I see waltz and my eyes zoom in. What's a single-stick waltz about? (also your summary of london's achilles sounds awesome)
Thank you! and lmaooo. i love this one. the subtitle of this in my doc is "the inherent eroticism of dueling"
this started as a series of aesthetics: Holmes teaching Watson some single-stick for self defense. The click-clacking of polished sticks, Holmes's mouth pulled into a smirk, one arm tucked primly behind him as Watson concentrates, brow furrowed, a bit of sweat on his brow, down to only his vest and cotton shirt.
(Then it grew into something a little bigger, a scene early in their partnership as Watson learns more about Holmes. his abilities, to wonder about his own future as a companion. What does it mean, for Holmes to teach him? How does Watson feel?)
Watson uses his non-dominant arm so his shoulder does not hinder him, and this leads to a frustration that has him clenching his jaw a bit as he fails to counter Holmes's easy and gracefulābut quick, fierceāstrikes. They've pushed all the furniture in the sitting room to the side to create a sort of arena, and Watson would almost find it absurd, boys playing with sticks, if it weren't for the dangerous elegance of Holmes's movements. As a doctor, he has loathed that his service weapon can so easily lead to mortal wounds when mere sublimation could suffice, and this style, non-lethal in most occasions, sacrifices none of its power in a fight.Ā
And Holmes has this air about him. A glass-smooth focus, hewn, layered beneath his amusement and mesmerizing control. He will never learn the limits of this man, it seems; they extend onward in so many unexpected directions. Chemistry, ancient history, and now single-stick fighting and boxing. He is remarkable. Watson can hardly believe Holmes considers his training necessary and would waste an afternoon instructing him (or more, as he has promised), but he can't help but feel humbled by the offer. Holmes has offered to teach him, not just to mock his amateurish swinging, but because he believes Watson is worth the time, the investment of his eclectic masteries. Watson would ask why if he wasn't so thrilled to be chosen, because if Holmes wants to train him in his methods, then...surely, this partnership is long-term. The idea bolsters him, and he grins when he fails a riposte. The schoolboy fumbling is worth it, then. If not to learn some skills to protect himself and Holmes in the street then...at least, he can be this. A partner willing to learn.
Eventually, he succeeds in a parry, striking a light hit on Holmes's left knuckles. Holmes hisses air through his teeth, but his eyes brighten. āExcellent, Watson.ā And Watson feels a sudden heat, altogether different than the warmth of exertion.
