The Fourth (AU, K/T, CC ADULT) (Complete)

[Icalynn]

Thank you all for the feedback, it means so much to me...

Flamehair- Well, my muse went on strike for a few days, but it's back!
eric1978- Yes, it was, but all things have a reason.
Rowedog- Maria wasn't thinking, hence opening her mouth before thinking.
Fehrbaby- Hee! Okay, I'm updating... I'm hoping to read something too!
killjoy- Yeah, it's typical Maria, and they will talk about it.
cassie- I'm glad you were able to catch up!

Here's the next part- don't be surprised at the more or less of a cliffhanger at the end, the part was getting really long and I'm not finished with it. I found a break that would work well, so yeah. It was either post a little now with more of a cliffhanger or you'd have to wait longer... I hope you'd prefer an update instead of waiting! *g*

Enjoy!

~ 51~

It took Maria only a minute to realize that she was in the wrong and dashed up the stairs, cursing at Kyle and his ability to teleport with ease.

"Tess!" She called out as she entered the room, frowning as she noticed the suitcase open on the bed. "What-"

"You know," Kyle began as the couple turned to her. "This isn't-"

"No," Tess sighed, quickly wiping her tears away. "I want to hear what she has to say."

Maria sighed with relief. "I'm sorry-"

"You should be," Kyle grumbled and Tess slapped him in the arm. "Hey."

"Shush," Tess groaned. "This is between Maria and me, go get something to eat."

"What?" He gasped, shaking his head.

"I said, go get something to eat." Tess stated, raising her brow as she glanced at Maria. "We need to talk."

"Fine," Kyle sighed, disappearing from their sight as he teleported away.

"I'm surprised he walks at all," Maria offered, forcing a smile to her face.

"No, kidding." Tess nodded. "Have you tried it? It's such a rush."

Maria made a face. "Are you kidding?" She laughed, shaking her head. "You didn't see it when he had no control over it- I so didn't want to end up in the toilet."

Tess laughed, glancing down at the floor, not sure where to even begin. "Yeah."

Maria swallowed hard, wringing her hands. "I shouldn't have said anything- I just." Maria began after a momentary pause. "Sometimes I have a habit of speaking without really thinking- and I was just upset." She bit her lip. "How, how much did you hear?"

"Kyle was taking too long and I just couldn't sleep without him," Tess whispered. "So, I followed him down- I wasn't there for long, but I heard the bulk of your rant. Mainly the 'everything is different and that my very presence has destroyed the group' rant." Tess whispered, tears springing to her eyes.

Maria stiffened as she heard her words repeated back to her. "Ouch. Way to go Deluca."

"Is it really that bad?" Tess questioned. "Please, I didn't-"

"Oh, no. No." Maria amended quickly. "I've never seen Kyle so happy- and even with all this weird alien shit, he has seemed to have more of a purpose, ya know?"

"Then why?" She whispered, rubbing at her stubborn tears.

Maria bit her lips, remembering her heated conversation with Michael only hours ago. "Your delightful brother broke up with me." She admitted, tears pricking her eyes. "I just, oh!"

"He what?" Tess gasped, her eyes widening. "So, you just needed to snap at someone and I'm the lucky contender."

"Yeah," Maria nodded. "Oh, and the fact you happen to be his beautiful, perfect, sister."

Tess couldn't help but smile at the comment. "I'm hardly perfect, as you so pointed out earlier."

"Sorry," She exhaled.

"I forgive you," Tess smiled, reaching out to her and they hugged briefly.

"See, you are perfect." Maria sobbed as Tess rubbed her back. "And I have a big mouth."

"Hush," Tess sighed, shaking her head. "If anything it's Michael's fault."

"When is it not?" Maria groaned as she wiped at her tears. "God, Tess, how can you even forgive me?"

Tess titled her head, "I thought because I was beautiful and perfect?"

Maria nodded, smiling. "Yeah, something like that."

"So, how about we go kick my brother's ass for breaking your heart?" Tess offered as they turned to the door to see Kyle standing there with his mouth hanging open.

"He what?" Kyle gasped as his eyes flickered once more. "I'm going to kick his ass!" He growled as he suddenly disappeared from their sight.

Tess and Maria shared a glance. "He wouldn't, would he?" Tess questioned, both knowing the answer.

Without another word they both scrambled down the stairs. "This so isn't good," Maria grumbled as she grabbed for her car keys on the table and they made their way out to the car.

~

"Guerin," Kyle growled as he stormed into Michael's bedroom. "Get your ass up now!" He ordered as Michael glanced up at him in shock.

"What the fuck?" He grumbled as he sat up in bed. "How'd you-" he began suddenly realizing that he teleported into his apartment unannounced.

"I told you if you hurt Maria I'd so kick your ass." Kyle began. "And I so don't care if I'm supposed to protect your royal ass. You're dead."

"I have no fucking clue what you are talking about," he stammered as he stood up. "What's wrong with Maria?"

"You dumped her?" He drawled. "Does that ring any bells?"

"It was just a precaution-" Michael quickly amended. "We do have a history of breaking up and getting back together."

"What?" Kyle groaned. "Since when?"

"Make up sex is the best," He grinned.

Kyle growled, not liking the answer or the proceeding hour. "Not good enough," he hissed as he Kyle punched Michael in the gut.

"Damn, Valenti." He cursed, rubbing at his abdomen. "What's gotten into you?"

"You're thoughtless," Kyle groaned. "You do realize your actions have not only upset Maria, but your sister too."

"My sister?" Michael gasped, his eyes widening in alarm. "What's the matter with Tess?"

"Maria was upset and she snapped," he explained, rubbing at his neck. "Tess got in the way-"

"Oh," he whispered. "I didn't want to hurt either of them- I love them."

"Then why the fuck did you break up with Maria?" Kyle groaned.

Michael glanced away, scratching his brow. "Because, I don't want her to get hurt- look what happened to you, to Liz."

"Well, she is," he snapped. "She loves you- I never understood why, but she does." Kyle paused, his eyes widening as a thought occurred to him. "I think it hurts her even more that I'm now engaged to Tess and you've not once attempted to make more of a commitment."

Michael blinked. "Huh?"

"She still lives at her parents, and yet, here you are, living in your own place for years." Kyle continued. "Why haven't you asked her to move in with you?"

"That's really none of your business." Michael snapped.

"Oh, I beg to differ." He groaned. "Maria is my sister, Tess is your sister. We are family in every way that counts."

"So," Michael shrugged as he turned away and stalked to the kitchen.

"So?" Kyle repeated, quickly following at his heels. "After all these years you are still pathetic. Maria's better off without you."

Michael stiffened. "Fine."

Kyle growled, feeling his body heat up as his anger rose. "Buddha, forgive me, I'm so kicking your ass."

"You wouldn't," Michael challenged as raised his hand, ready to fight if necessary.

"I am," Kyle snorted as he grabbed his arm, catching him off guard as he pinned him to the counter.

"Fuck you," Michael growled as he attempted to pull away, freezing as he noticed Kyle starting to glow. "Uh, Kyle?" He gasped, his anger fading away as he continued to stare at Kyle.

"What?" Kyle questioned, confused as he lessened his hold, suddenly feeling a surge of power run through his body.

"You're glowing," he stated.

"No," Kyle gasped, his eyes widening in horror as he glanced down, his eyes flickering back and forth. He pulled away from Michael, trying to take a deep breath and calm himself.

"What's going-" Michael began as he tentatively reached out to him.

A blast of light encompassed them and the next thing they knew they were no longer standing in Michael's kitchen.

~

Maria and Tess raced up the stairs to the apartment. "I don't hear anything," Tess commented as she opened the door with a wave of her hand. "Kyle? Michael?"

"Where are they?" Maria questioned as she glanced around the room and then quickly crossed back to the bedroom.

"That's odd," Tess mused. "Where could they have gone?"

Maria shrugged as her cell phone began to vibrate against her hip. "Hello?"

"Maria," Liz sighed. "Something happened, the granolith-"

"The granolith?" Maria interrupted, her heart skipping a beat as she glanced over at Tess. "Does this have something to do with Michael and Kyle being MIA?"

"Kyle yes," Liz replied softly. "Michael- well that would explain the intensity of it."

"What's going on?" Tess questioned, feeling out of the loop.

