The knights continued on.
They only came across one more pack of werewolves and a few forest goblins. Elara was called to use her search magic several times through the day.
It was clear that their job was nearing its end.
The commanders decided to continue the ride well into the evening so that they would be able to reach Drachium Palace even earlier then they planned.
Even as the sun started to fall in the sky, they continued on.
Traveling through the forest at night somehow felt serene. The sounds of the small forest animals echoed through the trees.
Gabel looked over his shoulder and spotted Elara riding at the back of the Loverne knights. She had put her hood up earlier in the day, making it impossible for him to see her face.
His lips still tingled with longing from their kiss.
Was she too feeling effected?
Gabel tried to think of things that brought him reassurance.
Not only did she had kissed him back, but he also had felt her body burn against his.
These thoughts tormented him, as well as brought him comfort for the remainder of their ride.
Two hours after the sun had fully set, they finally settled at what would be the last camp before arriving to the Palace.
The knights gathered around their fires and enjoyed a light meal of whatever food was left.
Gabel drug a small log over to the fire and sat down on it.
"Oi, Lachzion, soon we shall be at the kings place, enjoying ourselves some well deserved wine."
Hebaron plopped his huge frame down next to him and patted Gabel on the shoulder.
"Yes, I actually think I may drink a whole barrel myself."
Hebaron laughed, "I'll do you one better! Two barrels we shall have brother!"
Gabel then raised his head to the sky. The stars laid out like a shining blanket across sky.
He sighed, "We will actually be able to sleep in a bed. What a treat that shall be for my aching back."
Hebaron too sighed, "shit, I am not even sure what it feels like to sleep in a bed anymore."
Though he tried his best to appear as if he were listening, Gabel's mind kept lingering to Elara and their moment.
That damned kiss.
The thought of sleeping in a luxurious bed at the palace and just maybe getting the chance to share it with her made his heart pound heavy in his chest.
Never in his life had he wanted to bed a woman so badly.
He Let out a quiet, strained groan and kicked a rock by his boot.
Trying his best to push her from his mind, he focused all his attention on his comrades.
Moments later Ursuline commanded that everyone turn in, for they would be leaving at dawn to reach the palace by noon the next day.
Even though they had a an exhausting day, Gabel was unable to calm his mind enough to find sleep.
Staring into the darkness, he thought of things he wanted say to Elara.
Things he needed to say to her.
Once again when dawn came, the knights made quick work of tearing down camp and preparing for the day.
