As some people say, 'distance makes the heart nearer'. Also, smart girl thinking for a long-term success instead of a short-term one Look, the hero is subtly influenced!
She's always part of the party, just not officially. Since the others knew she would always follow them around and could take care of herself, they never really cared if she was a few steps behind. They knew full well she would catch up, like a very determined puppy. Plus, she always helped them out without asking so they just accepted it. No reason to refuse.
She's basically the team pet that suddenly appeared for no reason and is just there by the background.
@Scrabbleman wouldn't that be the perfect NPC encounter in DnD? considering how cliche most parties would pick up a straggler.
like the mysterious trader showing up regularly because they're actually a stalker?
well at least they offered lol. also that guy mentioning that she reminded him of her daughter/granddaughter, does everyone eventually get reincarnated into this world ? seem like he could’ve been an older relative.