The truth behind lies (CC,M/L,ADULT) COMPLETED

[reinla]

~Thanks Monica for the wonderful banner~
Title: The Truth Behind Lies
Author: Reinla
Couples: M/L, M/M, A/I, K/T
Rating: Adult (language, violence, etc...)
Disclaimer: The characters of "Roswell" belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, WB, and UPN. I mean no infringement by borrowing them. I promise I will return them as soon as I finish playing.
Summary: In the final moments before their departure was planned chaos erupts. What happens when Tess kidnaps Liz and takes her as a hostage back to Antar? What happens to Liz when she returns to earth only to end up with the dupes?
Author's Note: This is my first Roswell fic. Please review for me and I will love you always!

Part One

Time ticked slowly away as the granolith counted down the remaining minutes until it was prepared. The usually quiet room housing the monstrous artifact was abuzz with the sounds of voices yelling. Max, Michael, Isabel and Tess had been prepared to leave for their planet when at the last minute Michael had realized that his home was on earth with Maria. Biding his farewell he left the pod chamber only to be stopped by Liz, Maria and Kyle who rushed to explain what was happening.

"Michael we have to get back in there. Max and Isabel are in danger. Tess is the one that put Alex in the coma" Liz rushed the words out. "Look we don't have time to sit here and explain we need to go."

Casting his gaze from Liz to Maria, Michael smiled as he turned around and headed back inside. He knew the others would follow and he only hoped that Liz was wrong about this. As the four approached the entrance to the granolith chamber he could hear the arguing coming from within. Speeding up his approach he raised his arm as he prepared to defend his brother and sister if need be.

Liz was the first to speak to the group, alerting them all to the fact that they were not alone. "You BITCH!" she yelled as her feet carried her to the small blond standing next to Max. "We trusted you, took you into our group, tried to make you feel like you belonged and this is how you repay us? You use your powers on Alex until his brain was so weak that it almost gave out forcing him into a coma! How could you do that? Was getting a translation for your little book that important to you that you didn't care who you hurt?"

Isabel gasped as she listened to the words that Liz spoke before turning her eyes onto Tess with a hateful look. She was angry beyond words but knew that there was nothing that she could say right now. Walking to stand next to Michael she raised her arm in an attempt to kill Tess if it came to that.

Kyle and Maria had both chosen to stay back from the group but for different reasons. Neither had the power to defend themselves if Tess decided to turn on them. A small part of Kyle was deeply angry that she would use his friendship as a cover for her actions. He had truly felt like he had made a connection with Tess and discovering that she betrayed him made it harder to bear. Maria on the other hand, she agreed completely with Liz. They had truly tried to embrace Tess even after the whole destiny fiasco, tried to make her feel included and she betrayed them all by harming Alex.

Even before Liz spoke, Max knew she was there, he could sense her through their connection. Her words caused pain and anguish to wash over him in large waves. His brain and heart were both screaming at him How stupid could you be? You give up the one person who would never betray you to be with some bimbette that only wanted to hurt you in the end Hardening his gaze Max looked at Tess. "Why? We took you in, made you one of us. We accepted the crap you spewed about destinies and this is how you repay us? Why do you really want to go back Tess? Can't deal with the knowledge that we know what kind of monster you are?"

Taking in the angry looks of the four standing near her Tess smiled to herself. "You are all weak fools. This planet truly has corrupted the once great King Zan." Turning to study the small brunette that had been the source of a lot of her problems with Max, Tess spoke abruptly. "Alex was the smartest of you, the only one that could have truly helped. While it was not my intention to put him in a coma, using my powers served there purpose. I shall go home and deliver the three of you to Kivar as promised."

The small gasp from Liz was audible over the silence of the others. Walking forward slowly, Liz approached Tess with a look that spoke volumes. "What do you mean as promised? No one has had contact with Kivar in over fifty years, at least not since the crash. Are you trying to tell us that Ava, was loyal to man who had her and the rest of the royal family murdered?"

Dead silence filled the chamber for a moment as everyone allowed the news to sink in. They all knew that she had been raised by Nasedo and that his teachings had a large influence on his life but it was hard to believe that she would willingly betray her king. The rapid ticking brought everyone's focus on the timer that was counting down.

Realizing that she had very little time Tess did the only thing she could think of. Reaching out she grabbed a hold of the one thing that would bring Max to his knees, Liz, and placed her hand on the granolith. Within seconds both girls were surrounded by a soft blue light before disappearing only to reemerge inside the shiny black surface of the granolith. Giving one final declaration, Tess spoke with hatred in her voice. "I will have my revenge Zan. You may not have loved me on Antar and you don't love me here, I will take my revenge by taking the one thing you do love."

Almost as soon as the words were finished, the ground beneath the chamber started shaking as rocks fell from the roof. "LIZ! Max yelled as he tried to rush forward towards the granolith. His movements were halted by the fact that both Michael and Kyle were holding him back.

"We have to get out of here, this whole place is going to crash down around us," Michael yelled as he pulled Max along with him. "Let's go. Now!"

The others followed quietly as they ran from the pod chamber and into the warm early morning desert air. No sooner did they step out of the chamber than the rocks started to crumble as it prepared to give away. The roaring of a ships engine burst through the silence as they watched helplessly as the ship left with their friend on board.

As Max watched the ship leave he felt his legs give out from underneath him. The love of his life was gone and it felt as if a part of his heart had been ripped out with it. She was in danger, traveling to a planet with their betrayer and he could do nothing to save her. He was so distraught that he barely acknowledged the hand that gripped his shoulder or the hugs from the others. Turning his head to his right he saw his best friend and brother standing there, hand on his shoulder with a look almost as sad as his own.

"We will get her back to you Maxwell, that I promise." Michael whispered, but the others heard it. "We will bring your queen back and make them all pay for their betrayal."

"Michael is right Max, we will find a way to bring Liz back to you but for now we need to leave. We can't go home yet but we can go to Micheal's for awhile if it is alright with him," Isabel spoke.

Kyle approached Max slowly, "I know that we have not always been the best of friends but if you would allow me, I want to help you guys in any way that I can. Isabel is right we need to leave this place and go somewhere else." He placed his hand gently on Max's other shoulder to show his support.

Maria was in tears but she too felt like she had to speak on this issue. "Max you know that was my best friend that was taken. I could kill you for getting her involved in any of this but that would not be fair to you, nor is it what Liz would want. She loved you dearly and she will do whatever she must to remain alive long enough for us to find a way to get her back. I love you Max, you are like the brother I never had and I know Alex would say the same thing." Gently she hugged the man that had captured the heart of her best friend.

Not wanting to break up the comfort-fest Michael shifted on his feet. "We need to get out of here. That ship taking off had to have caught a few eyes. Why don't we head back to my place and get some rest?" With that said he drug Max towards the car without allowing him to say anything.

Max could barely feel his feet moving as he was drug over to Maria's car and shoved in the backseat. Isabel climbed in beside her brother and made room for Kyle. Maria slid into the passenger seat allowing Michael the privilege of driving her Jetta away from the scene of the event that would scar her for life.

[reinla]

Part Two

Pressure build rapidly inside the granolith as it took off through space. The air became thinner and harder to breathe as the oxygen compressed out of the chamber. Liz was rapidly loosing the ability to stay conscious and Tess could only watch as the girl gave into the darkness. They would be on Antar soon, back with her people and Kivar. She only hoped that she could get him to believe her lies long enough for her carry on with her plan.

Tess knew that without coming back with Max, Michael and Isabel she stood less of a chance at defeating Kivar. She wanted revenge on them all, Kivar for betraying her and killing them, Zan for loving a human more than his own wife, Rath for standing steadfast with Zan and never questioning anything, Vilondra for being the pampered princess that Ava had so desperately wanted to. Most of all she would have her revenge on Liz for standing in the way of her true goals.

Since emerging from the pod a year later than everyone else, Tess had been under the constant watch of Nasedo. His powers had allowed her to open up her alien side, to remember her past life. He had told her that she belonged with Zan as his queen. She had been so blindly trusting that she had used her powers to try to seduce Max into loving her because he was Zan. Even after she realized that he was with his soul mate she could not stop trying to follow Nasedo's orders and she would pay for it dearly.

The ride from earth to Antar only took a matter of hours, the small craft landing softly in a grassy knoll near a landing dock. The hissing of a hidden door as it slid open, slowly brought Liz back to consciousness but not fast enough to stop the men from grabbing her and Tess from the granolith. Two soldiers for each girl dragged them from the ship and towards the palace steps.

Liz stumbled as she tried to shake her head clear of the fog that seemed to pervade it ever since she landed on Antar. She got the feeling that something big was about to go down but she had no idea when. Turning her gaze to her right she saw Tess look on with fear as they approached the palace.

There standing before them was a huge buildings, with white stones and yellow brick sidewalks. It looked like someone had thrown an Irish castle on top of the yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz and Liz had to fight back a small chuckle. From the angle she was at she could see small mansions dotting the landscape and wondered if anyone was poor on this planet. In the distance she could hear a few explosions, assuming it must be Kivar's men against some troops still loyal to King Zan. She had been so caught up in her assessment of the city that she failed to notice where she was being taken.

Tess and Liz were led to the palace and into the throne room where Kivar stood waiting. Upon entering the room, both girls were thrown to the ground in front of the blond man. Tess managed a proper bow, "You majesty. Pardon me for the intrusion but may I speak as to why I am here?" her saccharine sweet tone carried through the hall.

Liz managed a glare at the man that had killed her Max in a past life, at a man who had caused them so much pain and anguish. She would speak when she got her chance even if it cost her everything. Look at her trying to butter him up. She is lucky we were not killed upon landing but she has to continue to push her welcome she thought with a sigh.

Kivar studied the two young girls in front of him, his blue eyes flicking between each of them. He was not shocked to see the double of Ava bowing before him trying to win him over with her errant flirting. Flicking his gaze to the brunette he was stumped a moment, there was something vaguely familiar about her but he could not quite place it. Nodding his head to the blond he spoke to her with anger in his voice, "I see Ava that you still do not know how to address your superiors. Your little friend here is currently showing me more respect than you, but I digress for now. Why have you returned and where are the others? I believe we had a deal?"

"Your highness, there were complications. Max... Zan he was not so easily persuaded to come. The others they were able to convince him at the last moment that Earth was where he belonged but do not fret my lord. We still hold power over him, her, she is his love. When I stole her he was so distraught I doubt he would put up much of a fight," Tess spoke rapidly.

Kivar could only gasp a small moment as his eyes once again focused on the brunette. Smirking at the possibilities running through his mind Kivar reached out and pulled Liz's head up by her hair so he could study her face. The shock that registered on his face was hard to miss, as he sent her flying back a few feet with his powers. Turning to Tess he unleashed his confusion, "You bring her here? Now? What were you thinking? Do you have any idea who she is?"

Tess was getting a bit nervous as she looked from Kivar to Liz and back. "She is just some stupid whore that Max fell for. She is his weakness, I do not see what the problem is."

"The problem... The problem is that SHE is supposed to be DEAD! I made sure of it." Kivar seethed. How could it be? How is it that he could not sense it from the beginning. He knew he could not kill her, lest someone find out and truly overthrow him. No he had to treat her with some amount of respect and give her small freedoms but she would be watched. "Guards!" commanded Kivar, "Show them to their room. Ava is in the one beside mine where she has always been and that thing.." he said pointed to Liz's crumpled form, "gets to be housed next to Zol."

