The children trailed behind her as she introduced them to the castle. Two twin girls, experimented on to include animals that presumably fit their personalities.
Sona had long, blonde hair. Stained bandages covered her eyes. And short bunny ears atop her head.
Mara, had short, black hair. She was silent - mute, the older girl presumed. She sported cat ears, that felt like they served as her voice.
Upon looking down at their heads, the eldest girl had noticed stitch-shaped marks parting their hair, directly where the ears were. Their masters must have them working on some fun experiments. Maybe her Master would finally turn her into the mutt he says she is.
Regardless, she had been showing the twins around the castle. Following in her Master's guiding footsteps, speaking only when he told her to explain them a rule. And it seemed the twins had been instructed not to speak until given direct permission. Honestly, she was amazed at how obedient they were at such a young age. They must have been trained very well!
Finally, their trail of knowledge came to an end at the medical quarters.
Master turned to face them. All three stopped dead in their tracks.
Now, questions will be permitted, including clarification on the rules my 51 has explained to you. Sona?
The bunny-eared girl perked up at her name, meeting Master's eyes.
It has come to my attention through your doctor that your sister, Mara, had her voice taken away. Am I to understand that you speak for her?
Very well. Can your sister write?
Seeing as she is so young. Do you think I will be able to understand her writing?
The oldest girl couldn't help glancing back at the younger. A trick question, for sure. She hoped the little one would answer correctly.
Sona seemed to be deep in thought. Her tongue poked out just slightly as she debated on her words.
I think… um, yes, sir. You're smart, sir, so I think you can understand her. Sir.
The older one glanced at her Master. Did Sona answer correctly? Or would she need to fix it?
Master seemed pleased. Enough to allow a small smile.
Well said, little rabbit. I'm going to allow 51 to answer your questions now, while I have a talk with your doctors.
Master left. He closed the door behind him.
The elder girl let out a sigh of relief.
You two behave so well for your age! You must be cared for dearly by your doctors. What questions do you have? For little minds like yours, I’m sure there must be some.
Sona glanced at her twin.
Mara's ear flicked as she returned the look.
Ma'am, can Mara please have a writing pad? Will your doctor allow that?
She couldn't help but chuckle.
Oh, no, Sona! He's not my doctor, he's my Master.
… are you the doctor? Ma'am?
When Master allows me to be, yes. But I'm not nearly as good as your doctors. I'm only a mere servant for my Master. So no need for formalities!
Ohhh… okay. Do you have a name?
Yes! My name is 512926125208, also known as 51. But sometimes, Master calls me by a nickname, or by my title.
Can we know your other name?
Not unless he permits me to tell you.
Okay! Um, Mara wants to know why it's just you as the doctor?
Well, everyone here has roles they play. As you've heard, we have Cook, Smoke, and Assassin. I'm the Nurse, the lowest of all of Master's servants.
Well, not in our sense. Your doctor is higher than me, simply based on power. So even though I'm the Nurse, I'm still lower than your doctor.
Ohhh… so, our doctor is the equivalent of your Master?
Yes! Wow, such a big word for someone your age! You must be well-taught.
Thank you! Mara also wants to know, where the other kids are?
Oh, there are no other kids, sweetie.
… then why do you want us?
I'm not sure. Master hasn't told me.
What kind of animal are you?
A mutt, presumably. When Master favors me, he'll allow me to become one.
Well, I act like a mutt, of course! In a similar way to you and your sister, I assume. Do you have any other questions?
Yes, please! Where will we sleep?
I would assume so, yes. Though, I'm not sure if Master will let you sleep in the same cell.
Well, he needs to make sure you behave.
But I can't see without Mara. And Mara can't speak without me.
I see… well, we'll have to ask your doctors about the arrangement, then!
As if on cue, a knock sounded through. Before the door opened with a creak.
She immediately knelt down. Sona and Mara stayed standing, but gave slight bows out of respectful confusion.
51, I take it that you've answered all their questions?
Good girl. On your feet. The meeting is done. Sona, Mara, your doctor will explain the results once you get back to your lab. Is that clear?