"Liz said it's the granolith-" Maria explained and Tess' eyes widened.

"The granolith?" Tess gasped. "Oh, no. Not again."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thank you, chanks_girl, Fehrbaby, killjoy, alizaleven, and Flamehair for the great feedback...

Enjoy!

~ 52~

Michael sucked in a quick breath as he looked around their new surroundings. "Where are we?" He whispered as he glanced over at Kyle and the chamber they appeared to be in. "This is familiar," he stated. "Kyle?"

"Someone called me," Kyle whispered, his heart sinking as he glanced around the dome shaped chamber, his eyes resting on the stone granolith in the center. Antar. "This wasn't supposed to happen," he sighed as he turned his gaze to Michael. "How do you feel?"

Michael shrugged. "I feel fine."

"Tess wasn't at first," Kyle remarked crossing toward the archway, not seeing anyone else. "Neither was I, but then again I was mostly human. Perhaps because of your build you're able to adjust easier to the atmosphere."

Michael paused, suddenly realizing what Kyle was alluding to. "Antar?" He gasped as he looked around them, realizing why it felt so familiar. "How?"

"I don't know," Kyle snapped as he turned to Michael. "I had no control over my powers- someone called me here, forced the Granolith."

"I did," Enai stated from the other side of the chamber. "I called upon the guardian-" he sighed. "I did not realize that you, my king, would be called."

"Enai," Kyle sighed. "We've talked about the 'my king' business. Please, it's just Kyle."

"My king?" Michael snorted. "Oh, that's new."

"You understood us?" Kyle gasped as he turned to Michael, his eyes widening as he realized that they had been speaking in Antarian since they had arrived on Antar moments ago.

"Why wouldn't I?" Michael questioned, with a shrug not even realizing that they were speaking in a foreign tongue, his natural tongue.

"Rath," Enai gasped as he studied him briefly, immediately dropping to his knees. "My King."

"What?" Michael gasped as he rubbed at his chest, suddenly feeling a burning sensation. "Kyle? What the-" he paused, suddenly crying out with pain as the royal seal briefly glowed on his chest, before dissolving into nothing. "Fuck."

"The seal," Kyle whispered in awe. "You are the King."

"The hell I am," Michael growled. "Max is the King."

"But, Max is not here- you are." Kyle explained as Enai nodded. "The granolith has transferred the seal to you in Max's absence. You are the King."

Michael blinked, his eyes flickering and forming into his blue Antarian eyes. "Kyle," He hissed. "What the fuck is going on?"

Kyle shrugged, not knowing the answers. "How was it possible to bring us here- we weren't even near the granolith."

Enai paused, staring at him briefly. "Are you not the guardian?"

"Yes," Kyle nodded. "I am one of two."

"The power of granolith is in you," Enai began, smiling fondly at him. "The guardians have the ability to transport by the power of the granolith without being in direct contact. I was not sure I would get through to anyone on Earth, I intended to leave word for the Royal Four to return, to engage in battle with Khivar." Enai sighed. "I did not mean to bring you forth."

"But, you did." Kyle sighed, sharing a glance with Michael. "How was it possible to bring both of us?"

"You are the stronger of the two guardians," Enai speculated. "The granolith connected with you and it must have tapped into Rath's powers to bring both you here, although that is not what I had planned."

"What did you plan?" Michael questioned with little patience.

Kyle nodded. "Why did you call me here?"

"I had no choice," he sighed, wringing his hands in front of him. "Ares is missing."

"Ares?" Michael gasped, his eyes widening. "What happened?"

"His transport was attacked last night," Enai groaned. "He has been missing ever since- we fear he's in the hands of our enemy."

"Khivar," Michael hissed. "We have to get him back."

"Yes, my king." Enai nodded, gazing at them with hope. "You shall stay?"

"Michael and I have no choice but to stay," Kyle acquiesced as he gazed at the granolith. "I will leave word with Liz, only then will we decide on our next move."

"What he said," Michael grunted, crossing his arms over his chest, suddenly realizing that they must look odd to Enai, since they were both only wearing a pair of sweat pants.

~

Kyle reached out and touched the granolith, gasping in surprise as he found himself in what appeared to be a dreamscape of sorts. The granolith provided him the luxury of a forest background on a bright sunny day- he could almost feel the warmth of the sun on his skin and the light breeze.

He momentarily closed his eyes and called out to Liz.

"Liz," Kyle stated once more as she suddenly appeared in front of him.

She flung her arms around him, hugging him close. "Oh, Kyle." Liz gasped, pulling away to look at him. "What is going on? Tess and Maria are beside themselves, as are the rest of us."

"Michael and I are on Antar," he explained. "Enai triggered it, and it probably didn't help that I was pissed off with Michael and using my powers at the exact time he was trying to contact us."

"I don't understand," Liz replied, shaking her head. "I knew you were upset, I could feel the spike in your powers- and I heard the granolith call out to us."

"I didn't," Kyle sighed. "Not until it was too late."

"Are you okay?" Liz questioned softly, feeling Kyle's frustration.

"I'm fine," he replied, shaking his head. "I just hate being pulled against my will. And the small fact that I dragged Michael away-"

"I assume he doesn't mind- this is what he's always wanted." Liz smiled.

Kyle nodded, "but it comes with a burden that he did not expect."

"What do you mean?" She asked, intrigued.

"Michael's the king, he now carries the seal." Kyle explained as Liz's eyes widened in shock. "And will do so until Max comes to Antar."

"Is that what Enai wants?" Liz mused. "I thought we had a month to prepare them to take the throne."

"So, did I." Kyle sighed. "Ares is missing, there is no one to rule-"

"And thus Enai panicked and overshot his message a tad." Liz snorted, shaking her head.

"You could say that," Kyle nodded in agreement.

"What do you want me to tell them?" Liz asked after a short pause.

Kyle frowned. "You are going to have to prepare them- they need to return. The war has just escalated."

"Understood," Liz exhaled. "The sooner the better."

Kyle nodded, turning to leave when he glanced back at Liz. "Take care of my girl," Kyle whispered. "Tess will take the news hard- and her whole support system has just disappeared. I wish-"

Liz closed her eyes briefly and stated Tess' name as she held out her hand to her right.

"Liz?" Kyle questioned, slightly confused when Tess appeared on the landscape. She blinked and then smiled at him. "Oh, Tess."

"Kyle!" Tess gasped as he immediately wrapped his arms around her and held her close. "I was so worried."

"I'm here," he whispered, kissing her softly. "Thank you Liz." He gushed as he nodded toward her and she nodded in return, turning her gaze away from them as they kissed.

Tess noticed the sadness in his eyes and paused. "What's wrong?" She whispered as she continued to study him. "Something's happened."

Kyle sighed, kissing her as he ran his fingers through her hair. "Ares is missing," he stated as she stiffened in his arms, staring at him in horror.

"No." She gasped. "He was- we just-"

"I know," he whispered. "We'll find him- all is not lost." He added as he kissed her once more, suddenly feeling drained. "Our time is up," he stated sadly as he ran his fingers down the side of her face. "I love you." He added as he disappeared.

"No!" Tess cried out as she felt Liz's arms around her. "You can't just tell me something like that and leave!" She protested weakly as she turned to Liz, tears shinning in her eyes.

"We must go back," Liz whispered and suddenly they were back in Michael's apartment.

tbc

[Icalynn]

THank you, killjoy, Flamehair, Rowedog, and cassie for the feedback!

Sorry for the delay- Enjoy!

~53~

Tess and Liz shared a brief glance before they turned their gazes to the four waiting for answers. Only a moment before, they had gathered in Michael's apartment for an impromptu meeting, which was pushed aside when Liz felt the familiar calling of the Granolith.

"Well?" Maria questioned as Tess blinked at her, feeling slightly disoriented. "What just happened? It was like you guys were staring off into space or something"

"We were speaking to Kyle with the aid of the Granolith." Liz offered as she glanced over at Max and Isabel. "Michael and Kyle are on Antar. They are safe, Enai the guardian of the granolith miscalculated."

"Miscalculated?" Alex gasped. "How can you screw up something like this? Kyle and Michael are on another planet."

"Enai panicked, he only did what he thought was best." Liz reassured them as Max's eyes narrowed on her.

