Gods in the Onyx: Children of the Incubi, #4

By Lana M. Wiggins

Lily's focus of the Saga shifts when she prepares to fight both Samael and Drake to return to the Underworld in a rescue mission of her own. Gael finally has its long-awaited wedding, but the underlying tragedy of Declan and Caraye's love story is a secret Amon is determined to keep hidden from Declan. Amon and Marduk take their own Hero's journey through the Onyx River to face off against Malachi. Along the way, they face an army of lusus naturae led by an old nemesis of the Gods. Marduk plots a dangerous mission to capture the elusive Red Dragon, an incorrigible human who is wreaking havoc upon humanity in violent acts of terror that kill scores of innocents, including many of Marduk's trackers. His ill-planned scheme has disastrous and tragic consequences that the Incubi may never recover from.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Black Dragons Press
• Release date: Oct 26, 2018
• ISBN: 9781982970666

Lana M. Wiggins

Lana M. Wiggins is the author of the Children of the Incubi Series, Volumes 1-6, Root. Sprout. Blossom: Life Bag of a Flower-Child, and Notes from Refuge. Lana M. Wiggins received a Master's degree in Creative Writing from the University of Louisiana in 2001, and currently teaches English at Louisiana State University.

Book preview

Chapter One

L

ugh quietly packed his bags while Maggie paced back and forth near the door. Her knees were aching today from the chill in the air, but she couldn’t remain still nor silent any longer.

What’s the fucking emergency this time, Lugh? You were in Ireland a month ago! Maggie yelled as she limped slightly with a furrowed brow and tight lips.

My stubborn little sister skinned her knees again, Maggie. Lugh chuckled quietly.

If Aramanth’s in trouble, then I should be there too. She slipped her fingers through her long, silver hair and pulled it back tightly. Why do you always exclude me when it comes to your family? Maggie threw her hands in the air and sighed hard. Aramanth is a grown fucking woman! An old woman...or she should be anyway. And you’re.... who am I kidding? Neither of you are grownups! You’re both little kids playing games. Lugh, this whole thing with you and Aramanth... I don’t get it. You disappear for days, weeks, and nobody can reach you. We can never reach Aramanth, either. It’s weird, man. I’m not gonna sit back quietly, Lugh. Not this time. Maggie stopped pacing and folded her arms across her chest.

Lugh turned toward his wife who seemed to have aged 5 years in this one day, and held his hands in the air. He had no answers for her. Lugh sighed a heavy romantic sigh as he watched Maggie. He was mesmerized by her flowing dress swinging around her sandaled ankles, but more so by her silver hair draped around her shoulders. It was usually neatly pulled back from her face in a ponytail or a slick bun. Today, Maggie’s hair was uncombed, and hanging around her shoulders in messy waves that made her look youthful and slightly wild. Lugh loved that wild look on Maggie. It reminded him of the girl he met at Woodstock, with mud and flowers in her hair and peace in her heart.

In the last few years, however, Maggie lost her peace. She and Lugh both noticed the changes. The physical changes as well as the psychological ones. Maggie’s body was aging, slowly and with significant grace, but aging, nonetheless. It weighed heavy on her that although Lugh had matured over the years, he’d aged little. Lugh still looked like a man in his mid-30s. Maggie didn’t understand how that was possible, and began to question her own reality. More so, Lugh’s reality. She questioned Lugh’s honesty and faithfulness as well.

Maggie stared at Lugh with squinted eyes and tight lips, which accentuated the tiny lines around her eyes and mouth. Lugh smiled as he traced his fingertips along the wrinkles. He loved every line on Maggie’s face. He watched them form over the years, and was in awe at the changes that were taking place in Maggie’s body. He loved Maggie at every stage of her life, and although she was no longer the young girl he found at Woodstock, she still held Lugh’s heart in her slender, graceful hands. Maggie was Lugh’s Earth Goddess, the love of his life, but he felt her slipping away from him.

Aramanth needs her brother, Maggie. Can’t that be enough for ye? Just this once? Lugh flashed a radiant smile and tried to pull Maggie into his arms, but she resisted. She scanned Lugh’s boyish face and winced visibly. Maggie felt Lugh slipping away from her too, and that made her cling to him harder than ever. But Lugh was a free spirit and Maggie had little control over his actions. Lugh came and went as he pleased, and his family always seemed to take precedence over her.

No! It’s not enough! And it’s not just this once. It’s the same fucking story over and over, Lugh! When are you two gonna grow up? Aramanth needs a husband, dammit. She’s too old to be...why are you packing your new suit?

