The Dark Society

59

Freedom: something Samantha needed and a change she'd welcome. By coincidence, central Kansas resembled San Francisco in many respects, though such a rural area didn't usually harbor sanctuary for a witch.

Meanwhile, while traveling the main highway into Strong City, a calling arose again. The suburb appeared remote at first, but the source of the summons was now radiating from a prominent cathedral downtown.

"Can I help you, miss?" a voice called out as an obscure gentleman approached.

Sam shifted and stared.

"What is this place?"

He watched with apprehension.

"Saint Anthony's Cathedral: a sanctuary of the Wiccan faith," he answered. "But you should know that already."

His name was Albert, and on the surface he appeared older, attired to resemble a seasoned caretaker. Even so, she wouldn't turn him away from his purpose, though he'd already opened doors and moved inside.

"Why would I?" she asked while following.

Like Saint Ann's, Saint Anthony's was ethereal, with elegant grand altarpieces shrouded by elaborate wickerwork. It resembled everything a sanctum should be in essence, but with one difference. Nestled beside the pulpit was an ottoman trimmed in burgundy velvet with a gold framework, signifying someone special despite the absence of any inscription.

Next, the interior doors opened, revealing an exotic new world. Now, Saint Ann's valued its adornments, but Saint Anthony's was distinct. Many past deities and subordinates sat venerated here--none more so than when the statues of the eminent goddesses Hecate and Aphrodite emerged from the shadows.

Sam instantly retrieved the miniature statue Anna had gifted her and placed it at Aphrodite's feet. She'd infiltrated a domain of sinister illusion by the looks of it, but regardless of any missing memories, Saint Anthony's felt familiar. And for that, the embers of animosity were nurtured.

"The Sovereign can answer any questions," Albert proclaimed.

"Sovereign?" Sam inquired while caressing Hecate's statue.

"Yes, Pastor Steele..." he said. "He's overseen this institution since the previous director departed."

She turned.

"Before, you said I should've known--what did you mean?"

He gestured to several distinct paintings.

"The Morgans..." he described. "Masters of witchcraft and the keepers of this sanctuary."

Sam tensed amid the sensations of familiarity while also standing enraptured by Katherine's hypnotic gaze. However, Albert appeared puzzled by Sam's lack of recognition, but he knew she was entrusted and belonged.

The truth about Sam's existence was unknown, yet with this new insight into her history, finding Jennifer had become essential. Finally, and most importantly, Anna--someone she admired--had been concealing an undeniable truth.