The Number Slaves

Ty slowly shook his head. "...Not quite. Since you're new, you get to meet the boss," he said, frowning, his usually playful, nice tone now serious. "Do as he says. Listen to what he tells you."

The voice continued. "Three and Six. Help servants dust and catagorize the east library."
Sam sighed and stood up, heading out. Zack followed after him, whistling to himself. "Aye, library's not so bad. Too bad I have to do it with you," he joked, nudging Sam's elbow as they dissapeared into the halls.

"One."

Ty blinked, flashing a smile at Jenessa and then standing.

"You will be helping clean dishes," drawled the voice. Ty walked away towards the kitchens. The cafeteria just has Jenessa and Zero in it now, with a few servants milling about, cleaning the floors and tables.

Zero did not budge from his spot. He stayed where he was, arms folded in front of him, his dark eyes staring at a blank white wall.

Jenessa tugged at her collar, the nerves growing to fear she refused to show. "And me?" She called, unable to locate the source of the voice. Her eyes flickered to Zero, but didn't linger there long. Her burn; the knot on her head; being here in the first place. Those were all his fault. She hated him for it. If she could, she'd punch him. But we all know how /that'd/ work out.

The voice paused for a moment after Jenessa spoke. "Do not interrupt." It said sharply, a pang emanating from her collar and shivering through her body.
"Zero. Escort Eight to my office. That is all." Then the voice was done, the slight staticy noise from the speakers cutting off.


Zero slid off his chair and came over to her. He quickly looked her over to see what state she was in, like he tended to do with everyone he appraoched, his gaze careful, searching, yet guarded. He even held a hint of sadness in those eyes of his, but it was covered by his usual sternness. "Stand up," he ordered, his voice ringing with clarity through the nearly empty cafeteria.

Jenessa stared at him, cautious. She knew now that some battles were better left alone. Such this one. So she stood, tense. "...What does he want with me? You owe me answers."

Zero gave a small nod in approval once she stood, though his eyes flashed with a very subtle sign of dissaproval. "Hm," he thought. "She needs to be more stubborn. If we are going to escape, she will have to learn to defy the collar, and her superiors." Yes, he had ulterior motives. Though he seemed like the perfect superior, a very stiff, orderly young man unleashing punishment on those who defy him, what he truly wished for was a team of stubborn fools. Because only stubbornness could outdo his father. She needs a will to fight. He would have to work with her later...

"You will see when we get there. Start following, Eight." he said, turning away from her and heading out the door, the collar giving her a slight tug to motivate her to follow.

She gasped, grudgingly taking slow, drawn out steps toward. "My name's Jenessa. And that doesn't answer my question. Who is this guy? I swear, if I get knocked out again I'll-" Her threat dwindled off, unsure what she'd do. "I'll spit on you." Ha, yeah. That'll show em.

Zero slowed just a bit, letting her catch up. Once she did, he continued fast, lengthy strides through the castle's elaborate halls. His dark eyes flickered to her at the measly threat. "I wouldn't do that if I were you. And for now, all you need to do is shut up. You are annoying me."

She rolled her eyes. "Heaven forbid, right?" She muttered, glowering over the warped princibles. He can brand her, but she can't annoy him. Totally fair. She followed regardless, debating "accidently" stepping on his heel.

Zero did not reply to her, going silent as he led her through the castle. He would glance back at her now and then. After a moment he froze, suddenly stopping without warning in one of the darker hallways.

She slammed into him with an omph and craddled her branded arm. "Watch it!" She looked around the forboding hallway, her skin priking. "...Where'd everyone go?"