"Liz?" Max questioned, his voice concerned as he reached out to her. "What is it?"

"Ares is missing," Tess groaned as she wiped angrily at her tears. "That's why Enai panicked-"

"Oh, Tess," Maria exhaled as she quickly wrapped her arms around Tess, offering her the support she needed.

"With Ares missing-" Liz began as Max nodded, standing up and starting to pace.

"There is no one to rule," Max supplied, shaking his head. "It was meant to be a message for us, the Royal Four."

"Yes," Liz nodded.

"They want us to return," Isabel whispered, her face paling as she grabbed for Alex's hand. "They want the Royal Four."

"Yes," Liz sighed. "And I am to help you remember."

"Is it the only way?" Isabel questioned, her voice filled with apprehension and Liz nodded.

"It's only then that you will gain your full powers and reach your full potential." Liz explained softly. "Ares had given Kyle a month to finish the task- but we no longer have that time."

"What about us?" Maria questioned as she glanced at Alex. "Are we to just wait and watch?"

"I'm sorry," Liz whispered. "There's not much else you can do, your support means everything."

Max glanced wearily at the clock. "We should go home and rest, in the morning Liz will begin to unlock our past."

"You want us to go home and rest?" Tess repeated slowly. "My fiancé and brother are stranded on another fucking planet and my Ares is assumed missing and possibly dead." She fumed, standing up. "You may be the king-"

"Actually," Liz interrupted a small smile forming on her lips. "Michael's the king."

"What?!" Tess and Max gasped, turning to Liz with matching shocked expressions.

"Did you just say that Michael is the king?" Maria asked, her voice rising ever so slightly. "Spaceboy?"

"Yes," Liz nodded, unable to hide her amused smile. "Apparently the granolith gave him the seal- you are no longer the king."

"Is it permanent?" Max questioned softly, not sure if he wanted it back or not.

"No," Liz smiled. "You are the true king and it will be transferred back to you once you return to Antar." Liz paused. "Michael is the only one of royal blood and thus the only one that can take the throne in Ares absence."

"But, he doesn't know the first thing about running a planet-" Maria stammered, shaking her head.

"He soon will with Kyle's help." Liz stated. "As I will help the three of you prepare."

~

Michael itched at his kingly robes. "Haven't they ever heard of cotton?" He grumbled as Kyle laughed.

"Wrong planet," he snorted, shaking his head. "Do you want to start?"

"Yes," Michael nodded as he stopped fidgeting and turned his full attention to Kyle. "What do you want me to do?"

Kyle stood up from his seat and sat down in the center of the room in the Lotus position. He closed his eyes briefly and reopened them, revealing his blue Antarian eyes. "Sit," he instructed his voice slightly deeper.

Michael nodded and sat down in front of him. "Now what?" He questioned as Kyle reached out his hands to him.

"Take my hands," he stated and Michael complied. "Now, clear your thoughts." He continued as a connection flared between them.

Michael closed his eyes, letting himself relax as Kyle entered his mind. He was about to repeat his question when he suddenly felt like he was being slammed against the wall, every muscle in his body ached. He groaned as the feeling faded into nothing and he suddenly felt like he was flying.

'Rath,' Kyle whispered into his mind and he felt a myriad of emotions wash over him.

"No, stop," Michael gasped, immediately pulling away from Kyle as the visions of his past flashed before him.

'Rath,' Kyle urged as he continued to unlock his past, not needing the physical connection to continue.

"Stop," Michael growled as he sent a blast toward Kyle, dissolving the bond that connected them.

Kyle jerked back, absorbing the blast and blinked over at him. "Michael?" he questioned, concern washing over him as he watched Michael collapse to the ground. He was instantly at his side, "Michael?" He questioned once more, sighing with relief as he blinked his eyes up at him. "Hey, how do you feel?"

"It is not of your concern," he replied dryly as he pushed him away and stood up, brushing himself off as he glanced around the room. "Where is Zan?"

Kyle frowned. "Zan is not here."

"Who are you?" he questioned sharply, sweeping his gaze over him.

"Kyle," he sighed, shaking his head. "You broke off too soon-"

"Kyle?" He repeated his voice softening as his eyes narrowed. "I know you."

"Yes, Rath." Kyle nodded. "I've known you all your life."

"That is impossible-" he began his voice trailing off as Kyle reached out and touched his hand.

"Michael," he whispered, instantly reforming the connection, finishing the processes he started moments ago.

"Fuck," he groaned as Kyle pulled away, closing off the connection.

"Michael?" Kyle began, studying him closely.

"Yeah?" He grumbled as he shook his head. "That was psychedelic."

Kyle laughed. "And you feel okay?"

"Yeah," Michael shrugged. "It's weird, my memories are all jumbled, but it's becoming clearer-"

"Good," he sighed. "For a second I was worried- Rath resurfaced and you seemed oblivious to who I was."

"Huh," Michael grunted, frowning. "I don't remember that."

"What is the last thing you remember as Rath?" Kyle prompted, needing for him to tell him what he knew.

"Ava dying," he whispered, closing his eyes briefly. "Oh, god." He groaned. "I remember- she died in my arms. I promised her I'd watch over her-" his voice trailed off as his eyes widened. "The heir- they had a baby?"

"What did you promise?" Kyle urged. "Michael, please, what did Ava tell you to do?"

Michael frowned. "You knew. How long did you-"

"Michael," he warned. "What do you remember? We need to know. The whereabouts of the heir are unknown to us. It's the one thing that Khivar holds over us, it's why Ares has conceded many time to his rule."

"I don't understand." He grumbled, scratching his eyebrow.

"Khivar claims to have the heir," Kyle began. "But, we know he doesn't. That is why Nasedo was so adamant about Tess and Max hooking up. He needed the heir he claims to have."

"Then where is the heir?" Michael questioned.

"Good question," he sighed. "According to the known history, Ava was heavy with child when she left the palace under heavy guard and she returned to the castle without the heir. It's been told that she placed the heir in a pod similar to the ones you were born in, to open with the touch of a blood relative-"

"To protect the heir," he exhaled, his eyes fluttering close. "She said to watch over her," he smiled as he opened his eyes. "It was a girl. Serena, I believe Ava called her."

Kyle forced a smile to his face, the thought of Tess and Max having a child still unsettled him. He couldn't help but worry if they would follow destiny and she'd leave him. "Do you remember where?"

"Yes," he whispered. "It was a place special only to Ava and I."

"Where?" Kyle questioned as a servant ran into the room interrupting them.

"What do you want?" Michael demanded, his tone brutal, reminding Kyle of Rath. "You have no right to interrupt us."

The servant knelt before them, lowering his gaze to the ground. "I am sorry my king," he apologized quickly, taking in a quick breath. "We have word, Ares is alive."

Michael shared a glance with Kyle, sighing with relief. "Where is he?"

"In the holding cells at Khivar's palace," the servant boy replied quickly standing up. "The general would like to speak to you, to make a plan of action. He sent me here."

Michael nodded, pausing as strategic plans of the past flashed before his eyes. "Can you teleport in and get him?" Michael questioned as he studied Kyle.

"No," Kyle replied shaking his head. "I can't teleport to someplace I've never been- maybe if I knew the layout."

Michael clenched his jaw, "I know."

"How would you-" Kyle began, his voice trailing off as he suddenly understood his underlining meaning. "Do you think you can show me?"

"Yes," he nodded as he reached out and touched Kyle's shoulder, forming a connection.

Kyle was overwhelmed of images of General Rath's captivity years ago. He tired to focus on the layout of the holding cells and not the silent tears of the strong warrior. The connection faded away and he gazed at Michael standing in front of him.

"Can you do it?" Michael questioned.

Kyle swallowed, glancing out to the setting sun. "Yes." He replied. "I will go after dark."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thank you, Rowedog, Fehrbaby, and Flamehair for the feedback, it so makes my day.

This part is a tad on the short side, but I'm setting up the next part a bit. And thank you so much to Fehrbaby for getting me over my writer's block. *hugs*

Enjoy!

~54~

The sun was heavy in the sky, the brilliant blue hues so unlike Earth's. In would be dark soon and Kyle would play his role in the plan and teleport into enemy territory. He wasn't confident it would work, but Michael was convinced that it would. He was quickly adapting to his new role as the king.

