[221B Baker Street, Holmes’s study. A faint gaslight flickers, casting long shadows across the worn Persian rug. Holmes sits quietly in his armchair; Watson sits beside him.]
Watson:
Is it true, then? Professor J.Moriarty—he’s still alive?
Holmes:
He came to deliver a declaration of war only days ago. Once again, fate beckons us to the theatre of opposition.
(The two men exchange a grave look. Suddenly, the door bursts open and Inspector Lestrade rushes in, breathless.)
Inspector Lestrade:
Holmes! Tell me it isn't true—Moriarty, alive? I was convinced the Reichenbach Falls had settled the matter once and for all!
Holmes (rising slowly from his chair):
There is no doubt. It seems someone bold enough to wrench open the gates of hell has summoned him back.
Lestrade:
Then the recent string of disturbances—it’s him again, isn’t it?
Holmes:
Without a shadow of a doubt. That pattern—it bears his unmistakable hand.
Watson:
Then what course do we take? Have you formed a plan?
Holmes:
I've already entrusted the Baker Street Irregulars with a task. They're our unseen eyes and ears.
Watson:
And what are the odds of success?
Holmes:
With Moriarty, there are no guarantees. But he is a foe worthy of the chase.
Lestrade:
If there’s even a sliver of hope to apprehend that man, Scotland Yard will put every resource at your disposal.
(Notices a paper on the desk)
What’s this here?
Watson:
This... This is the cipher of the Dancing Men, isn’t it? But why now?
Holmes:
A training exercise for the Irregulars. Even in times of urgency, they must read the language of secrecy.
Watson (leaning forward, quietly):
We’re to face him again at the Reichenbach Falls, aren’t we?
Holmes, even if you hesitate, I will not let you go alone this time.
Holmes:
Thank you, Watson. Your unwavering loyalty—there is no greater strength I could ask for.
The cache isn’t at the posted coordinates. Solve the puzzle to find the final coordinates.
Episode 1: Double Meaning
Episode 2: M is ...
Episode 3: An Ordinary Day
Episode 4: The Woman Returns
Episode 5: The Last Letter
Episode 6: The Five-Minute Encounter
Episode 7: The Key She Played
Episode 8: The Silent Stratagem
Episode 9: Where the Lights Cross