Hello! Sorry about the delay, I have been working on this exciting three-part chapter we are about begin. There will be a few clues (and red herrings) regarding the Viper's identity throughout the three parts, so I hope you all have fun reading!


Two weeks went by, however, and Basil's attempts to apprehend the Viper remained fruitless. Fidget was also frequently spying on them, just like his boss had instructed, but no-one had ever noticed him. In those two weeks, word had spread that King Edward was holding a grand party but Basil wasn't interested. He had overestimated his confidence, and because of this Basil was starting to sink into another deep depression, like the one he had had in Ratigan's lair, after the criminal mastermind had mocked his intelligence.

''Poor Mr Basil,'' Mrs Judson said one morning sorrowfully, as Basil lay on the blue couch silently as if he was in a catatonic state. ''He's finally cracked.''

''Yes,'' Dawson agreed. ''He always does this when met with a failure on a case, but I don't think I've seen him this depressed since we were tied to Ratigan's mousetrap.''

''Mr Basil, please pull yourself together!' Mrs Judson cried in exasperation. ''Miss Olivia is getting upset!''

Hiram put an arm around his daughter as she stared at Basil helplessly. ''Don't feel bad, dear,'' he said. ''I'm sure you can find a way to help him.''

Olivia looked anxious. ''I want to help him, Daddy, more than anything.''

She looked back at Basil and Mrs Judson's words from the other week played in her mind: ''I know the slightest failure disheartens you, but I will not tolerate you yelling at Miss Olivia or her father!'' Thinking about everything she had seen regarding Basil's behaviour, she knew this was true: he got miserable when the bullet experiment to find Ratigan had failed, he got depressed in the villain's lair when he had outsmarted him, just before she and her father had left, Dawson told her that in the aftermath of her kidnapping at the hands of Fidget, Basil was furious with both the doctor and himself and, of course, he had a similar outburst when he had failed to find a clue to Butch's identity at her father's toyshop.

Her mind was reeling with questions. Why did Basil let the slightest failure eat away at him? Why would he always have outbursts or meltdowns? Did something happen in his past to make him this way? Olivia suspected the answer to that last question was yes. With this in mind, she turned to Dawson.

''Doctor, can I talk to you for a moment? I don't want to say it in front of William.''

''Of course, my dear,'' said the good doctor.

Mrs Judson and Hiram assured her they would keep an eye on Basil, and Olivia and Dawson went into the kitchen.

''What is it, Olivia?'' Dawson asked.

''Doctor, as I told you when Father and I came back, I had studied some medical areas in school and college. Based on William's behaviour, that he always reduces to depression or meltdowns when coming across some sort of failure, and with his profession, do you think he suffers from some sort of shell-shock or severe stress-disorder?''

Dawson swallowed. ''Yes, Olivia, I have always suspected it, and when Basil told me about his past, it confirmed it. It was triggered by the incident with his family that made Basil vow not to get close to anyone, and he has been struggling with the grief and guilt for all these years, but he keeps it hidden.''

''So you think he might be dealing with survivor's guilt as well?''

Dawson nodded.

Olivia was alarmed. She dreaded to think what Basil and his family had gone through but she didn't want to pressure him for answers, as she had made clear sometime ago. But whatever it was that had happened, Olivia vowed to be there for her detective no matter what.

''I know it's a serious condition to suffer from,'' Dawson said gently, putting a comforting hand on her shoulder, ''but I know if anyone can help him overcome it, it's you, my dear.''

Olivia felt tears in her eyes and hugged Dawson tightly. ''Poor William,'' she whispered. ''He's been suffering with this and never once asked for help, but we both know how stubborn he is.''

''I know. I tried to confront him about it many times but he always rebuffed the subject, but I believe he may listen to you.''

They pulled apart and Olivia wiped away her tears. ''I'll do my best, doctor. I won't let him suffer in silence anymore. I will provide him with the support he needs, just like you did with Pauline.''

Olivia and Dawson left the kitchen and back to couch, where Basil had remained, unmoving. Olivia knelt down beside him. ''William?'' she asked gently.

Basil slowly turned to face Olivia. ''How could I have thought catching the Viper would be any easier than it was twelve years ago?'' he moaned.

''William, I know you don't like letting yourself or those around you down, but it's natural. You're only rodent, it's understandable to let a failure attempt on a case upset you, but you can't –''

''The Viper is cleverer than us, Olivia, we will never learn his identity.''

Olivia sighed. She didn't want to use force, but she had no choice if it was going to snap her beloved detective out of it. ''William, you asked for it,'' she said firmly, and she leaned down and pressed her mouth on his in a long, passionate kiss.

