The Dark Society

1

 London, England

A lifetime native of London, Luis is the son of Jim and Caroline Mortensen. Married in 1983, Jim, at fifty-two, is a philosophy professor at Imperial University. While Caroline, at fifty-one, is a notable emissary to the English government.

Imperial gained prestige by graduating gifted scholars. Thus, Luis would pursue a law degree while furthering passions for ecological issues. Jim and Caroline felt most elated when graduation arrived. But despite his enthusiasm, Luis' thoughts dwelt on Karen. They'd been in love since childhood, but as one might expect, acted oblivious and defiant.

For this reason, Karen's mother, Jessica, thought it better if the family moved away. A decision that left Luis heartbroken and distraught. On top of that, his and Karen's friends began attending an occultist church: the Lady of Victories.

Among them were Sienna Quinn, Lesley Ashton and Dena Pierce. Sisters of enchantment Karen bonded with and considered family. Yet, her mother remained firm, and with Archbishop Leon Luen, stifled these relationships.

Karen wasn't like other girls and suffered from a mysterious affliction. So, Jessica sheltered her daughter amid continuous treatments. Nevertheless, three years passed, and Luis seemed determined to find her again.

Meanwhile, Caroline organized a post-graduation banquet at London's lavish Clove Club. Knowing it's an ideal setting to relax and forget. Along the same line, she hoped to remain secretive while hiding the surprise.

"How do you feel?" Jim asked, drawing his son close.

Luis didn't answer, but based on their expressions, he'd made them proud. And for him, such feelings of fulfillment were agreeable.

"I don't know..." he replied. "It's been a long journey."

His mother cuddled him close.

"We're so proud of you."

Everything felt routine, so Luis planned for an enjoyable summer.

"I need space," he announced as his father seized his cap and gown.

"You deserve it," Jim proclaimed. "Though there's one more thing."

Luis chuckled.

"Why am I not surprised?"

Caroline hurried everyone along to save time. But while doing so, Luis again recalled his mother's fondness for extravagance. And despite not sharing her vitality, it's something he expected.

"Where are we going?" he questioned while sitting in the back seat.

Caroline peered over the headrest.

"That's for us to know, and for you to wonder about."

The sun was waning, and the evening became muggy. But Luis savored the sights even amid the neighborhood's deteriorating conditions. Disease and poverty were concerns, so he broadened his work with the environment.

Meanwhile, routes to the Clove Club felt impeded by recurring traffic delays. So, Caroline reserved a suite at a hotel within London's economic sector: the Four Seasons at Park Lane. Yet another costly expenditure, but one worth the peace of mind.

"This is madness," Jim bellowed.

Caroline giggled and caressed his hand.

"Relax, I've taken the liberties."

Jim always followed rules, but punctuality remained prominent for someone of his stature. That aside, Luis was always the voice of reason.

"Don't worry," he expressed. "They'll honor the reservation."