The next morning, it was all over the papers' front-page news: a large picture of Ruby with the headline ''VIPER UNMASKED'', detailing Ruby's early life all the way up to her capture as her infamous alter-ego.

''I think everyone will be relieved to finally know the truth about the Viper,'' said Dawson, looking at the paper Helen was holding up. ''Eh, Basil?''

''All in a day's work, doctor,'' the detective said happily. After getting back to Baker Street, Dawson had tended to his injuries, just as he had done nine years ago. His arms weren't broken so they were simply bandaged up. His body was the same, but with one or two nasty scars left due to the deepness Ruby's claws had dug. It was his shoulder that was the real injury; though not dislocated, Cliff hurting it had caused some real pain so was going to take time for it to fully heal. Basil had screamed the house down when his good friend had put some stingy stuff on it, but appreciated it nonetheless.

''Steady on, William!'' Olivia cried in worry when Basil took down all of the newspaper clippings of the Viper's past crimes from the fireplace. ''Dawson said to take it easy with that shoulder!''

''I'm being careful, didn't worry, darling. Honestly, I'm supposed to be the one protecting and worrying about you.''

''It can be the other way around as well, can't it?'' Olivia said, grinning, and Helen agreed.

''You can't do it all, William,'' Hiram said wisely. ''You are brave and strong, but so is Olivia, and it's a couple's job to worry about each other. Annabel fussed over me as just as much as I did for her.''

''As do my parents,'' Helen added.

Bail said that he didn't normally like his wound being fussed over, but he would make allowances for his loved ones. Holding Ratigan's gold-yellow bell in one hand (Newton had given it back to him), the detective picked up the Viper doll from the mantle with the other hand and, with a big smile, threw both of them in the fire, just as he had done with his uncle's portrait all those years ago.

When Basil watched as the bell and doll both burnt to a crisp, it was though a huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

''William, didn't you want to keep them as a memento of your triumph?'' Olivia asked.

Basil smiled and pulled her close. ''I don't need a bell or doll. You are the only memento I need, darling, from both cases.''

Olivia looked at him with loving eyes. ''Oh, William …''

Helen made sighs at the pair.

''William, you saved me yet again,'' Hiram said, and looked down. ''I'm afraid I don't have anything to give to you this time.''

''Don't worry about it, Hiram,'' Basil assured him. ''Your approval is all I could ask for.''

Hiram nodded, accepting that.

''Awwwe,'' Fidget said. ''I have never seen a pair of grown-ups more in love.''

''How are you, Fidget?'' Olivia asked.

''Fine,'' Fidget replied, gesturing to his bandaged stomach with his wing, ''even though I can't bend, but Doctor Dawson says it will heal up in no time so no damage. I just hope Pauline is alright.''

''I'm fine,'' Pauline said, rubbing her belly. ''The smoke that beastly Viper forced me to inhale didn't cause any damage, miraculously. David checked my abdomen and the baby still has a strong heartbeat.''

''Thank goodness, we were worried,'' Helen said, as Olivia hugged the pregnant mouse. Helen had told everyone that after escaping Big Ben they had gone to Scotland Yard and told Inspector Newton of the situation, and Pauline was then escorted to the hospital by some of the policemice while Newton accompanied Helen back to Big Ben.

''I must admit, I was worried too,'' Dawson added, ''but everything's in order and …'' He hesitated.

Basil saw his good friend's concern look. ''What's the matter, old boy?''

''Basil, may I have a word with you, in private?''

''Certainly.''

The two went into the kitchen. ''What is it, doctor?'' Basil asked, closing the door behind him and folding his arms.

Dawson hesitated again. ''Well, these last nine years of being your assistant have been a privilege, Basil. They were dangerous at times, but the adventures we had were some of the highlights of my life and I don't regret any of it. Change isn't easy, as we both know, particularly when you've had something in your life for so long.'' He looked at the kitchen door. ''I was planning on telling you after the baby was born, but in light of mine and Pauline's kidnapping at the Viper's hands I think it's the wisest decision to move forward with it now.''

''Move forward with what?'' Basil asked, smiling sadly. He knew perfectly well what Dawson was going to say, and although he had been anticipating it for quite some time now, it still felt like a pang in his stomach.

''As you know, after I married Pauline I semi-retired from the mystery-solving business, but now that I have a family of my own to think about, I am going to retire altogether and go back to being an ordinary doctor full-time.''

Basil gave his good friend a squeezing hug. ''I foresaw this would happen eventually. I understand, old chap, but we have been a team for years so it will take me time to get used to you not being around anymore. As you said, change isn't easy.''

''No, it isn't, but you will have Olivia instead, and with your equal intelligence combined, you will have no problem in apprehending criminals.''

''You're right, and she is a most satisfactory replacement.'' He smiled at door lovingly where his love was outside. ''More than satisfactory, in fact.''

Basil and Dawson exited the kitchen and told Olivia, Hiram, Pauline and Fidget.

''I'm going to miss you not helping out on a case,'' Olivia said, hugging the good doctor. ''This can't be easy for William, his trusty assistant friend retiring after all these years, but it is for the best. After all, you have to consider Pauline and the baby's safety, Dawson.''

''But this doesn't mean you won't see Dawson and Pauline ever again, right?'' Fidget asked, concerned.

''Of course not, Fidget,'' Dawson said, smiling. ''Don't worry. Just because I am retiring doesn't mean none of us are friends anymore. That will never change.''

''David and I will still visit every now and then,'' Pauline agreed, ''and vice versa.''

''That's good to know,'' Hiram said.

''Speaking of which,'' Basil said abruptly, and knelt down in front of Fidget with a serious look. ''Fidget, for years you were in the employment of both my uncle and aunt, and helped them carry out their atrocities.'' The bat hunched up small, and Basil smiled. ''However, you did redeem yourself and because of you we were able to end the Viper's reign once and for all. It will, of course, take time before you fully have our trust, but perhaps we can eventually be friends?''

Fidget smiled as though he had never heard anything so wonderful and, without warning, pounced on Basil, hugging him round the middle. ''I would like that very much. I meant what I said at the palace, you would make a better employer than those two rats ever were! The Ratigans abuse me and treated me like dirt!''

''Well, you don't have to worry about that anymore,'' said Mrs Judson, surprisingly, who had just arrived after gathering some upstairs laundry that needed washing. ''Mr Basil and Miss Olivia would never treat anyone like that, Fidget, so you are in safe hands.''

After returning to Baker Street, Basil and friends told Mrs Judson everything that happened, and upon hearing Fidget had risked his life to save her master, the housekeeper had become more warmer and receptive towards the bat, but she was still somewhat distrustful.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. ''I'll get it,'' Basil volunteered, walking over to the door. He opened it and found himself face-to-face with King Edward and some guards. ''Your Majesty!'' Basil exclaimed.

''Good morning, Basil. May I come in?''

''Of course.''

