Activity

Okay! I decided to use a completely new character from a novel I’m planning, so I’m kind of just finding her voice.

I pushed aside the curtain and ducked into the small inn, hoping it would be a little quieter in here.

The transition from the glaring sunlight outside to the cool shade blinded me for a moment, and I blinked rapidly. As my eyes adjusted to the dim light, I saw that the room was almost deserted. There were maybe four or five people sitting at wooden tables, either eating in silence or speaking softly. After the assault on the senses that was the city, this place felt like a refuge.

I wiped sweat from my brow and took a deep breath – there had hardly been room to breathe on the streets – and smelled spices and cooking meat. My stomach growled and my mouth started watering.

Oh yes, this was why I was here. No more half-stale camp food for me.

I crossed to the counter. Some people looked up at the movement but quickly turned back to their food or their friends. The hushed atmosphere made me want to step lightly, and to speak softly when the short woman behind the counter asked what she could get me.

A few minutes later, I sat down at the closest table with a steaming bowl of rice and meat cupped in my hands. I glanced around again, more out of instinct than anything else, but of course no one was paying me any attention.

I was safe in the city, for now, at least. It was time to forget my troubles and enjoy some proper food.