As soon as he was done speaking the guards once again grabbed their charges and pulled them towards their rooms. Tess was shoved into one of the royal bedchambers. It was opulent, deep wooden tones and metals made things stand out. On the vanity were a set of brushes with jewels encrusted in. She smirked at all of the beautiful things that decorated the room before she set off to explore. She found she had her own bathroom but that her bedroom connected with Kivar's, which made her smirk grow wider.

Liz was thrown into the smallest of the guest rooms. Blinking a few times to adjust to the dim lights she noticed that the furniture looked a lot like it did on earth. There were similarities all over the place, making her want to explore, to touch that scientific side of her again. The sound of her door clicking and locking shut snapped her out of her temporary daydream. She was too exhausted to process everything that had happened, so she climbed up on the small cot. As she lay there she could feel the tears fall as her thoughts traveled to her love, to Max.

[reinla]

AN~ For now the action on Antar and Earth are going to be their own separate parts. Its easier for me to write it that way. Thanks so much for the lovely reviews and Jan your question will be answered soon.

Part Three

Amber eyes stared at the barren desert with no hope, watching as sand and cactus dotted the landscape from the pod chamber back to Roswell. Quiet filled the small car forcing its inhabitants to dwell on their own thoughts. Pain and anguish warred with his soul as the the powerful emotions ripped through him. Max was lost amidst a torrent of thoughts that traveled down a path he refused to go. His Liz was gone, taken to a home he would never see, she would more than likely be gone forever and he was completely at fault. As the car sped down the quiet highway Max could feel himself giving up, loosing the fight to care. He only wanted for this whole nightmare to be over, to go back to the way things were before Tess had arrived in Roswell.

Isabel cast a worried look to her left, staring at her younger brother with concern. She had a small idea what he was going through, having lost Alex in a way when he was put in a coma. Her heart broke as she stared at dead eyes, silently vowing to do whatever she could to find a way to bring Liz back to them all. Her thoughts were scattered as she watched their town rapidly approaching, before a moment of brilliance entered her mind. If Liz truly was on their home planet then perhaps Isabel might be able to dreamwalk her, to communicate with her. Smiling slightly she decided that she would try it not only for her brother but to make sure her friend was ok.

Kyle felt out of place sitting next to Max after everything that had happened. Anger rushed through his veins as his heart warred with his head. He had been used a pawn, a player in this horrible game and he felt like it was all his fault. Had he not been so adamant about pursuing Liz and trying to back at Max he would never have been brought into all this mess. He had allowed his feelings and friendship for Tess to cloud his judgment making it impossible to see that she was using her powers on him. A small part of him expected the group to hate him, after he unwilling helped Tess with the Alex 'situation.'

Hands gripped the steering wheel tight as Michael pushed the Jetta as fast as he could towards Roswell. Fear was the dominating factor that kept him focused on the road. Fear that he was about to loose his brother permanently, fear that he would never see Maria happy again. Though he had not always been comfortable around Liz she was a vital part of their team. As protector and second in command he would die trying to bring his brother back the only thing that made him happy.

Maria was trying hard not to fidget in her seat as she watched Roswell appear in the window. She had known Liz and Alex since kindergarten and now she had lost them both. Alex lay in a comma at Roswell Memorial and Liz well she could only hope that she was still alive somewhere out there in the cosmos. Moisture leaked from her eyes as she wiped away her tears before sneaking a peak at Max from the rear view mirror. She was worried that he had not said anything since being dragged out of the pod chamber, normally he was quiet but this was too much.

Tires squealed as Michael threw the Jetta into a parking spot outside his apartment, slamming in the break and snapping all of the occupants out of their reveries. Slamming his door open he quickly ushered the others out of the vehicle and into his apartment. Max went willingly, not having the energy or desire to fight or resist. Cramming inside the tiny apartment, each person took a turn looking around, everyone afraid to be the first to speak.

"I think perhaps we should take a look at that destiny book thing again. I know it told you guys who you were in a past life but maybe there were things that you guys, something that might help us get her back," Kyle suggested softly.

"I have to agree with Kyle on that one. There has to be a reason that the granolith allowed Liz to enter.." Isabel trailed off for a moment as a strange thought occurred to her. "Tess always said that humans could not touch it, would not be affected by it, perhaps when Liz was healed she became less human?"

The thought had appeared between all of them at one point or another, as a way to explain some of the mysterious happenings between Max and Liz, but the reality that it may very well be true seemed to sober them up even more.

Walking away from the others, Max slumped down on the couch. He felt hollow inside, like a part of his soul had died, but his heart was telling him to fight and stay strong. "I think we should each take some time to go over the book. I still have a copy of the translations that Alex made before his accident. Also perhaps we should try to activate the orbs again, maybe we can contact someone who can help us."

Michael watched as Max grasped at straws but he seemed to agree. He was relieved to hear his brother speak and spoke for the first time, assuming command while Max allowed himself to morn. "Isabel, why don't you head back to your house and gather some clothing and essentials for you and Max before returning. Maria, you should call Liz's parents and come up with a cover story. Summer vacation officially starts tomorrow perhaps she went camping for a while?" Running a hand through his disheveled hair he took a breath before continuing, "Kyle we need you to intercept your father before he gives the tape to Max and Isabel's parents, also he needs to know what is going down. I am going to go get us some food and extra supplies. I suggest we either hold up here or find us a place were all of us can sleep because we will be working on this for a while."

After the initial shock of Michael taking control everyone left to go do as they had been told. When everyone had left the apartment Michael grabbed a Snapple from the fridge and sat down on the couch next to Max. "You know Maxwell you are my brother. I will do anything I can to help us get Liz back."

"I know Michael and it means a lot to me. I will swear to you that if I ever see Tess again I will kill her slowly and painfully." Black eyes full of rage looked strait ahead before continuing. "I remember how things were in our first life. She betrayed us then as she has betrayed us now."

Within twenty minutes everyone had arrived back from their tasks and sat around the living room in the apartment preparing to make plans. Isabel had been the first to arrive, bringing in two large suitcases for both her and Max before shooing him off to the shower with his things. Kyle had been the next to arrive, bring his father with him as well as some clothes. Maria had been the last to arrive, she had made a detour to Liz's room before leaving.

Looking around the group to see if she could spot Max, she sighed, "Mr. and Mrs. Parker believe that Liz is away at astronomy camp for the summer. To make it look real I had to go pack some of her clothes, because honestly who goes to camp with nothing. Also I brought this with me, I don't think it has any relevance to the rest of you but it might help cheer Max up some." Placing the journal on the table, Maria hid the suitcase full of clothes in the closet before taking a seat on the floor as she waited to hear what their next step was.

[reinla]

Thank you guys so much for the wonderful reviews. Carrie stop spilling all my secrets... Just Kidding! I am open to suggestions for a name if you do not like the one I reference here.

AN: Zol looks likes Usher Raymond.

Part Four~A

Soon after being shown to the room beside Kivar's, Tess was once again greeted with guards and escorted next door. She should have been petrified at meeting with him, knowing that he was the one that killed them all in their other life but she was simply awash in giddy joy. Growing up with Nesado had taught her a great many things, one being the deal he made. Never had she imagined that she would have been able to convince Max of their one night together without the use of her powers, so she had played it up fully. Tess remembered everything from her life as Ava, even the betrayal that was easily pinned on Vilondra.

Her footfalls fell heavy against the floor as she was left standing in front of the master bedroom. Civility was for the weak minded she believed but until she was once again accepted as queen she would pretend to be hospitable and polite. Reaching out slowly she knocked on the door softly as she waited for her signal to enter. At the curt "Enter", Tess pushed the door open and walked in slowly. Bowing she spoke with a sugary voice, "Your highness. I was told that you wished to see me. How may I be of service?"

"Sit down and shut up. We have much to discuss Ava and a small amount of time to do so."

Taking a chair beside Kivar, Tess studied the room a moment. It was large, the size of two great rooms put together, with an odd assortment of remarkably human looking furniture. The back well held the biggest bed she had ever seen, even having seen photos of celebrity houses. To the right of the bed was a small library, six shelves full of what looked to be books and scrolls, a small table making it obvious. There were couches and chairs scattered throughout, her eyes instinctively trying to seek out the large screen TV that men usually had in their bedrooms. It had been entirely too long since she had been in this room, even though it had changed so much.

Kivar studied her for a moment, So this is Ava. The clone that was made of the queen, of my sister? She has not changed much that is for sure but how much does she remember? Slouching back in his chair he smirked a moment. "We have many things to discuss sister. I would like to start with why you are back and why she is here with you?"

"I am back because of the deal Nesado made. You know who I was in that other life. I was the queen, ruling beside Zan. It is only unfortunate that you decided to attack the day of our wedding dear brother. You ruined my plans for destroying Zan then as much as that little trollop destroyed them on earth." Blue eyes locked with each other as Tess stared at her older brother. "Her name is Liz and she is completely human. I brought her here because Max loves her and it would cause him pain. I know where you are going with your thoughts but stop right there. She is NOT Lyssaria, she is not Rath's sister nor is she the true queen. She just happens to bear a striking resemblance to an insignificant stain on the royal line."

Kivar was unsure of the words his sister spoke. The girl looked so much like Lyssaria it was truly a frightening though. He was weary of the girl but knew that he could not keep her locked up in the palace if he hoped to learn of ways to destroy Zan. "I only hope you are right dear sister. Was it not Lyssaria that killed you in the first place? I made sure she died a horrible and painful death, so imagine my shock when her twin shows up here. Be gone! You will find all of your things still in your room as you left them but the girl cannot stay this close to us. Until I have ascertained with certainty that she is now who I believe her to be she will be free to move about city. Do not upset the balance here and you will not find yourself answering to me."

With a curt nod Tess stood and walked out of the room. Shock and anger surrounded her as she growled out her displeasure. She had been told in not so subtle terms to be nice to the little trollop until Kivar could determine whether she needed to die or not. It was advantageous to keep Liz alive for now, just until she knew that it would be safe to kill the girl.

Entering her old room and opening the doors to the armoire, Tess stared at all of her beautiful clothes. It had been so long since she had seen the luxuriant fabrics that graced the bodies of the noblewomen of Antar. Smiling indulgently to herself, she pulled out a red dress and flounced her way to the shower to prepare for the day. The trip had been tiring, not to mention the drama in the pod chamber but nothing could ruin her good mood, at least nothing for a while.

Part Four~B

Darkness swam throughout the room as Liz lay still on the cot, if it could even be described as that. The bed was so small that her feet dangled off the edge, the blankets so thin they were almost see through. Shivers ran through her body as she fought back the tears that threatened to spill out of her eyes. She had kept her eyes closed, her thoughts training on Max. She loved him so much, he was her soul mate and she would probably never see him again. Being human royally sucked, leaving her with no options.

After his conversation with Tess, Kivar walked a few rooms down and knocked on the door of Zol's room. Zol was someone of power, the high priest of the royal line. He possessed the ability to interpret prophecies and dreams and had never failed. At the knock on his door, Zol cast his black eyes towards the offending wood. Standing slowly, he allowed his body to carry him to the door. Yanking open the door he sneered down at the bane of his existence. There was no love lost between Kivar and Zol, Zol being loyal to the original royal family and Kivar having taken over by force. "What do you want?"

