(S Fiction) Till We Have Faces (PG13), 07 Sept 2008 Options

[mezzogal]

Well, after a year's absence from the clone compound, I decided to take a plunge and get going with my latest story.

This story has 2 parts - Part One and Part Two. It follows somewhat the story in O2. This story may be different from the other two that I had previously posted. I guess it's a bit of the X-Men syndrome in terms of plot (referring to the movies. Ask me if you want to know more). So, crossing my fingers that it makes coherent sense.

ETA: I think I should try to give a quick synopsis of the story. Well, as I said before, it follows the happenings of O2, Irony's coming to the WMS, Leno's escape and the attack on the base. It is told mainly from the point of view of the clones and will follow the sequence of events through the eyes of whichever clone which is most important in the scene. Now, the premise behind the story is the same as the others - telling the story of those who do not have a voice to tell their own story, in keeping with the title "Till We Have Faces".

I'll update once a week, Sunday or Monday night. I hope you enjoy it.

Disclaimer: All happenings here are fictional.

Without further ado, let me present:

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Till We Have Faces

Part One

Chapter1: Blessed are the Persecuted

It was a beautiful summer's day. He was at the North Carolina mountains, just lazing the day away, the delicious feel of freedom, the sun shining and the cool wind on his skin. The wide open space was all his. There was no one around, no other person in sight. The only things punctuating the silence was the song of the birds and the rustling of leaves in the trees.

He soaked in the richness of the colours, the freshness of the air, the sweetness of the bird's song. He kicked off his shoes, savouring the touch of the soft cool grass between his toes, smelling in the sharp scent of the damp grass. And he walked. He wasn't going anywhere, nothing in mind. Just the sensation of doing whatever his heart's desire, whenever he wished to, or not to. Somehow, he had a sense of deja vu as he wandered. This feeling that he had been at this moment before. That it was distantly familiar, and yet, strange.

He walked on, unhindered and unhampered. But suddenly, the sky grew dark with heavy grey storm clouds gathering in the previously blue sky. Perhaps it would soon rain. He welcomed the thought of the raindrops falling on his arms and head. But, hearing the far off rumble of thunder and seeing the powerful crash of lightning, he was not so sure anymore. There was something distinctly ominous in the air.

He ran, hoping to find shelter, but the bareness of the mountains, a moment ago such a delight, now was a torture. He ran and ran but seemed to find no end to the emptiness. Then the raindrops began to fall. Large heavy drops pattering all around him and above the great orchestra of the heavens played their thunderous symphony. He saw figures all around him. Faces all alike, faces of himself. Many and yet one person.

He turned round and round but found no escape from these visions. There was no menace about them, but he feared them. They were not himself and yet they bore his face. They stood and watched him, closing in on him, their eyes mirroring his own expressions. An expression of plea and desperation. For mercy. For life.

~~

Wilder sat in his room in the WMS clone compound. He was happy with his life. But not entirely. Every so often, his mind would stray back to the part that was Clay Aiken. The man he used to be. Wilder was no ordinary clone. He wasn't a clone at all. He was the real thing. He used to think that he might never be able to let go of his past life. He missed his family and his friends. He missed his life.

It happened during his time at American Idol. After his failed Charlotte audition, he had been approached by a man. The man was so confident and sure of himself. He told Clay that he saw his potential, that a young man like himself shouldn't let himself be shackled by the binds of a mere TV show. Clay assumed he was a talent scout of some sort.

The man decided to take Clay under his wing, instructing him how to dress and do his hair properly. Clay didn't think it was very much use (his hair and style still looked as bad as when he tried to do it himself) but he trusted the man. He was so naive then. The man got more and more involved in Clay's climb to professional stardom. Clay never really knew exactly who he was, he was purposely evasive when it came to mundane matters such as his identity. It scared Clay a little. It was like knowing someone who didn't really exist. He had accidentally scratched Clay's hand when they shook hands whilst congratulating him on passing the Atlanta auditions. Clay was pleased when the man sort of dropped out of his life for a while.

For a while, Clay thought that he had not made it on American Idol, despite the Atlanta audition. He had not been called back for months. Then one day, he received a phone call telling him that he had made it onto the Wildcard show, that they wanted him back to try again. Clay was surprised. He had not watched the previous elimination round and definitely had not participated in it. And yet, when he remembered his friends calling him up and telling him how cool he was that he was on TV. He had assumed they meant the auditions. Clay searched for a copy of that episode and almost fainted when he saw himself singing Open Arms on TV. He did not remember singing that. Could he be going mad?

He went for the Wildcard show anyway and sang. On the result night, Clay had a shock when he slipped backstage for the bathroom and noticed the man hanging around again. He resolutely ignored him, wanting to concentrate on the Wildcard slot. Clay thought that he had been passed over again. There was one more slot and he hoped with all his might that it would be his. It was.

After the show Clay was alone backstage. “Psst..Clay...” he heard the man whisper.

“Oh hi, it's you.” Clay pretended that he had not noticed him before.

“Well, congrats! You've made it through to the top 12.” the man began. “And it's a good thing that you did. I've got big plans for you. We could take over the world together.”

Clay laughed. “Take over the world? Yeah right. You're kidding. That's a crazy idea.” There was a pause in which Clay suddenly felt a sense of imminent danger wash over him.

“You can laugh now Clay. But I'm telling you buddy, it can be done. I mean, look at you, you've got the talent. All you need is the know-how and I've got that. Think about it. All the glitz and glamour. The money and the adoration. The whole world at your feet. And we can do it. You and me.”

Clay was getting exasperated at this man's madness. “Wow mister, you actually sound convincing. So what exactly am I signing up for? How're you gonna engineer our taking over the world?”

“Listen up cos I'm only gonna tell you this once." He waited until Clay was giving him full and apt attention. "Clones.”

“Clones?”

“Yes. Clones. Of you. We've already tried out one prototype, you may have seen him, at the Open Arms performance. We've used the DNA from your hairs and your skin. There's already a clone for each of your appearances. The beginning of power. These clones, they can do for you what you wish to do if you did it yourself.”

“So why are you telling me this? If you've already done it. Which by the way, wasn't too good a 'clone'. I didn't even get through that round.”

The man looked a little sheepish. “Oh well, anomalies arise. That was only a prototype. Eventually, we'll be creating enhanced clones, clones with the power to charm the masses and make them love you. That's the key to peaceful domination. Brainwashing is so much easier.”

“But, clones, from what I read, they are different from their original because of different life experiences.” Clay was trying to stall time, knowing that this discussion would only lead to him making a grave decision on the state of his life.

