Disclaimer: not mine
Summary: What if the flowers fake memories weren't entirely fake? Or a caring Zero living with her sisters before learning the truth of the flower. OOcness
Untitled AU
With each drop of blood that drip out of the Zero's wounds the air felt colder. She could no longer feel the frayed rope against her raw wrist. With an exhale her head dropped to the chest too tired to hold it up any longer. Her broken bleeding body was tied to a wooden cross embedded in the earth. The burnt dirt below her was completely spotted with dark marks. While the wooden post was surrounded by soil the rest of the arena type was made from stone. It was there to look nice for the public executions that took place.
Her figure jerked forward as part of the rope snapped and her knees hit the beginning of the stone below. She barely felt the pain or heard the sounds of the impact. The mad woman chuckled as an unimportant thought about how a bruise would form. Blood splattered further out landing on the clean rocks.
In death Zero felt spiteful, maybe even more so then in life. The fair haired woman at least wanted to make it more of a job to whoever has to clean up her remains. Though seeing her body fluids on the ground would make many people cheer. The prisoner extended her free arm and touched the polished cobblestone spreading her blood around like finger paint. One of her digits ran around the edge of the rock watching the liquid drip between the crevices.
That will never come out. A part of me will always remain here. Have fun cleaning up the blood. She thought weakly a wheeze like laugh escaping her throat.
Do you want to die? A voice spoke deep within her mind. It was a breathy wisp that was neither male nor female. It didn't speak in a language she knew but she was somehow able to understand it. Or maybe it was all in her head.
What kinda question is that?
Do you want revenge?
Revenge is meaningless.
Are you lonely?
Loneliness won't betray me.
Neither will I.
Ridiculous. Stop talking to me and let me die in peace already. The voice completely stopped and the badly broken woman was finally surrounded in silence. She drifted away unaware of the root emerging from a fissure and piercing itself into a wound of hers.
It didn't make sense. Death should have welcomed her with a sweet embrace. Still here she was opening her ruby eyes to the world. Her silence was ripped from her fingers. Apparently death didn't want her. The first feeling that hit her wasn't the pain from being tortured for hours on end but hunger. Her empty stomach let out a cry of dismay. Her eyes focused on the immediate surrounding area. Beneath her body was a soft patch of grass between bushes that provided her some cover from view. It allowed her a calm moment to collect her thoughts.
Sitting up she gaze upon her magically healed body. She was on death's door not too long ago what had happened? Or maybe she was out cold for a while? But that would probably raise even more questions. She pressed her hand to her chest feeling the strong beat of her heart in her ribcage. Something she had noticed was that she was no longer in the arena but outside the city. Who saved her and brought her here? Why would anyone save a wretched life like hers?
It probably wouldn't be long before the guards caught onto her trail. It was time to procure some weapons and get the hell out of here. She was right out by the city's walls. Close by where she was uncomfortable and yet too close to where the search team wouldn't think of looking too deeply at.
Wanted posters of her face where probably still posted on every building. The runaway didn't have anything to cover her face putting her at a disadvantage. It would be in her best interest to live in a different land.
Without any type of physical problem Zero was able to rise to her feet and stand strong. Another gurgle of her stomach sounded off. All other questions and thoughts could wait. Commencing the search for food was her top priority now. Attacking someone was out of the question since she was weaponless. That also meant no hunting. There was no way she would have the strength or energy to kill with her bare hands right now. Her only choice at the moment was berries and fruit she could scrummage.
Why did they have to take her blade? They could've tied her up with it still in her holster. A small creature –a squirrel or something- ran past the corner of her sight making her sigh. That would've been a delicious meal. The convict settled on raw berries and mushroom she found around trees for sustenance. They were probably not poisons or anything.
Well she certainly wasn't going to stay and see if her savior would show themselves. It was time to move and seek shelter in the next land. Hopefully no one outside the city knew her name or face but that was rather unlikely. The trip would be dangerous and hunting would be impossible without weapons. What makeshift armaments could she make on the go?
Avoiding the main road she was able to sneak by any bandits. Monsters and wild life on the other hand were actually easier to get around then humans. She had no complications making it to the borderline of the Land of Forests. That's when she saw him. Or rather the supplies he carried. Clenching her fists she knew what she would have to do no matter the risks. Physically he didn't look too strong; nothing she hadn't targeted before. After gathering a thick vine all she could do now was wait for the best moment; when the man dropped his guard to rest.
About an hour later the male finally started to catnap it was time to make a move. Her wine-colored eyes narrowed in determination as she leapt towards him vine in hand. She kicked the knife by his side away from his reach wrapping the plant wrapped around his neck. She snapped the vine making it constricted around his throat. Wide awake he frantically kicked at the ground and tried to reach for her. When he couldn't get a good grasp on her he tried pulling the vine away from his neck. Every passing second the man got weaker till finally it was over minutes later. Knowing it was over she let the corpse fall to the grass.
She rushed over to the large camping bag hoping there was something in there that was actually worth it. A smile broke out on her face. The victim had jerky, some dried fruits and different types of grains on him! Yes, she could live with this for a few days. After pocketing the knife she shoved a piece of jerky into her mouth. It was even spiced a little.
She turned to look at the body. Normally she wouldn't do anything and would leave it for someone else to deal with. However, she was going to stay here for a while and didn't want anything being traced to her. She also didn't want monsters or animals on her either. Proper burial was too much trouble. Maybe there was a cliff or a swamp nearby?
Hooking the bag around her shoulders she traveled to find some suitable land to camp. She settled for a small piece of flat land on a cliff side near a waterfall. The long haired woman had created a temporary cloth canopy shelter in the thick forest. It was close enough to the main road that it was easy to ambush any one traveling by trying to reach the Cathedral City or the Land of Sands. Best of all it was also close enough to human travels so she didn't have to deal with the rude talkative fairies.
