Something Wicked This Way Comes, Volume 2

Author Note

The familiar Greek myth of the Minotaur shares its ancestry with a far older tradition that stretches back to cave art from Crete’s Neolithic period. Once upon a time, in the earliest years of the Bronze Age, mighty Minoa, the greatest trading power in the Aegean, worshipped a divine star being who allegedly came to Earth to live among them.

“Asterion” literally means “star”, and is strongly associated with Bronze Age Minoan kings, who, in order to rule, were said to take the form of the Cretan bull of the sun.

The exact beliefs of Bronze Age Minoans can only be guessed, but archeologists have discovered bronze coins stamped with Asterion’s image. The coins often depict a kneeling bull-king along with a star-shaped flower and possibly the constellation Taurus. It is speculated the coins are attempting to show Asterion’s divine place on both Earth and amongst the stars.

Old stories are like coins—they always have two sides. Asterion is my side of the coin. It’s a highly speculative and purely fictional tale of a young woman’s encounter with one of the original Asterion…

Chapter One

The deep Aegean, which had been a brilliant blue early in the morning, was now a dark, glassy mirror. A heavy layer of fog obscured the sun. The morning’s brisk wind had stilled and the square sail on the tiny fishing skiff hung slack from the mast.

Larisa huddled at the front of the small craft, glaring hatefully at her captor as he laboriously rowed the skiff into the dense fog. It was just she and Catullus, alone on the sea.

Wily old Catullus was the village’s newly self-elected chief. He was stout, soft-limbed and the journey was taking an obvious toll on his stamina. But Larisa couldn’t help him row even if she were so inclined. He’d bound her wrists tightly and tethered her to the boat to prevent her from leaping overboard and drowning herself.

Catullus sweated profusely as he rowed, and she wondered how long he could endure the exhausting task. He closed his eyes and groaned in heaving agony as the paddles seemed to cling to the surface of the water.

Larisa took advantage of his distraction and leaned slightly to dangle her bound wrists in the soothing water. Her long brown ringlets fell around her face like a veil. As she leaned farther, her slight movement caused the boat to dip.

Catullus’ eyes flew open in alarm. “What are you doing?” He leaned forward and yanked Larisa upright. “No tricks. I have my eyes on you. I’ll not be cheated of my tribute to King Minos.”

Her gaze narrowed. “Do you really believe that showing up uninvited on the palace steps—with an unsolicited sacrifice to the Minotaur—is going to make you a great favorite with King Minos? I think it makes you look desperate.”

Disdain spread across Catullus’ face. “There is a higher purpose to my plan, which I don’t expect you to understand. I can be of service to King Minos. I’m tired of living in a dusty little village, separated from the powerful world I should be part of.”

“What would King Minos want with your services? You think only of yourself. You’re a traitor to your own village.”

“Warfare has reduced our village to women, children and frail old men.” Catullus huffed in disgust. “We can’t survive another surprise attack from the Aetolians. Given how brutally our neighbors have treated us of late, I’m strongly inclined to seek the favor and protection of King Minos. I’m certain he’ll welcome the added wealth from our realm—which I can now provide, thanks to the rich orchards and fields you forfeit.

“My generous gift of land and a feminine sacrifice for the Minotaur will no doubt earn me an honored residence within the Palace of Knossos. I’m looking forward to my new life, and I’m sure King Minos will be more appreciative of my refined qualities than those of the doddering fools in our village.”

“What refined qualities? You truly think mighty King Minos is in need of another scheming opportunist to slobber at his feet? If he is, he’ll be delighted to meet you.”

“How dare you! I am your elder and chief.” Catullus’ face flushed with rage. “You speak too freely and say too much—both are poor qualities in a woman.”

“You stole my land! It’s not yours to give. And don’t think I’m unaware you cheated at lots. I know I was deliberately given the shortest straw.” Larisa looked away before a tear streaked down her cheek. She’d already been tricked, robbed and sentenced to death. The last thing she wanted to do was give Catullus the satisfaction of seeing her cry.

The dense fog hovering above the surface of the sea was now so oppressive, the daytime sky appeared dusk. “You don’t even know where we’re going, do you? You’re just rowing into the fog. How do you even know the tiny island we glimpsed on the horizon this morning was King Minos’ island? My father said Minoa was a two-day journey from our shore and that there were countless islands in the Aegean.”

“Don’t speak of your father!” Catullus snapped.

“Why? Could it be you dread to hear the truth? That my father, Chief of Kreios, was a braver man and better leader to our tribe than you’ll ever be?” Larisa stealthily slid her foot across the floorboards of the boat, hoping to catch her toe on an amphora of water and steal a sip before Catullus snatched it away, as he’d done all day. She licked her parched lips in frustration as she tried several times to reach the clay jar but failed.

Catullus protectively slid the amphora beyond Larisa’s reach. “What little water we have is for me. I’m doing all the hard work.”

“Wouldn’t it have been easier to pay those fishermen we met this morning to row us to the correct island, instead of stealing their boat?”

“Why pay when I can do it myself?” Perspiration trickled down Catullus’ round face. “Besides, I couldn’t allow you to tell your sad story to the fishermen and attempt to recruit their help. As you can see, I’ve thought of everything. It’s true that I am unaccustomed to the sea, but it is the slight price I pay for being a warrior of the mountains.”

“You’re no warrior!” Larisa scoffed. “Your own son foolishly blurted out that you turned and fled from battle, while the real warriors of our tribe stayed to fight and lost their lives. Ares said you hid inside a hollow log while the battle raged past. It was your cowardice that saved your life during the last devastating conflict, not your swordsmanship. The sole reason anyone in our village would consider you chief is because you’re the last mature man left alive. It’s certainly not your valor that recommends you. My father and my betrothed, Alecto, died with honor. You have none.”

“Shut your mouth!” Catullus stopped rowing just long enough to focus a look of utter loathing on Larisa. “It didn’t have to be this way. I want you to know, it was your vicious tongue that condemned you to the labyrinth. If not for your steady stream of poisonous words, I might not have been forced to dispose of you. Had you respected my new station in life, instead of railed against it, we might have peacefully lived together.”

Larisa scowled. “I’d rather die than share your bed.”

“Your death is coming soon enough. You can be certain of that.” Catullus dipped the oars back into the water and rowed. His black gaze became beady. “Before I hand you over to the Minotaur, maybe I’ll help myself to what Alecto never had the chance to claim on his wedding night.”

“Wouldn’t that defeat the purpose of a virgin sacrifice?”

“Would a grunting, bull-headed beast even know the difference as it rips its jagged teeth into your flesh?” Catullus paused for effect. “I think not.”

“A grunting beast? Are you referring to yourself?”

The boat scraped against a partially submerged rock as it drifted into a narrow inlet. A gravel beach and steep cliffs came into view as the lapping surf ran the boat aground with a jolt. Larisa realized the ocean current, if not Catullus’ lackluster rowing, had carried them to an island.

She looked upward as the fog lifted—and saw a dazzling palace, with ornately painted columns and frescoed walls that shimmered in vibrant shades of earthy red, golden ochre, turquoise and green. The entire palace was ablaze with colors and patterns unlike anything she’d ever seen. The elegant palace crowned the cliffs in majestic silence.

“It’s so beautiful.” She stared in awe, noticing there was not a living thing in sight. “And so lonely.”

“Where is everyone?” Catullus grumbled. “Do they not have an official to greet visiting dignitaries from the mainland?”

“You’re not a dignitary,” Larisa sniffed. “Perhaps they don’t welcome uninvited guests, and at this very moment have a row of hidden archers poised on those cliffs with their razor-tipped arrows aimed at your heart.”

Catullus gasped in horror and dropped to the floor of the boat to cower.

Larisa laughed at his antics as Catullus curled into a ball. “I’m sorry there’s no hollow log on this beach for you to hide inside.”

“You weren’t there,” Catullus snarled. “You have no idea. The Aetolians are bloodthirsty brutes.”

“Yet my father, Alecto and other brave men stood their ground and fought back. That’s the only reason Kreios didn’t fall to the Aetolians. Ares told me he watched the men charge the enemy with swords slashing before he ran off to search for you.”

The eerie lowing of a bull echoed against the cliffs.

The tiny hairs on the back of Larisa’s neck bristled, and she looked up.

A towering figure with the head of a bull appeared at the top of the cliff. Dressed in a flowing black robe, the horned figure seemed to look down at them.

Catullus glanced upward with bulging eyes. “Is that the Minotaur?” His bottom lip quivered in terror as he scooted toward the back of the boat. “Is it possible the Minoans allow such a vicious creature to roam freely?”

The figure lifted a wing-like sleeve high into the air and appeared to beckon them toward a staircase carved into the side of the cliff.

