The Dark Society

27

 Dusky skies cast shadows across everything. But Anna passed through memorial gardens, mindful of nature's looming fury. Tremors surged through the earth. Yet, as a seasoned day witch, she'd always heeded messages from the environment.

On another note, despite countless pleas for amnesty, psalms were coming to fruition. So, Anna fortified the cathedral, determined to protect the temple's occupants. She'd endured alone since the beginning, leaving little room for empathy.

Yet Katherine Morgan changed her life. Thus, Anna thought of her often, hoping she'd found contentment. She also considered Harold. And despite his inability to escape Saint Anthony's, remembered him well.

The skies darkened further, and the winds intensified. As this happened, the south gate became unhinged and began swinging in the gusts. Then, as the heavens were about to erupt, Anna stood shocked, staring into the distance.

"Samantha?"

Samantha immediately passed through, latched the gate, and escorted Anna inside. That's where they shared a warm embrace.

"Let me look at you," Anna remarked, pulling back to study her visitor.

She'd tutored Samantha since childhood and shielded her from negative energies. However, some similarities to the young girl remained. Yet, Saint Ann's most coveted student now seemed different. Still, they settled within the chapel and savored a warm cup of tea.

"Anna, I need to know," Sam demanded, taking a sip.

Anna recalled the night Sam arrived to Saint Ann's. Replaying it again and again, despite knowing the consequences of revealing the truth. Instead, she offered Samantha a porcelain figurine.

"What's this?"

Anna smiled.

"An effigy of Hecate—your goddess."

"What am I supposed to do with it?"

Anna leaned forward.

"You'll know soon enough."

Anna wanted to confess everything. But if the prophecies were accurate, Samantha needed to remain sheltered. Because she'd exhibit distinct auras of darkness, and soon Saint Anthony's would beckon.

"I shouldn't have come, but I had to see you," Sam said.

Anna's expression grew somber.

"I know."

Samantha scowled.

"I don't know what to do. I'm burdened by thoughts and images I can't define."

Anna pondered this.

"Then you've felt the summons?"

"Yes, but you already knew that," she retorted. "The adversities aren't the worst part--the absences are detrimental."

Sam drew closer.

"Who are they? And where do I find them?"

Anna cringed.

"First, you must reunite with Jennifer."

Sam's posture relaxed.

"I met with John and Cindy. She's gone to a place called Cottonwood Falls."

"Oh no."

Sam snapped to attention.

"What is it?"

Anna swayed.

"Nothing, but I presume she's seeking asylum."

"From what?"

Anna rose and gazed upon a distant portrait.

"Sam, everyone has a destiny. Now it's time to fulfill yours."

"I can't control the transitions," Sam clarified. "Physical, emotional, psychological—it's impossible."

She moved closer to Anna.

"I have no past except for the mosque, although I know there's more."

Anna continued studying the painting, recalling its relevance.

Sam seized her hand.

"What aren't you telling me?"

Anna's eyes lifted to meet hers.

"It's no longer safe here. You must go."

Sam recoiled, knowing Anna wasn't dismissing her without reason. And despite how hurtful the sentiment was, she'd heed the warning. Alas, Anna sensed Sam's anguish but remained hopeful, despite knowing the truth.