After settling down she heard a wisp of a familiar voice late at night as she lied on the ground.
Is there anything that you want?
No, if I have food then I'm fine. It's best I don't have more than that.
Do you want a peaceful life?
I can't imagine such a thing. Murders like me aren't allowed peace.
Do you want a family?
No.
They will never betray you. Just nurture them.
…
It will be fine. I promise.
If you say so. The voice didn't speak up again and Zero merely closed her eyes and drifted off for the night.
Zero's body felt heavy, and surprisingly warm from the neck down. It was a contradictory to how her face felt a cool breeze. She tried to move her arms to her face and cover her cold skin to realize she couldn't. Panic hit as she recognized that her arms and legs felt resistance to any type of movement. Was she captured and bound yet again?!
Crimson eyes popped opened to see the top part of someone's blonde hair in front of her face. Her eyes narrowed at this blonde stranger resting their head on her chest. The blonde wasn't the only stranger either. Even on the other side of the child was another blonde -her hair longer- was using her arm as a pillow. On Zero's other side was a brunette embracing her arm in her sleep. Three kids up high and two more resting below her waist.
In the fetal position between her legs snoozed another youngster. She used Zero's lower belly as a pillow and her long hair tickled her bare skin of her abdomen and thighs. Last, was a kid lying horizontally on top of her legs. The short haired girl had used one leg to support her neck while the other leg was comfortable beneath her knees. If the purple haired one extended her legs she would kick the short haired one. Literally Zero was covered for head to toe in children.
Who the fuck are these brats?! Where did they come from?!
Unconsciously her torso jerked a little at the shock of her personal space being invaded like this. Intimacy like this wasn't welcomed her whole body tensed up. It remaindered her of the nights at the brothel. The workers there had to share rooms and beds. A light grunt from her left side caused the petite blonde to awaken. She rubbed her eyes with a yawn then turned to see who was awake. Deep scarlet eyes gazed intently into matching scarlet orbs. They were a complete copy of her own irises and it made her freeze up. Zero wanted to glare at the brat but felt herself unexpectedly unable too.
Then it hit her suddenly like she had always known. This is One. This is your sister.
"Uh, sorry." One muttered as if sensing the fact Zero was uncomfortable and moved away with a light blush. The little child also seemed just as uncomfortable to be caught nuzzled up against her. One scrambled to get up accidentally jostling and awaking the girl beside her. A single green eye opened in respond the gentle jolt.
This is Five.
"Morning." Five greeted rolling over on her stomach to stretch her back out like a cat would. With one arm finally free the criminal shook it to start the circulation again. After a few seconds she dislodged the brunette from her right limb. Little hands reached out in her direction blindly groping around. Like a child who misplaced their stuffed animal in the middle of the night she awoke with a frown.
This is Four.
The two at her feet didn't awake up. The aggravation must have shown on her face as the long amber haired girl gave both their shoulders a shake. The purple haired one grunted and buried her face further into her torso refusing to move. "Good morning, everyone." The peppy girl greeted with a loud voice and friendly smile.
This is Two.
Two stood and reached for the sky in a stretch before immediately wrapping her arms around the sleepy one. Lavender eyes opened when she felt her body being pulled away from her comfy position. She didn't fight being in Two's arms and accepted that she was being manhandled. Even though she was placed on a soft patch of moss to continue her slumber Three sat up with a frown. Now she was fully awake at this point anyway.
This is Three.
They are my little sisters. Her mind answered swiftly like she had recognized them from the start. They were always together. Together? What? But where did they come from? They weren't around when she was sold to the whore house or stealing food to live. Her mind suddenly felt fuzzy.
The older girl felt her attire being tugged on. The Goldilocks looking one looked up at her with a slightly guilty look. "I'm hungry."
I can barely take care of myself let alone five extra brats! Was I really supporting them before? The more she thought about it the harder it got. "I guess I'll hunt for something." It came as a shock how easily those words came out of her mouth. Zero wasn't the type to care for others. She was always alone. Why was she listening to the wants and needs of the little ones here?
I was alone… Why do I have sisters now…? Right?
"I'll help!" Two raised her hand and volunteer. One lightly smiled and nodded willing to come along. Like little ducklings the others followed, even the slothful Three. Would this increase their chances of getting prey or ruin them?
The group would need either one large prey or a couple of small ones. One large pray would probably yield a more successful hunt. One climbed a tree in order to scan the region. She had the best senses out of everyone. Her eyes brighten at she caught sight of a buck. From her perch she gestured and gave orders to surround and ambush the animal.
Zero waited behind the others as backup. The plan was for Four and Five to herd the creature towards Two to be pinned down. Three would deliver the death blow but if Two failed to catch the animal. One and Zero were the backups.
A bush rustled and the deer's head shot up. Without confirmation of an enemy the deer took off in the direction of the strongest sibling. Part one complete. The buck -noticing the tiny girl standing in the way- decided to charge at her rather than change direction. A huge grin spread over Two's face as she stood ready to take it head on. Her position was sturdy and ready for the momentum. She grabbed on to the buck's antlers only taking a single step backwards to take a hold of the situation. The charging animal was halted in his tracts instantaneously; as if he crashed into a wall. The deer was unable to free himself from her clutches no matter how much he thrashed around. "Three."
The slouched over girl languidly walked up. "Be careful of his hind legs, he's a kicker." The older sister warned as the creature took noticed of Three. She hummed in acknowledgement. Precisely she dragged the outward bladed scissors across the buck's neck, successfully severing the carotid artery. Two could have easily taken out the creature on her own strength. But why ruin the bones or meat by slamming it against the ground or a builder? A harsh murder would cause the muscle to tense up and become tough.
One grinned. "Mission accomplished." The sibling regrouped and headed back with Two carrying the whole animal over her head. Two and Three were the ones to prepare the animal. Zero couldn't help but notice the look of interest on her third sister as she dissected the deer with perfect precision.
