Fox said, "If I'm not mistaken, that scar on his face is from an injury. Seems like this retired Boogeyman isn't that strong after all. So, he came back to the Continental planning to return to the underworld? If that's the case, I wouldn't mind earning some extra cash. After all..."
Smith grabbed her hand. "See, you're getting ahead of yourself again. The real show hasn't even started."
Eddie approached with a glass of whiskey and a napkin marked with lipstick and an address. "Compliments of the house."
John Wick turned toward Winston, who raised his glass in a silent toast. Taking the hint, John pulled out his phone and a Continental coin. He brought up a photo of the One-Star Dragon Ball. "I want intel on this or anything similar." He slid the coin toward Eddie.
Eddie took the phone, surprised. The Continental's intel network had already been working on Smith Dole's earlier request, yet nothing had come up until now. He pocketed the coin. "Funny coincidence. If this was yesterday, you'd have found nothing."
John frowned. "What do you mean?"
"Today, someone submitted a similar photo and left a request. Said anyone looking for this should come talk to him. He's here—over there." Eddie pointed to Smith Dole's booth.
John froze. This wasn't the kind of lead he expected. He figured the Continental might have some obscure legends—not someone actively involved. After a moment, he turned and walked over.
Fox nudged Smith. "Four million dollars is heading our way."
Smith smiled. Money didn't matter to the Assassins' Brotherhood. Compared to their ancient lineage, wealth was trivial. Even their oldest relics outvalued most nations' treasures.
John reached the table, set his phone down with the Dragon Ball photo. "Eddie said if I wanted info on this, I should talk to you."
Fox looked at the photo, puzzled. Smith chuckled. "Looks like you found the One-Star Ball."
John sat, tension in his voice. "So the legend is true?"
Smith's smile didn't fade. "It's real."
John took a breath. "Thank you. May I ask your name? I'm Jonathan John Wick."
"Smith Dole. This is Fox."
"Mr. Smith, how much do you know about this? Or… do you have more like it? If I wanted one, what would it cost?"
Smith studied him. "We're with the Assassins' Brotherhood. That object is a sacred relic. And John Wick, this isn't the place to discuss such things." He tapped the phone. "Besides, you have more urgent business. Just know—we're watching you."
John hesitated. "I do have something to take care of. When can we talk about the One-Star Ball?"
Smith replied, "Once you've handled your business, come to Room 819 at the Continental. We'll talk."
John nodded and left. He was headed to find Viggo's son, Losef Tarasov.
As he exited, Fox asked, "Smith, what is that One-Star Ball? Why's it our sacred relic? And why are we observing John Wick?"
Smith stood. "I'll explain it all soon. Just keep your face straight. Don't act surprised. As for John—follow him. Let's see what he does."
Fox leaned close, whispering, "I hope this story ends with a surprise. If not… you're dead." She twisted his waist.
"Ah—" Smith winced dramatically. "Move fast, or you'll lose him."
Meanwhile, John drove toward the Red Circle Club, mind racing. He had heard of the Assassins' Brotherhood—a shadow organization even beyond the High Table. They never took contracts. Their members were rumored to be terrifyingly powerful.
But after five years of retirement, John's intel was outdated. Who knew what had changed?
His hand went to the Dragon Ball around his neck. His eyes hardened with resolve.
I will bring you back, Helen.