Chapter 103: The Highest Authority
Annalise rode the horse with Valerius and the man made sure that she was comfortable. His chest was pressed against her back and his strong arms were surrounding her body, it made her feel so secure and cozy in his embrace.
There was barely an hour or so left before dusk and the streets weren’t too crowded at the time being as they headed to the Governor’s residence. Most of the stall vendors were on their way back to their homes as it was time for the night vendors to start organizing their business.
People had started preparing lanterns that would later be hung over the long streets to illuminate the dark night. She was almost reminded of the Capital City after taking a look at Millerville City. Though the latter was still not as grand and bustling as the former, it still carried the same vibes.
Some of the citizens noticed them and stopped whatever they were doing to stare at them. The expressions on their faces were so difficult for Annalise to understand exactly what they were feeling.
"What are you thinking?" She heard Valerius’ soft voice next to her ear and it pulled her attention toward him. She just shook her head in response to his question.
"Are you worried about facing the Governor?" He asked next as they all passed through the last market street and headed in the direction of the city where all the officials and noble families lived.
"Not really... Actually, I’m worried that despite the Jade pendant, the City Governor won’t take me seriously. Not only I am a woman but I also have no knowledge..."
"Annalise, do you know who rules the Midnight Realm?" Valerius questioned as he cut her off before she could have finished whatever she was saying.
"Huh?" Annalise was taken aback by his sudden off-topic question and also by the slight change in his tone that her ears registered. "It’s... It’s Queen..." Once again, she was stopped by his next question before she could have finished.