Maggie marched to the bed where Lugh had his wardrobe laid out neatly, then grabbed the suit from the bed.

Why the suit, Lugh? You’ve never taken a suit to Dublin before...except that once, when you weren’t really going to Dublin. Maggie’s eyes were bright with suspicion and pain.

Lugh hung his head and sighed. I said I’m going to Gael. I didn’t say Dublin. Lugh winked, but none of his charms were working on Maggie today.

Don’t play games with me, Lugh. I’m not in the fucking mood, and those baby blues aren’t gonna work this time. Where are you going? And why are you bringing your new suit? Maggie said through pursed lips.

I’m going to Gael...Ireland. The suit is for Declan’s... Lugh winced when he realized he spoke without thinking.

Declan? He’s been found? Lugh...they found Declan’s body? Oh my God...I’m coming with you. Why didn’t you tell me? I have to call the kids...we’re all going with you to the funeral.

Declan’s disappearance was Maggie’s worst nightmare. She’d spent the last thirty years leading an intense search for his whereabouts, and when she didn’t find a single trace of him anywhere on Earth, Maggie assumed he was dead and initiated a world-wide search for his body instead. Maggie made a start toward the phone while she cried softly, but Lugh stopped her.

Maggie...ye can’t come with me, lass. Lugh sighed and ran his hands through his hair while trying to think of a way out of his blunder.

Fuck that! I’m coming! I’m not going to let you go through this alone! Declan was my brother too, Lugh, Maggie said through thick tears. Baby, I’m so sorry...I know how much you loved Declan. I loved him too.

Maggie...Declan is alive, Lugh said softly.

He’s alive? Lugh! Then I am definitely coming with you! I have to see him! Maggie’s face lit up brightly as she wiped her tears. Where has he been? Was he hurt? Was he a hostage? In prison? For fuck’s sake, Lugh! What’s the story?

Lugh shrugged and held up his hands. I don’t know exactly. That’s why I want to go alone. No need to traumatize the kids, Maggie...until...until we know something for certain.

Maggie’s heart dropped as her suspicions grew. You just said he’s alive. You know something for certain, Lugh. What are you not telling me?

I’m telling ye everything I know. I need more information from Aramanth. That’s why I’m going to Gael. To find out what she knows.

Why can’t I come?

Mags, I wanna spend time with my sister. Just the two of us.

You said the same thing last time. She raised an eyebrow and squinted her eyes sharply. I swear to God, Lugh...if I find out you’re using your dead brother as an excuse... She let her words hang in the air, but Lugh understood the meaning.

Maggie...he’s not dead. Look...I know what ye’re thinking, and ye’re wrong. Baby, it was that one time. Only one time. And it’s been 30 fuckin years. Aramanth is...she found a clue and I’m... we’re going to look... we’re following a clue. That’s all. I swear it. Lugh pulled Maggie close to him despite her protests. He knew he was failing miserably at lying to her.

You’re lying, Lugh.

I love ye, Maggie May. Lugh grinned and gave her a sideways glance, but his remark made her cringe. She pulled away abruptly and glared at him with fire in her eyes.

Lugh shook his head and groaned softly. Irish lasses. What now? He didn’t want to leave Maggie in this mood. Lugh wasn’t certain he would come back. He knew the Elders would likely command him to resume his duties in Gael.

You know I hate it when you call me that. The song’s about an older woman, younger man. She paced and glared at him.

Mary Margaret Eamon, ye know good and well that’s been our song since the day we heard it on the radio... while we were making Farrell behind the barn. I still have splinters in my arse from that night. Lugh’s eyes shined when he looked down at her with a schoolboy grin.

Maggie remained stoic, however. She knew something was up. Lugh was trying too hard. He was too charming.

Lugh hung his head, sighed deeply, and once again apologized for his one indiscretion in their 56 years together.

Maggie, I’m sorry about the past. I swore I’d never do it again, and I haven’t broken that promise to ye. Haven’t I made it up to ye by now? I’m just going with Aramanth on a reconnaissance mission. That’s all. Lugh’s eyes were full of guilt over his lie, but Maggie read it as something more.

Why can’t I come? Maggie’s sea-green eyes were brimming with tears. She felt like she’d been hit in the gut. Every time Lugh went off on his mysterious retreats with Aramanth, she worried he would find a younger woman. Again.

Lugh was still strikingly handsome, and women threw themselves at him wherever they went. It didn’t bother Maggie when they were younger, because Lugh never paid attention to his beautiful admirers, except that once. Maggie tried hard to trust Lugh, but she couldn’t forget his tearful confession to the indiscretion all those years ago, and the turmoil that followed in the years afterwards.