Kyle couldn't help but notice the changes in him. It had only been an hour since he awakened Michael's memories and yet he was already the soldier he once was. He was confident in the mission and his role in it, which left Kyle wondering about his own role.

"It'll work." Michael stated, not even glancing up from the plans in front of him.

"I-" Kyle gasped, shaking his head. "I don't-"

"You're projecting your thoughts," he commented and Kyle's mouth dropped open. "Yeah. You aren't the only one."

Kyle laughed, shaking his head. "I'll keep that in mind," he smiled. "I've not had to worry about that before."

Michael just smirked, "so no dirty thoughts about Tess."

Kyle flushed, his mind instantly recalling the last time they were together- it felt like a lifetime ago, but it had only been a few hours at most. His eyes drifted close as he recalled Tess in her silky lingerie.

"Kyle!" Michael growled and Kyle chuckled.

"Now, you'll know to tone it down about Maria." Kyle remarked, instantly sealing his thoughts away from him.

Michael frowned at the comment. "I screwed up, didn't I?"

"To say the least," He sighed, studying him. "You'll have to make it up to her."

He nodded in silence. "I miss her."

"Then tell her that," Kyle stated. "She just wants to know that you love her as much as she loves you."

Michael nodded once more, turning his gaze back to the plans in front of him. Kyle crossed over to him, looking over the detailed plan. "Soon." He whispered as he tapped his fingers against the worn parchment and Kyle smiled, realizing he was referring to Maria and not the plan at hand.

The door swung open, bagging against the wall, tearing them from their thoughts. Kyle glanced up as a servant girl entered the room.

He paused, stiffening at her questioning gaze. She openly stared at him, unlike all the other servants he had met before. He found himself staring back at her, her hazel catlike eyes boring into him as if he was nothing but a figment of her imagination.

"You did not have permission to enter," Michael's voice boomed from behind him and Kyle glanced away from her and focused his attention to him.

"Do I need permission to bring you your meal?" She questioned as she raised the tray in her hands. "Did you not request dinner to be brought to you?"

Kyle shook his head, not even realizing that she had a tray in her hand. "Yes, thank you."

"Who are you?" Michael demanded and she stiffened in response, raising her chin.

"Leja," she stated as she placed the tray down on the table before them. "It would be wise, not to scare off every servant in the palace."

Michael gasped at her stern tone of voice and glared at her. "Leja," he drawled. "It may be wise for you to know your place."

"Thank you, Leja," Kyle quickly interceded, stepping between them, not wanting to see Michael's temper escalate. "We'll call you if we need anything."

She paused, bowing slightly to Kyle. "Naturally, my lord," she stated, turning quickly on her heal and closing the door behind her.

"Naturally, my lord," Michael mimicked as she left the room. "She has some nerve."

"Did she feel a little off to you?" Kyle questioned as he rubbed at the back of his neck.

Michael shrugged, glancing back down at the plans. "Maybe she had a crush on that servant boy I apparently scared off-"

"Meegan," Kyle prompted and Michael stared at him.

"Yeah, whatever," he groaned, scratching at his brow. "Can we focus back on the mission?"

"Didn't you just tell me that it will work?" Kyle questioned and Michael sighed.

"Yes," he stated looking up at him. "Kyle, please be safe." He exhaled. "Tess will kill me if I let anything happen to you-"

Kyle swallowed hard, not letting himself even to think of that outcome. "You won't need to send a rescue team after me." Kyle vowed, hoping his words won't come back to haunt him.

~

Tess sat in the middle of Michael's apartment, forcing back the tears that threatened to fall. She told everyone she was fine, she told them to go home, and now she regretted it.

Maria lingered longer than the rest and only left after a frantic call from Jim. Amy was going into labor, her baby brother was to be born.

"You sure you'll be okay?" Maria questioned as she glanced at the door and back at her.

"Yeah," Tess nodded, forcing a smile to my face. "I just want to stay here for a bit."

Maria smiled weakly. "I'll call you. They'll be okay-"

"Yeah," Tess agreed quickly. "I mean, it's Kyle and Michael."

"Yeah," Maria sighed. "They'll be okay. They just have to be-" Maria snorted. "He's the king!"

Tess smiled at that and she wrapped her arms around her, hugging her close. "Give Amy and Jim my love- and call me when he's born."

"Oh, I will." Maria smiled as she held her tight and then let go. "I'm sure baby Valenti will be kicking and screaming into the world. He's been kicking up a storm for the last week."

Tess laughed, flashing a true smile for the first time since everything had seemingly crumbled around her. "I'm sure."

Maria grinned as she waved her hand and ran out the door. Tess stiffened slightly as the door closed shut and she was truly alone. She closed her eyes, forcing herself not to think about Kyle, Michael, Ares, and the state of Antar. But, she failed miserably.

Her eyes snapped open and she ran her finger over her engagement ring. "Be safe, my love."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thank you all for the feedback! It really keeps my muse going!

killjoy - Thanks! Lol, and I'd have to agree, I don't think they'll ever talk about their sex lives!
Rowedog- Yep! And you'll find more about Leja soon.
Fehrbaby- Hee. Thanks! I was hoping it would work out as well.
Flamehair- More about Leja soon, in fact a little more in this part!
cassie- I'm glad everyone is interested in Leja, more to be revealed soon.

Enjoy!

~55~

Kyle glanced once more over the dark horizon. "It's time," he whispered more to himself as he glanced back at Michael who was watching him from across the room.

"You know the plan," Michael stated as he crossed over to him and Kyle simply nodded in reply.

"Yes," he sighed, shaking his head. "I've only heard it about a hundred times in the last hour."

Michael flashed him a rare grin and sighed. "Be safe," he added, reaching over and touching Kyle's shoulder. "We have the advantage- they don't know about your powers."

"I hope that it's enough," Kyle whispered as he leaned into Michael's touch. A moment passed before he turned and hugged him, unable to stop himself.

Michael returned the brotherly hug, hoping it wouldn't the last. "Be safe," Michael repeated as he stepped away and Kyle teleported away.

Kyle sucked in a quick breath as he took in his surroundings, immediately pushing himself against the wall to help conceal himself as he tried to regain his balance. He recoiled as the dark musty scent and stale air encompassed him, it vaguely reminded him of his grandfather's attic in the dead of summer.

'Ares,' he sent out with his mind and frowned when he didn't reply. He crunched down and made his way down the long hallway, barely keeping his balance on the slick floors. He shuddered as he felt what he assumed was water drip down on him. 'Ares,' he called out once more with his mind.

"Check the perimeter," a muffled voice replied instead and Kyle stiffened, his heart racing in anticipation as footsteps neared.

"Oh, Buddha," he exhaled as he glanced around, finding nowhere to hide in the narrow hallway. He panicked, teleporting but forcing himself to stay in the general area.

He opened his eyes to see the guard walking toward him, he froze not knowing what to do. He blinked in shock as the guard passed right through him as if he wasn't even standing in his way.

Kyle exhaled slowly, not fully understanding what had happened. He glanced down at his hands and he realized he couldn't see them. He was invisible as if he was a ghost of some sort, haunting the halls of a condemned house. Had he shifted out of phase? Did he have another power that he had not fully realized?

His mind suddenly raced with questioned that he did not have the answers for, pulling him away from the mission at hand. He took a deep breath and concentrated his thoughts on Ares.

'Ares,' he called out with his mind as he raced down another hallway and turned the corner. 'Ares!'

He skidded to a stop as he found a guard standing in front of one of the cells and he suddenly knew that Ares was in there. Kyle crept up toward the guard, waiting for the gruff man to turn away before he slipped by him and walked through the door with ease.

Kyle gasped as he spied Ares sprawled out on the cobblestone floor. His robes were tattered and torn, revealing the bruises and laceration that marred his skin. "Ares," he hissed as he dropped to his knees, fully appearing as he reached out to him.

"No," Ares whimpered as Kyle placed his hand on him, withdrawing from Kyle's touch.

"Ares," he gasped, biting back a sob that threatened to escape.

Ares eyes fluttered open and their gazes locked. "My king," he whispered, a smile curving at his lips. 'A trap,' he added telepathically and Kyle stiffened, quickly looking around the dark cell.

"I got you," Kyle stated as he wrapped his arms around Ares and helped him up, footsteps closely approaching.

