Dare to Defy Read Online Free Page A

accompanying it. Günter shook his head again.
    “Do we dare defy the agreement made by the kings? I know my father does not want this coupling. I had not seen that expression before upon his face and was eager to comply when he waved his hand to dismiss me.” Günter’s concern was clearly heard in his voice.
    “Perhaps the priestess Ilesbet has a direction given by the gods?” the guard asked hopefully, looking at the woman.
    “Perhaps,” Ilesbet responded thoughtfully. “Husband? What if she goes by way of the hunting lodge in the northern woods? We can tell him that she is in her moon cycle and left early this morn to offer prayers to the gods for her fertility.”
    “I can accompany her,” the guard offered, “and ensure her safety.”
    “Yes, but that would only hold him off one week. No, we need something more extreme.”
    “I could run away again,” Daynel said quietly. “I know every inch of these woods and all of the villages for leagues. I can care for myself, Günter. I do not need a guard nor will I place risk upon anyone because of me. Also, I will move faster on my own.”
    “She is correct,” Ilesbet said softly before Günter had the opportunity to lift argument. “You taught her all she needs to care for herself. And she is protected…”
    “Stories aren’t going to protect me, Ilesbet, but my skill will,” Daynel said confidently.
    “There are more than just stories, child, they…”
    “Sister, you forget that Ilesbet has faith in the dragon gods,” Günter said affectionately, noting the pained tone in his wife’s voice. “You must always respect those whose beliefs run different from your own, if that faith is just and true.”
    “I apologize, Ilesbet,” Daynel said sincerely. “My heart wishes it believed such as you. A faithful dragon protector would be greatly appreciated at this time.”
    “Your Highness? I do not know how much longer your father can hold off this man,” the guard gently reminded. “Your instructions?”
    “Yes, thank you. Take this,” Günter slid off his signet ring, “and use only if questioned.”
    The women listened carefully to the guard’s orders and watched as the anxious man left with a quick bow. Günter turned to Daynel and repeated himself, ignoring as she rolled her eyes in exasperation. Ilesbet patted the younger woman’s shoulder with sympathy for she, too, had been privy to the same repetitive instructions on multiple occasions.
    “Günter, I heard you the first time. I will be safe, have no fear. I understand and am prepared for the risks. My armor, though…”
    “I will retrieve that for you,” Ilesbet said, rising to her feet. “I had your chambermaid hand them over to me upon the gathering and I locked them in a cabinet to which only I hold the key.”
    Günter waited until his wife left the chambers to sit next to his sister and take her hands in his. “Firestar will see you safe. Whistle as I have taught you once you are in the woods and he will come. I will have him saddled to jump after spreading the word that you have run away. He is the fastest horse in the realm and will quickly outrun any who try to find you.”
    “Please be rid of Ethan for all our sake. I do not want that evil man causing anyone harm on my account. How I wish that a true source of magic really existed. As I shared with Ilesbet, a dragon protector would be most welcome right now. Not just for me, but for all of us. I sense that Ethan will destroy everything in his path if he can.”
    “Sister, I do believe you. I, too, sense darkness in that man. I also have faith that true magic exists, but we must seek it out. Please, you must trust me. Now, I will follow the wise advice of my wife. I will explain to him that the maids reported you leaving early this morning for your moon cycle and are expecting you back in five days. They were uncertain as to which temple you attend, only knowing it was outside of the city. I pray that he accepts this excuse