“True. But we've found a way to minimise that. Every clone's been programmed with your memories up to the time when the DNA is harvested from you.”

“And what happens to the real me?”

“We'll keep you some place safe till it's time for you to take your rightful place.”

Clay hesitated again. “What do you mean by 'enhanced' clones?”

“I mean enhanced. We're trying to manipulate the chromosomes of one of the new clones. We want to try and trigger ESP powers. It'll be so much easier than a normal clone. With ESP, the audience won't know what hit them. The clone will be so attuned to what the audience want and we'll be able to influence the audience. Oh, don't worry that you owe them. They are really extensions of you. Kind of a magnification of certain facets of your personality that is best suited for the task. Put your best foot forward as it were.”

“I don't know mister. I don't think it sounds very ethical. And I didn't notice your asking my permission to do anything with my DNA.”

“Oh come come Clay. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Sometimes, someone else has to make that step for you.”

“You know what? I don't think I want to take that journey. I don't want to take over the world. I like my place here just fine. And if you're nuts if you think you want me to take part in some hare-brained fairy tale scheme.” Clay paused, seeing the man's absolutely serious expression, tinged with a bit of annoyance at his thickness. “You're not kidding...are you?” he asked slowly. Then anger seethed within him. “I'm not changing my mind! You want to do this, you're...you're going to have to kill me first cos I am not having any part in this.”

The man laughed sinisterly. “We don't need you. We already have you. Or, a clone of you. I gave you a chance but you didn't want it. The next clone we create is going to take your place. He's going to be enhanced to be the ultimate you. So you see, we don't need you. We've got your DNA already and the clone is enough for us to continue. Sure, fresh DNA is good but it's not the only source.”

Clay was shocked. “You'd never get away with it!” he exclaimed. “People will know something's wrong. You can't have multiple copies of the same person walking around all the time. It's too obvious. People are not stupid you know.” He was sounding desperate and he knew it.

The man laughed again. “Clay, Clay. Let me explain something to you. As with all evil villains, there are always those who think they're the good guys, doing the right thing and getting rid of the bad guy. There is an organisation called the WMS who is stepping right into the shoes of that character. They've been trying to capture you for a long time, ever since we first started letting the clones come on for appearances. They think they're you, you see. They want to destroy you because, Clay, you are the evil villain. You are the one trying to achieve world domination.”

Clay turned pale. A secret organisation was trying to kill him? Why? Suddenly his little place in the world was being turned upside down. He tried to back away but, in true movie style, he hit the far wall instead and was trapped. The man grabbed him by the arm. “So what's your choice Clay? Just think, you could have everything. You'll be safe and you'll have to the world. All we want is your cooperation and a little DNA.”

Clay was stunned. On the one hand was death, a death which would solve nothing and mean nothing. On the other was life but a life against his principles and his honour. Confused and frightened, he heard his mother's voice in his mind, telling him to stick up to his beliefs and stand firm. 'Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' Clay took a deep breath and firmly told the man to go to hell.

“So this is your decision. I'm sorry that you decided to forfeit our protection and force me to let them kill you. It's a pity really, you're such a nice young man.” The man dragged Clay down the now deserted corridor. He purposefully walked through the building and suddenly gave Clay a strong push forward causing him to lose balance fall heavily on the carpeted floor. Clay felt a sharp sting at his throat and all went black.

~~

All the time, Clay was afraid of being found out by the soldiers. The only thing he could do was pretend to be one of the clones. He was terrified that one day they would discover his deception and drag him out and torture him to death. He was filled with images of being hung by his thumbs and red hot coals at his feet. But time passed and nothing happened. Having been named "Wilder" by the Colonel in charge of clones, he had realised that the personnel didn't know who he really was.

Life at the WMS wasn't as bad as he thought. They treated their prisoners with respect and were kind to the clones. That was a great comfort to him after his initial terror at waking up and finding himself in the hands of the 'enemy'. They weren't the enemy, he knew that now. The man and his organisation, they were the enemy. He had lured a young, naive Clay to trust him and then betrayed that trust and imagined he threw him to the wolves.

Wilder had become close to the only other clone there, the one who did the Open Arms performance. At first, Clay was shocked to come face to face with someone who looked exactly like him. He also thought that the clone would behave like an android or some clone in Star Wars, that was 'programmed' to be just like him and behave like a carbon copy. He was prepared for a creepy sort of living mirror image of himself. But this clone was different. Apart from the similarities in physical appearance, the clone was an individual. He even had a name – Owen. And as more and more clones came in over the course of American Idol, Clay came to understand the clones, not just as extensions or copies of him. They were individuals with their own hopes and dreams and experiences.

Some nights, Wilder would fall asleep and dream of freedom, his life outside the compound. No matter what, the compound was a prison. He would dream, yearning for the mountains, wide open spaces, his family. But then, right at the moment when he was most savouring his freedom, the figures of the clones would begin appearing, a constant reminder. Clay was the Original and no matter what, he felt responsible for the clones. They never asked to be created and if it weren't for him, they wouldn't have been born into this miserable existence. His heart went out to these men who were so like him.

Truly, they were not just clones to him. Though they did not exist outside of the compound, they were his family, his brothers, his sons.

This post has been edited by mezzogal: Sep 8 2008, 06:12 PM

[dixiehellcat]

Oooh, this is gonna be good. (pops popcorn)

[Invisible Ink]

This looks very promising. And I see that Clay is already thinking of the other clones as brothers, his family. I wonder if that would give him some comfort ... knowing family was in the WMS compound...


A Most Excellent Chapter!

[PhillyluvsClay]

Bravo, Bravo, Bravo! *Claps!*

So, is this to a story of Clay's experiences at WMS?


Love Ya

Philly

[footloose]

you just can't wait to post it can ya?

anyway, will comment later

[mezzogal]

Wow. *Looks up in awe at the (relatively speaking) tidal wave of replies*

dixie:

ink: Yup. It makes things easier, knowing that the clones aren't just science fiction creatures, but family.

philly: No. But I wanted to start this off with Clay's story.

footsie: Hehe! No. Couldn't wait.

:

[Canadian bAiken]

He turned round and round but found no escape from these visions. There was no menace about them, but he feared them. They were not himself and yet they bore his face. They stood and watched him, closing in on him, their eyes mirroring his own expressions. An expression of plea and desperation. For mercy. For life.