“It’s not the Minotaur, you fool.” Larisa thrust her wrists forward to be untied. “It’s some sort of priest wearing a mask. He wants us to climb the stairs.”

Catullus froze. “Perhaps this was a mistake. Maybe we should leave…” His hands reached for the oars and rowed backward, but the paddles merely scraped beach pebbles and the boat didn’t budge.

The priest addressed them in a booming voice. “Is that young woman a bride for the labyrinth?”

“Yes.” Catullus’ head bobbed nervously. He turned toward Larisa and mumbled, “Bride? A sacrificial ritual isn’t a wedding. What an odd way to phrase something so brutal. These Minoans are very strange people…I’m not sure I want to meet them.”

The priest pulled a golden dagger from its sheath and pointed the blade toward Catullus. “Bring her into the palace. The Master shall judge you both.”

“Yes, my lord.” Catullus immediately unknotted the rope that tethered Larisa to the boat, his face filled with fear. “By all that’s dark in Hades, I don’t want to go up there! This place is so foreboding. I have a sickening feeling in the pit of my gut—this island is doomed. I want to leave.”

“This was your idea. You brought me here to die. What did you expect?”

Catullus spoke through tensed lips. “I was hoping for something less somber and intimidating, more along the lines of a festive royal court.”

Larisa rolled her eyes. “I’m not a bit surprised. This is exactly what I was expecting.”

“Don’t delay.” The priest’s deep voice rang over the cliffs. “The Master knows you’re here. Asterion waits.” He turned and walked away.

Catullus trembled as he stepped out of the shallow boat and offered Larisa his hand.

Larisa lifted her bound wrists expectantly. “Untie my wrists too.”

Catullus stared at the leather thong around Larisa’s wrists and shook his head. “I don’t dare. If you run away again, the way you did in the village, I’m certain these people will kill me.”

“What you’ve done to me is wrong. I’m proud I gave you a hard chase. It’s not my fault you can’t run uphill.” She ignored Catullus offered hand, which hung unclaimed in the air, and rose from the boat unassisted. “I’m thirsty. May I have water?”

Catullus frowned. “Why bother? Your life will be over soon.” He unstopped the clay amphora, held it to his lips and tipped his head back to swallow the last of the water.

A bull’s bellowing roar shook the earth from within and made the tiniest pebbles on the beach leap and shiver.

Catullus dropped the empty jar to the ground. “What was that? It sounded like it came from inside the island!”

“That sounds like doom to me.” Larisa’s lips curled with a slight smile. “The great difference between you and me is, I’m not afraid to die. When I cross the river Styx, I’ll see my mother, father and Alecto again. Who will you meet in Hades—other wretched souls? I’m certain you can expect to be seated beside the most miserable men in Hades’ cowards’ corner.”

“Shut your mouth and get moving.” Catullus took hold of the rope tether, still tied to Larisa’s bound wrists, and used it like a leash to drag her toward a twisting flight of steps carved into the cliffside.

“Slow down.” Larisa tugged against the tether as her sandaled feet crunched across the shifting rocks. Catullus pulled her forward as if leading a stubborn mule. With her wrists tied in front of her, it became more difficult to balance with each uncertain stride. The hem of her linen tunic swept against the wet, mossy rocks, and soon looked as damp and green as the many tidal puddles on the beach.

“Hurry up,” Catullus goaded. “Let’s get this over with.”

“Ah, you no longer sound so keen on taking up residence in the royal palace.” She stumbled forward a few more steps. “What changed your mind? Was it the island’s gloomy atmosphere? You should give it a chance,” she heckled. “Perhaps you’ll enjoy sharing sleeping quarters with that bull-masked priest and his razor-sharp dagger. Sweet dreams.”

Catullus gave the tether a swift yank. “I’m done talking to you.”

Larisa’s eyes scanned the shallow tide pools as she walked. At the edge of one pool was a golden rock the perfect shape of a star. She stopped abruptly and knelt beside the pool, forcing Catullus to stop as well. She leaned down to touch the odd stone with the tip of her finger but the moment she came into contact with it, the star curled away from her and slowly crept toward the center of the pool.

She gasped in surprise. “That rock is a live animal! It’s not what I thought it was at all.”

“Who cares?” Catullus hauled Larisa to her feet and pushed her toward the stairs that zigzagged up the cliff.

The steps were narrow and the climb precarious. Larisa looked only at her feet, refusing to glance at the jagged rocks below, but at last they reached the top of the cliff, where the full splendor of the palace was revealed.

The structure was tremendous, far larger than the village of Kreios, with columns as tall and thick as giant trees and rooms stacked upon rooms, with staircases leading up and out. The colorful patterns glimpsed from the beach were actually beautifully depicted scenes of men and women dancing, fantastical sea creatures with large round eyes—and everywhere Larisa looked, powerful outlines of charging bulls. All the outer walls were covered in bulls with sweeping horns, leaping over stars.

The palace was visually stunning but oppressively silent. There were no attendants, no spiraling smoke from a cook fire, not even a cat or dog resting in the shade. There was not a soul in sight. “Where do you think the priest went?” Larisa’s whispered words echoed ominously against the palace’s smooth walls.

“I don’t know but I’m glad he’s no longer around.” Catullus nervously approached a grand temple. “Something about him was not right. He gave me the shivers.”

They climbed glittering white marble steps, which led to a hall of carved red columns that looked like a forest of delicately painted trees.

The interior of the hall was spacious and airy. Thousands of tiny oil lamps flickered in niches surrounding a large shrine at the front of the hall, ornamented with a massive bull’s head carved from glossy blue-black obsidian. The bull had beautiful, compassionate eyes and a golden star in the center of its forehead. Its ivory horns were trimmed with gold and lapis lazuli, and reached so wide they brushed each side of the hall.

“Why have you come to the Palace of Asterion?” A deep male voice echoed around them, seeming to emanate from all directions at once.

“Is this not King Minos’ palace?” Catullus squeaked.

“No!” the voice thundered. “This is not a palace of the living. For years, no one has come to this island—and that is how we want it.”

Larisa turned, looking all around her, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious speaker.

“The Palace of Asterion is a dangerous place.” The disembodied voice rose higher. “We moved our people away nearly a generation ago. No one resides here any longer, except for the guardian priests who have pledged to die with the island. How did you find the island through the enchanted fog?”

Larisa dared to speak. “Our boat found the island.”

The voice softened. “What is your name, woman?”

“Larisa of Kreios.”

The voice dropped in volume and spoke calmly. “Larisa, I’m told you are to be offered to the labyrinth. Do you have a lover or any living family?”

“No.” She answered quietly and waited through an uncomfortably long silence. She nervously held her breath until her pulse throbbed in her temples.

“I will accept this woman.” The voice echoed against the ceiling. “Bring Larisa to the labyrinth.”

The masked priest approached from behind a shadowy column and claimed the tether from Catullus. No hands were visible; only voluminous fabric reached forward.

Larisa stared into the priest’s face, trying to catch a glimpse of eyes behind the mask, and was startled to see there were none. There appeared to be no human beneath the mask and robe, only a vaporous blackness that somehow managed to hold the costume aloft. Her spine shivered at the sight.

“What about me?” Catullus cautiously approached the shrine. “I’ve suffered much hardship to deliver a fine sacrifice to the labyrinth. Is there a reward for my efforts?”

“Yes,” the voice hissed. “You shall be returned to your boat and cast toward your shore. Should you make any attempt to return to the island, a one-eyed, eight-limbed sea monster will snatch you from the boat and drag you to the coldest, darkest depths of the sea.”

Catullus blanched. “I receive nothing?”

The voice remained silent.

The priest’s flowing sleeve silently pointed toward the exit. Catullus looked mortified as he turned and quickly strode from the palace.

The priest gave Larisa’s tether a gentle tug to urge her forward. She looked carefully for evidence of hands or feet, but again saw none as he silently led her through a maze of columns and polished hallways. They finally arrived at a fragrant garden courtyard filled with the most varied herbs and exotic fruit trees Larisa had ever seen.

An ornate mosaic pathway twisted through the elegant gardens, past pear trees and banks of star-shaped flowers. The path ended abruptly at a rocky field of charcoal-gray pumice that stood naked beneath a slate sky. No living thing grew beyond the path. The rocky field’s only distinguishing feature was a large mound topped with a stone statue twice the height of a man, which appeared to be a crescent moon lying on its back. Larisa peered closely at the crescent and realized she was actually looking at a weathered carving of horns. A row of blazing torches led to the statue, sending slender swirls of black smoke curling into the humid air.

The priest stepped onto the rocky field and walked toward the statue.

