A/n: So, picking up from the train sickness 221 (poor Holmes), I'm starting an arc and have not much idea where it will go. Let's find out! XD This second installment is quite low-key and fluffy, just getting things started and giving a little background information. ^.^ I'd like to think of a name for this arc, like my Spooky arc. Haven't thought of one yet.
Well, enjoy--and review if you have time and inclination.
"It's no wonder the train stopped for such a short time—I don't think anyone lives near here at all." Holmes closed one eye and tossed a pebble; it came to a clattery halt on the edge of a wooden slat. "Blast! So close…"
"Is the fresh air helping, Holmes?"
"That, and getting off the infernal train. I expected better from the South Western. Taking case notes?"
"Yes, just bits I was remembering. I'll need your help later, filling it in and all."
He put a hand over his waistcoat. "I'm filled in enough already. I don't know why I agreed to staying for breakfast—if a client really wanted to make up for lost time, they should--"
"Did you get to the black pudding?"
"Are you listening to me?"
"No, sorry."
"Watson, I've just lost a good deal of time to a simple three-pipe. I'm fortunate I didn't lose my breakfast as well. The least you can do is—"
"Sorry," I mumbled again.
Holmes fell silent, his long fingers selecting pebbles. He examined each one closely before dropping it in his ammunition heap. "No, I never did," he said at last, holding up an irregularly-shaped stone.
"Never did what?"
"Tasted the black pudding. By the time it caught my eye, I was finishing half a rasher of bacon."