He had not watched the previous elimination round and definitely had not participated in it. And yet, when he remembered his friends calling him up and telling him how cool he was that he was on TV. He had assumed they meant the auditions. Clay searched for a copy of that episode and almost fainted when he saw himself singing Open Arms on TV. He did not remember singing that. Could he be going mad?

I love this. Intriguing.

“Yes. Clones. Of you. We've already tried out one prototype, you may have seen him, at the Open Arms performance. We've used the DNA from your hairs and your skin. There's already a clone for each of your appearances. The beginning of power. These clones, they can do for you what you wish to do if you did it yourself.”

“So why are you telling me this? If you've already done it. Which by the way, wasn't too good a 'clone'. I didn't even get through that round.”

Love the guy's explanation to Clay about the clones.

The man laughed again. “Clay, Clay. Let me explain something to you. As with all evil villains, there are always those who think they're the good guys, doing the right thing and getting rid of the bad guy. There is an organisation called the WMS who is stepping right into the shoes of that character. They've been trying to capture you for a long time, ever since we first started letting the clones come on for appearances. They think they're you, you see. They want to destroy you because, Clay, you are the evil villain. You are the one trying to achieve world domination.”

And so it begins.

Confused and frightened, he heard his mother's voice in his mind, telling him to stick up to his beliefs and stand firm. 'Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' Clay took a deep breath and firmly told the man to go to hell.

I love this.

Some nights, Wilder would fall asleep and dream of freedom, his life outside the compound. No matter what, the compound was a prison. He would dream, yearning for the mountains, wide open spaces, his family. But then, right at the moment when he was most savouring his freedom, the figures of the clones would begin appearing, a constant reminder. Clay was the Original and no matter what, he felt responsible for the clones. They never asked to be created and if it weren't for him, they wouldn't have been born into this miserable existence. His heart went out to these men who were so like him.

So sad and true. No matter how wonderful a cage is, it's still a cage [TM Leno, O2].

Truly, they were not just clones to him. Though they did not exist outside of the compound, they were his family, his brothers, his sons.

I'm so glad you are writing a clone story again, Mezz. I was missing the S Universe and anxious to see more. Can't wait to see where you'll take this one. And I LOVE the title.

Sorry. Couldn't help dancin just a wee bit.

[footloose]

Wow. *Looks up in awe at the (relatively speaking) tidal wave of replies*

well...looks like clone stories generate more enthusiasm for some reason

It is told mainly from the point of view of the clones and will follow the sequence of events through the eyes of whichever clone which is most important in the scene. Now, the premise behind the story is the same as the others - telling the story of those who do not have a voice to tell their own story, in keeping with the title "Till We Have Faces".

sounds very interesting

i love the description of Wilder/Clay's dream. very beautiful and with so many layers of meaning. did he get this dream when he was already in WMS or before he was captured by them? Where did he experience that familiar feeling before?

He turned round and round but found no escape from these visions. There was no menace about them, but he feared them. They were not himself and yet they bore his face. They stood and watched him, closing in on him, their eyes mirroring his own expressions. An expression of plea and desperation. For mercy. For life.

we never really know what Clay/Wilder feels about the clones the very first time he meets them, so this is interesting. and i think it's very realistic for him to fear them, even if they don't mean harm. the idea of clones is freaky...which shows how crazy we are, i guess .

Wilder sat in his room in the WMS clone compound. He was happy with his life. But not entirely. Every so often, his mind would stray back to the part that was Clay Aiken. The man he used to be. Wilder was no ordinary clone. He wasn't a clone at all. He was the real thing. He used to think that he might never be able to let go of his past life. He missed his family and his friends. He missed his life.

poor Clay. understandable...to have your life robbed from you and to see myriads of clones taking your place.

For a while, Clay thought that he had not made it on American Idol, despite the Atlanta audition. He had not been called back for months. Then one day, he received a phone call telling him that he had made it onto the Wildcard show, that they wanted him back to try again. Clay was surprised. He had not watched the previous elimination round and definitely had not participated in it. And yet, when he remembered his friends calling him up and telling him how cool he was that he was on TV. He had assumed they meant the auditions. Clay searched for a copy of that episode and almost fainted when he saw himself singing Open Arms on TV. He did not remember singing that. Could he be going mad?

some more questions: does this mean he last performed in the Atlanta audition? if so, who did the Hollywood rounds?

I would've investigated if i were him, but he probably thought he was crazy and no one would believe him.

“So why are you telling me this? If you've already done it. Which by the way, wasn't too good a 'clone'. I didn't even get through that round.”

The man looked a little sheepish.

the man obviously doesn't sound too threatening. Wondering if he's just an ordinary man hired by Alclayda or the DOLs or whoever is behind this.

some more questions: why the man is so frank to Clay about their plans? What if he escapes and reports to the authority? Also, how the WMS knows he's planning the world domination when he only sang a few times?

The man laughed sinisterly. “We don't need you. We already have you. Or, a clone of you. I gave you a chance but you didn't want it. The next clone we create is going to take your place. He's going to be enhanced to be the ultimate you. So you see, we don't need you. We've got your DNA already and the clone is enough for us to continue. Sure, fresh DNA is good but it's not the only source.”

if he doesn't need him, why he's telling him all these?

Clay was stunned. On the one hand was death, a death which would solve nothing and mean nothing. On the other was life but a life against his principles and his honour. Confused and frightened, he heard his mother's voice in his mind, telling him to stick up to his beliefs and stand firm. 'Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.' Clay took a deep breath and firmly told the man to go to hell.

i love how he stands his ground even in the face of death.

Some nights, Wilder would fall asleep and dream of freedom, his life outside the compound. No matter what, the compound was a prison. He would dream, yearning for the mountains, wide open spaces, his family. But then, right at the moment when he was most savouring his freedom, the figures of the clones would begin appearing, a constant reminder.

ah this explains the dream.

Clay was the Original and no matter what, he felt responsible for the clones. They never asked to be created and if it weren't for him, they wouldn't have been born into this miserable existence. His heart went out to these men who were so like him.

Truly, they were not just clones to him. Though they did not exist outside of the compound, they were his family, his brothers, his sons.

love the whole thing. it must not be easy for him to accept that reality.

agree with Ink, mezz ...most excellent chapter!

[mezzogal]

ok. here come the two long posters.

cba: hmm...nothing much to comment on for you. glad you liked it.

footloose:

i love the description of Wilder/Clay's dream. very beautiful and with so many layers of meaning. did he get this dream when he was already in WMS or before he was captured by them? Where did he experience that familiar feeling before?

