up at one another with adoring expressions. As they did all this, the two mice sang happily in unison...
I'll always be there for you,
And you'll be there for me, too...
Basil & Victoria stopped & stood in the middle of the meadow, continuing to smile & hold hands as they turned to look at one another lovingly. Victoria confessed to Basil...
I know that it's hard to face the truth,
But my life is empty without you
Still clasping Victoria's paws in his, Basil brought them up higher & higher between them, lifting them until they were up in front of their chests, over their hearts. "Darling, please say you'll remain with me!" Basil implored.
"In the warmth of your embrace is where I really want to be!" Victoria admitted admiringly, as she gently freed her paws from Basil's grasp, & wrapped her arms tightly around the detective in a warm, tender embrace. Basil gladly returned the hug. Of course, Basil hadn't forgotten about the flower bouquet he had planned to give Victoria, which was now lying at his feet. Basil reached his right arm down to pick up the nosegay, & upon taking it into his paw, he offered the bouquet of flowers to Victoria. Victoria accepted the bouquet, & soon, both mice were holding it in their paws. All the while, Basil & Victoria pledged in unison...
Whatever we go through,
I always will love you...
My heart, oh, how it soars!
I've never felt this way before...
Still clutching the bouquet of flowers in their joined hands, Basil & Victoria smiled at one another with adoring expressions, & stared deeply into each other's eyes. This was the critical point that both Basil & Victoria's lives had come to. For so long, each mouse had been running away from a ghost of their past; Basil involved himself in his crimefighting career at the expense of his relationships with the rodents he worked so hard to protect, while Victoria felt unable to recover from the emotional & psychological blows her father had dealt her from the moment of her birth (especially her banishment from Buckingham Palace). But, then, little Olivia came to change Basil for the better, & the detective could now provide room in his heart for anyone he desired, without feeling like he would be putting his career in jeopardy! And Victoria had found someone who not only understood her, but also cared for her, & vowed to never leave her—something she had been looking for in a male mouse all these years! Now, the missing pieces to the puzzles of Basil & Victoria's lives had been found, & nothing else would fit; the two mice were absolutely perfect for each other in all the right ways. Simply put, Victoria was the yin to Basil's yang, & if there was ever a furson that Basil wanted to spend the rest of his life with, Victoria was the one...the only one for him. [21]
After a few moments, Victoria looked down from Basil to gaze at the flowers for a second. With his left paw, Basil took Victoria's chin in his hand, before tilting her gaze up a little to meet his. As he did all this, Basil asked Victoria with a sweet, sincere smile, "Victoria...will you marry me?"
For a moment, Victoria couldn't believe her ears! It had only been two days since she had first met Basil & his family, but she had grown to love them almost immediately, & she couldn't imagine living life without them! Basil's proposal was the very thing Victoria had been hoping for, despite all her earlier fears & doubts, & she was not going to let the opportunity to wed the mouse of her dreams slip away. With a vigorous nod of her head, Victoria's smile widened even more as she replied, "Yes...I will, Basil! I will!" Before they even knew it, Basil & Victoria were soon hugging one another again. They eventually wound up sharing a tender, loving kiss on the lips. Tomorrow, we'll tell the others about everything we went through tonight, Basil & Victoria thought. They'll be so happy to hear the big news!
Tuesday, November 3, 1897
(CUE MUSIC: 2nd movement of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Piano Concerto #21 In C")
When Basil & Victoria told the Baker Street Family about the events of the earlier evening, Olivia, Hiram, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, Fidget, Dr. Dawson, & Mrs. Judson were quite surprised by the sudden developments in their friends' relationship...but, nonetheless, they were very happy for Basil & Victoria, & the rest of the Baker Street Family made it clear that they would support the two lovers & their marriage. In fact, Olivia & the others thought they all ought to start preparing for Basil & Victoria's wedding right away, so they took the next Mousetro tram to the mouse road of Grey Street (known to us humans as Middleton Road). At Lower 516 Grey Street was the perfect place for all newlyweds' nuptial necessities...the Bridal Boutique.
The Bridal Boutique was not much different from your average bridal shop, except that everything was mouse-sized, of course. There were sections for all kinds of various things—gowns & veils for the brides, tuxes & ties for the grooms & best mice, outfits for little bridesmaids & flower girls (& ring bearers, too), shoes, rings, pillows, containers & wrapping for wedding gifts, bottles of sparkling grape juice & other beverages, packets of rice, baskets of flowers, & anything & everything else you could possibly need for your wedding.