It’s a family thing. Lugh tenderly kissed Maggie’s temple with a small sucking sound that usually made her smile. Maggie wasn’t having it today. Nothing could ease Maggie’s mind. She felt it in her bones that Lugh’s trip was somehow connected to that affair.

I’m Declan’s family too! I want to be there when he’s found!

Aaden’s coming back from Japan tomorrow, Mags. Ye need to be here for the lad.

You can postpone the trip one day, Lugh. Aaden and I can come with you if you wait a day. Aramanth will understand. Let me talk to her. Get her on the phone. I’ll ask her myself. Maggie hated the desperation in her voice, but she was desperate. She knew Lugh wasn’t telling the truth, and she was determined to get the truth out of him, even if she had to trick him into telling it.

Lugh squirmed a bit as he looked away from Maggie’s teary eyes. Again, she read more into this. She’s traveling, Maggie. I’m meeting her in Gael. Ye know I can never reach Aramanth on the spot. Can’t ye trust me this once? Lugh squirmed as he began to blush profusely.

Maggie’s heart sank when she noticed his odd blush. Trust you? How the fuck am I supposed to trust you when you can’t give me any answers? Things are not adding up. Maggie’s face turned hard as she glared at Lugh. Who is she?

Okay, okay...ye got me, Maggie. I’m madly in love. Ye wanna know who she is? Lugh turned Maggie toward the mirror, wrapped her in his arms and smiled broadly. There. That’s the woman I love.

Maggie tried to turn away from the mirror, but Lugh held her there. He rested his chin on her shoulder and grinned like a schoolboy.

Maggie...ye’re my bonny lass. The love of my life. There is no one else, I swear it. I’m just going to Gael to help Aramanth. Maggie couldn’t meet his eyes, and she could no longer look at herself in the mirror. Side by side against Lugh’s smooth and taut face, Maggie hated the old woman staring back at her. Maggie knew she wasn’t only losing her beauty, she was losing Lugh as well.

Stop it, Lugh. I’m not a ‘bonny lass’ anymore. I’m an old woman. And I’m not the love of your life either. Aramanth is. She broke free from Lugh’s grasp and headed toward the door, but stopped just before exiting and burst into tears. You’re lying to me, Lugh...and using your dead brother to cover it up!

He’s not dead, Maggie, Lugh said adamantly.

Haven’t I been a good wife to you? I’ve never been unfaithful, but you...

Mags, not again. It was 30 fucking years ago. There’s no other woman, Lugh said softly.

I don’t believe you. Why would Aramanth travel without you? And why won’t you let me come with you if this is about Declan? I’ll tell you why...because it’s bullshit. It’s not about Declan. This has something to do with that girl. You brought a suit on that trip too, Maggie said quietly, but her anger was seething. Lugh could see it bubbling up inside her. He wasn’t sure if he could pull off this ruse.

This has nothing to do with what happened in New Orleans. Lugh went too far in his last statement and he knew it. He was a terrible liar. He had an obvious tell that gave him away instantly. Lugh blushed bright red from the neck upward when he tried to lie, just like Amon. Lugh looked away as the blood rushed up his cheeks. He knew he’d just given himself away, and he knew this was the end.

You’re doing that weird blushing thing again. Maggie waved her fingers around her face, then put her hands on her hips and faced him directly, forcing him to look at her. Tell me the truth, for fuck’s sake!

Lugh closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and let it all the air out at once. Maggie... the girl...Marina...she’s not involved. Lugh paused and looked down at his shuffling feet before continuing. But Marina’s daughter is getting married. She asked me to be there, Lugh said softly, still looking at his feet.

Marina’s daughter? Maggie repeated softly. Why...why would Marina’s daughter want you at her wedding, Lugh? How does she even know you?

Lugh let out a long rush of air and faced Maggie head-on. Because... I’m her father, Mags.

Maggie sat hard on the edge of the bed while staring blankly into the open air as though watching her entire world shatter into a million shards she would never put back together again. She didn’t shed a single tear, and that scared Lugh more than anything.

Maggie, I know I should’ve told ye sooner. I didn’t want to hurt ye any more than ye already have been. Lugh said softly as he cupped Maggie’s bloodless cheeks in his hands. I’ll only be gone a week, baby. When I get back, I’ll tell ye everything, Lugh said desperately, but he knew this second confession was the last straw on Maggie’s back. He knew this was the end of his marriage, the end of his life as Lugh Eamon, the hippie farmer from Bethel Woods with 8 children, 3 grandchildren, 6 cows, 3 goats, 2 roosters, and 13 hens. Lugh knew the day would come, but he always thought he’d have more time. However, with the Revolution coming, Lugh had to make his exit sooner than expected. He wasn’t ready to let go of Maggie and his children. But Maggie’s face said it all. The end had come.

