Chapter 105: Sherlock, the One-Eyed Arrow God

Accompanied by Sherlock’s roar, Flora strolled in at her leisure.

As soon as she entered, she laughed coquettishly, “So this must be the legendary kingdom’s Arrow God, Sherlock. Seeing is truly believing.”

Sherlock was tall and imposing, with a swallow-neck and tiger-like whiskers, carrying the appearance of a middle-aged man. Yet his single eye was filled with the weariness of many years, suggesting he was far older than he looked.

Seeing the newcomer cloaked head to toe, revealing only fragments of herself, Sherlock frowned.

“Who are you?” Sherlock’s voice rang out like a resounding bell.

“I am their leader. You may call me the Queen Bee. I also take care of your business clients. Your reputation in the shadowy mercenary world is impeccable. There’s no need to tarnish it over a trivial matter,” Flora said methodically.

“Hmph. This is the first time I’ve encountered such secretive clients. And the first time I’ve dealt with a target so indecisive. You have no idea how many times that fellow went back and forth strengthening his defenses today—it’s almost up to King Eland’s security level. Your intel never mentioned his paranoid delusions. Do you know how much this complicates my operation?” Sherlock’s tone grew louder, filled with resentment as he spoke of Peter.

Flora, who had already received the news, was troubled. Heaven only knew what had triggered Peter. She felt the situation was slipping beyond her control, strengthening her resolve to eliminate him.

After a brief pause, Flora said, “Very well, let’s call it our oversight. But considering the old man’s courage to attempt an assassination on the kingdom’s viscount decades ago, such minor difficulties shouldn’t faze you.”

Sherlock snorted coldly but, touched by the mention of his past glories, his expression softened slightly.

Seizing the moment, Flora continued, “Regardless of the outcome, the payment will be made in full. And if successful, we have a special gift for you—two tickets to the Victoria Federation obtained through the Dark Moon Circus…”

At this, Sherlock’s single eye widened. He stepped forward, fixing Flora with a piercing gaze. His voice deepened, “You’ve been investigating me?” His whiskers bristled like a fierce tiger ready to pounce, the aura of a Silver Knight radiating from him, weighing heavily on everyone in the room.

“Heh,” Flora laughed lightly, unfazed. “Is an investigation even necessary? With our organization’s reach over every inch of the capital, what could possibly be unknown to us? Besides, Mr. Sherlock, your desire to purchase tickets to the Victoria Isles is hardly a secret.”

Before Sherlock could respond, his ever-present companion, a young woman named Vivi, interjected, “Oh? Sounds like you think you’re even more impressive than the Azure Phoenix Society!”

Flora paid no mind, replying politely, “I wouldn’t dare claim to rival the Azure Phoenix Society’s headquarters in the Principality of Sain. But as for their little fish operating in the capital, if I wished, I could wipe them out within three days.”

A trace of pride finally crept into her tone.

Sherlock shot a warning glance at Vivi, silencing her. He then regarded Flora silently for a moment before declaring, “Then it’s settled!”

He prepared to take his leave with Vivi.

Flora rose, escorting them to the door while saying, “It seems we’ll soon witness the Kingdom’s Arrow God in action. Speaking of legendary archery, the Charles family among our Four Great Houses is also famed for their marksmanship. Their Eagle Eye technique bears a striking resemblance to your own mastery…”

Sherlock halted abruptly and turned, eyes blazing as he fixed Flora with a steady gaze. After a long pause, he said, “Hmph! There are many renowned archery styles in the world; it isn’t only the Charles family. In Sain Principality alone, there’s the secret techniques ‘Chasing Wind’ and ‘Swift Lightning.’ In the Victoria Federation, even more formidable skills like ‘Sun Piercer’ and ‘Moon Chaser’ circulate.”

Flora smiled. “True enough. But I believe the Charles family would hold the old master in great esteem. If they ever met, it would surely be a case of meeting too late.”

Sherlock’s expression shifted slightly. “You know full well I’m a wanted man. Still, you think we’re not conspicuous enough? Then by all means, go report me now. You might even collect a royal bounty.”

At this, Vivi narrowed her eyes and placed her hands on her hips, ready to spring into action.

Flora suddenly felt as if a venomous snake had locked onto her. She knew the warnings had been delivered, and further provocation would be unwise. So she smiled brightly and said, “I wouldn’t dare! I’m waiting for the good news of your success. I promise, once the job is done, payment and tickets will be delivered to you promptly, down to the last coin.”

Sherlock had no desire to linger any longer with this woman. He rasped, “Feel free to try withholding payment,” and left with Vivi.

Flora watched their departing figures, shaking her head with a wry smile. After all, this was merely a transaction, not something she controlled personally. To ensure smooth proceedings, a firm reminder of the consequences of breach was necessary—at least enough for them to weigh the risks.

Flora sincerely hoped they would succeed. Otherwise, she’d have to sacrifice one of the first-class worker bees closest to Peter to deal with him. Each worker bee was handpicked and meticulously trained; she never let them be wasted lightly.

Back at their lodgings, Sherlock stood by the window, gazing blankly at the night sky.

Vivi carefully placed a cup of hot tea on the table, then tiptoed behind Sherlock. She wrapped her arms around his broad waist, resting gently against him, and asked softly, “What’s on your mind?”

Sherlock’s rough hand grasped Vivi’s delicate fingers, giving a gentle squeeze. “Nothing. Just some old memories.”

He said no more, and Vivi didn’t press further. She knew her beloved, despite the decades between them, often showed a vulnerability and sensitivity unbefitting his age. She indulged him in this and never pried into his past.

Sometimes she found it incredible that this man, over forty years her senior, was a novice in matters of the heart. It made their age-gap romance feel more like a sibling relationship.

Now, she settled into the role of his elder sister, quietly holding him close, warming his heart with her embrace.

Sherlock remained silent, eyes still fixed on the night sky…