Basil widened the door and the king and guards stepped into parlour. Edward asked everyone if they were okay after last night with the Viper and was happy to hear they were. ''Mr Basil, I am here to announce this evening I will be holding a ceremony of celebration for the Viper's defeat, and I insist all of you attend, for I want to personally thank all of you for saving me, just as you saved my mother.''

''Of course, Your Majesty,'' said Basil, and everyone agreed. ''We will be there.''

''I'm still not big on parties,'' said Helen, ''but I will make an exception.''

''Good to hear. ''As for you, Fidget,'' the king added, turning to the bat Fidget, ''a lot of my staff think I'm mad, and it's understandable, but you are invited as well. After all, you played an important part in solving this case so I am prepared to give you a chance. But it's up to you.''

Fidget giggled nervously. ''I'm honoured, Your Majesty, but I'm afraid I'll have to decline. I don't think Mousedom would welcome me with open arms just yet, and if I went, I might overshadow Basil and the other's special moment.''

''I see your point. Well, I believe you have changed, Fidget, and perhaps we can have your special moment once everyone else has accepted that? By the way, you don't have to dress formally if you don't want, just as you didn't when my mother honoured you. Take care, all of you, and see you later,'' said Edward, and he and the guards left.

''Well, this brings back memories, doesn't it?'' said Dawson. ''It's just like how the Queen honoured us after we defeated Ratigan.''

''Indeed, old, chap,'' Basil agreed. ''I look forward to tonight.''

''William,'' Olivia said suddenly, ''I hate to change the subject, but now that the case is over can we visit Toby?''

''Of course, Livy,'' said Basil, placing his arm around her. ''Hiram and Helen, you may come too if you wish.''

''I've always wanted to meet him,'' Helen said. ''It's sad he's become so ill.''

Hiram agreed.

''I'll come, too,'' said Dawson. ''I might be able to deduce how long he has left so Basil can prepare himself.''

Basil put his hand on the good doctor's shoulder in gratitude.

''I think it's best I stayed here,'' Fidget piped up. ''I don't think he'd be happy to see me, even though I've changed.''

''I agree with Fidget,'' Basil said, nodding. ''He may be frail, but Toby's splendid sense of smell is just as sharp as ever. If Fidget went, Toby would detect the smell of someone who has been around villains within seconds.''

Mrs Judson said she would stay with Fidget, partly to keep an eye on him. ''I'll stay, too,'' Pauline added, sitting in the blue couch with some wool and knitting needles. ''I need to make some more baby clothes.''

''But – but, Pauline!'' Dawson spluttered. ''After what happened with the Viper –!''

''Your protective levels have increased, and I love you for it, David,'' Pauline giggled, ''but everything is fine now. We have nothing to be afraid of.''

''Yes, but …'' Dawson said uncertainly, glancing at Fidget. Though Fidget had proven he had changed, Dawson was still a little wary of him, if only because of his wife and child's safety.

''And I will keep an eye on her,'' Mrs Judson promised Dawson.

''You go and see your doggy friend,'' said Fidget. ''Hope he's holding up well.''

''Don't worry, she'll be fine,'' Basil whispered to Dawson, as their group left for upstairs. ''I understand why your sceptical, I am too somewhat, but I do believe Fidget is trying. And besides, Mrs Judson wouldn't let anything happen to Pauline.''

Dawson nodded in agreement, glancing back at where he had left his wife. If Basil was confident Fidget was alright then Dawson trusted his words. After all, Basil was always a good judge of character, one of the many things Dawson had learned during those nine years of being his assistant.

The group made their way upstirs to where Sherlock Holmes lived. Basil pressed the door open slightly and looked around to see if Holmes or Watson were around. To his relief, they weren't, and the group walked on the human-sized carpet as Basil led them to Toby. Olivia looked around the room as though she had gone back in time. Not much had changed in Holmes's dwelling since she was last here, with all of his papers and objects including is pipe, still lying around in their usual unorthodox fashion. Olivia smiled at his, Holmes really was just as eccentric as Basil. As they walked past the table Olivia saw a framed picture of a woman and curiosity aroused. Had that picture been there last time? She couldn't remember. And just who was she?

The young woman then thought about Toby. The last time she had seen him he was a cute, energetic dog who acted like an excited puppy who wanted to play. He had liked her immediately, happily taking a cheese crumpet from her, accepting a belly rub and even obeyed her more than Basil at the toy store. Now he was old and poorly and didn't have long to live. If Toby really was as frail as Basil said he was, Olivia dreaded to think how much pain he was in, the poor thing. And would he remember her?

''Here he is,'' Basil said to his friends, when they finally reached their destination. The second she saw him, Olivia felt as though she would burst into tears. That cute Basset Hound that was so full of life was now lying on the carpet next to the fire, near his basket, white as chalk, looking like a skeleton. He whimpered as he slept. Basil and Hiram comforted Olivia, while Dawson did the same for Helen, who also looked upset.

''Toby,'' Basil said gently, walking up the dog. ''Toby?''

Toby yawned and opened his eyes. When he saw Basil, he smiled weakly and licked him with his tongue. Basil explained that Toby was so weak he hardly ever left his basket apart from to lie by the fire, and now licked people with his tongue if he liked them. ''Toby,'' Basil said, patting the dog's nose, ''I have some people I want you meet, two of whom you've met before.''

The detective took Olivia's hand and brought her to the ill dog. ''Hello, Toby,'' the young woman said, also patting his nose. ''Do you remember me? I'm Olivia Flaversham. I was a little girl when we first met nine years ago and I gave you a crumpet in this very house.''

Everyone waited with anxious breath as Toby sniffed her for a moment carefully, as though he was checking something, before licking her happily. ''Silly doggy!'' Olivia chortled. ''You remember me?''

Toby nodded.

Olivia laughed and hugged the dog's nose. Basil smiled, so glad that Toby remembered her. Thank goodness for the dog's splendid sense of smell. Hiram approached Toby and the dog also remembered him, even though they had only met briefly on the night Mousetoria thanked Basil. ''Good boy,'' said the toymaker.

Olivia introduced Toby to Helen, who was nervous that Toby wouldn't like her, but her mind became at ease when Toby licked her after only one sniff. ''Olivia is right, you are a silly doggy,'' she said affectionately. ''I hope to see you again before your time runs out.''

Toby nodded, indicating that the feeling was mutual, and Helen kissed his nose. She then looked his fur and thought of something she wanted to ask Basil. When Dawson cautiously got near with his medial bag, however, the dog immediately growled at him despite being weak. ''Now Toby,'' said Basil, holding up his hands, ''I know you don't like Dawson, but he needs to check your health. After all, he is a doctor.''

Toby huffed but relented, allowing Dawson to check him with stethoscope, but glared at him the whole time, as though the good doctor was some irksome fly. ''Well, I think that's everything,'' Dawson said after he was done, and looked at Basil gravely. ''Basil, I'm afraid Toby doesn't have long. He might live to see Christmas, but after that …'' The doctor trailed off, unable to say it.