"How should I prepare it?"
"In stew!"
"Sear it!"
"Sautéed or maybe roasted!"
"How about smoking it?"
The merry girl laughed as her sisters fought. One had returned with firewood while the meat was being butchered. "Well, what do we have for pans?" The short amber haired girl asked; it was more rhetorically though. Zero didn't have pots or pans. If she had meat she threw it on the fire and ate it off a stick since it was the only thing she could do. She wasn't living in luxury after all. Without another word from any of them Two skewered the meat and embedded them in the ground near the fire.
The murderer sat off to the side watching the happy little scene with an unsure stare. Whenever she tried to think about here her siblings came from her head suddenly would fog up. There was something wrong about this and she wasn't sure what. She sighed when One sat next to her. The criminal didn't tell the adolescent to leave but maybe she should have. "Something wrong, sister?"
"Why are you guys here?" The felonious asked bluntly.
"What? But we've always been here. You've always taken care of us."
Then why was I always feeling so lonely?
The taller girl didn't hide her thoughtful facial expressions. One looked a little confused but remained silent. The small girl averted her gaze if Zero wanted to talk to her she would. Not another word was spoken between them.
Later Two made Oatmeal with honey for lunch and Sweet and Sour Ogre Meatballs for dinner. Last but not least desert was a Raspberry cake. Not one person questioned where she got the ingredients from. Even if they were curious with just one bite of the sweet cake no one cared.
The vulgar woman quickly picked up on perks her siblings had. Three liked lap pillows and making taxidermy stuffed animals for her sisters –though Four was the only one who appreciated the cute stuffed rabbit. Though at night, she still would rather cling to Zero then the rabbit –fittingly named Hoppy. While Zero dubbed it "Was Once Hoppy."
One really liked teaching others. When someone approached her with a question she answered it going far beyond with a detailed explanation that was more a lecture. They quickly learned to take their questions elsewhere –generally to Zero, much to her dismay. Half of them she couldn't even answer if she wanted too.
Five was really laid back; she didn't care if Four insulted her she never took it personally. If insults were the only way Four would talk to her she would take it happily and egg her on further.
They were each able to make items they needed for survival. They all made bowls and pots to eat and cook with out of clay. Soon the makeshift canopy turned into a hut. It was a real hut that could protect them from the dangers of the weather. One made a blueprint the works with the land and not against it. No need to tear down trees or worry about the lack of flat space on the ground. They made sure Two had a working kitchen stocked with spices and herbs to use.
For a girl who had zero before; things were finally picking up. In the end the oldest sibling didn't care where her sisters came from. A part of her brain stopped trying to question it and was content for the company.
Are you happy?
The white haired woman stayed quiet but smiled to herself. As much as she hated to admit it the time the six spent together wasn't horrible. The fair haired woman found herself caring about their well-being. No matter how odd it was for her to trust after being betrayed repeatedly. She quickly became accustom and welcomed to their presences.
The days went by in generally the same way. Hunting, improving the house, fighting, and playing around. Each child was fully capable catching any type of prey on their own but preferred the group dynamics they had. It was mundane but not at all a bad life. Not that a single one of her siblings could be considered ordinary. It was a dream that Zero had thought she would never get and gave up on before her arrest. Still her hate for others outside the family was still there. It was the only thing keeping her grounded to who she was before. The criminal couldn't let go completely.
Everyone else was already asleep. They each had their own little sleeping area with a handmade cot; but desired to huddle together at night. Two sowed the large tarp together and filled it with leaves and other soft materials and made it into a large mattress. The eldest sister did protest to this claiming it was too clingy. She was quickly out voted and ignored. Hopefully this is just a phase and they will all get some independence soon.
For some reason Zero always ended up in the middle and One was always the furthest away from the group. The shortest girl was always trying to take on the role as watcher –always trying to be independent. At least she was the furthest away at the start of the night. On most days Zero would awaken to find that One had worked her way in between herself and Five. While it didn't bother anyone One hated to be crowded. Unexpected touches, loud noises, strong scents and even bright colors made her flinch away. So why was One subconsciously trying to find her every night?
Unable to doze off Zero thought she would catch her in the act. With her red eyes close One crawled over. Zero was sure she was still asleep as she plopped down wedging herself between them. Five not really disturbed in the least snuggled up against amber haired girl. She shouldn't be so used to the little hands that liked to grab on to her garments. Softly she brushed the golden strands out of her face revealing a better view of the Roman numeral on her forehead. Her nose twitched but she stayed asleep. Why did they have such a thing? It was too perfect to be considered a normal birthmark. In fact is looked more like it was branded into her skin the way it scared up.
Like her, they didn't have real names either. Was it just easier to remember numbers then to have actual names? Much like her.
Her fingers tips brushed up against her forehead feeling the smooth skin. She didn't have a mark there after all. "Zero" didn't exist in Roman numeral. However, now she at least had them.
"Why don't we live where there are more people?" It was an innocent enough question asked. As much as Zero hated it there were times her sisters went into the city for supplies. Letting such small children go on their own bother her –even if they were strong. It wasn't odd to see children out shopping by themselves. None of the vendors ever questioned them, not as long as they got paid. But the fear someone would try to kidnap them for profit was possible. The girls looked like they were at that age where most men would take a questionable interest in them.
None of them questioned where what little money came from. They didn't seem to care. But if you thought hard about it, it was pretty obvious. Zero had significantly cut back on attacking people who were traveling by. How could she with a small party of innocent souls following her. It was hard to get away from them to have enough time to do so. However, that didn't mean they weren't somewhat aware of her situation. Oddly enough she felt an increase of blood-lust without a sliver of guilt. Was it just because she was caring for the children and used them for justification or something else entirely?