You lied about Declan! You know how much his disappearance has hurt me, and you used it against me! You fucking thick-headed arse of an Irish mule! You had a child with this woman! Your one-time affair with the little whore from New Orleans! How fucking odd that she got pregnant in that one night, that one time! Maggie glared at him with undisguised anger bordering on hatred in her eyes. You knew you had a daughter all this time...and your daughter knows you. How old is she? Does she call you ‘daddy’? It wasn’t just that one time, was it, Lugh? How many times did you fuck her mother? Maggie shoved Lugh away from her angrily, then stormed toward him with clenched fists. Were you with her...with them... when you were in New Orleans supposedly taking care of Declan’s house? Maggie spat out angrily. She knew she was being unreasonable, but she was furious at Lugh for keeping this secret, and for lying about Declan. Maggie felt her entire world crumbling, and she had nothing to hold onto while the ground dropped beneath her.

Lugh cleared his throat, and wasn’t quite sure how to tell Maggie Caraye’s age. It wouldn’t make sense to her that Caraye was older than she expected. He also had no idea how to explain to Maggie that he didn’t actually make love with Caraye’s mother. It was simply an exchange of bodily fluids. When Lugh and Aramanth formulated their plan to reincarnate Issa, he knew it would be harder to trace his actions if he went back in time. Apparently, he didn’t go back far enough. Lugh went to New Orleans, 1989, six years before Issa’s death, but there was no way to explain that to Maggie, and it wouldn’t erase the fact that he’d lied about the fruit of that affair.

"No, Maggie! I wasn’t with them, and it was just that one time. I haven’t laid eyes on Marina since 1989. Caraye is in her 30s, and she calls me Lugh, just like all our kids."

Our kids?! Maggie yelled. She’s not one of our kids, Lughnasa Eamon!

Lugh groaned loudly and doubled over as though he’d been hit in the gut. I know that, Maggie. I just meant...she’s no different.

She most certainly is different! Maggie tossed a glass vase at Lugh’s head, but he ducked in time. How did she find you, if you haven’t seen her in all these years?

Lugh shrugged his shoulders and couldn’t say a word as he winced and ran his hands through his hair.

You’ve seen her. You’ve been a father to her all this time? Thirty fucking years you kept this secret from me, Lugh! Maggie paced the room slowly and rubbed her forehead hard. Are you certain this girl is yours? Seriously, Lugh? She could be anyone’s daughter.

Lugh still couldn’t look at Maggie. He was full of guilt, and had no answers to give her. She’s my daughter, Maggie. I’m certain. Lugh’s eyes were tormented when he glanced up into Maggie’s sea-green eyes swimming with unshed tears.

How could you do this to me, Lugh? To us? Our family? The twins are the same age as your fucking bastard daughter. You scored big that year, didn’t you? Maggie spat out viciously.

Not fucking fair, Maggie. I understand ye’re angry, but don’t hate her. She didn’t ask for this. She doesn’t deserve your anger, Mags. She’s the victim in this whole thing, Lugh said resolutely.

She’s the victim? What am I? Did I go out and screw someone else? Did I conceive a child outside of our marriage bed? No! I am the fucking victim, Lugh!

Lugh turned his back on Maggie’s obvious pain, and continued to pack the remaining items on the bed without looking at her. Maggie was infuriated that he ignored her.

I swear to God, Lugh...if you leave me...if you get on that plane today...we are done. Don’t bother coming back if you go. Maggie set her jaw and squinted her eyes.

Maggie, ye don’t mean that. Don’t say things like that. Ye can’t take it back once it’s spoken. Lugh knew those words held more power than Maggie understood.

I’m not going to take it back, Lugh. I mean it. You have a choice to make. Our family or your bastard daughter? Maggie crossed her arms over her chest, then leaned against the wall. She wanted to stand up straight. She wanted to appear stern and tough, but her legs were weak.

She’s getting married, Maggie. She wants her father to walk her up the aisle. I can’t let her down. She’s waiting for me. It has nothing to do with Marina. Marina is gone. My daughter needs me. It’s her wedding day.

Her wedding day? You say that like it’s so fucking important! She’s a whore like her mother, Lugh. She’ll have other wedding days, I’m sure, Maggie said grimly.

