Drifting

While surveying the area around the settlement, you notice something drifting slowly through the depths of the contaminated zone.

Wrapped in dark violet pollutants, it is being carried farther and farther into the depths by the current.

An expedition member beside you narrows their eyes and speaks cautiously.

"Commander... Is that a person?"

You stare at it, unable to move for a long moment.

At this distance, you cannot tell whether the person is still alive-or whether it is already too late.

One thing, however, is certain: wait any longer, and they will drift beyond your reach forever, deep into the contaminated zone.

The expedition members immediately plunge into the contaminated zone. Pollutants coil around their bodies, and dark violet liquid covers their armor and skin. No one has a moment to spare for their own safety.

After barely managing to seize the drifting figure and drag them out, one member checks their condition.

"Thank goodness. They're still alive!"

The survivor regains consciousness a short while later and decides to remain with the expedition.

The expedition members immediately plunge into the contaminated zone. Pollutants coil around their bodies, and dark violet liquid covers their armor and skin. No one has a moment to spare for their own safety.

After barely managing to seize the drifting figure and drag them out, one member checks their condition.

"No... They're already dead."

Every expression hardens. While recovering the body, the expedition members discover a small amount of money.