"Hurry," Ares gasped as he clutched at Kyle's robe.

Kyle nodded, preparing to teleport when a fireball lit up the dark cell. His lips thinned as his gaze locked with a man he recognized as Khivar, their enemy. Kyle didn't wait for introductions or a chance for Khivar to fully attack and teleported away.

~

Michael paced the length of his chamber, waiting impatiently for Kyle to return with Ares. He groaned in frustration, he should have been back by now. He should have confirmation that Kyle and Ares were safe in the healing chambers-

There was a knock at the door and he tensed, turning to see Leja enter. "You," he groaned, his gaze locking with hers. "What is it this time?"

She bristled, staring at him for a moment. "To give you news," she stated. "But, I do not know if you deserve it."

"I am the acting king," Michael protested, crossing his arms over his chest. "And you should treat me as thus."

"Why?" Leja questioned. "You are only here by default, we all know. You did not want to come. The Royal Four failed their people, they did not return as foretold. They let countless people die."

"You have no idea what you are talking about," he hissed. "We didn't know."

"Would it have made a difference?" She gasped, tears burning her eyes. "Because of you, I watched my parents die-"

"How am I to blame for your parents death?" Michael groaned, shaking his head.

"You were to return, you were to rescue us," Leja began softly. "The Royal Four was our only hope and they did not return- they left us to die. Ares was too young to take the throne and by the time he could, so much had happened. He's brought hope once more to his people."

"Ares?" He repeated, his eyes widening at the apparent love in her voice. "You're in love with him."

Leja glared at him, her face flushing. "It is no concern of yours." She stammered, before regaining control over her emotions. "Lord Kyle has sent word. They are at the healing chambers."

Michael stared at her briefly, wanting to question her further, but he couldn't deny the need to see Kyle and his brother. "This isn't over." He stated sharply.

"I beg to differ," she snapped back, turning on her heels and leaving him to his thoughts.

He stared blankly after her for a moment, trying to wrap his mind around the few small details she supplied. Could Ares be in a relationship with the servant girl?

Before Michael could follow after her, Kyle appeared at his side. "Kyle! You're okay, aren't you? What about Ares?"

Kyle paused, closing his eyes briefly. "He's injured pretty badly," he whispered. "I don't know the extent of his injuries, but it looked bad. The healers are attending to him."

"Then he should be fine," Michael stated, not willing to think of any other outcome.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," Kyle sighed. "We should give the healers some time-"

"I need to see him," Michael interrupted, shaking his head. "Kyle."

Kyle nodded, reaching out and taking his hand, teleporting them instantly to the healing chambers where they were met by Trie. "How is he?" Kyle questioned.

"He is well, he will be sore for a few days, but we feel he will make a full recovery." Trie smiled as he bowed to Michael. "My king."

Michael nodded, "may I see him?"

"Momentarily, my king." Trie replied softly. "If you will excuse me, I shall be back to bring you to him."

"Thank you, Trie." Kyle smiled and Trie nodded, turning to leave as Kyle glanced over at Michael, noting his worried expression. He closed his eyes at the intensity of Michael's emotions, ranging from fear of the unknown, to guilt of letting his people down, to happiness that his brother was well, to sadness of everyone involved-

"Don't." Michael began, before Kyle could even ask. "I just need a moment."

Kyle nodded, unable to understand what he was going through. "Take all the time you need."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thank you, Fehrbaby, Rowedog, Flamehair, and cassie for the feedback, it really keeps me going! *hugs*

I'm sorry for the delay, I had planned to post earlier, but work and other unforseen circumstances reared their ugly head. It's been a shitty 24 hours to say the least.

Lol, and enough about me, here's the next part. Enjoy!


~56~

A few minutes later Trie returned and waved them back to see Ares. "He is responding well," he informed them. "His prognosis is good since we were able to attend to him so quickly."

Michael smiled at Kyle in thanks, both knowing it could have been worse. "That's good to hear."

Trie opened the door for them and they filed into a smaller room. Kyle bumped into Michael as he suddenly stopped in front of him. "Michael?" He began as he stepped to the side, seeing what caused Michael to freeze in his spot. "Ares," he smiled.

Ares glanced over as he heard Kyle say his name and his eye widened as he recognized his brother standing in apparent awe. "Rath," he grinned as he attempted to sit up.

"Ares," Michael gasped, finally finding his voice and rushing to Ares' bedside. He hesitantly reached out to him and then they embraced in a brotherly hug.

"How I have longed to see you, brother." Ares whispered as they parted.

"I am here," Michael whispered in reply. "If I had known- I've craved to return for so long."

Ares nodded, glancing over at him, acknowledging his presence for the first time since they entered the room. "Kyle explained," Ares began, wincing in pain as he shifted his weight. "When he last visited- the shapeshifter deceived you and in doing so, condemned us."

Kyle was about to reply when he felt the familiar pull of the granolith. Liz. "Excuse me," he stated. "I'll let you continue on with your reunion, I'm needed somewhere else."

"What is it?" Michael asked, suddenly alarmed.

"The granolith is calling, I believe Liz wants to speak to me," Kyle explained and Michael nodded with understanding.

"Would you have Liz tell Maria that I-" He paused, opening and closing his mouth, unable to voice his feelings, but Kyle understood what he implied.

"Yes," Kyle smiled as he turned his gaze to Ares. "I'm glad you're looking better."

"Thank you," Ares nodded. "And please send word to our sister, she must be worried."

"That she is," Kyle sighed, his heart aching at the thought of Tess worrying over them. "I'll be back soon." He added as he teleported to the granolith.

He reached out and touched the granolith, immediately opening the connection with Liz. He stepped out onto the familiar landscape and smiled at Liz. "Hey."

"Hey," she smiled as she crossed over to him. "I have news."

Kyle chuckled. "I assumed as much."

"You have a brother," she grinned and Kyle gasped in surprise.

"Is he okay?" Kyle questioned. "Isn't he a little early?"

"Yeah, he needed a little oxygen at first, but he's strong," Liz smiled. "They named him James Maxwell Valenti."

"James Maxwell?" Kyle repeated, his eyes widening in shock.

"Yeah," Liz snorted. "Apparently your dad wanted to thank Max for saving his son and Amy agreed."

"Guess, that means I won't have to name my son after him," Kyle chuckled. "A brother," he smiled. "And Amy?"

"She is doing well," Liz supplied. "And Maria is taking on the role as big sister-"

"I'm sorry I missed it," Kyle sighed, shaking his head. "Wow, I can't believe it."

"It's been a very needed distraction," Liz added softly. "Tess isn't holding up very well."

Kyle exhaled sharply, nodding his head. "Tell her that I love her and that Ares is safe. He's in the healing chamber as we speak."

"Oh, Kyle, that's great!" Liz smiled. "I'll let Tess know-" her voice trailed off as she glanced down. "Do you want me to tell her that you won't be returning any time soon?"

Kyle paused. "I don't think she's ready to hear that- she'll see me soon, when she returns to Antar."

Liz nodded, glancing back up. "Does Michael realize yet?" She questioned softly.

"No," Kyle replied. "But, I don't think he's ready to leave- we have so much yet to do. Rath has been fully integrated."

"Oh," She gasped. "Did he know about the heir?"

"He remembered. Apparently Ava told him to watch over her- he knows where she hid the pod we've been looking for." Kyle explained as a smile crossed over her face.

"Her?" She repeated. "A girl? I just automatically assumed it was a boy."

Kyle nodded. "So did I."

"Have you found her?" She inquired as he shook his head no. "Oh, of course not- Ares would have been first priority."

"Yes," He smiled. "With Ares' help, I believe we'll find her soon."

"Good."

"And what of the other three?" Kyle questioned. "Have you started?"

Liz paused, closing her eyes as she recalled the session with Max. "Zan is fully integrated." She whispered. "He did not know the whereabouts of the heir, he had assumed both Ava and the baby were killed- apparently Zan was at the front line when she was killed."

"Ava died in Rath's arms," he sighed. "Or rather that's what he remembers, he promised to protect the heir, Serena."

"Serena," Liz repeated, smiling.

"Is it what we feared?" Kyle asked after a short pause. "What are his feelings toward Ava? To Tess?"