Oliva saw her boyfriend look so sad and squeezed his hand.

With still no sign Holmes or Watson, Olivia asked if they could stay for a while as she didn't want to leave Toby on his own. Basil agreed and told Dawson he was free to go back to Pauline if he didn't want to be away from her for too long. Dawson obliged, but as he started to leave, he heard Toby growl behind him and blow at him, sending the doctor flying and tumbling to the ground. Shaking his head, Basil helped his friend up. ''Sorry, old fellow. Some things never change.''

''Indeed,'' Dawson agreed, chucking nervously, before scurrying away.

''You were, right, Olivia,'' said Helen. ''Toby really does not like Dawson at all. But why?''

''It's one mystery I have never managed to solve,'' Basil said, shaking his head. ''I mean, Dawson is a doctor for Holmes's sake, a man who helps and saves others! It's very perplexing.''

''Dawson doesn't have one single wicked bone in his body,'' Hiram agreed.

''Do you suppose it's all because of that catgut thread he had in his cuff's lambert stitch?'' Olivia asked.

Basil chuckled. ''When Toby first growled at him, that did cross my mind for a moment, but my violin strings are also made from catgut and as you know I play it on a daily basis, so I dismissed that.''

''But why would a stitch –?'' Helen's eyes widened as she answered her own question, and laughed. ''Oh, I get it! CATgut. But if that's not it, then what could it be?''

Basil and Olivia shrugged. After that, they told Toby stories about Olivia's college years, and the dog seemed delighted when informed that Basil and Olivia were now a couple and he licked the pair, leaving traces of slobs but they didn't mind. The four mice then told Toby all about their recent capture of the elusive Viper. Toby growled when hearing the Viper was Ratigan's wife.

''Speaking of which,'' Helen said thoughtfully, ''Ruby, as 'Regina', always wore heavy make-up all over her face until the final showdown. Why was that?''

''That was to obscure her fur and face so I wouldn't recognise her,'' Basil replied. ''She knew wearing a mask would be futile as I would have seen through it immediately. And of course, due to my expertise in disguises, she also knew I would realise her black hair was a wig, so she wore it in a way I wouldn't be able to tell.''

''She really knew how your intelligence works,'' Hiram said, shaking his head, ''and she really did think of everything.''

Basil agreed. Suddenly, they heard the voices of Holmes and Watson returning from a case, so they knew they had to leave for now. ''Take care, old boy,'' Basil said, as he and Hiram patted his nose.

''We'll come back soon, Toby,'' Olivia added, as she and Helen stroked his ear.

''So furry!'' Helen giggled. ''Marianne would love him.''

Toby smiled as he watched his little friends left to back to the rodent quarters.


After Basil's group had left for upstairs, Mrs Judson was in the laundry room sorting out the washing, humming to herself, while Pauline was knitting baby clothes. She looked down at her belly and rubbed it, as though it was a delicate vase. She couldn't wait until he or she started kicking, that would be the ultimate proof there was life growing inside her. Her sisters had experienced it and now it was finally her turn. She was snapped out of it when she heard a knock at the door.

Mrs Judson entered the parlour, having heard the knock. ''Maybe it's a client or Mr Basil,'' she said, walking over to the door. She looked down to see a female bat with white fur, a cute pink button nose and bright purple eyes. ''Hello. Is this the residence of Basil of Baker Street?'' she asked politely.

''It is indeed. He's not here at the moment, but you're welcome to come and wait, my dear,'' Mrs Judson said with her welcoming smile.

''Oh no, I'm not a client. Is Fidget Russell here? I haven't seen him in 13 years and I read this morning's paper.''

''Fidget?'' Mrs Judson repeated. ''Yes, he's here. Come on in.''

The housekeeper opened the door wider and the bat stepped into the parlour. Pauline stared curiously at the newcomer and said hello. ''I'll fetch him for you, my dear,'' Mrs Judson said to the female bat, and walked upstairs to the bathroom, where Fidget currently was. ''Fidget,'' she said, knocking on the door, ''when you are finished, please come down stairs. You have a visitor.''

''A visitor for me?'' Fidget repeated in surprise. ''Um, okay.''

Mrs Judson giggled slightly when she heard Fidget bumbling about in the bathroom. His clumsiness was adorable. Finally, he opened the bathroom door. ''Sorry,'' he said, ''I haven't used a proper bathroom in years.''

The bat made his way downstairs, Mrs Judson behind him. Who could possibly want to see him? It was probably Inspector Newton come to arrest him for assisting the two Napoleon of Crimes, even though he had turned against the Viper. When the bat reached the bottom of the stairs and saw the female bat, it was as though they were the only two people in the room, as though Fidget was having flashbacks. He hadn't seen her in 13 years, but right away Fidget knew who she was. ''Lavender?'' he said softly, walking over to her. ''Is it really you?''

The girl bat nodded. ''Long time no see, Fidget.''

''Indeed.''

''You know each other?'' Pauline asked.

''We went to night school together,'' Lavender explained.

''Most of the other kids picked on me for my small size,'' said Fidget, ''but Lavender was always kind to me. She was my only friend.''

''Such a sweet girl,'' Mrs Judson cooed.

''I see,'' Pauline said with a smirk. ''So you weren't Fidget's girlfriend?''

Fidget and Lavender both blushed, looking as red as cherries. ''Yes! I mean no!'' Fidget gabbled. ''I mean, I liked her and – not like that, Lavender – I mean yes like that – No, what I meant was …'' Fidget stopped and placed a wing over his face. ''I don't even know what I'm saying anymore.''

Lavender giggled.

''How did you know where I was?'' Fidget asked, after an awkward pause.

''I read the morning paper. It said you were alive so I wanted to see if it was really true. I figured you would be here. You were so brave stand up to the Viper like that, Fidget.''

Fidget giggled. ''I just told the Viper how rotten she and Ratigan were. But Lavender, why did you seek me out at all? The night Mamma and Pappa turfed me out, I went to yours for help and your mother said I disgusted you. I thought you had washed your wings off me.''

Lavender sighed. ''Mother had heard what happened with the twins so she didn't want you anywhere near me, she was the one disgusted with you, so she lied to you. After she closed the door, I asked her who it was and she told me it was someone selling something. Believe me, Fidget, if I had been the one to answer the door, I would have helped you no matter what. The next morning, your parents arrived and Mother was overcome with guilt and confessed what she did. I was angry at her, but I understood she was just trying to protect me.''

Fidget tilted his head. ''What were Mamma and Papa doing at yours?''

''They were –''

She was interrupted by another knock at the door. ''Another visitor!'' said Mrs Judson, chuckling. ''Baker Street sure is popular today!''

''I'll get it,'' Fidget volunteered, and hobbled over to the door. When he opened it, the bat had frozen on the spot. Towering above him were two bats with grey fur: the male had muscular wings and bluish-grey eyes and the female had warm chocolate-brown eyes that were the same as his. ''Uh –'' Fidget tried to speak but couldn't get the words out. They seemed to be lodged in his throat. ''Uh –''

''Fidget!'' Milly and Robert Russell cried, and pounced on their son, staggering inside the parlour. Milly plastered kisses all over her son's face and Robert almost crushed him with his muscular wings.

