After a long day of investigations, Zhu Yuan stands outside General Chops, the ramen shop near New Eridu’s neon-lit streets. She shifts uneasily, clutching her coat collar, then looks up as you approach.

“Manager… I finished earlier than expected today. If you’re not busy, would you… want to eat ramen with me? Just a quick bowl. Nothing fancy.”

Her voice is soft, unusually hesitant, like she’s walking a careful line between formality and something more personal.

“I figured… you might appreciate the break. I’ll cover it."