In one area of the boutique, Olivia, Hiram, Cousin Timmy, Ratigan, Fidget, Mrs. Judson, Dr. Dawson, Basil, & Victoria (all dressed up in their outing clothes) were standing together behind a female boutique attendant, who was humming as she busily tended to a couple of clothing displays, her back to them. The rodents were surrounded by mannequins of brides, grooms, best mice, flower girls, ring-bearers, & bridesmaids, all of which were bedecked in the appropriate outfits & decorations (complete with props). After some seconds passed, Victoria stepped forward a bit, calling out to the busy boutique attendant as she tried to get her attention: "Um...E-Excuse me...Madam?"
The boutique attendant immediately stopped fiddling with the display, & turned to face Victoria & the Baker Street Family with her constant, unwavering smile. "Oh, hello!" the boutique attendant greeted in a chipper voice. "Welcome to the Bridal Boutique! How may I help you?"
Basil stepped forward to stand beside Victoria, returning the smile at the boutique attendant as he replied, "Having made our unofficial proposal last night, my fiance & I would like to begin making preparations for the forthcoming wedding!"
"Oh, congratulations to you two!" the boutique attendant exclaimed happily, before prancing over to the Baker Street Family, & asking them, "So, where would you like to get started? The cake? The outfits? The rings?"
"I think it would be best if we went over the outfits for the wedding first," Basil answered.
"Splendid!" the boutique attendant chirped with a joyful giggle. "Very well, then. Fursonally, I'd suggest that we begin out discussion on wedding clothes with the bride's outfit..." Taking out a pen & clipboard to write down notes with, the boutique attendant told Victoria, "All right, dear. First, we need to go over the basic information & certain important details regarding your outfit..." The attendant inhaled deeply, then asked the next several questions in a rapid-fire manner: "What dress size do you wear, what shoe size do you wear, how do you measure up physically, what color would you like the outfit to be, do you have any allergic reaction to certain fabrics, what religion are you, do you have any particular suggestions for decorations or trimmings, is the wedding formal or casual, & when & where will you be holding the ceremony?"
After asking her final question, the attendant abruptly stopped speaking, & then smiled broadly at the Baker Street Family, who stared blankly at her in befuddlement...before Basil cleared his throat softly, & nudged Victoria in the side with his elbow as a signal for her to answer. Jumping in surprise at the unexpected touch, Victoria let out a cry of startlement, then turned to face the boutique attendant, who listened attentively as she prepared to write notes. "Well..." Victoria began.
While the Bridal Boutique attendant & the other members of the Baker Street Family chatted with each other, Cousin Timmy stood in front of a dressmaker's dummy (placed on a golden stand on top of a wooden crate), which had been dolled up like a pretty girl mouseling in full bridesmaid attire. Cousin Timmy was holding a bouquet of multicolored paper flowers, as he pretended to speak with the bridesmaid dummy. Smiling up at the figurine with his bouquet in his paws, Timmy said, "Hello...Gosh, you're...really pretty!"
Cousin Timmy then switched to a girly, high-pitched voice, speaking like a ventriloquist through his teeth, to make it seem as though the dressed-up dummy was talking to him. "Aw, gee, thank you, Timmy! You're a real swell guy!" Cousin Timmy replied.
Cousin Timmy's smile widened, & he blushed a little, wringing his paws a bit as he held the bouquet, & muttered in his normal voice, "Th...Thank you..." Then, Cousin Timmy looked up at the bridesmaid dummy, & offered his bouquet of paper flowers to her as he asked, "Would you like some flowers?"
Switching to the girl voice, & delivering the next line ventriloquist-style, Cousin Timmy answered, "Oh, sure, Timmy...But only if you give me a great big kiss!"
Acting quite excited, Cousin Timmy switched to his normal voice, & blurted out, "Really? You mean it?" He let out an uncertain "Ummmm...", before perking up at the offer, & consenting, "Sure! OK!" Cousin Timmy stood up on his tiptoes to offer the bouquet of paper flowers to the bridesmaid dummy, making kissy faces with loud smooching sounds as he did so. Cousin Timmy then turned away, & covered his mouth with his paw as he pretended to giggle coyly, before turning back to "hand" the paper flowers to the dummy. While offering his bouquet to the feminine figurine once again, the boy acted out the response he would imagine getting from the girl of his dreams.
"Thank you, Timmy! You're a real sweetheart!" Cousin Timmy exclaimed in the high-pitched, girly voice, speaking ventriloquist-style. Cousin Timmy pretended to plant a long, loud smooch on his cheek, with his left hand forming the girl's lips & face. "I love you!"
