The Dark Society

68

Julia gazed into a twilight devoid of moon or stars, her thoughts dwelling on Sabrina. She had unexpectedly bonded with the elders, nurturing her connection to Saint Anthony's. However, mutual resentments had grown, and because of this, she--like Katherine--resolved to end the sovereign's corrosive influence.

Julia often recalled the pain of her niece and sister's absences, alongside Jennifer's cryptic insights. But Tim would soon arrive, and together they would deliberate the potential consequences.

"Checking up on me?" she asked when he appeared.

He grinned. "No, I grew lonely."

She giggled. "You were never a good liar."

Tim lovingly moved closer and took her hand. "I've never seen you like this."

She peered into the skies again. "I know, but despite our efforts, it's happening."

"How did something so simple become so convoluted?"

She glanced at him. "I wish I knew."

"What happens now?"

"Everything we feared." she advised. "Besides, Sabrina's ascending and exhibiting the traits."

"It'll be worse if you say nothing," Tim said. "But, she deserves the truth, no matter how absurd it sounds."

Julia recoiled. "Tim, what if after all these years it's Samantha, and she's found Sabrina?"

He stared at her intently. "You think she won't...?" He paused. "Nevertheless, we need to believe she'll do what's right--Katherine does."

Julia gestured helplessly. "I hope you're right, because Sabrina's adapting."

"Do you think she'll convert?"

Julia grew still. "I don't know, but she's bonded with the coven. Plus, with Jennifer's connection to Sam, who knows what might happen?"

"So you've spoken with Jennifer?"

Julia considered this. "Earlier today. And I'm convinced that finding Sabrina wasn't a coincidence."

"You don't trust her?"

"At this point, I trust no one," she confessed. "After all, she's interested in Sabrina and knows about Samantha."

"There's no proof of a connection."

Julia exposed her wrist. "Only my bloodline bears this mark, and she recognized it immediately."

"Jennifer's an emissary?"

"With Samantha involved, it's entirely plausible."

"You sound certain."

Julia began pacing. "Tim, Jennifer knows everything."

"But Katherine took every precaution."

"Like Anna, she's a day witch," Julia explained. "An appointed mediator between Samantha and Sabrina."

"You've sensed Samantha's presence?"

Julia groaned. "She's near--I can feel it. The energies are strong and undeniable."

"In that case, we should prepare."

"Yes," she announced grimly. "Because it's only a matter of time."