The Dark Society

38

 Radiant sunshine illuminated the Lady of Victories. Set in East London, this three-story edifice showcased many hand-crafted architectural features. In particular, the towering Gothic spires accentuating London's skyline. The institution became renowned for its distinctive curriculum. But, under Archbishop Leon Luen's guidance, scholars excelled in ancient mystical philosophies.

However, the academy faced criticism due to its alleged ties to occultism. Alligations prompting Luen to bring about strict discipline. As a result, some students rebelled, studying forbidden arts beyond the institution's walls. Yet, the coven remained loyal, eager to defend their sanctuary's sanctity. This is why, when the sisters arrived, Leon received them with measured grace.

Clad in traditional ankle-length black robes, his distinctive short, well-manicured hair gleamed. The Archbishop stood by his personable nature, but today his expression was grave. He feared losing control, and without structure, the academy would crumble. Thus, drawing close, Luen clutched his rosary and spoke.

"I thought we had trust between us."

Dena approached.

"Why would you think otherwise?"

Leon squinted and descended the stairs, reading their unguarded expressions. The sisters made no attempt to disguise intentions, since Karen's exile was undeniable.

"Why have you summoned us?" Sienna asked.

The Archbishop fixed his stare upon her.

"You should've expected it."

He noted their growing anxiety, but Leon remained composed. Moreover, he wanted details about Karen's condition, no matter how dire. So, he reviewed ancient texts and waited.

"The holy trinity..." Sienna recited from memory. "Details the fates of witches who abandon the church."

Dena interjected.

"It also outlines the requirements to summon ancient spirits--entities considered mere figments."

The Archbishop loomed over them as Lesley stepped closer.

"She's a governing witch, nothing more," she added. "Besides, Karen's still ascending and hasn't embodied her full power."

Luen stepped back.

"In time, she will," he affirmed. "Then her strength will rival the elders."

"Impossible!" Sienna exclaimed.

Luen gathered his ledgers.

"It's simple," he revealed. "If your faith remains unwavering, there's nothing to fear. But, I suspect otherwise, and with doubt comes consequence."

Though the girls remained defiant, Sienna immediately grasped the implication.

"Karen intends to invoke an elder's spirit."

Leon nodded.

"Even if it costs her life."

"What else?" Lesley questioned.

"Such ambition isn't a hindrance--it's a blessing," he added.

He'd guided the coven as they ascended and embraced their power. Yet even with their combined abilities, Karen's departure proved detrimental. As a result, the Archbishop felt betrayed, despite the sect's loyalty.

He remembered being a student himself. Enacting his mentor's sacred teachings whenever possible. On a similar note, Karen weathered distrust while avoiding opposition. Given this parallel, Luen accepted the rise of modern occultists.

In the end, Karen's dark transformation came as no surprise. As external influences and a hunger for mastery changed her. However, with Karen's fate uncertain, a long-suppressed desire stirred within.