Lugh turned and grabbed Maggie by the shoulders and shook her lightly. That’s enough! Ye don’t know her, Maggie. Don’t insult my daughter! Lugh spat out more harshly than he intended.

Get your hands off me, you fucking mule! Maggie shouted and slapped Lugh’s face so hard, it stung her hand.

I’m sorry, Maggie. Lugh had no other words, but Maggie had plenty of them.

What’s next, Lugh? You gonna invite your new daughter here for holidays? Attend the birth of every baby she spits out? Are we going to baby-sit for your bastard’s bastards? You gonna make her a permanent part of our family? What the fuck are you going to tell our kids, Lugh?

Lugh was in shock over Maggie’s harsh words, as well as the slap that left his cheek burning. He understood her anger and wanted to reassure her, but Lugh didn’t have the words to explain it all to Maggie. He had no way to explain to Maggie that his daughter was indeed becoming a permanent part of his family tomorrow after she married Declan.

I didn’t mean to hurt ye, Maggie. Please give me a week to work through this...

No! Maggie let out one deep sob. Don’t go, Lugh.

I have to. Lugh’s sapphire eyes pleaded with her to understand, but he saw only seething anger in her eyes. She needs me.

You son of a bitch! You fucking ruined my life, Lugh! You ruined our family! Maggie spat out through a clenched jaw as tears spilled over and ran down her cheeks.

Don’t be ridiculous. Nothing is ruined, for fuck’s sake. I’ll be back in a week. Lugh turned back to his packing, tossing a pair of warm socks then an unfolded T-shirt into his bag heavily. He hated that he’d been caught in his lie, but he had no choice. Aramanth was in trouble and desperately needed him. Declan needed him too.

Oh, I’m ridiculous now? Okay Lugh, looks like you made your choice. Go to your bastard daughter’s wedding. But don’t come back. I mean that, Lugh. If you leave this house...do not come back. Maggie stormed out of the bedroom and marched toward the front door of the farmhouse while Lugh followed with heavy steps.

No, Maggie...don’t say those words. Please, lass...let’s work this out. Don’t leave me like this.

You’re the one leaving, Lugh! But this is the last fucking time. We are finished. I’ll file for divorce if you leave. I mean it.

Lugh’s face crumbled and his eyes teared up, but Maggie wasn’t moved by Lugh’s tears this time. She stood stoically with her arms crossed over her chest.

What’s it gonna be, Lugh? Aaden? Or her?

Lugh hung his head and let out a low growl. You’re not playing fair pitting Aaden against her like that, Maggie! I know Aaden will understand. I know my children, and not a single one of them will turn their back on me...nor her.

Okay, then Lugh...let me put you to the final test. Your bastard daughter...or me?

Lugh’s face fell as he doubled over in agony. I can’t get out of it, Maggie. Give me a fucking week, ye stubborn Irish lass!

Get out of my house! Don’t ever come back, Maggie spat out as she grabbed her keys and purse, then stormed out the door. She jumped into the car, and sped away in a cloud of dust.

Lugh watched her leave, knowing it would probably be the last time he would see her. He didn’t want it to end like this, but he had to go now. Lugh was still bound by the rules of the Cambion Project. When humans asked, or commanded an Incubus to leave, they had to leave. Lugh’s time on Earth was up.

Lugh groaned loudly when he thought about what this breakup would do to his children. Especially Aaden, the straggler kid who was just beginning to test his wings in the world. Aaden was a cocky lad with big dreams of adventure, yet a scared boy on his first flight from the nest when he left for a summer in Japan. Lugh desperately wanted to witness Aaden’s transformations first-hand, as it would be the last time he would witness a child of his morphing into adulthood. Aaden, the golden-haired, fiery-tempered, romantic 7th son, and the spit of Lugh, was all he could think of at the moment. His other children had grown into cocoon-like lives of their own, safe, happy, and well-situated in the world, but Aaden was still tied to Lugh and Maggie’s nest. He’d just gone out for his first journey, and would need Lugh more than ever to shoulder him through the metamorphoses ahead.

Lugh walked toward the photos of his children on the shelf, and gently touched the faces of each of them. He picked up the photograph of Aaden and ran his finger along Aaden’s smiling face. Lugh’s tears ran freely down his cheeks. He wished he could say goodbye to Aaden. He had so little time with his youngest son.

