#Camberwell Doctors

[sandcobangevent]

sherlock and co flashbang submission!!

‘Drop the case.

Or I will let the whole world know how hopelessly in love you are with your precious doctor.’

- Show Your Hand by @drinkingmelonwater !!!

“Sherlock, have you seen my socks?” John asked, emerging from his room. “My stripey yellow one’s missing its pair. Have you- oh my god what are you doing with my sock.”

Sherlock, who was in the process of dipping John’s sock into a beaker of acid, didn’t reply.

“Sherlock! What are you doing?! I wear that, you know?!” John yelled, attempting to rescue his sock to no avail.

“Apologies, but I’m afraid this is important,” Sherlock replied briskly.

“Important enough to destroy my stuff?” John snapped. “Couldn’t you have used your own?”

Sherlock hesitated. “If that’s what you want.”

John sighed, “Nevermind, you can have it. Keep the other one too, if you want. No use having one sock without the other.”

Sherlock brightened instantly, resuming his experiment with vigor, at the expense of John’s stripy yellow sock. John sat down on the sofa, now sock-less, and stared out the window at the rainy sky outside. It was a downcast sort of Tuesday, the kind that made you want to sleep in and enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate. He would get no sort of rest, however, for he was interrupted by a case.

“Sherlock, John?” Mariana knocked and opened the door. “We have a client.”

“Excellent,” Sherlock replied. “Tell them to leave their damp shoes and belongings by the door.”

“How did you- nevermind, just get down here as soon as possible,” Mariana said before retreating.

“Another client already?” John exclaimed. “Excellent. Wait, let me get the microphone.”

“Grab a towel too,” Sherlock called. “The client will have absorbed a significant amount of rainwater, if how much rubbed off on Mrs. Hudson in their brief interaction is anything to go by.”

When John returned, towel in one hand and microphone in the other, Sherlock was waiting for him by the door. Together, they went downstairs to meet their new client.

“Boys,” Mariana said, “This is Flora Hawkins. She’s our new client.”

Sherlock was right. Flora was drenched in rainwater. She’d removed her boots and raincoat by the door, but water still dripped from her hair in rivulets, leaving damp spots on the floorboards.

John handed her the towel, “Hi, Flora. Why, exactly, are you covered in water?”

Flora didn’t dignify his question with a reply.

“What I want to know,” Sherlock said, “Is what exactly prompted someone to run from Camberwell to Central London in the middle of a rainstorm.”

“Jesus Christ, Camberwell? You walked that far?” John gasped.

“I like walking,” Flora said defensively. “It’s better for you.”

“What brings you here today, Flora Hawkins?” Sherlock asked.

“I’ve got a case for you,” she replied. “But, I suppose you already know that. Recently, I’ve gotten in a spot of trouble. In Surrey, there’s this lovely nature reserve. I’ve been several times, and it has this gorgeous lake and forest. But, about a month ago, some company or another bought up the land and started cutting it down to build a factory! Right on top of the wildlife living there, like it was no better than mud! So, I called up some old friends from Uni. We were part of this activist club, and all cared deeply about nature. So we went to the construction site to protest.

“Only, when we got there, the site was abandoned. Turns out the workers have Sundays off. We basically showed up to nothing. A few members started getting worked up, and before I knew it, a riot broke out. People were smashing construction equipment, yelling, screaming, causing a huge ruckus. Monkeywrenching is crazy illegal, and I saw cameras all over the place. So I smashed them. I work for a tech company, I know my way around cameras, and how to destroy the data they store. After that, we ran off. They still don’t know who did it, last time I checked.”

“Hey, um, you know I’m recording this, right? For the podcast. It’ll be on the internet and, well, you know,” John asked.

Flora sighed, “I know. I might have minded, if not for what happened next.”

“What happened next?” Sherlock leaned forward eagerly.

“Well, I started getting emails. I dunno from who, they were always just… strings of random letters. Attached were photos of…”

“Blackmail,” John breathed.

“Right. The sender threatened to release the photos to the police and the press if I didn’t cough up £100,000,” Flora said.

“And what did you do about them?” Sherlock asked.

“Well, nothing. I wasn’t like I could go to the police, they’d arrest me for vandalism. So I ignored them. The emails kept arriving, all from different addresses, once a week, and I did nothing. Until one day, I didn’t receive an email. I received a letter.”

From her pocket, Flora produced a letter. It had been sealed in a plastic bag to keep it dry, which was a good call. The outside of the bag shimmered with water droplets. Sherlock snatched the bag, ripped it open, and handed the letter to John.

“Watson, read the letter aloud for us,” he instructed.

John stared at the letter, neatly typed and printed. He read it aloud.

“Hawkins,

This is your final warning. Drop the money off at the Peckham Road petrol station on Saturday, 2pm. Fail to comply, and there will be consequences. I will be watching.”

“That’s why I came to you,” Flora explained. “I live with my mother, and I was worried. If I didn’t do something… who knows if the consequences might be more than jail?”

“Don’t worry,” John reassured, placing a hand on Flora’s shoulder. “We’ll find the culprit, right, Sherlock?”

“Hm,” Sherlock closed his eyes, deep in thought. “Watson, hand over the letter. Hawkins, may we see the emails sent to you?”

“Sure, I’ll pull them up now, and forward them to you later,” Flora replied, tapping at her phone. “Here.”

Sherlock took Flora’s phone and compared it to the letter. “South London Gallery postage stamp, bought at Camberwell, perpetrator likely lives in the area. Standard A4 paper, office quality. Typed, not handwritten; even the envelope. Could be a show of excess caution, but there could be a specific reason for the blackmailer to conceal their handwriting… Then, there’s the location.”

“What is it?” Mariana asked. “Did you notice something?”

“I believe so,” Sherlock said. “When did the letter arrive?”

“Yesterday.”

“Inconsistent with the emails,” Sherlock muttered thoughtfully. Then, he stood. “I believe I have solved part of the case.”

“Already?! Christ, Sherlock, what is it?” John exclaimed.

“The email blackmailer is not the letter blackmailer.”

“How’d you know that?” Flora asked.

“Simple, really,” Sherlock said. “There are many discrepancies between the emails and the letter. For one, the delivery date. The emails always arrived on Wednesday, at 11am on the dot. However, the letter arrived on Monday. The letter also requests a different drop off location for the money. It doesn’t add up.”

“Well, that doesn’t mean it’s a completely different person,” John argued.

“Perhaps not. However, it’s enough to raise suspicion. If there is someone already aware of the blackmail, then we may have our culprit,” Sherlock turned to Flora expectantly.

“…You think it’s Tom?” Flora asked.

“Wait, hold on. Who’s Tom?” John interrupted, confused.

“An ex-boyfriend,” Sherlock explained. “The breakup was recent too. It wouldn’t be difficult to reason that Hawkins here fought with ‘Tom’ over the blackmailing incident, and broke up with him when they refused to see eye-to-eye. It makes sense that he did it. Bitter over the breakup, he decided to get revenge. It would explain why the blackmailer knew your address, and why the letter was typed. He knew you would recognize his handwriting. I doubt he really expected you to pay up, but he offered an avenue just in case.”

“That piece of shit!” Flora cursed. “I knew he was shady, but to take advantage like that- I ought to give him a piece of my mind!” With that, she gathered her belongings and stormed away.

John coughed, disrupting the silence that ensued after Flora’s dramatic departure. “So… is that it? Because that’s barely enough for an episode. Heck, Sherlock, you hardly even had to leave your chair!”

“This is hardly the end, Watson. The email blackmailer is still very much at large,” Sherlock rose from his chair and turned for 221B. “Grab your raincoat. We’re going to Surrey.”

