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Chapter 3: Shadows of Suspicion

-Sherlock POV-

Five months had passed since Sherlock had assumed the role of Professor Holmer at the University of Sheffield. During this time, he had tirelessly gathered clues, questioned students, and meticulously observed the activities within the hostels. Yet, he had not managed to uncover any solid leads that could point him directly to the human trafficking racket he was determined to expose. Frustration gnawed at him, but he refused to let it deter him from his mission.

As the rest of the class dispersed, Sherlock noticed the flicker of interest in Avanthika's eyes, the subtle signs of a budding infatuation. His keen observation skills didn't miss a beat as he recognized an opportunity to potentially leverage her attraction for his own advantage. His mind automatically devised a plan to exploit this connection and extract valuable information from her.

With a calculated smile playing on his lips, Sherlock gestured for Avanthika to remain behind. He adjusted his tone to a slightly warmer and more approachable demeanor, knowing that a friendly approach could encourage her to open up.

"Ah, Avanthika, I wanted to take a moment to discuss your progress in the class," Sherlock began, maintaining a professional distance while still acknowledging her presence. "I've noticed your keen interest in the subject matter, and your insights have been quite intriguing."

Sherlock paused for a moment, allowing the weight of his words to sink in before continuing. "I believe your unique perspective and observations could be valuable in furthering our understanding of the material. I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the assignments and any aspects that have piqued your interest."

While Sherlock didn't aim to foster a personal connection, he understood the power of creating a favorable environment to encourage others to share information. By being more approachable and showing a genuine interest in Avanthika's contributions, he hoped to draw out the insights she may possess without crossing any personal boundaries.

Avanthika was indeed quite torn. While she appreciated her professor's genuine interest in her academic journey, she knew this was not his lookout at the moment. She tried to give a concise and useful answer so she could actually move on to find what he wanted to know "Professor Holmer, thank you for asking. The assignments have been challenging, but I'm very intrigued with the class. The intriguing nature of the world wide web and the various layers of security associated with it is quite brilliant to learn about. I'm working with Hassya on the assignments."

Sherlock nodded, mentally taking note of the mention of Hassya. "That's excellent to hear. It's always beneficial to have a keen interest in the subject you are perusing. How is Hassya faring in the class? Is she finding it equally challenging?"

Avanthika sighed. Professor Holmer seemed determined to beat ahead with the small talk. She shook her head and concentrated on the question about Hassya, her expression mirroring a mixture of concern and empathy. "Hassya finds the subject matter quite intimidating. Programming has never been her strong suit, but she's determined to overcome her struggles. I've been assisting her as much as I can, trying to simplify concepts and work through the assignments together."

Sherlock allowed a faint smile to grace his lips. Avanthika did seem impatient today but he could not let that keep him from asking about the gardens. Maybe acknowledging Avanthika's dedication to helping her friend would put her at ease. "Your support for Hassya is commendable, Avanthika. It's the mark of a true friend. I hope both of you can make progress together."

Satisfied with the amount of small talk and trying to get to the point before Avanthika became either too suspicious or flustered, Sherlock sought a way to ease the conversation toward the topic of the gardeners without raising suspicion. "By the way, Avanthika, I remember you mentioned something about wandering around the hostels during our previous conversation. Is that still a habit of yours? Have you noticed anything peculiar or any changes in the hostel environment?"

Avanthika's eyes sparkled with intrigue, finally realizing the ulterior motive her professor had behind his seemingly innocent questions. "Well, Professor Holmer, I must admit that my habit of wandering around has allowed me to observe a few interesting things, including the gardeners. The number of gardeners is still quite absurd, and they seem to be present at odd hours as well."

Sherlock's curiosity peaked as Avanthika's response aligned with his suspicions but he could see Avanthika had caught something in his previous question. He decided to ignore that at the moment delve deeper, hoping to uncover more crucial information. Honestly this charade has been going on for long enough! "Fascinating. Could you elaborate on what you have observed about the gardeners? Any particular details or behaviors that caught your attention?" He tried to feign an air of nonchalance.

Avanthika's smile grew mischievous, and she leaned forward slightly. "You know, Professor Holmer, while observing the gardeners, I've also indulged in reading detective stories, especially those by Dr. John Watson. It's intriguing how keen observation and deduction can solve even the most complex mysteries. I find those stories to be quite a bit more intriguing than the gardeners. Have you read them? The famous detective after all could almost be your namesake wouldn't you say? Professor Holmer, Professor Holmes, sounds hardly different right?"

Sherlock's inner frustration grew as Avanthika hinted at her own awareness of his true identity. He cursed Watson in his mind for his influence on readers. Avanthika's smirk only added to his discomfort. "So, you've figured it out, Avanthika. I suppose there's no use in hiding it any longer. Yes, I am Sherlock Holmes," he admitted, his tone tinged with a mix of resignation and curiosity. "Though, I must correct you on one point. It's Mr. Sherlock Holmes, not Professor Holmes."