Fidget's throat finally dislodged itself and he burst into tears. ''I'm so sorry!'' he howled, unable to say anything else. ''Mamma! Papa!''

''Oh, Fidget …'' said Milly, holding her son's cheeks in her wings.

''I know I was a problem child. I stole and put the twins in danger. I read about Ratigan and the Viper's crimes and I thought stealing was nothing compared to their atrocities. I didn't understand at the time why you were so angry but I do now and –''

''Stop that, Fidget,'' Robert ordered. ''We should be sorry. We shouldn't have been so hard on you.''

The two bats looked ahead and saw Lavender waving at them.

''So you beat us to it, eh?'' Robert said, smiling at the bat girl, before looking back at his son more seriously. ''As soon as we threw you out, we immediately regretted it.''

''You father flew all night in the rain trying to find you, honey. It's a miracle he didn't get pneumonia.''

''But I couldn't find you anywhere, son.''

''You … tried to find me?'' Fidget repeated slowly, shocked, his eyes widening. ''But – but you – you were so angry with me and –''

Lavender took his wing-hands into hers. ''Sometimes when people are angry, they just lash out and do things in the heat of the moment.''

Robert and Milly nodded in agreement.

''I was seeking shelter in an old human shoe, Papa.''

Robert's eyes widened. ''I saw lots of human shoes as I flew over London! One of them was yours, I just know it!'' He clenched his wings and closed his eyes. ''If only I had checked them …''

Milly placed her wing on her husband's shoulder.

Fidget gripped Lavender's wing-hands, trying to process what he had just been told. It was as though something warm was glowing inside him. His parents went looking for him! They tried to bring him home! His father had risked getting sick just for him! They had never stopped loving him! But that glow disappeared as Fidget suspected all of that had faded away when his parents read in the paper that he had become Ratigan's right-hand bat.

''We went to Lavender's house the next morning and her mother told us what had happened,'' Milly continued. ''We were, of course angry, with her, but as parents we understood why she did it, and she felt so awful about it. She pointed to the direction she saw you leave in so we searched but still couldn't find you. We feared something had happened to you. Two weeks later, we read the paper of Ratigan's latest scheme and it said he was assisted by his new right-hand man, a bat named Fidget Russell. I cried and cried.''

Fidget hunched up small. ''You were probably ashamed, and I don't blame you.''

''We were ashamed,'' Robert admitted, ''but mostly with ourselves. We realised it was our fault. If we had seen how much bullying you had endured, how left out you must've felt for all those years, if we hadn't been so tough on you, it never would have driven you to find work in Ratigan's employment. We feared for your safety, but that monster was so dangerous we didn't dare find his lair for risk of endangering you further, or even your siblings.''

''But we always read the paper and were relieved you were still alive,'' said Milly. ''Until the morning after Basil and his friends stopped Ratigan from becoming supreme ruler, the paper said you had drowned in the river. We wept for hours – so much it was as though the house had become a river – and had our own memorial service for you. Then, of course, we read this morning's paper about the Viper and we couldn't believe it when we saw you had been alive all this time, and you helped Basil defeat the Viper.''

''I realised the error of my ways, Mamma. I only helped the Viper because she was downright scary, just like her husband, who used my being homeless and you turfing me out against me so as to manipulate me into becoming his servant. Husband and wife were vicious, I tell you!''

''I don't doubt that,'' Milly said, hugging her son. ''Well, you're safe now, and it sounds though you've really grown up.''

''I'm learning, Mamma.'' Abruptly, he lifted his to and showed his parents his bandaged stomach.

''So it's true what we read,'' Milly said, in a slightly trembling voice, and hugged her son. ''You got hurt protecting Basil.''

''I'm so proud of you, son,'' said Robert, patting his head as if he was a little boy.

''So does this mean you forgive for everything I've done?'' Fidget asked hopefully. ''You'll let me be your son again?''

''That's correct, Fidget,'' Robert said, smiling. ''And in return, will you forgive us, and let us be your parents again?''

Fidget nodded, and the three bats hugged fiercely. Lavender, Pauline and Mrs Judson smiled at the beautiful sight. Robert and Milly looked up and saw the two female mice. ''Don't mind us,'' said Pauline, holding up her hands.

''Oh, reunions make me so happy,'' said Mrs Judson, getting a little teary-eyed.

''We didn't realise we had an audience,'' said Milly, a little bashfully, and Lavender giggled.

Fidget's parents said hello and formerly introduced themselves. Mrs Judson offered to make them some tea and they happily accepted.

''You're expecting?'' Milly asked, watching Pauline knit. ''Congratulations!''

Everyone heard a noise and looked to see Dawson had returned. ''Hello, dear!'' said Pauline. ''How's Toby?''

''Not very well. He may have only a few months left. Poor Basil, he's devastated but of course he hides it. At least he remembered Olivia. She wanted to stay a bit longer to keep Toby company, but Basil could see I was missing you so here I am.''

''Oh, David, you worry-wart! But was that the only reason, or was it because Toby was giving you a hard time?'' Pauline added with a smirk.

''He still doesn't like me,'' Dawson sighed. ''I just can't fathom it. He took to Helen no problem, so I really am the only one. Oh, why is it always me? I seem to be a bad luck magnet.''

''So am I, Dawson,'' Fidget piped up. ''I know the feeling.''

Dawson saw Fidget's party. ''Oh! I didn't realise we had visitors! Forgive me for my ignorance!''

Robert, Milly and Lavender introduced themselves to Dawson and they all sat around the table while Mrs Judson served them tea. ''So, how's the rest of the family?'' Fidget asked his parents.

Robert and Milly explained that his siblings were doing fine: Frederick was now one of the most popular bat doctors in the medical field (which Dawson was delighted to hear) and had 10 children. Francine was content with being a housewife and had 8 children. The twins also had families of their own, and Fluffy even named her only son after Fidget, which made him cry.

''Goodness, that's a lot of nieces and nephews!'' exclaimed Mrs Judson.

''Bats have large colonies, Mrs Judson,'' said Robert. ''And I just know they are all going to be happy to see you, son. Especially the twins. All these years and they never gave up hope.''

''Awwwe, they were always sweet,'' Fidget cooed. ''But what about Felicia and Felix?''

Robert and Milly looked down. ''I'm afraid they are no longer with us,'' Milly said quietly. ''Three years after we threw you out, Felicia's 'psychic powers' drove her mad, so mad that she …'' Milly trailed off, unable to say it, but everyone knew what she meant. She buried face in her wing-hands and Robert held her.

''As for Felix,'' the Russell patriarch said heavily, ''he contracted tuberculosis seven years ago.''

''I'm so sorry, my dears,'' said Mrs Judson compassionately.