He was already in WMS when he had this dream. Can't really explain the deja vu. That phenomenon in itself is strange. Have you ever had dreams where you're in a place and you feel like you know it, even though you don't?

we never really know what Clay/Wilder feels about the clones the very first time he meets them, so this is interesting. and i think it's very realistic for him to fear them, even if they don't mean harm. the idea of clones is freaky...which shows how crazy we are, i guess lol.gif.

Yeah. It is freaky to suddenly see so many copies of yourself walking around. Haha! Yeah. We all are a little crazy. This clone universe is so alive in our minds.

poor Clay. frown.gif understandable...to have your life robbed from you and to see myriads of clones taking your place.

Yeah. It's more about him suddenly being ripped away from the real world and transferred to this place.

some more questions: does this mean he last performed in the Atlanta audition? if so, who did the Hollywood rounds?

Hmm...I didn't think about that. But yes, he performed in Atlanta. Hollywood...maybe it's another clone(s)?

the man obviously doesn't sound too threatening. Wondering if he's just an ordinary man hired by Alclayda or the DOLs or whoever is behind this.

some more questions: why the man is so frank to Clay about their plans? What if he escapes and reports to the authority? Also, how the WMS knows he's planning the world domination when he only sang a few times?

First question. He's likely hired help. He's not high enough to be in charge, but he's obviously high up enough to know what's happening. Then...he doesn't see Clay as a threat, that's why he tells all. After all, even if Clay escapes, Clay doesn't know this man's identity, nor will his story sound plausible to the police. As for the last question, *points to the clone queens* Haha! Ok, um...I guess WMS existed concurrently as the Facility and they've got their ways of surveillance.

It's not that they don't need Clay. He's a bonus. If they can get him, it's good, but if they can't, well, turn to Plan B. Like he said, fresh DNA is always best, but if not, then they can always use cloned DNA.

Phew *looks up* Thanks for all the questions. Got me thinking.

[mezzogal]

Chapter2: I've Deceived You All

“Fin? What're you doing here?” Timothy exclaimed excitedly when he saw her sitting behind the secretary's desk in Colonel Kav's office. He was passing with Wilder, on their way outside.

“Kav wants me to work for her now that Raey's left.” Fin explained, getting up and giving Timothy a hug. “You could say I've taken over Raey's position. You don't mind do you?”

“Mind?! Are you kidding me? I'm absolutely thrilled!” Timothy looked exactly that way.

“He is thrilled.” Wilder injected. “Lover boy here gets to see his girlfriend more often now.” Timothy blushed and gave Wilder a dig in the ribs. “Come on Tim! It's so true.”

“What are you doing here anyway?” Fin asked in return. “You're not in trouble again are you? Either one of you can answer that.”

Timothy giggled. “Am I such a trouble maker?”

“Actually, Kav asked me to come see her.” Wilder said. “Tim just offered to accompany me here. And I think I might be in trouble. Why else would I be summoned?”

“I don't know. But I got the impression the generals wanted to ask you some questions.” Fin explained. “Kav didn't really tell me much about it. She just said that she wanted to call you up.”

“You'll be fine.” Timothy assured him. “I'm sure it's nothing serious.” Wilder looked anxious. He looked like a child who's bluff had been called. He fidgeted, shifting his weight from one foot to the next. He nodded and proceeded to knock at the Colonel's door.

Wilder was brought to the main compound and led to the infirmary where they subjected him to all kinds of tests. Routine physical tests were done but they also drew blood and did a brain scan. They didn't tell Wilder what it was for and when he asked, they just said that they needed to check something and that there was nothing to worry about.

He wanted very much to believe them. Dr Nat and Colonel Kav had been nothing but kind to him. But now they were looking at him with different eyes. Wilder could sense it. He was afraid, afraid that they had finally found out who he really was. After all, why was he the only one singled out for these strange tests. Fin was probably right. He was in trouble again.

Dr Nat told him to go to the waiting area whilst the test results were analysed. Wilder obeyed her. He was too nervous even to smile at the new soldier working at the pharmacy. He sat and chewed his finger nails.

“Why do you clones keep doing that?” the new pharmacist asked curiously.

“Huh?” Wilder looked up at her, not comprehending what she was saying.

“The nails. Why do you all keep biting them?”

“I don't know.” Wilder honestly replied, looking at his ragged nails in amazement.

“Have you been here long?”

“Yes quite long.”

“What's your name?”

“Wilder.”

The pharmacist noticed that he was giving shorter and shorter answers, not bothering to try to make conversation. She saw he was anxious about something. But he just clammed up when she tried to talk to him. Nothing like the dangerous clones she had been warned about. So she just left him alone.

Then the Colonel called him back in. Bringing him into the doctor's office, Kav closed the door and asked Wilder to sit. She and Dr Nat were both wearing extremely serious expressions.

“Wilder, I need you to be absolutely truthful with me now.” Kav began. “You don't have to be frightened of the consequences. Nothing will happen to you because of your answers.”

“Yes, ma'am.” Wilder stammered.

“I'm sure you'd appreciate if I cut to the chase. Wilder, are you a clone?”

Wilder was stunned. They had finally found out. For a moment, he was silent, unable to speak. But at the sight of Kav's and Nat's sympathetic faces, he replied softly, “No, I'm not.”

“Are you Alclayda?”

“No.” Wilder's voice dropped a few more decibels. They knew he was speaking the truth.

“Then, who are you?”

Wilder hesitated. His lips moved soundlessly and his face was pale and absolutely petrified. He knew what they all thought of him here. Kav waited patiently. Wilder screwed up his courage, 'Enough of this hiding.' he though. “My name is Clay Aiken.”

Kav gasped in surprise but Nat only nodded. It made sense to her, especially after doing DNA testing. “I thought so. Cloning, despite all impressions, is not a foolproof process. Differences will occur. We've found that the DNA sample we drew from you is different from that of the other clones. As in, yours is unique. Also, your blood doesn't contain the growth hormone that the other clones have.”

“Inspector WalkingGhost discovered your identity when she experienced a prolonged out of body period but she thought you were Alclayda.” Kav informed him. “We are not happy with your deception Wilder - Clay. Did you know that you could have helped us?”

“I'm sorry Colonel.” Wilder apologised in a choked voice. “They told me you would kill me.” He looked to Nat with a terrified expression in his eyes. “They said that you were looking for me, that I was the bad guy. How could I have trusted you enough to become your ally?”

“Ah, so you were fed the same story that the clones were.” Nat commiserated. “I understand your hesitation now.”

