Chapter 12 - 9: Friends Day Out
After a hectic day at the Victoria Maid Café, Ellen decided to take some much-needed time to unwind with her friends, Ruby, Monna, and Lynn. The four of them had planned a casual day out in New Eridu, free from the looming stress of Hollows and housekeeping duties. It was rare for Ellen to have a day like this, and her friends were determined to make it memorable.
Ellen arrived at their meeting spot—a cozy café near the city center—to find Ruby already there, sipping on a steaming cup of coffee. The Bull Thiren gave Ellen a cheerful wave, her horns gleaming in the morning sunlight.
"You're early," Ellen remarked, sitting across from her.
"Of course! Someone has to make sure you actually relax," Ruby replied with a grin. "You've been working way too hard lately."
Monna and Lynn arrived shortly after, Monna carrying a box of pastries and Lynn clutching a sketchpad. The two friends were an amusing contrast: Monna, ever the chatterbox, dove straight into a story about her morning, while Lynn quietly observed, occasionally scribbling in her pad.
The group decided to start their day with a walk through New Eridu's bustling market district. The streets were alive with vendors hawking their wares, the air filled with the scent of spices and freshly baked bread. Monna was in her element, darting from stall to stall and dragging the others along to admire her finds.
"Ellen, look at this!" Monna exclaimed, holding up a vibrant scarf. "It'd match your uniform perfectly."
"Hard pass," Ellen replied, though her sharp tone was softened by a small smile.
Ruby laughed, tossing an arm around Ellen's shoulders. "Come on, Ellen, live a little. You might actually enjoy yourself."