"Why? Because I'm a criminal." She responded with a nonchalant tone and an uncaring shrug. Hadn't they known? It made the others pause, a weird silence overcame them. Zero was grateful they didn't ask for the details. In fact it was shoved off without another thought. Anything that could be considered uncomfortable for Zero was just ignored.
"This country really needs better ways to deal with problems. Last trip there I saw more orphans in the streets." Two expressed.
"A lot of their civilians could use attitude adjustments." Four snorted cleaning the clay dishes they made to eat off of. "We moved out here to get away from the people." She held it up making sure any particles of grime was gone before grabbing another dish. The tawny haired girl looked rather annoyed muttering under her breathe. "Damn bullies."
"Bullies?" One had narrowed her eyes and cocked her head to the side. She was the only one to hear Four's murmuring voice. The second eldest was always so careful when it came to watching over them when they were in the city. Why did her little sister fall victim to tormentors? Actually when did they move? One could have sworn they always lived in the forest. What did the hazel haired girl remember that she didn't?
The vulgar woman picked up on the confusion on her face. It was possible that she could be bullied while in the city. Zero who stayed far away would never know. However, One didn't seem to know what the chestnut haired girl was talking about either. How could they not know of someone bullying their little sister?
"We should do something about it."
"As if!" The siblings laughed allowing the banter to change to something much lighter.
"But that would be nice, to be able to change the world and help others." One whispered looking at her reflection in a drying bowl. "Too change everything for the better."
"Will you guys go to sleep already?" Zero growled. One, Three and Four were already settled into bed waiting for sleep to touch them. It was Two and Five having a full blown discussion in the night.
Sing to them.
I don't sing.
"Sorry, I'm not really tied yet." The blue haired kid smiled with a guilty expression. "I'll try and keep it down though."
Unlikely, she was a loud person.
"What's wrong with staying up a little late sometimes?" The flaxen haired maiden declared. It's not like anyone had to be up in the morning. They turned back to each other to continue their conversation.
With a sigh Zero resigned herself to fate. Alright I guess I'll sing.
"Will you come to bed and try to sleep if I sing?" This got everyone's abrupt attention. The talkative pair fell silent in shock. Quickly they all gathered around with enraptured attention. Even the three that were already tucked in got up to be closer in the best hearing position. This was far too tempting to pass up.
Three cuddled closer resting her head on her lap. The fair haired woman responded by stroking her hair. Even One didn't hide how bright her eyes were; they were glued on her older sister as she made her way over.
"You don't even tell us bedtime stories."
"You've never sang to us before."
There was a reason for that. While working for the horrid place she learned to sing. It was just another service offered to entertain men. The songs taught to the girls were explicit in nature; since they were supposed to seduce clients like a siren's call. For her sisters she might have to make up words and keep a tune purely phonetically. She inhaled and sang her first note.
The vulgar woman's voice came out in a dolce tune. She didn't remember her voice ever sounding like this. It was much more mature and powerful sounding. Did her voice box suddenly developed since her prostitution days?
Her song surrounded them giving the children a feeling of safety and relaxation. Matching ruby eyes closed a strong urge or perhaps an instinct to sing with her sibling overcame One. She bit down on her lip in an effort not to interrupt. Maybe she'll ask to perform a duet another day.
Two and Five who said they weren't tired where the first two out cold, only lasting to the start of the fourth verse. They were swaying back and forth with the melody before eventually falling over with a light snore. The third one out was Four; who was humming along perfectly to a song she never heard before.
It seemed like One and Three were the ones that wanted her singing to last. Once the lavender haired sister was asleep One helped move her into a more convenient position. She moved the other two that were curled up at the foot of the bed. The minute the smallest sister was done tucking the others in she settled down and was out in seconds.
The singer stopped and glanced over all her slumbering kin and picked up on something. They acted weirdly mesmerized while she was singing. They were never asleep this quickly either. Even the sluggish Three never feel asleep that quickly before. Maybe she would have to sing to them more often.
Well whatever, it was a small price to pay to sleep. On one side of her Three slept cuddled into her side. One was spooned against Three's back burying her face in soft lilac hair. On her other side was Five, Two and Four on the very end of the bed. Zero fell back as her body relaxed the second her head hit the pillow. The girl was already tried to begin with but now she felt a strain like she had done some sort of rigorous exercise.
During her sleep Zero felt like she was being crushed and her face being smothered. It forced her eyes opened. Long amber hair –Five?- was completely on top of her sleeping peacefully. Their legs were entwined and Goldilocks held forced her head against her abnormally large bust.
What was going on?! This certainly wasn't the girl –who looked no older than an eight year old yesterday- the same one who went to bed with her last night, right? She tried to pull away and look at the others. An older woman who looked like Four was next to her. Two and Three also suddenly looked much older. One wasn't around but that didn't send off an alarm of concern.
What kinda growth spurt is this!?
The convicted felon shoved Five off awakening her in the process. Without feeling any amount of displeasure at being pushed; Five greeted her like normal. "Good morning, sister." Did she not notice anything wrong with her body?
"…Morning."
Four sat up rubbing the sleep from her eyes. The chestnut haired woman smiled sweetly at her older sister while grimacing at the youngest. "Your breasts grew again." She sounded completely repulsed turning her head for emphases.
Her breasts? Her whole body freaken grew! Not just her breasts! Zero knitted her brows together. You grew too, Four! Have they not realized this wasn't normal?! What happened? Did her singing do this to them? How? Glancing down at herself didn't reveal anything different about her body. She felt exactly the same.
"Jealous? You can touch them if you want."
"As if!" Zero watched with disinterest as another cat-fight between the two youngest started. "If I wanted to touch someone's breasts I would pick Sister Zero's, not yours."
The youngest opened her mouth to reply but closed it. After a second to gather her reply the blonde happily agreed. "Yeah, I agree; I also want to touch them."
