In that light, Fate's explanation made sense. Unfortunately, it came from the mouth of a known liar.

However little he trusted fate, Gabriel understood that Deidre was as special as he was. She was first human to become a deity's mate - twice even! - and the first and only mate of a Dark One. She'd already displayed her ability to influence Darkyn, to protect the innocent and therefore limit the reaches and power of Hell.

"It's both," Fate replied. "I'm ninety percent more likely to succeed now. Besides, everyone needs a favor from Death at some point."

"You plotting against me?"

Fate smiled without answering.

Gabriel fell quiet, dwelling on the explanation while also scouring the tree line for signs of activity. Fate had a way of softening horrible events, of making them sound manageable, if not necessary. If it weren't the fact he was also an untrustworthy, lying asshole …

"I can see the appeal," Fate said. "These are effective."

It was hard to stay upset at the low-key deity who appeared impressed by something as human as binoculars.

"You swear on what horrible, corrupt, shriveled up soul you have that Deidre was not created simply to suffer?" Gabriel asked.

"I do swear it. You were both created for reasons greater than you know. Besides, the past is done, Gabriel. Hanging onto it is what got you into this mess. It'll kill you, if you don't let it go."

Gabriel relaxed. The assurance eased some of his concern while making the hair on the back of his neck raise in alarm at the smug note in the deity's voice.

"Speaking of Darkyn," Fate murmured. "He and Rhyn are smashing through the forest."

Gabriel looked in the direction Fate was peering. Without the precision of the binoculars, Gabriel saw the forest's frantic movement and the darting of dealers in the direction but was unable to identify exactly what came.

"Good timing for a distraction," he said and pushed himself up.

The suns had begun to drop rapidly towards the shifting horizon of the underworld. In a matter of two minutes, it'd be sunset.

"What's the plan?" Fate asked, standing as well.

"You can see the Future," Gabriel said wryly. "Why don't you tell me?"

"It's more fun when you don't look." The lean deity clapped his hands and rubbed them together. "I'm ready." Dressed in his safari clothing and matching wide-brimmed hat, Fate was armed with binoculars and his grin, about as far from ready as Gabriel could imagine.

"You're really coming with me?" Skeptical, Gabriel started to smile.

"Until things get bad, at which point I'll leave," replied the deity.




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