Chapter 6: The Sisters Split Up

Our daughters remained in the laboratory for the first few years of their lives, undergoing daily tests and examinations to ensure there were no deformities and that they were developing as expected. Fortunately, they were all healthy and grew normally, each showing their unique traits as they matured.Though they were genetically different, the seven girls were like sisters, having been created together in the same artificial womb. Their bond was undeniable, and they shared an unspoken connection that grew stronger as time passed.When they turned three, we were allowed to bring them home. However, every weekend, the girls had to return to the laboratory for continued monitoring. It also allowed them to interact with each other, which the scientists insisted was essential for their development.At the age of seven, we were informed that the girls could no longer spend time together. "The girls could potentially influence each other's development, which would compromise the integrity of the experiment," Head Scientist Nathan explained. "Therefore, they are not allowed to see each other anymore.""What!?" Marysa was clearly upset by the news."So we can't take our daughters with us when we meet up?" Sakina lamented, disappointment heavy in her voice."For how long?" Leontien asked, clearly concerned."At least until they reach maturity," Nathan replied, his tone firm."This is ridiculous," Marysa sighed, frustration seeping into her voice."We should keep each other updated on the girls' growth every Friday evening," Ismene suggested, trying to find a way to stay connected."Good idea," Natsumi agreed, nodding in approval.At the time, I didn't fully understand why the scientists had made this decision. They seemed nervous when they shared the news with us, and I thought their anxiety was simply because they feared my reaction.However, I later learned that the girls had unknowingly formed a hierarchical system. Maeve, my daughter, and Benesha, Balela's daughter, had clashed over the authoritative position within the group. This division split the girls into two factions—one loyal to Maeve, the other to Benesha.Then, one day, something changed. Maeve, with her natural strength and determination, asserted control over the group. She crushed the rebellious spirit of her sisters and, through sheer will, took command of them all. It was clear that Maeve was now the leader, and the others, willingly or not, followed her.The scientists were deeply alarmed by this shift in the girls' behavior. They feared that if the girls lost their individuality and began acting as a singular collective, they could pose a serious threat to Dutch society—and potentially the entire world. With all Seven Deadly Sins functioning in unison, their power could be devastating.To make matters worse, the girls had apparently failed an important test given by the scientists. They had been told they could access every room in the laboratory, except for one at the very back. They were strictly forbidden from approaching the door, opening it, or entering the room. It reminded me of the forbidden tree in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve were warned not to touch or eat from it.But as they say, curiosity killed the cat.I don't know exactly how it happened, but the girls somehow found a way into that forbidden room. When they did, they discovered something they weren't meant to see. The knowledge they encountered in that room was unsettling, and I could see the unease in Maeve's eyes when she refused to speak about it."Mom," Maeve called to me one evening. "Yes, sweetie?" I responded, sensing something was off."Could you give me some alone time with my sisters? This may very well be the last time I see them," she said, her voice distant, as if weighed down by a hidden burden.Understanding her need for space, I agreed. My friends, the scientists, and I quietly left the room.The scientists suggested monitoring the girls through the security cameras, but we strongly opposed the idea. "We cannot do something so unethical," I firmly stated. "And you will delete the recordings of their conversation once they're done.""Yes, Your Majesty," the scientist replied with a bow.