"We have a guest that you need to take care of. Show her around the palace, the city but do not let her out of your site for too long." Kivar growled out his orders, "She looks just like Lyssaria and I expect you to find out how."

Zol watched at Kivar stormed away. He had known that there was a human in the palace and had bid his time until he could try to help her. He had received communication from the resistance. It had told of the ship landing and two women being pulled from the wreckage, one blonde, one brunette. Now was his chance to help the girl escape while finding out who she was.

Exiting his room, Zol used his powers to open the door to the room that Liz occupied. He could see the young woman curled up on the horrible excuse for a bed, tears failing down her face as he approached. He was cautious not to make any sudden movements, not wanting to deal with a wild girl.

Liz heard someone come into the room and she ignored them, knowing that she was going to die sooner or later. When the man made slow movements Liz took the opportunity to sit up. She was afraid to speak, afraid that she would say something to anger them. She did not trust her mind not to ask why Kivar thought she was dead. "Who are you?

"Do not fear me little one. My name is Zol, I am high priest here on Antar. I have served the royal line for many years. I came to see if you were ok, the blonde queen can get a bit nasty when her plans are foiled. Will you tell me your name and what you are doing here?" He asked the girl softly. She looked terrified so he spoke again, "Perhaps if we took a walk outside the confines of the palace you would feel more comfortable. I know of a park that is in bloom right now, filling the place with lovely white roses."

Liz contemplated her options before nodding her head softly. If she was outside she stood a better chance at escape. Rising from the cot slowly she stretched out her exhausted legs and glanced down at her appearance and frowned. "My name is Liz, Liz Parker. I think the walk in the park would be perfect but do not expect me to tell you everything. You work for Kivar and I cannot trust you."

Noting the determined look in the woman's eyes Zol chuckled a moment. "Very well Liz Parker let us go for that walk. Perhaps we can talk about our worlds." With that said he grabbed her by the arm gently and led her from her room and out of the palace.

[reinla]

AN: Carrie, this parts for you

Part Five

"Also I brought this with me, I don't think it has any relevance to the rest of you but it might help cheer Max up some." Placing the journal on the table, Maria hid the suitcase full of clothes in the closet before taking a seat on the floor as she waited to hear what their next step was....

Soft leather thudded against the table as the journal was thrown down. Inside its slightly worn cover held secrets that no one was supposed to know. The truths behind many of lies that Liz weaved were just waiting to be discovered. It was the forbidden fruit, the holy grail, whatever you wanted to call it no one but Liz was to know what secrets it held.

Max sat stiffly as he kept his gaze trained on the very object that would allow him to see deeper into the soul of his beloved. He could feel his heart and his brain warring with each other. His head was telling him to open it, to see if there might be some clue to help bring Liz home faster, while his heart was yelling at him to still respect her privacy. He was afraid of what he would find in there, still remembering when he had asked to read it. Reaching out with a shaky hand he quickly snatched it off the table, holding it close to his chest as if he was able to hug Liz in some way because of it.

Isabel was furious as she looked at Maria with hard eyes. It was hard for her to fathom that anyone would be dumb enough to try to take the journal. "How could you? That journal contains all of her secrets and feelings You had no right to take it!"

"Isabel relax. You know as well as I do that Liz never goes anywhere for any length of time without that journal. If she was to truly be away like Maria had said, she would have taken it. We can't risk that her parents would find it." Michael spoke quickly trying to defend Maria.

"I am sorry Maria," Isabel said softly. "I just would hate to know that in a time of crisis my deepest darkest secrets were made known to my friends, especially when I was not ready to share them."

"The only person that needs to know what is in there is Max. I would be highly shocked if any of you read." Maria said with irritation in her voice. "Now why don't we all try to come up with ideas? There has to be something, even small that might help."

Max remained still, the journal clutched to his chest as he allowed tears to fall. His heart was grieving for the love he lost, small whimpers escaping him every now and again. Suddenly without speaking he stood to his full height, grabbed the bag of clothes that Isabel had brought and headed for the shower. He needed time alone to process everything.

The others looked on concerned as they watched their leader fall apart. No one knew what to do to comfort him and empty platitudes would only piss him off, so they simply watched as he walked out of the room.

~~
Max walked slowly towards the bathroom desperately wanting to take a shower and rid himself of Tess. Pushing the door open, Max slowly entered the room and used his powers to lock the door. Setting his suitcase down on the commode and setting Liz's journal on top of it, he let out a sigh. Turning on the water to the shower he let it heat up slowly as the room filled softly with steam.

Raising his head, Max stared long and hard in the mirror. Hollow eyes looked back at him from pale skin, shocking him for a moment. He had to keep it together for her sake, for all of their sakes. He stood there staring at his reflection until it became blurry from the condensation on the mirror.

Reaching for the hem of his shirt he slowly pulled the offending material up and over his head. The strong muscles in his back and arms rippled as he tossed the shirt to the floor. Slowly he unfastened the snap on his jeans and lowered the zipper feeling the material loosen around his waist. Pushing the denim down and off his legs, Max was left standing in a pair of blue stripped boxers. With shaky hands he slowly removed the last of his clothes and stepped under the hot spray of water.

Closing his eyes, Max stood still as the water cascaded down his well muscled body. He could feel the path each and every drop took on its way down and it made him shudder. Never before had he been so in tune with everything around him and it shocked him. He could feel every molecule inside the water, focusing for a moment he changed the drops into cubes and then changing them back.

Reaching out, Max grabbed the bar of soap, rubbing it in his hands until it formed a rich luxuriant lather. Running his hands up and down his chest Max sighed in bliss as he soaped himself. Scrubbing as hard as he could, Max tried to get rid of any trace of Tess on his skin. He scrubbed an scrubbed until he started to turn his skin pink from the pressure. His eyes were closed and tears were falling down again until he heard a voice in his head.

"Max I love you. Please stop trying to punish yourself over this. I know you were never with Tess and I will return to you my love but you have to stay strong."

Snapping his eyes open, Max shook his head a moment wondering if it had only been his imagination. Images of Liz suddenly started to fill his mind. He could see her in a dark room, crying as she felt fear. He could see someone come in the room and speak to her though he could not hear what was being said. Shaking a moment Max rinsed off the soap and turned off the water slowly. He had not been trying to open his connection to Liz, unsure if it would work with her so far away.

Stepping out of the shower, Max tied a towel around his waist for a moment as he used his powers to dry himself off. Max can feel his whole body shaking from breaking the connection with Liz but he can't seem to make it stop. Slowly he pulled on a pair of black silk boxer shorts with black jeans over them. Throwing on a white tank Max does not even bother to put on a real shirt. Grabbing his suitcase and Liz's journal he makes his way back into the Living Room. "We cannot all stay here Michael, there is not enough room."

~~
Everyone watched as Max stood up and left the room. No one was going to bother to say anything realizing it was futile. Max needed his space and chance to grieve in his own way.

Isabel sat and watched her brother take off towards the shower, sighing as her thoughts drifted to Alex. "We have lost so much because of her. Not only do we need to find a way to bring Liz back but we need to find a way to wake Alex from his coma." She loved Alex dearly and wanted him with them.

Jim watched with sadness at the way each of these young people were handing the situation. Kyle had filled him in on what happened when he had come home for some clothes. "If Tess was the one that put Alex in a coma is it possible that she had also been preventing Max from healing him? We don't know the extent of her powers so it is possible that she used them to dilute Max's. Perhaps now that she is gone we can try once again to wake him up." Sighing a moment he pressed on, "I think we are going to need Alex's help to bring Liz back. He was the one that translated the book, perhaps he can also tell you what else he learned."

All eyes snapped over to Jim as they took in what he said. "I think you might be right about that Sheriff. Can we ask that of Max so soon after loosing Liz? I don't want to push my brother any more than we have too but I would like Alex here by my side again."

Michael watched each member of his family as they contemplated what they were told. "I agree we should ask Max if he would be willing to try to heal Alex again. Also I think we should try to activate the orbs again. If Tess was truly blocking Max healing Alex then I have this nagging feeling that the hologram we saw was really a mind warp as well."

Maria was lost for words as silent tears fell. She had lost so much in such a short time, but she was determined to be strong. Liz would want her to be strong, to help hold Max and the others together. "It's settled then I guess. We will ask Max to try to heal Alex again because we need him."

Kyle had sat back and listened as the others talked amongst themselves. He was struck by a sudden idea. "Guys I hate to point out the obvious but we all cannot stay at Micheal's apartment. There just isn't enough room." He was interrupted by Max's voice ringing out the same phrase.

~~
Everyone turned to stare at Max, schooling there expressions in hopes it would not push him too far into his grief. Jim stood slowly and approached the young man before pulling him into a hug. "I am so sorry to hear about what happened with Liz. I will do what I can to help in any way. We were just talking about it and I think I might know of a place where you can go. My family owns a cabin on the outskirts of town. Its large enough for 12 people to stay comfortably, Kyle and I only use it when we want to go on a fishing retreat but I think it would work better for this purpose." Handing Max the keys and a piece of paper with the directions he stepped back.

Max was stunned at the generosity Jim was extending towards them. "Thank you Sheriff. It will work well for us and it is secluded enough we won't be caught practicing our powers."

Isabel was the next to speak, standing slowly she approached her brother. "Max we have a small favor to ask you. We were thinking that perhaps it was Tess who was preventing you from being able to heal Alex and well...." she trailed off afraid to finish.

"You want me to try again? Of course I will Izzy, Alex is a part of this team and we need him." Max pulled his sister close and hugged her before turning to the others. "Michael, Is and I will go to the hospital and try to bring Alex out of his coma. I need you to scout out this place that Jim was telling us about. Kyle go with him and make a list of the food and supplies we will need to stock the house. Maria, I need you and the Sheriff to come up with excuses as to why all of us are going to be gone. Sheriff, you will need to talk to our parents and let them know what Maria comes up with. We all will meet back here at.." Glancing at his watch and realizing it was 11 am, "3pm."

Everyone nodded as they headed off for their tasks. It was going to be hard being short the jeep until he remembered that he hadn't destroyed it. He had hidden the real jeep and they had blown up different one.

Pulling Isabel along with him, they walked to where Max hid the jeep. Using his powers he uncovered the vehicle from its disguise and climbed in driving off towards the hospital. Kyle and Michael climbed into the Mustang and headed out towards the cabin, while Maria and Jim started working on ideas that would make good cover.

[reinla]

AN: Please don't hate me for this part. I thought long and hard and even Tess deserves to find some happiness, just not with my Max!

Part Six

Tess had spent the better part of an hour pampering herself once again. She had bathed in one of the biggest tubs ever to exist using the apple and citrus oils to make her skin soft and sweet smelling. After she had indulged herself in the bath she had dressed in her favorite red dress. The dress was held up by thin straps that crossed behind her neck as a halter. The plunging neckline held little to the imagination as she padded her bra just a smidgen to increase the effect. It fit skin tight until just about the hips where it flared out some to mid thigh. Finishing her adjustments, Tess spun around twice in the mirror giggling in joy.

