The Dark Society

105

Paul had occupied the chapel for some time preparing for Raina's incursion. But regardless of his prior concerns Saint Anthony's was again fortified. Up to now, he'd worked to master Harold's methods and though altered Paul was still mandating the original transcripts. Be that as it may, the sovereign's notes were precise and outlined an intricate, but manageable narrative.

Directives Paul had employed but also undermined. (a once secluded secret that the coven now recognized heedless of their youth and inexperience). However, even with Sabrina and Samantha's respective resumptions the sect was divided.

Despite this, Paul's outlook stayed optimistic regardless of the uncertainty. Apart from that, he was bound by humanity's limitations and no matter how much he denied it Paul was one of them.

Generally speaking, he'd tarnished Harold Morgan's legacy and due to this an unmistakable aura had enveloped the sanctum. Never before had Paul experienced absolute fear, but for the first time he felt overwhelmed.

As this took place, the sovereign closed his eyes and focused, though distinguishing between illusion and reality was challenging. From then on, inset shutters rattled and cast iron handles shook while he settled against a near pew. Strange phenomena weren't unusual normally, but this radiance of strength felt dominant.

For this reason, he returned to the altar and nestled behind the podium. It was there that the last recorded entries of Sovereign Morgan lay prominent with explicit directives and clear intentions. But, as Paul attempted to retrieve the works the thick leather covers abruptly closed.

The cathedral shone desolate in the wake, but Paul stayed vigilant while he strived to protect his asset. He'd modified Saint Anthony's over the years as necessary, but regardless, it'd retained an original mystique. Meanwhile, Paul's senses heightened as en masse doors and windows closed and an imposing, but familiar figure emerged.

Harold Morgan was alive and for the moment Paul marveled at the reality. Stillness echoed sentiment by this time since Harold bared no expression nor words. For Saint Anthony's was his creation and the doctrines were his passion.

Barring this in mind, Harold focused on Paul's transgressions and the continued resentment of his followers. Undeniable indiscretions that mirrored each other with perfect clarity.

Similarly, the sovereign seemed enraged while he collected his ledgers amid Paul's defiant stares. In the end, Harold meant to purify the sect and fortify Saint Anthony's. Plans Paul and Leon had already devised and perfected for the Lady of Victories.

Nevertheless, there were rules governing witchcraft, but Harold's return now constituted the end of the spiritual order. This suggests that Paul's variances or his escalating paranoia wouldn't go unpunished.

Let alone the indisputable alterations to the doctrines for which Harold aimed to also amend. Otherwise, with his previous visit to Saint Ann's the sovereign knew the truth about everything.

In summation, Paul had retained the virtues of the church but had also compromised its existence. One of the many degrees of deceit Harold wasn't eager to ignore.