Avanthika's smirk widened into a grin. "Ah, Mr. Holmes, it's a pleasure to finally meet the legendary detective in person. I must say, your teaching style has given you away. Your penchant for deduction and your unique way of observing people and situations, it all falls in line with what I've read about you."

Sherlock couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Avanthika's astuteness even while he shook his head in frustration at his cover being blown. He leaned in closer, their conversation now veering into a more confidential territory. "Very well, Avanthika. Since you've uncovered my true identity, I must confess that I am not here solely as a professor which I am sure you gathered. I have been investigating a human trafficking racket disguised within the university."

Avanthika's eyes widened, a mixture of shock and concern. "Human trafficking? That's quite a scary matter, Mr. Holmes. Are you sure? How did you even come to suspect such activities?"

Sherlock's gaze sharpened as he explained, choosing his words carefully. A student knowingly acting as a spy could indeed be what he needed to crack the case. They would never suspect a student and Avanthika did not seem entirely foolish given she had figured out his identity. "I was initially roped in by the Government who have been suspecting such a racket for quite some time now-I believe you can guess who. Unfortunately having to teach full time has not been giving me a lot of time to explore the clues I have found. When I first started, I noticed anomalies in the number of gardeners present on the campus. Your observation about the gardeners being too many corroborates with my own observations. Additionally, I'm not sure if you have noticed but plants keep moving all over the place in the hostel. I have been unable to investigate further unfortunately which is why I am asking if you have noticed anything new."

Avanthika pondered for a moment, recalling her encounters with the gardeners and the peculiarities she had observed. "Well, Professor Holmer, sorry, Mr. Holmes, I have noticed that the presence of gardeners continues even during the night. It struck me as rather unusual that they would be tending to plants at odd hours. In fact, on several occasions, I have seen them moving grown plants during the night."

Sherlock's eyes lit up with intrigue at this revelation. The fact that the gardeners were active at night added another layer of mystery to the case. "That's quite interesting, Avanthika. It seems they are going to great lengths to carry out their activities covertly. Anything else that caught your attention?" Dropping the chit chat completely now that his cover was blown.

Avanthika furrowed her brow, recalling another distinct detail. "Yes, Mr. Holmes. I've noticed that there seem to be two distinct groups among the gardeners. One group appears friendly enough, interacting with the students and maintaining a relatively amicable demeanor. However, they often seem on edge, as if constantly alert or wary of something. On the other hand, there's another group that keeps to themselves, avoiding interactions and maintaining a more guarded and gruff disposition."

Sherlock's mind whirred with possibilities as he absorbed Avanthika's words. The differentiation between the two groups of gardeners piqued his curiosity. It hinted at a potential division of roles or responsibilities within the trafficking racket. "Thank you, Avanthika. Your observations are invaluable. The distinction between the two groups is a significant detail that might hold the key to unraveling this mystery further."

Sherlock leaned back, his gaze intensifying. He tried to think of a way in which he could have this girl spy for him. A constant spy at the hostel would be useful. Maybe flattering would work? She seemed infatuated with him a bit anyways. "Avanthika, your keen observations and familiarity with the hostel environment make you a valuable asset in this investigation. I need you to keep a watchful eye and report any suspicious activities or individuals you come across. Document any additional details about the gardeners, their interactions, or anything out of the ordinary."

Avanthika nodded, her determination evident. "Consider it done, Mr. Holmes. I'll be your eyes and ears within the hostels. Although I might require payment in the form of an autograph from the famous Doctor, but sure I can wait with that." She added the last part with a hint of mischief back in her voice.

Sherlock couldn't help but crack a small smile at Avanthika's playful remark. Her wit and familiarity with his adventures amused him. "Very well, Avanthika," he replied, his voice laced with a hint of amusement. "Consider the autograph a promise, but only if you prove to be a valuable asset in this investigation. We'll save the fanfare for when we've uncovered the truth behind these suspicious gardeners."

He paused for a moment, his keen eyes locked onto Avanthika's determined expression. A flicker of guilt briefly passed through Sherlock's mind as he realized the potential risks involved in involving her further. Nevertheless, he maintained his composed exterior and offered a slight nod.

"But do remember, Avanthika," Sherlock stated matter-of-factly, "this is a dangerous game we're playing. The world of crime is treacherous, and your safety should be a priority. Proceed with caution and discretion. If you happen to notice anything out of the ordinary or encounter any suspicious individuals, report back to me immediately. We'll work together to expose the truth and put an end to this despicable racket."

His words were tinged with a sense of detached concern, an acknowledgment that her involvement came with risks. Sherlock was not one to wear his emotions on his sleeve, but he couldn't completely ignore the nagging voice of reason within him, personified by his inner John. While he may not openly admit it, he understood the need to ensure Avanthika's well-being she was his student after all.

Avanthika nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of excitement and determination. "You have my word, Mr. Holmes. I'll be vigilant and provide you with any information I uncover. We'll bring these criminals to justice."