She remembered what it was like to be Ava, what her life had been like on Antar before she met her demise. Some parts were still a bit fuzzy, but she would get the answers she sought. A small part of her brain was nagging her about why she was willingly allowing herself to be around Kivar. He was the one that murdered her after all, even after she betrayed Zan and framed Vilondra. Something did not add up, her first clue had been the way Kivar had reacted to Liz. If he was truly that terrified of the girl why not just kill her? She would find some time to dig through the annals, in hopes that it would bring her some answers.

Stopping spinning, Tess kept her smile on her face as she left her room for a walk. She wanted to explore the place that would be her new home, wanting to memorize all of the newest parts. As she walked past the room where Liz had been placed she noticed that the door was open, peaking inside she glared that the girl was no where in sight. Pushing aside her anger. Tess continued on her journey out of the palace and down towards the gardens. As she approached the gardens she heard soft voices, intrigued, she pressed forward getting close enough to hear without being seen. What she heard shocked her to the core and made her angry at the same time.

~~
Liz had allowed Zol to escort her out of the palace by her arm, jerking it free when they reached the last step. "I don't have to be manhandled. I am quite capable of walking on my own you know."

"I know that but if you would bother to look around you would realize that you are an alien among aliens. You are safer if I drag you than if you try to walk on your own. Now follow me, the garden is this way." laughed Zol with a hint of amusement in his voice.

Begrudgingly Liz followed, afraid to speak more than she already had. Looking around her she realized that even though she looked slightly different than the others, she did not feel entirely out of place. All of the buildings looked remarkably human, the tress and flowers the same as well. The only difference were the people, a striking number of them blond, very few brunettes. While they seemed mostly human, they seemed to have elongated necks making them slightly resemble giraffes, a soft blue glow seemed to surround the men, while a white-gold glow surrounded the women.

Zol and Liz walked for a few minutes before the gate to the garden came into view. The stark black wrought-iron fence surrounded trees and flowers for what seemed to be miles. Staring at the strange V formation on the gate, Liz took a moment to realize where she had seen it before. Smiling softly she spoke, "The V-Formation, the royal Antarian Seal. Is this the royal family garden?"

Slightly impressed with her knowledge of the seal, Zol nodded before taping each planet in order ending with the one that represented Antar. With a loud clanking the gate swung open and Liz and Zol entered walking down the winding path. He led her to the rose garden, where he used his powers to conjure up a blanket for them to sit on. "Why don't we start first by answering some of the questions you have Liz? I know that in due time we will get to know each other but until then I will try to answer your questions."

Sitting down on the blanket Liz cast her gaze over to the white roses. "Why does everything around here look so human? The only thing that looks alien to me are the people. What did Kivar mean when he said that I was supposed to be dead?" Fear was fighting to make itself known on the surface but Liz would not give this stranger the satisfaction of seeing her tears.

"While as a race humans are considered inferior some of their ideas have been adapted into our culture. If you really think about it, by us adopting parts of earth such as their buildings or city parks were are in a way honoring that civilization are we not?" a small chuckled escape with the words. "As far as why Kivar thinks you are dead. Well that is a story that is going to take some time to discuss. As long as you are willing to listen I will share that story with you."

Smirking slightly Liz rolled her eyes at the overly dramatic way Zol was acting. "Where else am I going to go? I don't know my way around and I doubt that anyone would help me. Besides if I ran into Tess, or should I call her Ave here, she would probably kill me."

Black eyes met brown as Zol thought over his words carefully. "The reason Kivar thinks you are dead is because you are the identicle image of Lyssaria. I would imagine that you have a fondness for science and white roses just like she did. Like yourself she was part human, part Antarian. Back then it was frowned upon, considered totally unacceptable to not be pure.

Lyssaria was the younger half sister of Rath, King Zan's second in command. Growing up the four of them, Lyssaria, Zan, Rath and Vilondra were inseparable. They always played together but most importantly they always protected each other. As they were growing up everyone just assumed that Lyssaria was full Antarian just like they were, so it was never questioned. As the children started to get older and mature it became obvious that they had feelings for one another. Zan loved Lyssaria with all his heart, as did Rath but more in a sisterly way.

Rath's father, General Zyton had managed to fool everyone until almost the very end. See he knew that Zan and Lyssaria had feelings for each other and that the King planned to have Lyssaria marry him and be crowned Queen but Zyton would not allow it. He hated his daughter, feeling like she was a stain on the royal line, and so upon his deathbed, mere days after the announcement that King Zan was getting married, he told his secret.

Everyone was shocked at first, Lyssaria the most because she had powers you see, just like any Antarian would have. She had never known that she was different, but her life changed so rapidly that she would never get the time to think about it. As soon as it was found out, Zan's parents broke off the engagement and entered negotiations for his wedding to Ava. Zan, Rath and Vilondra were forbidden from speaking to her as more than a servant and though they refused things became difficult for Lyssaria.

She was demoted to servant status just like the other humans here. Her job was to serve Ava, help her transition from her world to this one. Through it all Lyssaria never lost who she was. She was still the same smart, beautiful woman she had always been. What many did not know was that she was clairvoyant. She would get flashes, images of things to come. She was the one that warned of the attack on the palace by Kivar but before she could let them know who the traitor was she was murdered by Ava.

After the bodies were discovered of the royal four, Ava included we were able to extract DNA from them and mix it with human to make the clones who we sent to earth for safekeeping. We wanted to do the same to Lyssaria but when we found her there was not enough left. Ava had stabbed her but Kivar had tortured her until she died, then cut her body up into pieces. He knew that Lyssaria was the key to Zan recovering the throne and he wanted to make sure that there was no way she could be brought back.

So you see, that is why he is surprised that you look just like her. Both Lyssaria and her human mother were murdered but we suspect that there may have been another child, or that someone secretly was able to clone her. I can tell though that by looking at you, you are her. You believed you were human correct?"

Liz sat in utter silence as she absorbed the words that Zol had spoke. Was she really a hybrid all along? She had no powers so that could not be right. "Of course I was human. I have the birth certificate and records to prove it." She proceeded to explain to Zol about her parents and the events that led to her being shot and how Max had healed her. She also spoke about the arrival of Tess to their group and everything that they had gone through.

"Ava was right, when Max healed you he changed you. Though if I am right your alien side had been laying dormant since you escaped your pod so early. We had lost all hope that there were any survivors of the crash until I got a message in 1983. One of the protectors, I believe he goes by Kal, was in Roswell looking over the pods that had been placed there when he discovered a fifth pod set away from the others in a hidden room. He would never have found it had it not been for the sound of a baby crying. He sent us word that he had taken the baby to the nearest hospital, where he discovered a family that had just lost their baby girl. He managed to switch the children before the doctors became any wiser, disguising you as the daughter for that family and their real child as the dead abandoned baby.

You see I was the one in charge of the project to that would allow our king and his family to return to us one day. So when I got word about a fifth alien child I kept it all extremely secret and did some snooping around of my own. It seems that Zan's mother, at the last minute decided that Lyssaria should be with her son. All human subjects are required to give a blood sample in preparation for the cloning. We had originally planned to clone the humans so that there would be enough workers but when the war came we had to change our plans. So Lyssaria was cloned and hidden on the ship with the others. One of the protectors must have found your pod and hidden it away."

Liz stood up from her spot and started to pace back and forth across the grass. Things in her life had just become so much more complicated. Closing her eyes she focused her thoughts on Max, surprised at how quickly their connection opened. She could feel his pain, anguish and fear so she spoke out loud to him. "Max I love you. Please stop trying to punish yourself over this. I know you were never with Tess and I will return to you my love but you have to stay strong."

Zol was not the least bit surprised to hear Liz talk out loud to Max. Lyssaria and Zan used to do it all the time, this was just more proof she was who he thought her to be.

Turning her head back to the other occupant of the garden Liz sat down biting her lip softly. She once again started talking speaking about how she couldn't possibly be this Lyssaria person because of Tess and the whole destiny message.

Zol stopped her rambling to speak again. "Liz there are things about Ava, Tess, that you must understand. She is different from any of us, she was the first successful cloning/hybridization experiment. Ava was never really born. When Kivar was young he made it his life's work to overthrow the ruling family of Antar. His people, the Skins, had always been a warring nation, always seeking to rule by force and pain. He knew that he would need to get someone on the inside to help him, someone the king would trust.

At first he started to try to seduce Vilondra and it worked for a while, that is until she became resistant to his powers. In anger he had some of the scientists here clone himself but change the genetic make-up from male to female. He hoped that if he could engineer the perfect woman, part seductress, part lover that he might be able to get an ally into the palace. The problem was that he succeeded but he also altered Ava's ability to make the right choices. He has forever been able to influence the way she thinks and acts. From the very beginning she was programmed to only love Zan and to betray them all. I doubt she even knows this much, I only know because I had a chance to access the data that Kivar so wanted to keep hidden. In the end Ava or Tess, has a choice who she wants to be. If she kills Zan again her fate will be sealed but if she can realize that there is someone out there that loves her and chooses to change, maybe she can change the way her life is."

Shock registered in Liz's brain as she tried to absorb all of this information. Everything seemed to click in place now, this was why she was so persistent about destiny, about her and Max belonging together. "I know that deep inside I can forgive her for everything she has done. Being programmed that way does not excuse her actions but it makes them easier to forgive." Standing Liz started walking out of the garden as Zol followed. She had had enough of this place.

~~
Tess was shocked beyond words at what she heard. Is it really true? Did he create me to be his pawn in this game? she thought. Tess knew she would get the answered she sought, perhaps a visit to Zol and then a trip to the records that he spoke of.

As she walked away from the garden, Tess thought about her life in Roswell. Even though she tried to force the issue of her and Max, she could not deny the attraction she felt for Kyle. He seemed to care for her simply because she was Tess, not caring that she was alien. All of this warranted more attention and time, but for now she was hungry and wanted to eat. The last words she heard from Liz stopped her for a moment as she remembered what Lyssaria had told her.

She had just stabbed the only girl that ever posed a threat to the crown yet the girl did not hold hate in her eyes.

"It's ok Ava. I forgive you for this. If you just knew what I know about Kivar and what he has done to you."

"You don't know anything! Just shut up and die!"

Lyssaria smiled as she spoke a final time before passing out, "I forgive you Ava, in this lifetime and an all the others."

Shaking her head she wiped away the small tear before locking her emotions back in the box she kept them in. Standing tall she walked away from the garden and into the city in search for food.

[reinla]

Part Seven

Pulling Isabel along with him, they walked to where Max hid the jeep. Using his powers he uncovered the vehicle from its disguise and climbed in driving off towards the hospital. Kyle and Michael climbed into the Mustang and headed out towards the cabin, while Maria and Jim started working on ideas that would make good cover.

As the jeep flew down the street towards the hospital Max felt himself getting nervous. His fears of being inadequate were once again surfacing. He only prayed that for Alex's sake it had been Tess preventing them from healing him completely and not his inability to control his powers. Casting a glance at his sister, he realized just how nervous she was as well. "Is, there is something I want to talk to you about. I think I was able to connect to Liz earlier while I was in the shower. I don't know how but I heard her in my mind and I know it was not my imagination. It feels like my alien side is getting stronger, merging with my human side. It sounds crazy I know."

