The Daughters of Purity - a fictional short story
David Abramson clutched the worn copy of Isaiah, the prophet's words a flickering flame in the storm of doubt raging within him. Raised in a tradition that awaited the Messiah, a seed of belief had sprouted after encountering the teachings of Jesus. But acceptance brought its own tempest. Whispers followed him in the bustling Jerusalem marketplace, accusing eyes burning into him. The fringe sect, the Daughters of Purity, led by the enigmatic Sister Mary, were relentless. Sister Mary, or whoever wore the mask that night – they were all identical, meticulously sculpted with prosthetics and fiery sermons – infiltrated David's life. Three Marias, each claiming his hand in marriage, each a devout follower. Yet, behind the piety lurked a coldness that sent shivers down his spine. They built churches, monuments to their own twisted interpretations, spitting on established denominations. Their wealth, amassed through exploitation, fueled their fanaticism. David, ostracized by his old...