The Dark Society

98

Raina seethed with rage, knowing that Paul reveled in the coven's setbacks. Meanwhile, Marc had his own agenda--he wanted Michelle at his side more than ever. Desperate for resolution, Raina gathered the sisters together.

"How do we proceed?" Michelle asked.

"As we planned," Raina replied curtly, placing ancient relics at the heart of a massive tree stump.

Though renowned as a master weaver, Raina's schemes were often intricate and obscure. Even still, Paul had successfully hindered the sect's attempts to break free from the cult, keeping everyone isolated as the preparations continued.

"What about Sabrina?" Kim questioned. "Why isn't she here supporting us?"

Raina turned with a knowing smile. "In a way, she is."

Raina had abandoned traditional theology and embraced Harold's teachings earlier than originally planned. Despite being an adept spellcaster, she remained naive about proper ritual methods. Regardless, she was determined to succeed despite Paul's interference.

"Has Samantha visited Strong City?" Denise pressed.

"Yes," Raina whispered, retrieving a small goatskin pouch. "The caretaker's confessions hold truth."

Albert had been adamant about meeting Samantha from the beginning, frequently noting the uncanny similarities between her and Sabrina.

"Raina," Rachelle interjected, "what about the other covens?"

She turned to face them. "They'll arrive soon. Given the prophecy, we must prepare."

Michelle had questioned Marc's devotion to Saint Anthony's from day one and a coup seemed inevitable. Thus, their relationship remained shrouded in mystery. Opposite that, the sisters had sworn to Sabrina's affiliation, but if Albert's claims were true, she and Samantha were Saint Anthony's elders.

With this in mind, Raina arranged several unmarked libation candles: pure black with five-inch tapers radiating from their centers.

Directing Samantha's psyche would be challenging at best, so this ritual aimed to summon another--her mother, Katherine. Yet, the rules governing such summons were specific, the consequences severe, so Raina had to be certain.

That evening, Raina sat alone as negative energies filled the space. She had positioned a solitary mixing cauldron and lit purposeful incense, hoping to purify the unclean spirits. Unfortunately, something had disrupted the previous day's ritual--something unholy.

Still, she dismissed the interruption, believing Paul was somehow involved. On a related note, Marc's newfound omnipresence added another layer of concern. Ergo, after arranging the tarot cards, Raina consulted the goddess.

Each card depicted changing seasons--metaphors illustrating a witch's transition. All told, Katherine's existence remained a mystery that Paul had somehow rediscovered. Plus, he had observed the rise of the modern breed and sought to claim their power.

However, his attempts had failed, and he'd lost his followers and his ability to direct the practice. This gave Raina confidence--until an unexpected knock shattered the silence.

"I hope this isn't a bad time," Marc said, stepping inside.

She smiled and gestured for him to follow. "Not at all. What brings you here?"

Taking a seat, he noticed the strong scent permeating the air. "I've always enjoyed that smell."

"It's a new blend," she said, gesturing to a nearby container. "But you're not here to discuss fragrances."

Marc fixed her with a penetrating stare. "Not exactly. Given recent events, I assume you have questions."

Raina immediately thought of Sabrina, and though Marc considered her a friend, their bond wasn't particularly strong. So, suspecting that Paul had sent Marc for answers, she withdrew.

"Nothing important," she declared. "Though I was curious--are you planning to bond?"

Marc shifted uncomfortably. "Of course. It's well overdue."

Raina felt puzzled. Marc's tone was unnerving, but she maintained appearances to avoid suspicion.

"I'm glad," she said. "It's important we show solidarity."

He glared at her. "I agree, but I know you're skeptical of my intentions."

Raina shook her head. "Not as much as you think. I'd be more concerned about Michelle."

"Believe it or not, I'm watching over her."

She leaned forward. "There's more to it than that. You're probing for answers--what's your real motive?"

Marc turned away. "We don't need to be adversaries since we both want the same thing."

She stood, visibly angered. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Moving toward the door, Marc stared back at her. "Michelle will return to Saint Anthony's and end this rebellion, so save yourself and the coven the embarrassment--honor your oath."

Raina groaned. "Michelle will act of her own free will. Your logic is flawed, as always."

He chuckled. "You've always been defiant and that will be your downfall."

"Meaning?"

Marc stepped closer. "Samantha and Sabrina will ascend and reunite. Then it's only a matter of time before Katherine returns."

She stared at him intently. "If that's true, they'll strengthen the coven in preparation for war."

Marc backed away. "So that's the reason for the bonding ritual--you want the coven's blood in your veins for protection."

Raina moved closer. "Even with his ambition, Paul will fail. His treachery will earn him suffering at Harold's hands."

"How do you know about the legacy?" he demanded. "No matter. Before you surrender, be certain--there might be more to discover."

"Of that, I'm certain," she insisted. "We all have a destiny and I accepted mine long ago."

Marc smiled as he headed for the exit. "We both know how protective you are of Sabrina." He turned and stared. "So it didn't surprise me to discover what happened to Trina and Jasmine."

Afterward, Raina retreated to the balcony, knowing she couldn't conceal the truth forever.