SHERLOCK'S POV

I was aware of John's presence, but I did not see him, for I was too deep in my own mind to resurface and too many thoughts cluttered my head. I needed to sort and delete.

Man and children dead.
Man and children dead yet again.
Man dead.
Why?
Why were these specific people dead?
Why had they been killed?
Connections.
Connections.
Connections?
Money.

Love. I pulled a ring I had found at the crime scene out of my pocket. A thin silver band, studded with a small rose shaped diamond surrounded by little swirls. It had a clasp at the back where it would connect with another like it when the two individuals intertwined fingers. They hadn't been connected in some time. A very feminine choice, It was rather on the expensive side, and the person who bought it had been able to afford it. A few strands of brown hair were set in to it. A lovers keepsake.

A message was engraved on the inside. I.A-forever-M.H It belonged to M.H, whomever that was.

M.H... M.H must have the other ring. Mycroft Holmes? It was definitely not his brother. The only way he could manage to get to a crime scene was rolling down the street with his bottom still stuck to his chair, which he would not trouble himself doing anyways. And besides, he had no interest in marriage or anything that lifted others spirits. The hair was long, and presumably belonged to a woman. I slid it onto my finger and proceeded to think. Then it hit me. The other ring belonged to a woman as well. It was deemed acceptable for two women to be in a relationship and confess their love but getting married legally was not an option. Whoever owned the other ring was their partner. But who? I got up from the sofa, ignoring Watson's useless questioning, and traveled down into the basement where my experiments and equipment resided. I poured oil into the small lamp next to my microscope and the room was mostly illuminated, shadows cast against the wall, light flickering. I placed the ring under the device and leaned forward peering into the lens at the enlarged object. I studied the hairs and I couldn't help a grin from spreading across my face. I was right. I hurried back upstairs and let out a whoop of glee, startling Watson so badly he almost toppled out of his chair.

''Telegram Lestrade. Inform him that we are looking for two female by the initials of M.H, and I.A.''

John sighed. I'm assuming I caused his annoyance with my slightly vague answer and sudden entrance. ''I.A? M.H?''

I sat up, smoothed down my hair, and looked him in the eye. ''Yes. I.A. She killed Thomas Balinkey and our newest victim, Robert Adler. You know who.''

John opened his mouth to speak, or perhaps he was in disbelieve, but I knew he understood. He quickly left the room and I heard the sound of his typewriter keys clicking softly. I lay back on the seat, closed my eyes and smiled. An old opponent. I would have fun with this one. Aware, sharp, elegant as a swan, and yet ruthless. If you showed the slightest bit of vulnerability, she would have you on your knees begging for mercy. If you've met her, assume you'll never her again. She does hate occupying one place only. Just like I, she gets bored.

''Sh-Sherlock?''John called. His voice shook slightly and I could tell he was very discomforted. I stood and peered out the doorway of the sitting room. He sat at his desk, holding a piece of paper in his hand. He looked up from it, bit his lip, and hesitantly held it towards me. I reached and took it from his outstretched hand to read it aloud. I smiled. Forget the telegram, Watson. We have somewhere to be.

I think it's time for a reunion, don't you darling? Bring your pet.

6:00 sharp 1567 Covey Lane.

Don't be late,

I.A <3