''My mother died of tuberculosis, and my eldest sister lost her first-born child, so my family can deeply empathise with your loss,'' Pauline said in great sympathy.

Robert and Milly looked at her in gratitude. Fidget looked down at the floor before hugging his parents. Felicia and Felix had always been his two least favourite siblings and particularly mean to him – and Felicia had always been a little cuckoo – but he had never wanted anything like that to happen to them. Now he would never get to make amends with them so their deaths made him very sad. He also realised that when Felix died his parents thought they had lost three of their children, which had no doubt had a great impact on them. No wonder they had been so relived to find Fidget had actually been alive all this time; they had got one of their children back.

''We're back!''

Everyone looked up and saw Basil, Olivia, Hiram and Helen had returned. ''Oh!'' the detective exclaimed. ''Are we having a tea party?''

Fidget introduced his parents and Lavender to them.

''Milly, that's a lovely name,'' Helen remarked.

''My real name is Mildred,'' Fidget's mother admitted, frowning, ''but I hate it, so everyone calls me Milly instead.''

Fidget asked about Toby.

''Poor fellow,'' Basil said sadly. ''It won't be the same without him when he's gone, but at least I have everyone to help me cope.''

Olivia hugged him.

''You know,'' Hiram said suddenly, ''with all this talk of parenthood I can't help but feel a bit sorry for Angus despite everything. I mean, he loved Ruby like a daughter and now he's never going to see her again.''

Basil and Dawson nodded solemnly. ''I can believe that,'' Dawson agreed. ''The way he talked about her while Basil was dealing with her …''


After Basil chased after Ruby her men willingly handed themselves over to the police, no doubt knowing the jig was up. Angus, however, was the only one who looked reluctant. ''Please understand her state,'' he pleaded, like a father, when he heard some of Scotland Yard grumbling about her behaviour. ''She lost her whole future. I beg you, Newton, put me and her in the same cell, she needs me. Lady Ruby has always been like a lost, broken child. When she lost Lord Ratigan it sent her mad, but when she miscarried, she had never looked more like a crying child in pain. She begged me to never abandon her and to always stay with her, as I always have done ever since she was born.'' Angus sucked in a breath as he choked up. ''She looked so small, those diamond eyes wrapped in sobs, weaker than anyone, more fragile than anyone. I would give anything for that child, do anything for the sake of that sad, broken little girl.''


''And even though Ruby caused a lot of pain to a lot of people,'' Olivia said, ''I feel for her plight. Her loneliness must've been too much for her to bear.''

''Ever since you sprouted into a fine young lady,'' Hiram said proudly, ''you've always had this ability to emphasise with people's emotions, even cruel ones such as Ruby's …''


Something clicked in Olivia's mind, like an oil lamp being switched on, and dared take a step forward, Basil and Hiram by her side like her own bodyguards. ''That's it, isn't it, Ruby? Revenge was all you had left. But more than that, you also thought if you did it, you would no longer be alone. You've always felt lonely, and that has scared you.''

Ruby looked aghast, shaking her head, her eyes blazed like fire, though there were glimpses of tears behind them. She roared and tried to attack Olivia, but Angus, surprisingly, held her back just as Basil and Hiram shielded Olivia.

''You think you understand me, Little Miss Perfect? You have no IDEA what life was like for me! All of the other kids at school rejected and ridiculed me, just because I didn't have five fingers and a tail like rats should! My goody two-shoes father was often away on his good deeds, as was my mother.''

Everyone was stunned that Ruby had finally admitted that she was a rat, but it was clear she was too caught up in the moment to care as she let it all out. At the same time, they doubted very highly that Ronald and Diane had neglected her, but rather that idea had been created in her mind due to how rejected she had felt.

'' 'Ruby Rat-Freak' they called me! Do to have any idea how lonely and unbearable that was? I made voodoo dolls of those kids and it was a real source of comfort for me growing up. My parents were disturbed by it, but Angus understood. Whenever we went somewhere, my father would make me wear a prosthetic tail and fingers so I would look more 'normal.' Why? Because he was ashamed of me, that's why!''

''He was just trying to protect you, Ruby,'' Hiram said, ''I know he was. It's a father's to protect his children, and I'm sure Ronald was just trying to prevent you for enduring more bullying and stares from people.''

''Wrong! I wasn't the daughter he wanted! He was getting respect and attention for his good deeds – he had a perfect wife, perfect money, perfect admiration from rodents. I was the thing in his life that wasn't perfect!'' She sucked in a breath. ''I was always highly intelligent, something my worthless father did not dispute, so when I became an adolescent, I begged him to let me enrol at university. After Angus wore him down, he agreed, probably just to get rid of me. The fools at Mouse Cambridge University were reluctant to let me in at first, but my superior intelligence made them cave in.''

Ruby giggled and looked love-struck. ''I quickly became my Wicked Professor's 'special star pupil'. He would often ask me to stay after class, and in no time we clicked due to having similar backgrounds and being genius and we fell on love. For the first time, I found someone who understood me.

''When we reunited those two years into my criminal career as the Viper, and my life had never been brighter. We married, were set become King and Queen of Mousedom and I was carrying our first child. Vincent for a boy, Violet for a girl.'' She glared daggers at Basil. ''Then you ruined everything. After my Wicked Professor took Olivia hostage, I retreated to the opera house to await news from him. We received a tip-off about Fidget falling into the river, so I sent Spike and Cliff to retrieve him. Right after, we were told the dirigible had crashed into Big Ben, and when we got there what did we find? My husband – my brilliant, beautiful, intelligent husband – the father of my child, dead! We moved his body. I read the paper the next day of you being praised, which angered me. My husband's killer celebrated as hero? I would not stand for that! Then,'' her face crumpled, ''I lost my child, the one link I had left to Padraic. My husband, my baby, my happily-ever-after – you took away EVERYTHING, Basil! I really did contemplate suicide, but thanks to Angus's emotional support I found the strength to carry on and plot my revenge, the only thing I had left to live for.''

As fast as lighting, the Viper immediately became calmer, though retained her insane smile. ''How?'' She held out her hand and Angus handed her a rolled-up newspaper emerged from his robe pocket. She unfolded it and held it up of everyone to see: it was the paper Basil had on his mantelpiece of Mousetoria praising him. ''Something very interesting caught my attention,'' she added, turning over to the very next page. ''Take a look at our lovely couple.''

At the top of the page were several different pictures of Basil, Dawson, Olivia and Hiram all standing with the Queen, smiling and waving. The four said individuals all remembered these pictures being taken. Ruby pointed to one particular picture. In the picture, Basil was holding 10-year-old Olivia in his arms, she was giving him a kiss on the cheek and Basil was smiling at her, looking pleased.

Olivia blushed furiously while Basil glared at Ruby, though he, too, had red patches on his cheeks. ''You had never showed any fondness for any women or child before, Basil, so to see you happy about a young girl giving you an innocent kiss surprised me. It was clear to me that Olivia had become someone special to you. I foresaw the two of you would be in love when Olivia was older, so I simply waited until she was of age, then I waited an extra year until she had returned from Mousefield College, but I was able to obtain information on you from Saul.''

