Deidre's Death

"Apparently, the portal isn't closed from Hell. The demons can't access it, but an Immortal or dealer who goes through Hell can."

"You mean, one who survives Hell," Landon muttered.

"Or who makes a deal with the demons," Tymkyn added. "They're aggressively recruiting dealers."

"Five reported interactions with demons this evening," Landon said. "Probably when they realized why they're here tonight. Another four are missing, assumed in the underworld."

"I'll determine who's at risk in about five minutes," Gabriel said firmly, eyes going to the waiting death dealers. "Landon, start taking accountability of dealers and compasses throughout the day. Surprise visits and inspections."

"Will do. But, boss, that's not the worst news," Landon said with a glance at Tymkyn.

"The dealers in the underworld are rebelling," Tymkyn said. "I caught one of the them in the shadow world on his way back to the mortal realm. They know you're shut out, and Harmony has told them it's because you were of human origin and the underworld is rejecting you. According to the dealer I cornered, there's been some skirmishing between those loyal to you and those who want to install someone else."

"Install someone else," Gabriel repeated and shook his head. "It's not possible."

"They seem to think it is. They're searching for something. They tore apart the palace and your cabin. I don't know what it is, but it's important. They seem to think if they can find it, they'll be able to replace you with a Death of their choice."

Gabriel frowned, unaware of anything that could push him from his position as Death.

Deidre would know.

His gaze drifted towards the fortress.

"How bad is it in the underworld?" he asked.

"Bad. Those who support you are few and are being driven into the Everdark forest," Tymkyn replied. "But, you have to take the information in stride. It's one source only. He might've been bluffing to keep me off guard."

"Where is he?" Gabriel demanded. "I can determine that."

Tymkyn pulled a soul from his pocket. Gabriel sighed in frustration. He took it.

"Find me another one," he ordered. "Keep them alive until I can go through their minds."

"Will do, boss."

"Let me get this over with. Landon, my mate is here. Keep that quiet, though. I want Cora assigned to her fulltime."

Landon nodded. Tymkyn waited for more. Gabriel lifted his chin in dismissal. His second-in-command signaled Cora over while Tymkyn disappeared into a portal. Gabriel checked Cora's thoughts, relieved to find her clean and started down the line.

He found the five who reported the demon interactions with ease. Demons - especially those personally trained by Darkyn - knew how to sense weakness. They'd done their jobs well. All five of the death dealers were borderline about abandoning Gabriel. He pretended not to notice, though, and thought hard as he checked the minds of the remaining assassins.