Dawson, Hiram and Mrs Judson watched in nervous anticipation. When Olivia broke the kiss, Basil blinked and sat up, looking more like himself, though his face was still a little pale. ''Livy,'' he said with a small, tired smile, ''thank you for snapping me out of my ridiculous meltdown.'' He hugged her tightly. ''I'm so sorry you had to see me like that, though – I mean, you did see me like that nine years ago in Ratigan's lair but –''

Olivia put a finger to Basil's lips and looked deep into his eyes. ''It's not your fault, William. It's in your nature. Doctor Dawson and I believe you are suffering from some sort of shell-shock or stress-disorder, and you have done ever since whatever it was what happened with your family. I studied in college that those suffering from similar conditions as you, it stems from some sort of traumatic experience they've endured, like you.''

Basil nodded slowly; tears welled up in his eyes. ''You don't need to say anything,'' Olivia continued. ''When you're ready to talk about the past, just say so, there is need to rush. No matter what happens, I will always be there for you no matter what. Try as you might, I am not going anywhere.''

She kissed his forehead.

''Olivia …'' The tears rolled down Basil's face and he pulled her in for another deep passionate kiss. ''What have I done to deserve you?''

Olivia shrugged with a smile. This was one of the reasons why she loved this brave, brilliant and intelligent rodent so much: behind that smart exterior, Basil was just a regular guy with the same feelings and vulnerabilities as anyone else.

''We will capture the Viper together,'' Olivia said, wiping Basil's tears with her thumb. ''He won't evade our grasp this time.''

''You're right,'' Basil said. ''Ratigan was the one who caused irreversible harm to my family that night,'' he added darkly, ''but you already knew this, didn't you?''

Olivia confirmed she did.

Dawson, Hiram and Mrs Judson passed each other handkerchiefs to wipe their own eyes, for the beautiful moment was just too much. Basil apologised to them for his behaviour. Hiram patted his shoulder and told him not to worry.

''I have a right mind to box your ears for making Miss Olivia worry,'' Mrs Judson said to her master sternly, putting her hands in her hips, ''but I won't.''

Everyone laughed – before the moment was interrupted by a loud knock at the door. Dawson volunteered to get it and there stood Helen and Charlie. ''Morning, everyone!'' Helen said cheerfully. ''I bumped into Charlie on the way so we walked here together. Sorry I haven't visited for a while, been busy with my art.''

''Hello!'' Charlie said, a little too enthusiastically, waving a hand in a childish yet flamboyant fashion.

''Morning, Helen,'' Basil said. ''Please do come in. You, too, Mr Bennett,'' he added reluctantly, frowning and standing up to be close to Olivia, the jealous monster inside his belly reawakening.

''How delightful so see you again, Miss Baker,'' Mrs Judson said warmly. ''I would very much like to see some of your work sometime.''

Helen nodded in appreciation, and hugged Hiram and Olivia. ''Glad you're still pursuing your dream of being an artist, Helen,'' the toymaker said.

''How are things with Peter?'' Olivia teased with a grin.

Helen blushed. ''Well, I haven't really had the chance to talk to him,'' she said shyly, ''and –''

''Olivia!'' Charlie cried happily and pounced on her into a big hug. ''Don't worry, your knight in shining armour is here now! I won't let anything to you or your father again!''

''Thank you, Charlie,'' Olivia giggled nervously, ''but –''

Charlie looked up and froze when he saw he wasn't hugging Olivia, but rather Basil, who was glaring at him with his arms folded. ''Oh, Mr Basil!'' the young man exclaimed, removing himself from his hero. ''Pardon me, I am so sorry!'' He looked past him to see Olivia standing behind him. ''There you are, Olivia!''

Olivia, Basil, Helen and Hiram all sighed and shook their heads.

''So, how is the case?'' Charlie asked eagerly. ''Have you caught that Viper fiend yet? Do you need me help yet, Mr Basil?''

''No, we haven't apprehended the Viper just yet,'' Basil said, doing his best to be calm and polite. ''And no, we don't need your help yet, Mr Bennett.''

''Just say the word, Mr Basil, and I will assist you and my darling Olivia in any way I can!''

Mrs Judson and Helen was about to say something when Hiram stopped them. ''Olivia, dear, I think you have something to tell Charlie,'' he said.

''What is it, Mr Flaversham?'' Charlie asked.

''Charlie,'' Olivia said gently, ''you're a nice guy, perhaps a little too clingy, but you mean no harm, you're passionate about everything you enjoy but … I'm afraid I am now spoken for.''

There was an uncomfortable atmosphere felt around the room. Abruptly, Charlie let out a high-pitched giggle. ''This is a joke, right?'' he said, his eyes twitching slightly. ''Right, Olivia?''

Olivia shook her head. ''I'm afraid not, Charlie. I am no longer single.''

''Oh.''

''It's not that I don't like you or anything,'' she added quickly, ''it's just that I love him so much, I always have.''

