After that day, we just lazed around. There wasn't much to do for babies, after all. No one actively tried to talk about the past anymore; though they would bicker among themselves once in a while.
Our fates were intertwined in a game we didn't choose. As a person from another world, it hurt my brain to make sense of their dynamics. It's difficult to unlearn things, after all. So, learning their 'common sense' was a priority for me.
Days passed, and I learned more about my sisters. Each one had distinct traits that made them special. Elanor was the eldest, calm and wise, but she was quite the character. She needed everything well-planned and was an over-the-top perfectionist. The other day, they were discussing how to bother their mothers, and I joined in with some ideas—props to all the novels I'd read. That was fun.
Out of nowhere, Elanor started speaking. "You must understand our family ties," she said one evening. Ugh… I hate names and family tree stuff.
Dorothy teased, "Elanor, don't turn this into a lecture! Lighten up a bit!"
Alice chimed in, her mischievous grin spreading. "Or we could start a magic prank war! Who's in?"
"No one, we can't use magic yet," Elanor replied, her tone flat.
"That's the only reason to look forward to turning six months old!" Alice giggled.
"We can play around like before when we get our magic and start walking," Dorothy added, trying to keep the mood light.
Iris, always the caretaker, shook her head with a small smile on her face. "As long as it doesn't involve getting chased by guards again, I'm game."
Sometimes, as they talked about their past, I felt a little left out. Their histories wove together like fine yarn, while mine felt like a loose thread. I shrugged it off, knowing I was still part of this family. Yet, I couldn't help but hate this feeling—ugly jealousy creeping up on me. I wanted Maya here, just so I could cuddle in her warmth and relax.
I couldn't help but feel stressed around my sisters. Although they seemed to have somewhat accepted me, I had not exactly become someone privy to their inner circle. This was hard, and my people-pleaser mentality, developed over years of high school bullying, wasn't helping.
Trying to get back on track, I said, "Sister, about the family ties?"
"We all have strong family ties," Elanor replied. "My mother, Consort Valeria, comes from a military family—the Duke of Vintermoor."
"And what about the others?" I asked, trying to sound interested.
"Consort Heather, Alice's mother, is from a scholarly family, Count Gladius. Then there's Consort Camellia, , hailing from Marquis Aluminas—also a strong scholarly family. Finally, we have Consort Lavender, Iris's mother, from Count Luminara, a family with deep roots in the priesthood."
"And don't forget about Consort Petunia, too," Iris chimed in. "She came from a merchant family, the Marquis Clematis. They're the greatest exporters and manage a large part of our economy, but they have always been shunned for being a merchant family. Stupid noblesse oblige."
"Too many names…" I muttered. If this were an anime, I would have the classic swirly eyes.
Elanor continued, "Did you know Consort Valeria was once a fierce warrior?" She looked uncertain, as if it was right to mention her or not.
"Yup, she's got the strongest whip; I experienced it first-hand," Alice retorted sharply.
Guess the consorts should not be mentioned in a positive light here.
"Yeah, and Consort Petunia throws the best feasts!" Dorothy added, trying to lift the mood.
That really helped quell the tension. Elanor and Alice were already seething, but they stopped at the mention of my mother.
Here's the recap: Elanor's mother is Consort Valeria, who is a fighter. Alice's mother is Consort Heather, a scholar and well-reputed mage. Dorothy's mother is Consort Camellia, a great physician who is also skilled at handling poisons. Then there's Consort Lavender, a priestess who is also a battle mage and excels in war strategies. Finally, there's Consort Petunia, the queen of high society—human relations and manipulation are her forte.
As the days rolled on, we spent our time lounging about, indulging in small joys and light-hearted conversations.
Yet, beneath the surface, I felt the ever-present struggle of fitting in.
The way my sisters interacted was filled with layers of history I wasn't a part of. They had their inside jokes, their shared memories, and I was just trying to find a way to carve out my own space in this puzzle.
"Hey, do you think we'll ever learn to use magic?" I asked one afternoon, hoping to steer the conversation somewhere lighter.
"Definitely!" Alice exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "Once we hit six months, we'll be unstoppable!"
"More like chaotic!" Iris chimed in, laughter dancing in her voice. "But I can't wait!"
I felt a surge of anticipation at the thought of finally joining them in their playful endeavors. The prospect of magic was exciting, but it also highlighted the gap between us.
As I lay there, listening to their laughter, I wondered if I'll even be able to use magic.
But with each passing day, I hoped to become a part of their world. The jealousy I felt was a reminder of my insecurities, but it also fueled my desire to grow stronger and more connected with them.
I took a deep breath, letting the warmth of the moment envelop me. "Let's make a pact," I suggested suddenly. "When we turn six months old, we'll have our first official sister's magic party."
The room fell silent for a moment as they looked at me, then broke into excited chatter.
"Count me in!" Dorothy said, her eyes shining.
"I'm in too!" Alice added, practically bouncing with enthusiasm.
Iris smiled softly, "As long as we keep it safe and fun."
Elanor nodded, her serious expression softening. "That sounds like a wonderful idea."