I already miss ye so much, Aaden, Lugh whispered. I’m gonna miss seeing that bouncy swagger when ye step off the plane, lad. I have no doubt ye’ve changed a wee bit since ye left. He winced and sighed heavily. I was looking forward to hearing your stories. Lugh held his hand over his face, and rubbed his beard dry. I’ll be back for ye, Aaden. I will hear those fuckin stories. I swear it. He chuckled, and kissed the photograph. No doubt more than one of your stories will involve a lass or two. Ye’re just like Declan, always the Romeo. He grinned and tucked the photo under his arm.

Lugh picked up trinkets and small photos of his 8 children and 3 grandchildren, and packed them into his suitcase. He packed everything from his closet and chest of drawers before he reluctantly took off his wedding ring and placed it on the dresser near a photograph of him at Maggie at Woodstock. Lugh picked up the photo and kissed it tenderly, then packed it along with the others.

Lugh turned to look around his house one last time and smiled sadly as the memories of his life in this house flashed in his mind. He heard the laughter of his children as images of them running through the house appeared around him. He saw Caitlyn taking her first steps toward him in the hallway, then the image shifted to her walking toward him in her wedding dress. Lugh let out a soft sob, and held his hand out to the image that drifted back into a sad memory as it disappeared into a cloud of smoke. He saw Aaden and Cullen sparring in the hallways in one of their epic mock battles that Aaden always won, even as a small child. He saw Farrell, Lorcan, and Logan digging in his marijuana stash box, and chuckled softly. He looked at the sofa, and saw Maggie sitting with Kenan and Kody on either side of her, sucking their thumbs loudly while she played an out of tune song on her bagpipe, and he did an Irish jig for their entertainment. He looked at the dinner table and saw his sons fighting over the last slices of Maggie’s homemade bread, then Maggie appearing at the table like an answered prayer, carrying a fresh loaf the boys gobbled up in seconds. Lugh laughed aloud at that memory and wiped the tears from his cheeks again.

Mary Margaret Eamon, ye’ve been a good wife. We raised 8 beautiful bairns and a whole lotta hell. I’ll see ye again in Gael, my love. Even if it’s just a moment while ye pass through.

Lugh’s heart was heavy as he walked toward the barn to the secret stairwell and the hieroglyphic symbol that would take him back to Gael. Back to his life in the God Colonies where he would fight a Revolution against the human creatures he’d lived among, and loved, for 56 years.

Chapter Two

L

et’s do a 60’s style with a beehive bun. Or maybe a slick bouffant. She’s got that cat-girl look. She can definitely pull off a retro style," Raven said excitedly while running her fingers through Caraye’s hair.

No, leave her hair down. In messy, free-flowing curls. We all know Declan’s gonna wanna run his hands through it. You guys know how he is. He can’t keep his hands out of her hair, Jade said with a chuckle.

We gotta leave room for the tiara. Let’s do a soft braid, with a few tendrils around her shoulders. Declan can play with that, Mia said in a happy, but resolute tone. Both Raven and Jade objected, but Mia insisted that they leave enough room for the crown Declan would place upon Caraye’s head after they said their vows to signify that she was Gael’s future Queen, Declan’s first wife.

The girls argued about a hairstyle fit for a Queen for over an hour while Caraye sat stiff and motionless to avoid wrinkling or smudging herself. She was in a silk slip with perfect make-up, but her hair was a colossal mess of fire-snakes no one could tame today. Caraye was blissfully silent and dreamy-eyed while the girls tugged and twisted her hair in a hundred different directions. She didn’t mind the attention or the pulling, combing, curling, and brushing of her hair; she was hardly aware of it. Caraye stared into the mirror, but she didn’t see herself. She saw Declan’s face in a dozen different scenarios, and was mesmerized by the sparkle of his eyes and familiarity of his smile in each one. She was certain that today was a dream. Caraye would not only marry the love of her life in this beautiful dream Palace made entirely of Crystal, but she would also finally meet her father. This was more than a dream. This was all her dreams, hopes, wishes, fantasies, and fears merging into one enormous reality.

Does anyone else think it’s strange that I’m marrying my father’s brother? Is that even legal in the states? she blurted out suddenly.

Mia chuckled and nodded. Yeah, this is a little weird. But we ain’t in the states, Caraye. They do things a little differently up here in the God Colonies. She smoothed out Caraye’s wedding dress laying across the bed, then smiled at her in the mirror. You ready to meet your daddy? You’ll be looking like a princess wearing this masterful work of thread art. This dress is beyond fine, sister. This is the ethereal work of angels...the deft hand of God’s wife sewing on every button, every sequin, and crystal bead...and dat ain’t even sequins and beads, Caraye. This shit here is real diamonds! Real fucking diamonds! Ya daddy’s rich, but ya sister’s just good looking, so remind ya pops that he owes ya some child support, then slip me some cash for one of these diamond dresses. Mia let out a loud laugh. Caraye couldn’t help giggling too, but she was in a foggy, giddy haze and would have laughed at anything at this moment.