With little red hearts floating up from his head & dancing in front of his eyes, Cousin Timmy stumbled & waddled around in a euphoric stupor, moaning & giggling like a drunken fool as he smiled broadly from ear to ear, still holding the bouquet of flowers. Then, finally, Timmy tripped over on his shoe, & landed stomach-first on the floor of the boutique. His bouquet of paper flowers landed at his side as he continued to wallow in his romantic reverie, floating hearts & all. Meanwhile, the boutique attendant & the rest of the Baker Street Family were still talking with one another. "But be sure that Fidget's tuxedo has open slots for his wings to go through," Hiram dictated to the attendant. "He can't fly very well with regular sleeves, so his suit won't be needing those."
"And the bat—your ring-bearer—will only require one shoe?" the boutique attendant asked, as she jotted down the last of her notes.
"That is correct, ma'am," Basil replied, nodding his head.
The boutique attendant scribbled down a few more notes, then put up her pen & clipboard, & said, "Excellent." Beckoning for the others to follow her, the attendant cajoled, "Come along this way, dearies, & we'll start making arrangements for your outfits...& the rest of your nuptial necessities." With that, the Baker Street Family followed the boutique attendant in the direction she was walking...although Hiram went back for a moment to retrieve the still-mesmerized Cousin Timmy. Then, our pint-sized protagonists proceeded to take care of all their pre-wedding preparations.
Upon finishing their work at the Bridal Boutique, the Baker Street Family walked out the boutique door with several shopping bags, boxes, containers, & whatnot. As Basil & his companions left, they turned to smile & wave "goodbye" to the boutique attendant, who smiled & returned the wave as she stood in the threshold of the store building. "Goodbye, everyone!" the attendant said cheerfully. "Pleasure doing business with you!"
Still carrying their purchases & other things, the Baker Street Family walked down the sidewalk of Grey Street...until, at one point, they suddenly stopped walking, & bumped into each other as they saw something standing in their way. Further down the street, staring angrily at our heroes with her paws on her hips & her feet tapping the pavement, was Cathy Sheridan—the fast-living, tough-talking, troublemaking flapper they saw at the Apricot Racetrack the other day. The members of the Baker Street Family smiled nervously & waved the fingers of their paws at Cathy, trying not to appear intimidated in front of her. "Um, hello...Miss Sheridan..." Basil greeted amiably, as he spoke through a nervous, toothy grin. "How's the weather today?"
"You know her?" Victoria asked, whispering to Basil.
Still smiling toothily, Basil muttered aside to Victoria, "Cathy Sheridan is a flapper from the Bronx who's been living here for the past several years. She's run into trouble numerous times for pursuing not-so-wholesome activities...you know, gambling & consuming alcoholic beverages & such..." At this point, Basil turned back to face Cathy with the others, who continued cracking their nervous grins & waving at her. A few members of the Baker Street Family were beginning to sweat a little, unnerved by Cathy's perturbing presence. Victoria just stared at the woman, waiting to see what she would say or do next...& hoping that she wouldn't cross any lines.
Cathy glared at the Baker Street Family...then smirked snidely at them as she marched over to them with a cocky swagger. Pointing to the stuff Basil & his comrades were carrying, Cathy asked, "Whatcha got in those bags, squares?"
"I'm afraid that's none of your business, Miss Sheridan," Basil replied haughtily.
"None of my business?" Cathy cried indignantly. "Baloney! It is too my business, so you better make an effort to satisfy my curiosity, detective!" With a catty grin, Cathy added tauntingly, "Unless you happen to be a square & a prude!"
Dr. Dawson marched angrily over to Cathy, glaring & pointing a finger at her in reprimand as he scolded, "Young lady, I highly suggest that you..." Before Dr. Dawson could finish his sentence, his words suddenly trailed off when he saw Cathy smiling meanly at him as she chewed on a piece of bubble gum, blew a huge bubble...& popped it right in his face! As he tried to remove the sticky pink goo from his fur, Dr. Dawson was not too pleased about what Cathy had just done to him (& understandably so). Cathy just snickered & pointed at the gum-covered Dr. Dawson, amused with her atrocious antics.
Victoria, meanwhile, had seen the whole thing, & she was absolutely livid! What a horrible woman! the former princess fumed mentally. How dare she treat my friends this way? I'm not going to stand for this! And, so, Victoria went over to tell Cathy off. As she approached Cathy, Victoria admonished angrily, "You leave Dr. Dawson alone!"
Cathy scoffed haughtily at Victoria, tilting her nose up in the air, & placing her paws on her hips. "Why should I, you old bag?" Cathy asked arrogantly.
Now unable to contain her rage any longer, Victoria suddenly grabbed Cathy by the scruff of her tank-top, & pulled her in closer towards her, terrifying the flapper out of her wits! "I am not an old bag!" Victoria reprimanded furiously, before releasing Cathy with a rough shove. "And I will not stand for such rude & uncalled-for behavior from you or anybody towards a member of my family!"
