Finding Max (9)

One by one, the clones made their way back to the apartment.

Some clones, still in their human forms, had adopted elaborate disguises.

They wore a variety of attire, from the casual garb of a street vendor to the more formal dress of a business executive.

They concealed their faces with hats, sunglasses, and even theatrical masks, all intended to blend in with the city's varied population.

Meanwhile, others had chosen a more unconventional route.

They had transformed into cats and dogs. Some sauntered in as graceful Siamese cats, their sapphire eyes shimmering with intelligence.

Others trotted in as boisterous Beagles or languid Labradors.

With his eyes filled with amusement, Erik watched each return. The apartment, now teeming with his disguised clones, had taken on the appearance of a bustling animal shelter.

Yet among the returning clones, Matthias was absent.