Upon entering the Earls garden, they dismounted and passed their horses reigns over to a couple of oncoming guards.
At the top of the Castle stairs Riftan stepped out front and commanded, "Tell the Earl Riftan Calypse has arrived. He is expecting me."
With that the two other guards rushed away to convey the message.
Gabel anxiously looked around. Heat rising to his already flushed face.
"You alright Lachzion?" Elliots hand gently landed on his shoulder.
"Yes...I am f..."
Then suddenly, Gabel spotted a knight walking across the Earls Garden.
Immediately he recognized him from the border raid. Without even asking permission to leave, his feet began to move towards the Loverne knight.
"You , I remember you. Where is your mage. I need to speak with her."
The knight chuckled, and crossed his arms over his chest. "Ah, I also remember you. Elara is no longer our mage. She was replaced."
Gabel furrowed his brow and stepped closer, "What does that mean?"
The older knight once again chuckled, "Exactly as I have said. She was replaced. You will not find her here. Last I heard that wench was living out in the country."
Quickly Gabel turned around and headed back towards Riftan and Elliot, who were both looking his way.
"Commander I ask permission to go look for the mage, she is residing in the country somewhere and I must go look for her."
Riftan brought his hand up and rubbed his face. Then with a reluctant sigh he spoke, "Fine go, but report back by sunset."
Gabel nodded his head then started to run towards the Castle stables.
"My steed!" He shouted to the young stable boy by the entrance.
The lad rushed inside then brought out his horse.
Quickly Gabel mounted.
"Tell me boy, the direction of your Village."
"Six miles down that way! The boys finger pointed west from the Castle.
"Thank you!" Gabel beckoned his steed into a fast gallop.
Though it was evening , the village streets were packed with people.
He asked several passing villagers , if they knew where he could find the previous Loverne mage.
Most of them said no, then continued on with their business.
Finally after some time, a middle aged woman who was out sweeping her porch shouted, "The woman known as the previous Loverne mage, resides at a farm two miles up that path."
She motioned with her hand to a small dirt road veering off to the side of the village.
"You have my thanks, my lady!" Gabel shouted, trotting his steed in that same direction.
Just as the village woman had stated, about two miles up the dirt road, a large farm came into view.
A decent sized house sat aside a gigantic cropped field. The land was well kept, beautiful flowers planted all around.
Across from the house was a large brown barn.
It was a serene sight, like something out of a peaceful dream. One you keep with you from childhood.
While continuing towards the house, Gabel heard a creaking door swing open.