—

“Sherlock, did we really have to take a train to Surrey in the middle of a rainstorm? I mean, couldn’t we have waited a few hours for the weather to clear? Feels like it’d be a whole lot easier to investigate when you can see more than a dozen feet in front of you,” John winced as he trudged through the slurry of mud that was once a working path.

“Contrary to your belief, this was entirely necessary. The construction crew will have cleared out due to the rain. This is our chance to investigate uninterrupted,” Sherlock explained.

“The last time the construction crew left, all their cameras were smashed. There’s no way they’ll leave the place unattended,” John countered.

“They won’t. But they won’t have cameras either. After the cameras proved themselves faulty, the company would have found alternative methods of protection, such as a security guard. A security guard that we can fool.”

“Brilliant. So what’s the plan, walk up and tell the guard we’re investigating the vandalism?”

“Precisely, Watson. Precisely.”

-

“Hey! What are you two doing here?!” a voice cut through the rain and fog.

John whirled around to find himself face-to-face with what he supposed was meant to be a security guard. It wasn’t a very impressive security guard. He was gangly, his too-large uniform hanging off his shoulders and pooling at his boots. The acne and scraggly beard only made him look more like a teenager. The man- boy, really- had squared his shoulders to look bigger and more menacing, but with rain-drenched hair and clothes, he looked more like a wet cat. The only vaguely intimidating thing about him was the taser strapped to his belt, which he hovered his hand over in warning.

“Hey- look, we were just-“

“We are investigators, hired by the company to look into-“

“The lights? Finally! I’ve been trying to get someone to look into that for ages, but nobody seemed to believe me,” the guard interrupted.

“Sorry- what lights?” John asked. He exchanged a glance with Sherlock, who simply shrugged in response.

“You don’t know? Well, I’ve been stationed out here for a few weeks- ever since the cameras were smashed. The name’s Adam, by the way. I usually work night shifts, and this past week, I’ve been seeing lights in the distance. Brief, flashing lights. I’ve reported the incidents dozens of times, but it always gets waved off. Not anymore, though. They finally sent you two to investigate,” the guard was so eager, John almost felt bad for having to burst his bubble.

“Actually, we’re here for-“ John began.

“We’ll look into it,” Sherlock interrupted.

John blinked, “Sherlock, what are you doing?”

“Adam,” Sherlock said, ignoring John’s protests, “Where do you see these lights coming from?”

“Over there,” Adam replied, pointing at the tree line by the lake, which was barely visible through the rain. “The flashes appear at night, in the same general area.”

“Have you investigated them?” Sherlock asked.

“Ah,” Adam blushed. “I’ve been too nervous to go see for myself. I mean, what if it’s aliens?”

“I doubt it,” Sherlock said coldly. “Come, Watson. It’s time to investigate.”

“It’s just over there,” Adam pointed, stopping in his tracks. “I’ll leave you two to the investigation. If you need me, I’ll be over there, watching. From under the shade, far from the rain. Comfortably.” With that, he scampered off.

“Watson, pull up the photographs Hawkins sent to you,” Sherlock instructed, before crouching down by the treeline, prodding away damp leaves and shrubs with a stick.

John did as told. “So what, you think the lights are connected to our case?”

“I think they’re more connected than you can imagine,” Sherlock replied. “Look here. It’s rather faint, the rain’s washed most of it away, but those are definitely not natural marks.”

John peered at the mud. Sherlock was right, there were faint, odd-looking marks. There were a few that seemed to be bootprints, but also several wide, shallow divots, and most peculiarly of all, three deep indentations, no more than a centimeter in diameter, arranged in a triangular shape.

“What on Earth is this?” John gasped.

“These are clearly bootprints, so the shallow indents are likely caused by a person pressing their legs and torso against the ground. The three marks are likely caused by the legs on some sort of equipment- I’d wager it was a camera tripod. If the photographer was sitting on their knees, the camera would be at just the right level to- bingo.”

“Bingo what?” John asked. It was always fascinating to hear Sherlock’s deduction process live, right as it happened.

“Take a look at the photographs of Hawkins. They’re both taken from a low angle, almost exactly from this spot. This mystery photographer is the one who captured the photo of Hawkins.”

“Hold on,” John said, “If this photographer caught the photo of Hawkins, then why did they stick around afterwards? I mean, those flashes of light Adam saw, they were the camera flash, right? Why linger around?”

“That is a great question, Watson, and the one we must find the answer to.”

-

“Sherlock,” John called, “Sherlock, stop pacing. Adam’s not going to reply if you wear a hole in the rug.”

Sherlock stopped pacing to flop back onto the bed next to John. “I have theories, John, but no concrete answers. Who is the blackmailer, and how can we catch them?”

John leaned back, laying next to Sherlock. He stared up at the water stained ceiling of their rented room. “Penny for your thoughts?”

“What?”

“Would you like to share your theories?”

“…” Sherlock flicked his eyes towards John before fixing his gaze on the ceiling. “I contacted the Irregulars. Turns out, there’s no shortage of blackmail systems in England’s underbelly. Many have homeless networks of their own, watching for slip ups among Britain’s most influential. We have plenty of suspects to choose from.”

“Any idea who it might be?” John asked.

“Perhaps.” John waited, but Sherlock didn’t continue.

Laying there, next to his friend, listening to the rain outside begin to ebb, John felt strangely relaxed. He felt his eyelids begin to droop, and didn’t bother fighting the lull of sleep.

-

“Watson.”

“Watson.”

“John!”

John felt hands on his shoulder, shaking him awake. He grumbled, turning and batting the hands away.

“John, wake up!”

John opened his eyes. Sherlock was standing above him, eyes gleaming.

“Mmh, what time is it?” John murmured sleepily.

“It’s 2:18 am, and Adam’s messaged us. He’s seen the lights, it’s time.”

“Oh shit, really?” John jolted up, suddenly wide awake. “Let’s go!”

“You see that, over there?” Adam pointed. John and Sherlock watched as, in the darkness, there was a small flash of light. It wasn’t very bright, but in the dark, it may have been a spotlight.

Without hesitation, Sherlock began creeping towards the light. He edged around, creeping like a cat, before breaking into a sprint and leaping at the shrubs. John heard a soft yelp, which thankfully didn’t sound like Sherlock. He ran to Sherlock and turned on his phone flashlight to reveal a short-haired woman with her cheek pressed to the mud, wrists pinned behind her back by Sherlock Holmes.

“Ack!” the woman yelped, “Get off- What do you think you’re doing?!”

“Sherlock, what-“

“Who are you?” Sherlock asked, “What are you doing here?”

“I’m- not- answering- until- you- get- off!” the woman yelled, thrashing wildly. She actually managed to throw Sherlock briefly, but he held firm until John pulled him off.

“Sherlock, stop-“ John said before turning to the lady. “Sorry about that.”

“You better be,” she scowled, “Who do you guys think you are, going around tackling photographers in the middle of the night?”

“What’s a photographer doing in the middle of the night?” John asked incredulously.

“Wildlife photography,” Sherlock answered.

“How’d you know that?” both John and the photographer asked at the same time.

“Your bag has a logo on it. WWP, World Wildlife Photography. It would explain why you’re in a nature reserve in the middle of the night,” Sherlock explained.

“Oh.” the woman said. “When you put it like that, it sounds bloody obvious, doesn’t it?”

“I will ask you again,” Sherlock said, “Who are you and what are you doing here?”

“Kathleen Moore,” Kathleen glared at Sherlock. “And didn’t you answer your own question? I’m here because I’m a wildlife photographer.”

“Not at all,” Sherlock replied, “Why would a wildlife photographer stay in the same place for over a week, and why would you photograph the worst possible area? Factory construction has driven away most of the wildlife. Not much for you to shoot, is there, Kathleen Moore?”

