Yes, his military career was relatively short. I wonder how long he had the habit of keeping his handkerchief in his sleeve until he adapted back to civilian ways.

Like Sherlock fans like to search for hidden messages in the various aspects of the show, the Canon inconsistencies make me tick. I do know that they were unintentional (and perhaps it’s a blessing that ACD took Holmes lightly, for Holmes stories are very easy to read, unlike some other things penned by ACD). Anyway, it’s tremendous fun to build theories and headcanons basing on those inconsistencies. Maybe someday I’ll explore this particular period as a flashback.

I like your idea of the supernatural bend! It makes me think of A Study in Emerald ‘verse :)