The Dark Society

85

 Karen secluded within a serene setting bordering the North Sea: Camden Manor. While savoring the sunrise, she received an unexpected call from Alex.

"Hey," she greeted. "Have you spoken with your mother?"

He hesitated.

"Yes, but I felt unnerved by her tone."

"Why's that?"

"She sounded evasive, and I don't understand why," he acknowledged. "Anyway, I thought Jessica would've arrived by now."

Karen gazed out at the swells.

"She'll visit your parents first. That's how she is--methodical and secretive."

"At least she doesn't know where you are."

Karen grinned.

"Trust me, she'll find out."

"In that case, it's not safe for you to stay."

"Don't worry," she retorted while stepping inside. "I'll be fine."

His jovial mood changed following a message from Diana.

"What's wrong?"

"Trina and Jasmine," Alex announced. "They're dead."

"What?" Karen shouted. "How?"

"I don't know. My father saw the article this morning, so I have to go."

Across the city, Jessica and Jordan met with Stephen and Diana. Unfortunately, Karen now recognized her talents and how to use them, so everyone feared the worst.

"I don't want authorities involved," Jordan advised. "But Karen's become dangerous, and we must bring her home."

Diana rose and moved to the window.

"Then you know where she is?"

"Yes," Jessica answered.

Diana turned back to face them.

"How bad is it?"

Jessica's gaze dropped.

"Karen stopped taking medication months ago and has foregone further therapy."

"So she's ascended?" Stephen questioned.

Jessica glanced at Jordan.

"Not yet, though she's obsessed with invoking the spirit of an elder."

"Does she have the neophyte?" Diana inquired.

"Thankfully, no," Jordan answered.

Diana's expression darkened.

"Only a seasoned witch can evoke such power. Plus, she needs to channel the corners alongside the coven."

Jordan squinted.

"Or arrange a séance governed by a sovereign of equal strength."

"We must inform Alex," Stephen suggested as Jessica stared ahead.

"I'm not sure we should."

"Why not?" Diana questioned.

"For the same reason I alienated Luis--to prevent a war between the species."

Karen remained resolute, dedicated to securing the goddess's sovereignty. Thus, Diana conferred with her son.

"Alex is on the way."

"Alone?" Jordan asked.

"From what he said."

"That's our chance," Jessica suggested. "While he's here, Jordan and I will locate Karen."

"If he becomes suspicious, he'll tell her." Diana explained as Jessica and Jordan prepared to leave.

"He's not the one I'm worried about," Jessica stated.