Larisa was forced to walk behind, each footstep on the chaotically shifting rocks precarious. She watched in awe as the priest strode easily ahead without displacing a single stone.

They followed the torches to the far side of the mound, where a rocky alcove contained what appeared to be a torch-lit doorway sealed with a stone slab. The slab bore the image of a bull. The priest stepped forward, pressed a star carved into the forehead of the animal and the slab shifted with a terrible grating before pivoting open. A rush of cool air escaped through the dark doorway.

Larisa glanced past the priest’s shoulder to the tomblike sanctum beyond. The torches barely lit the darkness of what appeared to be a vast subterranean cavern.

The priest picked up a torch with an unseen hand and motioned for Larisa to walk through the doorway.

She realized this was the entrance to the dreaded labyrinth…

A loud rumble, like the roar of a titanic beast, shook the earth. Fate was mere footsteps away. Her knees trembled as the first jolt of true, primal fear gripped her.

Larisa came to a halt. “Draw your dagger and kill me now!” she pleaded. “Show mercy before you throw my body to the creature.”

The priest turned his head and spoke in a voice that sounded as if he were whispering through a hollow reed. “It is you who must show mercy to Asterion. For years this island sat in isolation, deliberately hidden beyond view and reach of all, and yet you found it. Your flesh and blood shall make the Star Bull whole. Through your sacrifice, that which has solely been spirit can now become flesh. Our last Asterion can cross the island portal before it is destroyed. This is a great day.”

Larisa frowned in confusion, not comprehending much of anything the priest had said. A roar louder than the most violent thunderstorm erupted from deep within the earth and left her heart pounding.

“Asterion wants you. It’s meant to be.” The priest led her past the doorway and onto the steps of the cave. “Follow me.”

She stepped into the dimly lit entrance, using timid taps of her foot to carefully guide herself down the steeply sloping path. She’d taken only a few steps when the priest suddenly turned back and sealed the doorway behind them. Larisa gasped as the stone slab pivoted shut with a grate of stone on stone, trapping them inside and denying all daylight.

“There’s no going back.” The priest’s voice was a faint whisper. “Stay close.”

Except for a ring of light surrounding the torch, the darkness beyond was unfathomable. As they descended into the depths of the cavern, the air became cool and dank. The smoke from the torch stung her eyes. Her shoulder brushed against a clump of clingy roots and the almost hairy texture made her recoil in horror.

After a long descent, they reached a level floor. The faint sound of dripping water echoed from within an immense-feeling cavern. The torch illuminated a small area of floor and a tall, sturdy-looking stone column, which the priest steered her toward. Atop the column was another head of a bull carved in stone, this one with a heavy bronze ring through its nose.

The priest set the torch near the column. His sleeves reached toward Larisa. “Rise.”

She gasped in shock as her wrists rose as if by magic. The priest deftly secured her bound wrists to the ring with a whisper of a touch as Larisa trembled in fear.

The masked figure leaned closer. “During Asterion’s first hours in a physical body, he will have little self-control. You must be secured to the column to prevent you from fleeing into the labyrinth and being trampled or lost.” He drew the golden dagger from his robe, pressed the tip to Larisa’s clenched fist and a tiny trickle of blood appeared.

Larisa glanced upward, tensely biting her lip. The small cut barely registered as pain but the priest’s ominous motions left her breathless with terror.

The priest caught a few drops of blood on the tip of the blade and lifted it toward the head at the top of the column. Larisa watched as a dark crimson trace of her blood was smeared across the star carved on the bull’s forehead.

The moment the blood touched the star, the ground shook and the thundering snort of a bull echoed from within the labyrinth.

A heartbeat later, the click of heavy hooves pounded the floor.

“It is done.” The priest stepped away from Larisa. “Asterion has been summoned into flesh.”

Then the priest dissolved in front of her eyes, quickly becoming so transparent the glowing torch shown clearly through his robe. His image faded until he completely disappeared into vaporous black smoke.

And Larisa was left to face the beast alone.

Chapter Two

The bellowing cry of a large animal rolled through the cavern. Larisa froze against the column, frantically glancing side to side as the chilling sounds of a snorting bull filled the air. The flickering torch provided minimal light, exaggerating shadows and revealing only vague details about the labyrinth. She squinted at what appeared to be several entrances to the chamber across the cavern, but she couldn’t be sure.

She strained to hear from which direction the creature would approach as a shudder of terror gripped her.

Nothing happened.

She waited breathlessly for many long moments as silence reigned. There were no noticeable animal sounds or movements within the labyrinth. The air hung heavy and a cold sweat broke across her brow. A frightened little whimper escaped her lips. Where was it? What was it doing? Why couldn’t she hear the beast walking toward her? Her wrists twisted anxiously from the ring. She listened for some clue the monster was near but the faint sound of dripping water was all she heard.

Harrumph!

She heard a single loud animal noise and trembled.

Snort!

Her eyes strained to see beyond the flickering shadows as her fear intensified.

The click of what sounded like hooves echoed through the cavern, each clopping step signaling a creature of great size moving closer. Every muscle in her body tensed. She wanted to cry out but was too terrified to release the hysterical scream building in her lungs.

A massive black bull, far larger than any she had ever seen in the fields, burst into the cavern with a loud snort! It thrashed its massive horns from side to side and briskly pawed the ground with a hoof.

Then bull looked directly at Larisa, huffed loudly…

And charged.

The beast pounded toward her with the speed and crushing power of a rolling boulder. Larisa screamed.

The bull skidded to a halt an arm’s length in front of her. She rose on tiptoe and arched away from the beast’s massive head and sharp-tipped horns. The earthy scent of field beast filled her nostrils.

The bull stared into her eyes as its tail swished back and forth. Huff, huff. Bursts of warm, moist breath panted from the beast’s muzzle. Every breath sounded like a large bellows drawing air into its massive chest.

Larisa waited in painful suspense to be gored or bitten by the wild creature.

Don’t be afraid. I’m not going to harm you.

The deep, gentle voice of a man floated into her thoughts.

She glanced around, expecting to see the priest lurking in the shadows whispering strange words, but saw no one. “Who’s speaking?” she whispered.

My name is Darron. The bull inched closer. Its snout brushed the very tip of her nose and sniffed her skin. I’ve waited years for this. I began to believe it would never happen. I am honored you’ve been offered to me.

She gasped in alarm. Was a bull truly speaking to her? Entering her thoughts? This was madness beyond all madness!

Phouff! The bull bellowed in her face, its booming roar resonating through the chamber. It galloped around the column, flicking its tail in agitation before bursting into a snorting charge at the far wall. The bull abruptly stopped just short of the wall, swung its head around and looked at her.

A body is a wonderful thing! He enthusiastically stomped in a tight circle. I’ve had it described to me many times but nothing could have prepared me for how it actually feels. It’s almost too much. So many strong sensations… It’s like feeling everything at once!

His ecstatic words continued to directly penetrate her mind. “Are you really speaking to me?” she asked.

The bull glanced at her sideways. Yes, I am, and just as soon as I get my bearings about breathing, moving, thinking and feeling, I’ll take a more traditional form. The bull ran in circles around the cavern, snorting with joy.

Larisa watched the dizzying sight, suppressing incredulous laughter.

I’m doing great! It’s not so hard. I’m going to attempt a new form. The bull knelt before her on its forelegs and somewhat clumsily lowered to the ground. I’ve waited ages to do this. The bull fell onto its side with a deep thud and began to vigorously roll back and forth, kicking its legs in the air.

She was alarmed to see a creature of such size thrashing against the stone and felt certain it would harm itself, but as she watched, the bull slowly transformed…

As it rolled on the floor, a man’s body took form.

Hoofed limbs became muscular legs and arms, articulate hands. A man’s broad shoulders and chest appeared.

Finally Darron cautiously rose on two human legs covered in thick, dark hair.

Larisa gasped when she looked at his handsome face, with its strong jaw and high cheekbones framed by dark, wavy hair. His up-tipped brown eyes appeared highly intelligent. His noble face was nothing like an animal’s—except for a broad set of sweeping horns still attached to his head, which made his tall frame appear even larger. A faint swishing motion behind his thigh alerted her to the presence of a bull’s tail.

“What are you?” she asked cautiously. “Are you an outcast god?”

“Can we speak of that later?” He grinned. “I want to enjoy this moment.” He slowly lifted one foot and then the other before carefully approaching her with an expression of wonderment on his face. “Walking on two legs is tricky!” He stood close and stared into her face. “And looking at you through a man’s eyes is a very different experience than looking at you as a bull.”

