The Dark Society

51

 Sabrina felt awestruck by Paul's renowned accomplishments. But, she still heeded her mother's advice about pastors from foreign provinces. Unfortunately, Sabrina held no memories of Saint Anthony's. Thus, Paul's overzealous behavior put her on the defensive.

"You're staring," she stated.

He winced.

"Forgive me," Paul said. "You resemble your mother in every way."

"My mother?"

Paul smiled.

"An ordained witch who once served this temple. However, due to unknown circumstances, she abandoned this sect."

"She never told me," Sabrina replied.

"I don't imagine she would."

Sabrina struggled to control emerging powers and needed guidance. So, the sovereign led her into the hallway where she discovered the source of the summons.

"It's her!" she announced, approaching a life-sized statue of the Goddess Aphrodite.

"You know the mythology?"

"One of the many inherited legacies my mother told me about," she answered.

Paul retreated as Michelle and Raina returned.

"If you'll excuse me, I must prepare," he said.

Sabrina watched him leave with keen interest, finding the sudden departure odd.

"Does being here stir any memories?" Raina asked, embracing her.

"I'm not sure," Sabrina replied.

The sisters joined hands and entered the churchyard. For Sabrina, Aphrodite triggered a reaction like those she'd experienced in London. Even still, Sabrina remained calm while entering a corridor decorated with intricate wickerwork. An ambiance the coven remembered from a lifetime of intimate rituals.

However, this setting was new with many unknowns. So, the sisters watched as Sabrina gazed around in wonder. Unbeknownst to anyone, Raina consulted Julia about the effects of Sabrina's ascension. But, refrained from mentioning anything so far.

Next, Sabrina explored the chambers, savoring everything with reverent curiosity. Witnessing this, Raina's fears stood confirmed. Sabrina's connection to Saint Anthony's was real, and she'd embraced the goddess's strength. Ergo, those once thought forgotten soon returned.

"Sabrina."

She turned.

"Denise."

Draped in black robes, Denise Hawthorne embodied everything a benevolent witch should. But though she appeared mesmerizing, others soon followed, eager to complete the circle.

"Kim Savage and Rachelle Sullivan," she whispered.

The greetings were tender as the sect encircled and embraced. And though Sabrina moved away months ago, with her return, the coven seemed unified again. The women entered the chapel together for the first time in months. And to Paul's surprise, the congregation fell silent. Thus, he retreated to the central podium, intent on suppressing their excitement.

Meanwhile, Sabrina felt the spiritual impulses. But, being within Saint Anthony's again awakened new and inexplicable sensations. All the same, doctrines about reverence were clear. So, despite the attention, she exercised restraint. Regardless of that, Paul felt fearful. And after sensing Sabrina's aura, understood why.