The Dark Society

67

 The bonding ritual solidified doubts and invoked unity. But regardless. Paul's evasiveness left everyone intrigued. Though, as Sabrina neared the student gallery, a familiar face provided instant clarity.

"Marc?"

"Sabrina?" he responded, surprise evident in his voice.

"I'm surprised to see you."

"I can imagine," he said. "What are you doing here?"

Sabrina hesitated, recalling the conflicts between him and Michelle. Likewise, Raina remained unsure of his motives and urged discretion.

"I'm checking into summer programs. Nothing major."

Tones grew harsh.

"Have you heard about Trina and Jasmine?" he inquired. "I understand it's become a homicide investigation."

Sabrina trembled.

"How do you know about that?"

He smirked.

"News travels fast. But it's the worst possible scenario, I'm afraid."

She stepped away as he moved forward.

"Do you remember Karen Solomon?"

At those words Sabrina tensed.

"Something wrong?"

"Shocking to hear such news," she replied. "But Karen lives abroad, so I'm surprised you're acquainted."

"Well," he added, "the sect attends various Wiccan exhibitions, so we often see each other."

"I've never met her myself."

Marc chuckled.

"As they say, be careful what you wish for. I have to go--it was nice seeing you. Give Raina my best."

Sabrina pondered his revelation, knowing Luis, Alex and Karen were close. Yet, no one mentioned having acquaintances abroad, nor anything about Trina and Jasmine. Sabrina resolved to uncover the answers that eluded even the most experienced investigators.

Meanwhile, dark visions persisted while Marc's admission echoed. Yet, despite these doubts, she searched amid echoes of Trina and Jasmine's final pleas. An impractical vision, but she didn't remember being there.

Yet, details were as clear as if she'd seen everything firsthand. The clouded skies, obscured ravine, the cryptic ending. Incriminating specifics even Detective Stern didn't know about.

She considered Tatum's friendship, knowing Stern would use it against her. But, until finding proof of her innocence, nothing she said would matter. Then again, Sabrina didn't need to defend herself. Though, experience taught her to expect the improbable.

Finally, she thought of her parents. Understanding she'd hidden truths to disguise intentions. However, the coven wasn't the only motive for secrecy. Because, the reasons for the Morgans' exodus appeared inconclusive. And with that, Sabrina needed to examine the sealed archives.

Newspaper columns and other regional accounts were available. But, upon reviewing the literature, many narratives were missing. However, probing further, one article included eyewitness statements and police photographs.

It stated Katherine fled with two children after allegedly murdering her husband. To this day, ensuing searches uncovered nothing, while the family remains missing. Seeing this, Sabrina sighed, since no proof of Trina and Jasmine's murders existed.

Later, she was again drawn to Katherine's portrait. Nothing seemed unusual, but gazing closer, something appeared unobtrusive. Several centimeters above each of their left hands was an inscription. Sabrina's eyes widened because it's the same mark she bore.

Thus, she left for home, desperate to find her mother. Observing from the shadows, Marc emerged, collected the discarded documents and followed. All the while hoping Sabrina would lead him to Samantha.