“Well, I-I’m here for freelance work. I’m taking photographs of the damage caused by the factory to publish in a magazine,” Kathleen replied.

Sherlock regarded her suspiciously, so she continued. “I’ve already got reporters purchasing my photos.”

“Is that so?” Sherlock asked. “Who?”

“Marcus Douglass,” Kathleen replied easily.

“Sorry, who’s Marcus Douglass?” John asked. The name didn’t ring any bells.

“A reporter, obviously,” Kathleen sneered. “Does only one of you have your brains on at a time?”

John probably would have yelled at her for the insult, if Sherlock hadn’t aimed a kick at her shins. Kathleen fell to the mud with a wet splat.

“This is assault!” she wailed. “You can’t do this!”

“Cooperate and I won’t have to,” Sherlock said coldly. “I have questions to ask.” Sherlock reached out a hand wordlessly. The photos, he seemed to say. John retrieved his phone and pulled up the pictures of Flora Hawkins. They were taken from almost exactly where John stood. He handed the phone to Sherlock.

“You took this photo of Flora Hawkins in this very place one month ago. Don’t deny it, you know you did. Then, you sold it to Marcus Douglass.”

Kathleen’s lip quivered. “I didn’t realize what I’d done until it was too late. I saw the person I’d captured in the photo, and heard the commotion, but I’m used to tuning out distractions, so I kept working. I was so tired afterwards that I forgot to delete the photo off my SD card. When Marcus Douglass approached me, he was genuinely interested in my work, so I showed him the photos I’d collected. He loved them, and offered a very good price, so I saw no reason not to sell them to him. It wasn’t until after I’d sent him off with a copy of the photos that I realized what I’d given him, and by that point, there was nothing I could do. He’s gone off and blackmailed the poor girl, or got her arrested, hasn’t he?”

“Hey,” John said soothingly, bending down to rest a hand on Kathleen’s shoulder. “It wasn’t your fault. Any and all blame falls squarely on his shoulders.”

“Why stick around afterwards?” Sherlock asked. “The one person that showed interest in your work turned out to be a fraud. Why continue?”

“Well, I wanted to give up, and very nearly did, too. I took some time off and gave it some thought. I’m still very invested in this little passion project of mine, even if nobody else is. So I chose to keep going,” Kathleen replied. John had to admit, he admired her dedication to her job.

“Very well then, Ms. Moore. That is all. We will leave now,” Sherlock said, turning away.

“Sherlock,” John hissed under his breath. “You tackled this poor girl and kicked her to the ground. Oughtn’t you apologize to her?”

Sherlock looked as if he’d been asked to eat a lemon, peel and all. “Very well, Watson. My- apologies, Kathleen.”

“There we go. That wasn’t so hard, now was it?” John said cheerfully. “Sorry again, Kathleen. Have a nice day- night- is it day now? Whatever. Have a nice one.”

Kathleen gave him a soft smile. “Sorry for what I said earlier, I was worked up. Have a nice day as well. I should go as well. Bye, John.”

John waved goodbye as Kathleen packed up her equipment, then turned to Sherlock. “Well, we have a name now.”

To his surprise, Sherlock was frowning, almost glaring at his shoes as he walked. “Sherlock? You alright there, mate?”

“I don’t trust her.”

“Who? Kathleen? Why not?”

“I didn’t call you John earlier.”

John’s mouth fell open slightly. “But she did.”

“She knew who we were already. She could be in cahoots with the blackmailer. We can’t trust her testimony.”

John sighed, “So what, we’re back to square one?”

Sherlock sighed as well. “Unfortunately.”

-

When they returned to their room, it was three in the morning, yet John and Sherlock both found themselves unable to sleep. Sherlock sat in bed, tapping frantically at his phone, while John paced in slow circles around the room.

“Bugger,” Sherlock cursed under his breath. “Another Marcus Douglass, but this one’s a baker. Not the one we’re looking for. Marcus Douglass may just be a name Kathleen Moore used to throw us off the culprit’s scent.”

“What about Kathleen herself?” John asked.

“I’ve checked. Some of her work’s been published. On the surface, she’s just a small wildlife photographer. She has a website for freelance work, but- wait.”

John moved to peer at Sherlock’s phone from over his shoulder. “What is it- Marcus Douglass. He’s listed as a customer.”

“Marcus Douglass, for ‘Show Your Hand’…” Sherlock opened a new tab and googled the name.

“‘Show Your Hand’… It’s a tabloid magazine. Why did Kathleen think a tabloid wanted wildlife photos from her?” John wondered aloud.

“She didn’t. Her work for Show Your Hand likely wasn’t related to wildlife at all.” Sherlock frowned, “Dammit, there’s no Marcus Douglass on the list of writers for Show Your Hand.”

“Wait, what? If Kathleen’s work wasn’t wildlife related, then what was it?” John asked.

“It’s the perfect moneymaking system. Show Your Hand collects evidence of wrongdoing, then blackmails them. If they refuse to pay up, they publish the scandal. Kathleen Moore was likely hired to watch the area. Hawkins wasn’t the intended target, the company building the factory was.”

“So you think Show Your Hand is behind the blackmail?”

“Yes.”

“That’s brilliant!” John exclaimed. “You’ve done it again, Sherlock!”

“…Thank you.” Sherlock said softly. “But don’t praise me yet. The most dangerous part is still ahead of us.”

“What’s that?”

“We need proof of guilt. Evidence. Show Your Hand has headquarters in London. In the morning, we will pay them a visit.”

“Breaking and entering again?” John sighed. “One of these days, we’ll be able to solve a case without committing a crime.”

Sherlock suddenly glanced sharply at John. “Be careful, John. These people know who we are and tipped Kathleen off about us. Make sure you don’t have any blackmailable secrets out in the open.”

John shrugged, “I don’t think I do. I’m sure I’ll be alright.”

Sherlock yawned softly, then laid down, turned over, and fell asleep. He must have been exhausted. Sherlock clearly didn’t sleep earlier. John glanced at the clock. 3:13. He knew he should be heading to bed as well, but his mind was racing. They were getting close, he knew it. Sherlock’s warning was ominous, but John was sure he would be alright. He wasn’t a secretive man, and had few skeletons in his closet. John glanced at Sherlock. He might not have anything to hide, but what about..?

Sherlock’s phone chimed softly. John glanced at Sherlock, who stirred softly but didn’t wake. The phone chimed again. Sherlock had left it on, and it emitted a soft glow. John reached for it, intending to turn it off, when he remembered Sherlock’s warning. They were being watched by a blackmailing organization. The text was from an unknown number. John itched with curiosity. The phone chimed a third time.

He knew he shouldn’t but he couldn’t help himself. He picked up the phone and read the text.

‘Drop the case.

Or I will let the whole world know how hopelessly in love you are with your precious doctor.’

-

“Sherlock, John!” Mariana called when they returned to 2218.

“Hey, Mariana,” John said. “We’re back.”

“There’s something I think you guys should see,” Mariana said, biting her lip.

Sherlock frowned, “What is it, Mrs. Hudson?”

“Follow me.” Mariana led them up the stairs to 221B.

John and Sherlock gasped as they entered 221B. “What the hell happened here?!”

A small cyclone had torn through the room. Drawers were open and shelves were ransacked. Random odds and ends lay on the ground. The window was ajar, a cold breeze blowing through the flat.

“I checked this morning, and found the flat like this,” Mariana explained. “I’m not sure what happened.”

“What do we do?” John asked.

“Nothing here. They’ve made their move. Now it’s time to make ours.” Sherlock turned for the door. “Come with us, Mrs. Hudson, we’re going to Show Your Hand headquarters.”

