Winterland Destiny Read Online Free PDF Page B

who had never showed interest in a particular man. Noele had always thought it was because of Solara’s own destiny, knowing she was betrothed to the king of the southern lands. She’d had no idea her sister felt this way.
    In many ways, it mirrored her own feelings. Marriage to a man she had never met, did not know, and may not even spend the rest of her life with.
    No wonder Solara did not look forward to her wedding. When Solara married, would Garick allow her to attend and support her sister?
    So many unanswered questions. She wished this ritual were over so she knew what her fate would be.
    Would she stay forever at Garick’s side? Or would she be given away like nothing more than one of the elvins’ horses?
    Only Garick knew the answers to her questions. Like it or not, it was the way of her life. She had no choices, could make no decisions. She would simply have to bide her time until after the wedding.

    * * * * *
Garick stood in the courtyard with Roarke, overseeing the training of the guards.
    Today they prepared their weaponry and fighting skills, combining elvin magic and superior strength. It would take all their powers, both mystical and physical, to defeat the wizards intent on taking over their land.
    Garick had spent his life training for this. His father had pounded duty into his head from the moment he could understand language. This was his destiny.
    Swords clanged in the courtyard, the sounds of steel against steel echoing off the stone walls. Early morning mist rose above them like smoke from a woodland fire, chilling the air.

    An attack could come at any time. Insidious and quiet like a snake in the night, or full-on barrage at the gates by the light of day. One never knew what the wizards planned. Either way, his people would be ready.
    “They are well prepared,” Roarke pronounced, nodding his head to the captain of the guards. The captain raised his hand and ended the training.
    “But will it be enough?”
    Roarke frowned. “You doubt we have the strength to defeat them?” He shrugged. “Their magic is very strong. Wizard attacks are borne of cunning and deception. We have lost several of our people in the night hours, and in unusual ways, as you well know. Our people do not simply vanish without a trace.”
    “Aye, but you can bet it was the wizards’ doing. Finding where they hide will be difficult, battling them even more so, but we are prepared. Fear not, Garick, our people will be protected.”
    “I worry about tomorrow. The nuptials are a prime opportunity for the wizards. People will let their guard down during the celebrations.” If he had his way, this marriage to the faerie princess would not be taking place tomorrow. Too many rites and customs, too many chances for a mistake to happen. One mistake and Winterland could suffer devastating consequences.
    “I will not let my guard down, and neither will your warriors.” Roarke clasped Garick on the forearm, his steely strength evident. “I will keep my eyes and ears open. I will protect our people.” Garick offered a half smile. “You will also be occupied elsewhere tomorrow eve.” Roarke arched a brow. “Does this concern you, my king?”
    “Yes, it does. I worry about attack. I’ve already told you—”
    “That is not what I meant. I’m referring to your princess and my role in the rites of marriage.”
    “You think me jealous? By all that’s magical, Roarke, that’s ridiculous. You and I have shared many women through the years. Why would this be any different?”
    “Because this particular woman will be your wife, your queen. And because you feel a connection to her.”
    Garick refused to even consider Roarke’s statement. “I have no connection to her. I feel nothing for her.”
    “You lie. We are linked, you and I. Have been since our youth. I know what you think, I feel what you feel. Your emotions where the faerie princess are concerned run deep, despite your protest to the contrary.”
    Garick ignored