My breath became airy as I got a glimpse of my friends below, waiting for me to clear the wall as the rest of them did. No one owned the land beyond this old structure that still stood from years after the divide, yet no one ever comes out here and does much with it. The plants and animals have taken over abundantly, all for the picking of those who venture the dangers out here.
Where the sun does not touch within the shadows the creatures stay. At night you would be a full to be out here because this is their domain. Creatures the Rings made for reasons we don't really know, and we don't question it.
My foot flat on the wall ready to leap down. In the distance I can see our clearing beyond the trees. The blue sky's welcomed us on this day, and a light wind blew my hair back as I pushed myself off. Something we have done many times. To gather the gatherable within our designated areas. Coming out here to help our people back home.
My friends all waited below me. Smiling faces as we need to get back home quicker today. Choosing to be close in a world that closeness will be bound to hurt you. Normally we don't form ties until we age out because the pain of losing a friend is too much to bear.
Quickly the sky became the ground, and I had no time to react before I hit the ground. All my air got knocked out of me in one hard smack. Folding into myself my body went forward, and my feet couldn't stand. Rolling down the hill my name was shouted from afar. Blues and greens spun together before the sky welcomed me once more as I laid on my back.
I have no clue how much I rolled down, but before I knew it my friends were surrounding me.
"Really Ilaria?" Angilena mocked as she pushed ringlets behind her ear, "You had to fall now?"
A laugh rolled out of my stomach, dancing upon my tongue, and my chest shook as I let it escape with ease. The rest of my friends darted out of sight as Angilena reached out for my hand. Gladly taking it, she hosted me up.
"Gota give it to ya," Brody said, his hair a hint of red within the brow. The sun making it look like he's on fire. "Even when ya fall, ya laugh, no shits ya clumsy as hell." He paused as he grabbed my bag that I managed to keep on me, "No gifts suits ya well, been a waist if ya had, prob hurt ya self with them." He paused letting out a huff, "Damn, all the herbs are mixed."
I laughed once more as I pat off the dirt and grass that stuck to me. Taking a peek inside of my bag Brody was rummaging through.
I firmly placed my hand on his back. Grinning wide I reminded him, "They grow on the ground they don't mind touching, Brody. Your mom will still be more than grateful to have these herbs. Not like we can find them this potent around the clearing, especially not in town, even if they are a little wilted now, they are still the best."
Olivia, Brody sister that's three years older than him cough, "Might be best we get going. Ilaria ya good to walk?" Her long hair moved as the wind blew making the reds in her hair seem like flames trying to escape with the strands that didn't want to conform.
"A tumble like that isn't anything." I waved a hand, "You're right we should get ready for the Culling."
Olivia gave a sorrowful smile as she stared at her brother, "I aged out last year. Meaning…Ya three prepare ya-selves. May the Astray bless you three a safe Culling."
Brody, Angilena, and I unanimously said, "May the Astray bless us three a safe Culling."
Brody and Olivia use to live closer to the water traffic.They have a slightly different way to speak from the rest of us due to seeing different types of people often. Olivia used to be able to speak a bit of different dialects but has forgotten most of them because none of us in the Clearing spoke them.
Many use to travel there to find goods we may need in he Clearing. That was before it got dammed up for the first, second, and third Ring uses. Ever since the Ring's decided to take our traffic it has hurt the clearing's more than ever. A few ships from every Clearing had the rights a few times a year to travel to different Clearings even a few could go into the Rings to trade, and get necessary goods, but now they are land locked unable to do anything.
We walked past a stream that isn't even three feet wide. As we past I looked at my reflection in the bright blue water, a slight smile plastered on my face. I picked out some grass that got stuck in my hair from the fall. Flattening the fly away laying my hair flat.
Angilena said, "How much longer till this stream dries out?"
Olivia answer, "Not all dries because the river gone. If that was the case, it would been gone by now. Ya worry too much being so young."
Angelina is the youngest out of all of us but only by a year from me. She rolled her eyes, "Not like your gift is tied to water. I can feel mine weakening."
She lifted her hand out, and the stream reached for Angelina before falling back down, and she let out a sharp exhale.
Angelina has a useful gift, the power to control water, but her will isn't the strongest. She blames it on the river drying up. In honesty it never had been strong to start with. We still see others who carry orbs of water or shooting in strong blasts to put out fires during droughts and fires start to run wild.
Getting to the Clearing everyone scurried about. Decorating the main streets for everyone who had a safe Culling. A huge screen display on the Clearing's Hall building to broadcast twenty-four seven the Culling of the two who weren't as lucky. Walking up the two flights of stairs, in front of the clearing hall door, sat a bowl on a twisting of branches table. To donate money to help bring home our people if they survive the year. There's already money that's been donated. They don't even know who they are helping to bring home yet. I am always curious if other Clearings do the same things. Pitching in from the start, or if they even pitch in at all or is it up to the family of the Culled to get them home?