Isabel sat quietly in the jeep as she listened to Max. Her heart went out to him as he tried to grasp onto anything that would bring him comfort. She was not about to break his happy bubble for anything. "Maybe something has awakened inside of you? You know put you in touch with the side of us that makes us alien? If you really can communicate with her perhaps she can tell us how to help get her home?" Isabel mused as she placed a comforting hand on Max's shoulder.

"I know you probably don't believe me Is. The connection that I share with Liz is so different than anything I have ever felt." Max looked contemplative for a moment as he pulled into a parking space at Roswell Memorial Hospital. He could feel fear, sadness, and anger coming through his connection, knowing they had to be from Liz. He tried to send calming emotions to her hoping it would allow her to relax and him to focus. "Izzy I can feel her even now. She feels so scared and surprised, I just wish I knew what was going on."

Grabbing her brothers hand Isabel walked them from the jeep to the hospital. "Let's focus on Alex right now Max and tonight I will see if I can reach Liz for you ok?"

"Sure you guard the door for me Is, while I work my magic." He said with a light laugh.

As they approached the room they were stopped by a nurse who forced them to fill out a visitor's log. Looking at each other for a moment they signed their names as 'Rob Roy and Brandy Alexander' before handing the log back to the nurse. Smirking slightly at each other, they both headed off towards Alex's room. Isabel opened the door and let them both in before locking the door with her powers. Pulling the blinds closed to keep people from viewing inside the room, Isabel then walked over to Alex and took his left hand in hers.

Max took his position on the right of Alex, placing on hand on Alex' chest as he took a deep breath. He needed to focus right now on healing Alex and letting everything else fall away. Breathing deeply he allowed his powers to flow into Alex and heal the damage. There was something different this time, almost like the barrier that had prevented him before was gone. He could feel the damage being reversed and smiled when he saw Alex's eyes open. Pulling away he stared at his friend for a moment before looking over at Isabel.

Alex had felt himself being pulled from the darkness after what seemed like forever. The darkness kept him scared, afraid but the warmth and light that invaded his consciousness was comforting. He didn't fight it as he allowed himself to open his eyes, a small smile playing over him as he saw Isabel and Max standing there. "That's some good Alien mojo there Max" he rasped out slowly.

Isabel let out a small squeal as she hugged Alex's neck and placed a kiss on his cheek. "We have a lot to talk about but we need to get you out of here first. Max and I are going to go, pretend to get the doctor to tell us how you are and try to get them in here to see you." She said as she waived her hand to remove the silver hand print from sight. "We need to get you out of here soon."

Max nodded at Isabel as they both snuck out of the room and out of the hospital. Changing their appearances they pretended to be cousins and came back into the door. Walking over to the nurse's station, Isabel, who now had short spiky red hair spoke first, "Yo, can yous tell me how my cuz is doin' ?" Inside her head she was laughing hysterically at the way the nurses were reacting to her.

Annabeth, the nurse forced to work the station, glared at the young woman who was speaking. Shaking her head she sighed in frustration as she thought They will let anyone in here these days won't they? Putting on a sugary sweet falsetto tone she spoke, "Well if you can be a dear and tell me who your cousin is I would be happy to find out for you"

It was Max's turn to speak now, his hair falling down his back in a long blond ponytail, " 's no reason to speak to us like that. We's just here to check on our old cuz Alex Whitman. Wanna see how he's doin' 's all " Why Isabel had decided to act like this was beyond him but he was finding it hard not to laugh.

Annabeth looked over at the young man and woman with indignation on her face. "Let me see if I can get one of the doctors to tell me anything. Who should I tell him is asking?"

Isabel snorted a moment, looking perturbed, "Yo, My name's Brandy Alexander and this here is my bro Rob Roy. We jus wanna know whats up with our cuz. Now chop, chop." She said in her best ice princess tone. They were both being loud and obnoxious in hopes it would get someone to assist them.

Annabeth glared at them both before flouncing away from the desk to find the doctor. Doctor Stuart was only happy to go check on Alex and was shocked to see he was awake and talking. "Can I go home yet doc? I have been in here an awfully long time. I just wanna go home."

Doctor Stuart smiled at Alex a moment before leaving the room. Walking over to the two teens he motioned for them to follow him. "Mr. Whitman you have a couple of guests, a Ms. Brandy Alexander and a Mr. Rob Roy. It is good to see that your family is here to support you. I need to have a few tests run but once I get the results back you are free to go."

Isabel, Alex and Max waited for the doctor to leave before bursting out into peels of laughter. "I so knew those cover id's Michael gave us in Vegas would come in handy. No one will suspect a thing." Max spoke softly as he moved to stand next to Alex's bed. "I am sorry to say that your parents will not be coming to see you anytime soon. They moved out of Roswell a couple of months after you went into a coma. Michael has a few of your things at his house, your house is still there if you want to live in it."

Isabel leaned over and kissed Alex's cheek as he wrapped his arms around her waist. "It's good to see you again Izzy. I was so scared, I could feel Max trying to heal me all that time ago but something was stopping it, but today that thing was gone."

His conversation was interrupted when the doctor returned with two nurses who did some blood work and took him off for a scan. Alex was only gone twenty minutes before he was returned to his room and to his friends. "Where is everyone else?"

"They can't come, we will explain later but right now we need to get you out of here and fast. Did the doctor say how long it would be for the test results?" Isabel asked.

Just as Isabel finished her question the doctor came in with a shocked look in his face. "Well Mr. Whitman it appears that you are fine. There is no residual damage and as far as we can tell no reason to keep you here any longer. I will have a nurse draw up your release papers it shouldn't take more than ten minutes, but I want to leave you with a prescription for some medication. You may experience some headaches after being in a coma for as long as you were but the medication should help. Are your cousins going to be around to take you home?"

Alex smiled as he looked at Doctor Stuart, "Yeah. As soon as I am free to go they are gonna take me for some food. I am starving."

His reaction had them all chuckling softly as they waited for the doctor to leave again. "So who's idea was it for the disguises? Pretty original but still funny as heck."

"That would be me." Isabel said with a beaming smile. "We figured if anyone got suspicious they would never figure it out. The only one outside of our group that knows those names is the sheriff. So it was a safer bet than trying to use our own."

Alex reached out and took Isabel's hand in his squeezing it hard. Time seemed to crawl as they waited for the discharge papers to come. As soon as the nurse appeared he quickly signed the papers and pulled himself from the bed. Before they had left his parents had manged to bring him a set of pajamas he could use. Standing on shaky legs he made his way to the bathroom for a moment. "Let me use the bathroom then I am ready to go. Do you mind swinging by my house for a bit so I can shower and grab a few things?"

Max nodded that it would be fine and they left Alex for a few moments. When he came out of the bathroom he was still a bit shaky walking and Isabel put her arm around him to steady him as they walked him out of the hospital and to the jeep. Climbing in, she sat in the back with Alex as they drove away.

Arriving at Alex's house, Max used his powers to let them all in. They all headed for Alex's bedroom, Max sitting in the chair at his desk while Isabel took the bed. Once they knew it was safe they dropped their disguises. They told Alex everything that had happened after he had been put in a coma and how they were trying to find a way to get Liz back. His heart broke for Max as he watched the pain and guilt flood his friends face.

"Max stop blaming yourself. You know Liz wouldn't, and I won't allow you to wallow in guilt. Tess tricked us all but we will get Liz back. Let me hop in the shower and change then I will grab my computer and the files I have hidden even from Tess and we can head to Micheal's ok?" Alex looked at Max waiting to see his reaction.

Nodding his head Max smiled at Alex. "Take your time. I will run out and grab some food for us to take with to Micheal's I am sure the others are hungry too." With that said he left, returning in twenty minutes to find Isabel and Alex waiting for him with a bag of Alex's things and his computer. Piling into the jeep they made their way back to the apartment that would be their meeting place. It was only 2pm they still had an hour before the others were due to arrive.

~~
Michael and Kyle reluctantly climbed into the Mustang and headed out on the highway towards the cabin. It had been many years since Kyle had set foot there but he knew the way like the back of his hand. The trip took them an hour from Roswell to the deserted desert road that led to the secluded cabin. Michael took note that it seemed hidden enough that they would not get caught if they had to use their powers.

As the car came to a stop just outside the cabin Michael climbed out while speaking to Kyle. "I am going to do a perimeter search. Why don't you go inside and check to make sure that the electricity and water work and when I get inside we can check the food levels me make lists of what we will need."

Kyle nodded and headed to the front door, using the key and unlocking it. Flipping the switch just to the right of the door he was glad to see that the place still had electricity. Making a cursory walk around he took down notes of the rooms that would need light bulbs replaced. Walking into the kitchen he turned on the faucets, his face frowning when only the cold water came on. They would have to see what had happened to the hot water and so he made a note of that as he waited in the kitchen for Michael.

Michael made a thorough walk around the outside of the house. He took note of several things that could be used as potential cover. Stopping when he saw the small lake out behind the house he made a note to ask Kyle about it. If the lake had fish, they could use some of them for food instead of having to buy so much. Taking a second trip around he noticed that someone or something had taken residence in the shed but he didn't have much time to think about it now. They would worry about when they came back. Walking back into the house he took in the floor plan, drawing a quick sketch so they could plot out who got what room. Approaching the kitchen he looked up to see Kyle waiting. "Let's get this done and get back to my place."

Together they spent the next three hours cataloging the food and making a list of what they would need for their three month stay. They wanted to have to go into town as little as possible as they figured out what to do, so they made sure they would have what they need. Taking their lists with them both men locked up and drove the hour back to Micheal's apartment. They arrived at 2:15 and were suprised to see Max, Isabel and Alex laughing and having a good time without them.

"Hey this is my house. No parties allowed without me." Michael said in a laughing tone as he took a seat on the couch next to Alex. "It's good to see you back with us Alex. I know Maria will be happy to see you."

~~
Maria and Jim had spent a good hour working on a plausible cover story. Jim was going to tell the Evans' that Isabel and Max were going to be working at a summer camp in Marathon for three months. It was a camp to help foster and adopted children adjust to a normal life. Michael was going to be working there as well. They also decided to tell the Parker's that Liz was going to be working at the same camp instead of the one previous. They wanted it to look like these kids were working to get extra credit.

After coming up with their idea Jim and Maria left for the sheriff station first. He had some forms from the camp they were speaking about and he made photocopies and had written statements from all the kids that he managed to forge their handwriting. Signing them with the fake name of Zylar Plath, M.D., Ph.D to make it look official. He would bring the copies with them.

Their first stop was at the Evans' where the sheriff explained about the camp and how their kids were forced to leave right way. "With them both being adopted and they way Michael was treated as a foster child they all thought it would be good to show these young children that people do really care, that things can be better." He had been able to convince Philip and Diane that this was the best thing their children could do for the summer so they had accepted it.

The Evans' were the easiest to convince, next came Jeff and Nancy Parker. They were angry that Liz had not told them but Maria had explained that it was really short notice. "I was told at the same time and I will be joining them but my mom wasn't home when I had to have the paperwork turned in because my aunt was sick. So they are allowing me to get it signed and come in later."

Nancy regarded her daughter's best friend for a moment. "Just make sure she sends us a post card once a month at least. If we don't hear from here we will go pick her up is that clear."

