The Dark Society

105

Paul had occupied the chapel for weeks, preparing for Raina's arrival. However, despite his earlier concerns, Saint Anthony's was fortified once again. Meanwhile, he had worked tirelessly to master Harold's methods, and though he had made changes, Paul still followed the original transcripts. On another note, the sovereign's depictions were precise, outlining an intricate but manageable plan.

Paul had both employed and undermined these directives--a secret the coven now recognized despite their youth and inexperience. Yet, even with Sabrina and Samantha's return, the sect remained divided.

Despite the uncertainty, Paul maintained his optimism, though he was bound by human limitations, no matter how much he denied it.

Even still, he had tarnished Harold Morgan's legacy, and an unmistakable aura now enveloped the sanctum. Paul had never experienced absolute fear before, but now he felt overwhelmed for the first time.

The sovereign closed his eyes and focused, though distinguishing between illusion and reality proved challenging. Shutters rattled and cast iron handles shook as he settled against a nearby pew. Strange phenomena were common here, but this radiance of power felt dominant.

He returned to the altar and positioned himself behind the podium, where Harold Morgan's final recorded entries lay with their explicit directives and clear intentions. But as Paul reached for the works, the thick leather covers slammed shut.

The cathedral stood desolate, but Paul remained vigilant, determined to protect what was his. He had modified Saint Anthony's over the years as needed, yet it retained its original mystique. His senses heightened as doors and windows closed in unison, and an imposing but familiar figure emerged.

Harold Morgan was alive, and for a moment, Paul marveled at this reality. However, silence filled the space between them as Harold stood expressionless and wordless. After all, Saint Anthony's was his creation, and the doctrines were his passion.

Harold focused on Paul's transgressions and his followers' continued resentment--undeniable indiscretions that mirrored each other with perfect clarity.

The sovereign appeared enraged as he collected his ledgers under Paul's defiant stare. Harold intended to purify the sect and fortify Saint Anthony's--plans Paul and Leon had already devised for the Lady of Victories.

Still, there were rules governing witchcraft, but Harold's return signaled the end of the spiritual order. Ergo, Paul's alterations and escalating paranoia would not go unpunished.

Harold also aimed to correct the indisputable changes to the doctrines. Because, after his visit to Saint Ann's, the sovereign knew the truth about everything.

Now, Paul had retained the church's virtues but had also compromised its existence--one of many deceptions Harold would not ignore.