Earlier that morning...
When Ellie left the quarters with the intention of heading to the main palace, she halted at that same spot where she could see that lonely tree clearly.
Since she still had a few minutes before the official time to start her work, she decided to pay the lone entity a visit.
Just as she thought, the tree and its entire vicinity provided a soothing solace and serenity to her heart. Its rigid and rough bark, solid roots embedded deep within the soil with a few visible parts above the earth's surface, and widely spread branches holding lush leaves, appealed to her.
For that reason, she decided to spend the few minutes she had to spare in the company of such a beauty.
After checking to be sure there were no ants infestation on it, Ellie put her years-long tree climbing skills to use.
Taking the last bite from her apple, she threw the core away and focused on the task in front of her.