Maria nodded her head, realizing that they were only agreeing with it because Maria was going to be there. So she smiled and hugged them both and promised that they would keep in touch.

The last stop was at her house for her to deal with her mother. Amy had not been entirely happy to hear that Maria was going to be away for three whole months but she was willing to let her daughter go. Her fear turned to exasperation when she learned that Michael was going to be there as well.

"I understand your concern's Amy, but all of her friends will be there including my son. I know if anyone would make sure nothing happened it would be Kyle. I think this is a great way for your daughter to make an impact on someone's life, and who knows these children might just change all of their lives for the better." Jim smiled as he watched Amy's acquiesce.

When all of their covers had been made and the parents had been given the proper paperwork, Maria packed up the rest of her things and they snuck back over for more of Liz's things. She knew that Max and Isabel would need to sneak more clothes if they were to be gone three whole months. Once everything was gathered they headed back to Micheal's apartment. They were the last to arrive; at 2:30 they came bounding through the door.

Maria stopped in her tracks as she saw Alex, dropping her things she ran and hugged him. She was crying softly at having her other best friend back, now they just needed to bring Liz home.

~~
"Now that everyone is here, we need to fill Alex in on what's going and and give a status report." Max spoke with authority in his voice.

Everyone gathered around as they explained the last few months to Alex who was angry about what Tess had done. Once that had been taken care of Kyle and Michael discussed what needed to be done about the cabin and food. They divided the task amongst themselves on who was to do what. Maria explained their cover stories and was surprised to see the shock and adoration on everyone's face about the type of camp they would be helping at.

The teens sat around for the rest of the afternoon looking over the rough map of the house and deciding who was going to stay where. As night time came they all said their good nights and curled up in their sleeping bags around the apartment, knowing that tomorrow they would get up before dawn and get the supplies they needed before heading out.

[reinla]

Just a quick thanks and a few words to those that left me feed back:
nibbles2: Your so sweet!
Eve: Cause they are completely clueless and lame...
Kris: hope this next part is as good as the last...
dreamerfiend: always!
Jan: Max is going to the most uber person here soon
Natalie36: always!
Monica Trust me I know busy. Full time work, full time school for Criminal Justice and Pre-law. But no worries! Oh and it's not my birthday, yet at least.
keepsmiling7: a girls gotta keep some things secret or no one will read
Cocogurl: Thanks!
tequathisy: If he doesn't I will smack him upside the head.

Part Eight

Tess walked slowly down the streets of the city that once saw her as a queen. It was hard remembering so much of her previous life and trying to mix it with what was her reality. The conversation she had just overheard had shattered her illusions about everything Nesado had told her. She could still remember him beating her as he raged..

"You are worthless, filled with so many human emotions. Why did I have to get stuck with the defective queen? Don't you know anything? I know you remember what it was like to be Ava, to be the queen. You were made for Zan! He was in love with you then and he will love you now and you will go back home bearing the heir. I refuse to get stuck on the rock heap for the rest of my life. Now do as you are told and learn to control your powers better or you are never going to convince Max you belong with him!"

When they had first arrived in Roswell after getting the signal from Michael, all Tess had wanted to do was confess everything to them. Her fear for Nesado kept her quiet and she was suffering for it even now. She needed time to think, to prove one way or another if what Zol said was true. Her memories of Antar flittered through her head and she made her way to the royal archives.

It was impossible to keep information hidden since all data discovered was automatically transferred to disks in the archives. Lucky for Tess, only someone with a link to the royal family could enter the archives and she really just wanted to be alone to discover the truth.

Approaching the building, Tess placed her hands against the door and pushed slightly. This was the easy part, the outer chamber was accessible to everyone, it was only the inner chambers that were guarded. Looking around she tried to focus on the words that were carved above each door. Some of the symbols were familiar to her, others not so much. Turning to her right she took the far right door and placed her hand on it, watching as the seal was released and the door pushed open.

Entering the dark room she snapped her fingers and lit a myriad of candles making the room glow softly. She had not made it very far into the room when the door shut again and reopened. Spinning she was surprised at who she saw standing in the doorway now. Her gaze was cautious, afraid of what the other person might do.

~~
Liz had desperately wanted to leave the garden, to get away from Zol for a while so she could think. She had felt Max through their connection as he tried to send her calming emotions but it only eased her slightly. She was agitated and scared about everything she had been told.

The scientific part of her brain was arguing that she needed to see the proof of what the man was telling her but her heart was trying to convince her to take him at his word. She so desperately wanted to cling to the knowledge that everything was going to be ok, that she was simply just a human who had managed to meet the kindest, most loving alien on her planet.

Stopping just outside the gate to the garden, Liz looked back over her shoulder and sighed. "Do you have any sort of place that stores this data? I doubt that anything even as important as this would not be written down. Please I want to see it, I need to see it."

Zol had been watching Liz as she tried to process everything she had been told. It was tough, there was so much information to absorb and when she asked to see the proof he almost had to hide his smile. She was already starting to act like Lyssaria, though he hoped that the people would not notice her before he could get her safely back to earth to be with Zan. "Of course. We have the royal archives. I can take you as far as the entrance lobby but it is up to you to see if you can get inside. You see no one but a member of the royal family will be able to activate and release the seal that is holding the door closed."

Liz paused a moment as she thought about what he was saying. If he had been right and she was truly Rath's half-sister and the one that Zan wanted to be queen would the seal recognize her and allow her inside. This would be the first test of trust between herself and Zol. "Let's go then. I would love to learn about Antar and it's past. Do you think that after the archives you might be able to show me some of the science labs around?"

Zol almost laughed out loud as he shook his head. He would show her anything her heart desired, for she was just like Lyssaria. "Sure we can do that. Though you might want to save it for tomorrow. There is quite a bit of information in the archives to go through." As he spoke he led her in the direction of the Royal Archives and entered the main lobby.

Liz looked around with huge eyes as she took in everything she was seeing. It looked like pictures of ancient Greek archives, which she found amazing. Walking quietly into the room Liz looked around trying to figure out which room was the one she needed. Nothing of the language even seemed remotely familiar so she closed her eyes and tried to think of her next steps.

Zol could see her uncertainty so he waited for her to shut her eyes and gently turned her in the direction of the room she was seeking. Each of the archives dealt with past rulers of the planet including Zan. He pushed her gently forwards waiting door housing the disks that would tell her about her true destiny. "Go on little one. Find the truth behind the lies and find the path that will set you free."

~~
Liz walked forward to the door in front of her with a bit of trepidation. There on the door was a silver handprint, slowly Liz raised her hand and pressed against the image. The soft whirring and clicking of the lock was the only indication that the door was opening. Pushing slightly she saw the door open and walked into a rather large alcove. In the center of the room was an object that looked similar to the granilith surrounded by shelves and shelves of disks.

Her gaze landed on Tess and for a moment Liz just stood there. Suddenly something inside of her snapped, as all the memories of betrayal came to the surface. Charging she tackled Tess to the ground and started hitting her. Her hands pulled hair and tried to punch as much flesh as she could reach.

Tess fought back as much as she could with her fists while trying to distract Liz enough to get her powers in. She could understand the anger and hatred coming from the other girl but as Liz grew more violent towards her she prayed silently that she would live.

Liz felt herself getting stronger, felt power coursing through her. Risking a glance down at her hands she saw green lightning surfacing. As she reached out to hit Tess one last time with her power, both girls were thrown away from each across the room.

Both girls stood and approached the now glowing object in the center of the room. Fear and trepidation clear on each of their faces. Both girls knew about the granilith but they had been told that the only version was on earth, in the form of the ship that they traveled to Antar with. Reaching out, both Tess and Liz placed their hands on the dark onyx crystal.

"Here I have before me the two queens of Antar. Ava the queen of old, who died and was reborn to carry on the cycle of betrayal and deceit. Lyssaria the queen of new, who died and was reborn to assume her rightful place beside King Zan and to help Ava overcome her past.. Both women strong and independent, so alike yet different." A disembodied voice spoke sending images into their minds. The granilith was much more than a ship, it was a sentient being an object of both fear and worship.

The granilith showed both girls their past lives, how Lyssaria had always tried to befriend Ava and help her adjust to life in the palace. How Ava had always questioned why her dear brother wanted her to to marry the king that he hated so much. After showing them their lives the images changed to that of the others. Showing the true intentions of Kivar, how Vilondra never betrayed her brother, how Rath truly felt like their family. Small gaps were heard from the girls as various images were shown. The most important images were to come next and though it would cause both girls pain, the granilith knew they needed to be shown in order for the girls to make the choice needed.

Kivar stood silent on the cliff edge overlooking the capital city of Antar. His plans had been going well up to and including the creation of Ava. She was the first successful hybrid but no one would know if he had anything to do about it. He needed someone on the inside but his skins were too easily recognized as a foreign alien so he had sought out one of the top scientists on the planet. With the right kind of money his plan had been successful.

They had taken his DNA and mixed it with some human slave named Tressa Harding. At first he had questioned why they chose humans and the answer had been surprising. "Humans are the only other beings that we have found that possess the ability to learn and master these 'gifts' as we call them. While it is true that they only use about ten percent of their brains with the right adaptations and modifications they could easily have powers like we do, simply by tapping into that unused portion. There bodies are also more stable for our purposes and unlike the other test subjects have shown the ability to withstand all of our modifications."

He had agreed and his perfect solider had been created. He had given her his mind control powers and instructed her on their proper use and implementation, or his version anyway. He had lied to the girl from the beginning telling her she was his sister and that their parents died so he raised her. He taught her his hate and anger at the ruling party of Antar, his desire to take the throne. What he never showed her were his plans once he had the throne. Zan wanted to unite the five planets together to form one alliance, Kivar wanted to destroy the other planets including Antar so that only his planet would be superior.

She had been easy to get into the palace, simply reminding the current king and queen about the human status of the one their son chose was enough to get the girl thrown out and Ava considered as a proper candidate. Now here he stood on the eve of her wedding to Zan, making the final preparations for the battle that would change the tide. He had just received her signal and led his army to the palace gates.

Ava was standing there waiting to let them in when Lyssaria appeared. Both knew what was about to happen and the younger girl plead with Ava to turn back that they would keep her safe from Kivar. The battle came quick and Ava had stabbed Lyssaria but it wasn't enough to do any damage it had been merely for impression. She had fled soon after to try to warn the others of the impending attack. The true Ava had realized that she cared deeply for this family and wanted no harm.

Kivar had been angered and found Lyssaria still alive, his rage and anger growing. Grabbing the girl by the hair he shoved her into one of the side rooms that was empty. The small storehouse was almost empty, all of its contents being used at the feast prior. Lyssaria fell to her knees as her wound was jarred from the force of Kivar's assault.

Steadily he approached her using his powers to send her flying into the back wall, smiling at the sickening crunch her head made contact with the wall. Shaking her head Lyssaria tried to stand but her powers alone were no match for Kivar. He knew only she would be able to tell him where the granilith was, for she was its keeper even though she was human and with it he would be able to destroy Zan for good.