The Baker Street Family was shocked & surprised to hear Victoria say these words. Cathy took to her heels, & started running away, not wanting to deal with the wrath of Victoria. "You're giving me the heebie-jeebies, lady!" Cathy cried, as she made her exit. "I'm outta here!" Once her friends' antagonist was gone, Victoria smiled proudly, & struck a triumphant pose, happy that she was able to show Cathy what for. I can't believe it! the once-royal mouse beamed. I just defended my loved ones for the first time! And I'm beginning to really feel like part of the Baker Street Family...& Basil & I haven't even tied the knot yet! It feels so grand to feel like part of the group you've come to know & love so much...
Tuesday, November 17, 1897
The two weeks leading to Basil & Victoria's wedding were very busy ones for the Baker Street Family. Basil & his loved ones were scurrying to & fro, trying to make sure that every last thing was properly prepared for. Finally, the big day arrived, & all of Mouse London came to St. Paul's Cathedral to support their hero, the Great Mouse Detective, at his wedding to the woman he loved. The mouse street of Cathedral Drive (known to us humans as Ludgate Hill) was alive with activity, complete with ringing church bells & flying flocks of pigeons. How the micefolk were glad to celebrate the betrothal of their beloved Basil Of Baker Street!
In the sanctuary of St. Paul's, the rows of pews were filled with muttering & murmuring rodents of every age & nationality. Light filtered through beautiful stained-glass windows with brilliantly-colored designs (e.g., a rainbow, five loaves of bread & two fish, grapes on a vine, Noah's ark, a dove with an olive branch in its mouth, a flaming sword, a cross on a hill, a bushel of wheat, etc.). Glowing chandeliers hung from the ceiling. In the very back of the sanctuary, at the altar area, a choir group sat down in a couple of benches, with the elderly mouse organist seated at her beloved instrument. The preacher was not at his post, but there was a cardboard sign on the door to his office, saying that he "would be at the pulpit shortly".
In one of the church pews, two of the seated rodents were a pair of mice. The first of these mice—a well-dressed, polite gentlemouse (wearing a top hat & monocle with his clothing)—was frowning angrily at his partner...a shabbily-dressed, rude mouse that fidgeted nervously with the hem of his clothing. Staring anxiously at his friend, the rude mouse asked, "Um, um, what time is it?"
Still glaring at the rude mouse, the polite mouse produced his pocket watch, & pointed to the time displayed upon it. "It's 12:16—not that your complaining is making the time go any faster!" the polite mouse retorted. He then stuffed his pocket watch back into his pocket, & sulked in irritation. First, my comrade wants to come with me, & now, he wants to leave! Why can't he ever make up his mind?
"Can we hurry this up? I have to go home & do some crossword puzzles," the rude mouse complained, sweating a little as he tugged on his shirt collar. He didn't want to upset his comrade, but he had so much that he desperately needed to do at home (& crossword puzzles were only one of those many tasks!).
The polite mouse grunted in annoyance as he slapped his forehead, before turning to face the rude mouse with an angry stare. "Do you realize that we are here...to support Basil Of Baker Street...at his wedding? This is neither the time or the place to fret about your bloody crossword puzzles, so kindly hush up & sit down until the wedding is over!" Upon calming down, the polite mouse sunk back into his seat, & added, "Thank you." In response, the rude mouse chuckled & smiled nervously at the polite mouse, who just glared askance at him while drumming his fingers on his knees. If you ever get married, I think I just won't come to your wedding! the polite mouse decided. That ought to teach you a lesson!
Meanwhile, in the cathedral's bridal chamber / preparation area, Victoria (dressed in her fancy undergarments) was standing in front of a tall mirror, getting ready for the wedding. Basil was standing behind her, massaging her shoulders. Smiling at his bride-to-be, Basil chirped, "Well, Victoria, it's only about 14 more minutes until the wedding! Are you ready for the big moment, dear?"
"I...I think so," Victoria replied, sounding just a little unsure. Those pre-wedding jitters were already getting a hold of her once again...& on her special day, no less! Busy butterflies danced in Victoria's tummy, making her feel just a little bit on edge.
Victoria & Basil stood in front of the mirror, looking at their reflections in its glassy surface. Still smiling from ear to ear, Basil continued to rub Victoria's shoulders as he exclaimed encouragingly, "Don't you worry about a thing, Victoria. The wedding will turn out wonderfully!" After massaging Victoria for a bit more, Basil gently removed his paws from her shoulders, & announced, "I'm going to change into my suit, & get ready for the ceremony." Basil then turned away from Victoria, & said, "I'll see you at the altar, dear!"