Liz worried her lip, glancing away from him. "He loves her," she sighed. "I don't know yet if it's stronger then the love he has for me-"

"Liz-" Kyle sighed as he reached out to her.

"No," Liz protested, shrugging away. "We knew the risks- it'll take some time, the feelings are so new to him."

"We'll see once you integrate Ava," Kyle sighed. "Then we'll know if their feelings are true or not."

"He wants to integrate Ava," Liz whispered. "I couldn't refuse him-"

Kyle tensed. "Do you think that's wise?"

"He feels the shock of losing their child may be too much," she sighed. "If you were here it would be different."

"But, I can't be." Kyle groaned. "The mission is in full swing and when the granolith is fully charged, they are to return to Antar."

"I know." Liz snapped, shaking her head. "Max will integrate Ava tonight and I hope to integrate Vilondra." She sighed. "Isabel is still fighting this, she fears being integrated-"

"I thought with Alex at her side she'd be able to deal with this," he whispered.

"Alex hasn't left her side." Liz added. "I think if she knew he could come, she'd be better."

"But, that's not possible," Kyle sighed. "Unless he wants to die and let Max heal him-"

"I know," Liz whispered, unable to stop the snort of laughter at the thought. "I wouldn't recommend it."

"Me neither," Kyle smiled as he suddenly felt drained and he knew their time was up. "It's time."

Liz nodded, feeling the same drain in her powers. "Be safe."

"Michael sends word to Maria," he added quickly, before their time was fully up. "Tell her that he loves her, that he misses her, and he was an idiot to break up with her."

Liz gasped, her eyes widening. "He said that?"

"Not in so many words," Kyle smiled. "But, you know Michael."

"Yeah," Liz nodded. "I'll let her know."

"And tell-" Kyle began as he was suddenly disconnected and he found himself in the granolith chamber. "Damn."

"Damn?" he heard someone repeat and he turned to see Leja standing there. "I do not understand."

"It's an Earth saying," he stated, slightly confused to see her there.

"I see," she smiled. "I am sorry, I did not mean to interrupt."

"What are you doing here?" He found himself questioning and she glanced away.

"Please do not say anything," she began softly. "I am not supposed to be here- but, it brings me peace."

Kyle nodded, glancing at the granolith. "It's a religious icon to most."

"Yes," she smiled. "And I felt the need to come, with Ares-"

"Ares," Kyle repeated, noticing the lack of a formal title and loving tone. "What is Ares to you?"

Leja stiffened slightly at the question. "I should not have said anything-"

"It's obvious that you care for him," he added quickly as she flushed in response.

"That I do," she admitted as Enai walked in, startled to find them both there.

"Leja," he began, shifting his gaze to her. "How many times have I told you-"

"Master Enai," Leja gasped, shaking her head. "I-"

"She is with me, Enai." Kyle stated and Enai turned to him slightly surprised. "I asked her to join me. Is that a problem?"

"No. My king- Kyle." Enai replied, stumbling over his words.

Kyle tried to suppress his amusement as he offered his arm to Leja. "We were just going," he stated as Leja took his arm with a grateful smile.

"If you should need anything else," Enai added quickly. "Please, do not hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Enai," Kyle smiled as he escorted Leja out of the chamber and they started walking back to the palace.

"I can not thank you enough," Leja whispered, "You are very kind- you did not have to be, especially after the way I have behaved."

Kyle shrugged, still wondering why she was so hostile toward Michael earlier, there had to be something more. "Why do you dislike Rath?" He questioned after a short pause.

Leja groaned, pulling away from him and gazing over at the palace. "Ares tried to tell me it was not his fault. But, it is hard not to think otherwise. We had given up our hope- the people of Antar are despairing."

"Rath is only the first to return," Kyle began softly. "Soon the Royal Four will be here to renew the hope of the people and end this war."

"It is hard to believe," she sighed, shaking her head. "I watched my parents and countless others die in this seemingly endless war. All we've wanted since I can remember is for the Royal Four to return and defeat Khivar."

Kyle nodded. "I can't say that I know what you've lived- but, you must understand that they have been under the enemies watch. They have been purposefully misled- they did not know the truth until recently. And once they did, they have given up everything to come here to fulfill the promise they didn't even make."

"Oh," Leja whispered. "I am sorry-"

"I'm not the one you should apologize to," he stated and Leja nodded. "Think about it," he added as he took a step away from her and teleported back to the healing chambers, leaving her to reflect on his words.

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thanks, Rowedog, killjoy, tequathisy, and Fehrbaby for the feedback, it really means a lot to me!

I had plans to post sooner, but my computer has been attacked by a nasty trojan... and I'm still trying to nip it in the butt, so to speak. This week so hasn't been my week!! Hopefully next week will be better.

Enjoy!

~57~

"Max," Tess gasped as she opened the door, not expecting to see him. "If you're here to see baby Valenti," she began with a smile. "They're still at-"

"No, I'm here to see you," he stated as he continued to stare at her, his eyes flickering to the emerald Antarian eyes she vaguely remembered. "Ava."

"Zan," she exhaled as she stiffened ever so slightly. "Um, come in." She added quickly as she opened the door wider for him.

"Thank you," he smiled as he entered and she closed the door behind them. "Can we speak?"

"Yeah," Tess nodded as they walked into the living room. "The Valenti's won't be back for awhile, we could stay here or we could-"

"This is fine," he whispered as their gazes locked, sending a shiver down her spine.

"What do you want?" She questioned sharply, suddenly feeling a little uneasy. "Where's Liz?"

"Liz is serving the granolith and integrating Vilondra as we speak." Max explained. "And I've come to integrate you."

"No." Tess refused, shaking her head. "If anyone is going to go into my mind, it'll be Kyle."

"Tess," he whispered. "We don't have the time to wait much longer."

"Then why you?" She questioned, staring at him wearily.

"Do you fear me?" He asked as he reached out and ran his thumb over her cheek and she tensed, her mind flashing to a memory she had long forgotten.

It was the only public display of affection that Zan would allow for them- it was a promise for more. She trembled, old feelings resurfacing for a moment before she pushed them aside.

"No," she managed to whisper, shaking her head as she pulled away, feeling more confused the longer he stared at her.

"Let me do this for you," he smiled as he trailed his fingers down her arm and clasped her hand, squeezing it.

"Who are you?" She found herself asking as she pulled her hand away. "Max or Zan?"

"There is no separation from the two," Max replied. "Here on Earth I am Max, on Antar I am Zan. I am one in the same-"

Tess shook her head, frowning at him. "What do you expect from me?"

"To remember," he smiled. "Tess it's time."

Tess exhaled slowly, "I'm scared."

"There's nothing to be scared of," he assured her. "You'll have a rush of memories, but I think you remember more then the rest of us. It'll be easier for you to integrate Ava's memories."

"Okay," she sighed. "What do you need for me to do?"

"Sit down and try to relax," He smiled as they both sat down on the couch. He turned toward her and she followed his lead. "Take my hands."

She nodded, tentatively reaching out to him and placing her smaller hands into his. "Now what?"

"Close your eyes and clear your mind," He instructed as their connection flared to life.

He was shocked to feel the intense emotion she felt for Kyle, her love for Zan paled in comparison. It was a punch to the gut, a rejection he had not expected. He sucked in a quick breath as he let go of his feelings of the past and finally put his true emotions into perspective. His love for Liz far bypassed those he ever held for Ava.

Ava and Zan did love each other- but, their love was nothing compared to the love that they had both experienced in their new lives as Max and Tess. He realized that they had settled for their people- and he suddenly wondered if their marriage would have lasted if the war had not forced them onto their current paths.

Tess smiled, squeezing his hands, feeling his confusion and realization. "I do love you," she whispered as she opened her eyes and gazed into his. "A part of me always will- but, Kyle is my true love, my soul mate as Liz is for you."

"We were young and naïve, we didn't know what true love was at the time," Max agreed, squeezing her hands in return.

"Must be why we were so drawn to them," she giggled, flashing him a brilliant smile. "Why we fell so fast- we already knew. And we were willing to give up everything for just a taste of it."

"I couldn't agree more," Max smiled, leaning in and placing a small kiss to her brow, "we were lucky to live again, to find love once more."

"Yes," she nodded as she closed her eyes and she relaxed further, letting him in further, the connection growing stronger. He gently prodded, unlocking Ava's memories with a simple thought.