''That was why you specifically waited nine years to exact your vengeance,'' Basil said, doing his best to keep calm and collected. ''I did suspect it.''


''Thinking about it,'' Olivia said, ''Ratigan also suffered similar hardship which led to him becoming the Napoleon of Crime, though I have no doubt the loss of his birth mother, and his birth father abandoning him and Violet, also contributed.''

Everyone agreed. Seeing Basil still upset about Toby, and looking at Fidget with his parents, Olivia then asked Mrs Judson for a word upstairs.

''Well, I guess we should be going now,'' Robert said after they we finished with tea. ''Hope to see you again soon. Let's go home, Fidget.''

Fidget almost fell over. ''Really?''

''Of course,'' Milly said, laughing. ''We've all been given another chance so we want to welcome you home, sweetheart.''

Fidget felt tears threatening to bust from his eyes again and hugged his mother. ''Thank you …'' The bat wiped his eyes and turned to his new friends. ''Basil, if Inspector Newton comes looking for me, tell him I am with my parents,'' he said, and Robert and Milly told Basil their address.

''I actually went to our old home to reflect on things when I realised I didn't want to help the Viper anymore,'' Fidget added, and his parents looked proud. ''I miss it.''

Lavender took his wing-hand. ''I'll come by tomorrow, Fidget.''

Fidget looked bashful and after one last goodbye the four bats left Baker Street.

''Well, it appears today is a day of reunions,'' said Dawson.

''Indeed, doctor,'' Basil agreed, and looked upstairs. Seeing how Fidget looked at Lavender made the detective think about something. ''Do excuse me,'' he said to his friends, and went up the stairs.

Hiram stared after him, wondering.

Basil had reached his room just as Olivia and Mrs Judson exited the guest bedroom. ''Oh, Mr Basil!'' said Mrs Judson exclaimed, putting her hand over her chest as though she was having an attack. ''I hope you weren't listening in on our conversation! Some things need to be kept private!'' she added in a cross tone, placing her hands on her hips.

''Don't worry, Mrs Judson, I only just arrived,'' her master said truthfully, holding his hands up.

Olivia giggled and told Mrs Judson they should go clear the table. The two ladies went downstairs and Basil smiled curiously. Given Mrs Judson's reaction, and the fact that Olivia had wanted to talk to her alone at all, Basil suspected he was the topic of their conversation, but wasn't going to investigate; he didn't want to invade Olivia's privacy and had a feeling that whatever it was, it would reveal itself at some point. Not to mention, he had a more pressing matter to focus on.

The detective entered his room, opened the second drawer of his bedside table and pulled the velvet black box once more, flipping it open. He smiled at the beautiful turquoise stone once more. Yes, tonight for sure, after Edward's party …

''William?''

Basil jumped and held the box behind his back. ''Oh, Hiram!'' he said, when he saw the toymaker. ''Uh, what brings you here?''

Hiram smiled. ''You can't kid me, William. I know what you're hiding. I reacted exactly the same way when Annabel's mother caught me with mine. May I see it?''

Basil was amazed by Hiram's perceptiveness, but it shouldn't really be a surprise given he had a smart and amazing daughter. He held out the velvet box and Hiram stared. ''Oh, my!'' he said, as if he had never seen a ring before. ''It's so beautiful! Turquoise! A perfect mixture of yours and Olivia's eyes!''

''Yes, I think so, too. It belonged to my mother.''

''I just know she would love for Olivia to have it. When are you planning on asking her?''

''Tonight.''

''Well, I will leave you to it. Just don't go overboard with the romantic gestures, Olivia doesn't care for such big things.''

''I know, but I will at least put a little effort into it,'' Basil protested stubbornly.

Hiram shook his head in amusement.

Basil put the box away and went downstairs to see Olivia putting on her coat. She said she was going out to by some food to make the Scottish cuisine she had promised. After everything was done, the group were sitting at the table tucking into a veritable Scottish lunch: Scottish broth (a soup with barley, lamb and vegetables), Arbroath smokies (a smoked haddock), mince and tatties, clootie dumpling (a pudding with bread crumbs) for dessert and, of course, Haggis.

''Oh, my!'' sighed Mrs Judson as she ate some broth. ''This is wonderful, Miss Olivia!''

Dawson and Pauline agreed as they helped themselves to some mince and tatties. Helen has obviously had some before since she was picking out what were clearly her favourites.

Basil had a bit of everything apart from the Haggis and said looked as though he was in love. ''Amazing!'' he said, and looked at Olivia hungrily.

Hiram beamed and said he knew Basil would like it, given he was part of the family now.

''I'll get you to eat Haggis one day,'' Olivia said with a devilish grin.

After they were finished, Mrs Judson and Hiram were cleaning the table when the door knocked once more. ''We're getting more and more visitors!'' said the housekeeper.

Olivia answered the door and saw Inspector Newton. ''Come on in,'' she said, and Newton stepped into the parlour.

''What is it?'' Basil asked, walking over to his friend.

''Firstly, William, with Cliff's surprising co-operation, we have managed to round up all of the other associates of the Viper.''

''Already?'' Helen asked in surprise.

''Mr Walker is alive and well; he was held captive inside one of the barrels in Ratigan's old lair, where the Viper intended for him to starve to death. He is being treated at the hospital. His Majesty is so relieved.'' Inspector Newton coughed and looked at Basil in hesitation. ''We also found something else: Ruby had a holiday house in the countryside of Suffolk, in a mansion owned by a human aristocrat named De Vil. Your friend Bert kindly flew us there in the early hours of this morning and we discovered that was where Ruby buried Ratigan … as well as … your aunt.''

''Violet?'' Basil repeated sharply, looking as though he might faint.

''I know how much she meant to you, William, and I know this is going to sound most unconventional, but I have to ask – do you want us to bring her back so you can say goodbye to her?''

Basil desperately nodded. ''And in exchange,'' he spat, ''you can bury Ruby in her place. She and Ratigan can rot together.''

''I thought you might say that. I'll see what I can do. That is all I came to tell you. We'll keep you informed, William,'' Newton added, putting a comforting hand on Basil's shoulder. ''Where is Fidget?'' he then asked.

Basil told him Robert and Milly's address. ''I shall head there now. Take care, all of you.''

After Newton departed, Basil remained where he stood, as still as a statue. ''William?'' Olivia asked, taking his hand. ''Are you alright?''

Basil jerked his head in her direction like a robot. ''Violet,'' he said, even sounding like a robot. ''I'll finally get to bury her.'' He abruptly burst into tears and Olivia rubbed his back. ''I'll finally to bury her!'' he howled, but it was clear he was so happy. ''Oh, I just wish Roger and Beatrice could be here to say farewell.''

Olivia and Mrs Judson shared a look but Basil didn't notice. Eventually, Basil calmed down. ''I say, Basil, as you said earlier, some things never change,'' Dawson said and everyone chuckled. ''Just as dramatic as ever.''