With that delightful prospect to look forward to, Basil started to walk away from Victoria with a confident expression. Victoria, however, didn't want her future husband to leave just yet—she needed him to take care of those pesky pre-wedding jitters! The former princess quickly turned away from the mirror to face Basil, & held out a paw towards him, halting the detective with the sound of her voice as she cried, "Basil, wait!" Basil then turned to face Victoria, who smiled nervously at her fiancee as she toyed with the hem of her petticoat, & asked, "Umm...you're not going to give me a kiss for good luck?"
Basil chuckled in amusement, shaking his head in a playful manner. "Sorry, Victoria," Basil answered puckishly, "but I'm saving the best part of the wedding for last!" With that, Basil finally left the room, leaving Victoria alone with her jitters. Ah, well, no matter...I suppose they'll just go away on their own, Victoria mused in resignation. With a wistful sigh, Victoria turned to open the armoire resting on the wall beside the mirror. Victoria pulled out a long lavender cloth, then went over to the mirror, & started to put on what would soon be her wedding dress. Before too long, Victoria's pre-wedding worries finally went away, & her heart became filled with enthusiasm & excitement for the event to come. Here we go, Victoria, old girl! the monarch-cum-matriarch declared to herself in determination. It's now or never!
In the back room behind the sanctuary of St. Paul's, Fidget—all dressed up in a neat, sleeveless black tuxedo-suit with matching trousers, shoes (well, one shoe, anyway), & a bow-tie, along with a crisp white shirt & a carnation in his jacket-breast pocket—stood in front of a tall mirror, fumbling with his bow-tie until he got it on straight. Then, Fidget quickly reached up to pat down his fur-hair, smoothing it over with his webbed hand. After making sure that he looked presentable enough, Fidget reached over to grab a purple satin pillow with two tiny diamond rings on it. Staring into the mirror as he held up the objects he had been given the duty of handling, Fidget said, "Well...dis is it, Ratigan. You ready?"
Ratigan was standing not too far away from Fidget. In accordance with the traditions of an orthodox wedding ceremony, Ratigan had temporarily abandoned his regal attire (just for today), & was wearing pretty much the same outfit that Fidget had on (but in his jacket-breast pocket, he kept a white rose tucked in, instead of a carnation). Ratigan was fidgeting & fumbling with the lapels of his tux-top. "Nearly," Ratigan replied while attempting to adjust his attire. "I'm hoping I'll be able to get these lapels straightened out before I go on!"
Olivia stood a few feet away from Ratigan. She was dressed in a pink flower-girl dress with a matching hair-bow & shoes, along with some nice jewelry. In her left paw, she clutched a basket full of daisies. "Well, I'm ready," Olivia stated, nodding her head as she looked up at Ratigan. Turning to face her cousin, Olivia asked, "Are you ready, Timmy?"
Nearby, Cousin Timmy was sitting on a stool, dressed in the same outfit as Ratigan & Fidget. He munched on some rice from a bag that he had on his lap. "Uh-huh," Cousin Timmy answered with a mouthful of rice, nodding his head. The boy then swallowed his food, & pulled the drawstrings of his rice bag, closing it shut. "Let's do this thing, Livvy!" Cousin Timmy exclaimed, hopping up from his seat, & going over to join Olivia, Ratigan, & Fidget.
No sooner did the Baker Street Kids team up than their ears perked up to the sound of applause from the sanctuary. "The preacher mouse is about to walk up to the pulpit," Ratigan reported. The reformed rogue then turned to his little sister, & instructed her, "Get ready to go on, Livvy." All ready for wedding action, Olivia started to run off with her basket of flowers, but Ratigan stopped her by grabbing her tail. "Not yet!" Ratigan admonished, pulling Olivia back. "Wait till he says for the flower girl to come out!"
In the sanctuary, the applause finally subsided when the audience members sat back down in their seats. The door to the minister's office opened, & the bespectacled preacher mouse stepped out, walking up onto the altar area, & going behind the pulpit. After appearing at his post, the preacher mouse looked at the audience with a warm smile, stretching his arms out toward the congregation of wedding attendees as he spoke to them: "Dearly beloved...we are gathered here today to celebrate the blessed union in holy mousetrimony of our city's greatest mouse detective, Basil Of Baker Street, & his cherished mate, Victoria. Today is indeed a joyful day of celebration—for the happy couple, & for all of us here in Mouse London."
