"A cup of black coffee, please. No sugar."

Mycroft’s voice was detached as he placed his order. The train attendant, having just arranged the newspapers on Mycroft’s table, knew better than to keep one of the most important first-class passengers waiting.

It was unusual for Mycroft to travel personally from London to a remote village for government business. He could have sent one of his loyal subordinates, yet this time, he chose to go himself—not solely for duty, but for a hidden reason: a quiet longing for solitude, a reprieve from the city’s relentless noise and from the world of politics that filled most of his life.

Leaning back against the plush seat, Mycroft held the newspaper, his eyes scanning the print. Yet his mind was only half-engaged; his true focus drifted toward the passing countryside. As the train moved farther from the city’s bustling heart, the world outside transformed into rolling fields and distant villages nestled between hills.

His quiet contemplation was interrupted by someone approaching his seat. Sensing the movement, Mycroft shifted his gaze, his expression as unreadable as ever.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Holmes. I didn’t expect to see you on this train."

The deep, measured voice of The head of British Secret Services Albert Jemes Moriarty filled the space as he halted beside Mycroft’s seat. With a polite, practiced smile, he removed his hat in greeting. Mycroft felt a faint sense of relief—it wasn’t one of those insufferable, self-important nobles, but a man of intellect and competence, someone he respected and knew through his line of his work.

However, Mycroft’s gaze soon drifted to the smaller figure standing beside Albert. It took only a few seconds of sharp observation and recollection for him to recognize the young individual. It was Albert's youngest sibling, Though it was his first time seeing them, his keen memory and extensive knowledge allowed him to deduce their identity almost instantly. Still, none of his thoughts showed on his face—his expression remained as impassive as ever.