The Dark Society

90

 Samantha retreated to The Birdsong. Though, burdened by the images of a family she'd identified with. More, there was something in the basement of the Kole home--something symbolic. Sam also focused on Jennifer. Whose recent actions personified the qualities of a reformed woman. Still, as Samantha settled, unexpected thumps echoed throughout.

"Anna?" she whispered after opening the door.

Jennifer emerged, appearing weary and panicked. But, as everyone embraced, it's as though nothing changed. Even so, Anna guarded Katherine's secret. Yet, with the coven wars looming, the truth needed to be exposed.

"Your father's alive."

Jennifer gasped.

"How...?" she uttered. "It's been seventeen years."

Sam immediately noted Jennifer's tone and sensed the reality of betrayal.

"What's she talking about?"

Anna seized Jennifer's hand.

"It's alright--she needs to know."

"The departure ticket..." she explained. "I left it hoping you'd follow."

Hearing this, Anna paused, sensing something more.

"You've found Sabrina."

"First at the Bistro and then again this morning..." she replied. "So I followed her and saw another with this..." Sam added, pointing to her birthmark. "Then..." she continued, "I found Saint Anthony's."

Anna moved to the window and parted the drapes.

"During this time, I also met a caretaker who somehow knew me..." she elaborated. "An illusion I didn't recognize until I recalled where I was..." Sam scowled. "But I guess that's expected now, isn't it?"

Jennifer stared.

"What did he tell you?"

"Sabrina's the reason you lured me here..." she continued. "Then, you knew I'd find the church, the Kole home, and question the connections. So who are they?"

Anna sighed.

"Your family."

Sam appeared angry.

"All this time, and neither of you said anything..." she stated. "Allowing me to believe a life of lies. Why?"

"It's what your mother wanted," Anna admitted.

"My mother...?" she retorted. "It'll appease you to know I remember nothing of her. So, what's happened to me?"

Anna hesitated.

"Katherine shielded your memories with ethereality. But, you know in your heart everything I've said is true."

"Do I...?" Sam questioned. "I don't know what the truth is anymore. You've both deceived me and now expect me to believe you?"

Anna paused.

"Here is the truth--Saint Anthony's stands on an ancient burial ground. Haunted by spirits of evil surviving the ages of purification. Unearthed, demonic spirits which enveloped the church and its congregation..."

"Your father, a virtuous apologist, succumbed to these influences. And through no control of his own, he vowed to convert your mother. But, he failed, so I'm afraid you and your sister are next."

Sam stepped closer.

"Are you saying my father tried to enslave my mother?"

"Yes..." she continued. "Yet Katherine resisted and sheltered you and your sister before leaving Strong City. That's how you came to Saint Ann's while Sabrina stayed with Julia."

Sam slumped against the counter.

"Then Julia is Katherine's sister and an elder of Saint Anthony's..." she announced. "But, if we're family, why separate us?"

Anna smiled.

"Because you and Sabrina are to one day govern the church. Liberate the bloodline and take your rightful places as elders of the coven."

Samantha recoiled and strived to compose herself. However, in light of such revelations, she wasn't able to.

"There's more..." Anna revealed. "Saint Ann's is gone, and so are its students."

Sam was furious.

"Because of him?"

"Yes."

The reality was inconceivable, considering everything. And though Anna was forthcoming, Sam felt consumed by loss. Thus, she gathered personal items and prepared to leave.

"Sam, don't go," Jennifer pleaded.

She turned and glared.

"I need time."