At their pew, the polite mouse was sitting up with his arms crossed over his chest, glaring angrily at the rude mouse, who was leaning back in his seat, fast asleep & snoring noisily. A giant drop of drool was dripping down the rude mouse's chin, out of his hanging mouth. Meanwhile, the preacher mouse continued, "And as we wait for the groom & the best rodent to arrive, the flower girl will be making her appearance momentarily." At this point, the audience started to applaud again. The rude mouse's polite partner, looking quite irritated (& eager to arouse his impertinent friend), ribbed his accomplice hardly in the stomach, waking him up with a loud snort.
"Hey, what's the big idea?" the rude mouse yelled angrily, as he awoke from his slumber. "What the heck's going on...?!"
The polite mouse put a finger to his lips, & shushed the rude mouse, glaring at him even more as he did so. Then, the polite mouse gestured towards the wedding aisle with the extended thumb of his right hand, prompting the rude mouse to look in that direction. As he did this, the polite mouse pointed out harshly, "The wedding is starting!" Afterwards, the audience's applause continued for a few seconds, then gradually subsided. When everything was quiet again, the marriage ceremony commenced.
(CUE MUSIC: "Canon In D Minor", by Johann Pachelbel)
As the organ began to play Pachelbel's "Canon", the curtains hiding the back room parted a little, & Olivia stepped out onto the aisle, walking down the red necktie-carpet as she took daisies out of her basket, & tossed them here & there. Completely overcome by the cherubic, childlike charms of the lovable little Scotsmouse, the audience members smiled & fawned sweetly as they watched Olivia walking down the aisle & throwing flowers everywhere; some even took pictures of her with cameras. When Olivia finally got to the altar area, she turned over her nearly-empty basket of daisies, & dumped out the last few flowers onto the floor. This prompted the audience to laugh, & as they did so, Olivia couldn't help but smile & pose like the cute, adorable little angel she was.
Then, the curtains of the back room parted to reveal Basil & Ratigan, all dressed up in their tuxes, & looking mighty proud to be here. The two rodents began walking down the aisle with their arms linked together. The churchgoers could barely hide their shock & surprise when they saw Basil & Ratigan strolling side by side! Five months ago, these fursons would never have imagined that Ratigan would end up being so close to Basil—literally or figuratively—but how time had changed things...To the rest of Mouse London, it was now quite clear that Basil had not only welcomed Ratigan into his home & into his life, but that he had also come to consider him as his own son!
When Basil & Ratigan finally made it to the altar area, they unlinked their arms, then turned to face each other, & gave deep bows. Still bowing, Ratigan walked back out to join Olivia by her side. He then stood up fully erect, before turning to smile down at Olivia. Olivia looked up at Ratigan to return the smile, & then, both Olivia & Ratigan turned to face Basil with the same supportive expressions. Basil returned Olivia & Ratigan's smiles, then turned his head to look back out towards the aisle, ultimately focusing his gaze on the curtains hiding the entrance to the back room. At this point, Pachelbel's "Canon" stopped playing, & the cathedral fell quiet again. The organist looked out towards the aisle with a smile, then turned to look back at the sheet music on her stand. She turned the page, glanced at it, & adjusted her fingers over the keys of the organ to begin playing the next song. Basil could feel his heart thumping & pumping in his chest, as a horde of happy butterflies danced in his belly. Here it is, Basil, the detective thought to himself in eager excitement. This is the moment you've been waiting for!
(CUE MUSIC: "Bridal Chorus", from Richard Wagner's "Lohengrin")
As the Bridal Chorus started to play on the organ, the curtains parted to reveal Victoria in the back room. Victoria was clad in a beautiful lavender silk wedding dress, with a matching pair of shoes on her feet, & a lace veil (light-lavender in color) hanging over her face; she held a bouquet of light-pink roses in her hands. After standing still in her starting spot for a few seconds, Victoria emerged from the back room, & made her way down the aisle, getting closer & closer to the altar with every step. When Victoria finally got close enough to her destination, she stopped at the entrance to the preacher's platform, pausing as a smiling Basil turned to face his bride, & gently extended his hand to her. Unable to resist smiling back at Basil, Victoria took her lover's paw, letting him help her up onto the altar.
As she came up onto the platform with Basil, Victoria smiled down at Olivia, & then tossed her the bouquet of roses. Upon catching her gift, Olivia smiled happily as she gently cradled the nosegay of flowers in her arms. Then, still holding the rose bouquet, the mouseling looked up at Victoria with a delighted grin. I'll be sure to thank my new godmother for this after the wedding is over! Olivia thought gratefully. The Bridal Chorus came to an end as soon as Victoria stepped up to the pulpit with Basil, standing by her future groom's side as she held his paw in hers. Now standing in front of the pastor's podium, the two mice both looked up at the preacher mouse with pleasant smiles, & vice versa.
