Clensed with fire
Samuel's replacement goes by the name of Theodore. He is a shy, reserved boy. Rarely speaking, preffering solitude to large crowds. One memorable thing about the teenage boy however is that he is a great jokester. Always finding a reason to make others laugh. Even in the darkest of times. It is a bright sunday morning, the children had all gathered round to listen to mother preach about witches and witchcraft. All of them are bored though. So naturally Theodore finds a way to make the dull sermon more entertaining. Him and a group of teenage adoptees whisper in hushed tones, huddled close together, but careful so ma doesn't notice their little rebelion. Suddenly one of the boys says something to Theodore and he bursts out laughing. The whole place goes eerily quiet. All eyes pinned on Theodore. A red blush creeps over his cheeks as he looks to the floor. Suddenly very fond of the dust gathered there.
" How dare you mock the Lord " Mary Lou cries, pointing an accusatory finger at him. Theodore obviously tries to defend himself.
" No ma, I wasn't I swear " but Mary Lou pays him no mind as she continues speaking in that same, haunting tone.
"Your hands are unworthy of prayer. They must be cleansed by fire."
Everyone goes perfectly still and just stares. Stares as ma brings out a lighter, and beckons for Theodore to come closer to her. He does, head bowed, the smile that had crossed his lips just minutes ago, wiped away, replaced by dread and fear.
" Hold out your hands" ma commands. Theodore obeys not daring to move an inch even as flame licks at his fingers, burning his skin. Leaving behind but raw, angry stripes.
The punishment scarrs the boy deeply. Now Theodore is unable to pray with his hands clasped, and when ma forces him to do so he becomes a nervous wreck, shaky and snivelling. His fingers tremble when he brings them together and tears well up his eyes. He feels guilty and fearful for speaking to God, as if his prayers are cursed.