Hours later, the group were getting ready to go to Buckingham Palace, all dressed in their usual attire. ''Well, the king did say it was optional,'' Basil shrugged. ''And if I'm honest I never really like wearing anything other than my detective attire, apart from when I'm in disguise.''

''Of course,'' said Olivia, rolling her eyes.

Only Hiram was dressed formally wearing a black suit with a bowtie. Pauline was wearing address that obscured her stomach; Dawson was still reluctant to take any chances.

''Have a nice time,'' said Mrs Judson.

The four mice hopped onto a trolley and in no time at all they were at Buckingham Palace. Once again, the audience chamber was filled with many respectable rodents, most of whom had attended the party the night the Viper had made herself known. The group looked when they saw the Richmonds wave them over.

Marianne hugged Basil and Oliva tightly. ''I'm so glad you're alright!''

''Ha! Of course we are, Marianne,'' said Basil, and puffed out his chest. ''Anyone who harms those I care about regret it.''

''Criminals often underestimate Basil's stubbornness,'' Dawson added.

Vera took Basil's hand. ''You kept your promise,'' she said, looking at Olivia and Hiram.

Before any more could be said, some guards called Basil's group over and led them to a nearby room where Helen, Edward and George were. The king and prince said they could use the room for a minute to get themselves ready for the ceremony.

''I'm still not big on parties or attention,'' Helen said, a little shyly, ''but I guess I can out up with it for one night.''

''Ae you parents here?'' Hiram asked.

Helen said they were in the audience chamber.

''It's a good thing Peter isn't here also,'' Olivia said with a smirk.

Helen blushed furiously. ''No, but he did drop by my house earlier and said I was amazing for helping defeat the Viper, then he asked if I would like to meet up in the park tomorrow. I said yes.''

''Well done you. Go for it,'' Pauline encouraged her.

The group talked some more before it was time for the ceremony. They made their way to the audience chamber and Edward began his speech. ''Hello, everyone. A lot has happened recently. Once again, my sincerest apologise for making you all believe I was dead, but I hope you understand if we hadn't the Viper would never have been caught. The Viper is no more, her remaining henchmen are behind bars and she is reunited with her husband in the afterlife.''

Edward chuckled when the audience booed both Ratigan and Ruby.

''But that is the whole reason for tonight. Just as he saved my mother from the Viper's husband all those years ago, he saved me from the Viper herself –'' For a second time, the audience booed the two criminals – ''for if he and his team hadn't acted in time I would not be here. Once again, my family owes a great deal of thanks and gratitude to the famous detective, Basil of Baker Street!''

The audience roared with cheers as Basil and his group made their way forward to the stage. The group looked out at the crowd and saw the adoring rodents of Mousedom waving and cheering at them, including the Richmond family, Helen's parents, and Pauline and her sisters. ''William Basil, Olivia Flaversham, David Q. Dawson, Hiram Flsversham and Helen Baker, Mousedom can rest well once again now that the other most feared criminal is finally no more.''

The group turned to face the king as one by one he honoured them with the sceptre his mother had done on Basil. It was as though time had ceased inside the palace as the whole procession was in works, and under that bag of nerves, the group felt warm and fuzzy inside as they received such an honour from the king.

After it was over, everyone danced, talked or helped themselves to refreshments.

''Mr Basil?'' said a male mouse with brown fur and dark brown eyes, approaching the detective. ''Hello, my name is Ritchie and I still can't get my head around the truth about the Viper. Regina Radcliffe, really Ruby Mortimer, Ronald Mortimer's daughter. And Ratigan's wife! She sure had me fooled!''

Basil smiled sympathetically. ''She had all of us fooled, Ritchie, thanks to her voice talent. It's a lot to take in, I know.''

''It gives the willies. You see, I used to work at the Rodent Opera House until it closed down. Mrs Radcliffe was a frequent guest, in fact she would come practically every night, but on her last several visits before we shut the opera house down, she had her husband on her arm but I never saw his face, as he always wore a hood. She said he was very meek and hardly ever went out in public. He was huge and I remember thinking he reminded me of Ratigan.''

''Because it was Ratigan,'' said Olivia. ''Him being meek was just a cover Ruby had for him.''

''I know that now,'' Ritchie said, and shivered as though he was cold. ''As I said, it gives me the creeps; the two Napoleon of Crimes were right in front of me and I never knew.''

Olivia patted his shoulder.

Meanwhile, Dawson and Pauline were talking to Victor. ''Basil did tell me your secret was a gambling addiction,'' Dawson was saying. ''I've met many rodents and bats with that problem.''

Victor looked ashamed. ''Many years ago when I was younger I had an addition to gambling, but when I met Priscilla,'' he looked at his wife, who now has her arms folded sternly, ''I stopped as she detested it. We never told Juliet and Marianne this. For many years, I was perfectly fine but in recent times one of my friends asked everyone for a game of poker, betting on real money, and before I knew it I was gambling again. But it was a last time.''

''I'll hold you to that,'' Priscilla said with a smirk, taking her husband by the ear, though gently.

Everyone chuckled. Dawson and Pauline then left to speak with Basil and Olivia and Juliet and Marianne followed. Clara walked past her sister, who gave her a nod of encouragement, and approached them. ''Hello,'' she said nervously, holding her dress.

''Clara, dear,'' said Vera, smiling. ''Long time no see. How are you and Martha doing?''

''We're doing fine. I'm sorry about your husband,'' she added, and hugged the older woman.

''Speaking of which,'' Emmett piped up, ''I heard you got married again.''

Clara said she met Alonzo in Italy and he adores her and Martha. ''Anyway,'' she said a pause, looking awkward, ''Olivia said you wished you could see Martha. I have often felt bad about not letting you, but it was only because –''

''Because of Gideon,'' Victor said, nodding. ''We understand.''

''He might have been my son, but he was never father material,'' Vera agreed, sighing. ''I'm glad Alonzo is giving Martha the father's love she needs.''

''Now that Gideon is … no more,'' Clara said, apologetically, ''if you all want to be a part of Martha's life, I would never stop you. I'll talk to Alonzo and see if we can sort something out ASAP.''

Vera held the woman's hands. ''Thank you so much, Clara. Martha is my granddaughter and I can't wait to see how she has grown.''

Sally and Pauline smiled at their sister, proud of her. Olivia looked at Sally who smiled at her. She really wanted to ask her about what Pauline had said but didn't want to stir up painful memories for her. Instead, Basil placed her arm around her and led her to the dance floor, as though he could read her mind. Olivia was more convinced than ever that was the case.

''William?'' she said while they danced, one hand holding hers and the other coiled around her waist. ''At Holmes' there was a picture of woman on the table. Who is she?''

''Her name is Irene Adler. It was there the last time you went. She was the only woman who was smart as Holmes. And no, there was never romance; Holmes simply had a platonic admiration for her for her wits. That is where he and I are different; unlike him, I fell in love with you because you make me happy.''