After lunch, of course. The three of them stopped by a sandwich shop for a bite, and Sherlock explained the case to Mariana. Then, they hailed a cab. The cab brought them to a modern-looking, nondescript building. Sherlock swung the door open and led them inside.

John and Mariana followed Sherlock to the front desk. “Hello, we have an interview scheduled for 1:30.”

The receptionist didn’t even look up from the paperback novel he was reading. “Directory’s on the wall, elevator’s to the left.”

They piled into the elevator. “So, what now?” Mariana asked, looking at Sherlock expectantly.

Before Sherlock could reply, John hit the button for floor 3. “Now, we visit Bobby Crawford,” he said.

Sherlock and Mariana stared at him uncomprehendingly, so he continued. “Robert Crawford is one of the executives at Show Your Hand. A search of his name will reveal an obituary for Marcus Douglass Crawford, his son.”

Sherlock’s eyes widened and he grinned excitedly. “He’s the true mastermind of this scheme. That’s brilliant, John.”

John smiled softly, but the elevator door opened before he could reply. “Let’s go.”

Crawford’s office was at the end of the hall. The door was locked, but Sherlock picked the door open. Inside, it appeared no different from any ordinary office. It had a desk, a potted plant, and a dull gray rug. The entire room was military-neat, not a speck of dust out of place. The only odd thing about the room was the floor-to-ceiling wall of filing cabinets. They were labeled A-Z, and Sherlock wasted no time reaching for one. Out of the ‘F’ box, he dug out a manila folder labeled ‘Flora Hawkins.’ It was thin, almost empty, and only contained the photographs emailed to her, alongside some personal information, such as her address.

“This should be sufficient evidence. Scotland Yard can handle the arrest and investigation.” Sherlock said. “Let’s go- Watson, what are you doing?”

John was digging through the ‘S’ cabinet, rifling through folders. “Looking for something,” he grunted.

“Looking for- John. What are you looking for.” it wasn’t a question. Sherlock knew what John was looking for, or at the very least had a good guess.

“He’s looking for this, of course,” a thin, cold voice spoke from behind them. In the doorway, a man stood. He was in his 60’s, with a significant gut and thinning gray hair. In his hand was a manila folder, stuffed fuller than the one marked Flora Hawkins. On it was the name Sherlock Holmes.

“You look surprised to see this, Mr. Holmes. Curious, that you’re surprised while Dr. Watson isn’t. After all, didn’t I send you all this myself?” Crawford drawled. At Sherlock’s confusion, he laughed, high and cruel. “You don’t know! Watson here has seen your deepest secret, and you didn’t even know!”

Sherlock stiffened. “Watson, what’s this about?”

John bit his lip guiltily. “Yesterday, when you were asleep, you received a text.”

“And you read it?!” Sherlock asked, hurt.

John winced, “I’m sorry, Sherlock. I really am.”

Sherlock looked down, unable to meet John’s stare. “What did you see?”

“I can answer that,” Crawford said, disproportionately cheerful. “Watson here is totally aware of your little crush on him. Isn’t that right?”

John fixed Crawford with a murderous glare. “Fuck off.”

“Heh, I’ll take that as a yes.” Crawford smirked.

Sherlock grit his teeth, not daring to look at John. He knew. Had known for a while now, in fact. Their friendship, which Sherlock had grown to cherish, while not necessarily over, was certainly damaged. Would John be able to look him in the eye, or compliment his brilliance, or any of the other little things Sherlock loved to see him do again without feeling awkward?

“Worry not, Holmes. You needn’t mourn the loss of your friendship for long. You two aren’t going anywhere,” Crawford shut and locked the door, then meandered over to the desk and unlocked a small drawer. From it, he produced a revolver. He flicked off the safety and pointed it at Sherlock. “A single move from you, from either of you,” Crawford said, flicking the gun at John, who’d made a move toward him, “And I’ll blow your brains out.”

“What do you want from us?” John asked tensely.

“Your deaths, mostly,” Crawford said easily. “I can’t have you ruining my empire. But I suppose I could settle for your quiet retirement. If you leave the country and never return, I might not have to kill you.”

“Fuck off,” John hissed. “That’s not happening.”

Crawford shrugged. “Okay. I’m not picky. I suppose I’ll just have to kill you then.” He brandished the weapon between John and Sherlock. “Let’s see, who first? How about… You.” Crawford aimed the gun at John. “I’ll enjoy the look on our consulting detective’s face when his boyfriend gets a bullet to the head.” His finger twitched on the trigger.

John closed his eyes, bracing for impact. Sherlock made an aborted leap for John, sweat beading on his brow.

Suddenly, Crawford was bowled over as Mariana sent his desk chair flying into him. He hit the ground with a curse, gun flying out of his hand. Sherlock leapt forward, snatching the gun from him and pointing it at him. Mariana leveled a kick at Crawford’s vital organs.

“John, call the police!” Sherlock barked.

As John dialed the police, Mariana and Sherlock worked to restrain Crawford and tie him up. When the police arrived, they took the three of them in for questioning. It was well into the afternoon by the time they returned to Baker Street. The air was charged with an awkward tension. Mariana left them on the steps to 221B, unable to be rid of the tense atmosphere soon enough. John and Sherlock stood in their disordered flat, resolutely looking anywhere but each other.

“John,” Sherlock began, at the same time John said, “Sherlock.”

They both stared at each other, then chuckled awkwardly. John motioned for Sherlock to continue.

“I understand if, in light of some new developments, you find yourself, ah, unable to maintain friendly relations with. Me.” Sherlock’s voice broke, and he glanced away, twisting his hands.

“Sherlock, I-”

“I get it. My feelings are unreciprocated, and I wouldn’t expect you to return them. I have made peace with them. I would not want to make you uncomfortable.”

“Uncomfortable my ass!” John snapped. “If anyone’s uncomfortable here, it’s you.” His voice softened. “I’m sorry for invading your privacy like I did. I shouldn’t have read your texts.”

“Quite alright,” Sherlock said, waving off the apology. “I forgive you.” His posture was still stiff, and he still refused to look at John.

“Hey, look at me, Sherlock.” John reached his hand up to brush Sherlock’s cheek. Sherlock flinched softly at the touch. “Even if I wish it was with better circumstances, I’m glad things turned out the way they did. Because, well…” John leaned in and kissed Sherlock.

Sherlock froze like a deer in headlights, making no move to reciprocate or even indicate he was still alive. When John pulled away, he gasped for air like a drowning man, searching John’s face for answers uncomprehendingly.

“I love you too, Sherlock.” John said simply, a sappy grin breaking his rosy cheeks.

Sherlock was sure he was grinning just as hard when he pulled John in for another kiss.

[ukrfeminism]

The number of 10 to 19-year-olds charged with rape in London has more than doubled in two years, according to shock new figures.

In the year to December, 802 suspects were charged out of 8,839 reports — nine per cent of the total, compared with 364 over the same period in 2021.

For those aged 10 to 19, the number shot up from 35 to 74 individuals — a rise of 111 per cent.

The Metropolitan Police figures were revealed as a leading expert issued a stark warning over the rise of teenage boys copying what they see in violent pornography.

Sian Ruddick, an NHS specialist in supporting adolescent rape victims, said many consider choking girls during sex as “normal” behaviour after viewing it on their phones.

She called for teachers to hold regular workshops on consent and boundaries because it had become “really horrific” for teenage girls in and out of the classroom. 

Ms Ruddick, who works at The Havens — three clinics for survivors run by King’s College Hospital in Camberwell, Whitechapel and Ladbrooke Grove — wants schools, colleges and universities to become “zero tolerance” places for sexual violence. She said “turning the tide” on wrongdoing starts at school.

“You’re never going to be able to wipe out everyone’s access to porn, but you can have a safe and rigid conversation about consent. 