His approving gaze swept over her. “I feel quite strange standing near you. My heart’s pounding.” His fingertips grazed her arm, touching with gentle curiosity. “You’re so soft. I would never have felt the smoothness of your skin through a hoof.” He stared at his fingers. “Hands are amazing!” He lightly brushed the tip of one long finger against her parched lips. A look of concern crossed his face. He turned and walked away.

Larisa sighed in relief and allowed her arms to hang limply from the bonds. Certainly this situation was strange, but it wasn’t nearly as awful as she’d expected. Darron, as he had introduced himself, did not inspire terror. The man radiated awe and curiosity.

Based on his reactions, she guessed she was as great a mystery to him as he to her. Except for a couple of decidedly bovine features, he was as breathtaking as any god she could image. She gazed in admiration at the rippling muscles on his back as he moved about the cavern, glancing side to side and seemingly searching for something. He disappeared around a shadowy corner of the chamber.

A moment later she heard water dripping into a container. The sound deepened with every drop collected. Soon, Darron returned holding an earthen bowl of water. He stood before her and offered it. “Drink.”

She hesitantly sniffed the water. It carried the faint scent of minerals but other than that, the water appeared fresh and was very welcome. She bowed her head to eagerly drink. She also noticed Darron’s scent had subtly changed. He no longer smelled like a beast. His skin now carried the light, musky scent of a man. A scent she found strongly enticing.

Darron tipped the bowl and helped her to drink it all.

She instantly felt better and was ready for more water, but was afraid to ask. She thought it best to show gratitude first and whispered a shaky, “Thank you.”

He moved closer, brushing his chest against hers. A slight puff of moist breath bathed her face. A glimmer of what looked like pure male ferocity flashed in his eyes.

She tensed. Now what? “You seem decent,” she pleaded softly. “Let me go or do what you’re going to do, but please don’t hurt me.”

Darron softly exhaled. His hands stroked the sides of her bare arms. “I don’t wish to hurt you.”

The light touch of his broad hands on her skin caused a cascade of unsettling sensations. Her arms already tingled from being hoisted above her head for so long. She gently rolled her wrists to bring some blood to her fingertips.

Darron’s hands traveled toward her raised wrists. His fingers brushed against the leather bonds and hovered there.

She wondered if he was deliberating about whether or not to untie her. Her heart pounded with hope. Would he set her free?

His hands lowered to gently cup the sides of her face.

She tipped her chin upward. He was studying her, seemingly drawing in every detail with intense focus. There was an awed spark in his eyes that almost verged on worship. No one had ever looked at her that way. His expression left her breathless.

He leaned closer and she felt the firm nudge of a hard cock against her belly, and gasped.

“I need this…” His hands lowered to her thighs and gently stroked their rounded curves. “Will you allow it?”

Larisa was too stunned to answer.

She simply nodded.

He lifted the hem of her tunic to her hips and slid his hand between her legs to part them. His fingers slowly circled the thick tangle of dark curls before one dipped between the lips of her sex, searching for the tiny bud hidden there. He carefully explored her body until he found it and pressed down with lazily, circling strokes.

She sighed at his restrained tenderness. His gentle touch and obvious interest in her pleasure eased her fears. A rush of heat flooded between her thighs. She arched toward him and moaned when a surprisingly strong jolt of pleasure rocked her body.

Abruptly he took hold of her hips and lifted her against the column. Larisa felt weightless in his grasp. A blissful feeling of surrender followed.

Darron pinned her body with his and she wrapped her legs around his waist. He slowly rubbed her wet sex with the head of his cock, making it slick, then pressed gently but persistently between her thighs.

His thick cock slid deep inside her in a single unhurried thrust.

She gulped a startled breath at the first stroke’s harsh stretch but by the second and third slow thrusts, she loved the faint burn. The silky hair on his thighs brushed lightly against her skin. The sensation of being completely filled was stunning. She tightened her legs around his hips to lock him in place as he moved cautiously inside her. She wished her hands were free to stroke her bud and add to the rising pleasure, but the tether held her wrists taut.

Heat rolled off his skin as his body covered her. His hips pumped with smooth, graceful motions but as he grew more excited, the pace sped and his breath panted near her ear.

Judging by the gruff, breathy sounds, Larisa knew he was close to climax. Her mind reeled. A god was taking her—and it felt wonderful. She floated on every exciting sensation as the slick stroke of his shaft began to rub against her bud at exactly the right angle.

Larisa rolled her hips against him with abandon; their bodies fit perfectly. The feeling was so unbelievably good it surprised her when it got even better, and a shudder of unbearable pleasure broke over her with a wave of gripping contractions. The final release was so strong, her lips parted on a long, sweet moan.

Darron’s hands firmly gripped her hips and hoisted her higher. His uninhibited strokes sped. His chest pinned her firmly against the column as his body tensed. He came with his own crashing climax that left him trembling. He pressed close and remained almost motionless inside her for what felt like forever, wringing every last bit of pleasure from the act.

She gulped a deep breath as full realization of what she’d done rushed forward. She had mated with a god. And loved it.

What kind of woman did that make her? A goddess or a doomed consort? In every tale of mortal women who had been abducted, ravished or who’d willingly made love to a god, it always ended badly for the mortal. Everyone knew contact with a god drastically changed a woman’s fate. Darron seemed so caring. The act of shared pleasure had been beautiful…but surely tragedy lay ahead.

Darron carefully lowered her feet to the floor. Larisa immediately felt his warm seed trickle down her thighs.

He untied the tether from the bronze ring and unbound Larisa’s wrists. He tossed the tether aside, swept her into his arms and drew her close to his chest. “I’m going to keep you.”

Her fingertips tingled from being lowered too quickly but she allowed herself to relax in his arms and lightly brushed her face against the soft strands of hair running down the center of his chest. He was big and solid and she felt herself melting against him from sheer exhaustion.

Darron cradled her in his arms. His tail swished quietly as he walked beyond the cavernous chamber and into the narrow passageways of the labyrinth, which were lit with a blazing torch at every turn. She tried to ignore the unsettling sound of the tail by listening to the thump of his heart deep in his chest.

There were many twists in the path as they journeyed deeper into the labyrinth. Darron walked for what felt like forever. The ground slightly trembled beneath their feet regularly, as if the island were a great beast shifting its weight and groaning. Tiny plumes of dust and debris trickled down the walls.

Finally they came to a small chamber furnished with lush furs laid atop a sweet-smelling straw mattress. Darron stopped and gently lowered her feet to the floor.

His eyes drooped. “This must be what tired feels like?” He lay down on the mattress with an exhausted sigh, his long body stretching the length of the bed. He reached out, took hold of her wrist and pulled her down beside him. His big arms locked around her, holding her captive against his chest. “If I fell asleep, would you run away?”

She felt comforted in his arms. “No.”

He kissed the top of her head. “I like having you near.” He held her close as his breathing slowed.

Soon he slept, and not long after, so did Larisa. A beautiful but strangely agitated dream followed…

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Larisa was floating in a beautiful place that appeared to be made of blindingly bright, rainbow-colored light. The atmosphere was as thick as honey and hummed with vibrancy. These seemed no distinct impression of up or down and nothing around her possessed true solidity.

She glided beneath a roaring waterfall of shimmering light, passing right through it with no physical sensation at all. Fluid, translucent walls of pastel-tinted light also proved to be no barrier; she easily crossed through those as well.

This place slightly resembled the Palace of Asterion, with its pattern-embellished columns of light and its soaring grandeur, but its ethereal beauty was far beyond anything she could compare it to.

She became aware of male voices arguing and moved toward a glowing gathering of tall, slender beings that reminded her of candle flames. They flickered with colored light and shifted shape as they spoke.

The tallest, brightest being spoke in somber tones. “We made a grave mistake opening portals on Earth, helping some Earthlings while ignoring others. We’ve done irreparable damage to the Earth beings and will no doubt face council censure.”

A second being, this one with a coppery glow, angrily flared upward. For some reason, Larisa was certain this being was Darron.

“That’s not true.” Darron’s words weren’t actually spoken by a mouth but his voice clearly addressed the other. “Earthlings are eager to learn. They show more promise than any group we’ve ever contacted. They are special, and possess a tenacious strength of spirit we could learn from. They know things we don’t. Deeper partnering with Earthlings could evolve into a relationship of equals.”

“Equals?” The tall being indignantly expanded in size until he glowed white-hot. “How would that be possible? Asteria is a world of pure thought and abstracts. If we agree upon it, it manifests. The people of Earth are still stabbing each other with metal and scratching in the dirt to survive. We are not equals.”

