Foundation Still Needs To Answer 1 Huge Cleon Mystery Season 2 Ignored

Foundation season 3 needs to address an issue with the Cleons that season 2 did not, which gives the show a great opportunity to expand on the already fascinating character(s) of Empire. Both Foundation seasons so far have been filled with intrigue and have instilled curiosity in fans of the show. Not only has the adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s work included a great deal of the lore he created, but Foundation has also changed Asimov’s books and has made additions. One of these additions, while fitting, has led to issues that the show has yet to answer.

Foundation season 3 is happening, and the AppleTV+ show’s return will not only have to take the narrative forward, but also tie up the loose ends it has left behind. One element in particular is essential to address, and it could turn the tide of the generational war between Empire and the Foundation. The Genetic Dynasty is in danger for more reasons than one, and the series still hasn’t provided all the answers as to why.

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10 Biggest Changes Foundation Season 2 Makes To The Isaac Asimov Novels

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Who Altered The Cleon Clones’ Genetic Material Hasn’t Been Revealed

Season 3 Could Hold The Answers

Foundation season 1 brought about the revelation of genetic impurities within Empire. When Cleon XIV discovers his divergence from his brothers, the fear that runs through him shows just how serious the issue is. The realization even causes the young emperor to flee the palace to save himself from execution. Although his temporary exile results in the unveiling of an uprising against Empire, the organization in question seems to lack the skills required to infiltrate an imperial stronghold and alter the genetic material of Cleon I.

Ultimately, Cleon XIV is killed by Demerzel for what he is – an impure clone. The action seems drastic, but ultimately one that Demerzel feels is necessary to protect the sanctity of Empire. It’s also an act that’s rendered functionally pointless following the discovery that all the clones are suffering from the same affliction. The impurity is referenced to have run even deeper by season 2, but Empire’s vast resources are at least keeping it at bay. However, the fact remains that there has yet to be any explanation regarding who originally achieved the feat of tampering with the body of Cleon I

Why Empire Could Be In A Worse State In Season 3

The Cleons Are Running Wild

With no culprit and no way to stop the degradation of the original DNA, the cracks starting to show in Empire are likely to become wider in the next installment of Foundation. The Cleons have been acting evermore irrationally as the show has progressed, possibly in part due to their genetic alterations. Season 3’s possible time jump teased during Foundation season 2’s ending can show the level of instability of Empire a few generations later. There also needs to be some answers regarding who’s to blame for the original tampering of Cleon’s genetic material in Foundation.