Tess gasped, crying out as the memories of the past flashed before her. She pulled away as the memory of her daughter flickered before her eyes, the love she felt as she tucked her away and sealed her into the pod. "Serena," She gasped as she opened her eyes to see Max staring at her in shock.

"I thought-" he began, closing his eyes briefly. "I had no memory of what had happened, I only knew of your death and I had assumed that our child had perished as well."

"No," She groaned, shaking her head. "I sealed her away in a pod similar to ours only moments after the delivery. She was so tiny, and I just wanted her to live when we returned, to be safe-" she explained, tears pooling in her eyes. "Oh, Max. We have a daughter."

~

"There you are," Ares smiled as Kyle reappeared beside them. "Your abilities still amaze me. Is that how you found me?"

Kyle smiled. "Not exactly, I teleported in and, well, I think I have a new power."

"A new power?" Michael repeated. "What is it?"

Kyle shrugged. "Not sure, I didn't take the time to figure it out- the enemy was near."

"The enemy is not here now," Ares pointed out with a small grin. "Have you tried it again?"

Kyle shook his head, closing his eyes as he prepared to teleport, only forcing himself to stay in the room as he did earlier. He opened his eyes to see them still before him, but he wasn't physically present.

"Did he teleport again?" Ares questioned and Kyle couldn't help but chuckle, causing them both to freeze in their spots as they heard him.

"Kyle?" Michael called out, looking around the room.

"Yes," Kyle answered and Michael's eyes widened.

"Where are you?" He demanded and Kyle laughed once more.

"I'm in front of you," he chuckled as he concentrated and materialized out of thin air.

"How?" Ares gasped as they both stared at him.

"No idea," Kyle shrugged once more. "It's kinda like an extension of my power- I just don't teleport away, it's like I'm in limbo or something. I never tried to stay once I began to teleport, I didn't think it was possible."

"And this time you did." Michael mused as he scratched at his brow. "Why?"

"I was making my way down the narrow hallway," Kyle began, his body trembling slightly as he recalled the events as it happened. "When I heard voices and footsteps approaching, I panicked. There was nowhere to hide and I didn't know where to teleport to, so I found myself invisible to the guard- he walked right through me."

"Amazing," Ares gasped, smiling as he glanced at his brother. "Are your powers the same as before?"

Michael paused, suddenly reflecting on his own powers. "I've developed telekinesis. Otherwise, my powers are similar to the ones I had before."

"And soon you'll have the power of the Royal Four," Ares smiled. "And you'll defeat Khivar once and for all."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thank you Rowedog, Fehrbaby, and Flamehair for the feedback, it means a lot to me!!

My muse has been talking up a storm! Hopefully, she'll keep on talking!! And many thanks to Fehrbaby for helping me smooth out some of the kinks! *hugs*

Enjoy!

~58~

"Liz," Tess exhaled as she clutched the phone tightly in her hand. "I need to speak with you- I remember everything." She stammered as she glanced over at Max. "Serena."

"Where are you?" Liz questioned in response as Tess sighed with relief.

"At the Valenti's," she replied quickly. "Liz, is she okay? Please tell me her pod's still safe." There was a short pause, but it was the only confirmation she needed. "Oh, god."

"I'll explain everything when I get there," Liz stated as she hung up the phone.

Tess rapidly blinked back her tears, turning her gaze to Max. "Something's wrong," she whispered as he pulled her into his arms, trying to comfort her.

"We shouldn't jump to-" Max began as Tess pulled away from Max and started pacing the small length of the room.

"No, they know something," she groaned, wringing her hands together. "They were being so cryptic-" Tess skidded to a halt as she suddenly realized why Nasedo needed her in his plan. "The heir," she gasped. "They don't know where she is- that's why he wanted the heir so damn much."

"Tess?" Max began, slightly confused.

"Nasedo wanted me to have the heir- that was his deal with Khivar," Tess gasped. "They must not have found her- our baby girl! We have to go save her-"

"Tess," Max repeated, reaching out to her. "I'm sure Kyle and Michael are-"

"No," Tess protested as she turned to him, her eyes flashing to her blue Antarian eyes. "We need to go to Antar, she needs us."

"We should wait for Liz," he offered and she shook her head no in reply as she spun on her heels and headed for the door. "Tess!"

"No," she groaned. "I'm going."

"Going where?" Max questioned as he grabbed her wrist. She flinched, glaring at him and then at his hand on her.

"Don't touch me," Tess grated her eyes flickering to her catlike eyes, blazing with anger. "I am your queen, not your servant," she hissed, her voice dropping an octave. "Treat me as such."

Max immediately dropped her arm and stepped back. "Where are you going?"

"To speak with Kyle," she replied dryly as she turned and crossed over to the only car available to her, Max's Jeep.

Max briefly stared at her as she got into his Jeep. "Tess, wait." Max stated as he jogged up to the Jeep.

"Thanks for the lift," she smiled as she used her powers to start the engine and drove off before Max could stop her.

He stood on the front lawn, staring in the direction that she went off too, not even noticing when Liz pulled up. "Max," she called out, getting out of the car and crossing over to him. "Where's Tess?"

Max shook his head and sighed. "She went to speak with Kyle. So, I assume she went to the granolith chamber."

Liz sucked in a quick breath, closing her eyes as she communed with the granolith. "We must stop her," She gasped as she immediately turned and headed for her car.

"Why?" Max questioned, following after her. "It will ease her mind. She just wants to know if Serena is okay-" Liz halted to a stop and turned back to Max, their gazes locking and suddenly he knew that something was wrong. "Liz?"

"Max," She began softly. "We don't know where she is, if she's alive."

Max exhaled sharply, shaking his head as he felt the threat of tears, his heart aching at the thought. "Oh."

"Kyle and I were hoping that you'd remember and we could begin our search for the heir." Liz added quickly as a myriad of emotions continued to cross over Max's face. "They've been searching for her since it was rumored that Ava put her into a pod for safety- but they never found her, and Khivar claims that he has the heir and he has been keeping it more or less as a threat over Ares for years-" her voice trailing off as she glanced at the car. "But, more importantly we have to stop Tess."

"Why?" Max questioned as he tried to process all the information. "Perhaps Kyle has more information-"

"No," Liz interrupted, shaking her head. "You don't understand. The granolith is ready for transportation," she began as they climbed into her car. "If she touches it in attempt to contact Kyle she will be transported to Antar- and we'll have to wait another 48 hours for it to charge back up for you and Isabel to return. You must be there together."

~

"Ares seems to be in better spirits," Kyle commented as they walked from the healing chambers to the palace.

"Yeah," Michael grunted as he froze in his tracks and turned sharply to the left.

"What is it?" Kyle questioned, noticing his swift change in emotions. "Michael?"

He shook his head and turned his gaze toward Kyle. "It's nothing."

"Nothing?" Kyle quipped. "It was certainly something. You're practically in attack mode."

"I just thought I saw someone I knew," Michael shrugged as he started walking forward again.

"Who?" He asked as he glanced around the common area.

Michael sighed. "I don't even know if it was him," he grumbled as he looked back to where he thought he saw him. "The last time I saw him he was maybe eight years old, if that."

"So, he'd be a little older then Ares now," Kyle remarked. "You wouldn't necessarily remember what he looked like, but he'd feel familiar to you."

"Yeah," he nodded. "He did, but I can't think of why he'd be in the village now."

"Who?" Kyle questioned once more. "Why would it matter?"

"He's the enemy," Michael growled. "Khivar's cousin, Nikko."

Kyle paused, staring off into the distance, letting his mind absorb the emotions around him. "I don't feel anyone that wishes us harm." Kyle commented as he glanced back at Michael. "Perhaps it wasn't him after all."

"Perhaps," he nodded as they started walking to the palace.

They continued to walk in silence when Kyle felt a surge from the granolith and he stopped in his tracks. "Tess," he gasped as he suddenly heard her in his mind.

"Tess?" Michael repeated, turning to him with concern evident in his eyes. "What is it?"

"She's here." Kyle replied cryptically as he instantly teleported to the granolith chamber. "Tess? He called out as he entered and he couldn't help but smile as she turned to him, her eyes lighting up as she saw him.

