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She came, deposited a collection of fungi - naturally they thought she was a customer, and after an exchange, she'd left. Then she came again a few days later, executed that exchange one more, and left.

She was here once more, and being a distinctive doe, Rise couldn't help but notice her and her stunning consistency of provision, even if its quality did vary. He rose, and approached.

"Hullo miss," he said with a beam. "Here again? I do believe this is the third time I’ve seen you now."

 

Rise found such enthusiasm endearing, and approvingly said, "and what a bountiful collection! What're you looking to purchase today, then - and ah, pardon me, may I know your name please, miss?" If she was going to come with such regularity, he should really get to know her proper.

"I like food too," he assured, with a broad smile. "Thank you for constantly dropping by, I -"

There was a clatter of stones, the sound of falling goods, and a possibly enraged squeal from behind the storefront that made Rise suddenly snap up straight, his head pivoting back quickly. "Please excuse me for a moment," the voice was steady, but hurried, and the buck galloped to the back.

What came out first, however, was not the owner of the store, but an ash-coloured mongoose, splashed with berry-like colours. The way it ran it was almost flying, scampering at top speed, dodging the displays and bewildered customers. They stopped to stare at the fleeing mongoose, who had very successfully, up till then, managed to find clear air to run. 

Then the boss then came thundering after it, and that's when the mongoose barrelled full-force into Long Ago's front leg, unfolded and clung to her, looking up with pleading beady eyes.

"I am so sorry for the interruption," he caught up to her, "have you seen a - oh, there it is! It was for salting, but we had an altercation at the back. If I may?" And he started to bend down, seeking the furry little critter for pickling. 

Thankfully for the mongoose, Rise had no heart to doubt the sweetness of a young doe, especially one with a skill that the tribe did not yet possess - once he heard gather mushrooms...together...

...together...

...only the best...
His brain shut down for a second and kicked back into gear. "I SEE!" he exclaimed, his grin now altogether too wide to be healthy for his face. "I am terribly sorry that we tried to make your mongoose - I mean, Death Cap," for he always made the effort to be mindful of how people felt about their pets, "into foodstuff, but I am delighted to hear that."

He came closer and tilted his head apologetically at the now-pet mongoose. "In fact, that would be a wonderful permanent addition to our goods, Long Ago - would you please, please join us as a mushroom supplier for Rise & Co?"