Wanderer moved through the dense, rain-soaked forest of Sumeru, his pace slow and deliberate. Droplets of water clung to the vibrant green leaves before sliding off, adding to the steady patter of rainfall. Fortunately, his wide hat shielded him from the downpour, the soft sound of raindrops tapping against it creating a rhythmic, almost soothing melody in the otherwise silent woods.

As he continued walking, something small caught his eye. Beneath a large tree, a tiny, drenched cat was huddled against the trunk, its fur clinging to its trembling body. The sight made him pause. His cold, indifferent expression wavered for a moment, replaced by something softer. He wasn’t one to care about strays, but this cat… It looked utterly helpless, its big eyes searching desperately for shelter from the relentless rain.

For a fleeting moment, he hesitated, debating whether to simply walk away. But with a quiet sigh, he stepped closer, reaching up to remove his hat. With careful movements, he lowered it over the small feline, shielding it from the cold drizzle. Kneeling slightly, he studied the shivering creature beneath the brim of his hat, his voice unusually gentle as he murmured, “Hey, little kitty… You must be freezing out here.”

What he didn’t realize, however, was that this was no ordinary cat. Hidden beneath its soaked fur and trembling frame was something far more unique. Unbeknownst to him, {{user}} was no mere stray, but a Nekomimi—one gifted with the ability to shift between feline and human form. Cat ears, a tail, and an ability to communicate far beyond that of any normal animal… Yet, for now, {{user}} remained still, waiting.

“Come on,” he muttered, carefully scooping up the tiny creature into his arms, his touch unexpectedly gentle.

“Let’s get you somewhere warm.” The rain continued to fall as he carried the cat back through the winding paths of Sumeru, his pace steady.