CHAPTER 18

Satina followed the system's guidance to a store that sold various bowls.As she entered, a young woman greeted her warmly."Welcome! Feel free to look around, and if there's anything you're looking for, just let me know."There was no need to search extensively.As soon as she stepped inside, a large system window appeared before her.[You have discovered a jewel containing sacred power!][Destroying the jewel will grant you the 'Purification' skill.]Satina's gaze lingered on the sapphire necklace that the shopkeeper was wearing.It didn't seem expensive, but it looked like an old piece."Excuse me, do you happen to sell that necklace?""This necklace?""Yes, it's so beautiful that I really want it."The shopkeeper looked troubled as she replied, "Oh, I'm sorry, but this necklace isn't for sale.""Really? I don't care how much it costs.At that moment, Hazzle, who had been standing quietly nearby with his hat pulled down, couldn't hold back any longer and interrupted their conversation."Uh, excuse me! I really, really need that necklace. Is there any way you could make an exception? Or if not the necklace, just the jewel on it... I'll pay whatever it costs!""Pardon?""I have my reasons too! Please, I beg you!"The shopkeeper hesitated, taken aback by Hazzle's desperate plea. After a moment, she spoke reluctantly."I'm sorry. If it were anything else, maybe... But this necklace was a gift from my late husband.""Oh, I'm sorry for your loss."Satina's gentle words brought a soft smile to the shopkeeper's face."It's okay. It's been a long time. My husband isn't with me anymore, but this little one here has been keeping me company."The shopkeeper lovingly petted the dog lying on the floor.The large yellow dog sprang to its feet, sensing the sadness in its owner, and affectionately licked her cheek."Hey, hey! That tickles!""Woof!""What a cute dog!""Isn't he? He's not just cute—he's smart and sweet too. When my husband first brought him home, he was so small he could fit in the palm of my hand. I can't believe how big he's grown."She stroked the dog fondly before continuing."Anyway, I'm afraid selling the necklace isn't an option. It's not worth much, but it holds precious memories I can't replace."With no other choice, Satina and her companions left the store without asking further.Outside the shop, the three of them gathered to discuss their next move."I think it's best to be honest about our situation and ask for the necklace directly," Katan suggested.Satina nodded. "Yeah, she seems kind enough. If we explain things, she might be willing to give it to us."But Hazzle looked horrified."Are you crazy? What if she tells the temple? If the temple finds out, it's over for me and my comrades!""Do you have a better idea?" Katan asked.After a moment of agonized thought, Hazzle mumbled, "What if... we steal it?""Are you serious?""I don't want to steal it! But what other choice do we have?"While listening to the others argue, Satina checked the quest window.[Help Rina and obtain the sacred jewel.] She glanced up at the shop's sign: "Rina's Bowl Shop"It confirmed what she suspected—the shopkeeper's name was Rina.In situations like this during her past gameplay, persistence had often opened new paths. Building rapport by visiting the NPC several times sometimes unlocks new opportunities.Just as Hazzle was about to suggest an outrageous plan—"So while she's distracted, you grab her, and I'll—"Satina cut him off."No, we're not doing that.""What?""Let's try convincing her first. If we give it time, she might change her mind.""As you command," Katan agreed without hesitation.After a brief struggle with himself, Hazzle nodded reluctantly."Alright, I'll go along with your plan."Satina looked at him, slightly stunned.Hazzle pouted at her. "Why are you looking at me like that?""I just didn't expect it, that's all.""Well, I am worried, but... you know more about this stuff than I do." He glanced away awkwardly. "I don't even really understand how that jewel will help you... But you've always taken our side and tried your best to solve our problems, unlike other nobles."He scratched his head, embarrassed."So... I guess I have no choice but to trust you."Whatever else might happen, Satina had certainly earned Hazzle's trust.***Satina began visiting Rina's store daily, carefully observing her behavior.Over time, they grew familiar enough to share tea together, but Rina's resolve remained firm.'Maybe this isn't the right way...' Meanwhile, Satina also visited the underground sewers to finish treating those still suffering from contamination.The rat beast, who had once been wary of her, now greeted her eagerly, their large ears flapping as they ran to meet her."You don't need to greet me every time. I know the way now, so I can come on my own." But Lara, one of the patients she had healed, firmly shook her head."No way! What if you get lost?""That won't happen."With the system guiding her, there was no chance of getting lost. But Lara looked at her with a concerned expression, as if Satina were a helpless child."You don't understand! Do you know how much competition there is to greet you first?""You should rest more," Satina suggested gently."Thanks to you, I'm all better! And you said it's worse to stay in bed when you're not sick anymore!"Lara's determined expression left Satina laughing."Alright, I'll rely on you for now.""Don't worry! Leave it to me!"After checking on the people and monitoring the contaminated areas, Satina met up with Hazzle.Speaking in a hushed tone, Hazzle asked, "How's it going with her? Think she'll give in soon?""She doesn't seem willing to let go of it just yet.""Damn it.""I've been looking for a similar jewel just in case. If it comes to it, we might have to swap the necklace's jewel."Satina spoke as she stared at the Rina's shop.Suddenly, the door to Rina's shop opened, and Rina emerged, looking distraught. Her face was swollen from crying, and in her distress, she had even put her clothes on backward."Rina?""Oh, miss! Please, you have to help me!" Rina cried, clutching Satina's arm."Calm down and tell me what happened. I'll help however I can.""Cookie... Cookie is missing!""Cookie?"Cookie was the big yellow dog Rina had introduced to Satina on her first visit."It's my fault! I didn't check if the door was properly locked. I think he went out last night, but I can't find him anywhere! What if someone took him? They say there are thieves who steal dogs these days."Rina collapsed, sobbing uncontrollably."Don't worry. Cookie is a smart dog. He'll come back soon.""You really think so?""For now, go home and wait. I'll find him for you.""Thank you! You must have servants who can help, right? He's big, yellow, and has a green collar.""I know what Cookie looks like. I've seen him with you every time.""Oh, right... Please, miss, I beg you!"Her desperate eyes filled with hope as she looked at Satina."Without him, I don't know what I'd do. Please... please find him."Satina gently led Lina back into the shop and made sure she drank some warm water to calm down.As Satina stepped outside, a familiar system alert sounded.[Quest updated.][Would you like to check it now?] "Yes," Satina whispered.A system window opened before her.Quest: Find Rina's Dog and Bring Him Back SafelyTime remaining: 10 hours[This is a Time-Limited quest.] [Complete the quest within the given time frame.]***"Are you sure about this?" Katan asked with concern."About what?""Finding a dog in this busy city... It won't be easy."He had a point. The crowded streets, full of people and carriages, made it a daunting task. Even with a head start, finding Cookie within 10 hours seemed nearly impossible.But Satina didn't seem worried at all."Honestly, I'm surprised by how easy this will be," she said with a grin.Katan blinked, confused. "What do you mean?"Satina's smile deepened as she posed a question."Katan, let me ask you this: How do you think Hazzle knew I had his brother with me?"Want To Read Ahead?

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