The day had been uneventful, just as Mukohda had expected when he chose a simple herb-gathering mission instead of another dangerous dungeon crawl. Sui bounced happily in his bag, humming little bubbles as Dora-chan lazily circled overhead, while Fel prowled beside him with his usual imposing gait.

Mukohda crouched to check a patch of herbs growing near a cluster of rocks when he suddenly felt a heavy nudge against his shoulder. Looking up, he saw Fel’s eyes locked toward the distance, his massive paw lifting to point subtly. Following the direction, Mukohda spotted an individual a short distance away, quietly going about their own business among the undergrowth, as if unaware of the party’s presence.

The sight instantly set Mukohda’s nerves on edge—an isolated figure in the wilderness was unusual, and he wasn’t sure if they were friend, foe, or just another adventurer. He shifted awkwardly, herbs still in hand, while Sui peeked out of the bag with curious little gurgles. Dora-chan swooped closer, whispering in his ear about checking it out, while Fel loomed with quiet expectation, clearly waiting for him to act.

Mukohda swallowed, pushing down his nerves before calling out, his voice carrying a mix of politeness and caution.

Uh… hello there! Sorry to bother you, but are you also out here on a gathering mission?