“Are you going to kill me now? I've lied to you all this time. I've been more a hindrance than a help and I know next to nothing about Alclayda and his plans. I've never met him before I was betrayed. My news is months too late.” Wilder was agitatedly wringing his hands, fidgeting and playing with his shirt.

“Be still Wilder.” Nat said, reaching out and placing her hand on his back. “We've said before, nothing is going to happen to you. You're safe here. No one's going to kill you here.”

“You'll have to appear for questioning I'm afraid.” Kav interjected. “We have to hear your story and decide what's the next step for you.” Wilder swallowed heavily and nodded in agreement. It was the natural next step for the generals to do. He allowed Kav to place a pair of handcuffs to his wrists and to lead him out of the infirmary to the conference room in the admin block. The room was already filled with people - high ranking officers, even the two WMS commanders. Wilder was beginning to feel uncomfortable, as if he was on trial. He was surprised that they privileged him enough to let him listen to what they were discussing - about clones with psychic powers and how these powers had been triggered off, that a War was coming. He hardly heard when Commander Gwynhwyfyr presented him with his options, two choices for him which weren't really choices at all. The first was to let him go home, back to real life but essentially under house arrest, guarded by a WMS security for his own protection, for Alclayda believed him dead and if finding out that Clay wasn't really dead, would go to all lengths to silence him. The second option was for him to remain where he was, in the WMS clone compound, remaining a 'clone' out of Alclayda's reach.

Wilder considered these two options. His heart yearned for the first. He wanted to go home. He missed his home and his family, the feeling of freedom and a 'normal' life. Home seemed lifetimes away and here was a choice that would allow him to go home. Sure, there were limitations to his going home but he felt that it would probably be worth it, if only for the chance to be with his family again. However, Wilder thought practically. It was not feasible for him to go home and continue living as though in prison. The WMS security force would be guarding him all the time. How would that feel? And how would his family feel if he suddenly appeared again with his tale of clones and what if they found out that someone else (not him) had been with them all these months? They would be suspicious. What if their suspicions aroused someone else's suspicions? What if...?

Finally Wilder looked up at the room. "I'd like to stay here until Alclayda is caught. As much as I'd love to go home, I know that it's best that I don't, for the safety of my family and for the safety of whoever might be sent to guard me if I returned. It's not worth arousing Alclayda's suspicions and it's best to let things be until he is caught and I can resume my place in life and undo the wrongs Alclayda has done."

The officers looked impressed at his decision and one of the commanders actually saluted him. Wilder blushed at this. He didn't think he was all that important and his decision wasn't monumentally groundbreaking. There was no need for this sort of reaction. He lowered his eyes and listened in silence to the chilling tale that WalkingGhost was telling about her examination of Leno and the strengthening of all their psychic powers. "...There will be no problem with the clones. Dr Nat and I have discovered that my powers far exceed theirs and is growing stronger. I'm still discovering the full extent of my abilities. Yesterday we were working with Leno in the lab and he tried to choke me. Dr Nat was panicking but I remembered that I had managed to push him out of Cba's mind during her CPT with him. I tried that again but this time, I squeezed his mind a little and he almost lost consciousness." She paused, expecting a reaction. None was forthcoming and she said, "I almost killed him with my mind."

There was a stunned silence in the room at this pronouncement. Wilder felt sick. How much power must there be in someone who could kill with a single thought? Which clone could stand against her if even the powerful Leno could not? WalkingGhost must have picked up on his fears for she blurted out, "I would never do that to any of you. Or anyone. Not on purpose nor by accident. I swear!" She was almost in tears when she declared that. Wilder bit his lip, wishing he had the courage to reassure her that he believed her. It was his fault, he felt, for if he had been stronger before, perhaps all this would not have happened. No one would have to be sacrificed for his sake, because of his deception. But the other officers were quick to assure WalkingGhost that they knew she would never do such a thing.

The meeting went on for a while more with some good news - the formation of the Ghost Ops comprising WalkingGhost, Cba and Fantasy. Wilder was overjoyed that one of his friends, one of the clones, had been privileged to have such a high position placed on him. No clone had ever risen so high. It was a step towards acceptance and what he hoped would be more freedom for the clones in future. As the meeting was dismissed and Kav brought him back to the clone compound, Wilder walked with a bounce of happiness in his steps. There was no more need for deception and things had the potential to get better from here on in.

[footloose]

since i have time now...

“You could say I've taken over Raey's position. You don't mind do you?”

goodness me she really doesn't have a clue of how he feels for her does she? *pulling hair in frustration*

uh-oh. looks like they already know who Wilder is.

interesting character that pharmacist. she sounds more like a facility staff than a WMS member (indifferent, calling them 'clones', etc). maybe she's one of those civilians they hired.

the interrogation scene is also interesting. much more serious than in O universe, with the handcuffs and hearing.

Finally Wilder looked up at the room. "I'd like to stay here until Alclayda is caught. As much as I'd love to go home, I know that it's best that I don't, for the safety of my family and for the safety of whoever might be sent to guard me if I returned. It's not worth arousing Alclayda's suspicions and it's best to let things be until he is caught and I can resume my place in life and undo the wrongs Alclayda has done."

The officers looked impressed at his decision and one of the commanders actually saluted him. Wilder blushed at this.

love his selflessness and his humility. it must've been horrible for him to be separated from his family for that long but he puts the safety of the clones before his own.

The meeting went on for a while more with some good news - the formation of the Ghost Ops comprising WalkingGhost, Cba and Fantasy. Wilder was overjoyed that one of his friends, one of the clones, had been privileged to have such a high position placed on him. No clone had ever risen so high. It was a step towards acceptance and what he hoped would be more freedom for the clones in future. As the meeting was dismissed and Kav brought him back to the clone compound, Wilder walked with a bounce of happiness in his steps. There was no more need for deception and things had the potential to get better from here on in.

very uplifting passage. I'm so happy Wilder considers the clones to be his own brothers

very nice chapter mezz.

[Canadian bAiken]

One of the things that's so cool about this universe being so close and yet so different from the other two, is that even though I think I recognize a moment in the story from before, I never really know what's going to happen this time. I also finding myself hoping it turns out much darker than rest, too, because it satisfies my need to see the darker side of things. The S universe is a bit like the darker Mirror Universe in Star Trek. If you're not a fan, I apologize for not making sense, but it's a compliment.

I love the exchange where he finally admits to them who he really is. His honesty, hopefully, will pay off.