"Not happening. Going to find One." Without listening to the over exaggerated sounds of disappointment Zero stepped over the two still sleeping girls to get to the door.
She didn't have any particular destination in mind. In fact she wasn't really going to go looking for One. The eldest just wanted to get away from the others. It was unsettling how they grew. It wasn't human. What are her sisters?
After a few minutes of mindless walking she spotted One leaning against a tree. She gazed appallingly at a stick in her hand. "One? What are you doing?" The short girl stiffened slightly realizing someone was nearby. Was she that deep in thought she didn't notice her approaching? It wasn't like Zero was trying to be sneaky or anything.
"Nothing!" She tossed the stick away and averted her matching eyes away. What did the taller girl just walk into exactly…? Zero could've laughed at the slightly uncharacteristic bashfulness though. A brief thought of stepping up and telling her that it was alright entered her mind. However as soon as if entered it was immediately tossed out. It really wasn't any of her business. Still, she should say something to break the silence right?
"Ready to go back home?"
"Yeah."
When they returned Two and Three were up and about. Three was cutting her hair in the corner with a calm smile on her face. Four was filing her nails down looking annoyed at having to do the action. Two was stirring something red in a pot over a fire. Five was trying to loosen her shirt without destroying it completely.
"I made Noodles in a Tomato Sauce for breakfast!" They gathered around and ate quietly. It was never this quiet when they were all together. It wasn't like there was a huge fight between any of them. Why was today different? Did they just not want to bring it up? Maybe they really didn't see this as strange? On an off note the youngest was the tallest out of them. The second oldest was the shortest.
One glanced around at the sibling deciding to voice a concern. "Does anyone feel different today?" They all turned to look at her. Yet no one confirmed or denied her worries. She took a small bite of her meal flinching when the sauce hit her taste buds. The spice while wasn't a strong herb still managed to hit her in the taste buds. Two noticed and sent her a sad smile in apology. From now on a bland portion of whatever she makes will be put aside for her. One could only stare at her food sadly.
"Well, I suppose I did awake with a certain ache between my legs but I think that's pretty normal for maturing women."
"Revolting." The brunette murmured. Such conversations should be in private and most certainly not over food.
One glanced around then at the ground not bothering trying to continue. Quietly she put another spoon full into her mouth regardless of the spice.
The seedlings are growing. The seedlings will breed soon enough.
Seedlings? Breed? More like weeds if anything.
Still something in Zero made her blood run cold. She never question were the voice in her head came from. Since prior she had chalked it up to loneliness mixed in with a little insanity. Nevertheless, now it was starting to nag her. Maybe she should start to care about it. It only spoke about her sisters and in an all knowing manner. Something was wrong.
"Are you guys heading out now?" The felon handed over a small coin purse to the oldest blonde.
"Just waiting on Three to get ready." One pocketed the money safely in her clothes. Seconds later the sibling with lavender locks joined the group. "Alright, we're off now."
"Careful out there." Zero watched them disappear from view. A smirk formed over her face; she at least had a few hours of peace to herself. With a jump to her step she headed back inside.
The girls had taken off in a fast sprint. They always made it into a race to see who could reach the city first. One and Two were always in the lead they were the most athletic of the group. Four did a decent job of keep up with them but was never able to pass them. Three and Five were always last but never lagged behind the others. Though, part of that was because of a lack of motivation to win a race.
"What's the first stop?" The joyful sister asked eager to head towards the lady who sold freshly baked breads.
"We're not buying pasties." Two was instantly shut down. Of course she knew that was coming. They made their own breads but it was nice to taste someone else's food for once. They only bought what they couldn't grow or hunt themselves. While One was lightly telling-off Two the others split up to explore.
"Hey there, princess. How about having some fun with us?"
Turning her attention from the jewelry stand in front; Five turned around to see two men approach her. "Are you talking to me?"
"Of course; we'll treat you right." They stepped forward.
"She's not interested." Four appeared out of nowhere stepping up beside her sister, protectively she held out an arm. The men did stop there advances to share a glance at each other. Would they proceed with this unsavory attempt at picking up girls?
"Um, I kinda am…" Four shot her a quick scowl before turning back to the men. Displeasure stamped across her face.
"We're accommodating. Would you like to join in on out fun?"
"Get lost, I won't say it again." The russet haired girl hardened her glare; it couldn't get more threatening. It didn't work and they took a step closer clearly not intimidated by her.
"That's a shame I'm sure we could make you sing in pleasure if you just loosen up."
Five instantly frowned; she didn't like how Four had tensed up and took a step back in response to them. Where did her confidence suddenly go? Five knitted her eyebrows in a glare stepping up to defend her. "Sing? Sounds fun, don't mind if I do." The amber haired woman took a deep breath and let out a single note.
She wanted to duplicate her sister's lovely song. Her voice reverberated getting the attention of more than just the people in the surrounding area but probably for many blocks. Four tensed up and groaned as the song resonated within her chest. It was different from how Zero sounded. Zero's song was tranquil and nice. Five's song was painfully raw and perplexing. She stuttered to the side unable to stand correctly. The longer Five held the note the more unbearable it got. If it could compare to anything the siren's song morphed into a scream of a banshee.
Three's movements came to a sudden halt. The cat that was ahead of her took off at the familiar sound. The hairs on her nape stood on end a devious smile spread across her face. "Interesting." Her fingers tips glazed over her favorite scissors caressing the handles. "That way."
One gasped and clutched at her chest. She looked around to comprehend that all of her sister she was supposed to be watching were gone. "Miss, are you alright?" The vendor inquired as her customer was doubled over in discomfort. One knew the woman had spoken but she couldn't make out the words. The normal ringing in her ears had just doubled. Her brain felt like it was under attack.