“Pardon me, Elder, but you’re wrong,” Darron insisted. “I’ve observed Earth for a millennium. You wouldn’t believe how difficult and short men’s lives are. Every day they’re mired in hardship but their hearts and minds are noble. They’re intelligent and have high aspirations. To endure all they do, I’m certain the creator who made us all granted them something extra. They do many things we do but in limited bodies that feel great pleasure and deep pain. They face death as an unknown. Unlike us, they have no idea what comes next. They embrace each harrowing moment of life knowing there may never be another.”

“Darron.” The flickering Elder cooled his light to a pale golden glow. “The Asterions have been on Earth for too long. We’ve taken the form of beasts and men and walked among the people of Earth. In the early days, it did no harm, but humanity has reached a crucial point and must now move forward on its own, if it is to move forward at all. We should step back and observe the seeds that have already been planted. If Earth is worthwhile, we can return someday and teach them something more.”

“It’s not all about us teaching them. The people of Earth can teach us!”

The Elder balked. “Where is the merit in that?”

“You’ve never taken a body. You don’t know the many lessons Earth could offer us,” Darron persisted. “We’ve been going about our transactions with Earth all wrong. If I am allowed to use the island portal one last time, I’ll try to master the many difficulties of becoming a man; take my chances in a human body and relish what lessons I receive.”

“It is too great a risk.” The Elder flared upward again. “Your life on Earth will be short and uncertain. The island’s condition is precarious, molten rock is roiling beneath it as we speak. It will not last much longer. Maintaining the island’s labyrinth portal placed humans in unnecessary danger. That’s why it was sealed to the world years ago within the enchanted fog.”

“I don’t care if my Earth life is brief. A single day in a body would be worth it.”

The Elder loomed taller still and flickered an angry shade of red. “But there is an even greater danger to you. If you bond with Earth, your spirit may become trapped in the soil indefinitely. It is possible you might never return to Asteria. Century after century I’ve waited in vain for the return of many young Asterions. Your own sister Hathor stubbornly continues to reside in Egypt. When one of her physical bodies dies, she immediately takes another. She has birthed generations of Earthly children and is now so strongly bonded to Earth that I fear we may never see her again. Your brother Brahma has all but disappeared in the east and also shows no interest in returning to Asteria.”

“Is that your worst fear, Elder? That my siblings and I will stay on Earth and never come home?” Darron’s flame flickered warmly with what felt to Larisa like compassion. “Asteria is perfect. Nothing changes here. There are no challenges left to be conquered and I know there is much more to learn elsewhere. Earth can be harsh, but it is a good teacher. Please allow the Minoan portal to be opened one last time.”

“No,” the Elder said. “There is no sense in provoking an already unstable situation. Anything you might teach the people of Minoa will only cause a greater imbalance with their neighbors.”

“Or it could speed their progress in ways that benefit all,” Darron pleaded. “Elder, it’s already too late for me. I’ve fallen in love with Earth. For a thousand years my spirit has beaten a well-worn path to the island. In my thoughts and dreams, I go there endlessly. I can’t even image using another portal.

“In the island’s last days, may I be given permission to take physical form if a human who needs me comes to the island?”

“Darron.” The Elder’s voice softened on a sigh. “You know it’s more complicated than that. The council will consider granting permission for a final trip to Earth…within strict limitations. You would be allowed one purely human incarnation but that body will be as vulnerable as anyone else’s. As an Asterion, you would be able to manifest physical matter, but I ask that you rely on your wits and abilities to inspire instead.”

“Thank you.” Darron flickered brightly.

“There are no guarantees.” The Elder’s light cooled to amber. “Your time within the labyrinth will be lonely. The island has been emptied of people. Incorporeal guards have been put in place to protect the portal until the island’s demise. The guardian priests will be your only company. It’s entirely possible your spirit might remain trapped in the labyrinth without a physical form for months or even years. Without the proper blood rituals and grounding, you might never receive a physical body. During your time away, you could lose your place of honor on the Asterion council. Are you willing to journey to Earth and take that chance?”

“Yes.” Darron’s voice rose. “Send me now.”

Chapter Three

Larisa awoke to the sound of a rumbling growl. She gasped in alarm, bolted upright on the straw mattress and stared at the unfamiliar surroundings of the torch-lit labyrinth.

“You’re finally awake.” Darron stirred beside her. His arm wrapped around her waist and pulled her back down. “I was just thinking of home and feeling restless.” He patted his abdomen. “There’s a strange emptiness inside.”

A low growl grumbled again. She realized the rumbling noise was her own empty stomach. “We’re hungry. I haven’t eaten since yesterday.”

“I haven’t eaten ever.” He chuckled. “I was waiting to share my first meal with you.”

She glanced to her right and saw several clay amphorae and a platter brimming with fresh fruit, bread, olives and cheese. She sat up again and impulsively reached for a pear. “This is a welcome surprise. I’m starving.” She bit into the juicy pear, savoring its sweetness.

Darron sat and also picked up a pear, brought it to his lips and bit it nearly in half. The large chuck lodged in his mouth and stretched his jaw wide. Juice dribbled down his chin as he tried to bite the unwieldy portion. He looked startled and froze, seemingly at a loss as to what to do next.

“Chew smaller bites.” She smiled at his dilemma. “Be careful, don’t breathe in and swallow food at the same time.”

It appeared to be too late. He choked a bit and his eyes watered as he grimaced and swallowed. Darron spit out the uneaten portion of pear with a gasp. “That hurt. Eating looks so simple, yet it’s not.”

Larisa reached for an amphora, which she hoped was filled with water, and passed it to Darron.

He held the amphora to his lips and drank. A trickle of dark wine escaped the side of his mouth. “This I like.”

“Go lightly with the wine, especially since you’ve not had it before. You might want to start with water.”

“I tried water.” He took another long drink. “I prefer wine.”

She watched with amusement as he drank. Every few moments he looked directly at her with a sleepy, sexy expression. He appeared young, perhaps a few years older than her. His large, dark eyes were luminous, reflecting just the slightest hint of something otherworldly.

“I dreamed I saw Asteria,” she cautiously said.

“That wasn’t a dream. It was a shared thought. Asterions do that. I was remembering my decision to come here while you were sleeping.” Darron paused. “I’m very pleased you were able to share the thought too.” He leaned closer. “When you’re ready, we can share more. But first I want you to eat something.” His voice carried a note of formality. “May I feed you?” His gaze focused on her with bright intensity as he reached for a small bunch of red grapes and tugged one free.

Her stomach growled loudly. Everything on the platter looked delicious and she wanted it, but beneath Darron’s sweet gesture, Larisa had a feeling the act of sharing food with him meant more than simply filling her belly.

He held a dark grape to her lips. A look of expectation shone in his eyes.

For a moment the fruit hovered unclaimed in front of her. “What exactly am I saying yes to?”

He smiled slightly. “In allowing me to feed you, you give consent to take the next part of the journey.”

Her curiosity to know more was overwhelming, and so she accepted the grape from his fingertips, enjoying its tart flavor.

A surprising thing happened next.

Larisa looked directly at him and, briefly, his face shimmered, becoming a sparkling beacon of light and not a man at all. His image was so brilliant she could barely look upon it. She squinted against the glare and glanced away, waiting for the brief but startling vision to fade.

A moment later he was once again a handsome man with big brown eyes and an ivory set of horns sweeping outward from his head. She gasped in quiet astonishment.

“That’s my true face, and it’s not appropriate for Earth.” Darron’s hand lightly brushed against hers. “From the first moment I heard tales of Earth, I knew I belonged here, and waited patiently for the opportunity to cross into your world. So few Asterions are allowed to come. I’ve dreamed of living as a man and being part of Earth.” He gently fed her another grape. “There are no vineyards, orchards or animals where I come from. Sex, as you understand it, does not exist. I observed Earth for years but I’d never experienced anything so pleasurable as taking the form of a man and enjoying my first sexual taste of you. I want to thank you for that gift.”

He lifted a round loaf of dense bread from the platter, tore it in two and handed her half. “Tear off a piece and feed it to me.” A note of hope lifted his voice. “Please.”

She tore a small chunk of bread from the loaf and cautiously brought it to his lips. “Why did you appear as a bull within the labyrinth?”

He took the piece of bread from her fingertips and carefully chewed and swallowed. “When the Asterions first came to Earth many generations ago, we took the form of animals that humans would admire, covet and make use of. Living among you as animals was the easiest way to become accustomed to Earthly bodies and observe humanity without causing conflict.

“Many of us found adapting to the complex emotions of the human mind, and the conflicting needs of a body, extremely challenging. Most Asterions were only able to make half the transition toward becoming human. Over time, the Asterion council lost interest in trying to master physical bodies, but a few persisted and became adept as Earthlings. A traditional animal such as a bull is still the simplest and most comfortable form to take; it’s large, powerful and, on this small island, only a human would dare challenge it.”

