My Cerberus Girlfriend

Book Five: Chapter 2

A goblin thief who had taken a pricey amulet from a jewelry store in the mall was being pursued by Roger and the Cerberus. The burglar had the advantage of getting a head start, but the Cerberus was quick to react because to their agility as dogs. Shoppers watched in astonishment and dread as they pursued the goblin through the mall; they weren't used to witnessing mythological creatures turn rogue.

The goblin was employing some of his cunning techniques to elude his pursuers. He was hurling marbles at the ground from a bag in an effort to get the Cerberus to trip and fall. They were too quick for him, though, and all three of their heads were fixed on the intended victim. Although Roger had his gun ready, he decided against using it in the crowded mall because doing so might endanger innocent bystanders.

The Cerberus jumped through the shop window to block the goblin's escape when their pursuit brought them inside. The goblin ran about the shop, toppling displays and smashing goods in the process. The shop's dwarf owner yelled at the Cerberus, "What do you think you're doing?! " as she watched in terror. “You cannot simply break into my store in that manner!”

The Cerberus tackled the goblin and held him in their tight bear hug. He wiggled and cried like an angry baby.

Roger attempted to reassure the business owner, but she was unyielding. She made threats to report them to the police and file a lawsuit against them for property damage. Feeling bad for making a mess, the Cerberus women tried to cover the costs, but the shop owner flatly refused. Before things worsened, Roger knew they had to leave while carrying the little criminal.

Rosetta's voice soon started to play on the communicator. "Return to the station as soon as possible."

Uneasy glances were exchanged among the group. They seemed to be having problems.

*****
The imposing building was in front of Roger and his partner as they were driving their police vehicle toward the station.

At the heart of the city, a massive structure that had been built after the Gods had come back to Earth served as the headquarters of the New Olympus Police Department. A beautiful and intimidating edifice that evoked awe and reverence was created by fusing contemporary technology with ancient Greek design.

The building's exterior was covered in white marble that had been polished and shone in the sunlight. God sculptures adorned the façade as tall columns supported the entrance's roof. Two imposing minotaurs with weapons and blue uniforms stood guard at the entrance. One of the minotaurs told them to stop as the police truck came up.

The window was slid down, and Roger displayed his badge. The minotaur acknowledged the truck and moved to the side.

They parked their truck in the underground garage where two officers accepted to escort the goblin thief to his cell. The Cerberus woman followed Roger into the building.

The mood was frantic and busy inside the station. All sizes and shapes of officers hurried about, taking calls, typing reports, and watching the hallways.

Murals illustrating well-known conflicts between the Gods and monsters adorned the walls. A large banner with the department's emblem hung from the ceiling, bearing the words "Protectors of New Olympus." Coffee and paper odors filled the air, as laughing and conversation resounded throughout the hallways.

Roger and the Cerberus passed the booking area on their approach to Rosetta's office. The heavy chains that the trolls were being processed in clinked against the ground. A harpy was debating with a policeman and maintaining her innocence. A bored-looking centaur was filling out paperwork.

They arrived at Rosetta's workplace eventually. They could hear her voice inside despite the door being closed. The Cerberus knocked after inhaling deeply.

"Come in," Rosetta beckoned.

Roger and his Cerberus partner walked into the Chief's office and were met by a vast, open space with a desk in the middle. A middle-aged black human woman named Rosetta was working at her computer behind a desk while drinking coffee.

With its huge windows and ample lighting, the office offered a glimpse of the busy city below. The walls were covered with images of Rosetta with other well-known people and different honors and honours.

"Ah, there you are," Rosetta said with a smile as she turned to face them. "Have a seat, please."

Roger sat down across from the Chief's desk, and the Cerberus woman obediently stood in the corner.

"How did the chase go?" Rosetta questioned as she raised an eyebrow at them.

Roger spoke as respectfully as he could, "We caught the goblin thief, but we had to jump through a window to do it."

The Chief chuckled a little. "At least you managed to catch him. But the shop owner has complained to me about the harm done. You are aware of how these things operate, therefore we cannot simply ignore it. We must demonstrate to the populace that we are there to assist and safeguard them, not harm them."

Roger nodded, recognizing he might be in trouble with his girlfriend.

"At this point, try not to stress too much. I'll handle the paperwork and speak with the store owner directly. Simply be more cautious the next time," Rosetta reassured them.

Roger and his companion walked out of the office happy they wouldn't suffer any major repercussions. As they prepared for their upcoming task, they made their way back to their truck.