The Dark Society

13

 The girls unbolted the doors and passed through. As they did so, Sabrina grew pale and unsteady. Thus, she gripped a nearby countertop, head bowed low. Seeing this, Tatum panicked but refused to show it.

Sabrina retrieved a bag from the counter and searched it. Tatum expected to see medicine, but viewed something strange—a sacred medallion. Thus, she observed while Sabrina clutched the artifact and mumbled.

"What's wrong?" Tatum asked. "You're scaring me."

Sabrina caught her reflection in the mirror as her eyes shifted from dark to light. Her worst fears seemed confirmed; the ascension was progressing.

"It's nothing," she whispered, turning away.

Tatum continued watching, reflecting on what she'd seen. Sabrina wanted to explain, but Julia swore her to secrecy. Instead, she moved across the room, settling on the couch as a sudden rain began.

Visions of unfamiliar places and faces flashed through Sabrina's mind. But with the ascension underway, such occurrences happened often. Ergo, she swept her dark hair aside and gestured for Tatum to come closer.

"It's alright," she said. "I won't bite."

Tatum joined her, staring with wide-eyed curiosity. Sabrina felt uncertain about how Tatum might react. Though she wanted to ease any fears before answering questions.

"How did you do that?" Tatum asked, moving closer.

"Do what?"

Tatum found her courage.

"Your eyes."

Sabrina reached into an adjacent bag.

"It's a long story, but this should help explain."

"Tarot cards?" Tatum asked, looking confused.

"You've seen them?" Sabrina inquired, arranging the cards.

"Here and there, but I thought only witches used them."

"No, devotees and people of faith do also."

"So which one are you?"

Sabrina smiled.

"Does it matter?"

Tatum noticed the birthmark on Sabrina's left wrist, but she pulled down her sleeve to hide it.

"I guess not," Tatum muttered.

Sabrina flipped the first card: the upright Fool. A familiar image representing innocence and new beginnings. Under normal circumstances, this would be a positive reading. Though Sabrina also recognized its warnings of recklessness and betrayal.

"What does it mean?" Tatum asked, noting Sabrina's troubled expression.

"You're at the threshold of change," Sabrina replied with a forced smile.

"What about you?" Tatum pressed.

Sabrina stood and moved to the window.

"I'll let you decide."

"What do you mean?"

"Move your hand over the cards," Sabrina instructed. "Then turn over the one you feel the most energy from."

Tatum selected a card from the row of three and flipped it over.

"The upright Empress."

Sabrina's heart sank and eyes fell. For it's the same card she'd drawn countless times. An ominous prophecy of emptiness, shadowed by visions of darkness. A destiny she could no longer escape.

"Who are you?" Tatum asked, standing up.

Sabrina glanced over her shoulder.

"A small-town country girl, nothing more."

"No," Tatum persisted. "There's something else, because from the moment we met, I knew you were special."

Sabrina turned to face her.

"I don't want to be."

Tatum moved closer.

"I'm glad we found each other, because I couldn't do this alone."

Sabrina brushed Tatum's auburn hair away from her face.

"Me too."

The girls remained inseparable since that day. Adopting mannerisms that mirrored each other's personalities. Yet Sabrina continued to suffer from haunting visions. Premonitions that caused her to withdraw from society. While avoiding questions about her family, past, or spiritual beliefs.

Meanwhile, Tatum made fast friends while discovering the diverse spiritual communities throughout campus. Plus, she'd gained valuable insight into the occult. One of the many reasons she and Sabrina connected.

Curiosity about Sabrina's spiritual affiliation continued to grow. And while theological practices among students varied, Sabrina remained an enigma. Imperial University embodied many dark influences and dangerous factions. Paths Tatum had thus far avoided.

Instead, she spent time studying with Sabrina. Developing an innovative and determined spirit. Also, she'd learned to understand the value of life and virtues of spiritual practice. Soon after, Tatum shared these newfound interests with her parents.

However, they disapproved of the association. Believing Sabrina embodied a sinister and untrustworthy presence. That night, Tatum opened the windows and took in the cool evening air. She lived in uncertain times and faced spiritual challenges and diversity. So, only time would tell if this girl from southern Georgia could adapt.