The WMS security force would be guarding him all the time. How would that feel? And how would his family feel if he suddenly appeared again with his tale of clones and what if they found out that someone else (not him) had been with them all these months? They would be suspicious. What if their suspicions aroused someone else's suspicions? What if...?

Very reasonable questions, and it shows how he puts his family's needs above his own wishes.

I admit I was a little worried that Clay would receive some kind of consequences to his deception. If not punishment, then maybe detention of some sort, but it's nice to know that even though this universe is a darker place, compassion still reigns in the hearts of those at the WMS.

Cool chapter, Mezz. You had me worried for a moment, but that's what's so fun about reading your 'S' universe stuff.

[footloose]

it's nice to know that even though this universe is a darker place, compassion still reigns in the hearts of those at the WMS.

yeah that

[mezzogal]

goodness me she really doesn't have a clue of how he feels for her does she? *pulling hair in frustration*

She does. She's just teasing him here.

interesting character that pharmacist. she sounds more like a facility staff than a WMS member (indifferent, calling them 'clones', etc). maybe she's one of those civilians they hired.

No. She's not a civilian. But she's new. Maybe that's why. She hasn't got enough contact with the clones yet, not sure how to act around them. You know?

I also finding myself hoping it turns out much darker than rest, too, because it satisfies my need to see the darker side of things. The S universe is a bit like the darker Mirror Universe in Star Trek. If you're not a fan, I apologize for not making sense, but it's a compliment.

Lol! I find this very amusing. Cos I never thought to see people liking dark stuff like this.

I admit I was a little worried that Clay would receive some kind of consequences to his deception. If not punishment, then maybe detention of some sort, but it's nice to know that even though this universe is a darker place, compassion still reigns in the hearts of those at the WMS.

Yeah.

[mezzogal]

Chapter3: The Voices in My Head

Timothy had been overjoyed when he discovered that Fin was working under Kav in the clone compound. He was glad in a way, and also thankful to Kav. He had no idea if she did it on purpose, requesting Fin to come in to assist her. Almost three quarters of the civilian personnel on the base had left by now and their positions being taken up by the soldiers, some new recruits. This move was probably the clearest indication of the changing atmosphere of the base. It wasn't all fun and games anymore. This was serious and outside the walls of the WMS, things were being set in motion that the clones could not even imagine. Their peaceful world was about to be interrupted. But things didn't change overnight. Things still went on as normal and lives were lived as though nothing happened.

"What're you doing here again Tim?" Fin asked after Timothy appeared at her desk for the fourth day in a row. The first day he claimed to have been accompanying Wilder who had been summoned by Kav. The second day he reported that something had broken in the rec room and needed fixing. The third day he 'just happened to be going by'. Today he was here yet again and Fin wondered what excuse he would have this time.


"Owen says he needs some supplies from QM and would like to check with her when she can slot in an appointment for him to drop by to get what stuff he needs." Timothy delivered the message, taking the opportunity to seat himself on the edge of the desk, closer to Fin. Fin looked up at him and his earnest face and couldn't help smiling at his boundless enthusiasm.

"Right..." Fin replied, not entirely believing what he said. "Well, tell Owen that he can email QM and ask her directly for what he needs. There's no need to go through Colonel Kav. QM would inform Kav if she has an appointment with any of the clones." Timothy grinned widely. Fin wasn't sure if he purposely positioned himself just right, but where he was seated with his back to the sunlit window, he looked like he was glowing. She couldn't help staring at him. She hadn't taken a good look at him for a while now.

"Liking what you see?" Timothy asked as he observed her staring at him. He had picked up some tips from the more playboy kinds of clones and they had taught him some tricks to flirt with women. He winked flirtatiously at her as he asked this. Fin blushed at being caught staring unabashedly at him. After knowing him and working with so many of the clones for so long, she was still unused to their charm and influence. The clones were created to seduce, to charm and win people over to Alclayda in his plan for world domination. Timothy was created for this purpose, so that people would vote for him, to make Clay Aiken the American Idol. However, no one knew why the plan seemed not to have worked, that Ruben Studdard had won instead. After long debate and discussion, the clones had reached the speculative conclusion that it was a technological fault with the voting system that gave Ruben the win. The three clones who had performed for the American Idol Finale were glad that they did not fall back into Alclayda's hands for he would surely have killed them for failing in their purpose to win the title.

But that was ages ago and the clones, almost as a rule, didn't think about their life before coming to the WMS. Timothy never talked about his past in the facility, not even when Fin had asked him point blank about it. It was, as he said, literally a different lifetime to now. He liked to live in the present and occasionally in the future in flights of fantasy.

Having delivered his message and stayed to chat for a few minutes, Timothy slid off the desk and to his feet. "I'll see you around Fin." he said as he gave her a quick peck on the cheek. He smelt beautifully and his hand was so tender where he touched her back when he leaned over her.

"Tim," Fin began when he stood upright to leave. "I have my lunch break at one tomorrow and I usually eat by myself in the office. But, why don't I meet you somewhere and we could have lunch together? Then you won't have to play at being errand boy and thinking up lame excuses to come by the office just to see me."

She fully expected him to deny everything and insist that he wasn't playing and really had things to do when he came to the office everyday. But instead, Timothy blushed to the tips of his ears, embarrassed at having his cover called. "Um...I...I'll see you here tomorrow then." He grinned shyly. The situation felt like Clay's memories of high school, how it felt to ask a girl out on a date.

"Great. I'll see you then Tim." Fin got up and walked with him to the office door. She gave him a hug before she sent him back to his quarters, smiling as she watched the black suited figure disappear down the hall.

~~

'I've got a date with Fin. I've got a date with Fin.' Timothy thought happily to himself when he woke the next morning. 'I got a date with Fin.' He felt lightheaded and strangely open as he thought about it. He hopped out of bed and began the process of cleaning his apartment, on the off chance that he might want to bring her back after they were done eating in the cafeteria, or that she would want to eat lunch here instead. There was an unusual buzz in his head as he cleaned, as if someone had turned a radio or TV on to a channel with constant white noise. However, he didn't think twice about it, having more important things in his mind.

Timothy dressed in his best suit and went to catch the elevator down to the cafeteria for breakfast. "Morning Tim!" Calvin greeted as Timothy entered the elevator with him. "Don't you look sharp today."

"Thanks Cal." Timothy replied, feeling pleased with the compliment from the well dressed clone.

"Hot date?"

"I wish. But no. Just lunch with Fin."

"The girl working for Kav now?" Calvin asked. "Good one bro. She's hot."

