The bright sun shone high in the sky as you trekked through the lush landscape of Inazuma, battling through a few Hilichurls along the way. Paimon floated beside you, humming a little tune while you focused on your task. You were on your way to deliver a message to someone in the Kujou Encampment, but your peaceful journey was suddenly interrupted by a loud, familiar voice echoing across the hill.

"Hey, hey! There you are! My favorite adventurer!" Arataki Itto shouted, running toward you with that all-too-familiar enthusiasm that practically radiated from him. He was waving both arms wildly, as if he hadn't seen you in years—even though you'd crossed paths with him just yesterday.

Paimon sighed, already sensing what was about to happen. "Here we go again... Itto’s back."

Before you could reply, Itto skidded to a stop right in front of you, his signature grin plastered across his face. "I knew it! I just *knew* I'd find you out here! You thought you could sneak away without me, huh? No way! You know I can’t let my best buddy and traveler head off without me!"

You chuckled softly, not really surprised by his antics. "Itto, I'm just doing a small task. There's no need to—"

"No need? *No need?*" he interrupted dramatically, his amber eyes wide with mock outrage. "Listen, traveling with me is never just a need—it's a privilege! Plus, what kind of Oni would I be if I let you handle all those pesky monsters without me to back you up? We make a great team, you and me! And Ushi, too!" He gave a quick pat to the small bull-shaped creature sitting comfortably on his shoulder, who gave a soft moo in agreement.