"Sorry, I need to find my sisters now." Without completing the transaction she left on unsteady feet. Like a form of echolocation her sister's song bounced off her body leading her the correct way. She wasn't sure if it was because her eyes were stronger than normal. However not only could she feel it she could also see her sister's musical score flowing in the air. Unlike Zero's song, this one didn't provide her any comfort with a twinge of melancholy. If anything it had the opposite effect; rapid heartbeat and a rush of adrenaline. She could feel the threat coming from her younger sibling. "I'm coming wait for me."
"Leave my little sisters alone." Their attention turned to the newcomer. Five stopped singing and shot her elder sister an appreciated look. It was Three and her general expressionless face wore an amount of dissatisfaction. The slouched over girl held her favorite scissors opening and closing them in an unsettling way.
The rays of the sun reflected off her blades emphasizing there sharpness. Once they were able to brush off the disorientation the males finally got the memo; this girl was an absolute threat. "Come on, let's go."
Three sheathed her scissors. "Are you alright?" She sauntered over to Four who looked like she needed assistance just to stand. Looking around it appeared that everyone on the street was having a hard time.
"Thank you."
The golden haired girl turned to the panting brunette. Her green eyes brightened innocently while her smirk said something different. "You stood up for me." It wasn't very often that the youngest tried to tease her back.
Four grimaced and averted her gaze. "I did no such thing. It was Sister Three." Five took a quick glance at Three and still smiled warmly at Four. "Can we find the others and go home now. Please."
Two found them seconds later repeating questions of concern. From the opposite direction One dashed over with the same questions repeating from her mouth.
People regained their clarity and stared at them; talking in hushed tones to each other. Embarrassment and fear hit the oldest. While only her five senses were strong her 'six sense' felt just as acute. What was she supposed to do here? Apologize for disturbing the peace? Or just leave?
"Hey! You girls there!" A small group of guards yelled running towards them.
"Never mind, later. Go! Go!" One hastily ushered them to run. Practically pushing Three to make sure she wasn't left behind. Without accomplishing their shopping they ran out of the city. The guards at the gate awfully suspicious at their haste –empty handed- retreat. The kin only stopped when they were sure no one was following them home.
"Did I do something bad? Is it my fault?" Five stopped walking; there was the saddest expression on her face as she glanced around her family. One was nibbling on her lip, Two was unsure, Three was quiet and Four was staring at the ground. When no one spoke up Three placed a hand on her sister's head and rubbed tenderly.
"It wasn't your fault." Those four simple words were enough to release the tension between them. The rest of the walk was less somber but still silent. Five and Three walked side by side behind the group. One walked in the middle keeping her attention on the pair behind her and ahead of her. The second youngest was acting fine now. Two still walked by her side just in case. It was alright now, it just had to be.
But what was it? She pressed a hand to her heart. She had felt the vibrations from Five's song. Multiple emotions echoed in her chest when she heard it. And yet she still felt the driven to sing with it; to harmonize their songs together.
This wasn't normal, was it? It felt dangerous too. What is it? When she heard Five's song something in her own diaphragm and voice box reacted. She placed her finger tips to her throat.
Zero was sitting outside waiting for them. She wore a serious in thought expression. One frowned; she didn't like the idea of having to tell her they failed to get what they needed. Neither did anyone else. Wordlessly they walked passed her and into their home. Zero narrowed her eyes as One stood in front of her with a somewhat defeated look.
"What happened?"
A chill ran up her spine. Did the eldest feel Five's song from here? "I'm not sure." It sounded silly. That someone's voice could be used almost like a weapon. How else would you describe it? "Sorry…" Silence fell over them for several seconds. But One needed to know. She swallowed and made eye contact with the taller girl. "Something is weird here. Something is off. Sister, what are we?"
"I don't know." She answered honestly.
"You know, I'm the seconds oldest but I can't remember our sisters being born." Sure, it didn't seem like they were separated by any significant amount of time. But surely she would remember at least one of them. Where they even born? "I just have this feeling I need to protect them and that's it." The blonde pressed her hand to her heart. It felt like a normal heartbeat at the very least.
"…"
One felt her heart drop at the lack of response. The blonde felt rather dejected over everything. She really was trying her best. Right now Three was providing Five with some sort of support. Two was off with Four trying to entertain and preoccupy her mind.
The smaller girl huffed and sat down uncharacteristically close to the elder. Zero raised an eyebrow. Her gantlet covered hands grasped at her white shirt as she stared at her feet. With a deep inhale the younger girl relaxed her body. Allowing her head to fall on the murderer's shoulder and bear some of her weight. The longer haired woman didn't seem to mind. In fact it was endearing when One consciously reached out for comfort dropping her independent act. The deeply hidden part of her wondered is that's how she acted when she first accepted their unexpected presents into her life. The convict never looked back.
"I don't think we can return to the city at least for a few weeks. Maybe things will settle down and everyone will forget." Well, it wasn't impossible for them to completely survive just off the forest for a while. "Are we all going to be ok?"
Zero couldn't answer.
After a breakfast of soft-boiled eggs on toasted bread, with dried fruits preserved in honey it was decided they would attempt another trip into town.
Much to the dismay of Four and Five it was put to a poll rather or not they should attempt going into the city or just stay home. For the foreseeable future it would now only be One and Two going. Since the others had their faces exposed to the crowd the longest it was best to leave them home.
"Don't worry I can carry everything." Two carelessly grinned; flexing one of her biceps to prove a point. Of course she knew that's not the reason everyone was concerned.
The eldest sibling huffed. "Just try and stay out of trouble." Both girls put on a serious expression and gave a nod. Three yawned breaking the anxious moment much to everyone's relief. She was the only one who didn't care about being left behind. The other two not only felt bad about causing trouble but wanted to go.
The blonde relaxed a bit once they were out of view of their siblings. The trip was surprisingly quiet. A quick glance at the muscular girl showed that she wasn't tense or uncomfortable. She was just uncharacteristic quiet.