The clock is counting down, three hours left. We don't watch the pre celebration the Ring's broadcast before Culling. Despite all must participate, the Rings have rights to 'donate for safety', so they never end up truly participate in the games. These games after all is for their entertainment, and to remind us where our places are.
Angilena forced a weary grin, "Got our dollar for good luck?"
Circling the bowl we stood looking down. The four of us pulled out our dollar as we do every Culling. Even though Olivia won't be Culled she's doing this to bring better luck for her brothers safety. Of course, she will say it is for all of our safety, but we all know if she had the chance to choose one of us to take her brother place if he was Culled she would. Though she wouldn't offer herself. I don't think anyone loves one that much to risk their life in these games, and risk never getting home if they survive the year. The scariest part isn't the survival, it is who may get their hands on us at the end of it all.
We said simultaneously as the dollars flutter down settling into the nearly empty bowl, "May the Culled return safe."
Olivia and Body left first. Angilena looked over at me and gave me a tight smile before walking down the stairs. I stared at our money. The chance to bring one of our own home. Having to all chip in where the people of the rings probably blow their noses with this money on a daily.
I slowly made my way down the stairs. I walk through town as people use their abilities to hang streamers high up in the air.
Our home is the furthest away from everyone else. Despite Father being a Chamber member, he enjoyed living outside the limits of the town as much as possible at least without leaving our Clearing. As I pass a stull preparing for the celebrations afterwards I stopped. A hair bodkin sat on the table on top of a velvet runner caught my eye. Grazing my fingers across the long slender dagger shape hair ornament, garnets decorated at the top in the shape of a rose.
"Ilaria Rose." The stull lady said.
My gaze slid upwards as her three teeth shined bright as she smiled at me. Returning the smile, I am use to strangers knowing me by one glance. Clumsy Rose, Beautiful as the Roses themselves, one to brighten anyone's days. I hear their words as I pass by often.
"I am not open yet, but for you," She picked up the hair bodkin, "How can I tell a beauty like you no if you want to shop early."
"Temptress with beautiful words like these." I jester to the Bodkin with the Rose decorated garnets. "How much for it?"
"Clumsy of the Roses, wants the dagger of my set. You would then become a true Rose with thorns with this."
My jaw clenched for a moment, but nothing she said were lies. I can't get mad at her telling the truth. Most times people say these as I past not towards me. Mainly they say it to my Father worried about his youngest.
She unsheathed what looked to be a normal hair ornament reveling a sharp silver dagger. I tilted my head at the sight. Even the dagger is adorned with etched roses. She closed it up and held it in my reach.
"Come back after Culling and give me twenty for it."
I asked rubbing my fingers across the garnets. It's a little expensive but not by much for my family, "Are they real?"
"Came straight from this ground when we were rich with it. Older than I am."
I reached in my pocket to give her the cost, and she stopped me. My gaze slip up at her looking through my lashes. "What if I am Culled? You'll lose out."
Her grin grew wider showing a fourth tooth I missed before, "You are a Rose, you never get Culled. I know I will get my due. I am not open yet, so I don't have my money box with me to give you change."
She already knew I didn't have small bills. I bid her a goodbye staring at the beauty I will wear this evening.
Steadily making my way up the path to my house rows of flowers greeted me home. Before this home only held Roses, but my mom planted as many flowers as possible. Where she lived before she said she never got the chance to have flowers. Now when the Roses wilted away for the season more would come in their place. Even hardy winter flowers grow beneath the fallen snow. It is thanks to my Mother that we always have flowers.
The door flew open to my second oldest sister, the one I look closes to welcoming me with a sour expression. That's the only difference as I have a permanent smile, she has a permanent bitch face.
"Where have you been?" Bella holler as her beautiful black dress flowed down the steps, "We have only two hours before we must leave."
I kissed her on the cheek, "And I need less than that to be ready for the night of celebrations."
She pushed me through the house and up the stairs. Getting glimpses of my eldest sister chasing around her four-year-old child. Dressed in everything but his pants and shoes. What a beautiful sight. Her belly rounded as she will have another one soon. Will she have twins like Mother did? I looked down at my flat belly. My hand gently touching it. Maybe once I have aged out I will find a husband to love me like she does. The only downside would be once they are ten they will have to sit in the crowd waiting every two years to see if they are Culled.
I sat in my bedroom dressed in a deep red dress, black tulle peeking from underneath. What others wouldn't know there's also pants in case today is my Culling. All of us girls wore pants under our dress. A few knives in our pockets ready for anything. While the world saw beautiful Roses without thorns always relying on our luck to keep us safe and happy.
"You are stunning." Bella said steeping back.
I moved my head around, half braided as the bodkin rose gleamed, the other side large ringlets of curls. "You do beautifully every year."
"Luckily one more time, and then you get to wear dresses like sister and I." She grab both of my shoulders leaning in close staring at me through the mirror. "then to find yourself your forever, your mate, your husband."