A little shiver of apprehension raced through her. She knew “Asterion” was an ancient word, older than stone, which meant “starry master” or “ruler of stars”. She leaned closer. “Are you a god?”

“No.” He reached for more wine. “Don’t be intimidated by the word ‘Asterion’. I’m physically different from you but our souls are similar. I envy all that you have, and all that you can enjoy on Earth. I begged the council for the chance to live a single lifetime as a man.” He gently pushed the platter toward her. “Share with me. Eat and drink your fill. Afterward, there’s something I want to show you.”

Larisa helped herself to a little of everything and washed it all down with a generous serving of wine. Darron ate and drank also. His gaze carefully watched her every choice from the platter. He ate whichever items she chose, following her lead. When she was finished eating the simple but delicious fare, she sighed contently.

“Come here.” He kicked free of the bed covers and stretched across the mattress, exposing perfectly formed, muscular legs that were now faintly dusted with a few silky hairs instead of a brushy animal pelt.

She admired the long legs and swept her gaze toward the deeply flushed shaft of his thick cock, its tip glistening.

“Lie with me.” His hand slowly stroked the mattress, inviting her near. “I need you beside me.”

She slowly reclined and stretched across the mattress at his side. She gazed into his strongly angled face, thinking him to be the masculine ideal, if still a bit too animal-like with the horns. Her fingertips stroked against the soft strands of hair on his broad chest as her body nestled against him.

“What do you think of me?” He brushed a curl from her face.

“Don’t you already know?” She lightly kissed the warm skin on his chest. “You’re the most beautiful being I’ve ever seen.” The uncensored words blurted past her lips.

He smiled. “I think the same about you.” He gently slid on top of her, carefully taking his weight on his elbows. His legs parted her own as he settled between her thighs. His lips lightly brushed against Larisa’s.

A breathless thrill raced through her as she parted her lips and allowed his tongue to glide across hers.

His hand lowered to tenderly stroke the side of her thigh and gently nudge her tunic higher. “I want you,” he whispered. “Do you want me?”

“Yes.” A rising wave of lust overtook her as she helped Darron lift the hem of her tunic to her hips. Her skin tingled in anticipation of sharing more pleasure with him. She forgot about the horns on his head and could hardly wait for the thrilling sensations of having his strong body moving inside hers, making her feel good again.

His hands cradled the back of her head and held her close in a sweetly demanding kiss. She loved his touch. It was raw lust tempered with gentleness. She sensed how careful he was being to not rush or startle her. A flood of excitement raced through her as his mouth covered hers with hungry kisses.

His cock pressed between her thighs, brushing against her wet sex. He almost held his breath as his gaze met hers and waited.

Larisa reached down, took hold of the shaft and slowly rubbed the wet crown against her bud, loving the shivers of arousal that zipped through her. As soon as the crown was thoroughly slick, she guided him inside.

He slid into her with ease, exhaling a ragged breath as he sank deeper. “Wrap your arms around me,” he pleaded.

She locked her arms around his shoulders and squeezed his lean hips between her thighs. It was pure pleasure to twine her limbs around his solid frame, as his body slowly moved between her legs. As his motions gradually sped, he grew more excited, and so did she. Larisa arched against the furs as they moved together in perfectly matched rhythm.

His breath panted in harsh bursts and she knew he was reaching climax. She was on fire too and tilted her hips upward to rub her bud against the fast-stroking shaft. Her hands slid across the solid curves of his buttocks and clutched to anchor him against her as she came. Her skin flushed with heat and for a fleeting moment, even the soles of her feet tingled before the full, stunning release rippled through her core. She collapsed beneath him with a sigh.

Darron’s hips pumped faster before a violent shudder passed through his body. He threw his head back, thrust deep and groaned as he released a long, drenching rush of hot seed inside her. His hips slowly rocked for several long strokes as he finished.

While his breathing calmed, she continued to hold him close and smooth her fingers through his hair.

When he was finally capable of speaking, he whispered, “Larisa.” The next words were spoken just as softly. “Would you welcome a child that belonged to both my world and yours?”

His words were so serious, her skin pebbled with tension. “Do you know I’m with child, or are you just asking?” She shifted beneath him. “Would the child be more like me?” She hesitated. “Or you?”

He smiled. “It would be an equal blend of Asterion and Earthling.”

Her hand sank lower on his back, until she felt… “I meant…would the child have a tail and horns?”

“Would it be a disgrace if that happened?” he asked innocently.

“The child could never pass for human.”

His brow furrowed. “The child would be half Asterion and no doubt a very valuable member of any group. Several of Hathor’s daughters were born with cow’s heads and they are absolutely beloved in Egypt, and considered to be very desirable…”

She gulped a deep breath. “Let’s discuss this later. There may be nothing to worry about.”

“That’s right.” His fingertips lightly stroked the sides of her face. “With your help and love, I can fully become a man and live above in the sunlight. I want that more than anything.”

“I don’t understand,” she whispered.

Darron smiled at her with a sweet, slightly crooked grin. “You don’t like my tail, do you?”

She shifted uncomfortably, not knowing what to say.

“Please be honest,” He glanced over his shoulder at the offending appendage.

She gazed at his strong profile lit by flickering torchlight. There was plenty to appreciate about him. His face was ruggedly handsome and his solid warrior’s body made her feel wonderful. Even his ivory horns had an air of majesty. Why did he have to bring up the one thing that troubled her? “It’s not that I dislike it…” She hesitated. “It’s just so—animal.”

He stood and offered his hand. “Come with me.”

She grasped his hand and rose, smoothing her rumpled tunic with her other palm. “Where are we going?”

“Deeper into the heart of the labyrinth.”

“Why?”

“For me, the only way out is by going inward. On Asteria, a labyrinth is considered the ideal safe place to begin life on Earth. Some visiting Asterions never fully attained human form, or even left the labyrinth. I want more. I want to live above as a man, but to do that I must have the permission of the Asterion council and a specific purpose to fulfill on Earth. Perhaps we can find that purpose together.” He glanced over his shoulder at his flicking tail then smiled. “Don’t worry—it will be gone soon.”

He reached for the torch with his free hand, removing it from a niche in the wall. “Follow me.”

They left the small chamber and walked into a passageway that split into three narrower paths. Darron chose one that barely accommodated the width of his horns. “I hope I picked the right passageway,” he mumbled. “It’s a lot easier navigating a labyrinth as a formless spirit. I usually just floated through obstacles, instead of walking around them.”

“You don’t know your way around down here? You said you were here for years.”

“I was, but being in a physical body makes it an entirely new experience. Now five physical senses are involved. There are features to the labyrinth that simply did not register with my spirit-self, such as textures and smells…even shadows, if you can image, were something I never had to cope with.” The tip of one horn scraped the wall and he winced and pulled away. “See? I’m still learning. Before, I simply followed a thought and the thought would take me directly where I wanted to go. It was much easier.”

He glanced at her. “But I have no regrets about taking a physical body. This is the best adventure I’ve ever had.”

“What exactly were you?”

“Light, is the easiest answer. I had far less substance than the priest you met upon your arrival.”

“Is the priest an Asterion too?”

“No, he’s from another race of beings who are also interested in the denser physical realms, but they have yet to master the art of taking on any sort of physical form. These beings, like the Asterions, are in awe of Earth and all that is possible here. They’re here simply to assist our work and observe.”

“Why did you wait so long to take form?”

“I had no choice. I had to be physically initiated into your realm. I couldn’t simply will myself through the portal, though I did try.” He laughed quietly. “Someone had to come to the labyrinth and offer a few drops of blood in order for me to take physical form.”

Larisa became disoriented as they negotiated the many twisting turns, and was convinced they were wandering in circles. At every corner she expected to see the straw mattress and half-eaten platter of food, but eventually they came to a rounded chamber with a large, sparkling silver mirror embedded in the wall.

As they approached the mirror, it rippled to life as if it were the calm surface of a pool.

“Go ahead,” Darron encouraged. “Look into the mirror; it’s the past made clear. Of course you can’t go back, but you can see it for what it was.”

A chill skittered over her skin. “What will I see?”

“I don’t know.” Darron released Larisa’s hand and allowed her to approach the mirror alone. “It’s not my past.”

She cautiously stood before the mirror, at first seeing only her reflection of long curls and large brown eyes—then the surface rippled and the image of her dead fiancé Alecto shimmered into form.

Alecto looked back at her in death as he had in life, with restless fire burning is his dark eyes. He was a man of action and quick temper who was always ready to fight. At the slightest hint of battle, he was the first to gather his weapons and sound the call. A great warrior, inspiring and brave, Alecto was the son her father never had, and he had been her father’s first choice of a husband. Larisa’s father had arranged her marriage to Alecto shortly before their deaths.