"Listen, I just want to get what we need and head back." One spoke as the gate came into view. She swallowed hard and pressed forward. "Don't look suspicious."
"I understand." The girls lowered their heads as the pasted through the gate. They looked suspicious the guards standing there gave them an unimpressed glare. It was a warning, silently telling them not to make trouble. Once passed a relieved sigh escaped their throats. Two dropped her tensed shoulders and started to think about the items they needed. "Flour, oats, sugar… How about some seafood?"
"Maybe, if we have enough." One didn't like to deviate from a list. She didn't think the others would have a problem with a meal change to their diet though.
"I've always wanted to try a sea serpent recipe."
"You can't buy sea serpent here." The blonde smiled. They weren't particularly close to the port either. The fish would spoil before getting back home. Though if they could bring something that would keep the fish alive during travel then maybe trips once in a while would be worth it. Unconsciously the older girl crossed her arms in thought. Maybe she could run the idea with Zero to build a fish tank on wheels or something. Though if Two specifically wanted sea serpent that would be far too much trouble. How could they construct something durable to contain a monster?
By the time One exited her thoughts Two was already talking to the vendor. Her eyes landed on the price for eggs and she flinched. And maybe she should bring up the idea of building a chicken coop; that would cheaper in the long run. The petite girl rubbed her chin in thought calculating the price of feed and care for a few chickens. Two constantly used eggs to cook with so it was unlikely to be wasted. If the chickens hatched too quickly and grew then that's also a meal.
"Why is it so expensive?" The sound of the strong girl's voice broke One out of her thoughts. She walked over and peered over her shoulder.
The seller sighed; there was a clear sign of stress written on her face. "Lady Caerula raised the tax once more. It's not just here but in the other lands as well. I hope you don't rely on anything that's imported because that doubled."
"I guess we don't have enough for some fish. We barely have enough for what we need." The rise in cost made Two cut back on everything they wanted. The lady filled her cloth bag with flour and filled another with sugar.
"Here you go." With a forced and tired smile the woman handed the older sister the last two bags, rice and salt. "It won't be long before I need another job." She grumbled as they walked away.
"Job, huh?" Two glanced worriedly over at One who smiled kindly. "Maybe we should start looking around?"
"Getting a job sounds interesting. But that would mean we would have to travel every day and when it's dark." One hummed in agreement. Unless they could find live in work with a simple meal. Sadly that would mean spending time away from the others. Neither really could imagine being separated from the rest of the family.
"-Hey you! Stop immediately!" The sound of clanking armor feet and a male voice made One tense up sweat forming on her forehead. If someone placed a hand on either of them the elder girl would fight defensively. The guard ran passed them and reached for a walking boy. While some of the tension left. The fact it wasn't them under his scrutiny didn't make her feel any better. The knight was trying to pry a small loaf of stale looking bread from the crying child's hand.
The amber haired girl reached for her sibling who had stepped forward in a confronting manner. She was wearing an expression of rage; something Two never acted out. She was the less likely of the sisters to ever act out too negatively. Of course had she truly lost control One wouldn't be able to hold her back.
The crying boy was pushed to the ground once the bread was freed from his hand. The guard grunted and turned not bothering to spare even a glance at the dirty sobbing child. Was he really going to return a small loaf of day old bread? Not one person spared the weeping boy notice as everyone minded their own business. Wiping his tears he slowly got up with small red scrapes on his knees and sauntered off.
"The people are really suffering."
"The economy won't be able to last like this. If the crime rate gets higher…" Well, it was unlikely that the lords would change anything no matter how much the citizens were distressed. More likely the only thing that would increase would be the number of people in prison.
Two closed her eyes taking deep breathes in an effort to relax all the muscles in her body. After a few long seconds she was able to plaster a smile on her face again. "Better?" One asked she wasn't going to move until she was sure her younger sister wasn't upset anymore.
"Yeah, I'll carry all the bags now." The taller girl split the weight of the bags between her hands. "Also sorry, for squeezing your hand…" Two frowned sometimes she forgot about her own strength resulting in bone crushing injuries. If felt like her metacarpal bones felt the worse of her squeeze.
"Don't worry. It'll heal in no time."
It had been a couple of week since One and Two started jobs within the city. Two work doing various manual labor jobs. That was just until she made friends with the architects and the brick maker. The peppy girl excelled in bricklaying.
One's first choice of teacher or book keeper was in very low demand. Any real interesting artisan craft One excelled in required connection which the out of town girl didn't have. One settled for a job at a tavern only for her to realize how badly the atmosphere assaulted all of her sense. She would have thought that Two would've had a harder time getting a job than her. Jokingly the small girl entertained the thought of becoming a bard but knew that would backfire. She really wasn't friendly enough to appeal to an employer was she? Now she was a hunter and trapper; returning with the most prey with a little bit of recognition.
Zero was on the fence over the discussion. Four was the only one who actively disliked the idea, or perhaps just hated being left behind. The sisters sat together enjoying a meal for the first time in a while. After the first bite Five's first comment was how much better Two's cooking was too compared to the others. Followed by a silent promise Zero made to herself to slam her face in the next bowl of gruel that she ever-so-kindly made for her family.
"Things have gotten worse in the city. As expected, crime had risen." One reached over to Three and wipe away a grain of rice that was stuck to her cheek.
"There are more orphans then families in the streets." Two added.
"There are protesters being chased and wanted posters put up. The guards are becoming more violent with people."
"How horrible." The brunette voiced with an exaggerate tone.
"There was a public execution today. Hung for theft; there's been at least one every day."
Ruby eyes averted to her food. "Citizens are the ones who make a country. The government would fall apart without them. They're revolting already; really it's them in charge that should be living in fear. Why don't lords acknowledge this?"
