Chapter 1
"…Her Majesty, Queen Victoria, safely arrived in Paris, meeting the president, Félix Faure, on the Eiffel Tower. They discussed military placement issues in Northern Africa, as well as their Alliance in the case of a breakout between the two "powers" of Europe…" Watson shuttered at the conclusion of the article. "By Jove! If a war broke out in Europe, the whole world could come crashing down around it!"
Holmes, staring out the window with pipe in hand, mumbled "twice."
"Pardon me?" responded Watson, folding up the fresh newspaper, and setting it upon the coffee-table in front of the large fireplace.
"Nothing," replied Holmes, "It's just suspicion, and a bit of logic."
"Explain," commanded Watson, slightly raising his voice.
"It's simply elementary," started Holmes, placing his pipe on the bookshelf, and turning to face Watson, "You see, if a simple reporter could predict a major war, then I can deduce that it is a common suspicion. Otherwise, it wouldn't be printed in a highly respected print, such as 'the Times.' Furthermore, if such a war took place, it should most likely start in one of the many countries located between Greece and Romania. No matter the conflict, weather it be an assassination or simple kidnapping, it's only safe to assume that Germany, and it's growing armies, shall over-estimate it's power. In over-estimating, the Kaiser would lose more men then necessary, severely depleting his army. Then, assuming the United States sides with France and Britain, Germany will be overpowered."
"Remarkable, Sherlock," replied Watson, "How it seems so obvious now…"
"That's not all, my dear friend," added Holmes, "As I have only summarized the first of two Great Wars…" He then took to sit in his leather chair, warming himself while he continued. "The victors of the war will most likely act too harshly against Germany, providing nearly-evil consequences. In doing so, an almost worldwide famine of debt will spread, since the countries have to trade for supplies."
"…And Germany's loss of money will create inflation, which will eventually lead to debt," jolted Watson, "ingenious!"
"Following the debt, Germany will attempt to regain it's former glory, by starting another war. But this one I am uncertain of the outcome."
"Why, Holmes?"
"Simply put," he finished, "It depends on what kind of army Germany is able to gather up, and who commands it. Just in guessing," concluded Holmes, "The broken-hearted Germans may choose a radical man whom could hide evil ideas, those of which would completely surpass James Moriarty's schemes!"
"Great Scott!" replied Watson, "I hope to not see these events in my lifetime!"
"On the contrary, John, these events will most likely occur within the first three decades of the twentieth century!"
"In that case," finished Watson, taking a sip of afternoon tea, "let's live up the time we have before total war…"
At that, the two took to bed, as the grandfather clock struck ten.