''William …''

The two lovebirds gazed into each other's eyes transfixed as they continued to dance. A few of Basil's past female clients were looking on with absolute jealously and envy for which Dawson and the others told them off, but Basil and Olivia didn't care, and danced until it was over. It was a truly magical moment, as though there was no-on else in the world but them.


Later on, Basil and Olivia arrived back at Baker Street to find the house empty. ''Mrs Judson?'' Basil called, but found a note on the table.

Mr Basil

Have gone to visit my daughter Belle for the evening. Will be back tomorrow morning. Take good care of Miss Olivia and enjoy yourselves.

Mrs Diana Judson

''Mrs Judson deserves to have a night off and see her children,'' Olivia said, and Basil nodded in agreement. ''She obviously hasn't seen any of them in a while.''

''Indeed.'' Basil cleared his throat, grabbed Olivia hand, pulled her upstairs to the guest bedroom and pulled out an old photo album. ''Here, Livy,'' he said handing it to her. ''You can have a look at my family for a bit. I need to work on something.''

Olivia was puzzled by Basil behaviour but was accepted it, knowing he was up to something, something good. When Basil later called her downstairs, the young woman was in awe to find lit candles on the table, with Basil playing a slow, romantic music playing on his violin. When he was done, Olivia clapped her hands. ''William, I never knew you could be so romantic!''

''I'm not, but I make an exception for you, darling.'' The detective cleared his throat and looked serious. ''Olivia, nine years ago after we defeated my uncle, you walked out of that door and out of my life, and while I was happy to have Dawson as a good friend and assistant, a part of me remained miserable. I should've asked you to stay as I did with Dawson, but you and Hiram needed to leave and recuperate after your ordeal, and at the time I thought it was best for you. We made a promise we would never forget each other and I maintained that promise; I couldn't stop thinking about you, I missed you dreadfully and I hoped that one day I would see you again. Many times, I walked past you father's toy shop and was tempted to go in and ask you both to come back to me, but I let my wall prevent me from doing so, like a fool. Now that you are back in my life, Livy, I don't want you to walk out of my door again.'' Basil inhaled as he poured his heart out to his love. ''I won't ever let you go again,'' he said softly and knelt down in front of Olivia, pulling out the black velvet box from his robe pocket and opening it to reveal the beautiful turquoise ring.

Olivia gasped in surprise when she saw it. ''Oh, William …'''

''Olivia Annabel Flaversham, will you marry me and be my detective wife?''

''William Michael Basil, I will!''

Olivia pounced in Basil, knocking him to the floor, and they shared a long, loving kiss. Basil then placed the ring on Olivia's finger and they resumed their passionate kissing. Olivia undid his robe and started to grab his shirt before Basil stopped her, smiling hungrily. The couple blew out all the candles. The detective then scooped his bride into his arms and carried her upstairs to their room, where they finally celebrated the way they had been wanting to for some time (with protection, of course).

After a wonderful, passionate night, Basil and Olivia woke up the next morning as though they had never experienced anything so wonderful. ''Are you alright, darling?'' Basil asked, stroking her head. ''I didn't hurt you, did I?''

''You could never hurt me, William. I look forward to doing it again.''

Basil grinned. ''The feeling is mutual.''

Olivia gently rubbed his shoulder. She had been worried about hurting it, and even wondered if they should do anything, but Basil assured her it was okay. Although they didn't want to, the couple then got dressed in their unusual attire and made themselves some breakfast as Mrs Judson still wasn't back. They had just poured themselves some tea when there was a knock at the door.

''Ah! That'll be Mrs Judson. I hope she won't box my ears when she finds out what we've been doing.''

Olivia giggled.

Holding his cup of tea in one hand, Basil opened the door with the other but the second he did, he dropped the tea cup, smashing like glass with liquid spilling on the floor, but Basil didn't register it as he stared at the visitors. It was as though as he was breathing underwater. Standing in front of him were two mice, a male and female. Both had Basil's fur with a white middle, and the girl had his green eyes. She had shoulder-length light brown hair and with a blue bow. The male mouse looked identical to Basil but with hazel eyes, though the chestnut-brown was more visible.

''Hello, William,'' said the male mouse, in a voice similar to Basil's, but a little deeper.

''It's been a long time,'' said the female mouse, smiling.

Basil looked at her, his face crumpling. For the first since Ratigan had hurt her he was hearing her voice – and it was just as sweet and beautiful as ever. ''Roger,'' he choked as tears slid down his face like a waterfall. ''Beatrice.''

The detective could no longer contain himself. He flung himself onto his beloved siblings and howled, scarcely being able to believe the dream of reunion with them had finally come true.


So many moments we've all been waiting for have finally happened. Basil and Olivia are finally engaged, and Basil and Fidget are reunited with their families! And it appears Fidget might still have a future with Lavender after all. His reunion with Milly and Robert was partly based on the reunion of Dory and her parents.

By the way, Fidget's family name Russell was named after a certain Wilderness Explorer from Up. I was watching it while writing Fidget's past. Such a beautiful film.

Toby finally appears! Though frail, he thankfully remembers Olivia, and still detests Dawson. Poor Dawson.

Yes, Ruby's holiday house was Cruella's mansion. Obviously, this was before Cruella's time, but maybe the current owner is her father or grandfather?

I actually wrote Ruby's backstory from her perspective for the last chapter but it was slowing down her and Basil's showdown so I moved it to flashback. Character backstories, especially villains', are interesting as you understand how they became the character they, and even feel sorry for them. When writing Ruby, I always kept in mind what Michael Arndt said about Lotso in The Art of Toy Story 3 book: ''But it wasn't enough just to have him be a bad guy; we needed to know why he went bad. That's the difference between a rea antagonist, with a strong understandable worldview, and a cartoon villain.'' So when Ruby talks about how lonely she had felt, you understand how she became the Viper.

As for Angus's speech about Ruby, if you're a Fruits Basket fan and read the manga or seen the 2019 anime adaption (specifically episode 50), you will notice the dialogue was taken from Kureno's speech about a certain someone. Ruby and this person even have the same twist. Again, if you've read the manga or seen the 2019 anime adaption, you know who and what I'm talking about. As I said before, Olivia even channels Tohru somewhat, with her empathy, optimism and caring nature.

The newspaper picture of young Olivia kissing Basil's cheek was teased in the chapter when the group first visit the Richmond house, in the scene when Olivia first meets Marianne.

Time to answer some reviews:

MillenniumPrincess: Basil sure is stubborn, isn't he, fighting for his loved ones despite being injured. What you say about Ruby pretty much ties into what I said above about her. Lotso is actually a good example, and when he finds Daisy has replaced him with a new bear, you can't help but feel sorry for him, until he lies. In fact, Lee Unkrich even said at early test screenings the audience wanted Lotso to redeem himself because they felt too much sympathy for him, but the filmmakers didn't want him to, hence the lie to Big Baby.

See you soon!