My lips curled upwards smiling without teeth. One more Culling after this and I get to look forward to my future. To live life with a man I fall in love with. A strong man with broad shoulders to protect his family. One who has gifts, so our children have a better chance on being useful in our Clearing.
A knock on the door and creeped in my father, "Are you girls ready?"
Bella hulled me upwards showing me off. My dress and I didn't have time to recover from the sudden movement. She twirled me, my dress circling out. Father's eyes soften as his mouth frowned when I finally stop to be able to see him. Smiling brighter for his lack of one. Walking over taking his hand in mine I patted them softly.
He got a freshly done cut. The top, a few inches long, slicked back, the sides I can see his scalp. A goatee and mustache matching the gray on his head.
"It's almost over my girl." He kissed my forehead, "Come on girls it is time to get going."
We locked our arms in his. I leaned my head on his shoulder letting out a breath I been holding onto.
Every two years we must do this. Fear trickling down all our spines with the same thought, what if this is the year one of us get Culled. My family showing their worries as I stand out. Tilting my head I smile knowing we are almost out of this nightmare. Until my eldest sister children are at the age at least.
My brothers born the same day a few minutes apart stood at attention. They wore red suits, with a black undershirt. Their cufflinks black roses. Them too wore knives, and underclothes to help protect them in the early Culling if it's their due.
May walked with her husband and her son too young to understand what this day is. He finally has his pants on and one of his two shoes. Our Father grab his grandson toes pretending to bite them as he slip the shoe on. The boy shouted in giggles trying to squirm away.
She handed the boy to her husband leaning over letting out a long breath. The other in her stomach has been giving her troubles. She will be due in a few months. Hopefully this one will be a girl, she wants a girl so much, and she deserves it especially how hard this one has been to her. This is the most I have seen her moving around in weeks. No one misses this day due to respect. Especially when they still have family in it.
Walking out the Roses together like always. Making our way to the town, my Father, Douglas, gripped my hand a little firmer. Slowly we slipped behind the rest of the family.
"You went beyond that wall again didn't you." He asked in a hush tone.
I let out a sigh. I thought I avoided the birds he spoke with. Seems like they still saw me leave or at least came back and squawked the news.
I did not lie, "Yeah. Before you give me the lecture Olivia was with us. Her gift would had allowed us to know if we were in any danger. I should add I found some herbs we haven't seen for years now. I have them in water to hopefully they will start to root and we can grow them. This time not letting the Rings…" He shushed me.
After a moment he smiled despite his eyes filled with sorrow. "This shouldn't be your burden. The Rings, they should be caring more about us out here."
"They dried up the river Father. They released those animals and monsters in the woods to make sure we don't talk to other Clearings. They are isolating…"
Father only shook his head as he glanced to the sky, "You never know who's gift is so powerful they can hear."
I gulped watching a flock of birds flying above at that moment. You don't even dare think the thoughts. Not in your forefront at least. Thoughts must be deep within your mind, hushed whispers that can never be found.
"We will have a Chambers meeting tonight. Meaning it is I, of our family, who needs to worry. Not my youngest daughter to have that burden on your shoulders.
"Only worry about partying with your friends tonight and getting home safe mildly drunk. Tomorrow I have a special lunch for all of you." Dad wrapped his arm around my shoulder hugging me tight.
Every year one of us age out of Culling he does a huge party to celebrate. I don't think he realized we figured it out that he will do it for all of us. It is nice to see the glimmer in his eyes once more when we gasp in surprise when he comes out with a cake with our name on it and 'Congratulations on surviving the culling'. This year it will be for my brothers. I wonder if they will have one cake or will he get two? Next celebration will be for me. After the Culling at least because I am not as lucky as Olivia to age out before the Culling.
He whispered so faintly the air could had wash it away, "It's all almost over. I promise you."
Too bad mom couldn't be here to watch us make it through. She succumbed to cancer seven years ago. That is also around the time Father lost his a bit of his gift. Where animals practically avoid him where they once surrounded him. They were all around our house at one point. Filling the sky with much noise. Now as I walk home I would be lucky to see a few birds around.
That night when she died was hard on all of us. The skies were dark filled with swarms of anything that flew. He desperately called the Rings to beg to save her. Even the third Ring rejected his pleas for assistance. We all waited there. Watched her final breath and our light was sucked from the world around. Darkness surrounding everything to the point the animals in the sky dropped to the ground scattering. My dad screams killed them with his gift, they felt his sorrows too much and their little hearts couldn't handle it. Our lives never were really the same after our light vanished.
Getting to the clearing hall, people already started to take their seats. There's still fifteen minutes till we must be all seated before the Bulwarks start surrounding us.
"The Rose family, how beautiful to see you are still so tightly wound together!"
Another member of the Chamber greeted us. It was the eldest son of the Grandle family. He is to take over for his father soon, but for the life of me I never can remember his name. I think it also started with a G, could been a J?