“The normalisation of strangulation in sex among teenagers does feel like a step backwards. Boys see it in porn and then it’s expected. We need to have more sex-positive conversations but pornography has filled that void.”

Last month, the UK police’s lead in tackling child abuse revealed that hardcore porn and access to smart phones had turned children into abusers — with more than 6,813 alleged rapes committed by youngsters aged 10 to 17 across Britain in a year.

Ms Ruddick — a member of the pan-London rape scrutiny panel — runs a team supporting 350 women going through the justice system. Funding restraints mean another 50 are on the waiting list.

The advocates provide information, emotional and practical support, including going to meetings with police and attending court if the case goes to trial. 

They work as part of a wider team at The Havens, where specialist doctors, nurses and therapists work together to support people who have been recently assaulted.

Anyone sexually assaulted or raped can ask for a forensic medical examination in order to gather DNA evidence for a criminal investigation – the timescales are different for different assaults but for vaginal rape tests can still find forensics after seven days. Last year, 1,200 examinations were carried out in the capital.

Not everyone wants to report to the police, and for those that do, keeping underwear, clothing, sanitary products, images or used condoms and not to wash or bathe helps to preserve evidence.

Later this year, a pilot will see survivors being able to give live video link evidence to Croydon Crown Court from a suite at The Havens.

Ms Ruddick said: “We don’t try to steer people to what they should or shouldn’t do.

“The most important thing is they have the information, access and time.

“We know the withdrawal rates, particularly in London, are very high. The criminal justice system can be an overwhelming place to be.

“We want survivors to know you are not alone - you will have someone with you seeking to understand and advocate. We don’t speak on behalf of our clients but we hope to amplify their voices and get to the ears of people making the decisions.”

Ms Ruddick says many victims have been left uneasy due to low trust and confidence in the Metropolitan Police following the murder of marketing executive Sarah Everard, 33, by PC Wayne Couzens who worked in the same armed unit as serial rapist PC David Carrick.

Baroness Louise Casey’s scathing review of the force painted an alarming picture of how crimes against women and children are investigated.

A lunchbox was found in the same fridge as rape samples and appliances were so full they had to be strapped shut. One fridge containing rape kits broke down, meaning evidence could not be used.

Ms Ruddick says “There is no getting away from the Met having had a really difficult couple of years. For that to be someone’s anxiety, is understandable. Things need to significantly improve if survivors are going to have faith in the process.

“But too few cases are charged and too few found guilty.

“In the past three years, we see more and more people struggling with the length of time it is taking.

“The shame that ends up being put on survivors. It’s never their fault - they are not to blame. That message feels so important. This was someone else’s choice that was inflicted on you.

“People often don’t feel able to tell their parents, friends or people at university. However, one thing we hear from clients is having their voices heard made them feel valued and believed.

“For survivors, it feels very mixed even with a guilty verdict. They find hardest an expectation from other people that they should now be fine and it’s all over. So often, it’s the start of the recovery, a different type of beginning.”

In December, teenage serial rapist Kevarnie Queen, 19, dubbed the “Brixton R Kelly” was jailed for 12 years after committing a three-year campaign of sexual violence against six girls under 18.

Commander Kevin Southworth, the Met’s lead for public protection, said: “We are dedicated to putting victim-survivors of rape at the heart of everything we do to eradicate sexual violence largely caused by predatory men and support those who are impacted.

“We’ve transformed the way we investigate rape and sexual offences, more than doubling our number of rape charges since 2021.

“We’re not complacent and remain absolutely resolute in our commitment to target offenders and protect women and girls, but we cannot do this alone.

“Listening to victim-survivors, and working together with charities and partners across the criminal justice system, we’re working to ensure that all victims-survivors have the confidence to report these most awful crimes and do all that we can to get them the justice they deserve.

“If you have been a victim of sexual violence and not yet reported it – please contact your local police service and we will do all that we can to help.”

Recent Ministry of Justice data shows the average London rape victim waits three years and three months to get a court result, down from over four years at the start of 2022.

A MoJ spokesman said ministers introduced a raft of measures to speed up hearings since the start of the pandemic, including funding unlimited Crown Court sitting days for a third year in a row.

She added: “We know that victims who feel supported are 50 per cent more likely to stay engaged in the criminal justice system and Independent Sexual Violence Advocates and Domestic Violence Advisors offer crucial emotional support to victims regardless of whether they report to the police.

“This is why we are quadrupling funding for victim and witnesses support services and committed to recruiting 300 more specialist advisors by 2025.”

[jackofhearts-odb]

I was asked by a friend to create a set of playing cards that we could use in poker in game based on the biggest members of the community. Just about everyone pictured here is staff or an admin, and it was a kind of thank you to all of the team I work with for making such a great community. I'm hoping maybe I can design a tarot deck based on the people around town as well.

From left to right it goes: Chief Marshal Jacob McKenzie, head doctor Ellie Rhodes, general store owner Clyde Lucas, Marshal Paladin, rancher Leotie Pear, saloon owner Jimmy Brush, Deputy Marshal Doc Shatner, shaman Shay Coyote, Deputy Marshal Wesley Price (that's me!), Marshal Gramps Masterson, horse trainer Darcy Harper, and blacksmith Jonathan Camberwell.

[bishopclimate]

At the Healing School: Testimony of Healing from Heart Disease

Testimony of Healing from Heart Disease Imagine living with a debilitating heart condition, constantly being told by doctors that there is little hope for a cure. That was the reality for one woman who suffered from mitral valve prolapse, a condition that affects the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Her life was filled with uncertainty and fear, until she attended a special Friday service led by a renowned prophet. As she sat among the congregation, listening to the prophet's words of hope and healing, something extraordinary happened. The prophet spoke directly to her, addressing her condition and assuring her that God's healing power was present in that very moment. A wave of laughter filled her heart, and she couldn't help but join in. It was a moment of pure joy and release. After the service, the woman decided to take a leap of faith and trust in the prophet's words. She made the decision to pursue further medical evaluation, despite the discouraging prognosis she had previously received. Three weeks later, she found herself sitting in the office of a heart specialist, anxiously awaiting the results. What she heard next was nothing short of miraculous. The heart specialist confirmed that her condition had inexplicably improved. The once-faulty mitral valve was now functioning normally, as if the disease had never existed. The doctors were astounded and had no medical explanation for this sudden turnaround. This woman's story is just one of many testimonies of healing that have emerged from the special Friday services led by the prophet. Each week, people from all walks of life gather at the Healing School, eager to experience the transformative power of God's healing touch. Join Us Every Friday at the Healing School If you are seeking healing or know someone who is in need, we invite you to join us every Friday at the Healing School. Located at the Kingdom Temple on 93 Camberwell Station Road in London, this sacred space is where miracles happen. At the Healing School, you will be immersed in an atmosphere of faith and expectation. The prophet, guided by divine inspiration, delivers powerful messages of hope and restoration. Through his prayers, individuals are touched by God's healing power, both physically and emotionally. It is important to note that the prophet requests your prayer request as a point of contact. By submitting your prayer request, you open the door for God's intervention in your life. You can easily submit your prayer request by visiting our website: Submit Your Prayer Request. Experience the Miraculous If you are unable to attend the Healing School in person, we offer a live broadcast of the Friday services. Join us every Friday at 7:30 pm UK time, and be a part of the incredible healing testimonies that unfold within the Kingdom Temple. God's healing power knows no boundaries. It is not limited by time, distance, or circumstance. Whether you are in London, New York, or anywhere else in the world, you can access the healing touch of God. If you are ready to experience the miraculous, join us at the Healing School. Let God's healing power wash over you, making you whole once again. The path to healing starts with a simple step of faith. For more information or to contact us directly, please call: UK: +44 207 738 3668 US: +1 347 708 1449 Together, let us embrace the power of healing and witness the transformative miracles that await us at the Healing School. Read the full article

