The Dark Society

50

 Sabrina prepared for service as nightfall approached. Abandoning the schoolgirl facade, she embraced far darker traits. An obsession that'd helped shape her existence thus far. Despite everything, she greeted everyone, despite Julia's persistent stare.

"Look at you," Michelle declared, drawing close.

Sabrina chuckled and embraced her.

"Heading out?" Julia interjected.

"Yes..." her daughter answered, turning to Michelle. "We shouldn't be too late."

Sabrina rarely made excuses, but she'd disguised her true motives. Even still, Michelle always watched over her daughter. Though, Julia now questioned the reasons for doing so. Even so, Tim's humor felt necessary as he entered the room.

"I thought Halloween was in October?" he joked, inspecting the girls' attire.

Michelle grinned.

"Oh, stop... She's beautiful."

Julia locked eyes with Sabrina, who looked away. Her mother sensed the deception, but Sabrina followed through anyway. However, concealing intentions confirmed the effects of the family's inherited curse. With that, Tim watched as Julia advanced, angered.

"What is it?" he questioned.

"She lied to me," she whispered, before retreating to the living room.

Later that evening, the girls arrived in Strong City. Michelle appeared controlled, though Sabrina seemed withdrawn and contemplative.

"How is this supposed to go?" she asked, gazing at the church.

Michelle giggled.

"It's not your first sermon... Plus, everyone's expecting you."

"Everyone?" Sabrina questioned.

"You'll see."

Despite popular opinion, everything made sense. Even so, friends failed to understand that distancing from the crowds was necessary. So, Sabrina returned home prepared to embrace destiny.

"I have to ask..." Michelle announced, peering into the rear-view mirror. "How are you coping?"

"It's been interesting."

From experience, Michelle understood, but Sabrina wasn't eager to discuss personal matters. This way, she could avoid personal questions.

"I can only imagine," Michelle replied.

"I'm tired of the mystery," Sabrina continued. "I want to be normal, like everyone else."

"But you're not," Michelle affirmed, gesturing to the birthmark.

Sabrina noted a diverse group as they entered the church. Though she didn't know them, they somehow felt connected. Meanwhile, unknown callings persisted, confirming initial instincts--there was something more.

"It's time," Michelle said, motioning Sabrina inside.

They passed through the darkness, accessed a rear entrance, and found a familiar face.

"Raina?" Sabrina gasped.

"Welcome home, sister," she responded, offering an embrace.

"I missed you."

"Likewise."

Raina was influential in Sabrina's life since childhood. But, like Michelle, she'd adopted a more cultish appearance. With ruby red hair tinted with black and attire coordinated to match. Something unexpected, but welcomed.

Sabrina observed a niche adorned with twin leather couches and large canvases. Positioned against a stark background that displayed a recognizable phrase:

"See through the lies - Truth is everywhere."

Sabrina thought of Jennifer. For, it's the exact phrase she'd uttered on the plane and again during an unexpected visit to the family home. But now, she recognized its significance, despite many interpretations.

Meanwhile, she noted Raina's changing demeanor. Almost vigorous and energetic, yet also relaxed and formal. However, Sabrina disregards this oddity, since Raina's behavior seemed forced.

"What now?" Sabrina questioned.

"Someone wants to meet you," Raina admitted, gesturing forward.

A tall, clean-cut man in ankle-length robes entered, closing the curtains behind him.

"Sabrina..." he greeted. "I've been expecting you."

"And you are?" she asked.

With a subtle nod, he smiled.

"Sovereign Paul Steele."