Father looked over at my brothers and I, "We will see you three after the Culling. Mr. Grandle I have some notes I'll like to add for tonight's discussion."
Bella and May gave us all hugs before following my Father.
Nathan and Elliot each took a hand. My chest rose and fell slowly glancing up at my brothers.
Nathan said, "Even when your clearly nervous sister."
Elliot finished, "You still find a way to keep even the smallest of smiles."
Nathan and Elliot gave each other a look. Then I felt a fog run over my mind. It was just a flutter where any other would dismiss it, but I have had years of experience with this.
"Brothers, do not look into my woes."
They looked back at each other then held me closer to them. The fog slowly lifted where I felt only my mind with me.
Their gifts are linked as the umbilical cord was in our mother's womb. Even though they are two, the world even see them as one. Tall and slender much how our mother was. Masculine features to match our Fathers, but their jaws are slightly slimmer.
Even I have troubles somedays knowing what brother I speak to only by looks. Only when you look deep into their eyes can you see the difference. Deep brown like the woods on the shortest day, the sun ready to take a long slumber. Nathan has the smallest piece cut out, almost like the Astray mistook his eye for a chocolate pie. Sneaking a sliver, darker than the rest. That is how you tell my brothers apart by looks.
We walked past the rest who were already seated. Noting my two friends sitting on the outer edge. I gave a nod as we passed by. We don't sit with the rest. We have a special spot where Chamber members sit. Up on a platform behind everyone esle at least ten steps high. Lucky to not be crammed in like fish. We have room where a chair can be set between us.
My brothers went up before me. I looked back at the screen only two minutes left before the cameras start rolling. My Father and the rest of the members of the Chamber took their place in front of the two-name calling bowls. All the children of the members who have aged out stood off to the side. May and Bella stood there while May husband and child had to stand with the rest of the aged out.
Father caught my stare and gave me a wink. He is telling me not to worry. I bowed my head slightly at him before I turned to take my seat.
Running my hands under my butt ensuring even the bottom of my dress sat with poise. Rubbing the top, I need it to look perfect for the cameras.
My brothers moved their seats closer to mine making the three as one. Scoffs came from the other members still in the Culling. Who kept distant even from their own siblings. They think it shows strength to stand alone. Showing if they are Culled they don't need alliance. In the possibility they make it a year someone from the Rings will bid on them, and they don't have to worry about the Clearing getting them back home. All ways to protect their egos at the end of the day. If you do not care you have the upper hand.
Where only my family finds strength in being together. 'Roses thorns can easily be taken when its only one, but when together more blood will be drawn than thorns can be removed.' That is why roses grow in bushes as a beautifully powerful wall.
We are the odd balls on the Clearing. Protecting each other no matter how sick one got. Seeing even someone giftless has strengths. A large group from Culling ages sitting as if we are never to be separated.
Thirty seconds left, and my Father stood in front of the microphone the two-name bowls beside him. There was a slight breeze giving the early summer days a nice feel. My brothers took my hands once more. Both rubbing the bottom of my wrist unconsciously, both have the same tick when worried. Small circular motions soothing their woes on the softest side of my wrist. Where if it is cut your life line will end.
Ten seconds. My heart picked up speed with each that dropped. Squeezing my brothers hands a little harder than before. They lean forward as I stared at our Father.
"Sister?" Elliot asked.
Darkness wrapped around my lungs. Rolling into my heart squeezing it tight. Everyone's chatters started to sound distant.
'Ilaria.' Elliot reached my mind. My eyes flew open as I jerked my head to look at him. 'Breathe, Sister, breathe.'
My smile falter, 'I don't want you guys to be Culled.'
Elliot and Nathan said in my mind unanimously, 'We are the Roses, our luck has our backs.'
Luck does not stay forever. Our mother luck ended early, and ever since then I have felt the favor of the Astray withering.
Nathan voice echoed, 'Even if we are,'
Elliot took over, 'we will come home.'
Simultaneously they finished, 'We always make it home.'
A tear streamed down my perfectly made-up face, 'Mother never did.'
Quickly Elliot took out his handkerchief. Dabbing my tears, 'Not here sister. Later can you cry.'
Blinking away my tears the siren went off. He is right we cannot show weakness in front of others. This is the pain only family can see.
There we kept our backs straight looking forward for the cameras to see the Four head Chambers of our Clearing ready for this day. Whatever little mutters that filled the air drifted away. Then the screen behind my Father turned on. The loud buzzing of a long sleeping machine that doesn't wish to be awoken. Even from back here you can feel its power vibrating through the air. The cameras panned to him as he smiled large for even the animals in the woods could clearly see him.
"We are the sixth Clearing." Father declared, "I Douglas Rose, the head of the four Chambers. Our people are ready for the festivities of today and the year to come for all who may be Culled."
He threw his arms in the air and on que birds flew to the air with feathers cascading down in a showmanship of Fathers gifts. At least on days like today they listen to him. Showing that we are still strong. The crowd cheered and we all clapped at his display.