Charlie smiled sadly. ''I understand. After all, you can't choose who you fall in love with, after all,'' he said, unconvincingly. ''I always knew deep down I wouldn't be chosen; you're so beautiful I'm not surprised some bachelor has swooped in and won you.''

''So we can still be friends?'' Olivia added nervously.

Charlie swallowed. ''Of course,'' he said, with great difficulty. ''But, Mr Flaverhsam,'' he added, turning to Hiram curiously, ''who is the lucky man who has snatched dear, sweet Olivia's heart?''

Hiram beamed at his daughter, and Helen smiled as she knew who her best friend's future betrothed was. Charlie followed his gaze and saw Basil put his arm around Olivia and the penny dropped, as did his jaw. ''Mr Basil?'' he gasped incredulously.

Helen let out a scream of elate and hugged the couple. ''It's finally happened! I knew you had it in you, Olivia!'' she said ecstatically. ''Can I paint a picture of you two sometime?''

''Of course you can, Miss Helen,'' Basil said, blushing.

''But – but – my idol is the bachelor?'' Charlie spluttered incredulously. ''But, Mr Basil, you're so much older than Olivia.''

''I am 34-years-old, and if you do the maths, you will see that the age-gap between Olivia and myself is fifteen years,'' Basil said matter-of-factly. ''All that matters is that Olivia and I love each other.''

''Charlie,'' Dawson piped up, ''in my many years as a doctor, I have met many couples with age differences, some even larger than Basil and Olivia's, so it is quite common.''

''I don't doubt what you both say is true,'' Charlie said hesitantly, ''but Mr Flaversham, you actually approve of Mr Basil?''

''Indeed I do. William is a man that I can trust to treat my little girl with the love and care she needs. She can handle herself, but I still want her to be provided with protection, and I have utmost confidence that William will deliver on that promise.''

Basil looked touched.

Charlie's face softened slightly, but still had traces of incredulousness. ''You really do, Mr Flaversham? As I said, you can't help who you love, but Olivia, you can't just court someone just because he saved you and you father from that Ratigan. Also, no of offense, Mr Basil, but you're reputed not only for being very intelligent – which I totally admire – but for being, well, not very sociable, and you were quite arrogant in the past.''

''Charlie!'' Helen cried. ''How dare –''

Olivia held up her hand for silence, indicating she would handle his. ''Look Charlie,'' she said, ''I do love him for saving my father, but that's not the only reason. William is the most brilliant, bravest rodent I have ever met. Yes, when we first met nine years ago, he was bad-tempered and rude to me, but that's all in the past and besides, it was because he was struggling with some sort tragic past incident. He may be eccentric and bad at socialising, but that's okay. Not even William, the most intelligent rodent ever, is perfect. We formed an emotional bond nine years ago and now that I'm grown-up, our connection has strengthened.''

Basil wanted to cry again but forced himself to remain calm. Helen got teary-eyed in his place and Mrs Judson comforted her.

Immediately, and to everyone's shock, Charlie burst into tears. ''I'm so sorry, Mr Basil!'' he howled, kneeling to the floor. ''I didn't realise there was such a thing as emotional bond! I had a sheltered upbringing due to my aunt's overprotectiveness so I always thought love was based on looks or personality. How can I have been so rude to my idol?!''

Basil stared at Charlie, conflicted. He was showing vulnerability, and the detective even saw some elements of himself whenever he suffered a meltdown, but Basil couldn't shake of the untrustworthy vibe he still felt. Nevertheless, he told Charlie he forgave him.

''Do you forgive me, Olivia?'' Charlie asked in a small voice, sniffling.

''William forgives you, so do I,'' Olivia replied, ''as long as you promise to stop being clingy to me.''

''You were my first love, Olivia, so it's going to take me a while but I will do my best. If I'm going to be a detective someday, I'll need to toughen up.''

''I don't think that's the issue, Charlie,'' Helen said, handing him a hanky. ''You're not a bad person, but what I think your problem is that you lack empathy. From what I've heard from Olivia and read in newspapers on Mr Basil's cases, a detective must understand the client's situation.''

''Very impressive, Miss Helen,'' Basil said proudly, beaming.

Charlie stood up, wiping his tears away. ''You're all right,'' he said. ''I will train to be more understanding of deeper feelings and someday I will find a girl who will like me even if she's not as beautiful as Olivia.''

''See that you do,'' Hiram said. ''No offense, Charlie, but I was never comfortable with you beg so clingy to my daughter.''

Basil, meanwhile, wrapped a possessive arm around Olivia, who nudged his shoulder. ''See? I told you Charlie always bounces back,'' she whispered.

Basil gave his girl a small nod before turning back to Charlie, but he second, he did he stared at the young man as though he was seeing him for the first time. Basil mentally noted that Charlie was just a few inches shorter than himself – the same height as the Viper. Was it possible that …?

