And on we go with Anna’s tale…
Day 67: “And where is Marcus,” Anna asked.
“And where is Marcus,” Anna asked. “I would have thought he would be traveling with us, especially if he is the one with explanations.”
“If he was still here then I am sure he would be traveling with us. However when we couldn’t find you, he went searching other cities in case you left.”
“Even with your excellent new shield over the city?”
“I told him you wouldn’t be able to pass, but he wanted to make certain,” Christopher shook his head as though amused by Marcus and his suspicions. “I contacted him before we left and he will meet us back in the capitol.”
“Then I suppose I will have to wait for explanations then,” Anna replied.
“I suppose so.”
They lapsed into silence, having nothing more that needed to be said. Christopher seemed to mind the silence more than she did. She looked out of the window as the city sped by.
“I also called to make certain your apartments would be ready,” Christopher told her.
“My apartments,” Anna replied. When she reached her majority she had used her funds to purchase an apartment that was in a good part of town and separate from the family home. She wanted independence, but to still be close. She could walk from the family home to her apartments easily. While close, the separation had allowed her to escape. The officials went after the bulk of the family at the townhouse first. A separate team had been sent to the country estate just outside of town to round up the few there. She was supposed to be at her parents for dinner but had been running late. It was her saving grace.
While she hadn’t thought of her apartment in a while, had she then she would have assumed it was confiscated with the rest of the family property.
“It has been sealed since you left,” Christopher said. “There was a search of course, but you were gone by then.”
Anna wasn’t certain how to respond to that. His tone made it sound as though she departed for a holiday without telling anyone rather than running for her life.
“Your clothing will still be there,” Christopher continued. “It will no longer be in fashion of course, styles have changed since you were last in the capitol but the materials will be more fitting for your station. And we can easily arrange for your dressmaker to visit.”
“How kind,” Anna said.
“Well, we do want you to feel welcomed back and you will no doubt want to make the rounds to see all of your friends. I am certain they have missed you as much as you missed them.”
Ten til Midnight 