But evenings are so very memorable when they don't go according to plan!

[ Sholmes carefully facilitates the bat handoff, watching how van Zieks handles the creature with surprising care. So that's how one holds a bat correctly. He'll keep that in mind for the next time. (And yes, there's a non-zero chance there will be a next time.) ]

But I'll respect your ultimatum. Which proper drink do you recommend? [ Sholmes taps his nail to the glass of his existing abomination. ] And if you need to clear a clogged drain, this concoction would more than suffice.