"Mr. Basil...& Victoria...we all wish to welcome you, on the blessed day of your marriage, here at St. Paul's Cathedral!" the preacher mouse proclaimed with another grand, sweeping flourish of his arms. Everyone in the room applauded, & only when the clapping & cheering finally died down, did the preacher mouse continue speaking. "And, now, for the vows," the preacher mouse declared, continuing to share smiles with Basil & Victoria. "Do you, Basil Of Baker Street, take Victoria, er...Chapplemouse...to be your lawful wedded wife...to have & to hold, for richer or poorer, through thick & thin, through good times & bad, in sickness & in health, as long as you both shall live?" the preacher mouse asked. [22]
Basil smiled at Victoria, then nodded at the preacher mouse as he replied, "I do."
"And do you, Victoria, take Basil to be your lawful wedded husband...to have & to hold, for richer or poorer, through thick & thin, through good times & bad, in sickness & in health, as long as you both shall live?" the preacher mouse asked.
Victoria smiled at Basil, then nodded at the preacher mouse as she replied, "I do."
With a widening smile, the preacher mouse cried pleasantly, "Excellent! And, now, if the ring-bearer will kindly step out of the back room to present the wedding rings to the betrothed..." When nothing happened, the puzzled preacher mouse looked about both ways, then looked out at the audience again, & asked, "Uhhh...has anyone seen the ring-bearer?"
Another moment of awkward silence passed, before the rear curtains finally parted to reveal Fidget, who looked quite panicked as he scampered madly out of the back room & into the sanctuary, holding the purple pillow with the two wedding rings. "Wait! WAIT! Here I am!" Fidget yelled frantically. "Don't start without me!" Heaving with effort, Fidget proceeded to dash madly down the aisle, jostling the pillow with the rings about as he carried it in his hands, hurrying to make it to the altar. When he finally got to the preacher's platform, Fidget skidded to a stop between Basil & Victoria, his peg-leg & shoe screeching like car tires. An exhausted Fidget then slumped over, panting for breath, as he held up the pillow with the wedding rings to Basil & Victoria.
Basil & Victoria each took their individual ring from the pillow, then turned their heads to watch Fidget, who dropped the pillow to the ground, & wearily wobbled over to join Ratigan & Olivia on the side of the altar. Upon meeting up with his surrogate siblings, Fidget let out a final exhale as he fainted to the floor beside them. With a puzzled shrug of their shoulders, Basil & Victoria walked over to each other, & prepared to put on their wedding rings. "And, now," the preacher mouse announced to the audience, "Basil & Victoria will proceed with the next part of our ceremony: the sharing of the rings."
Basil smiled at Victoria, then took her paw in his. With his other paw, Basil reached in to place a golden wedding ring on the second finger of Victoria's right hand. As he did this, Basil said, "With this ring...I, thee wed."
"With this ring...I, thee wed," Victoria repeated, placing Basil's wedding ring on the second finger of his left hand.
Once this symbolic action was completed, the preacher mouse smiled down at Basil & Victoria, & said warmly, "I now pronounce you husbandmouse & wife. You may now kiss the bride."
(CUE MUSIC: "Wedding March", from Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream")
As the organ began to play Mendelssohn's "Wedding March", Basil & Victoria leaned in closer...& closer...& closer. They puckered up...their lips touched...& they kissed. The tender moment was met with wild applause as Basil & Victoria wrapped their arms tightly around one another, still kissing. Meanwhile, Olivia, Ratigan, & Fidget admired the amorous adults from their positions on the side of the altar. (Olivia was still holding the bouquet of flowers that Victoria gave her earlier.) As she watched Basil & Victoria kissing with a sweet, adoring expression, Olivia's smile gradually widened, & her eyes misted a little, but she reached up a paw to wipe away her tears with a tiny finger. At the same time, Ratigan & Fidget were quickly becoming choked up with emotion; tears filled their eyes, & started floating down towards their smiles. "I love moments like this!" Ratigan exclaimed ecstatically.
"Yeah, love!" Fidget agreed with a sniffle. "Not like..."
"Love!" Ratigan & Fidget cried together. Both of the ex-criminals embraced one another tightly as they started crying their hearts out. Their tears landed on Olivia, who scowled at her big brothers as she tried to cover herself with her arms. [23]
After what seemed like eternity, Basil & Victoria finally parted lips, breaking their kiss off with a graceful gentleness, & smiled at one another once again, each gazing deeply into the other's eyes with a look that simply could not hide the overwhelming, overflowing feelings of love & affection that filled their hearts. This is it, they thought together. This is the beginning of a new life...for all of us.With a hearty laugh, Basil took Victoria into his arms, & began carrying her off the altar, whisking her down the aisle.