Alecto had clearly been the right man to follow in her father’s footsteps as warrior chief, but had he been the right man to provide a loving household for Larisa? That question had never been broached.

Alecto continued to stare back at her with narrowed eyes. His stern expression almost dared her to entertain warm thoughts about him. He was from another tribe, and he and Larisa had known very little about each other, a fact that didn’t matter to Alecto. She was a chief’s daughter and therefore a worthy prize. That was all he required in a wife. She had only been alone with him on the rare occasion. All she truly knew about Alecto was what she had gathered with her eyes or overheard while they were in the company of others. Alecto and her father had mostly shared detailed conversations about weapons and battle strategies.

In the mirror, beyond Alecto, the faint image of a flickering campfire crackled and she was reminded of the single sweet thing they had shared. One night, beside a campfire when no one was looking, he’d grabbed her wrist, pulled her onto his lap and kissed her deliriously.

Larisa had loved it. The kiss had left her breathless and proved to be an exciting invitation to a new world of desire. She’d instantly wanted to experience more, but aside from the stolen kiss by the fire, they’d been strangers. She’d been left wondering about all the things she didn’t know about Alecto and never would.

The mirror darkened and Alecto’s image faded. Larisa had wanted love, a home and children of her own, and Alecto had been the one chosen to provide those things. But she realized Alecto would never have been happy staying home with a wife and children. He’d been forever on the march. When he died, she’d felt great sorrow for his unlived life—but she now felt deeper sorrow for the narrowness of that life.

“What are you thinking?” Darron whispered.

“I was thinking how tragic it is that the people of my village spend all their energy and lives fighting with our neighbors and achieving so little. When our boat washed ashore, I was awestruck by the Palace of Asterion. I never dreamed such splendor existed. My village is made of mud thatch and each cottage is so tiny you can barely spread your arms without striking a wall. When I saw what the Minoans could build, I wanted to shout, ‘Why can’t we achieve that? Why must we spend all our time fighting?’

“My father and Alecto were obsessed with battle. They were brave men. I respect them both but what a waste it all was. They left little of value behind. During their lives, not a moment was spent on making the future better or more beautiful.”

Darron gazed at her. “Do you think the people of your village would be interested in learning new ways?”

“I don’t know.” She shook her head. “I would hope so. I want to learn to paint the images I saw on the Minoan palace walls…”

He picked up the torch, took her hand and led her out of the mirror chamber. They walked another twisting passageway, this time coming upon a dripping grotto. The air was warm and humid. Steam rose from a natural hot spring.

Darron set the torch into the wall and waded into the spring. He motioned for Larisa to follow. “Bathe with me.” He walked to the middle of the clear spring until the water reached his shoulders.

She stood nervously at the edge. “I can’t swim.”

He held his arms open. “I’ll hold you. You’re safe with me.”

She did feel safe with him. Her hands tugged the tunic over her head and tossed it aside. She waded waist-deep into the warm water.

Darron approached and scooped her into his arms, moving them deeper.

Larisa wrapped her arms securely around his neck and enjoyed pressing her body against the warm expanse of his chest. He felt so solid and secure, she could fully appreciate the spring and allow herself to gently float. “This feels wonderful.”

He showered the side of her face with kisses. His hands roamed lovingly over her skin. “I want to do something for you.” He walked toward the far edge of the spring and sat her on a smooth rock.

“What are you doing?” She noticed a bright glint in his eyes.

“You’ve given me so much pleasure, I wish to return the favor.” He parted her thighs. “Wrap your legs around my neck so I can taste you.”

A blush warmed her cheeks. He was putting her first? The thought of his beautiful mouth kissing her sex was terrifically exciting. She lifted her legs and slid them over his shoulders, then leaned back on her elbows and watched as he carefully positioned his face in front of her sex.

His lips lightly brushed against her bud. “I’ve been dreaming of this.” He pressed a soft kiss to her mons. His long, wavy hair tickled her inner thighs as his face slowly moved from side to side. His tongue gently stroked between her lips, searching for her bud with languorous circles, causing thrilling sensations that built in intensity.

Larisa relaxed the grip of her thighs to make herself more accessible. The warm caress of his mouth was stunning.

Darron teased her with light flicking motions—before bearing down to fiercely suck.

She gasped. Her hips arched upward from the overwhelming pleasure.

He lifted his face. “Too hard?”

She shook her head. “It’s perfect.” She guided his head lower and held him captive between her thighs, desperately needing him to continue. “Don’t stop.” Larisa rocked her hips.

As his mouth worked her bud, he slid a long finger inside her and stroked.

She wanted to go wild from the tremendous amount of energy building inside her body and almost needed to scream. Her thighs pressed against the sides of his face as she rubbed her bud hard against his lips.

His lips slowly drew her bud to a peak. He made a gentle coaxing motion with his crooked finger that lured her closer to the edge of climax.

Larisa tensed. For a startling moment she felt as if she were floating, weightless. Her stomach muscles clenched as a strong climax broke and left her face flushed. She panted shallow breaths and rode the sensation for as long as possible. As the last rolling waves of pleasure passed, she had to will herself to relax and release him from her tensed legs.

He rose from between her parted thighs with a proud smile. “I’ll do that every day if you’ll allow it.”

Her mind had gone completely blank. “I’d love it!” she gasped, then laughed. She really couldn’t image Alecto putting her desires first, or even caring if she received pleasure. Darron’s surprising attitude was welcome.

Darron took hold of her and once more lifted her into the spring, turning in a lazy circle. “I’ll try my best to make you happy every day.”

She wrapped her legs around his waist. The sole of her foot brushed against the solid curve of his buttocks, but…

She didn’t feel a tail.

Larisa bolted upright, straining to glance over his shoulder. “Where is it?”

“The tail’s gone.” Darron grinned. “You’re not going to miss it, are you?”

She kissed his lips. “No.”

“The more you share with me, the more human I become. Taking an Earthly body brings great responsibilities.” A note of somberness crept into his voice. “Larisa, I have one more important thing to show you.” He moved toward the edge of the spring once more. “Will you walk to the heart of the labyrinth with me?” He climbed out of the water and offered his hand. “I need your help making a decision.”

She took his hand and allowed him to pull her up. “What decision?” Water sheeted from her body as she reached for her rumpled tunic and pulled it over her head.

“The heart of the labyrinth is a direct portal to Asteria. If I am to stay on Earth in physical form, I must have the Asterion council’s permission to do something that’s never been done.”

He picked up the torch and beckoned her forward. “Come.”

Chapter Four

They walked a sloping passageway that eventually opened into a spacious, domed cavern with a ceiling that soared upward into shadow. The curved walls were embellished with meticulously carved glyphs. The floor of the cavern was covered in an intricate mosaic of twisted knots leading to the center of the design, which held a beautiful star.

Darron pointed toward the star. “That’s the star of Asteria. It’s the gateway home, but this portal has become unstable. The Asterions will not use it again.” He closed his eyes, bowed his head and appeared to fall into deep thought.

A blindingly bright flame appeared in the center of the star and stretched upward toward the highest point of the cavern. The deep, authoritative voice of the Elder spoke.

“Darron, are you ready to return? The council senses that indeed the island will soon be destroyed when Thera erupts. The inevitable is near.”

Darron drew a tense breath. “I wish to stay on Earth.”

“That will not be possible,” the Elder insisted. “This portal will close.”

“I ask permission to open a new portal in a new land.”

“What new land?” The towering flame flashed an acidic shade of yellow and flickered erratically.

“I’m not sure.” Darron’s chin dipped. “I have not yet left the labyrinth to explore Earth.”

“You don’t even know where you’re going?” the Elder huffed. “The portals we currently maintain are controversial enough. We don’t need another. What inspired such a rash notion?”

“A young woman was brought to the labyrinth. I believe her people could benefit from contact with the Asterions.”

The Elder’s flame flickered wildly. “But you’re not certain?”

“No.” Darron hung his head.

“Darron,” the Elder scolded. “You will not be allowed to wander aimlessly. You can stay on Earth only if you have a clear purpose.”

“I wish to be a teacher,” Darron insisted.

“To retain an Earthly body, an Asterion must also take a mate.” The Elder’s height shortened and the light became a soothing shade of pale blue. “Do you have an Earth partner willing to work with you?”

Darron glanced at Larisa. “Elder, may I have a moment of privacy to settle a personal matter?”

“Privacy?” the Elder scoffed. “Asterions do not require or embrace privacy. You are already speaking the sort of nonsense I hear from Hathor. I believe Earth is a dangerous influence on Asterions.”

