While the identity of the intruder was hidden mostly in shadow, from the height and stature of them, Talia could see it was a girl.
Unsure of what to do Talia remained very still. Using a claming technique she learnt as a child, she quickly slowed her breathing and heartbeat.
If the girl left her well alone she'd be ok. If not…well…who knows?
The girl, who's back was turned to Talia began to make her way outside, to the roof of the tower.
That's right, just go on outside Talia thought, half hoping half begging for a miracle.
The girl was now half way to the window, then, something happened that made
Talia's heart, jump a beat.
The girl stopped as she caught sight of Talia's crumpled blanket.
She turned and walked over to it, then knelt down to get a closer look.
Now Talia told herself and with lightning speed raced over to the intruder. She violently grabbed a handful of jacket and slammed the girl face first to the floor.
Surprised by the fact that the girl did not scream or pass out Talia's anxieties increased and she dropped her guard.
The girl took up the opportunity and threw Talia off her.
She crashed into the opposite wall.
Such strength. Such speed. Talia thought
It could only mean one thing…
As the girl spun around prepared for combat, the moon seemed to glow brighter.
The girl stepped into the light.
"453, you're alive" Talia said, baffled to see her fellow Manticorean.
* * *
She thinks I'm Sam realised an equally baffled Max.
Which means she must be….
"I didn't realise it was you, if I had I would never have…"
"I'm not 453" Max blurted out cutting Talia off
"My designation's 452"
Talia's mouth opened but she made no sound.
Max saw the confusion in her face and knew it must be hard news to hear. She thought back to when she was back in Manticore and had just met Alec. Words couldn't describe how tough it was to meet someone who wore the face of your sibling.
Max struggled for words to ease the disappointment.
"Don't worry, she's safe"
"You know her then"? Talia asked dismayed
"Yeah…well. I kinda ran into her awhile back"
"Her name's Sam, she's happily married…she has a son"
Talia's face brightened. Max rubbed her jaw and took a seat by the window.
"I'm sorry," said Talia noting the rubbing.
She sat down next to Max.
Silence.
"My name's Talia" she said offering her hand to Max"
"Max" Max said, taking her hand and studying her face intently.
There was something oddly familiar about this girl that max couldn't quite finger.
"My designation's 211" Talia stated filing in the gap.
Now it was Max's turn to be stunned.
211…
Jondy's designation was 210…that meant that Talia must be…
She swallowed as the realisation hit home.
'Jondy's clone'.