After agreeing with the girls, I sped my way to the back of the cave. I didn't spend too long looking before I found a solid black box.
'Task Complete'
'Credits: 72000
System Updating...'
So what the hell am I holding?
I slipped it into my inventory, stretching as Umbra and Efreeta became balls of light once more.
"They made room for me now. Hehe."
Myria was still holding onto me as we all made our way back to town.
---
It took only half as long to return. We had been gone for three weeks, and the guild leader was all too happy to see me, though his mood changed after he found out what happened.
In the end, he gave me forty gold coins. Every single coin for the mission, and I got them all. Though I still have more than that reward.
I started to make my way through town, watching as people walked by. Nearing the inn, I heard a certain distinct sound.
"MONSTER!!"
---
I was doing a simple favor for Becka! How? How did it turn to this?!
The precious necklace Master had given me was dangling in the hands of that merchant from so long ago. He was smiling as the guards began to surround me.
"N-no! You all know me! Why would you?"
"Stupid bitch. Think anyone would care for a nasty creature like yourself?"
"Care for her? Pretty sure I care for her greatly."
Master's voice? Am I hearing things?
---
I came around the corner to see Nera cowering in fear. Her obsidian scales once again showed across her body. She looked stunning, but my face was scowling at all of these people.
I calm walked over to her, placing my hand on her shoulder.
"So you all gang up on a girl, when the culprit of said crime is the man who stole the very necklace she had been carrying for the last month... or do you really want to piss me off?"
One single step. No reaction. Fine, one more with my flames sprouting.
"D-dont come any closer. Guards! Deal with this boy!"
"Welcome back sir!"
The guards gave me a slight bow. They followed the guild leader and knew exactly who I was.
"Can I have the necklace back?"
Nera was pouting beside me. Her eyes glistening with tears.
I held my hand out towards the merchant. He smirked, tucked it into his pocket and began to walk away.
Nope. Nice try, but no.
A quick blade of shadow and gust of wind later, the necklace was back in my hand.
"I don't take it too kindly when people steal my things. Can I get some help with this thief, guards?"
"Wh-what? You can't do this to me! I am a prominent figure of this society! I will end you all!"
And with that, he's gone. I reclasped the necklace around Nera's neck. She instantly reverted to her regular legs, and wrapped her arms around my neck.
"You've been gone too long!"
"Oh she's cute... I can see why you like her."
Myria peeked from around my head and smiled at Nera.
"Ghost?"
Nera looked into my eyes and glared softly.
"You have way too many girls don't you think?"