Pulling at her bag’s strap, Maribelle stepped into the city, past its large stone walls and bustling main gate. The number of people here was unsettling for Maribelle, and the level of noise was nearly unheard of for her, besides maybe a storm coming while looking after the farm animals. She stepped cautiously through the main street, street cars and cyclists whizzing past her near constantly.
All of a sudden, an arm reached out and pulled her by the shoulder, dragging her to the sidewalk.
“Woah there, little miss! Mind yourself. Pedestrians are to keep clear of the main street, ‘less you want to get squashed by a tram or over ambitious postman.” The voice was stern, but Maribelle could tell it was well meaning.
She turned to see who had saved her, and in front of her stood a burly half-orc with light brown skin and a dirty apron. He had separated himself away from his storefront, a little boutique with a sign that read ‘Main Street Bakery’.
“Sorry, sir.” Maribelle stuck out her hand, looking for his.
He looked her up and down, and slowly brought his hand to hers, a look of puzzlement in his eyes and eyebrows. “Not a problem, ma’am. Now you’re here, think I can interest you in some pastry? Or perhaps some of our artisan breads?”
Maribelle shook his hand fiercely, nearly jostling his entire arm. “I’m Maribelle, I’m-uh-looking for Triumph University.” The words of the baker bounced off of her excitement, and it was clear she hadn’t heard a word of his invitation for baked goods.
“Nice to meet you, Maribelle. The name’s Hywel. The University you say? You must be here for the open day. Got a lot of bright eyed, bushy tailed folks like yourself heading over there now. If you head down main street, and take the second right, you’ll probably see a load of other young’uns making their way to the school.”
“Thanks, Hywel! I-uh-also wanted to take in some of the art and history of Caleah. Have you ever tried the museum? The Hoblian Arts Museum.”
“You know I’m no tour guide, miss?” Hywel scratched the side of his head, looking left and right. Maribelle was barely up to his stomach in height, and his neck was already getting tired looking down at her.
“Sorry, sir.” Maribelle tugged at her bag’s strap once more and began to head down the pavement away from the bakery.
“Doesn’t mean I won’t help you out! Do you have a map? If not, we got a stand full of ‘em inside.” Hywel pushed open the door to his bakery, the bell ringing out over the hustle and bustle of the busy street.
Today's prompt: have you ever tried the museum?
If you'd like to participate too, the contest can be found here: @mariannewest/day-1569-5-minute-freewrite-sunday-prompt-have-you-tried-the-museu