"Oh I don't know about hot. She's nice enough." Timothy laughed. Playboy clones like Calvin always looked at the physical before everything else.

Spot on your shoe Timmy ole boy.

Timothy looked down at his shoe. Sure enough, there was a dull spot on one of his shoes. He raised his foot, rubbing it against the back of his calf for an impromptu shine. "Thanks Cal." he said as he did so.

"For what?" Calvin turned to Timothy in surprise.

"My shoe. Thanks for telling me there's a spot." Timothy explained.

Calvin looked confused. "I don't know what you mean bro. I didn't say anything about your shoe."

"You didn't?"

Calvin shook his head. "I was thinking it. But I don't recall saying it out loud."

"Oh. Strange. I could've sworn you said it." Timothy said thoughtfully. Then he shrugged. "Maybe it's just my subconscious."

They didn't talk too much as they entered the cafeteria for breakfast. It was crowded with clones and seemed noisier than usual, although there seemed to be no discernible reason for extra noise this morning. Timothy joined the queue where Will was helping with the food preparation.

"Morning Will! What's cookin'?" Timothy greeted cheerfully.

"Hey Tim!" Will greeted back, putting together a plate of food from the various platters before him and presenting it to Timothy. "You'll have to speak up. It's a little chaotic in here today."

"Yeah I noticed. Wonder why." Timothy raised his voice in reply.

I think I'll do crayfish casserole for lunch.

"Aw man! Don't cook crayfish. You know your recipe doesn't sit well for a few hours." Timothy commented disapprovingly. And your recipe just plain sucks.

"No need to be rude about my crayfish casserole." Will indignantly told him. "I don't see you offering suggestions for lunch. Who told you I was thinking of making crayfish anyway?"

Timothy looked surprised. Didn't you just tell me? he thought.

"I didn't tell you a single thing about lunch." Will declared. "Geez Tim, why're you acting so strange today?" Timothy just stared at him, still unable to figure it out. In the end, he just took his breakfast and went to find an empty seat. He located one at the table where Owen and Wilder - no, Clay - were seated. Wilder had told the clones who he was, the day that the officers summoned him. He felt that they had the right to know his true identity and sincerely hoped that they would forgive him for being unable to prevent the kinds of things Alclayda did which made all their lives miserable and hidden. The clones took the news remarkably well. They all knew Wilder and knew that he was not the bad guy but a victim in this, much like themselves.

Timothy joined him and Owen at their table where they were halfway through breakfast and talking about the latest episode in a TV drama they watched the night before. "It sure is noisy in here today." Timothy commented during a lull in their conversation, raising his voice to be heard above the din.

Owen looked astonished. "It's not that noisy."

Timothy frowned a little. He barely heard what Owen said. "Yeah it is."

Wilder too seemed concerned. "Tim, it's really not noisy."

"Then how come I'm hearing so many voices?" Timothy asked.

"I don't know." Owen told him. Then he suggested, "But everyone seems to be talking louder than usual today and we can't figure out why either. We can't all be going deaf at once."

"You know, it's really strange but I was talking to Cal and Will today and, well, they swore they weren't saying anything but I swear I heard them loud and clear." Timothy told them. "Am I going nuts? That I'm hearing things other people don't?"

"Maybe you're reading their mind." Owen suggested laughingly. Timothy laughed too at this absurd idea, sounding like something straight out of the X-Men.

Wilder however, was serious. He motioned to Owen and Timothy to lean in and he revealed to them, "The other day, I was in a meeting with the generals and they thinking WalkingGhost may have triggered off psychic abilities in the clones when she touched their minds while scanning for me."

The two clones laughed again in disbelief. "Come on Wilder." Timothy ribbed. "You really think hundreds of clones could develop telepathy just like that? It's impossible. Besides, we're clones of you. You don't have psychic ability, do you?" Owen nodded in agreement. It just sounded too much like something of science fiction. Cloning was one thing - orthodox science proved that it was possible. But creating telepathy? Not possible. Unheard of. Stuff of fantasies. Wilder just sighed and did not pursue his point, letting it slide away into the random jumble of conversation surrounding them.

~~

Fin was waiting when Timothy showed up at the office to fetch her for lunch. She looked happy to see him and he was glad of that. "Busy morning?" he asked conversationally as he led her towards the cafeteria. The hum of voices in his head had not subsided and he was seriously wondering if he was going crazy, or if Wilder was right.

"Not really. Some paperwork. Dr Nat wants some clones to assist her with something at the hospital. The Colonel was selecting a random sample and wanting me to inform them after filling in the proper forms."

"What's that about?" Timothy asked. It smacked too much of the experimentation he had heard about that went on in Alclayda's facility. Surely the WMS weren't cruel enough to do that to them.

"I don't know." Fin said apologetically. "It was just that - assisting Dr Nat in some tests. Details to be given."

"I don't like it." Timothy said. "It doesn't sound right. It makes us sound like lab rats."

Fin laughed. "Well I'm sure the WMS respects you more than to think of you as lab rats." She slipped her hand into Timothy's, his hand was so warm. "Don't worry about it. Dr Nat would never hurt any one of you and you know that."

Timothy did know it. For almost all of them, Dr Nat was the first WMS staff they interacted with and over the months they had lived here, Dr Nat had been nothing but kind to them all. Timothy remembered Dr Nat's kindness in the way she had cleaned them all up after they fell out of a tree. The clones trusted her with their bodies and this was the highest level of trust they could give.

Entering the cafeteria, the sight of Fin with Timothy drew many an envious glance in their direction. While the rest of them had to sneak around just to be with their soldier girlfriends, here was Timothy brazenly parading the fact that Fin was with him. Not inclined towards petty jealousies however, the clones welcomed Fin to their company and complimented Timothy on his good luck in snagging such a date.

Halfway through lunch - crayfish stew with fresh toasted bread, much better than the original crayfish casserole - Timothy thought about Wilder's comment that the clones were developing psychic abilities. This comment, coupled with the knowledge that Dr Nat wanted some of them to 'assist' her, confirmed the theory that something was Happening. However, now that Fin was engrossed in her stew, Timothy decided to try an experiment of his own. Given that what had happened to him that morning, and given that the clones may be developing telepathy, Timothy wanted to try to project something into Fin's mind. He thought of some stuff that would be sure to induce a reaction in her.

Hey baby. You wanna come back to my apartment and do strange things together?

Timothy blushed when he thought about that line but he decided to use it anyway. He could always deny it later on and Fin wouldn't know it was him. He hoped and concentrated on Fin and projected the thought out.