The cameras panned over to the crowd before changing to the Seventh Clearing for their Chamber leader to do something similar as my Father. The ones before us did the same, their head Chamber member showing off whatever gift. A small act of strength without being threatening to the Rings.
I have heard even the Rings do something similar, but we never watch them. What is the point of watching perfectly fed, groomed, stress-free people showing off abilities they don't deserve. They probably never use them but for fun.
As the Fifteenth clearing got done the television went back to the Rings. They will do the same speech as they do every two years. How there's a beauty of the games we play. To show off the abilities and strengths of the Rings and Clearings. To give a chance to the strongest who last the year to live a better life with someone in the Rings or go back home to their Clearings. They make it sound so peaceful and happy. As if we should be proud to be Culled. Do the Rings actually believe all of this? That we want to be a part of these games? Do they not see the cruel truth behind it?
Even the price they give for safety is clearly only for the Rings to use. It is an amount Clearings can never save so it isn't even a hope for us. Not even I as the head Chamber member daughter would hope to be saved with the outrageous money the Rings have.
Despite if you speak to other people in our Clearing may disagree, but what would they know of my life. They can only watch from the sidelines. They never truly know what us Roses must do in life. What we must sacrifice due to Fathers standing. They always wait for a mistake so they can make fun of us when possible.
The doors from the town hall flew open, and the Bulwark came out in two rows. Carrying guns on their hips ready to put anyone in line who may make a disruption. Which it is just for show many of them have gifts they prefer to use.
The men and women from the Rings took their place in the inner aisle. None of the Bulwarks are from our Clearing. The Rings would never station them with the people they grew up with. It would cause too much sympathy one of which Bulwarks have none of. It is easiest to say they are from the Rings because that is where they reside now. Beside us Chamber member children only one Bulwark stood beside the stairs. We are always the least likely to cause an issue.
Surveying the area noting there are almost twice as many as last time. Where they would normally be standing outside because if one were to run it would be away from the crows. Now they stand within the isle.
As my brothers held my hands their circle movement on my wrist causing the area to go numb, I reached for their mind. Feeling the small foggy connection of their powers, I followed it. 'Why are there more Bulwark than last time?'
Elliot smirked, 'Do you know which brother you reached sister?'
I bit back, 'Of course not. The lines are identical like you two.'
Elliot laugh, 'Nathan, our sister is invading our minds now.'
Nathan shimmy his shoulders, 'It's creepy.'
I rolled my eyes, 'Imagine how others feel when you know their thoughts.'
We all chuckled with our internal dialog. People don't know they can speak through one minds. They assume all my brothers can do is invade a mind when they touch one another. To listen your inner dialog, the secrets they think are hidden, and what they regret most. Brothers say what one is most regretful of is what is easiest to find. As if your subconscious is begging for another to know.
'There was a fight that broke out last week.' Elliot suddenly answer my earlier question. 'Oh my.'
Nathan voice quicken, 'Shit. You have to tell Father after the Culling.'
'What. What happened last week?' I shifted in my seat.
The Bulwark glanced over at us raising a brow at my sudden movement. I flashed him a smile and his cheeks turned red. He aimed his attention forward as the color reached his ears. He's kind of cute, a little shy for my taste, but nice to look at. Though I do not wish to be with a Bulwark they always have horrible tempers. He is keeping ridged insuring his emotions aren't noticed by others. Not doing a good job are you.
Nathan demanded, 'If we tell you sister.'
Elliot tone deepening, 'you mustn't show your expression so easily.'
'I think I took care of myself quite well just now and the Bulwark over there.'
Nathan growled, 'Only for he is a dog who wants to take our sister flower.'
My lip curled at his words, 'I am still here.' I huffed, 'What fight happened last week that would have this type of response?'
Nathan answered the link between our minds. Hushed as if someone may hear our thoughts, 'The first Clearing somehow got into the Third Ring. They tried to protest…' his thought trilled off and I heard mutters from his link. Then he came back, 'There is too much talk. Too many assumptions. They are keeping the knowledge locked tight. Civilians got hurt. The agitators all were killed. Fire…'
Sweat bead down the back of my neck. I can't believe they would try something like that. How were they able to sneak inside, there are walls too high to climb, even if they did cameras would had spotted them.
Elliot nudged me, 'No one is foolish enough to try that here sister.'
I grinned, 'I know that. Just sad they would do something they knew would end their life.'
Nathen nudged my other shoulder before he could say something there was a scuff behind us.
The three of us turned as one to see Lucian, his leg crossed over glaring at me. His sharp brown eyes directed only at me because I can't do anything to him. I have no gifts. I am not strong like the others. I only have my family. The Rose without thorns.
Lucian grumbled, "Smiling on a day like this is morbid."
"The weather is beautiful today." I quickly said, "You can always find something in the day to smile about."
Nathen spat, "Saying smiling now is morbid, then you must get sick when the celebrations happen at night."