“Please, Elder. I must speak with Larisa.”

A long moment of silence followed.

“More time will be granted.” The Elder’s light flickered to a warm glow. “The council has suggested to me that you be allowed to take care of this matter in your own way. Limited permission to remain on Earth for one lifetime is granted.”

Darron beamed. “Thank you.”

“Because you are the last Asterion to go to Earth, the council has granted you liberties previously not given. You shall be allowed to live as a man without council supervision. Your victories and mistakes shall solely be your own. Do not waste this rare opportunity or provide cause for me to be summoned again. This place holds no appeal for me. As we part, I ask that you not completely abandon Asteria. What you learn about Earth will be of interest to us.”

With that, the Elder’s light became a stretched, transparent wisp before fading completely.

Darron knelt on one knee in the center of the labyrinth and looked into Larisa’s eyes. “Larisa, would you willingly accept me as your husband and welcome a child from me? Asterions mate for all lifetimes. What I ask of you is nothing trivial, and I will understand and respect whatever decision you make.” He paused and bowed his head. “If not, please tell me now. I’ll make sure you safely leave the island before I return to my realm. Whatever you choose, know that I have only gratitude for the beautiful experiences you’ve shared with me.”

Larisa inhaled a tense breath. “For all lifetimes? What does that mean?”

“It means with the council’s permission we could share many lives together on Earth, or possibly you might visit Asteria someday, but that time would be a long way off. Today, all I can offer is one lifetime, but as an Asterion I’m hoping to spend many with you.”

She slowly lowered to her knees beside him and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Darron, you’re the only man who’s ever shown any respect for my feelings or offered me a choice. The Asterions will have to wait a little longer for your homecoming. I’m keeping you with me on Earth.” Her hands gently stroked the side of his face, encouraging him to look up. “I think you’re the right mate for me.”

He lifted his face, joy brimming in his eyes—and the horns on his head fell to the floor with a hollow clatter. More dark, wavy hair immediately took their place, leaving no visible sign they’d ever existed.

Darron gently picked up one of the newly shed horns. “We’ll need this later.”

He took hold of her hand and stood, helping Larisa to her feet as well. As he straightened to his full height, suddenly the shadows of the labyrinth receded. A burst of bright light lifted them upward.

In a heartbeat, the labyrinth faded away and they found themselves standing on the sunny mountain road that led to Larisa’s home village of Kreios.

Larisa gaped in shock. “How did we get here?”

Darron smiled. “I thought us here. It’s an Asterion trick.”

She laughed. “It’s amazing! Are you sure you’re not a god?” She glanced down and gasped as she saw her tattered linen tunic had vanished and an elegant white gown of flowing silk had taken its place, its sweeping sleeves embroidered with gold thread. Larisa twirled in awe. The long sleeves floated around her like snowy wings. “It’s beautiful!”

Darron wore snug leather leggings and armor fit for a king. He was stunning in a gleaming bronze breastplate with the ornately hammered imprint of a bull emblazoned across the chest. To her eyes, he was everything noble.

He smiled and tucked the horn into his belt. “My bride looks lovely. Do you like the dress? Can we get married in your village?”

She froze. “Darron, I can’t go back to my village. I won’t be welcome. Catullus will have me shunned.”

“No he won’t.”

“You don’t understand—”

“I do.” His eyes lit with their first real touch of mischief. He determinedly marched uphill. “I know exactly what needs to be done.”

Larisa hurried to catch up. As they approached her home, the villagers turned out en masse to stare at her and Darron.

An old woman bravely walked up to Larisa and touched the hem of her sleeve. “You were sacrificed to the Minotaur. Are you a ghost now?”

“No.” Larisa’s gaze swept the crowd, looking for Catullus. “I’m very much alive—and I want my land back.”

She finally spotted Catullus lurking behind a tree.

“Don’t touch her or look into her eyes!” Catullus blubbered. “She was claimed by a frightful creature of the underworld and she should have stayed there!”

“I am the frightful creature.” Darron’s armor shimmered magnificently in the sunlight as he addressed the crowd. “I’m Larisa’s new husband…and I’d like to be your chief.”

“I’m the chief!” Catullus bellowed. “You’re not one of us!”

Larisa smiled proudly. “Darron is an honored leader in his realm, and he has much to share with us that will make our lives better. He’s the Master of the Palace of Asterion, and it is dazzling.” She pointed at Catullus. “Catullus himself saw it. Darron’s people know so much. Give him a chance and you will be amazed at what he can teach us.”

“Like what?” Catullus sneered. “What could this stranger possibly do for the village that I couldn’t do?”

Darron pulled the horn from his belt. “I’ll give Larisa a new home. I’ll also build the village a grand palace, where peoples from all tribes can gather and learn. You will be able to study mathematics, philosophy and architecture. You may not understand now, but you will. You’ll quickly see the benefit of uniting with your neighbors and advancing together instead of constantly warring against each other. It will change your lives greatly.” He looked toward Larisa. “Where is your land?”

She pointed toward a nearby rolling hillside of orchards and fields.

Darron strode toward the hillside, the entire village walking a short distance behind. When he reached Larisa’s land, he waved his hand in warning. “Everyone stay back.” As soon as the villagers walked a safe distance away, he thrust the horn into the ground. “The new portal shall be here!”

The moment the horn struck the earth, the ground rumbled violently. Many gasped in terror and ran toward the village. Stones reared suddenly from the trembling ground and a beautifully constructed alabaster palace appeared, with grand halls and tall stone columns. Platters of food and jars of wine magically filled the front arcade.

Larisa stared in utter shock.

“Do you like it?” Darron asked gently. “It is a wedding gift.” He looked down the road at the frightened villagers. “Larisa, call them back. Tell them they’re welcome to all we have.” He turned toward Catullus and took a menacing step closer. “Do you think you could offer the same?”

Catullus blanched and backed away.

“Run!” Darron demanded in a booming voice. “Run as fast as you can and never come back to this village or I’ll throw you to the Minotaur! You’ll be trampled, slashed and your blood drank dry. Your hideous death won’t come soon enough!”

Catullus screamed and ran like a fool.

Darron grinned at Larisa. “Is there anyone else you would like me to deal with?”

“No.” Larisa smiled and walked up to Darron, hooking her arm through his. “If you wish to be a trusted teacher to my tribe, it might be wise to distance yourself from the Minotaur. My people fear it. Perhaps this is a good time to change the Asterion approach?”

“I’m sure you’re right. See, I’m already learning from you.” Darron drew her close to his heart. “Let’s go to the village and bring everyone back so we can have a wedding.”

“I have a better idea.” Larisa rose on tiptoe and kissed Darron’s lips. “Why don’t you show me our new home first?” A tingle of excitement warmed her skin. “Would any of those elegant rooms have a mattress?”

“Every room has a mattress,” he said innocently.

She led him up the gleaming steps of their palace home. “Let’s make a game of it. Why don’t you pick your favorite room and we’ll test one of the mattresses?”

Larisa bolted away from him with an echoing burst of laughter and raced through the polished halls of the palace. The new home was tremendous and she was able to dash full speed without bumping into anything. Her sandals skidded across the slick floors as she darted ahead of Darron and swung behind a marble column to catch her breath.

Darron caught up to Larisa with ease and lifted her into his arms, laughing. He strode down a long hallway and entered a simple but lovely room with a veranda that opened onto the orchard beyond. He gazed toward the rolling hillside planted with blossoming fruit trees. “I like this room.”

He gently set her down on a straw mattress covered in linens and colorful blue and green silk. He took hold of her gown, tugged it over her head and tossed it aside.

“This room’s a good choice.” Larisa leaned back provocatively and stretched naked across the bed. “It has a great view.”

Darron looked at her with lust brimming in his eyes. “I like the view of you best.” He quickly stripped away his armor and clothing and reclined beside her on the mattress, lazily rolling onto his back. “Mount me, Larisa. I wish to look at your beautiful face while you climax.”

She gracefully slid on top of him and brushed her fingertips across his chest, stopping to tease his tiny nipples. She bent to kiss his lips.

“This is wonderful. I already love this life.” His eyes fell to half-mast as she kissed him. He looked completely lost in the experience. “Put me inside you,” he pleaded.

She took hold of his shaft and guided him inside her body. She was already so wet, his entry was easy. A tiny cry of pleasure escaped her lips as she sank down and felt the full stretch of penetration.

He slowly arched his hips with the most blissful expression on his face. “I’m so glad to be on Earth with you. My heart feels like it’s going to burst. I can’t image anything better than this.”

“Oh, it gets better.” She slowly rocked her hips, already feeling the beautiful tension building. “Wait until you hold your firstborn…”