What am I thinking? Basil's inner thoughts said to him. It's impossible for Charlie to be the Viper! He is the same age as Olivia, and they were only about a-year-old when the Viper first appeared in 1888! Besides, Charlie has a tail and has no problem with his left arm, although he could be using all his will power to fight back the pain from the burns I gave him in case it gives it away, and – no, stop! Oh my word, maybe Olivia's right, perhaps I AM just letting my jealousy get the best of me!

''… well, I think I'd best be off now,'' Charlie said, having clearly started talking while Basil was wrestling with his thoughts. Olivia gave Basil a funny look but didn't say anything. ''Bye for now, everyone.''

He blew a kiss to Olivia, and the jealous monster inside Basil's stomach was roaring like mad, while Olivia just shook her head with a sigh.

Hiam put a hand in his daughter's shoulder. ''Don't worry, dear,'' he whispered, as Charlie reached the door. ''Give it time.''

Olivia suddenly thought of something. ''Oh, and Charlie, William and I would appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone about us.''

''Yes,'' Basil agreed, ''if the Viper was to find out, he would use my love for Olivia to his advantage.''

Charlie threw a military salute. ''We can't have that creep do that. Don't worry, Olivia, Mr Basil, your secret is safe with me.''

Just as Charlie grabbed the door handle, there was another knock and Charlie opened it automatically. There stood two official royal guards from Buckingham Palace. ''Is Mr Basil in?'' one of them asked, stepping into the flat.

''Yes,'' Basil said. ''How may I help you?''

The guard gave Basil an envelope. ''King Edward is inviting you to the grand party which he is holding tonight. Doctor Dawson, you are also invited, if you wish to come.''

Basil looked at the envelope for a moment before answering. ''Tell the king I will be there, but may I invite Olivia as well?''

''Olivia Flaversham?'' the guard repeated, looking at father and daughter. ''I am sure His Majesty would be happy to see her, and her father as well.''

''May Miss Helen come here come, too?'' Basil asked, gesturing to Olivia's best friend.

''Helen doesn't do parties, I'm afraid,'' Olivia informed him.

''Yes, I'm not big on events,'' Helen said shyly. ''Besides, my father has already been invited. The king admires Father's journalism.''

''Very well,'' said the guards. ''We will see you all then. Good day, Mr Basil.''

The two guards exited the house in a comical march and Charlie followed after them. ''See you tomorrow night, Olivia, Mr Basil, I will be at the party also as my aunt is a very special guest. You'll see what I mean when you meet her.'' He giggled. ''Bye!'' Charlie waved his hand childishly as the door closed behind him.

''Are we really going, William?'' Olivia asked.

''Of course,'' Basil said, grinning. ''I suspect our Viper friend won't be able to resist attending such a grand event, and it would be the perfect opportunity for us to finally capture him, or at least obtain a clue.''

''And if that Butch Mitchell appears with his boss, he had better watch out for me,'' Olivia said, frowning deeply.

''And me,'' Hiram said. ''I'm going, too. Don't argue,'' he added firmly, as Olivia and Basil opened their mouths in protest.

''What about you, doctor?'' Basil asked, turning to his assistant. ''If you wish to opt out and stay with Pauline, do so.''

''I will come. Pauline is staying at Sally's so she'll be in safe hands. Her sickness is getting better so perhaps it was just a stomach bug. Not to mention, if I didn't go and my medical services were required, Pauline would never forgive me.'' The good doctor was still worried about what Pauline's sickness really was, but given it was easing perhaps he was thinking too much.

Basil nodded. ''Very well. Everyone, we will need to wear disguises, so let's get them ready.'' Basil grinned. ''The Viper will never know what's hit him.''


On the other side of London, not far from the sewer, at the abandoned opera house, the elderly figure, his hood still up, was in the Viper's dressing room, emptying the large trunk in one corner of the room and carefully placing the Viper's most prized possessions into three large blue bags: aristocratic clothes, disguises and wigs, the journals belonging to the late professor, the make-up box, the certificate, a large bag of materials used to make dolls and, of course, the small white blanket that was big enough for a new born baby. When he was done, he opened the door and handed the bags to Spike and Cliff (Fidget tried to lift a bag but it crushed him).

The elderly mouse closed the door and looked around the empty room. ''Oh, master,'' he said with deep sympathy, ''as I have been a surrogate father to you your whole life, I share the pain you have gone through. I may not be as young as I once was but I will help you until the day I die.''

He looked up when he abruptly heard Fidget's voice from the other side of the door. ''Welcome back, boss,'' Fidget said, and the elderly mouse could detect a hint of nervousness in his voice, and rightly so. His employer was a very clever rodent, using such an unusual voice that could intimidate people. He always enjoyed hearing it.

