The Demon

The Rangers could feel the heat long before the demon came into view, but were still surprised that it chose the form of a human. He was well dressed, for a demon at least, and while his long black goat horns were quite visible, he otherwise looked remarkably normal.

"Foul beast, be gone from here!" One of the Rangers shouted, his bow at the ready.

"Calm yourself, pathetic mortal." The demon responded, his voice hoarse but still commanding. "I'm here about stolen property. Where is Syndra Valmaris?"

"You speak so casually of Princess Valmaris? What business could you possibly have with the Princess?"

"Go and ask her. I'll wait here." The demon replied, laughing. He then sat on the ground and made no further moves.

One of the Rangers nodded and left to go talk to the Princess while the others stood guard around the demon, as the snow melted around him. He returned in less than a minute, Syndra following him with a smile on her face.

"Ah, Sergeant Xalgaman, if I'm not mistaken." Syndra said, bowing. "You're here for the Amulet I assume?"

"Hah! Finally a mortal who understands!" Xalgaman replied, laughing again and standing up. "Yes Syndra, the amulet please."

Syndra nodded and reached into her long flowing locks, and pulled out the heavy amulet. With two hands she carefully placed it in Xalgaman's hands, and bowed again.

"Please deliver it back to King Xolarand with my apologies. Perhaps we can meet again under better circumstances?" Syndra offered, with a smile. "I have a homeland to retake for now, though."

"I appreciate your cooperation, Princess." Xalgaman answered, bowing deeply. "I will pass the message on to my liege, but I can offer no promises. Until next time."

Xalgaman immediately melted on the spot, leaving behind an inky black pool that started to evaporate.

"Princess, what was that about?" The Ranger Captain asked.

"It was about something I stole a long time ago." Syndra answered with a sly smile. "Come on, we have a war to plan."

The Captain gave Syndra an odd look as he followed her back to the barracks.