Seven

Lots of children have imaginary friends right? Most even. These friends are normally children as well and around the same age, but not Natalie's.

For as long as she can remember Natalie has had seven full grown men in various states of being (one holds his head by his side, another has a sword through his chest) have been following her. Helping and guiding her through her life (as well as annoying the crap out of her) when her distant mother cannot.

She has no idea where the seven came from, or why only she can see them, until the boy who lives next door comes to tell her she isn't crazy, but she won't like his explaination.