"Kyle!" She gasped as she threw herself at him and he wrapped his arms around her, lifting her up into the air. "Oh, I've missed you." She exhaled as they kissed.

Kyle chuckled, drawing out their kiss. "I've missed you too," he grinned as he pulled away slightly. "I didn't think you were coming yet- the others," he began as he realized that she was the only one to return. "Where are the others?"

"Oh," she gasped. "I was trying to reach you- I didn't want to wait and the next thing I knew I was here."

"Why would you need to reach me?" Kyle questioned as he ran his hands through her hair and studied her. "I thought everything was okay-"

"It was never 'okay'," she grumbled as she pulled away. "You left me Kyle! It's been so hard- Michael was gone and Ares was missing- and now Serena", she sniffed. "Please tell me she's okay."

"I'm sorry, baby," Kyle whispered as she shook her head, tears falling from her eyes. "We've not found her."

"No." She groaned as he wrapped his arms around her and held her close.

"Michael and I were about to go search for her now that Ares is safe," he whispered, kissing her brow.

"I want to go too," she hiccupped as she attempted to wipe her tears away. "I have to-"

Kyle suddenly chuckled. "Of course," he smiled, leaning in and kissing her.

She sighed against his lips, "I love you."

"I love you," he whispered. "Even if you screwed everything up by coming early."

"Sorry?" Tess offered as she playfully nipped at his lips. "Will it make that much of a difference in the grand scheme of things? What can happen?"

"I don't know," he sighed, unable to stay mad at her as she smiled up at him. "Come on, let's go find that daughter of yours."

tbc

[Icalynn]

Thanks, Flamehair, Rowedog, and Fehrbaby for the feedback, it truly makes my day!!

And since my muse is happy and talking to me, you'll get more too!

Enjoy!!

~59~

Michael paced back and forth in his chambers, his mind racing at Kyle's cryptic announcement and quick disappearance. "Damn powers of his-"

"Are you talking bad about me, again?" He heard Kyle chuckle and he turned around to see him leaning against the wall with Tess in his arms.

"Tess," Michael gasped as Kyle let go of Tess and she quickly crossed over to him.

"Hey, there little brother," she teased lightly as they hugged. "Missed you."

"Hey," He grinned as they parted. "What are you doing here? I thought you weren't coming until later-"

"Slight change of plans," Tess sighed, shooting a glare at Kyle. "Apparently I screwed up, but I didn't know. I was just worried about Serena."

"Ah," Michael nodded, smiling at her. "You've been fully integrated, you remember."

"Yeah," she smiled. "It's weird. It's like I have two full sets of memories- and oh, Serena." Tess gasped, turning back to Kyle. "Can we go get her now?"

Michael bristled. "Tess, we may not be able too."

"Why not?" Kyle questioned, suddenly confused as Tess stared at him in horror.

"The area was destroyed a few years back," he explained. "I was just speaking to Ares of our father's estate."

Tess visibly paled. "The cove?" She managed to question as she trembled slightly and Kyle was instantly at her side, wrapping his arms around her, giving her the support she needed.

"Yes," Michael sighed heavily. "I fear the worst."

"No," she gasped, shaking her head. "I don't believe it," she groaned as she turned to face Kyle. "Please take me there- I need to see."

"I don't know where it is-" Kyle replied as he glanced at Michael, knowing that Tess wouldn't be able to show him in the state she was.

Michael nodded and he instantly reached to him, showing Kyle where it was as he did earlier for the mission. "I don't know if it exists the same way as I remember."

"I just need the general area," he replied as Tess stared up at him in hope.

"Do you think you can find it?" She whispered, tears pooling in her eyes once more.

Kyle nodded and Tess sighed with relief. He prepared to teleport, grabbing onto Michael's arm at the last minute and teleported them to their father's estate.

Michael gasped in shock, staring at Kyle with awe as they fully gained their bearings. "I didn't know you could do that!"

"Neither did I," Kyle replied as he glanced at the two, suddenly worried that he screwed it up. "The question is, do you feel okay?"

"Yeah," Tess and Michael replied at the same time as they both turned away from Kyle and froze as they took in the rubble that used to be their childhood home. "It's all gone," she whispered sadly.

Michael cursed under his breath and started to walk toward the crumbled debris, "I didn't want to believe Ares."

"What is the cove you were speaking of?" Kyle asked as he wrapped his arm around Tess, offering her his support.

"It was a hidden cove that we used to play in as children," Michael explained. "It's out back."

Tess nodded. "It's a little bit of a walk," she added as she leaned back against Kyle. "But, it's not too far."

"Lead the way," Kyle whispered as he kissed Tess' brow.

"It's this way," Michael began as he waved them over and they started the small trek to the hidden cove.

Tess stared at what used to be the entrance to a small cave. "It's caved in," she remarked as she went closer to investigate and then glanced back at Michael. "You think you could blow it in?" She questioned hopefully.

He glanced down at his hands. "I can try," Michael offered as he aimed his hand toward the mound of dirt and clay that covered the entrance they once knew.

The ground rumbled as it seemingly opened up, the dirt and clay dissolving into nothing. He waved his hand once more and the small entrance grew bigger.

"Perfect," Tess grinned as she leaned up and kissed Michael's cheek, before darting into the cove.

Kyle and Michael quickly followed after her, stopping in their tracks as they noticed a large pool of red water. "I don't remember that," Michael commented as he turned to Tess.

"It must have opened a spring of some sort," she sighed. "There used to be a little stream of water, but this, this is huge."

"Where was the pod?" Kyle questioned and Tess pointed into the darkness, beyond the pool of water. "Oh."

Without another word, Tess stripped down to her bra and panties and dove into the water. "Tess!" Michael called out as she disappeared under the surface.

Kyle stepped forward and began to undress, diving in after her. Michael shrugged and followed their lead.

"Yuck," Tess gasped as she came up for air, the water shifting around her. "I forgot how thick this was." She commented as she glanced at Kyle who was wide eyed and she couldn't help but laugh at his expression.

"It feels like warm Jello or something," Kyle groaned as he attempted to wade in the thicker fluid.

"Yeah," Tess nodded as she started to swim to the dirt bank on the other side.

"Remind me why I'm following you?" Michael growled as he swam closer to them.

"Cause you love your sister," she teased lightly as she attempted to splash him.

"Ha. Ha." He deadpanned as they all made their way to the other side and climbed out.

"Weird," Kyle commented, the jello-like water instantly dissolving as it hit the air.

Tess giggled, leaning up to kiss him, before darting into the darkness. She held up her hand, lighting the torches that lined the intricate maze ahead of them. "Come on," she beckoned with a wave of her hand.

"Yes, your majesty." Kyle chuckled as they quickly followed after her.

"Here," she smiled as she dropped to her knees and reached into a small crevice. She gasped, instantly pulling her hand back. "It's not there."

"Where is it?" Michael questioned as they glanced around the immediate area.

"Um, guys," Kyle began as he pointed to what appeared to be a buried pod.

"Oh, no!" Tess gasped as she started to dig at the dirt, tears burning her eyes as she felt the rough edges. "No, no, no." She whimpered as her body began to shake and Kyle quickly wrapped his arms around her and pulled her away.

"Michael," he whispered as he glanced at him and then at the pod.

Michael nodded and he continued to dig around the pod. "I'm sorry," he groaned after a few minutes when the pod was completely unburied, the broken seal and empty contents noticeable.

Tess buried her head into Kyle's chest, sobbing against him as the loss of her daughter overwhelmed her. "No." She gasped, wiping angrily at her tears. "She's not gone-"

"Tess," Kyle soothed as she pushed him away, her eyes flashing dangerously.

"She's alive," she whispered harshly as she turned sharply on her heels and walked away.

Michael and Kyle exchanged a weary glance. Kyle reached out, touching the pod briefly with his fingertips, hoping for a flash, something to show that Tess' statement was correct. But, he didn't feel anything.

Michael sighed, running his hand over his hair. "Do you think it could be possible?" He whispered. "What if she's wandering out there-"

"Then we'll find her," Kyle vowed. "And for Tess' well being, I hope we find her safe and sound."

tbc

[thetvgeneral]

what a great story!! just found this and have been captivated! can't wait to see what happens next. i think i know where serena is...can't wait to see if i'm right. come back soon. and thanks for writing!