Prologue

'I'm here to talk to you about the avengers initiative.'
Sherlock stretched his legs out on the arms of his couch. 'No.'
Nick Fury didn't move. 'Sir, I would like it if you'd let me finish.'
'I don't usually let people. I don't see why I should start now.'
'I'm in the government.'
Sherlock took his legs down from the armrest and smiled quickly. 'My brother is the government. I'm sure you're familiar with Mycroft?'
'I've heard of him, but that's not my government. I work for the American secret service.'
Sherlock stood up and walked up to the man. He observed him. 'I know. I mean, an idiot could hear it from your accent, but-'
'Mister Holmes, I assure you, you would never be bored.' Fury knew that one was only for emergencies, but the was starting to get annoyed with this man very fast. Rumour said that he wasn't the only one.
Sherlock stared at him icily. It took way too long before he broke the silence. 'Fine. Tell me. But don't bore me.'
Fury had won right there. 'Years ago we, meaning us from the American secret service, had the idea to compose a team of remarkable people, to help people when they were in danger. And you sir, are quite remarkable, a reliable source told me.'
'Who?'
'I believe I heard it from your Queen.'
Sherlock smiled slightly. 'Ah yes, that was a particularly interesting case. But you've managed it with your team so far, so what's changed now? Has the villain suddenly gotten smart? Can't your team of people handle it?' He didn't give Fury time to answer. 'No, that's not quite it, is it? The villain wouldn't suddenly change his style that much. So he's working together with someone else. But I'm sure there's plenty of clever people in America, so you had a special reason to come to me-Oh!' He grinned. 'Oh, yes. Very good. You knew that I'd accept that one, didn't you?'
Fury didn't give anything away. 'Sir, I'd like to be sure that you think what I hope you're thinking.'
'I'm thinking Moriarty.'
'Oh, you are good.'