''Thank you, Fidget,'' his master said, and the figure smiled under his hood. ''Did you do what I asked in regarding my other plan?''

''Yes, boss, he's all set.''

''Excellent,'' the Viper chuckled. ''Those parasites will be so freaked out. Now, where is my oldest friend?''

''In your dressing room.''

''I shall see to him,'' said the Viper, and in a second the door swung open and the Viper stepped in, closing the door behind them. ''Hello, my dear old friend,'' the Viper, in a voice full of warmth.

''Master,'' said the elderly hooded figure, bowing respectfully, ''welcome back. How did it go with His Majesty?''

The Viper laughed. ''Worked like a charm,'' they said smugly. ''The old fool doesn't suspect a thing. Once the time is right, King Edward's time will be up, but not just yet.''

''I'm glad to hear it.''

''From the looks of those bags, I see you have already packed everything I need.''

''Affirmative, as I always have done.''

The Viper pulled the elderly mouse into a tight hug. ''You didn't have to do that, I could very easily have done it myself, especially as you're now getting on in years.''

''Maybe so, but I have been waiting on you ever since you were just a youngster, and I am not going to stop now. Whatever my employer requires, I will do so.''

The Viper reached into their pocket and pulled out a lace blue hanky. ''It touches my heart to hear that. You have always understood me, more than my goody two-shoes father ever did.''

''Do you have your other valuables, master?'' the elderly figure asked.

''Right here with me,'' the Viper said, patting the cloak pockets. The Viper then walked to the mirror and glared at both the mirror's newspaper articles of Basil and the two voodoo dolls on the desk. ''Thanks to that scrawny runt of a detective and little insect Miss Flaversham, I lost everything!'' the Viper spat, and sank to the floor in tears, howling dramatically.

''Calm down, master,'' the figure said soothingly, kneeling down and rubbing the Viper's right arm in comfort, as father would do to his child, ''vengeance shall be yours.''

Instantly, the Viper giggled. ''Indeed, it shall,'' they said.

From outside the door, Fidget was listening in and getting the feeling of deja-vu. The Viper's erratic behaviour yet again made him wonder if his suspicions as to who his employer was was correct, but, of course, if he dared ask the bat knew he would cease to exist.

The dressing room door opened and the Viper and the elderly figure emerged. ''Now, my friends, are we all set to our move?''

Spike and Cliff gave their boss a respectable salute, while the elderly mouse picked up one of the blue bags as though it was a delicate treasure.

''Good, good,'' said the Viper happily, holding their hands down in front of them in a graceful manner. ''I presume you all know where we are moving to? You should, Fidget, given you lived there for a long time.''

Fidget giggled nervously, indicating he meant yes. Why do we have to move to that place? he thought to himself. I hate the sewer. I don't want to go back there. Too many bad memories! I was nearly made kitty chow!

The Viper mimicked the bat's giggle before turning to the twins. ''Spike, Cliff, I trust you know the plan for tonight?''

The twins nodded.

''Are you sure you don't need my help, Master?'' the elderly hooded figure asked.

The Viper pulled the elderly figure into another tight hug. ''You are my oldest and dearest friend, and I am not going risk that insufferable pipsqueak doing you harm. You and Fidget will stay here.''

''Why do I need to stay put?'' Fidget asked before he could stop himself.

The Viper sighed impatiently. ''Use your brains, you imbecile,'' they snapped. ''Your peg-leg is so distinct Basil and his friends will recognise it immediately and know you're alive.''

''I understand, boss,'' Fidget said meekly, hunching up small.

''Butch, Spike, Cliff and my inside man are all I need. Talking of which,'' the Viper added, looking around, ''where is Butch?''

''I'm here, boss,'' said a voice, and they all looked to see Butch, having entered from one of the back exits, pulling down his hood in one hand and carrying a pint in the other.

''Where have you been, Butch?'' the Viper demanded, immediately getting right into his face.

Butch was paralysed with fear. The Viper was angry with him and Butch was at risk of having his head popped off. ''I'm sorry, sir,'' he said in a very small voice, as though he was faced with a lion. ''It was getting stuffy so I went out to get some fresh air.''

''When you should've been helping with the packing?''

''Packing?'' Butch looked and saw the rest of the boys with the blue bags. ''We're moving?''

''To a new hideout, but only temporary,'' the Viper informed him. ''I have many scattered across London.''

''The Viper doesn't like staying in one place for very long so we move from hideout to hideout,'' said the elderly figure. ''Spike and Cliff have contacts so we can borrow a four-legged friend for transport.''

''This opera house is my most favourite, for I have many fond memories of coming here in my youth, but for now I must move on.'' The Viper blew a kiss to the walls.

Butch scratched the back of his neck. ''Oh, I see. Sorry, boss, it won't happen again.''

''See that it doesn't,'' said the Viper, but then stared at the pint in Butch's hand. ''And what is that you're drinking?''

