Darkyn. The Dark One's mysterious search for something past-Deidre left behind began to make sense. What would Darkyn want with past-Deidre's soul, unless he intended to add it to the Army of Souls?
Controlling a deity would bring incredible power to the demon lord at a time when Rhyn was struggling to battle demons already. The Immortals were vulnerable, and Darkyn's hunger for power and control of the mortal world was not something Gabriel questioned.
Grimly, he realized he should've taken up Wynn's first offer to barter for the secret. The information was beyond valuable. It might be all that stood between the Dark One and the human world. As nonchalant as Wynn was being about it, he knew what it meant.
"I knew you'd find it worthy. The magic I used to kill her, I also used to seal the tumor. My thought was that it was a like a time bomb, awaiting the right moment for our dear deity to reemerge," Wynn said. "I'm beginning to believe she didn't want me to find her after all, that it was Fate who pushed our paths together."
"Fate has been active lately," Gabe said, pensive.
"Indeed. Summoned me a few days ago. He's scheming."
"Deities always are," Gabe said. "The answer you seek: Darkyn."
Wynn's eyebrows shot up. "She made a deal with him?"
"Apparently." Distracted, Gabe began to think about how he might be able to save Deidre using the powers of Death. All souls - even those of deities - came to Death eventually. Would the soul in her head respond to him? "You couldn't get it out?"
"A few years ago, I could have. Now, it's not removable by human medicine or by Immortal power," Wynn added.
"I'm assuming the only reason you told me is because you think I can do something about it," Gabe said.
"If anyone can coax an unwilling soul out of a human brain, you can. I'll still kill her to get what I want, if I must," Wynn said with a cold smile.
"I expect nothing less from you."
"Good. You'll keep her out of my way and make sure Darkyn doesn't stumble upon her or the treasure in her head."
Gabe eyed him. From any other Immortal, it wouldn't have been a threat. Wynn was as likely as past-Deidre to make a deal with the Dark One. Gabriel began to see the Ancient's plan as well. Whoever had the soul of past-Death, had immeasurable bargaining power.
"My part here is done. You've been warned. I don't need to tell you that any further assistance I provide you will not be by my choice."