Using his powers he continued to send her flying into various walls listening as she whimpered in pain from the assault. She refused to say anything even as she became bloodier. When Kivar realized that this method was not going to work he changed his tactics. Creating metal bindings he bound her to the wall as he approached. Smiling softly he ran his hand across her face and down her neck squeezing hard as he felt her struggle to breathe. Out of his back pocket he withdrew a special blade he had made for just this occasion. Holding onto Lyssaria Kivar tried to invade her mind but she continued to block him. As his patience grew thin and the time to strike grew closer he gave up trying to get the granilith's location from the girl.

With a sick, sadistic smirk Kivar brought the blade down against the girls skin. As he started cutting he removed his hand from her throat so he could hear her screams. Slowly he started to chop her body into pieces one limb at a time. Lyssaria died screaming, still refusing to give up the location of the sacred artifact to their enemy, or to reveal the ultimate plans of Zan. When his task was done Kivar used his powers to spread Lyssaria's body parts through out the palace in places Zan would see, before going off and finding his next target.

He had been able to dispatch each of them easily, they were all alone except for Zan. Rath had died trying to save Zan, and Ava had died trying to save Rath.

The images stopped there and both girls staggered back a bit. Liz was beyond words, fear and grief swamping through her as she watched herself murdered at the hands of the same person who was still in power now. She had seen the goodness in Ava at the very end and cast her gaze over towards Tess.

Tess had tears in hers eyes as she watched what happened to her only friend. These images had shown them the parts of their lives that were missing. Deciding within herself that history would not repeat itself she reached over and pulled Liz into a hug.

"Both of you stand before me now to make your choice. Is history going to repeat itself or has our planet and its people finally found peace. The lives of the millions of people here and back on earth are counting on you.

Ava, you are the queen of old, if you go down the current path you will die before your time, but if you choose to change you will be giving up your throne to Lyssaria. You will be setting things to the way they should have been.

Lyssaria, you are the queen of new, the one whom has always had the heart and soul of the king. Your forgiveness of Ava all those years ago is what is allowing things the chance to change. You are needed elsewhere my dear but your time here is not up. There are still things that need to be done before I can return you home." The disembodied voice spoke again for the last time. "If you are ready to make your choice step forward and place your hands against me and state your intentions."

Liz withdrew from Tess' grasp and walked towards the onyx stone placing both hands against the smooth surface. "I, Elizabeth Parker in this life, Lyssaria in the past, so choose to honor and support, Max Evans in this life, King Zan in the past, in all of his endeavors with love, honor, loyalty and respect."

Tess took a moment to gather her emotions. Everything she had been told was a lie, everything she had believed in was fabricated to assist a madman bent on world domination. Walking forward she placed shaky hands on the granilith and spoke. "I. Tess Harding in this life, Ava in the past, so choose to honor and support , Max Evans in this life, King Zan of Antar in the past, in all of his endeavors with love, honor, loyalty and respect. I so choose to break the cycle that was cast upon my people starting with Lyssaria and working our way towards Kivar. I so choose to aid in the destruction of the man that has enslaved our people for the past fifty years and who continues to try to kill us still"

Both girls stepped back as the granilith shook with power, sending out a blue pulse of energy into each of them. "The cycle of violence is not yet broken but is now weaker than before. Ava has given up her throne to the true queen and now together they must find a way to return to the royals and come back to save our planet."

With this last bit of knowledge recorded the shard of the granilith that stood in front of them disappeared, its true location still hidden until the right time. Both girls looked at each other a moment.

"I don't know how to say I am sorry. I was raised by a killer by someone who told me that things were a certain way. It took all of this for the truth to come out and now I have betrayed you all again." Tess looked at Liz as she spoke, tears falling from her eyes.

Liz pulled her former enemy into a hug. "Tess. What's important is right now. That was the past, this is the present. Let's try to figure out what else we still have to do and how to get back. They need us. Kyle needs you and we are going back."

Both girls stood in the room simply hugging each other for a few minutes. When they broke apart they both headed for the door. They were going to go back to the palace for now and try to find sometime to get together tomorrow.

"Can you hear me? I am going to send some clothes to your room so you don't have to wear the same thing. I will knock three times then leave the items outside. We have to meet in secret until we can get a plan together." Tess thought as they walked back separately to the palace. As Ava she had been able to communicate with Lyssaria through telepathy and hoped that if the green lightning was any sign that Liz had gained her powers.

Liz heard the other girl in her head but was too scared to respond. She was still in a bit of shock and just wanted to curl up in her bed and dream about Max. She entered the palace first making her way back to her room without any interruptions. Kivar was treating her somewhat ok, at least until he could figure out who she really was. She entered her room and sighed, leaning back against the door. Things had gone rather strange today, too much information loaded into her brain. She could feel a headache come on as she heard the distinct sound of three rapid knocks. Opening her door she pulled the box in, choosing to go through it tomorrow as she flopped down on her bed and slid asleep.

Tess delivered a box of clothes and a few of the soaps from her room to Liz. She too was exhausted and chose to head to sleep. It was hard to tell what time it was, she was still so used to telling the muggle way but figured it wouldn't be long before she was adjusted to this new way of life. Climbing up in her bed without bothering to change her cloths, Tess drifted off to sleep.

[reinla]

Thank you guys once again for the reviews.
Eve: They boys better or I may have to resort to violence
keepsmiling7: She better or I may not give her a happy ending
Kris: They should be heading back soon
tequathisy : Can't wait for you to read the next part.
Jan: Thank you so much for your continued support and for the bump.
Monica: I feel a dun dun dun coming on

Sorry guys for the wait. I am currently studying for my LSATS so I am very busy so I am sorry that this part is short. I have more planned just wanted to make you wait a bit longer . I lost this post about 7 times. Please enjoy the next chapter.

Part Nine

The teens sat around for the rest of the afternoon looking over the rough map of the house and deciding who was going to stay where. As night time came they all said their good nights and curled up in their sleeping bags around the apartment, knowing that tomorrow they would get up before dawn and get the supplies they needed before heading out.

Soft snoring echoed of the walls in Micheal's apartment as all but two people slept peacefully. Max had tried to close his eyes but every time he would see images of Liz, remember things about her that made him want to scream out in anguish. Fighting the urge to scream, Max simply climbed out of his sleeping bag and headed outside on the patio. He had kept Liz's journal near and decided that now was as good a time as any to start reading. Walking outside, Max took the blanket with him as he settled into one of the wicker chairs that sat haphazardly on the patio. Opening the leather bound journal, Max started reading from the beginning. With every word read he fell more in love with Liz.

Michael watched Max leave the house and head outside with a bit of fear. They all needed their sleep so that they could be prepared for whatever was to happen. His eyes held a bit of sadness as he watched his brother walk outside to the dark. He could just make out the shape of the journal as he held his breath. Since he had stolen it that day Michael had been touched at what Liz put into words. Deciding he would face his friends wrath, Michael pulled the last two Snapple out of the fridge and headed outside. "Here. Take this Snapple"

The sound of Michael's voice snapped Max out of his daze. Looking up from his reading, small tears forming in his eyes, Max took the proffered Snapple. Pushing the journal to Michael, he looked down. "Read the page I have open."

Pulling the book close Michael read the passage that Max had opened and almost dropped his drink. Liz had written about her encounter with Future Max and everything she had been told. She bared her soul about being responsible for the deaths of future versions of them all because she was selfish and wouldn't give up Max. When he had finished reading Michael handed the journal back. Whoever it was that had visited Liz could not have really known her or they would not have made her feel like she was selfish. "She loves us all Max. You have chosen well my king, Zan, now please come inside and try to get some rest."

Black eyes gazed at each others as two warriors fought internal battles. Nodding his head Max, smiled softly at Michael. "Your words are kind Rath. I knew from the beginning that she was meant to be here with us. Please leave me be, I do not wish to sleep, I will rest when we get to our destination tomorrow." Closing his eyes and taking a breath, amber eyes once again showed up replacing the black. There had been a small flash of white light that surrounded both men before disappearing, leaving them back to there normal selves.

Walking away from Max, Michael headed back inside and to the kitchen counter. Pulling out the drawing that he had made of the cabin he set about making the room arraignments. Picking up a second pencil, one in red Michael wrote everyone's initials into the boxes that represented the bedrooms. He also placed an x on the map for the places that he wanted them to explore. The shed had the biggest x on the map and a feeling of uneasiness as he thought about what might be hidden in the shed. Sighing Michael left the drawing on the counter and headed back to his room to sleep.

~~
Five hours later soft pink rays peaked into the windows rousing the apartment's inhabitants. Slowly each person started to get up and pack their sleeping bags. Isabel and Maria wanted to take a shower before they headed out but realized that there would not be enough time. Sighing they simply straitened out their clothes and started carrying their things out to the jeep.

The guys gave the apartment one last glance before Michael locked it up. Piling into the three vehicles Kyle led the way in his Mustang followed by Michael, Maria, Isabel and Alex in the Jetta with Max bringing up the rear in the jeep. The trip was uneventful as they traveled an hour before pulling over for gas and breakfast. They ate in silence as they hurried to get back on the road to the cabin.

While the girls made a trip to the bathroom Michael pulled the guys aside to speak with them. "When we get there I want us to check out a few places before we settle down officially. I didn't want to say anything with the girls around because I don't want to worry them but I think there might be something living in the shed." Before anyone could respond the girls were back to the cars and everyone piled in to finish the trip.

~~
Arriving at the cabin all six teens took in the view. Maria and Isabel grabbed each others hands as they squealed in joy. Stepping up to the plate Michael took charge once again. "Ok I have made the sleeping arraignments. Grab your things and follow me I will show you where you can set them down." Grabbing his bag Michael walked into the house without waiting to see if anyone was following. The others followed in close behind, having grabbed their bags as requested.

Stopping in front of the first of the guest rooms Michael smiled. "Isabel you and Alex will be in here. Kyle gets the room next door to himself. Maria and I will be across the hall from Kyle with Max getting the master. Ladies we shall leave you to freshen up while us manly men go in search of food and other things." Smirking at Maria, Michael stared at her a moment before pulling her into a kiss. The sound of someone clearing their throat forced the two apart as Michael pushed her into the room and tossed his bag down.

Gathering in the living room, the guys went over the map that Michael had made trying to decide which was the most important part to explore first.

"I say we check out the shed. It seems to be the biggest space and could pose the most danger." Alex suggested.

Smiling Kyle laughed as he realized that each of therm were thinking the same thing. Max stood off to the side of the group lost in thought. He just wanted to curl up in bed and sleep forever. His focus was shot and he only wanted to drift off into the dream world where Liz was in his arms. Michael saw the look on Max's face but knew that this was not the time for any of them to be weak. Leading the group out he literally pushed Max in front of him as the men headed out to the shed.

~~
Approaching the building slowly Max and Michael took positions in the front while Kyle and Alex took positions just around the corner. Raising their hands the two alien men blasted the doors open only to be stopped short at the sight they saw. The shed was trashed and dark, light streaming in behind them from the doorway. Instantly green shields surrounded Michael and Max as they saw the white blasts head their way.

Kyle and Alex realized that this was an Alien only situation and chose to stay back until they could enter the battle and not be casualties. Strange sounds filled their ears as they listened to the sounds of scuffling and fighting. Peaking around the corner, Kyle caught Alex's eye making a hand gesture to stay where he was.

