The Dark Society

63

 Over time, Alex's need to absolve Karen became an obsession, while Tatum remained disillusioned by Lyndsey's ongoing defiance. Typically, she was engaged, yet disguised any apparent affiliation. Be it what it would, she accompanied Tatum and Alex to the resort, hoping for absolution.

"What are you doing?" Tatum challenged.

Getting ready, Alex sneered.

"Going inside."

Hardly surprising, cameras guarded the resort, but despite controlled conditions, it presented an ideal opportunity. Meanwhile, Tatum feared Lyndsey's mindset, and hoped to keep her focused.

"I'm worried about you." she stated, gaping.

Suddenly, Lyndsey smirked.

"You should be more concerned for your friend."

True to form, delicate wickerwork illuminated everything. An ambience Karen always employed when hosting the sisterhood. Only, this wasn't a social occasion, but a reunion to decide a course of action. As of today, she retains power, and mutual trust was expected.

Although, converged at a central table, silent gestures revealed genuine feelings. More than that, Karen's recent actions and fidelity to obsessions caused concern.

In consequence, it wasn't unusual for there to be a few abutting opinions. Whatever the case, she was adept at identifying intentions, and as each tarot landed, sinful ambitions became obvious. As an effect, Karen resented everyone and frequently seemed angered. Above that, enmities were compounded by notions of veiled collusions.

Of late, Stern toured the Lady of Victories, questioning Bishop Luen. After which, he focused more on Karen and the sisterhood. Actions leaving the validity surrounding Trina and Jasmine forgotten. In the contrary case, Karen never seemed arrogant or worried, though steady smirks loitered as she drifted forward and stared.

With one accord, Kyle and Logan accompanied Dena and Lesley. Loyalists engaged with the cause, and a neutrality that surpassed belief. No matter how, they stayed devoted, so Karen was accommodating.

Now, Alex's thoughts raced, knowing Karen's solidity was fading. Although, he always protected her and was determined to do so again. Barring this in mind, he entered the resort as the girls waited, still and solitary.

Not long after, Karen arose, neared a back window, and parted drapes. Initially, she seemed agitated, but in complete control. An omission that promptly captivated attention.

"What is it?" Sienna asked, closing.

"We have guests." she answered, pawing valances.

For a while now, he sheltered, though sudden motions prompted Alex to leap to his feet, where he'd stand poised before Karen's sect. At which point, stares pivoted while postures seemed misleading. More importantly, they no longer resembled the friends he once knew. On that note, Alex grew defensive, though encircled, and powerless to flee.

Throughout, Tatum's anxieties heightened, realizing he'd accessed the sanctuary uninvited. In which case, she made another pivotal decision. Albeit, she didn't act impulsively, since Karen controlled Lyndsey and the coven. (An influence she was powerless to counteract). But after everything, Alex returned with a sombre and emotionless disposition.

"Karen's alright." he proclaimed, settling.

More and more, Tatum eased into the seat.

"You saw her?"

"Yes." he emphasized, pulling away.

Late into the night, countless stars adorned the dusk. Another glimpse of majesty, in light of the brutality of recent events. Even still, resentment and desires for vengeance flourished, thus new schemes were bolstered.

"He'll talk." Kyle insisted, staring.

Adjusting, Karen smirked.

"Of that, I'm certain."

Progressively, Logan closed.

"And Tatum?"

Smiling smugly, she twisted.

"Soon, she'll no longer be a problem."