''Rodent's Delight,'' Butch replied. ''I thought I'd go to the Rat Trap one last time for old time's sake and –''

''YOU IDIOT!'' the Viper shouted, slapping Butch's face, making him drop the drink.

Fidget caught the pint and happily drank the rest of it, until the Viper thumped him on the head with a fist, causing the bat to stumble comically. ''How much of that did you drink?'' the Viper demanded, holding Butch by the collar of his cloak.

''Master, be careful!'' the elderly mouse cried in concern. ''Keep cool!''

''About ha-ha-half of it, s-s-sir,'' Butch answered.

The Viper let go of Butch's collar and let out a scream of rage, making everyone apart from the elderly figure cower in fear.

The criminal mastermind began to pace up and down. ''Butch, I hope for your sake your incompetence doesn't mess up my plan. Now that you've had some alcohol, you will have to cover your mouth, or keep your mouth shut, when you confront Basil, and stand well away from him. You've just drunk that and the party is only hours away and if he was to smell it, he'll know where to go!''

Spike and Cliff looked at each other in concern. For the many years they had been in the Viper's employment, never once had they seen or heard their boss scream like a demented maniac before. The Viper was always so calm and collected, even when the plan was foiled. The last time they had seen such rage from the Viper was nine years ago. Since the fight against Basil and Olivia, the two people their boss hated more than anything, was now in motion, it must've triggered their master to act just like Ratigan whenever he was met with a foil or mistake, they concluded.

''I-I-I'm sorry, Mr Viper,'' said Butch, trembling. ''I promise from now on, no more drinking.''

''It's a bit late for that, Mr Mitchell,'' the elderly figure said crossly, folding his arms, and Butch could see his very wrinkly hands. ''You have already displeased my master.''

Butch swallowed. ''So … I'm dead?''

The Viper laughed. ''Of course not, my dear Butch,'' he said in a friendly voice, lifting his face with the tip of a gloved finger. ''After all, you are new to my 'family' so you are still learning the ways of working for the Viper, so I will allow one little slip-up. After all, I'm a merciful rodent.''

Butch smiled uneasily. The Viper was never 'merciful' but since Butch was spared, he wasn't going to protest. ''Thank you.''

The Viper grinned under his hood. ''I'm glad we're on the same page,'' he said, letting go of Butch's chin. ''You also know what to do, yes?''

''Yes, sir.''

The Viper paced up and down again. ''Spike, Cliff, can I count on one of you to be on standby just in case Butch is in danger of Basil getting close to him?''

Spike and Cliff nodded firmly.

''Master,'' said the elderly figure in concern, ''are you sure it will be alright to affiliate with Basil as … your other self? What if he recognises you and begins to suspect you?''

''My civilian self will be just fine. He only met me once many years ago and I wouldn't even be lying to him. Besides, that moronic detective has been living under my red herring all these years, and from what Fidget told me, he has been tearing his hair out in frustration due to his lack of clues, indicating he still does. Even if he does begin to suspect me, I will find a way to throw him off the scent.''

''I have very faith you will, master. I was merely concerned for you.''

''I appreciate it, old friend. Oh, by the way,'' the Viper added, ''I don't want either Basil or Olivia harmed, just to be clear. Thanks to Fidget and my inside man –'' Fidget bowed proudly – ''I know they are finally together, so I am personally looking forward to seeing them wriggle like worms on a hook.''

The Viper laughed manically and rubbed their hands together, wincing slightly at the movement of the left arm, and pulled out a gold pocket watch from the cloak's pocket. ''Tonight, all of Mousedom shall know the Viper reigns supreme, and Basil, old friend, I can't wait to meet you again …''


It was now five o'clock, the time the party began. At Baker Street, Basil, Dawson, Olivia and Hiram had just finished putting on their disguises. Basil had a light-tan mask on over his actual face and was wearing a smart black tuxedo suit with a bowtie. Hiram had a mask with brown fur with a white middle on over his actual face, and was also wearing a tuxedo suit that was inflated to give him a more chubby appearance (which the toymaker found hilarious). On his head was a smart black top hat. Dawson was wearing a grey wig and his moustache had been sprayed with talcum powder to match. He was also dressed in a fine suit to make him look respectable, but the belt keeping his trousers up was rather tight. ''I really need to exercise,'' he had grumbled.

And lastly, Olivia wore a mask with brown fur with a white middle, and was wearing a fine bluish-purple dress, make-up and a long blonde wig. Olivia had burst out laughing when she saw Basil had had dresses in his wardrobe of disguises, but as he had pointed out to her, ''I have to have every occasion covered, Livy'', and Olivia shook her head in amusement.

The four departed Basil's flat and caught a trolley that was heading for Buckingham Palace. As they left Baker Street, however, they had failed to notice the large shadowy figure watching them with a large grin on his face.