I wonder what he’s like. Is he funny like Declan? Stern like Marduk? Shy like Amon? I can’t wait to finally meet him, Caraye said as she drifted off into a romantic bubble.

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LUGH WALKED BESIDE Declan in synchronized steps, slightly bouncy and long, as they entered the Great Hall amidst a wave of gasps and sighs. Lugh didn’t really hear them, but he felt them. It was his first taste of home in half a century, but he was too deep in his own head to appreciate it. He was mentally preparing himself to walk his daughter up the aisle to the brother he loved enough to risk his marriage for, and his mind raced with thoughts of the plan he and Aramanth hashed out in his barn 30 years ago.

Lugh arrived in New Orleans during Mardi Gras 1989. The city was full of women looking for lovers, but Lugh didn’t want those women. He wanted to find the mark, and go back home to his wife and kids.

He knew the moment he saw Marina that she was his mark. She opened like a spring flower when Lugh sat next to her and struck up a polite conversation. Her pale cheeks flushed beautifully, and her golden hair glowed from the sunrays bouncing around her head. Lugh found himself more attracted to her than he wanted to be. Marina was a beautiful young woman, but this was nothing more than a commission to save his brother. Caraye was created as a disposable. All parties involved wanted the spirit of Issa, not the body of the human girl.

Aramanth’s statistical calculations showed a 90% chance that Declan would recognize the spirit of Issa, and then do whatever it took to bring Issa back, but nothing went according to plan. Caraye had been marked by the Lesser Gods, the Elders placed Declan directly in her path, and Declan fell in love with the blood mark. Despite the 90% statistical probability, Declan still hadn’t recognized Issa’s spirit.

Lugh thought he had planned the commission to perfection, and was certain Maggie would never know about his indiscretion. But Lugh made one mistake. He forgot about the strip of silly photos he and Marina took in a photo booth the night before he left her. Maggie found the photos in his suit pocket, and Lugh couldn’t hold his guilt; he confessed to the affair that nearly ruined his marriage, and finally did ruin it.

Lugh and Declan stood together in the lobby of the Great Hall as they greeted the guests offering their most sincere congratulations and happy toasts for a long and happy marriage. Everyone in the State of Tosú was here for this event, even the Servants, as well as the Guards and Soldiers. This would be the last night of freedom for the Army of Gael for a long while. Tomorrow, they were going to be dispatched on a journey to Marbh to rescue Aramanth. Today, however, everyone in Gael was in a starry-eyed haze. The romantic and heroic First Son of Gael was finally claiming a Queen.

Declan looked extraordinarily handsome in his tightly fitted single-button, virgin wool and satin-lined tuxedo suit with notched satin lapels, shiny black Oxfords, stark white, stiffly starched cotton shirt, and a silver bow-tie that shined like new stars under the candlelight in the Great Hall. Declan’s suit accentuated his broad shoulders, tapering down to his slim waist, and the flat-front trousers fit perfectly over his thick, muscular thighs. Declan’s unruly hair was tame tonight, hanging loosely around his shoulders in silky waves. Every wave was in perfect place today, and shined like hombre silk.

Lugh wore a navy-blue suit, with a silver shirt and midnight-blue tie. The handsome Sons of Amon were back together again in Gael, and all the Duchesses and Princesses in the room were flushed, and couldn’t take their eyes off them.

Cain and Killian stood together at the altar, in black suits, blood-red shirts, and black bow-ties. Cain held Caraye’s delicate silver tiara of tiny sculpted leaves and rose buds made of diamonds, with a single tear-drop sapphire in the center. Killian held the silver wedding bands, as well as the golden chalice the bride and groom would drink from after the vows were spoken.

Marduk and Lilith strolled slowly along the aisle together, arm-in arm in public for the first time since the Gathering. Lilith was the only person Marduk slowed his pace for. He enjoyed taking long slow walks as mere accompaniment to her perfection while parading her through her adoring fans. Tonight was no exception. Lilith was stunning in a red silk gown that hugged her body like a second skin, and fanned out into a bell shape at her ankles. Her hair was delicately curled, hanging loose around her shoulders. Marduk had a hard time keeping his hands out of her hair. He held his arms and shoulders stiff while Lilith played her role to perfection, waving graciously as she clung to Marduk’s arm.

I love the Gaels, she said breathlessly.

