The Dark Society

58

The term had ended, but final grades weren't the only pressing concern. Trina and Jasmine were still missing, and all inquiries into their whereabouts had proven inconclusive.

But despite their darkest suspicions, classmates continued searching for explanations. Meanwhile, another worry had emerged: Karen was pursuing the impossible--immortality. By chance, Jordan had a colleague named Carl Turner who worked for the Norwich Constabulary.

Carl thought he might have spotted Karen at a local Norwich market days earlier, and when her father showed him a photo, his recognition was immediate. Carl didn't normally encounter girls like Karen, which made him confident in his identification.

Around the same time, the town common had grown crowded, yet for Alex, Tatum, and Lyndsey, it became a time for contemplation. For months, Kyle and Logan's suspected involvement, coupled with Karen's absence, had heightened everyone's anxiety.

After a lengthy but passionate discussion, Alex made an abrupt decision. That afternoon, he, Tatum, and Lyndsey arrived at Karen's Norwich residence, only to find it surrounded by a well-guarded encampment.

With time to look around and ask questions, they decided to start with the local markets, based on Carl's tip.

"Hello," Alex said, approaching the counter. "I need some help."

"How can I assist you?" the cashier replied.

Alex presented a photo. "I'm looking for this girl."

The cashier squinted. "Oh, that's Karen."

Alex's eyes widened. "You've seen her?"

"Often," she said. "Her parents own a villa not far from here."

"Yes, I know. Did she mention anything about staying there?"

"No, she doesn't talk much." The attendant paused. "But she's never alone."

"What do you mean?"

"Just this morning, for instance, she was with the same group of people."

Alex showed her several more pictures. "Is this the group?"

The shopkeeper nodded. "The girls stay with her, but the guys wait outside."

Alex peered into the gathering dusk as Tatum sat waiting for news.

"So?"

"Karen's coven is here," he said, pulling away. "They're seeking the spirits and the power to command them."

"That's impossible, even for them, isn't it?"

"That's exactly why they're here."