Arriving at the palace entrance, they were greeted by two royal guards who had a list in their hands. ''Halt!'' one ordered. ''Who are you?''

Making sure no-one was looking, Basil pulled off his mask. ''Basil of Baker Street, my good fellow, and I am here with my trusty associate, Doctor Dawson, my special lady Olivia Flaversham and her father Hiram.''

''Ah, Mr Basil, yes you four are on the list,'' said one of the guards as Basil readjusted his mask. ''But why – ?''

''We're in disguise in case the Viper shows up,'' Olivia explained.

Immediately, the guards were alarmed. ''The Viper? He's back?''

''I'm afraid so,'' Hiram said regretfully. ''He sent one of his goons to frighten me and my daughter the other week.''

''So that's what happened,'' said one of the guards, and turned to his colleague. ''King Edward needs to know about this,'' he said urgently, and the other guard went inside. ''Mr Basil, you saved His Majesty's mother nine years ago, and if the Viper is here Buckingham Palace will need you once again. Enter. The party is being held in the audience chamber.''

He stepped aside and the four entered the building, making their way to the audience chamber. There was quite a lot of rodents, all dressed smartly, dancing or drinking wine. The group walk into the room, all a bit uneasy as it brought back memories of that night, when Ratigan had almost been declared king of Mousedom. Olivia looked at the ropes, shuddering as she remembered Ratigan using it to escape and holding her hostage after they had thwarted his scheme.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Basil smiling. ''It's alright, Livy,'' he whispered. ''I won't let you be kidnapped again.''

Olivia was stunned, but was convinced Basil could read her mind. Since they were wearing disguises she gave her detective a quick kiss on the lips, and he smiled in response.

The four friends had made their way into the middle of the room, when Basil suddenly stopped and held out his arm, as though some thug had cornered them.

''What is it, William?'' Olivia asked.

''He's here,'' Basil whispered, looking around the room carefully. ''I sense the Viper's presence.''

''But he could be anyone in this room,'' Hiram pointed out. ''There's loads of people.''

''We should be able to narrow it down,'' Basil replied with a grin. ''Look carefully for any male mice lacking a tail, a height just inches shorter than myself and having a bother with his left arm. Not many mice have all three of those traits.''

''His left arm?'' Olivia repeated curiously, not having heard this before.

''Yes. On the night the feud ignited between us, after I foiled his plan to harm the orphanage, I accidentally burnt his left arm. I am the only person who has ever managed to do the Viper physical harm.''

''So that's why the Viper has much hatred for you.''

''There you are.''

The four looked you to see King Edward making his way toward them with the guard from earlier. ''Your Majesty,'' said Basil, as he and his comrades bowed.

''Send word to the rest of the royal guards to be on alert,'' Edward ordered to the guard, who marched off.

''Mr Basil,'' said King Edward. ''I'm glad you're here. You too, doctor, Mr Flaversham, Miss Flaversham. I love your disguises. So the Viper really has returned?''

''Yes, sir,'' Basil said.

Edward looked worried. ''The Viper is capable of anything, just like that despicable Ratigan. Maybe I should cancel the party right now, send everyone home for their own safety.''

''That's exactly what the Viper will expect you to do,'' Basil protested. ''If he does show up, get everyone out. I'm his number one enemy, so the Viper and his henchmen will most likely come after me, and I will make sure he does. I will not let him hurt anyone in this room.''

''We are going to kept an eye for him all evening, sir,'' Olivia assured him, ''and with four brains between us we've got a good chance of finding him, or at least a suspect.''

''Very well,'' Edward said. ''I'll leave you to your investigation. Good luck.''

The king walked off to talk to some guests.

''Well,'' said Dawson, ''we had better get started.''

''Olivia?'' said a voice, and the group saw Helen. She was wearing a yellow-beige dress.

''Helen?'' Olivia whispered. ''How did you know it was me?''

''I'd recognise your walk anywhere. Don't forget, we're best friend so I know you.'' She looked and laughed at Hiram's inflated suit. ''Great disguise, Hiram,'' she said, and the toymaker grinned.

''What are you doing here, Miss Baker?'' Basil asked, surprised. ''I thought you didn't like parties?''

''Father had a headache so he begged me to go in his place. I just couldn't say no.''

''Don't worry, Miss Helen,'' assured Dawson, putting a hand on her shoulder. ''We'll help you bear it.''

''Thank you, doctor. By the way, why are you in disguise?''

They explained to Helen about the Viper. ''So he's here, is he?'' she said, frowning as she looked around the room. ''We need to start looking for suspects.''

Basil nodded, then saw Edward appear again. ''Mr Basil, I know you in the middle of an important investigation, but could I borrow you for a moment? One of my special guests is really insistent on meeting you. She's already figured out who you were.''

