I’m intrigued by this one.

Fundamentally, it shouldn’t really work – there isn’t a great amount of content, your character isn’t particularly clearly defined.

But, little details like the ‘tattered and desperate rebel flag’ and the ‘indifferent wind’ make for a mysterious cross between character study and series opener…

Not sure how well it works alone, but for hooking a reader it did a nice job – MH :)

I agree, it is intriguing. I can’t decide whether I find the wind or the baker more engaging, you play with the focus making a very ordinary act seem, curious.

Two nit picks: “Just-lower-than-shoulders” sounds like you’re describing a role play character, not telling a story. I’d recommend cutting the phrase entirely, or at least do something about the dashes, it doesn’t flow.

I’m not sure but I think you might need a comma after “everyone’s”, you separate it with the dash but then leave it open.

Apart from that, a nice short. (And a short on ficly really is short!)

Thanks for the comments. I did a couple edits based on the feedback.