[lonleylucy]

I can’t believe I had my emergency hydrocephalus vp shunt surgery number 2 Newley 5 years ago now seems like yesterday still haunts my memory. Blacked out for 3 days didn’t eat didn’t drink slept day and night until we realised something wasn’t right. My shunt from birth had blocked and my brain was full of fluid. By the time I arrived to hospital on day 3 I was dying according to doctors and they said if I didn’t come in when I did I would of been dead the next day and that just scares me. It started off as a migrain I have had before can’t stand without throwing up head throbbing so hard you want to pass out you need total darkness. No panadole or any meds will work… I was like that for 3 days but didn’t know it was 3 days. So I had to have emergency surgery and they were not sure I was going to make it and if I did make it I might come out disabled well I showed them. I came out alive knew everyone’s name still no loss besides some memory and my handwriting was actually better? So have had 2 surgery in my life time for hydrocephalus. I hope I won’t need anymore in my life time but my head sure does remind me that it can happen at any time. #hydocephalus #hydrocephalusawareness #hydrocephaluswarrior #vpshunt #vpshuntsurgery #vpshuntlife #melbourne #australia #blogger #scar #stvincenthospital thank you @stvincentsmelbourne for saving my life in 2018 without you I wouldn’t be here today (at Camberwell, Victoria) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn_7_x9PYMs/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[uvskincancerclinic]

Skin Checks

UV Skin Cancer Clinic is a professional, highly regarded skin cancer clinic that specialises in skin cancer awareness and detection, digital mole imaging and mole mapping, medical skin checks and skin cancer treatment and solutions. Our Skin Cancer Doctors are experts in assessing your skin and through a physical examination, finding the best Skin Cancer Treatment for you. All of our doctors have undertaken training in skin cancer medicine and skin checks. We own and use advanced full body scanning technology to ensure patients get the best treatment possible. Located in Melbourne’s South East, our Sandrinham clinic is easily accessible to those located around Burwood, Bayside areas, Brighton, Hampton, Camberwell, Glen Iris Canterbury and Surrounding suburbs.

[veincareau]

Varicose Veins

Despite cause for concern with varicose veins, modern laser vein removal has made a big difference. Even so, experienced vein doctors who specialize in varicose vein treatment still encourage patients to follow a few proven tips for preventing vein problems in the first place. Here are the top four tips for varicose veins prevention as recommended by Vein Care vein clinics in Melbourne.

Varicose veins symptoms can be more severe than the slight discomfort experienced with reticular and spider veins. For example, chronic aches, swelling, and discoloration are all possibilities with varicose veins, which explains the importance of proper varicose veins prevention techniques.

While there are several cutting-edge options for varicose vein removal in Melbourne with high success rates and minimal downtime, it’s still best to try and avoid this vein condition altogether. Suppose bulging veins in your legs, arms, or face make you feel self-conscious or even physically uncomfortable. In that case, your local vein clinic can help with both varicose veins prevention and varicose vein removal in Melbourne.  Speak to Vein Care about varicose veins prevention and how to address bulging veins in legs – call 1300 568 676 today or get in touch online.

About Vein Care

Vein Care is Melbourne’s trusted provider of innovative treatments for abnormal and varicose veins. Our varicose veins treatment in Melbourne is second to none, as we use cutting-edge techniques to ensure the best medical results for our patients.

Our vein specialists continue to grow and evolve with pioneering treatments for varicose veins in Melbourne, including sclerotherapy, ultrasound guided sclerotherapy, endovenous laser treatment (EVLT), and ambulatory phlebectomy.

We have three vein clinics in Melbourne conveniently located in Camberwell, Boronia and Sydenham, making it easy to connect with an experienced vein doctor wherever you are in the city. Next time you need vein removal in Melbourne, remember our dedicated vein specialists can help with a wide range of medical solutions and high-quality yet comfortable care.

Laser vein removal: https://www.veincare.com.au/endovenous-laser-treatment-evlt/

Varicose veins symptoms: https://www.veincare.com.au/deep-vein-thrombosis-symptoms-what-to-look-for/

Varicose veins prevention techniques: https://www.veincare.com.au/top-4-professional-tips-for-varicose-veins-prevention/

Varicose veins treatment: https://www.veincare.com.au/varicose-vein-treatments/

Vein specialists: https://www.veincare.com.au/about/

[bmccamberwell-blog]

Specialized Iron Infusion Clinic Melbourne

To cure the iron deficiency in your body, you just need a sufficient amount of iron intake in your daily routines. Due to these daily work schedules and to maintain the balance of body it is important to increase the hemoglobin level in your body. Iron can be taken either orally or by injecting into the veins. Consulting the professional BMC in Australia in search of Iron Infusion Clinic Melbourne, you are making the right choice. We at our premises have a team of dedicated people to help you with the right advice and the best health-beneficial practices. Therefore, you can consult us anytime and book the appointments when you are comfortable. Make sure to leave your feedback for our better performance in the future.

[justforbooks]

Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr., commonly known as Buzz Aldrin, was born on January 20, 1930. He is an American former astronaut, engineer and fighter pilot. Aldrin made three spacewalks as pilot of the 1966 Gemini 12 mission, and as the lunar module pilot on the 1969 Apollo 11 mission, he and mission commander Neil Armstrong were the first two humans to land on the Moon.

Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Aldrin graduated third in the class of 1951 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was commissioned into the United States Air Force, and served as a jet fighter pilot during the Korean War. He flew 66 combat missions and shot down two MiG-15 aircraft.

After earning a Sc.D. degree in astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Aldrin was selected as a member of NASA's Astronaut Group 3, making him the first astronaut with a doctoral degree. His doctoral thesis was Line-of-Sight Guidance Techniques for Manned Orbital Rendezvous, earning him the nickname "Dr. Rendezvous" from fellow astronauts. His first space flight was in 1966 on Gemini 12 during which he spent over five hours on extravehicular activity. Three years later, Aldrin set foot on the Moon at 03:15:16 on July 21, 1969 (UTC), nineteen minutes after Armstrong first touched the surface, while command module pilot Michael Collins remained in lunar orbit. A Presbyterian elder, Aldrin became the first person to hold a religious ceremony on the Moon when he privately took communion.

Upon leaving NASA in 1971, Aldrin became Commandant of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. He retired from the Air Force in 1972, after 21 years of service. His autobiographies Return to Earth (1973), and Magnificent Desolation (2009), recount his struggles with clinical depression and alcoholism in the years after leaving NASA. He continued to advocate for space exploration, particularly a human mission to Mars, and developed the Aldrin cycler, a special spacecraft trajectory that makes travel to Mars more efficient in regard to time and propellant. He has been accorded numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969.

Bibliography

Aldrin, Edwin E. Jr. 1970. "Footsteps on the Moon". Edison Electric Institute Bulletin. Vol. 38, No. 7, pp. 266–272.

Armstrong, Neil; Michael Collins; Edwin E. Aldrin; Gene Farmer; and Dora Jane Hamblin. 1970. First on the Moon: A Voyage with Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. Boston: Little, Brown.

Aldrin, Buzz and Wayne Warga. 1973. Return to Earth. New York: Random House.

Aldrin, Buzz and Malcolm McConnell. 1989. Men from Earth. New York: Bantam Books.

Aldrin, Buzz and John Barnes. 1996. Encounter with Tiber. London: Hodder & Stoughton.

Aldrin, Buzz and John Barnes. 2000. The Return. New York: Forge.

Aldrin, Buzz and Wendell Minor. 2005. Reaching for the Moon. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.

Aldrin, Buzz and Ken Abraham. 2009. Magnificent Desolation: The Long Journey Home from the Moon. New York: Harmony Books.