My brothers hand touched the back of the chair where Lucian could see. His gaze widened but no other is a match when my brothers start using their gifts. Even I have difficulty keeping them out.
Elliot scowled, "Nope, after the Culling he's planning to bed the mead daughter in celebration."
Nathen matched Elliot's scowl adding, "How would your girlfriend feel abought that, if we happened to let it slip?"
Lucian brows furrowed and he leaned forward. We should end this before we start to argue. Chamber members, even their kids, are supposed to show a sign of unison. As much as we can be in a world of games and disappearing for the Rings fun and needs. To the Rings, Chamber members are a game totally on their own. Bids on what child will end up together.
May disappointed everyone when she married one of such lower status. Other members probably thought the same, but never would they dare voice that concern to my Father after he gave his blessing.
I added, "Not to mention the hypocrisy about being morbid to smile when you have vial thoughts like that going on when they are about to Cull names. Now brothers leave his poor mind alone and watch the screen. No need to pay attention…"
Elliot try to finish, "To a dog."
Nathan read my other thought, "To a cheater."
I grinned big, "To a nobody."
We all chuckled as Lucian went to stand and quickly sit back down when he noted the Bulwark staring right at us. They normally aren't that worried about us moving before it is time to be Culled in our Clearing. I narrowed my eyes and quickly soften my expression. What happened in the Third Ring must have been bad?
Giving the man in uniform a wink and a kiss he gave me a nod before looking forward. A grin can take you further than a scowl.
The first Ring names were finally called after that long pre-show talk. Displayed the person standing. He waved at the cameras going to stage. I kept my spine straight an inch away from the chair insuring the sweat wouldn't show. It's all a show for them, they know they will never be in the games like us. Then the girl walked up next. They stood smiling knowing they will not truly participate.
Rings never need to worry about the ones they get close to never coming back. To turn into a shell of themselves after the games or never showing up practically being dead even if they didn't die in the game. We normally will never hear from them again. Very few people in the Rings have compassion to allow us to use any form of communication. Plus, the letters they may receive may not truly be from them. The hope it is true is all that matters for many.
Gillian the host of the Culling stood on stage. He spoke in the fake happiness the Rings speak. Very stiff words that are clipped at the end. It doesn't match their flowy and care free display they show the world and their actions. It always makes my wonder where was he from before he became the spokesman. If this is a character he likes to play for the games?
The Three Rings come together on this day, all to celebrate unlike the thirty families who may lose a member forever. Less if their luck is so poor that both children of different genders are Culled the same year. The Rings can mingle for the most part unlike the Clearings. We are just second-class citizens to them to put on a show for enjoyment, for pleasure, to buy.
Gilliam announced, "It is thirty thousand to donate for safety. Where we will use the donations to help the Rings and Clearings with much needed support."
My eyes widen at learning how the price went up to thirty this year. They didn't even bat an eye to pay the price. How nice is it to have that type of money. To always protect the people you care for, without worry. To have the ability to build a bond because you know you'll never be taken away. Most of the people don't have that privilege. More like they are too scared. Even mothers do not get close to their children, telling them they must be self-reliant because if you are Culled no one will look out for you. Only after twenty-two is when you can be a family.
Are they going to honestly help the Clearings, is that why they have double the price?
'That is a foolish thought sister.' Nathan invaded my mind.
'It was a fleeting thought.' I glared at him, 'I told you stay out of my mind.'
A thought that shouldn't have ever slip for them to notice. They are too nosey. It doesn't help I am used to them being in my mind I forget it isn't always my own.
Elliot sweet voice interjected, 'To be fair sister some of your thoughts are too loud to ignore.'
I rolled my eyes not to continue.
The Second Ring was called, same outcome. Again, their family paid their dues. The guy even pretended to be surprised as if he wanted to participate. He put his hands together as if thanking the Astray themselves for this moment. Showing off a bit of his gifts taking up a drink right out of another drink. Bringing it to his face drinking from the small spire. As if 'look I had a useful gift that I could had made it.'
None of that money comes to the Clearings, Nathan was right it was a very foolish thought even if it was just a fleeting one. If they did help, Mother wouldn't had died from cancer. We could have gotten someone gifted with life to help her. We would have someone here with the gift to heal the sick. The Rings wouldn't damn the river isolating us and taking away vital resources. The games wouldn't be continuing. We wouldn't be suffering.
Taking that thought out of my mind I focused on the screen. There came the girl of the Third Ring standing a few feet away from the guy. He smirked at her and she gently smiled back. The girl went to sit down before the guy. Mutters erupted as he stood there. He was Culled first, the first is the first on the stage is the first to leave the stage. His gaze going to a group that's off camera speaking.
Gillian muses, "Look at this beautiful family no longer needing to worry about being Culled again for that is their only Child. Only twelve years old has the rest of her life to look forward to…"
I whispered as he kept talking and we couldn't hear what the boy from the Third Rings were saying, "What's going on?"
