Adela ended up following Egon after all.
Their horses galloped leisurely until they reached the lands close to the border between the Archduchy and the dukedom where Egon slowed Xavier down.
The scenery behind them changed significantly, with the pine trees giving way to the dry lands that preceded the desert. Small cactus-like bushes spread to the left and right of the main road. Adela's heart sank at the sight of the stony gate, its imposing structure guarded by armored sentinels.
I should've seen this coming...
Apart from going to Kolhis, Adela had never left the Archduchy before. Seeing the border up this close was a new sight for her, especially considering the heavy guard presence.
She caught up to Egon and rode by his side, her voice heavy with concern, "It must be because of the state of emergency... They can't stop me, but they won't allow you to pass without written permission from the Archduke."