Aldrin, Buzz and Wendell Minor. 2009. Look to the Stars. Camberwell, Vic.: Puffin Books.

Aldrin, Buzz and Leonard David. 2013. Mission to Mars: My Vision for Space Exploration. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Books.

Aldrin, Buzz and Marianne Dyson. 2015. Welcome to Mars: Making a Home on the Red Planet. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Children's Books.

Aldrin, Buzz and Ken Abraham. 2016. No Dream Is Too High: Life Lessons From a Man Who Walked on the Moon. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Books.

Aldrin was awarded the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) in 1969 for his role as lunar module pilot on Apollo 11. He was awarded an oak leaf cluster in 1972 in lieu of a second DSM for his role in both the Korean War and in the space program, and the Legion of Merit for his role in the Gemini and Apollo programs. During a 1966 ceremony marking the end of the Gemini program, Aldrin was awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal by President Johnson at LBJ Ranch. He was awarded the NASA Distinguished Service Medal in 1970 for the Apollo 11 mission. Aldrin was one of ten Gemini astronauts inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame in 1982. He was also inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 1993, the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2000, and the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2008.

The Toy Story character Buzz Lightyear was named in honor of Buzz Aldrin.

In 1999, while celebrating the 30th anniversary of the lunar landing, Vice-President Al Gore, who was also the vice-chancellor of the Smithsonian Institution's Board of Regents, presented the Apollo 11 crew with the Smithsonian Institution's Langley Gold Medal for aviation. After the ceremony, the crew went to the White House and presented President Bill Clinton with an encased Moon rock. The Apollo 11 crew was awarded the New Frontier Congressional Gold Medal in the Capitol Rotunda in 2011. During the ceremony, NASA administrator Charles Bolden said, "Those of us who have had the privilege to fly in space followed the trail they forged."

The Apollo 11 crew were awarded the Collier Trophy in 1969. The National Aeronautic Association president awarded a duplicate trophy to Collins and Aldrin at a ceremony. The crew was awarded the 1969 General Thomas D. White USAF Space Trophy. The National Space Club named the crew the winners of the 1970 Dr. Robert H. Goddard Memorial Trophy, awarded annually for the greatest achievement in spaceflight. They received the international Harmon Trophy for aviators in 1970, conferred to them by Vice-President Spiro Agnew in 1971. Agnew also presented them the Hubbard Medal of the National Geographic Society in 1970. He told them, "You've won a place alongside Christopher Columbus in American history". In 1970, the Apollo 11 team were co-winners of the Iven C. Kincheloe award from the Society of Experimental Test Pilots along with Darryl Greenamyer who broke the world speed record for piston engine airplanes. For contributions to the television industry, they were honored with round plaques on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In 2001, President George W. Bush appointed Aldrin to the Commission on the Future of the United States Aerospace Industry. Aldrin received the 2003 Humanitarian Award from Variety, the Children's Charity, which, according to the organization, "is given to an individual who has shown unusual understanding, empathy, and devotion to mankind." In 2006, the Space Foundation awarded him its highest honor, the General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award.

Aldrin received honorary degrees from six colleges and universities, and was named as the Chancellor of the International Space University in 2015. He was a member of the National Space Society's Board of Governors, and has served as the organization's chairman. In 2016, his hometown middle school in Montclair, New Jersey, was renamed Buzz Aldrin Middle School. The Aldrin crater on the Moon near the Apollo 11 landing site and Asteroid 6470 Aldrin are named in his honor.

In 2019, Buzz was awarded the Starmus Festival's Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication for Lifetime Achievement.

* Photo Above: Aldrin walks on the surface of the Moon during Apollo 11. Photograph by Neil Armstrong, who can be seen reflected in Aldrin's visor.

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at http://justforbooks.tumblr.com

[alwaysdowntohidewithyou]

“We didn’t name Florence after the Italian Renaissance city but her father’s great aunt, who was a fencing champion. She was born in King’s College Hospital, Camberwell, not far from where we live now. I’d originally moved to London from my native Manhattan in the 1980s to study at the Warburg Institute and, when she was a baby, I was doing a doctorate. She learnt to read at an early age and always seemed to have a book in her hand.

Florence went to Thomas’s school in Battersea because it valued music and drama. They recognised she was quite special and had great intelligence. They also realised she struggled with some basic functions, so we took her to a specialist and, after lots of tests, she was diagnosed with developmental dyspraxia, a nonspecific learning difficulty. It meant she wasn’t limited by conventional boundaries in learning, which made things like exams challenging. It was clear she had a very interesting mind and could see connections that other people don’t.

You always think your child is wonderful on stage, but when Florence sang in her school’s production of Bugsy Malone, parents came up to us and told us how amazing she was. I think that’s when we realised she had a real talent. When Nick and I split up in 1996, it was painful for all concerned. To minimise the impact on the children, we bought a flat round the corner from our house, so for the first four years of the separation we were able to rotate in and out of the family home.

My own fascination with Renaissance art must have had some influence on Florence as she was growing up, but her lyrics are her own creations. She has woven all her experiences into her songs, helped by a wonderful ability to tell a story. From 16, she was determined to be a singer and we helped her as much as we could. I paid for a rented drum kit on my credit card.

When Florence and the Machine toured, Nick had a great time driving them around Europe and, because we were closely involved, we weren’t too nervous. There was also a lot in the newspapers about the decline of Amy Winehouse and I think that served as a warning. Being successful in the music industry is a hard job and Florence recognised that getting drunk before a gig was a disaster, and drinking after one meant you couldn’t get up the next day. So now she doesn’t drink at all on tour.

It’s lovely to have Florence still at home, although her wardrobe now fills the living room as well as her bedroom. The only downside is that I’m constantly tripping over clothing and boots, but that’s a small price to pay.”

-Evelyn Welch, 2012

[primalphysiotherapyau-blog]

The Benefits of Massage Therapy

Whenever you are tired or don't feel well and have no idea what to do so that you get back in the groove, opt for a massage. Though you might find it a bit weird as to why we are recommending a massage out of everything but there is a reason to it. A massage can take away all your stress, tension, and worries. A massage helps you to relax and overcome all pain. It helps you to connect with your inner happiness. You feel good about yourself. When the masseuse is doing the massage he or she will exert pressure on those points of your body that will help to get rid of the pain. The blood flow will increase. Your blood circulation will improve. This will ensure that your face gets that flush, that glow after the massage is over. Massage Camberwell is great not only for getting rid of stress, but a good massage is great in helping you get back in shape. There are many women who just became mothers. For them, a great massage can work wonders to get back in shape. In fact, athletes across the globe depend on a good massage to get rid of the cramped muscles, swollen body parts, and tightened joints. It really helps a lot. Benefits of the Massage: Reduction of Aches and Pains Releasing muscular tension is one of the main reasons pain can be reduced. Also by stimulating the blood flow, fresh nutrients are brought into the area and metabolic wastes are taken away - this too helps to reduce pain. Reestablishing the normal movement of joints will also help to reduce pain. Recovering from Injuries If you have a muscle injury deep tissue massage certainly can play a role in its treatment. Careful application of pressure, articulation of the joints, and encouraging the soft tissue to heal, can be the effect of the treatment. If the injury is old and there is scar tissue, this therapy can help to break up the scar tissue and may help the area to return back to normal functioning.