There, where it had the thirty thousand on the screens, the screen turned red.
Gillian frowned walking across the stage putting his arm around the guy, "Oh my, my, my…" His eyes slid looking at something behind the camera. "Billy, it has been a long time since someone from the Rings represented in the Culling."
Billy, who looked to be a few years younger than I turned to his family, and now the camera is on them. His, I am assuming Father, smirked at the camera not caring he may never see his own son. He even rose his drink taking a sip as he leaned back.
"Fuck you!" Billy yelled snatching Gillian microphone, "I hope you choke on that cock you been sucking behind moms back."
Gasps filled the air. I choked on my own spit shocked he would air that dirty laundry. The man spat the drink, and the camera went back to the stage right as he was standing.
"Get away from me." Billy screamed at the Bulwark who guided him off stage. "Fuck, I am going, get the hell off."
"Well looks like they are going to have some discussions in that family after tonight. Ha-well lets go to the first Clearing and who gets Culled there."
Gillian just made this sound like it weren't a tragedy. As if a Father did not sign his own son death descendants. That face his made too, it was just a split second before rage filled him, but Billy had a look of fear.
"His daddy must been wanting to keep that a secret." Lucian laughed, "That Billy boy should be hoping for death. Anyone who's willing to bid on him will make his life a living hell."
I didn't look back at him. He speaks the truth, he should wish for death because his family is just blood and nothing more. Poor kid, I wonder what type of none relationship he had for this to be bestowed on him. The Astray should have mercy and allow him to pass peacefully.
Nathan replied in a dull tone, "Looks who's laughing on this morbid day now."
My brother on the other hand does enjoy a good argument.
"The people who live in the Rings deserve some suffering." Lucian patted Nathan shoulder, causing my brother to give a disgusting look. "You can't tell me you're not going to enjoy seeing him suffer. How much you want to bet he will cry day one?"
I stared at my friends bellow whispering to one another. I can't even sit with them when any of us could be Culled. Where their seats are touching one another. They have no room to move. Bulwarks staring into the crowd at them. Where ours isn't even facing us we are free as he faces the crowd.
I could easily stand and move behind it all. Allow there to be one distraction in the crowd. Just whispering wrong out there an up war can start. Then to disappear without notice especially if my brothers played their part right. I blinked burring that part far beneath it all.
I mutter, "You don't think the people below aren't thinking the same about us?"
Lucian tensed leaning toward to put his face near mine. Still touching my brother shoulder, he said. "You better not be comparing us to the Rings."
What a pain he is.
"Get your hand off of me." Nathen jerked his shoulder, "Touch me again and I will break your finger."
Over my shoulder I grinned ignoring my brother's comment, I stated, "Doesn't mean they think it's unfair us Chamber members having a few extra perks they don't."
"Big and mighty cause no Rose gets called." Lucian went to touch my shoulder next, and both of my brothers smacked his hand. Lucian hissed, "Damn Roses. You don't think it's because your dad is the head Chamber in our Clearing is why you all are safe?"
Nathan looked forward, "Our Father would never cheat. With that said disrespect our family again."
Elliot finished, "We will make sure yours crumbles."
I simply added whipping my shoulder, "No family is permanent in the Chambers, not even our won Father." Only my eyes drop as my smile stayed, "We must uphold certain aspects and if we can not then we have no rights to be the heads of the Clearings. I do hope your family will not disgrace our Clearing, Lucian."
I didn't hide my smile from Lucian when many would be backing away. He is known to have a temperament and lash out when provoked. I think he is too scared of my brothers gift to do much to us. When Elliot said we would make their family crumble, it isn't an empty threat, it means they already know a secret to ruin them. My words will put a bit of doubt that I even know what that may be. Doubt is a funny thing, when you allow it in your mind, it can take over, and before you know it you are destroyed by your own self.
I looked forward and they are already on the third Clearing. I found my brothers hand subconsciously as my heart tighten. My brothers wrapped their fingers around just a little tighter and I allowed the fog to invade my mind. It is going faster than normal. I want more time.
The girl who got Culled cried while being tossed over the Bulwark shoulder. She thrashed as you cant hear one sob from the crowd for her. They pan to the parents, and they watched with straight faces. Do not get close to even your blood. Maybe seeing Billy, the Rings do follow the same rules we do.
They went to the Forth, I kept my gaze on my friends below. They leaned into each other. Shuffling around wishing to be able to look behind where I sit. Please know I am watching you. My eyes trailed off looking within the crowd standing. The ones who have aged out. The earliest ones stood in the front showing their support.
There Olivias and my eyes caught. Her hands were balled into fists, and a rage is simmering inside of her. I kept her gaze and something about the twitching of her fist seemed familiar. My eyes open only slightly larger as it washed over me. I turned my gaze back up to the screen. The fist isn't rage, she feels something wrong is happening. Her gift from the Astray warns her of danger. Her hands tend to twitch when she senses it in the earliest form.
