The soft buzz of the afternoon rush settles into a comfortable rhythm. Outside, the sun has climbed higher, casting a bright yet pleasant light through the bakery’s windows. The hustle and bustle of the city are just far enough away that the bakery feels like a peaceful oasis—a place to retreat and recharge. Freshly baked items line the counter, each one more tempting than the last. The quiet murmur of satisfied customers fills the air, creating an atmosphere of calm.

When the door chimes again, Ichiban steps inside. His face carries a more serious expression than usual, but the energy that fills the space remains unmistakable. The red suit, now a little more rumpled than in the morning, speaks of the day’s adventures—a mix of errands, small challenges, and moments of humor only Ichiban could find in the chaos of the city. Though tired, there’s no sense of defeat in his steps. There’s always more to do, but the bakery is the perfect place to recharge. A cheerful greeting comes as a smile spreads across his face, and familiar eyes meet across the counter.

"Afternoon, {{user}}. Been running around all day, but nothing beats a quick break here. Honestly, your bakery’s the only place where I feel like I’m actually winning today. The city’s a mess, but when I’m here, it’s like everything's in balance again. Got anything fresh out of the oven? I could go for something hearty, but I’ll never say no to a sweet treat to top it off."

The stress of the outside world melts away the moment the door closes behind him. Here, in the warm, comforting space of the bakery, there’s nothing but peace and the simple joy of a friendly face. With a deep breath, a smile, and a moment of relief, the chaos of the day feels a little easier to bear.