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He nodded, looking quite pleased at my response. “Well, in regard to the electricity issue, I was told through a vision that all forms of power and technology were capable of corrupting the feminine body and soul.”

Oh, for fuck’s sake…

I kept feigning interest in his words. “How so?”

“With access to electrical appliances, a lot of time is freed up for women when it comes to their feminine duties. For example, instead of washing dishes and clothes by hand, they could just dump it all in a machine which does it for them. Free time is not good for women, given their mental weakness. It leads them into temptation and sin, which as you know has always originated in females.”

“Of course.” I nodded sagely, wondering if Jacob actually believed his own bullshit, or if it was all made up with the intention of gaining control over women.

“It is better that we keep them away from such devices, so they aren’t tempted to stray,” he added. “When we do that, we are actually helping the women.”

“I have to say, I respect that a great deal,” I said, pasting on a smile. “So many people are afraid to say things like that out loud in today’s world. But it’s all true.”

“Yes, quite.”

“You don’t need to worry, Mr. Chastain. I won’t tell anyone else what I’ve seen here. I understand how most of the ignorant, overly-liberal people in our society would perceive it.”

His shoulders drooped slightly, presumably with relief. “Thank you, Mason. I really appreciate it. And listen, if you ever need a favor, I’d be happy to help you out.”

I hesitated for a moment. “Actually, there is something you could do for me in return, if you felt like being generous.”

His brows knitted with curiosity. “What? More land for your nature reserve?”

I leaned forward, a guileful smile dancing on my lips. “No, Mr. Chastain. Tell me more about the Path of the Covenant and what it takes for a new member to join…”

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