Steading my breath I try to force everything to be suffocated by my brothers fog.
Now the Fifth, their bodies tensed, the crowd became somber. We are to be Culled next. The fog of my brother's ability hummed in my mind. We will be Culled next.
I followed their paths, their waves, and to escape my own thoughts as they used me as a conductor for their gift. It's no longer weird following the path that is there, and for the most part I don't think they know I do this. If I am quiet sometimes I can hear them too. I enjoy not to. Just to be able to be quiet for moments. I am just used as a conductor so their abilities can flourish, and that is all they need to worry, not of me walking around between the fog.
Speaking to themselves words I can't hear, and the murmurs are there as they scan everyone's minds. No one would be the wiser. In the eyes of the outside my brothers must touch their gifts to work. Their skin must be together. If only they understood all they need is someone like me, for some sort of their skin touching another, and they can do their work. They have even been practicing with objects but for now it has to be a living thing.
Gillian joked, "Well she is a feisty one. Let's make sure she doesn't make a punch at me when she's on-stage next week. Now onto the Sixth Clearing, Dougles Rose, it is your turn."
I blinked, my vision coming from the darkness of my mind. My Father already stood in his spot between the two bowls.
Father smiled, "Gillian, the games will have their handful this year already. Let's see how we can add to the excitement."
Air swooped into the bowl of small, folded papers, now filled the air surrounding the Chamber members. They waited as they did a few flips in the air. My Father keeping his hand up but palm out for no mistake that he isn't hiding a paper. He stared at the camera in front, plucking a paper from the air.
Father always liked putting on a show for the Rings. He enjoy our names being in the mouths of many. In hopes they have a shred of humanity left in the Rings to help us before it gets too bad out here. To show we are not defenseless. If they enjoy watching us maybe they will help before we all perish. To show we are worth keeping around, even if it is only the Roses.
I sat up holding onto my brothers hands a little tighter. Without the other their gift doesn't work. Meaning if one gets Culled their mind reading won't do any good. They would be worthless in the Culling. They would be deemed giftless like myself. I don't think they would be able to handle being called these words.
Understanding two is one just in the womb, just how the Astray wanted it, but they wouldn't be given the chance to be Culled as one. They have two bodies. Two minds. That is enough to be Culled separately despite their gifts.
Father stared at the name on the paper. His expression shifted as his eyes glanced over at the name for a second time. He looked over at the head of the Helios family, one of the Four Chamber members. Closing his eyes he took a deep breath. My shoulders relaxed knowing my brother's name isn't on that paper.
Father declared, "Sean Helios, the third family of the Chamber members. You are Culled."
He sat on the other side of my brother Nathan. The Bulwark quickly came up the stairs and with the path given to walk he moved in front of us. With dignity Sean stood, a fourteen-year-old, if he is feeling fear he isn't letting it show. He stared with a stone face as he walked behind the Bulwark being taken off the platform.
He stood as tall as possible beside my Father. A boy trying to look like a man in face of a dark fate. If no one bids on him within the Ring, most definitely our Clearing will bring him home. He is giftless so no one should want him in the Rings, and that is only if he survives the year. He is a little skinny so hopefully he doesn't bulk up, and no one will deem him good for manual labor.
Now the folded papers flutter around for the opposite gender. Again, my Father reached out staring at the camera his smile darkening from before. A flicker of doubt within his eyes as he looks at his three children still in the game. No, only one child because my brothers are officially safe. I gave my Father a reassuring smile. It isn't his fault a Chamber member child was Culled. It is what the Astray had destined for him.
It hurts to pull your peoples name, which is even more harsh when it comes from the main Chamber. Majority of us get along well with one another knowing each other since birth. Maybe the others feel differently with how they are raised though. For us Roses we try to remember them. Sean is the second born, he has an older sister who is on stage sitting by May, and a little brother clinging onto their mom off to the side. He is only one year older than May's boy. They held off before having more children having vast age gaps. Nothing like our Family where we are not many years off from each other.
As the rest of the papers fell into the bowl my dad unfolded the paper.
"Illa…" He started but couldn't finish.
All color left his face as his gaze fell onto mine. His throat bob the name stuck there. His arm fell at his side unable to say the name aloud. Both my brothers gripped my hand too hard for me not to realize who name is on the paper.
'It's my time isn't it?' I asked through the link.
'No, no, no.' is all I heard from my brothers minds.
I waited there on the edge of my seat. The corners of my sight darkening waiting for my dad just to utter the name. Speak the name Father, it is only right. It is what must be done. We do not have the thirty thousand for my safety. Even if we did you couldn't use it without the Helios family being furious.
I grinned to him my teeth visible to see. Guiding him to utter the name that is causing the animals to act up around us. We know, but maybe the others haven't caught on yet. The words sounded only if it were an I name. Making every girl with the start, start panicking now.
Father leaned forward in a monotone voice his eyes half shut, "Ilaria Rose…My daughter you have been Culled."