Clone

Persistence of Discrimination

"Come on, we need to plan this out carefully," Ava said as she and the rebellion leaders huddled together, their determined expressions etched on their faces. "We've seen our numbers grow and our cause gain more support, it's time for bolder action."

"Agreed," one of the leaders chimed in. "We need to infiltrate the government's headquarters and steal evidence that reveals the truth about the clones and their treatment by the government."

"I volunteer to lead the mission," Rine spoke up, her skill and resourcefulness well-known among the group.

"Excellent choice," Ava nodded. "Rine will be accompanied by a small group of trusted rebels as we work to penetrate the government's defenses."

The group continued to strategize and plan, their determination to succeed in their mission clear in their every word and action. Rine remained silent, letting the group speak for her, her thoughts wandering aimlessly as she tried to decide if she was ready to face what lay ahead once again.

Once everything had been settled and the plans were formulated, Rine excused herself. Everyone watched silently as Rine left the meeting room, leaving her friends standing around wondering if they'd done the right thing.

They all heard her footsteps fade away down the hall before another figure appeared and joined their discussion. "Well, what did you think?" Dan asked.

"I'm afraid that's classified, Dan," Ava told him.

Dan's jaw fell open slightly in surprise. It wasn't often that Ava gave him orders, and when she did she usually didn't look happy about it. "But-" Dan started to argue only to be interrupted as Rine rounded the corner and walked quickly into the room.

"Excuse me, but may I borrow the commander for just a moment?" she asked.

"Of course, come in," Ava replied, smiling pleasantly at the clone commander.

"Thank you," Rine bowed respectfully, moving to a chair nearby, making sure not to sit next to any members of the rebel army.

"What can I help you with?" Ava asked, sitting opposite the commander and looking at her expectantly.

"Well..." Rine paused, trying to decide whether or not to tell the commander or the rest of the group what she wanted to discuss in private, until inspiration struck. "Actually," she continued after clearing her throat. "I came here today because of an unexpected development. I am pleased to say that I've found myself in love."

Ava smiled widely as she leaned across the table toward Rine, clasping her hands in front of her. "Congratulations, Rine. Are there any news as to its cause? Or the identity of his or her partner?"

Rine shook her head in amazement. She hadn't even noticed that the commander had slipped into conversation mode. "No, not yet. The mystery of my true love is still unsolved. As of today, however, I have decided to accept that this mystery must be solved, as soon as possible."

Ava smiled at the young woman who seemed to be so much like her friend, and who she knew would make a great ally in time. "Then let us put our heads together and come up with some new strategies to accomplish this."

ᘛ∎✠∎ᘚ

The Rebels spent the day plotting and planning in preparation for the upcoming attack against the government. In addition to the original members of the resistance, several of their close friends and associates had agreed to join the rebellion, including Dr. Larson, Dr. Smith, Admiral Kiel, Commander O'Connell, and Captain Sato.

"Are you sure you want us to come?" Commander O'Connell asked, giving Rine an intense glare, which the girl returned without hesitation.

"You will protect my people and I will defend yours," Rine answered confidently. "If you choose to stay behind then your loss will be my gain."