Basil was stunned a random woman had seen through his disguise. ''Very well. I will meet her.''

Olivia, Hiram and Helen resumed looking around the room for suspects. Olivia looked carefully to see if she could see a tailless mouse when she suddenly heard a voice say, ''Curses that Basil of Baker Street!'' and looked in the direction from which she heard someone bad-mouth Basil and stared.


Basil and Dawson, meanwhile, followed Edward to his guest, Dawson walking awkwardly in his tight trousers. ''Mr Basil, Doctor Dawson, meet Regina Radcliffe.''

Basil and Dawson saw a very pretty rat woman holding a wine glass in her right hand. She was carrying herself in sophisticated manner and wearing a lot of make-up, so heavy her fur was hardly visible. She had short curly black hair, eyes so clear they looked like a diamond silver, and was wearing a thin elegant purple dress and black gloves. On the gloved left-hand was a gold band on the ring finger, and on the right hand's ring finger was a ring with a beautiful ruby red stone.

''Regina Radcliffe?'' Basil repeated. ''You're the famous children's clothes designer in Oxford.''

''The one and only. I'm flattered you've heard me, Mr Basil,'' she said in a posh, upper-class voice. ''It's nice to finally make your acquaintance. Great disguise. Don't worry, I won't give you away. If there's one thing I'm good at, it's keeping secrets.''

Basil stared at Regina. He didn't know why, but she looked somewhat familiar. He then looked at her clear eyes and it hit him. ''Indeed, my dear,'' Basil said with a small smirk, bowing. ''It certainly is a pleasure to make the acquaintance of a relative of Ronald Mortimer.''

''Ah, so you figured it out?'' Regina asked shrewdly, sharing a smile with Edward. They had clearly wanted to test Basil, and he has passed.

''Really? Regina is a member of the Mortimer family?'' Dawson asked. ''That rich family the Viper murdered?''

''Indeed, doctor. How did I know? It's quite simple really: Regina, you are a rat with such clear diamond eyes, which was the distinct trait of the Mortimer family. No other family, mice or rats, has such eyes.''

''Correct,'' said Regina, taking another sip from her wine glass. ''Ronald and my father, Cedric Mortimer, were brothers.''

''Yes,'' Basil agreed, nodding, ''there was mention many years ago of Ronald having an estranged brother called Cedric, but Ronald never spoke much about his family life. He was a very private rat.''

''They had some sort of big falling out many years ago,'' Regina sighed sadly. ''I was only a baby when it happened so I don't know what it was, Father never spoke about it. After the row, he moved us to Cornwall and refused all contact with Uncle Ronald. He never mentioned him again, and he even pretended he didn't have a brother. Because of this, I never met my cousin Ruby. Despite the estrangement, however, Father did still love Uncle Ronald, because when we heard the Viper had slaughtered them, he expressed regret over not making amends sooner.''

''I'm so sorry, madam,'' Dawson said in sympathy.

Regina nodded in appreciation.

Edwards patted her shoulder. ''You know, Mr Basil, I was surprised when Regina told me who she was a few years ago. I had asked her to make special clothes for my grandchildren, and I invited her over as thanks. It was a joy to discover a living relative of the great Ronald Mortimer.''

''You're too kind, Your Majesty,'' Regina said, before looking worried. ''My nephew! Where is he?'' she said in a blind panic, looking around. ''He's been gone too long! Your Majesty, we have to –''

Edward put a hand on her shoulder. ''Calm down, Regina, I'm sure that –''

''Aunt Regina!''

Edward smiled. ''See, there he is now.''

Regina looked relieved. ''Thank goodness.''

Basil and Dawson turned and were both shocked when they saw who was making their way towards them, dragging Olivia with him, much to Basil's chagrin.

''Charlie Bennett?''

To be continued …


Whoa! My longest chapter yet!

What a surprise! We have a new member of the Mortimer family and she is Charlie's adopted aunt. You will learn more about their back-story in the next chapter.

I discussed sometime ago with my fellow writer duchessofbooks about the possibility of Basil suffering from PTSD and even survivors' guilt, which would fit with his behaviour in the film, explaining why he has meltdowns when met with the slightest failure. But as Olivia says, she will help him with it no matter what.

The Viper appears to be lurking about somewhere, but who, and where, is he?

Did you catch The Little Mermaid reference?

And who was the shadowy figure who was watching Basil and friends leave Baker Street?

Time to answer some reviews:

Guest: Interesting theory about Charlie. You'll have to keep on reading to see if you're right.

duchessofbooks: So glad you liked Hiram's reaction. Indeed, how will Dawson react when he finally acknowledges his suspicions about Pauline's ''sickness''?

Next time, we will meet some more new characters and a possible suspect. Also, we will learn a bit about Ratigan's past.

See you soon!