  Postural Muscle Stiffness Muscle stiffness and tightness is very commonly associated with incorrect posture. When this stiffness persists and becomes chronic, the reduced mobility and any pain or associated discomfort can massively affect the quality of life and your levels of enjoyment. So do consider havening a treatment to help with this type of problem and enjoy the freedom of a better more aligned posture. Reducing Osteoarthritic Pain Pain from osteoarthritis may cause great discomfort, to say the least. In allopathic medicine, it is considered to be a condition to which there is no real cure, but there are many medications that are used, in many different systems of medicine, that are used in this condition. Part of the treatment regimen can include regular massage therapy treatments which can help to preserve joint mobility as well as reduce pain. Reducing Sciatic Pain Problems of the Sciatic nerve lead to pain and can cause tingling sensations and numbness. Irritation or impingement of the sciatic nerve can lead to significant pain and neurological symptoms. Severe sciatica is debilitating. Deep tissue massage by the Primal Physiotherapy Camberwell can help you recover from this condition. Other therapeutic measures will most likely be used as well to help reduce pain and inflammation and treat the underlying cause. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Pain Nerve compression in the wrist can cause high levels of pain as well as numbness. The therapist uses their palms and fingers to manipulate the tissues to help relieve pressure from the nerve to reduce the pain. This type of massage will also help in enhancing the mobility of the wrist. But, make sure that the massage center you are opting for has certified professionals working for them. Many masseuses are willing to come down to your house and carry out with the massage. If you are unable to visit the spa for whatever reason you can book a home session so that you don't miss out on any massage. If you are planning to undergo a massage for any physical ailment we suggest that you have a detailed discussion with your doctor and the physiotherapist. Find out what type of massage are they recommending. Find out if there is any specific clinic that you need to visit for the massage. It is important that you have all the details before you start with the massage. Just the way a good massage helps you to heal and recover, the wrong kind of massage can aggravate the pain. So you need to be careful about what you are opting for. Primal Physiotherapy Camberwell helps guide you through your injury so you can return back to life, work, and exercise pain-free. We work with back pain, shoulder pain, or all types of pain/tightness to get you back to moving freely and smiling again. Located at 782 Burke Rd, Camberwell our gym-based practice has the latest equipment that gives you a fresh approach to enjoying your recovery with an amazing vibrant team. Give us a visit and get back to enjoying your life today.

[camberwellcosmetics]

What Is Botox?

Botox is a popular cosmetic treatment that helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial muscles. It’s a safe and effective option with no downtime, lasting up to six months. However, choosing a qualified practitioner or team like Camberwell Cosmetics is essential to achieve natural-looking results.

What Is Botox Made Of?

Botox is derived from a specially prepared form of Clostridium botulinum, a type of bacteria found in natural environments like soil and lakes.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the muscles. This relaxation prevents the muscles from contracting, which helps smooth out wrinkles.

The amount of Botox injected varies based on the treatment area and brand used, typically ranging from 5 to 150 units per session.

Is Botox Safe?

Yes, Botox is generally safe when administered by a trained professional. However, like any medical procedure, it has potential risks and side effects. A good practitioner will discuss these with you in detail before treatment.

How Should I Prepare for Botox Treatment?

Here are some guidelines to follow before your Botox appointment:

Remove makeup and jewellery from the treatment area.

Clean the skin with soap and water if needed.

Avoid alcohol, coffee, and smoking for 24 hours before your appointment, as these can increase bruising.

Stay away from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen for two days prior to your treatment to reduce bleeding and bruising.

What Should I Expect During Botox Treatment?

During the treatment, you can expect:

A numbing cream may be applied to the injection sites to minimize discomfort.

You might notice small red dots where the injections were made, which can last from a few hours to up to two weeks. These usually don’t interfere with daily activities unless they bother you.

Are There Any Side Effects of Botox Injections?

While side effects are rare, they can occur after treatment. Possible side effects include:

Headache: This is the most common side effect and usually resolves within a few days.

Severe headache: If headaches persist beyond a week, let your doctor know.

Swelling around the eyes: This may happen within one hour to two days after injections and typically resolves within two weeks.

Allergic reactions: A small number of people may experience redness, burning, itching, or swelling at the injection site. Contact your practitioner if you have a severe reaction.

Droopy eyelids: This can occur if Botox is injected in the forehead area.

Dry mouth: More common in men, this usually lasts a few days.

Dry eyes: You may need eye drops if your eyes feel irritated.

If you experience difficulty breathing or double vision after your injections, seek medical help immediately.

Conclusion

Botox can be an effective way to smooth out wrinkles, but it’s essential to understand the procedure, its effects, and the importance of choosing a skilled practitioner. Always consult with a qualified professional to ensure the best results. Book your Botox Treatment Consultation Today with Camberwell Cosmetic. Our state-of-the-art treatment room is located in Melbourne’s south-east, where our clients will receive a premium service by our friendly and highly passionate team, who take extreme pride in their work. We always ensure that every treatment is provided specifically to your needs and requirements, so that every client is left well informed and confident that they are being well looked after. At Camberwell Health Skin Cosmetics, we pride ourselves on providing world-class skin care treatments like Botox Treatment in Camberwell that are tailored specifically to what our clients need. We make sure that each of our clients feel welcome and comfortable in our service, and receive only the highest standard of treatment.

Our team is highly skilled, qualified and adept at providing comprehensive care for all clients who walk through our doors. We provide personalized treatments, tailored to your clinical needs and goals.

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At the Healing School: Testimony of Healing from Heart Disease

Testimony of Healing from Heart Disease Imagine living with a debilitating heart condition, constantly being told by doctors that there is little hope for a cure. That was the reality for one woman who suffered from mitral valve prolapse, a condition that affects the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. Her life was filled with uncertainty and fear, until she attended a special Friday service led by a renowned prophet. As she sat among the congregation, listening to the prophet's words of hope and healing, something extraordinary happened. The prophet spoke directly to her, addressing her condition and assuring her that God's healing power was present in that very moment. A wave of laughter filled her heart, and she couldn't help but join in. It was a moment of pure joy and release. After the service, the woman decided to take a leap of faith and trust in the prophet's words. She made the decision to pursue further medical evaluation, despite the discouraging prognosis she had previously received. Three weeks later, she found herself sitting in the office of a heart specialist, anxiously awaiting the results. What she heard next was nothing short of miraculous. The heart specialist confirmed that her condition had inexplicably improved. The once-faulty mitral valve was now functioning normally, as if the disease had never existed. The doctors were astounded and had no medical explanation for this sudden turnaround. This woman's story is just one of many testimonies of healing that have emerged from the special Friday services led by the prophet. Each week, people from all walks of life gather at the Healing School, eager to experience the transformative power of God's healing touch. Join Us Every Friday at the Healing School If you are seeking healing or know someone who is in need, we invite you to join us every Friday at the Healing School. Located at the Kingdom Temple on 93 Camberwell Station Road in London, this sacred space is where miracles happen. At the Healing School, you will be immersed in an atmosphere of faith and expectation. The prophet, guided by divine inspiration, delivers powerful messages of hope and restoration. Through his prayers, individuals are touched by God's healing power, both physically and emotionally. It is important to note that the prophet requests your prayer request as a point of contact. By submitting your prayer request, you open the door for God's intervention in your life. You can easily submit your prayer request by visiting our website: Submit Your Prayer Request. Experience the Miraculous If you are unable to attend the Healing School in person, we offer a live broadcast of the Friday services. Join us every Friday at 7:30 pm UK time, and be a part of the incredible healing testimonies that unfold within the Kingdom Temple. God's healing power knows no boundaries. It is not limited by time, distance, or circumstance. Whether you are in London, New York, or anywhere else in the world, you can access the healing touch of God. If you are ready to experience the miraculous, join us at the Healing School. Let God's healing power wash over you, making you whole once again. The path to healing starts with a simple step of faith. For more information or to contact us directly, please call: UK: +44 207 738 3668 US: +1 347 708 1449 Together, let us embrace the power of healing and witness the transformative miracles that await us at the Healing School. Read the full article