"Oh my god Tim! What kind of a sick pervert are you??" Darin yelled over to him. He was sitting behind Fin. Fin turned to look at Darin in amazement and Timothy took a moment to inwardly groan to himself and make gestures telling Darin to shut up. He knew Darin would tell the entire story, that he heard Timothy saying that kind of sick line. When Fin turned back to him after Darin grinned conspiratorially at her, he presented what he hoped was his most innocent look, pretending that nothing had happened. Fin stared at him with raised eyebrow, a confused smile playing over her face.

"Ok, what was that about?" She asked.

"Honestly Fin, I have no idea." Timothy replied as innocently as he could. "Darin must be hearing things." Inside, he was both kicking himself over his goof and rejoicing that Wilder was right. The clones were developing telepathy. He had just proved it.

[Invisible Ink]

Does this mean Darin knew about the telepathy? He thought it and Tim picked it up? Then Darin said that "pervert" crack out loud?? Ohmigosh! This is going to be very interesting!

AND it was a VERY good chapter, Mezz! You need to tell Tim to not listen tooooo closely to the playboy clones!


ETA: I don't think Darin HAS an innocent look!

This post has been edited by Invisible Ink: Mar 16 2008, 09:28 PM

[footloose]

Ink, i think you get mixed up a bit. Tim thought about the line and Darin picked it up, and then Fin looked back at Tim after Darin grinned conspiratorially at her and Tim tried to put on an innocent face.

anyway, very interesting chapter. We don't get to see the clones' first reactions to their power so this is vera, vera nice (tm French taunter). oh, and glad to see a brief glimpse of my boy too .

will comment more later

ETA: here goes!

"What're you doing here again Tim?" Fin asked after Timothy appeared at her desk for the fourth day in a row.

your female protagonists are all clueless

She couldn't help staring at him. She hadn't taken a good look at him for a while now.

i wonder if she thinks of him often, or whether she only has a mild crush on him. she obviously doesn't make any attempt to get close to him.

at Tim channeling playboy clones. wondering who gave him their advices

The clones were created to seduce, to charm and win people over to Alclayda in his plan for world domination. Timothy was created for this purpose

created to seduce? Tim? no wonder he lost to Ruben

"Tim," Fin began when he stood upright to leave. "I have my lunch break at one tomorrow and I usually eat by myself in the office. But, why don't I meet you somewhere and we could have lunch together? Then you won't have to play at being errand boy and thinking up lame excuses to come by the office just to see me."

ahh...so she's not really clueless. still, it's funny the way she said this...it's like she only did it to make things easier for him, not because she really wants to lunch with him.

'I've got a date with Fin. I've got a date with Fin.' Timothy thought happily to himself when he woke the next morning. 'I got a date with Fin.'

poor boy, so excited. I think Fin considers it little more than lunch.

whee, boyfriend makes a debut!!

"The girl working for Kav now?" Calvin asked. "Good one bro. She's hot."

some people never change

the whole crayfish conversation is just hysterical . I wonder why only Tim realized something unusual?

Owen looked astonished. "It's not that noisy."

Timothy frowned a little. He barely heard what Owen said. "Yeah it is."

Wilder too seemed concerned. "Tim, it's really not noisy."

yep, cos they're not telepathic.

Hey baby. You wanna come back to my apartment and do strange things together?

he's apparently not as innocent as i thought.

The clones were developing telepathy. He had just proved it.

I can't wait to see how they'll react when they realize it. Are you going to write it as well?

great chapter mezz! waiting for more

This post has been edited by footloose: Mar 17 2008, 03:07 AM

[dixiehellcat]

Love it! I always wondered about the clones' first discovering the wakening of their powers, how it seemed from different characters' perspectives, and Timothy is one of my faves.

I don't think Darin HAS an innocent look!

Bwah! Agreed!

created to seduce? Tim? no wonder he lost to Ruben

Oh, I dunno...he has such a sweet luminosity about him, such a sincerity, it just sucked some of us right in.

This post has been edited by dixiehellcat: Mar 17 2008, 04:43 AM

[PhillyluvsClay]

Runs in at lunchtime!

Great chapter Mezzo!! * Claps*


Runs back to work...

[Canadian bAiken]

It's too cute how Timothy always seems to find an excuse to pop in on Fin. It's obvious to us he's crazy about. She must know that, too.

However, no one knew why the plan seemed not to have worked, that Ruben Studdard had won instead. After long debate and discussion, the clones had reached the speculative conclusion that it was a technological fault with the voting system that gave Ruben the win.

Maybe the DOLs rigged the show so 'Clay' wouldn't win...because they didn't want 'him' under anyone's thumb but their own.

"Tim," Fin began when he stood upright to leave. "I have my lunch break at one tomorrow and I usually eat by myself in the office. But, why don't I meet you somewhere and we could have lunch together? Then you won't have to play at being errand boy and thinking up lame excuses to come by the office just to see me."

I like Fin. She's blunt. I like people like that cause you never have to wonder where you stand with them. If they have a problem with you, they'll tell ya. *grin*

You know, I'm really glad that Fin is being less standoffish with Timothy than before, though it worries me...but that's probably only cause I'm paranoid. Hee.

There was an unusual buzz in his head as he cleaned, as if someone had turned a radio or TV on to a channel with constant white noise. However, he didn't think twice about it, having more important things in his mind.

Uh oh. My spidey sense is tingling.

Calvin shook his head. "I was thinking it. But I don't recall saying it out loud."

Aha! And so it begins.

"It sure is noisy in here today." Timothy commented during a lull in their conversation, raising his voice to be heard above the din.

Owen looked astonished. "It's not that noisy."

Of course. They're hearing all the mental voices, but Owen isn't. Poor Owen.

"Maybe you're reading their mind." Owen suggested laughingly. Timothy laughed too at this absurd idea, sounding like something straight out of the X-Men.

Yep.

I just had a thought! If Timothy can now read minds without realizing it, I wonder what he'll read in Fin's mind before he realizes what's going on and respects her privacy.

Hey baby. You wanna come back to my apartment and do strange things together?

"Honestly Fin, I have no idea." Timothy replied as innocently as he could. "Darin must be hearing things." Inside, he was both kicking himself over his goof and rejoicing that Wilder was right. The clones were developing telepathy. He had just proved it.

Timothy is so cute and even when he's using stuff he learned from the playboys, he's still cunnin.

Great chapter, Mezz. Can't wait to see how this is handled by everyone, especially the brass. *rubs hands together*