Marduk smirked and cast her a playful eye. I know ye do, Lilith. Ye’re perpetually in love with anyone who loves ye more than ye love yourself.

That’s not true. I love you, Marduk, although you no longer love me. She sighed heavily, then cast him a seductive grin.

"Not falling for it, mo ghrá. Marduk said in an ominous tone. He scanned her from ankle to breast and back again, then smiled crookedly. Ye look stunning tonight, Lilith. Every inch a Queen."

She smiled brilliantly and rested her head against his arm. I will behave every minute like a Queen as well, Marduk. For your sake.

Don’t do a thing for my sake, Lilith. I intend to do the same...for your sake. Marduk winked, then scowled when her eyes watered like a scared, lost child. But he managed to look away in time, toward a group of pink-cheeked redheads staring at him in open adoration. Marduk smiled devilishly at them, blew a finger-tip kiss, then blinked himself into a stoic, regal persona and picked up his pace a half step.

Despite his stoic demeanor, Marduk was regally handsome in a formal black vest and tailed waistcoat, a black silk tie, and blood-red shirt tucked neatly into his black kilt. His heavy silver sporran covered the ebb and flow of his kilt as Lilith snuggled closer to him, smiling and waving at the Duchesses eyeing him dreamily.

The lasses have their eyes on you, Marduk.

Marduk grinned and shrugged. Only the ones with good taste.

Lilith giggled. I suppose I have been on the wrong side of that category more than once in the life of our marriage.

Understatement of the fuckin century, Lilith.

Can you not find it in your heart to forgive me one more time, Marduk?

Not tonight, he said darkly.

Lilith knew better than to cross that mood, but she couldn’t help the rush of passion that swirled around her red dress at the idea of a night in bed with Marduk’s dark mood.

Lilith was still banned from Marduk’s bed, as well as his table, but they both played their roles to perfection today. Only the two of them knew they were farther apart than they’d ever been, emotionally. Physically, however, they were side-by-side with no daylight between them, and neither could take their eyes off the other as Marduk finally led Lilith into the Royal booth on the right side of the altar.

Cain watched them from the altar and wanted to believe they’d found their way back to each other again. He hoped his presence in the Colony had something to do with their rekindling romance. But he clearly saw Marduk’s distance and his discomfort. He knew there was more to their story, and this was just a front. He also knew Marduk and Lilith loved each other enough to overcome another obstacle in their life path, but he wanted to help it along this time, rather than drive the wedge farther.

Cain caught Lilith’s eye, and smiled sweetly at her, then nodded his approval of her apparent loyalty to Marduk. She blew him a kiss and linked her arm with Marduk who stared back at Cain with a stoic face. Cain didn’t look away or cower under Marduk’s harsh glare. He smiled genuinely until Marduk finally lifted one corner of his lips and nodded at Cain.

Marduk took a deep breath and opened his heart a little to the son he thought he’d lost forever. Marduk wasn’t sure how long it would all last or if it was even real, but he decided to ride the wave and enjoy the moment as it was.

The highly adorned Dukes and Duchesses of Gael and Dorcha strolled through the Great Hall that was lit by 10,000 candles, with wide smiles and romantic overtures toward each other as the crystal walls absorbed the light, and gave back a fiery, pink glow that illuminated the millions of red and white rose petals covering the long aisle. The scent of roses and the soft candlelight sent an erotically charged energy throughout the room.

Marduk took it all in, and smiled devilishly as he waved his fingers a third time, which sent the Princes in the balconies into a romantic haze as they stared dreamily at the Princesses in the adjacent balconies.

Are you spinning your webs again, Marduk? Lilith asked in a sultry voice and leaned in closer to him.

He smirked cooly as he draped one arm around her shoulder, and finally touched her hair. Aye. It’s my duty as the King of the Incubi. He smiled and almost leaned in to kiss her, but remembered his game and pulled away, but kept his arm around her.

Lilith smiled sadly. Marduk, my romantic devil, she whispered softly. I am so in love with you.

Marduk sucked his teeth and pulled his arm from Lilith’s shoulder. I need a fuckin drink.

Lilith watched him walk away, and felt a sting in her chest she’d never felt before. Every Duchess in the room watched Marduk march through the Great Hall with his kilt swinging wilder than usual. Lilith knew she had to win him back tonight, while he was away from Maeve, and in a romantic mood. She was determined to play the role of loyalty and dutiful wife today, so she could lure him back into her bed. Lilith knew the game would be over then, and Marduk would be hers again.

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LUGH LIGHTLY TOUCHED Declan’s arm and led him away