Inside the shed Max and Michael were trying to help a disoriented Rath and Zan fight of Nicholas and Nasedo. While Rath and Zan were more in touch with their alien side alone they were no match for their enemies. Energy blasts flew around hitting various objects but not making any real progress until Max suddenly felt himself shift into a deeper part of his powers. Eyes glazing black green energy shot out of his hand hitting Nicholas square in the chest, frying the husk to pieces. Turning to the others he noticed that Zan, Rath and Michael seemed to share his black eyes. Each alien held up their hand focusing the power on Nasedo. As one they all took two steps forward watching as their once protector met a quick and painful death.

As soon as Nasedo's body fell to the floor Max felt the energy pool leave him as he stumbled back before collapsing to the ground unconscious. Instantly Michael was at his side, shield in place as he watched Zan and Rath approach.

"Relax gee. We ain't here to hurt the boy. Come on we gotta get him inside so's we can talk."

Michael simply nodded at Zan as he picked Max up off the floor, carrying his brother inside. Depositing the body on the bed, Michael shut the door and headed to the living room. He still did not trust the dupes especially since Zan was supposed to be dead along with Rath.

[reinla]

Aww thank you guys for the reviews again.
Jan: I love your feedback but I wont tell you my secrets
Eve: I hope that chapter 11 will answer your question
keepsmiling7 : I agree Nasedo needed to die
tequathisy : There is no I in team
Kris: Chapter 11 will answer your questions or some of them anyways
Natalie36 : Thanks!

I am so sorry this is so late. I am trying to have them up fairly quickly but school has me swamped already. Now without any ado here is chapter ten

Part Ten

Liz heard the other girl in her head but was too scared to respond. She was still in a bit of shock and just wanted to curl up in her bed and dream about Max. She entered the palace first making her way back to her room without any interruptions. Kivar was treating her somewhat ok, at least until he could figure out who she really was. She entered her room and sighed, leaning back against the door. Things had gone rather strange today, too much information loaded into her brain. She could feel a headache come on as she heard the distinct sound of three rapid knocks. Opening her door she pulled the box in, choosing to go through it tomorrow as she flopped down on her bed and slid asleep.

Tess delivered a box of clothes and a few of the soaps from her room to Liz. She too was exhausted and chose to head to sleep. It was hard to tell what time it was, she was still so used to telling the muggle way but figured it wouldn't be long before she was adjusted to this new way of life. Climbing up in her bed without bothering to change her cloths, Tess drifted off to sleep.

Warm sunlight streamed through the windows as Tess roused from her sleep. All throughout her dreams she pondered over options of what to do. She knew that her pact with the granolith and Liz would not be broken by anything but death. She also knew it would be harder to plan with Liz if the girl was so far away. Kivar may have tried to claim the throne but Tess had the true power. Smiling to herself Tess prepared for the day. When she knew she was perfectly ready she slammed through her door and towards wherever Kivar was.

The halls were empty and so was the room adjoined to hers so Tess headed towards the throne room. Sitting sprawled out on the throne with no dignity to how he looked Kivar was barking orders to the servants. Slamming open the doors to announce her presence, Tess smirked at Kivar as everyone in the room stared in shock at her appearance.

"Kivar if you would be so kind as to send everyone home, there Is something that we must discuss."

"You cannot just waltz in here and take over. I am in charge! I am the king." Kivar growled out.

Smirking slightly Tess approached with confidence as she leaned into Kivar hissing, "Unless you want me to point out the lovely people that the queens of old and new have returned I suggest that you treat me with a little more respect. Now I have a proposition for you, are you going to listen or am I going to have to embarrass you?"

Growling in anger Kivar stood from the throne trying to intimidate Tess with his size. "Now listen here Ava. I am in charge and I make the threats around here but as you put it I don't want the others to know about her return just yet so I will hear you out." Turning to his guests Kivar bowed slightly and spoke. "Excuse us. Ava and I have some things to discuss. I will call you again when the time is right."

After the guests had left Kivar turns to Tess and snarls " There are you happy. They are gone, now what do you want."

"I wanted to make a deal with you. You know the custom to allow warriors a chance to take the trials. If you recall, Zan challenged you to the trials for the throne the first time but you chickened out. My deal is this...Liz and I will participate in the trials. If we win you let us return to earth and you will not come after us."

Stroking his chin with his left hand Kivar thought about the offer that Tess presented. Public execution of the queen would not have the same impact on the citizens as that of the royal court. He needed the king to make an appearance or he risked loosing everything by killing Tess and the interloper too soon. "If you pass which I doubt you will... I will allow you and the other to return to earth, If you lose you will both me mine to do with as I wish. Those are the terms."

Thinking a moment Tess nodded her head in agreement. She would need to meet with Liz and prepare. "I agree. If you will excuse me Liz and I need to prepare."

~~
The distant sounds of various door slamming shut woke Liz from her dream. Her dreams were getting stranger each moment. She had almost believed she was standing behind Max on the patio to Michael's apartment as he read from her diary. She could still feel the surge of power flow from her into the parts of both men that were Zan and Rath. It was just like the power that had coursed through her when she touched the granilith. It was surreal yet she knew it had to be a dream.

Yawning a moment, Liz stretched on the bed as she looked around the room again. Sighing in defeat she pulled herself from the bed and sorted through the box of clothes that Tess had brought for her. For a girl that she always thought hated her, Tess had provided Liz with some rather amazing clothes. Digging through the box a huge smile lit up on her face as she discovered the strawberry body wash and shampoo.

Grabbing up the things she wanted, Liz headed for the shower to prepare for another day. As she reached the bathroom there was a knock on her door. Groaning in defeat, Liz headed to her the door. With a frown she opened the door wide prepared to yell at someone when she saw a young woman about the age of twenty standing there.

"Sorry to bother you miss. I have been instructed to help you gather your things to move into Lady Ava's room."

Liz smiled at the girl before blushing in embarrassment. She hated that she had almost yelled at the girl. "Oh ok. Just let me put these things back in the box." Moving back to the bed Liz tossed her things in the box and picked it up. Walking to the door she cast one last glance around the room. "This is everything that I need. I apologize for earlier but this has not been easy for me."

"It is ok miss Lyssaria. It is a pleasure to see you again after all this time. Please I must apologize, follow me."

Liz followed the young woman towards the room that Tess had been staying it. Hearing her alien name was strange to her ears, her first instinct was to correct the poor woman but she had already offended her.

~~
As the door opened Tess smiled at both girls before pulling Liz inside the room. "Thank you Aisha. I appreciate your help. Will you please take this letter to Rena and ask her to make an appearance?"

Curtsying Aisha spoke, "Of course my lady. I will do that posthaste." Grabbing the letter the young girl left in search of her next job.

Liz took a moment to study the room, the box having been dropped on the spare bed. The room was amazing and so much more amazing that she had ever dreamed. Completely lost in the moment she failed to notice the look on Tess' face.

Watching Liz brought a small smile to Tess' face. "This was your room at the palace before your father sought to have you exiled from the royal line. You shared this room with me after the marriage between Zan and myself was arranged. Ava chose Lyssaria to be her personal maid. While it is true that there was some tension between the two, Ava always felt that if given the chance Lyssaria would try to steal Zan back. I see know though that he was never Ava's nor will he ever be mine."

Walking towards her bed, Tess threw herself down on top of it, giggling as she almost bounced off onto the floor. Liz let out a small giggle as she watched the other girls antics. It was hard at a time like this to forget who they were and where they were.

"If you will just point me in the direction of the shower. I was interrupted before I could take mine." Liz spoke softly.

Pointing to the door on the far left side Tess did not move from her spot. "After your shower we have some things to discuss. I found us a way home but it will not be easy. I only ask that you keep your mind open."

Leaving Tess to do her own thing, Liz quickly took a shower and dressed in a knee length dress the color of onyx. The dark inky black seemed to suck all of the light from the room making it impossible not to notice. Stepping into the bedroom Liz looked a bit sheepish as she realized that she was wearing Ava's clothes and they fit her perfectly.

"I knew we were the same size. Don't feel bad about wearing it. They are as much yours now as they are mine." Biting her lip a moment Tess motion for Liz to come sit on the bed. When Liz took a seat Tess grabbed the brush and started to run it through the brown locks of he girl in front of her. "I realize that we may never become close friends. Too much in our past may prevent us from even trusting each other. There are things that neither of us truly know, things that the granilith showed us to be true. Just know this, the pledge I made is one I will keep."

As Tess was brushing her hair, Liz felt herself relax and get sleepy. She knew that the words were spoken from the heart and commended Tess for speaking them. "You said that you had a plan to get us back home? What did you come up with?"

Running her free hand through the hair to remove the knots as she alternated between brush strokes. "I realize that there is much about our former lives that you don't remember so please try to keep an open mind. It is rare that an heir to the throne is challenged for the right to rule. A series of three trials are set in place, each testing on different things. The first is the easiest, its a simple mental challenge, a series of puzzles to solve, The second is a battle of strength, a test of ones powers. The third is the hardest, its a physical battle. The problem is both of us must preform in these challenges or we don't go home. I know I should have talked to you first but it was now or never."

It took Liz a while to focus on the words that Tess was speaking. She had always found that having her hair brushed as being relaxing. "You did what you thought was best for us at the time. The only thing is, I don't have much experience with my powers. Together I am sure we can think of something."

~~
A firm knock on the door broke the conversation between the two girls as they both called out for the visitor to enter. Opening the doorway a tall athletic women walked in. Her hair was an unusual shade of blue and she had several piercings. Rena was wearing a pair of black denim carpenter pants with a chain from the belt loop to the back pocket and a black tank top. The smirk on her face was one to rival any Liz had seen.

"So nice of you to drop by Rena. I see you got my message."

"That I did Aves. Lyssaria good to see you again. We don't have time to waste Ava. You know that you only get one week to prepare for the Trials before you must face them. We have much to do."

Liz looked between the two women as they spoke. Rena was dressed contrary to everything that she had seen so far. "The name is Liz. I don't remember much of who I used to be. Tess here knows more about that time than I do. Side effect of being born human I guess. It is nice to meet you Rena."

Tess laughed softly as she saw her old friend standing before her. "You always had to be the rebel didn't you Rena. Never one to conform to the rules governing our society."

"You know it girl. Now are we going to get started. If you loose you die and I will not watch you die again." Turning her attention to Liz, Serena studied the girl for a moment. "You are just as I remember you. Still as beautiful as ever, I bet Zan fell for you all over again. Listen your highness. I mean no disrespect there are few like myself who know the truth about the events that shattered our world fifty years ago. Time moves differently here than it does on earth but that is another story. We need to get you prepared"

The conversation for the next several hours focused on the three trials themselves. Liz felt a strange pull towards Rena but did not know why. It was decided amongst the three of them that though they had to work together Liz would be responsible for the first since she was better at puzzles while Tess would focus on the second. The third may very well be the end of them but Serena hoped that she would have them trained enough.

"I must say goodnight for now. You both need your rest, we will start fresh with discussions tomorrow morning after breakfast. Sleep well my dear friends for tomorrow is a new day." Serena spoke before leaving.

Both Tess and Liz rubbed their eyes in sleep as they yawned. Forgetting for the moment that they weren't alone both girls changed into sleep clothes before crawling into their beds.

"Good night Liz."

"Good night Tess. See you for breakfast."