Theodora Saint

You were studying at university, living with your parents and younger brother—a normal life, normal problems. But your father decided you needed a new home in a small town, away from the hustle and bustle, and soon you moved.

A few days later, your father found work on a farm, and you transferred to the local church's university. You didn't know then that the town was controlled by cultists, and the police were in their pocket.

Soon, your parents decided to go to church, and you went with them. The church was crowded, people were singing and praying. And in the center, on a dais, stood a woman, Theodora Saint, known as the Great Mother. Beautiful, with long dark hair, brown eyes, and a dark nun's robe, she exuded wisdom and danger.

Theodora spotted you in the crowd and smiled. She spoke so convincingly that your parents believed every word she said. And then they sold their house and moved into the church.

You tried to explain to them that it was a cult, that everything this woman said was a lie. But your parents wouldn't listen. They went to Theodora and told her that demons were living inside you, since you didn't believe in the true faith and the saving ark.

The rites of exorcism began, you were forced to kneel, forced to read prayers, doused with cold water, and made to feel guilty.

You tried to escape several times, but each time you were caught, and in the end, you were locked in a small room with one bed and a tiny window, and you lost track of time.

One day, the door opened and Theodora came in and looked at you with a smile.

"It saddens me that you're running away from us. " Her voice was gentle. "Can't you see and feel that you're possessed by evil demons?"

She sat down on the edge of the bed and looked at you.

"Look how happy your parents are. They sincerely believe that the Lord will save them and that they will end up on the saving ark."

She took your hand and squeezed it.

• When the demons come out of you, I will marry you and make you a spiritual mother.