Outside, the double-doors to the mouse entrance of St. Paul's Cathedral opened, & Basil & Victoria rushed out, followed by Olivia, Ratigan, Fidget, Cousin Timmy (who made sure to throw plenty of rice around), Hiram, Mrs. Judson, & Dr. Dawson. After Dr. Dawson exited with the rest of the Baker Street Family, the preacher mouse, the polite mouse, & all the other churchgoers came out to cheer, applaud, wave, & give their "goodbyes" & best wishes to Basil & Victoria. (The rude mouse, however, spent his time picking rice off the ground, & eating it.) And, so, the Great Mouse Detective, his new wife, & all of his loved ones went off to start their wonderful new lives together...
[1] Interestingly, in the film version of GMD 2, Victoria is Queen Mousetoria's long-lost granddaughter, who was kidnapped by Mouses Fiennes as a baby, & escaped to freedom at age 15.
[2] Alas, a time machine is the only piece of new technology that Madame Ratburn & Anya haven't invented...& never will. (Of course, they have very good reasons for making this decision...)
[3] Like his human counterpart, King Edward was a son of King George III, so it's not surprising that His Majesty inherited some of his father's infamous mental afflictions.
[4] And, now, we all know why Victoria (despite her 75 years) is able to display incredible strength, perform daring feats of bravery, naturally bear children, maintain her youthful appearance, & live to a ripe old age of 120! ^_^
Incidentally, the established existence of the Philosopher's Stone in this universe may come as a bit of a surprise to you...but readers ought to remember that my GMD Fanfic World has a much greater, more complex, more expansive, more open-minded, & far less concrete view of reality than the original film provides. (Then again, what is "reality", anyway?)
[5] Translated into English, the phrase means, "Ah, & that is why we live, miss!"
[6] If anyone gets that reference, they shall be handsomely rewarded with a plate full of delicious Internet cookies! ^_^
[7] Oddly enough, Hiram neglected to mention the fact that it was Basil Of Baker Street himself who saved Hiram & Olivia from the crushing wheels of the human's carriage. This heroic rescue takes place in one of the chapters of "Ratigan's Story" (which will be rewritten, revised, & reuploaded to this website soon).
[8] Yes, Basil does have feminine clothes, wigs, & accessories in his house. After all, there are times when the Great Mouse Detective will have to disguise himself in drag...
[9] If you can visualize all the details about Victoria's outfit in your mind, you will find that her clothing closely resembles that of her sister (but it still has enough variations to keep Victoria's character design unique).
[10] This is a rough translation for that unusual Latin phrase.
[11] As you can probably tell, Saint Marie De Touraine is the mouse version of Joan Of Arc.
[12] Fidget chose this particular bookmark, because it reflected his American heritage. Long story about that...but don't worry! All will be revealed in Fidget's multi-stage character bio, soon to be uploaded on my GMD website.
[13] The name of this department store chain was borrowed from a "Rescuers" story in Disney's book "365 Bedtime Stories".
[14] Having spent much of her life as a commoner, Victoria came to acquire eclectic tastes in pretty much everything, let alone music.
[15] Sometimes, things in the rodent world may share names with their counterparts from the human world, but not themes, appearances, plots, characters, lyrics, music, text, etc.
[16] Of course, now that Ratigan's reformed, he wouldn't dream of acting out on his anger in such a manner!
[17] A dear friend of mine has been reading & reviewing my script for the film version of GMD 2, & during our E-mail discussions regarding her feedback, I've been thinking a lot more deeply about this story, & all the things that happen in it. Such musings are increasingly encouraging me to try & explain all the whys & wherefores of the workings of GMD 2's plot, so that every little thing will all make sense to you.
[18] Goldini's Italian Restaurant is the mouse version of a human restaurant with the same name, featured in the Sherlock Holmes story "The Adventure Of The Bruce-Partington Plans". Unlike its rodent counterpart, however, the human Goldini's is located on Gloucester Road in the Kensington district of London.
[19] One of the many ways that my vision of Basil Of Baker Street breaks free from the stereotypical mold.
[20] You don't know how much trouble I had trying to format that one little part of the song... XD
[21] Which is rather ironic, given that yin represents masculine characteristics, & yang represents feminine characteristics.
[22] Chapplemouse is the surname of the manager of the Chez Chic, who took Victoria into his home after her banishment from Buckingham Palace.
[23] One of my friends & fellow GMD fans told me that this was one of her favorite references in the story! ^_^