"Well what are you going to do overthrow them?" The fair haired woman laughed. One stared back at her and it took a spit second to realize her joke was seriously being considered. Right, One didn't have a sense of humor. "Oi, oi, oi…Hey! What are you thinking?!"
The second oldest blinked broken out of her reverie. "I mean… We could probably do it, easily might I add."
Zero didn't deny the possibility but that didn't mean that they should do it. She noticed the improved athleticism of her and her sisters compared to normal guards -who were known for strength and stamina. It wouldn't even be a contest. Why are we so powerful?
Intoners. You are intoners; those who sing.
"Intoners…" Zero tasted the word on her lips. "We are intoners." The words reverberated in their ears; it was familiar like common knowledge.
"If we're not normal humans then we should help them." The five of them all seemed to except the term too fast for Zero's liking. They were deciding large things far too quickly. The instincts that kept her alive as a young girl were setting off alarms.
"Intoners should help others."
"We should fight for freedom and justice. Let's take those awful lords down!"
Justice? Why did that stand out to her? And image of a small horrible abused girl with needles in her eyes flashed in her mind. A tiny rebel whose last words were "we weren't wrong." Zero gasped and held her head. There was a sharp pain coming from her eye. It felt like there was something behind the eyeball.
"Are you alright?" A covered hand landed on the primogenitor girl's shoulder making her flinch at the touch.
She looked into the worried face of the second eldest. Turning away she realized her other sisters shared the same worried look. "Yeah, I'm fine…" Another face flashed in her mind. It was that of a nun that had died. No, not died but murdered. She had done it hadn't she? "You'll be destroying the peace we have though."
"That's a pretty small price to pay if I'm being honest."
The criminal grunted and scratched at the back of her head irritable. The expressions on the other four siblings were just as convinced as One. With faces full of resolve she didn't think there was anything that could be said to change their minds. They did have a hive mind like thought pattern. "I'm going to rest for a bit."
"Alright…"
"I'm going to stay here."
They looked surprise at Zero's reluctance. She was a criminal but One thought she would feel safe with them regardless. They were all going to be criminals by the end of this anyway. It sung a little to know they weren't going to work together on this. The sisters were always together. Still it wasn't like the blonde was going to force her. "I understand." Maybe once they over throw the lords Zero will feel safe around the city.
"We won't be together?" The brunette asked as if hit with sudden separation anxiety. One shook her head.
"It would be better if we split up and conquer quickly. That way no lord can warn another about our attack. Also the fast we do this the better it will be for the people." Four frowned but understood her thinking. "So I was thinking I would go to Cathedral City, Two would get the Land of Sands, Three stay here in the Land of Forests." Travel wasn't really Three's thing. She was likely to pass out in the middle of a road. "Four will take the Land of Mountains and Five will take the Land of the Seas." Each girl nodded when they heard their assignment. There were no questions so they just headed off in different directions.
They will be fine. They are maturing well.
The original intoner watched them go. She didn't feel any sadness or loneliness from watching them walk away. In fact she wasn't worried about them in the slightest but for everyone else they happen to come across.
We are maturing as well. Soon.
What?
It didn't take long; a rough estimate of a month.( Honesty the month was mostly for traveling; all the sisters were on foot. The storming of the castle only took a few hours.) All the old rulers of the lands were outright murdered. In all honesty Zero didn't care about the murder they committed. She was no different after all. A vindictive part of her was happy when One had murdered people from the city. The same guards that whipped her and left her to die. Or the owners of the brothel house that sold her off to clients multiple times a day. Good riddance! She was sure that rebel was laughing in her grave –not that the guards even gave her a burial.
The changes they made were immediate. Taxes were lowered to a fair affordable rate. All forms of execution and torture where stopped till every person got a fair trial. The useless treasures and gems were sold and used to stimulate the economy. More attention was put into growing crops and making trade routes easier. Citizen moral improved and crime went down. Overall no one could really complain.
She stood in front of a dragon with his red cat like eyes peering into her soul. A pinkish flower had sprouted from her eye socket. After her siblings left it was a month of pain as it sprouted out of her eye socket. Either from the flower's influence or just great anger at her fate the girl couldn't feel any remorse towards others. They had no right to complain about their lives till they lived like her.
The flower had roots all through her body. The rhizome grew and circulated through her body like it was a normal vein. They entangled around her organs holding them hostage in a way. As if the flower didn't hold her hostage from the very start. No wonder she didn't die earlier. A root was pumping her heart for her.
"Supposedly the noble dragon race and the flower are natural enemies. However, I'm not going to blindly believe every tale I'm told."
"I don't think it's a tale." Her fingers traced the top of her newly forged dragon fang sword. The flower twitched in fear. Good. At the very least the bud hated being around the dragon. She felt this was enough proof to back up her theory. With this she could go after her sibling. After swinging a blade to feed them she now had to swing a blade at them.
"I can't believe you're surrendering so hastily to your fate. Don't you don't think you can destroy the flower yourself and break free of your curse?"
A self-depreciating smile flashed on her face before becoming a sneer aimed at the larger creature. "What? Don't have it in you to kill me anymore? What about a dragon's noble promise?" There was no way to break her curse and keep her alive. She knew that and so did he. Why did he not want to see her give up?
"Don't insult my pride, I will keep my promise and grant you silence."
"Good."
She mounted her new companion. Being close to this dragon calmed her nerves for a reason she was unsure about. It was a completely different feeling from being surrounded by her sisters. This felt warmer and natural. It also made the flower somewhat submissive. Zero felt more in control of her body around him. Michael flapped his wings lifting his body from the ground. "Just wait for me, my dear sisters."
A/N: I would also think that the flower would try to mess with her memories as well. Trying to seduce her into a happier false reality, with over the top loving siblings. It just doesn't have a great effect because she's the original. Though I really wonder how she figure outs the flower is evil. She knows the flower is bad before finding a dragon so he clearly doesn't tell her.
